David Blaine ‘Real or Magic’ LIVE in Manila, September 12

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Ovation Productions presents David Blaine ‘Real or Magic’ LIVE in Manila, September 12, 2014, 8:00pm at Smart Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City.

One of the world's best magicians of all time. He is best known for his high-profile feats of endurance, and has made his name as a performer of street and close-up magic. Now he's coming to Manila for one-night-only show as part of his Asia Tour on September 2014.

Is he for real? Or is he a con job? Filipinos can decide for themselves when the world’s most intriguing magician hits Manila for a one-night-only live show.Magician David Blaine, who has been wowing and spooking audiences worldwide with his trailblazing brand of magic for almost two decades, is set to cast a spell on Philippine audiences in a 90-minute live show on September 12 at the Araneta Coliseum, according to promoter Renen de Guia of Ovation Productions.

This is not an entirely new venture into the world of magic by Ovation Productions, having promoted another very popular magician also by the name of David in Manila in 1989, David Copperfield!

Dubbed Real or Magic, Blaine’s first ever show in the Philippines will feature a slew of tricks that have blown the minds of anyone who has ever seen videos of his ‘street magic’ performances. The 41-year-old magician’s Manila stopover is part of his first Asian tour.

The show’s title references Blaine’s TV special last year in which he performed inexplicable tricks to the stupefaction of celebrities such as Will Smith, Kanye West, Ricky Gervais, Katy Perry, and a very freaked-out Harrison Ford — who jokingly told Blaine to “Get the f*** out of my house.”

Born in New York to Puerto Rican-Italian and Russian parents, Blaine became an overnight success at 24 when he debuted his Street Magic in 1997. The show, in which he performed minimal yet enigmatic tricks for impromptu audiences on the street, was a success.

Eschewing the glitzy Vegas-style showmanship of magicians like David Copperfield, Blaine’s less-is-more approach, lazy Brooklyn drawl and ultra-cool manner — not to mention his dark, brooding looks — won him a great league of fans across the world who just can’t seem to believe what they see.

Later, Blaine expanded his magical repertoire by featuring himself in a series of spectacularly staged death-defying endurance performances, some of which were inspired by his idol Harry Houdini. These endurance performances have seen Blaine: sealed in a coffin-like box at the bottom of a three-ton tank of water for a week; encased in ice for 63 hours; standing unsecured on top of a 30m high narrow pillar for 53 hours; and dangled in a plastic cube above the Thames for 44 days with only water to sustain him. He even managed to break a Guinness World Record in 2008 live on The Oprah Winfrey Show when he held his breath underwater for 17 minutes and 44 seconds — the record has since been broken. Meanwhile, the last spectacle saw him being zapped by a million volts of electricity produced by eight Tesla coil towers for 72 hours. 

While the magician who’s been called our generation’s greatest probably won’t replicate such endurance tests for his live show, audiences can be assured that they’ll be feted to other head-scratching Blaine specialities — from how-did-he-do-that card tricks to pushing needles through his arm to twisting off a chicken’s head and putting it back on. But is it magic? Is it real? You decide.

David Blaine ‘Real or Magic’ LIVE in Manila, September 12, 2014 at the Araneta Coliseum is presented by Ovation Productions in cooperation with AXN, Philippine Star, Manila Bulletin, BusinessWorld, ABSCBN, MYX ,Philstar.com, Inquirer.net, Manila Concert Scene, Philippine Concerts, WhenInManila.com, Rappler.com, SoundCheckManila, Pep.ph, 105.1 Crossover, 96.3 EasyRock, Retro 105.9, Monster Radio 96.3, and Mellow 947. 

 Available at Ticketnet outlets or online www.ticketnet.com.ph or call 911-5555.

TICKET PRICES(inclusive of Ticketnet service charges)

VIP - P6,865 (Reserved Seating)

PATRON - P5,810 (Reserved Seating)

BOX PREMIUM - P4,755 (Reserved Seating)

BOX REGULAR - P3,700 (Reserved Seating)

UPPER BOX - P2,115 (Free Seating)

GENERAL ADMISSION - P1,060 (Free Seating)

Lazada Ph gets Reader's Digest Gold

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Lazada, recently received the Gold standard seal of approval from the renowned international publication Reader's Digest as one of the most trusted brands in the Philippines, ranking alongside with global luminaries such as Apple, McDonald's, and Shell as well as Philippine heavyweights such as ABS-CBN, Philippine Airlines, and Globe Telecom.

Sheron White, Group Advertising Director of Readers Digest Asia Pacific handing the Most Trusted Brand Plaque to Tristan De Belloy, Head of Online Marketing of Lazada Philippines. 

Every year, the Reader's Digest holds polls and gather insights from consumers from all walks of life, in light of finding out which brands gained the trust and confidence of the consumers. Segmenting the awards per category such as Consumer Electronics, Finance, Household Products, Personal Products, Food and Beverage, Health and Personal Care, Services, Motoring, and Telecommunications - Reader's Digest rounds up all the votes from the consumers and names those brands which are the most trusted for the year.

Lazada, the country’s largest online shopping mall, bagging the Gold standard seal on Online Shopping under the Services Category. 

Lazada Philippines,  recognizes this as a validation from its millions of shoppers that what the company has put up within the past two years of establishment in the Philippines has made significant impact on the consumers making online shopping effortless and risk-free for all.

True to its brand DNA of providing effortless and risk-free shopping experience, Lazada also commits itself to furthering this shopping experience with a strong customer service and logistics support - providing human interaction between the company and its shoppers more than the virtual interaction that they get from shopping at Lazada online.

Lazada Philippines Co-Founder and CEO Inanc Balci explained on how online shopping with Lazada can be enviably effortless and risk-free for many Filipinos.

“While more Filipinos always refer to the online shopping experience the first-economy countries as a template for global online shopping, Lazada pulls all the stops at this. Online shopping in the first-economy countries are very much credit card-based. Lazada clearly understands that the Philippines has low credit card penetration rate and most transactions are still done on cash basis,” said Balci. 

Balci adds, “Lazada offers cash-on-delivery payment mode—a system which works perfectly and sits as one of the main integers of the Lazada brand DNA. There's no need for the shoppers to risk going out wiring the money in the bank account of the seller nor scheduling meet-ups outside and exchange cash for the products.” 

“While shopping is never an issue for consumers within the metro cities such as Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao, Lazada expands its reach and breaks geographical boundaries by having its own dedicated logistics company—the Lazada Express which caters to Metro Manila deliveries as well as teaming up with the leading logistics provider in the Philippines to cover for outside Metro Manila deliveries. Thus making sure that its shoppers get their purchases whenever and wherever they are,” said Balci.

Parts and parcel of Lazada’s success amongst the hearts and minds of its consumers is that it empowers its consumers with a wide array of 40,000 SKUs to choose from, the flexibility it provides with its range of payment mode, and the way it listens and interacts with its shoppers making sure that in every step of the way Lazada listens and attends to the needs of its valued customers. 

“Lazada shoppers can be at the comfort of their homes or workplace and the items will be delivered on their doorstep wherever in the Philippines they are, free of charge. They are also empowered to have the option to pay the purchases in cash upon delivery; and if within 30 days the purchases are not to their expectations - and given that its still in their mint condition, Lazada covers the return shipping for free and the shopper will have their money back,” Balci explained.

Being one of the trusted brands in the Philippines, Lazada recognizes this not just an accolade to its past feats but as a stimulus to further innovate and improve itself to continue providing effortless and risk-free shopping experience to its consumers.

Hair Wellness for kids, lice infestation is rampant among Filipino students

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Over 9 million Filipino school children were found to have head lice in year 2000. At the time, that represented 84 percent of the population of public school children in Metro Manila and some provinces.

This was found by a study conducted by the Department of Education and the University of the Philippines. It’s such a big problem that head lice are considered the second biggest health concern among students, 7 to 12 years of age, after tooth decay.

In year 2014, with a bigger population of school children, the likelihood of spreading lice infestation among students is greater. And since our tropical climate worsens the itch we feel in our scalps, more students find themselves scratching their heads, and possibly transferring lice and nits or lice eggs (kuto and lisa) from their fingernails to their friends’, playmates’ and classmates’ hair and personal belongings including combs and hair accessories, and even school, PE, and sports uniforms, as well as jackets and sweaters. Students who go to sleepovers may catch lice from shared pillows and linen. 

School is one place where students have close physical contact for an extended period of time. This means more opportunities to catch lice from one another. School children with lice are usually exposed to social stigma and shame—and you don’t want your child to go through that.

There are several steps that a parent can take to prevent, control, and eliminate lice infestation. These include:

                        

Teaching kids proper hygiene habits

These habits include regular washing of hair with shampoo and conditioner. Kids should also be taught to avoid, as much as possible, borrowing personal items of their friends and classmates.

Signs and symptoms

Teach your kids that an itchy scalp could be a sign that they have a lice infestation and that they should let you know about it immediately. Other symptoms include a tickling feeling on the hair and scalp, which could be the lice moving around; irritability and difficulty sleeping; red bumps on the scalp, neck, or shoulders; sores that develop due to repeated scratching of the scalp; and small white objects on the hair that are difficult to brush away—they need to be removed by a fine-toothed comb or with fingers—are likely nits.

Keeping clothes and linen lice-free

Lice and nits need just the right temperature—the same temperature as a human scalp—in order to survive. Washing clothes, blankets and other bed linen in hot water will kill lice and nits that are left on them. Make doubly sure by setting the dryer on high heat. In the case of fabrics that are too sensitive for regular washing, dry cleaning is an option that will also kill lice and nits. Personal items that cannot be washed may be sealed inside plastic bags for two weeks—lice and nits do not survive long away from the scalp and they will die within this period. 

Keeping the house clean

Regular vacuuming and cleaning in the house, especially of the floor and furniture that has come in contact with a lice-infested person, will help reduce the chances of lice infestation in the house. 

Choose an effective and safe head lice treatment shampoo

LiceAliz is proven safe and effective when it comes to eliminating head lice in children and adults. It kills lice using a natural ingredient made from chrysanthemum flowers called pyrethrin. It’s so easy and convenient to use: just apply, lather, and rinse like regular shampoo. Leave on hair for about 10 minutes before rinsing. Use it twice a week for two weeks. After that, use it once a week to prevent head lice from coming back. Follow the label instructions for best results. 

There’s even a LiceAliz variant with conditioner for softer, smoother, healthier hair. Another variant has menthol for a cool, refreshing feeling on the scalp. LiceAliz is safe to use on children as young as two years old. One other advantage of LiceAliz over other brands is its price, which is more than 50 percent, lower compared to others. LiceAliz is readily available at drugstores and department stores nationwide.

Healthway Medical reaches out to the Global Pinoy through I-Remit

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Healthway Medical makes partnership and signs contract with I-Remit. Healthway Medical, the country’s most-preferred and trusted mall-based clinic expands its reach by catering to global markets through its partnership with I-Remit, the largest Filipino-owned non-bank remittance service provider.

The venture allows Healthway Medical to offer its premium healthcare services to more than 2.2 million Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and other Filipinos abroad through I-Remit’s iShop. 

Considered a “One-Stop Shop Delivery Service”, iShop accepts orders and coordinates the delivery of Pinoy gifts and pasalubong from Filipinos abroad to their respective beneficiaries and loved ones back home.

Healthway Medical signs contract with I-Remit. In photo are (L-R): Luzviminda Nietes, Healthway Medical Manager for New Business; Alejandro Pepino, I-Remit Global Sales and Marketing Vice President; Harris Jacildo, I-Remit President and CEO; Carmie de Leon, Healthway Medical Vice President for Sales and Marketing; Joven Alcala, Healthway Medical Marketing Manager; Jennifer Saclolo, Healthway Medical Alternative Distribution Channel Head; and Naome Lucernas, Healthway Medical ADC Officer. 

“By making our healthcare services available online, OFWs and foreigners can take care of themselves and their families without having to worry about being far away from home,” says Carmie de Leon, Healthway Medical Vice President for Sales and Marketing.

Healthway Medical will now be offering Health Screening services as well as its premium executive checkup package, HealthCheQ International, to over 1,400 remittance outlets located in 26 countries and territories covered by I-Remit. 

I-Remit Vice President for Global Sales and Marketing Alejandro Pepino, shared that “I-Remit’s presence in twenty-six countries across the world allows us to reward clients with value added service, and that’s where Healthway Medical fits into the picture.”

“I think one of the main concerns of an OFW is when they send money to the Philippines, they want to have a sense of security that is actually addressing the needs of the family. Our multiple remittance channels let OFWs make purchases in advance for their loved ones in the Philippines, and Healthway Medical is there to provide much-needed preventive care for their families.”

Healthway Medical’s Health Screenings provide diagnostic procedures that help determine diseases even before the onset of observable symptoms. This enables Healthway Medical’s healthcare professionals to apply preventive health procedures and easily treat conditions before they get worse. Among the health care packages offered are basic medical exams for male and female, diabetes screening, and dental services such as teeth whitening.

HealthCheQ International, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive medical package that includes laboratory, diagnostic services, imaging studies, and special examinations. Available in transferrable coupons, HealthCheQ International is designed to provide medical and dental services for the entire family. The package also allows patients to choose among tests and procedures that best suit their needs, including cosmetic services such as warts removal and other facial-care procedures.

On top of premium healthcare, Healthway Medical extends its exclusive service with a complete wellness experience by offering an overnight stay at any of Healthway Medical’s partner hotels or resorts for a relaxing getaway.

For more information, visit Healthway Medical clinics at Alabang Town Center, Festival Supermall, Greenbelt 5, Market! Market!, Robinsons Place Manila, Shangri-La Plaza, and SM North Edsa-The Block. Call the Customer Care Hotline (02)751-4929 or visit www.healthway.com.ph. Like Healthway Medical on Facebook.

Challenge Ph Triathlon launches international race 'Challenge CamSur' with Yellow Cab Pizza

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Challenge Philippines Triathlon launches new international race, Challenge CamSur and Yellow Cab Pizza takes title sponsorship.

Challenge Philippines is expanding its brand footprint with the announcement of a new race, Challenge CamSur set on June 14, 2015.

Earlier this year, the Challenge Philippines showcased over 729 athletes from 38 countries. Triathletes from different walks of life, including two crown princes of Bahrain, competed in the inaugural race.

Aussie Michael Murphy takes the challenge of the long & tough bike course of Challenge Philippines Bataan.

Twenty-five of the world’s fastest pro triathletes participated in the race competing for two million pesos, the largest prize purse in Asia. Among them are Australia’s Michael Murphy and other current world champions. 

German pro triathlete Till Schramm who finished eighth place hammers the challenging course of the Seven Hills of Bataan.

The race’s broadcast coverage reached over 82 counties worldwide showcasing Philippines as the most desired lifestyle and sports destination.

Second place Michael Murphy talks to champion Matt Burton who finished the race with a recorded time of four hours, 26 minutes, and 53 seconds in pursuit of his 1st place share of the US$ 50, 000 Pro prize purse.  

Challenge Family, owner of the global triathlon series of long and half distance races, is known worldwide for giving the most iconic and beautiful race locations. This is exemplified with the announcement of the new Challenge CamSur.

“We are honored to welcome Challenge CamSur as part of the Challenge Philippine’s Family of races. Camsur has a rich tradition and legacy in the sport of Philippine triathlons. With the passion and warmth always evident from the people of Camarines Sur supporting our athletes, it’s just amazing,” said David Voth, CEO of Leverage Sports Asia and chairman of Challenge Philippines Race.

"In celebration of a new Challenge race in CamSur and a new title sponsorship from Yellow Cab Pizza, plus it’s the 30th Anniversary of the birthplace of Challenge Family Triathlons in Roth, Germany, we will roll back Challenge Philippine's race entry prices to US$190," Voth said.

Aside from giving triathletes their ultimate racing experience, the Yellow Cab Challenge Philippines will help boost the country’s tourism, generating millions of dollars in revenue.

Famous for choosing spectacular and iconic racing locations, the global triathlon event will have its second leg in the country in two locations next year whose official partner is leading pizza chain, Yellow Cab.

"The 2014 Challenge Philippines race course in Bataan was proclaimed by many around the world as being the ‘World's Toughest Course.’ Our goal for Challenge Camsur is to design and deliver one of the fastest courses in Asia," Voth said. 

“We in the province of CamSur are proud to be part of the Challenge Family Global Series and we are looking forward to host the CamSur Challenge triathlon next year as a banner event of Challenge Philippines,” CamSur Gov. Miguel Luis Villafuerte said.

CamSur Gov. Miguel Luis Villafuerte

“Being the host of the first major international triathlon event sanctioned by the World Triathlon Corporation in the country in 2009, and this was for three consecutive years until 2011, our contribution to the growth of triathlon in the Philippines is substantive. This has established for us a solid international reputation in terms of hosting world-class triathlon events.” 

Villafuerte pointed out that Camsur holds a unique draw when it comes to hosting such international sporting events.

“There is strong government support and we are able to offer a complete and integrated package. To add to all these is the enthusiasm and involvement of the local residents who go out as early as 4 a.m. and line the race routes to cheer for the competitors,” Villfuerte said.

Anna Stroh, event director of Challenge Philippines and Challenge CamSur said: "Giving our athletes an opportunity to compete at highest levels, in a well-organized, safe, and beautiful destinations, is our primary goal.” 

Challenge Philippines Triathlon in Subic Bay and Bataan and Challenge CamSur will be held on Feb. 21 and June 14, respectively.

The new title sponsorship with Yellow Cab Co. for Challenge Philippines and Challenge Camsur, with an initial term of 3 years, will begin immediately. The famous pizza chain has been a long-time supporter of triathlon by supporting its own team, Team Yellow Cab, and many sport development programs, including its support of Challenge Philippines in 2014 as an official partner. 

"We could not ask for a better partner. Yellow Cab is symbolic of quality, passion, and a positive lifestyle that makes it a perfect fit for the Challenge brand,” Voth said.

“Being part of the Challenge Family provides an ideal platform to continue our objectives established over a decade ago, but with a wider reach. I am very delighted to have Yellow Cab on board as a Title Sponsor of the Challenge Brand in Philippines. Having supported Triathlon since 2008, having Yellow Cab as part of the Family is a wonderful match”, Challenge Director Jumbo Tayag said.

 Roy Quejada, chief operating officer of Yellow Cab Co.

“The Challenge Philippines Brand and Yellow Cab share a certain status in the market. Only a few can be a triathlete, but a lot of people are aspiring to be one. Similar to Yellow Cab, customers sees the brand as aspirational, a brand that you want to be associated with,” said Roy Quejada, chief operating officer of Yellow Cab Co.

After registration, all athletes will get the chance to win a year-round season pass to select Challenge Family races including a coveted race kit to Challenge Roth in 2015. 

The promotion will run for a limited time only. Athletes may register and join through http://bit.ly/30YearsOfRoth.

For more details visit the Challenge Philippines website at http://challengephilippines.com.ph.

Get social with the Challenge Philippines Family and get instant access to live coverage of all Challenge Family races on the go.