“Niyebe” at FEU Theater Guild this February 2025

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The Far Eastern University Theater Guild (FTG) stages another Gabriel Garcia-Marquez short story as an experimental play for the opening of its 91st season. This groundbreaking production, featuring music and musical direction by Vince Lim, assisted by Jesus Singh III (IAS ‘17) for additional guidance and vocal coaching, choreography by Carlon Matobato, and choreography, adaptation, lyrics, and direction by Dudz Teraña, is set to captivate audiences from February 12 to March 27, 2024.

Against the backdrop of Europe's harsh winter, Niyebe tells the tragic story of newlyweds Billy Sanchez and Nena Deconte, whose honeymoon turns into a nightmare. A small scrape on Nena's finger leads to death! Stranded in a foreign land, Billy grapples with solitude, grief, and despair, forced to confront profound questions about existence, purpose, and identity in the aftermath of his wife’s sudden death. All this while, he battles the relentless bureaucracy that ultimately denies him the chance to see his wife one last time. The play features a dynamic cast with Billy Sanchez played by RB Pascua (IAS ‘25) and Dave Bambang (IARFA ‘29), Nena Deconte by Kesiah Eunice Aritao (IAS ‘25) and Brigitta Claire Marilla (IAS ‘25), and the Narrator by Aaron Bayani (FIT ‘25). The production will also showcase a dynamic ensemble cast, whose collective talent and synergy will enhance the depth and vibrancy of the musical's narrative and performances.

Director and writer Dudz Teraña masterfully adapts García Márquez's story into a compelling theatrical experience that fuses music, movement, and rich storytelling. "Niyebe isn’t just a love story; it’s a reflection of how the fragility of happiness and loss can spiral into a deep existential crisis," says Teraña. "Reimagined as an experimental play, it employs a unique narrative style while delving into societal issues such as class disparity, which inspired García Márquez’s original work. Much like his other works, it speaks on existentialism, the questioning of one’s purpose after a sudden loss, and the wanting of escapism triggered by this loss."

The show's brilliance lies not only in its powerful performances but also in the dedicated work of its creative and production team. From the seamless execution by Stage Manager Maria Ysabel Delos Reyes (IAS ‘27) to the logistical coordination of Production Manager Janah Gervacio (IHSN ‘26), and House Manager Hans Fernandez, every aspect of the show is meticulously managed. The production’s aesthetic vision is brought to life by Production Design Head Kirstan Orbegoso (IAS ‘28) and Costume Designer Margarita Barrameda (IAS ‘26), and the technical team led by Technical Head Kristian Samson (IAS ‘26), with lighting design by Arvin Javier (IAS ‘28), sound by Gab Lazaro (FIT ‘27), and video projections by Shawn Tarala (IAS ‘27). Offstage, the show is supported by Marketing Relations Head Cassandra Herilla (IAS ‘27), Creative Head Julia Nicole Ramas (FIT ‘27), Multimedia Heads Davewyn Macawile (IAS ‘25) and Millicent Roxas (IAS ‘25), Media Relations Head Heleina Li (IAS ‘27), Collaborative Relations Head Irish Oliveros (IAS ‘28), and Social Media Manager Renz Dotillos (IAS ‘26), ensuring that Niyebe resonates with audiences both on and off the stage.

With a unique blend of captivating performances, evocative music, and innovative design, Niyebe is more than just a musical—it’s a deeply moving exploration of love and loss. It will run at the FEU Center for the Arts Studio on the following dates:

●        February: 12-13, 19-22, 26-28

●        March: 1, 5-8, 12-15, 19-22, 26-27

 Prices are 100 PHP for the FEU Community, 300 PHP for student Guests, 500 PHP for Regulars, and 700 PHP for VIPs. For reservations and inquiries, please contact the FTG through their social media pages:

Facebook: Far Eastern University Theater Guild

Instagram & Tiktok: @feutheaterguildofficial

Twitter: @ftg1934

Website: https://feutheaterguild.com

The Big Dome opens 2025 with sold-out shows

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The Smart Araneta Coliseum is kicking off 2025 with a bang, hosting a stellar lineup of concerts that have attracted music lovers from all over. With all shows selling out—and most securing multiple nights—the Big Dome is proving once again why Pinoys are the greatest lovers of live performances!

From homegrown talents to global icons, here’s a look at the must-see performances that have packed the Big Dome to capacity.

TJ Monterde makes history with three sold-out nights

Singer-songwriter TJ Monterde is carving his name in the history books as the first local male artist to sell out a three-night concert at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Sarili Nating Mundo at the Big Dome will take place from February 1 to 3, marking his first major arena show. Monterde’s heartfelt ballads and signature acoustic sound have won over a loyal fan base, and the overwhelming demand for his concert cements his place as one of OPM’s most beloved voices.

Cup of Joe’s ‘Silakbo’ ignites fans for two sold-out nights

Following their steady rise in the OPM scene, Cup of Joe is taking things to the next level with Silakbo: Featuring Cup of Joe on February 8 and 9. The band’s first-ever arena concert has already sold out, proving the immense following they’ve built with their distinct blend of indie, pop, and rock. Their signature anthems, which resonate deeply with today’s generation, have clearly struck a chord with their fans—enough to fill the Big Dome twice over.

The Script brings ‘Satellites’ Tour to a sold-out Manila crowd

Irish pop-rock band The Script is no stranger to sold-out shows in the Philippines, and their Satellites World Tour is no exception. Their back-to-back concerts on February 11 and 12 are completely booked, with Filipino fans eager to experience the band’s anthemic hits and emotionally charged performances live once again.

The Corrs: Manila’s love affair with the Irish icons continues

Filipinos’ enduring love for The Corrs is on full display as the Irish siblings return to Manila for From Manila With Love on February 15 and 16. The group’s two-night affair at the Big Dome sold out in record time, proving that their blend of Celtic folk and pop remains as timeless as ever. For many, it’s a nostalgic trip back to the golden era of ‘90s music—one that Pinoy fans clearly don’t want to miss.

DAY6 caps off February with a sold-out one-night show

Korean rock band DAY6 is closing out February in style with their Forever Young World Tour on February 22. As expected, MyDays snapped up tickets instantly, making this highly anticipated comeback a sold-out success. Known for their emotionally charged lyrics and genre-defying sound, DAY6’s return to the Manila stage is set to be an unforgettable night for their devoted fans.

With these record-breaking, sold-out performances, the Smart Araneta Coliseum is proving yet again that it’s the home of the biggest and most sought-after concerts in the country. "The overwhelming response to these concerts reaffirms the Big Dome's status as the ultimate stage for unforgettable performances. 2025 is just beginning, and we can't wait to bring even more world-class entertainment to Filipino fans," Ms. Irene L. Jose, Uniprom, Inc. Chief Operating Officer concluded.

For more information about Smart Araneta Coliseum and all upcoming events at the Big Dome, please visit https://smartaranetacoliseum.com/. You may also like and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), and TikTok.

Kenvue Philippines Collaborates with Department of Health to Elevate Oral Health Awareness in the Philippines

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Kenvue, a global leader in health and wellness products, is collaborating with the Department of Health (DOH) supported by American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) to champion the importance of comprehensive oral care and reduce the alarming prevalence of oral health issues in the country. Together, they aim to create healthier, brighter smiles for all Filipinos.

The American Chamber of Commerce and Kenvue Philippines award Certificates and Tokens of Appreciation to the Oral Care Experts Panel after the discussion and audience Q&A.

From Left to Right: Winston Elliot Senior Manager for Regulatory Affairs, Grace Mendoza Head of Healthcare Professional Marketing, Aldellyn Po Self-Care and Oral Franchise Lead, Penn Policarpio Managing Director of Kenvue Philippines and Indonesia, Dr.Jose B. Salazar​ Board of Trustee of the Philippine Pediatric Society (PPS), Director of the PPS Council on Community Services and Child Advocacy ; Dr. Noel Vallesteros, ​Chief, Oral Health & Nutrition Care Division (OHNCD)​, Disease Prevention & Control Bureau​, Department of Health​; Dr. Limuel Anthony B. Abrogena​, Executive Secretary of the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians (PAFP), Former Chairperson of the PAFP Committee on Basic Medical Education and Committee on Informatics and Publicity​, Dr. Arlene dela Cruz Medina, President Elect​, Philippine Pediatric Dental Society​; Dr. Gay Raralio, ​President​, Philippine Pediatric Dental Society​; ; Jose Angelo G. Militante, ​Past President Philippine Dental Association and Philippine College of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons​; Elaine Pallasigui,​Healthcare Professional Senior Manager for Metro Asia, Dianne Alejo Associate Medical Affairs Manager, Junho Kim, Marketing Director

The current state of oral health in the Philippines remains a pressing public health concern. According to the 2018 National Survey on Oral Health (NSOH), 80 million Filipinos suffer from tooth decay, a staggering number that places the country among the highest globally for dental caries, as revealed in a 2019 WHO study by Petersen. Additionally, 54 million Filipinos are affected by gum problems, a leading cause of tooth loss, with the average 70-year-old having only seven teeth remaining (Cruz et al., 2019).

Several factors contribute to the nation’s oral health challenges:

• Accessibility: With a low dentist-to-population ratio and 60% of dentists concentrated in Manila, many areas lack access to adequate dental care.
• Limited Insurance: The Philippines is predominantly a self-pay country, making preventive dental care financially inaccessible for many.
• Excessive Sugar Consumption: The average Filipino consumes over 13 tablespoons of sugar daily, nearly triple the recommended amount (Philippine Statistics Authority).
• Inadequate Oral Health Practice: Proper brushing techniques are not widely practiced and limited awareness of mouthrinse as an important habit to complement brushing and flossing
• Reactive Dental Visits: Alarmingly, 50% of Filipinos visit a dentist only when they experience oral health problems.

To address these challenges, the DOH has launched the Ngiting 70:20 initiative, which aims to ensure Filipinos retain at least 20 teeth by the age of 70. Key components of this program include:

• Educational Campaigns: Initiatives like Ibigay ang Ibig ng Bibig promote fluoride toothpaste use, healthy diets, regular dental visits, and proper oral care routines.
• Dental Home Concept: Making dental services accessible, continuous, and family-centered across all life stages.
• PhilHealth Support: Expanded partial coverage for preventive oral health services.

Kenvue underscores the importance of holistic oral care by emphasizing gargling with mouthwash as a vital habit to complement brushing and flossing. Research shows that brushing alone cleans only 25% of the mouth. However, adherence to proper brushing techniques is low, with most individuals brushing for just 48 seconds instead of the recommended two minutes. Moreover, only 2% to 10% floss effectively, with daily flossing being even rarer, the importance of mouthrinse has limited awareness, therefore contributing to lack of basic health practice.

To bridge this gap, Kenvue promotes the use of essential oils-based mouthwash, which has been proven to significantly enhance oral health outcomes. A 2022 study by Milleman et al., published by the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, found that incorporating a mouthrinse formulated with four essential oils reduced plaque, gingivitis, and gingival bleeding up to five times more effectively than brushing and flossing alone over a 12-week period. Kenvue also initiates a partnership with Operation Smile to raise awareness about cleft lip and palate, and more importantly, to educate cleft patients and their families on the importance of good oral hygiene, which we recognize as essential health for all.

Kenvue and the DOH are committed to empowering healthcare professionals with the tools and knowledge needed to guide their patients towards improved oral care routines. Addressing this challenge means reaching not only dental practitioners but also other health care providers like general practitioners, nurses, pharmacists, midwives, paediatricians, and family medicine practitioners to provide awareness and immediate action. Together, they aim to combat tooth loss and promote healthy smiles across all age groups.

“At Kenvue, we believe that oral health is the key component of overall health. By working alongside DOH and AmCham, we hope to make proper oral care accessible and actionable for every Filipino,” said Penn Policarpio, Managing Director Philippines and Indonesia.

Stay Safe for the Year with CHERRY Security Cameras: Choose from Two Great Models!

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Now that it’s the beginning of February 2025, why not get yourself CHERRY Security Cameras to stay safe for the rest of the year? We have two options for you to choose from, or both!

The CHERRY Smart SB Camera has 2 Motion Detection Modes (Intelligent Auto-Tracking and Smart Human Motion Detection) with a 1080P Full HD video quality and wide viewing angle for maximum security. With an Intelligent Auto-Tracking and 2.4GHz WiFi wireless connection, you can easily monitor your home no matter where you are located. Get yours on sale for PHP 1,100!

The CHERRY Smart SB2 Camera has 2 Motion Detection Modes (Intelligent Auto-Tracking and Smart Human Motion Detection) with a 1080P full HD video quality and wide viewing angle for maximum security. You can effortlessly keep an eye on your house from anywhere with a 2.4GHz WiFi wireless connection and Intelligent Auto-Tracking. Plus, this item has a rotation angle of 355° (pan) and 90° (tilt). Get yours for PHP 1,300!

For more information, visit:

CHERRY Shop: www.cherryshop.com.ph

Shopee: https://bit.ly/CherryPhShopee

Lazada: https://bit.ly/CherryPhLazada

Caltex signs partnership with roadside assistance provider

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Caltex, marketed by Chevron Philippines Inc (CPI), recently partnered with Assist and Assistance Concept Inc. (AACI), a division of MPT Mobility, the innovations arm of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), to provide its members with Caltex Saveplus cards. This partnership offers AACI members with big discounts and the chance to earn Caltex Rewards points, enhancing fuel savings and ensuring a more convenient and smoother journey.

Executives from Caltex and AACI meet in person to formally sign a partnership agreement aimed at offering valuable discounts and enhancing fuel savings for motorists (From left to right: Lyle Sulit, Card Sales Lead of Caltex Philippines, Jaime Zuluaga, Fuels and Lubricants B2B Manager of Caltex Philippines, Ronald Carrillo, President of AACI)

AACI, a leading provider of subscription-based roadside assistance services since 2011, also offers a comprehensive suite of Travel and Medical Assistance services, catering to the diverse needs of its clients across the country.

This partnership aims to directly address one of motorists' most pressing needs: access to affordable, high-quality fuel. By delivering meaningful savings, Caltex and AACI aim to make driving more cost-effective while also improving the overall travel experience. This collaboration aligns with both companies’ missions to provide innovative and customer-centric solutions that elevate the driving experience.

“We chose to partner with Caltex because of the company’s reputation and reliability,” said Ronald Carrillo, President of AACI. “Through this partnership, our members will have access to seamless, reliable and efficient roadside assistance that make their trips more affordable whenever they need it, wherever they are in the Philippines. It’s a win-win solution that aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver tangible benefits to drivers.”

“At Caltex, we always strive to partner with companies that share our mission, ensuring that we deliver the quality products and services our customers deserve. We continually look for ways to assist them in enjoying a hassle-free driving experience wherever they go,” said Jaime Zuluaga, Fuels and Lubricants B2B Manager of Caltex Philippines.

About Chevron

Chevron is one of the world’s leading integrated energy companies. We believe affordable, reliable, and ever-cleaner energy is essential to achieving a more prosperous and sustainable world. Chevron produces crude oil and natural gas; manufactures transportation fuels, lubricants, petrochemicals, and additives; and develops technologies that enhance our business and the industry. We are focused on lowering the carbon intensity in our operations and growing lower carbon businesses along with our traditional business lines. More information about Chevron is available at www.chevron.com.