2015-01-25 ~ Wazzup Pilipinas News and Events

Saturday, January 31, 2015

Pay for Your McDonald's Meals with Hugs and Dance Moves

Wazzup Pilipinas!

McDonald's will be accepting hugs and dance moves as payment. That's the headline at the very popular Mashable website reporting about the upcoming promo of fastfood chain giant McDonald's. We are not really sure which country and which branches will be part of the selected outlets but we are sure hoping they will extend the promo to the Philippines.

This would be fun to watch as people will line up at all McDonald's restaurant and show intimate displays of affections or dance to the beat of their favorite dance music.

I would also try my luck and hoping my performance will pay well enough for a Big Breakfast or their biggest burger coupled with fries and sundaes.

Wouldn't you want to have the opportunity to get free meals just by doing what we Filipinos really love to do.

Most Filipinos will not be too shy to make a fool of themselves especially for freebies.

Below is an excerpt from the Mashable website.

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The long wait will be finally over as PUP Exempli3d Production brings its very first major seminar for the academic year entitled “FUSION: The Chromosomal Impact of Powerful Brands” happening on February 3, 2015 at PUP Manila Bulwagang Balagtas.

Kindle your powerful minds with our TWO POWERFUL SPEAKERS (both Agora Youth Awardees) as they tackle applicable learnings about the ELEMENTS OF A POWERFUL BRAND namely, Mr. Laurence Galindez who used to work at Splash Corporation and now a part of what we daily enjoy, Maskape. Followed by a man of marketing passion, Mr. Miguel Dela Rosa, who worked before in San Miguel Corporation where he handled Brand Management and Trademarks. Currently, he is the Marketing Director of Golden Pot Belly Pig Group.

This event is for FREE, inclusive of certificates and prizes from our sponsors.

We are absolutely opening our doors not only to the MARKETING STUDENTS of PUP MANILA but to OTHER CAMPUSES AS WELL.

FUSION is brought to you by our media partners: Malaya Business Insight, WhenInManila.com, Wazzup Pilipinas, ClickTheCity and Business World. Supported by Jack ‘n Jill Fun-O and Bonifacio Art Foundation Inc. (THE MIND MUSEUM). Special thanks to Akira, Aficionado, Wacoal, Birkenstock, Comfort Sole, Facial Plus and Relans. This event is also endorsed by ECHO and JA Mini-Company.

So what are you still waiting for? Grab your Passes and together, let’s discover BRAND DNA.

Friday, January 30, 2015

Invest in Landmark Properties at Top Tourist Destinations Around the World

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Imagine waking up to sweeping views of Machu Picchu from your bedroom window. Sipping cocktails by the pool of your own villa after a day exploring ancient ruins on the Mexican coast. Building your dream vacation home at the base of Africa’s tallest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro. Or a condo just a stone’s throw away from Manila’s historic Intramuros district.

Ever been on vacation and felt inspired to make the trip more permanent? Perhaps you’re considering buying a vacation home, or looking for new investment opportunities?

Everyone of us wants to have the easy and luxurious life where we can leisurely relax amidst a paradise or dream like home or environment enjoying all the comforts and pleasures. We are all longing for that perfect place that will fully satisfy our exquisite or eccentric taste. Who doesn't want to live within or near the top places around the world.

To inspire your inner travel bug, these are some of the top properties now on the market close to historic sites, from global real estate network Lamudi.

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There’s a new dragon that made its secret lair inside the Star City Amusement park in Pasay, and this one has a beautiful story behind it.

Star Dome – Star City’s newest attraction, was launched last December 2014 and features holographic technology and dome projection to tell a timeless, compelling story about a prince, a princess, and a dragon.

“We are very proud to showcase the power of Epson’s projectors in this one-of-a-kind show. Star Dome is the first and only installation of its kind in the country and Star City is only the third in the world today to feature this attraction,” said Epson Philippines Corporation’s (EPC) President/Country manager, Toshimitsu Tanaka.

For its dome style projection, Star Dome is using the Epson EB-Z8450WU projector – a high-end unit capable of a 360 degree installation, projects HD-quality WUXGA images, and sports a 7,000-lumens lamp. With its proficiency for geometrical corrections and accurate color matching (edge blending), the Epson EB-Z8450WU is perfect for unique installations.

“As the Number 1 global projector brand, Epson is proud to lend our innovative technology to highlight the creative projection applications that Star Dome uses,” added Tanaka.

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The country wanted to know: #NasaanAngPangulo.

The hashtag trended worldwide and perhaps those that do not know Tagalog and are not aware of what is happening in the Philippines, now is the opportunity to share to the whole world where our President was when the bodies of the fallen PNP-SAF men, slain by the MILF from the Mamasapano, Maguindanao "misencounter," arrived in Manila for an arrival honors ceremony at Villamor airbase.

I was already asking that question earlier in the day when I didn't see him at the Arrival Honors ceremony. Meanwhile, personalities like the former First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos were seen at the grandstand of Villamor. Grandstanding.

The most clever and brightest people in Malacanang had no acceptable and reasonable answer for the simplest yet toughest national question: #WhereIsThePresident. #NasaanAngPangulo. Surprisingly, he was delivering a speech at the inauguration of the new Mitsubishi plant located in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

Filipinos are asking why? We were furious at Malacanang's reasoning: the car plant inauguration was pre-planned. The country was mourning while watching the bodies come out from the plane, but the President was all smiles somewhere else. Where is the President? He was busy elsewhere. Priorities.

What's more heart-breaking than seeing the mourning relatives of the dead? Knowing their Commander-in-Chief wasn't there for them. Attending a car plant inauguration instead of consoling with the families who lost their loved ones in Maguindanao. Not cool at all.

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The Team Four.enatics are bonafide fourth year Marketing Management students of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) currently enrolled in the subject Seminar and Workshop in Marketing Trends and Issues (MARK 4073). The Four.enatics designed to promote excellence and competence among PUP marketing students with a total population of 2500 students.

This February 9, 2015, at SM City Sta. Mesa Cinema 1, 12:00PM to 4:00PM, Four.enatics will conduct a seminar workshop in marketing trends and issue entitled: “Marketing Surge: Survive the Waves of Red and Blue Ocean” that aims to educate students, give them a corporate marketing experience in a way that they will enjoy and learn at the same time. And specially, to make them appreciate the beauty and essence of marketing to let them feel what it would be like being a marketing professional.

Speakers for the seminar will be Mr. Josiah Go, an author awarded one of the Ten Outstanding Young Persons of the World in Business Education & World's Top 50 Marketing Influencers and Mr. Simplicio Umali, Jr, President of Gardenia.

Get to know more about the event at their Facebook page.

Thursday, January 29, 2015

AXN Announces “Asia’s Got Talent” Premiere on March 12

Wazzup Pilipinas!

AXN, the home of thrilling entertainment, recently announced the premiere schedule of “Asia’s Got Talent” on March 12, airing on Thursdays at 8.05pm (SG, MY, PH, HK) / 7.05pm (JKT, BKK). The series is the biggest talent competition in the world featuring some of the region’s most incredible performing artists as they compete to take home the coveted winning title.

Officially launching “Asia’s Got Talent” today is the series’ esteemed celebrity judging panel made up of 16 time Grammy-winning Canadian musician David Foster, UK pop sensation and former Spice Girl Melanie C., Indonesian rock icon Anggun, and Taiwanese-American pop idol and actor Van Ness Wu. The judges met with 500 members of the media, sponsors and partners for the first time at the “Asia’s Got Talent” showcase held at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.

“Asia’s Got Talent” is the 63rd adaptation of the Guinness-World-Record-breaking hit “Got Talent” format, which was created by Simon Cowell’s Syco Entertainment and is co-produced by FremantleMedia. The “Got Talent” format is officially the most successful reality TV format in history and currently airs in 186 countries.

Hui Keng Ang, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia said, “‘Asia’s Got Talent’ is a milestone made-in-Asia original production that reinforces SPT Networks, Asia’s position as a leader of original, local content in our region. With a stellar judging panel as well as some of the most spectacular acts from our region, ‘Asia’s Got Talent’ is a top quality production that will thrill Asia.”

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Peace is what we all want, but how can we achieve that elusive peace when the other side is war and blood thirsty!?! Another massacre in Maguindanao that is pointless and unnecessary. The nation's heart is grieving, and bleeding, right now.

"Head shots" do not fall under the guise of self-defense from this so called "misencounter." Neither does the theft of clothing or mobile phones. Body dismemberment and stolen weapons. Just who exactly are the MILF and the current administration trying to kid? Aside from themselves."The Maguindanao killings was NOT self-defense! This was a massacre. Policemen were not only killed, but some bodies also mutilated." Will this be another Maguindanao Massacre that will forever be robbed of justice?

"If the MILF will not hand over the people responsible for this heinous crime, bomb them into the stone age. Exterminate the vermin. " I am equally furious and would very much want to retaliate and get vengeance for our fallen comrades, but is an all-out war aimed to extinct the perpetrators really the only solution?

Senator JV has withdrawn his co-authorship of the Bangsamoro Basic Law due to the recent tragic massacre of nearly 50 men of the Philippine National Police -Special Action Force in Mamasapano, Maguindanao.

"We condemn in the strongest possible terms the recent deaths of almost 50-members of PNP-SAF and the crimes allegedly perpetrated by members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. Considering that such cowardly acts occurred amid finalizing efforts to attain lasting peace in Mindanao, it now led us to contemplate whether the proposed Basic Bangsamoro Law would really address the long-standing problem besetting Mindanao. I signed as a co-author with the desire of giving the BBL a chance to be the instrument of peace in Mindanao. What happened to the PNP-SAF troopers is not a misencounter but a MASSACRE! I am withdrawing my signature as a co-author of the Bangsamoro Basic Law as a result of this carnage. My heart bleeds for our policemen who were mercilessly killed." - JV Ejercito

Wazzup Pilipinas!

I'm betting a lot of couples are now busy looking for the most romantic date this coming season of the hearts. We've been seeing a lot of choices already and it's a bit frustrating to have to choose among the various romantic dinner shows and concerts that seems to be all good. I would love to be part of a show where my partner and I would swoon in delight while we get serenaded by our favorite singers.

But what about the loveless? There are so many singles out there that would be quite lonely these days. The mere thought of the nearing Valentines Day gives shivers to them thinking they have noone special yet to hug tight and whisper sweet nothings.

We have great news to everyone searching for a probable relationship. Who knows, maybe after this event, you'll get to go home having a special friendship that will lead to something more intimate in the near future.

Getting the inspiration from the critical reading of British author E.L. James "50 Shades of Grey" which also now has a sizzling movie equivalent, Telu Events presents a Valentines 2015 event entitled "Speed Dating: 50 Shades of Love" on February 14, 2015 (Saturday) at Oz Bar, in partnership with Holiday Inn & Suites Makati.

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Fun runs are the "in" thing since a couple of years ago, and we continue to patronize it since most of us are all concerned about healthy living, keeping fit, and also giving something back to society through helping out in campaigns or advocacy programs meant to get more awareness or participation from the public such as a month long investor awareness campaign organized annually by the premier association of investment professionals in the country.

The annual fun run of the CFA Society Philippines dubbed as the Financial Fitness Run 2015 will be held on February 22, 2015 in Bonifacio Global City (BGC). The fun run aims to capitalize on the popularity of the running sport in educating the investing public about the importance of being financially fit and how to be financially fit.

For the second installment of Financial Fitness Run, CFA Society Philippines will highlight key principles and practices that will help individual investors successfully reach their retirement goals by introducing the “Essentials of a More Secure Retirement”.

We are all excited to participate in this fun run and hoping we would also be successful in our campaign efforts since investment opportunities would surely help a lot of people raise their status of living to a more productive and bountiful level. Aside from being fit from the run, we are able to help out our economy by empowering others through investments.

National Finance Summit 2015: Ground Zero for Global Competitiveness

Wazzup Pilipinas!

A staggering 4,500+ attendees filled up the 2nd level of SMX Convention Center MOA last January 24, 2015 for one of the biggest gatherings of college students I've been to. I was surprised so many came from many parts of the country. I am glad many of the students from as far as he provinces and other key cities from different regions were able to come to Manila.

The National Finance Summit 2015 gathered together Finance student members of the Junior Confederation of Finance Associations - Philippines (JCFAP) to listen to several distinguished speakers from top level companies share their financial strategies, tips and personal career paths to educate, motivate and inspire many of our future Finance leaders.

JCFAP is the umbrella organization of over 90 college-based finance organizations in the country and is currently compose of more than 7,000 members. It is amazing that out of the 7,000 members, more than half were able to attend such a phenomenal gathering.

Anton Mauricio and Alexander Gilles, advisers of the JCFAP, along with Kathryn Bisnar, National President of JCFAP, and the rest of the JCFAP officers, officiated the event proper with welcome remarks, and introductory speeches presenting the 7 guest speakers composed of Wilhelmina Manalac, Managing Director at Bangko Sentyral ng Pilipinas; Jeng Pascual, Country Controller and Finance Director of Shell Philippines Exploration; Edmund Lee, President of Caylum Trading Institute; Brian Hachez, President of GDS Link Asia Philippines; Salve Duplito, News Personality at ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC); Ed Valencia, CEO of Deutsche Bank; and Edric Mendoza, Lead Anchor of ANC's On The Money.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

They say anyone can set up a blog or social media account and post anything they want. But if you really mean business and would like to reach the highest potential for your online presence, digital influence and market reach, doing it in a well-organized, perfectly-timed and strategic way could mean more active engagement and collaboration opportunities within your network.

Though we all know it sometimes take being at the right place, at the right time, and knowing the right people to get lucky breaks and astounding deals, those instances don't really happen everyday. Most of the time we have to exert extra effort to achieve our goals. However, all that hard work could become a lot more productive if we are able to manage our efforts using the right knowledge gained from experts with years of experience.

I believe we need the proper guidance towards the right path to excel in all our endeavors. I've known a lot of people who have been blogging for the longest time but they continue to remain anonymous for many and their market reach dwindling. They seem to be lacking the much-needed branding and identity that would set them apart from the others and vitally needed to make their presence felt and make a significant influence to the market they are trying to reach. Thus others would sometimes resort to using deplorable tactics just to get their numbers up.

Fortunately, you'll get to learn the right way of earning your blog and social media authority through the Certified Blog and Social Media Entrepreneur Program (CBSME). DigitalFilipino.com is now accepting enrollees for the CBSME program. It's one of the best investments that you can give yourself to gain long-term benefits.

Below are top 5 reasons why you should invest in enrolling for the program:

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Are you on top of the latest trends and strategies to maximize the full potential in establishing your companies' or clients' market dominance? There are now loads of fresh opportunities for greater success stories available out there but not too many E-Commerce experts that are well-equipped with the appropriate knowledge.

With the ASEAN integration nearing to set foot on Philippine soil, the competition and challenges will surely increase and become more demanding. It is high time we become a bit more aggressive on learning proven, updated and enhanced E-commerce solutions that will be globally competitive.

If we want to stand-out and be noticed among the numerous professionals offering similar products and services, we need to be able to learn different challenging tasks like the development of: new business models catering to the focused market segment, improved supply chain back-end and customer support, immediate fraud detection and security systems, online payment systems using various channels, various E-commerce marketing options, Data Privacy and E-Commerce Law compliant systems, and a lot of other tasks can now be easily learned through a program that could help students become Certified in E-Commerce.

Ms. Janette Toral of Digital Filipino, in collaboration with the Asian Institute of E-Commerce and AIE College has launched a program that will produce professionals that can implement effective E-Commerce fundamentals. This programs is called the Certified E-Commerce Specialist, E-Commerce Entrepreneur, and E-Commerce Professional Program.

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The Philippine Junior Marketing Association in partnership with one of the leading integrated communications agencies in the Philippines --Havas Media Ortega, proudly present, "MAD WORLD: UNRAVELING THE CREATIVE GENIUS.”

Our flagship event will be held at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City this coming February 8, 2015 from 1:00pm to 6:00PM. (Registration opens at 10:00AM)

The fee for this event is Php 350 for members and Php 400 for non-members inclusive of snacks and certificate.

So what are you waiting for? Unravel the Creative Genius in you and see you all at #MADWORLD2015!

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AXN announced that the Philippines-based TV personalities Marc Nelson and Rovilson Fernandez will reunite once again on the channel as hosts of the inaugural season of the talent search series “Asia’s Got Talent,” set to launch this March.

Nelson and Fernandez will support the four previously-announced celebrity judges -- David Foster, Anggun, Van Ness Wu and Melanie C. -- in their search for Asia's most jaw-dropping, mind-blowing, and breathtaking performances. Contestants who advance to the semi-finals will face an even tougher judge, as AXN audiences at home will decide who wins the first season of “Asia’s Got Talent.”

Hui Keng Ang, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia said: “As competitors on the second season of ‘The Amazing Race Asia,’ Marc and Rovilson captivated viewers with their on-screen charisma. We saw them as a natural fit to host a show like ‘Asia’s Got Talent’ and are proud to have them back on AXN.”

Paul O’Hanlon, Managing Director of FremantleMedia Asia, said: “In addition to their years of experience, Marc and Rovilson bring an incredible energy that will encourage and motivate the contestants. They complement our panel of judges perfectly and we look forward to working with them in the season ahead.”

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The recent International Gamefowl Festival 2015 held last January 22 and 23 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum was a stunning success as the venue was jam-packed with gamefowl or fighting cock enthusiasts, trainers, owners and experts.

We've seen a great number of gamefowl related booths showcasing not only gamefowls but feeds, equipments, cages, accessories, and other related products that are necessary for cockfighting business or leisure. I came in late so I missed the opening ceremonies where they had the traditional ribbon cutting.

They also have a series of talks happening at a quieter portion of the coliseum up at the 2nd floor where several speakers take turns in sharing valuable information to the attendees. A stage in another area of teh coliseum was also setup to provide a venue for entertainment, contests, giveaways and additional information.

Many are aware that cockfighting is a multi-million business. I've seen an actual cockfighting event at the La Loma cockpit during a tour organized by Smokey Tours and I was overwhelmed of the numerous passionate cockfighters present. There's a lot of money involved since there's also too much preparation at stake in caring for and grooming these fighting cocks to stand out as winners.

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Our grandparents would remember the days when the previous governments would build walls to hide the poor communities and their almost dilapidated shanties especially the ones lined up along the railroads. Our government would always find ways to make the Philippines look good whenever there's an event that would have visitors from other countries.

However, this latest deplorable act of the government is far more insulting as they not only "dressed-up" the areas where the Pope will be passing and staying, they also hid the people whom the Pope should have seen in the first place.

Who else needs more prayers of but our countrymen who belong to the poorest of the poor, the street children who litter our streets because their families have no means to send them to school and feed them at least three times a day, the indigents of Metro Manila who left their provinces thinking they would have a better life here in the city.

When the Pope asked where are the women? He should have also asked where are the street children - if only he knew they were swept out of the streets and taken to a resort somewhere away from his sight.

I pray for "Mercy and Compassion" for the people who thought that hiding the street children of Manila was a great idea. Now maybe the same people are behind what happened during the recent APEC. Is this deceitful short-term strategy our only way to make our country look good in the eyes of foreign visitors?

Below is a repost from the official Facebook page of Lito Atienza. Not that I totally support the man, but I sort of agree to what he and his group are fighting for.

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As a pre-Valentine treat, come and watch Elaine Lee (soprano), Ivan Nery (tenor), Lawrence Jatayna (baritone) and Dingdong Fiel (piano). Directed by Nazer Salcedo.

" SEASONS OF DESIRE " is a tribute to the Filipino Asianovela craze, as well as an attempt to extend the love for opera to a broader audience. Using selected opera pieces from Mozart and Verdi, " Seasons of Love " features tropes from local and international dramas - the sudden tragedy, a betrayal of trust, a plot of revenge, a redemption --- and incorporates these tropes to songs from famous operas such as Le Nozze de Figaro, Magic Flute, La Traviata and Rigoletto.

Repertoire:
1. Mozart: Marriage of Figaro Overture
2. Mozart: Cinque, dieci, venti... (Marriage of Figaro) - duet
3. Mozart: Ein Madchen oder Weibchen (Magic Flute)-solo
4. Mozart: In Uomini (Cosi fan tutte)- solo
5. Mozart: Deh vieni alla finestra (Don Giovanni)- solo
6. Mozart: Papageno/Papagena duet (Magic Flute) - duet
7. Verdi: Mini Overture from Rigoletto
8. Verdi: Questo o Quella (Rigoletto) - solo
9. Verdi: Signor ne principe (Rigoletto) - duet
10. Verdi: Caro nome (Rigoletto) - solo
11. Verdi: Cortigiani (Rigoletto) - solo
12. Verdi: Mio Padre...Tutte le feste (Rigoletto) - duet
13. Verdi: Si vendetta (Rigoletto) - duet
14. Verdi: La donna e mobile (Rigoletto) - solo
15. Verdi: V'ho ingannato (Rigoletto) - duet
16. Verdi: Addio del passato (La Traviata) - solo

" SEASONS OF DESIRE " – a story of love, treachery and vengeance in an opera concert set on FEBRUARY 7, 2015 – SATURDAY - 8 p.m. at the Abelardo Hall, College of Music in U.P. Diliman, Q.C.

Misencounter at Mamasapano: Maguindanao Massacre 2? Poor Mindanao!

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10 Pregnancy Tips To Make Sure You're Doing It Right

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For women of childbearing age looking to become pregnant, it is never too early to engage in healthy habits to ensure that she has a healthy pregnancy and her child has a healthy first step.

Daily consumption of folic acid, even before a woman knows she is pregnant, is crucial. But that isn’t the only thing that women of childbearing age can do to promote good health before, during and after pregnancy. Jacinda Nicklas, M.D. is an internist whose work focuses on the importance of healthy behaviors before, during, and after pregnancy due date to help women avoid diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

“For some women, pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia unmask a high risk for future diabetes and cardiovascular disease,” states Dr. Jacinda Nicklas. “Achieving a healthy weight before pregnancy, and gaining weight within current guidelines can decrease the risk for complications during and after pregnancy. It is worth taking the time to develop healthy habits that will carry you through your pregnancy and after your baby’s birth.”

Are you looking to become pregnant soon? Here are 10 tips to make sure that you are starting your pregnancy on the right foot:

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We have arrived.

UP Junior Executive Society Presents Imperium 2015

We're here and more than ready to throw the biggest and grandest college party in the South! Come and join us as we make history in throwing the FIRST ever party in Los Banos with huge LED screens and world class lights and sounds!

Unleash the inner party royalty in you for only PHP250 inclusive of:

-HALF LITER can of Royal Dutch imported beer 12% alc.

-UNLIMITED mixed drinks provided by Jose Cuervo,

-Dermcare Gift certificates

-Hapee Toothpaste

-James styling wax blue intensity

-Annual Membership at the Centtro Badminton Arena

Also, get a chance to win:

-an annual pass to Universe Club Resorts World Manila

-Gift certificates from Capas Adventures ATV at Mt. Pinatubo

-Gift certificates from Red Gloves boxing gym

-Manila Ocean Park attraction tickets.

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World-renowned Italian Brand Antica Murrina Venezia, makers of fine Murano Jewelry and accessories is now proudly launched here in the Philippines by Mr. and Mrs. Nardone of Porta Lucerna Trading. It is with excitement and flair of a night of fashion, that the introduction to Antica Murrina Venezia, was sparkling in glamour and elegance, here in Makati at the Buddha-Bar.

The marriage of the artistry of the East and the West was highlighted with a very colorful Jewelry fashion show that showcased the exquisite pieces of Antica Murrina Venezia, and a collection of classic and colorful resort collection by fast rising designer Ryan Madamba. High note of the night was, that all the dresses were made of local fabric “Abel Iloco”, a hand-loomed cloth proudly made in the Northern Province of Ilocos Norte.

The owners, Jenny and Mom Nardone together with Ryan Madamba were the soul curators of the Antica Murrina Venezia, pieces that was showcased during the show highlighting unique Murano jewelry and its craftsmanship through the 31-piece Murano Jewelry collection line, personally chosen from the Autumn/ Winter 2014 collection Antica Murrina Venezia. All of this paired with the dresses for chic casual looks to the most glamorous evening parties for women of varied ages by Ryan Madamba.

The event was held at Buddha Bar, hosted by charming and witty Issa Litton and was well attended by Manila’s Who is Who from society circles, fashion, politics, show business and industry leaders including Ms. Imelda Marcos, several Ambassadors and several Misses of the Beauty pageant world.

Murano is known for glass-blowing since the 12th century. It’s famed Maestros as glassblowers creating vast and elaborate chandeliers, wondrous mirrors, and especially at Antica Murrina Venezia, timeless and beautiful Jewels. Visiting Murano and Venice, is like watching an art from another world, as skilled Italian craftsmen and women shape light and color into the unique beauty of each Murano jewelry. Antica Murrina Philippines is proud to represent its beautiful collection, which cleverly combines a tradition of craftsmanship, with contemporary design and an awareness of current trends.

Notte D’ Eleganza which means “A night of Elegance” in Italian, is underlining a premium accent on local artistry and what better way to present these beautiful creations by way of a spectacular fashion & Jewels, combines in one show, graced by some of the most fashionably chic women of today. Manila’s beautiful and known ladies from different facets of society sashayed the runaway as muses of the night wearing each of pieces from the latest Antica Murrina Venezia collection in the likes of Tessa Prieto Valdez, a certified muse in the social scene who is a writer and an interior designer, fashion-savvy Editor in Chief of Mega, Peewee Reyes- Isidro, Divine Lee a media personality and popular endorser and blogger, young actress Ritz Azul of TV 5, Kylie Padilla of GMA 7 and pop royalty, Keana Valenciano from ABS CBN, Rica Peralejo Bonifacio, an actress, singer and blogger, Charmagne Laconico – Beauty Editor of Metro Magazine, Rocio Olbes – one of Manila’s It-Girls and social advocate for welfare of livelihood projects for women in need, the beautiful and fashion-savvy socialites, Jerika Ejercito and Camille Farinas Mathay, Abby Asistio, a musician and social advocate for Alopecia Awareness alongside the top models headed by Asia’s Next Top Model’s Jodilly Piendre ending the glamorous night together with the brand ambassadress, the Face of Antica Murrina Philippines, Ms. Maggie Wilson-Consunji, who walked in beautiful Abel Iloco creations and accent unique masterpieces from Venice.

For the Fashion collection, Ryan Madamba explains his inspiration, “having known the owners personally, Jenny and Mom Nardone who were inspired with the unique craftmanship of Murano jewelry during their travels to Venice, enlightened me with surprise and awe when they shared how the craftsmen of Antica Murrina Venezia blow and handcraft each piece by hand, painstakingly to come up with all these one of a kind jewelry and all its unique colors inspiring a colorful yet classic and clean design in my head. Their expressed love and appreciation for handcrafted creations likewise reminded me of the artistry of Abel Iloco from my home province of Ilocos Norte.

Immediately I thought there was no better way to welcome such an esteemed Italian brand but to marry it with our own. During the creative planning of the show, Mom and Jenny made sure that the handcrafted jewelry and accessories we perfectly partnering with the creations of classic and clean lines of each dress from my colorful collection. We wanted to showcase that whether you are dressing up for the beach, work, a casual tea with friends, a walk in the mall or attending a black-tie gala, the Antica Murrina Venezia collection will accompagny and dress you up in elegance and glamour each and every time.”

Mr. and Mrs. Nardone, who are the driving soul behind Antica Murrina’s arrival to the Philippines , and who are also the creative purveyors behind the interior design firm Porta Galleria (www.portagalleria.com) here in Manila, offering an unique world of Fusion interiors, and lighting solutions inspired from world class brands, thought it was timely and such a perfect addition to the elite lifestyle pieces that complement people with taste for unique and timeless, classy pieces. And Antica Murrina Philippines was born.

“The goal for this event is to spread knowledge of this unique and extraordinary creativity, craftsmanship and artistry that make authentic Murano craftmenship a choice of excellence for a Made in Italy product which is another milestone and special highlight in the many successful and well loved brands under Porta Galleria” - when asked how she feels about bringing Antica Murrina in the country, Mrs. Jennifer Nardone, replied with so much enthusiasm. A jewelry designer herself, she believes in the timeless elegance of each Antica Murrina jewelry hence deciding to bring the brand to the Philippines, so more Filipinas could be mesmerized by its collection. As Jennifer Nardone will put it, “when my husband introduced me these hand crafted Jewels, if I may say, I was right away attracted and caught by its flawless beauty and uniqueness. The vivid colors, the melting crystalline perfection and the elegance are beautiful accents to every stylish women’s wardrobe.”

One of the guests of honor, flying in from Italy was Antica Murrina Venezia CEO, Robert Ciotti, who could not keep his excitement throughout the show. During the event he on his Blackberry sending photos and real time updates to his team in Italy calling the launch a fashion event that could have been staged and rival events in Europe. “I was blown away,” he says. “I came knowing it will be a great event but this exceeded my expectations. And as we are looking into more presence in Asia, I could not have asked for better representation for Antica Murrina Venezia, as Mom and Jenny Nardone who are our partners now in Philippines. The dresses were beautiful and did perfectly complemented our Jewels from Murano. Such a beautiful collaboration that makes me even more excited for a brighter future for Antica Murrina Venezia here in the Philippines.

Mom and Jenny Nardone focused on the experience of bringing “Venice jewels” here to the Philippines and gave a glance to everyone, on how master glass makers perfect every piece of jewelry through an exciting fashion show, complete with enchanting music and dramatic lighting, lush and elegant theme that mesmerize the senses. This event was co-sponsored by Ledcore , Porta Galleria, Okee Vitamin Drink, Bestworld Beverage International Inc, Cygnal Travel & Tours, Light Skin Organics, It Figures Skin Care Clinic, and Iphor Trading Inc.

When asked Mr. Mom Nardone, the President of Antica Murrina Philippines, what separates Antica Murrina Venezia from other jewelry and he was very delighted to say “Each Antica Murrina Venezia Jewelry is handcrafted, so every piece is literally an UNIQUE PIECE. For me Antica Murrina Venezia, is more than just a Jewelry brand. It is a lifestyle, it is Luxury per se, it a slice of Venice and “la dolce Vita Italiana” in each of the pieces, that comes along, when a woman wears Antica Murrina. And that alone, is priceless!”

Antica Murrina Philippines Flagship store is located at the New World Hotel Galleries , right on Makati Avenue, corner Esperanza Street, in the centre of Makati City . Tel : (02) 810 0105 09285202881 www.anticamurrina.com.ph , contact@anticamurrina.com.ph

IT Resilience More Important Than Ever as the Demand for Data Expands Across All Platforms

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Vision Solutions Inc., a leading provider of disaster recovery, high availability and migration software and services, announced today its Seventh Annual State of Resilience Report.

Entitled “The Future of IT: Migrations, Protection & Recovery Insights,” the now publicly available report highlights trends, opportunities and challenges for IT and business leaders alike.

“As companies forecast IT spending in 2015 and beyond, including making decisions around talent acquisition, outsourcing or infrastructure changes, they must consider areas of vulnerability both known and yet unforeseen related to critical business data,” said Vision Solutions Chief Technology Officer Alan Arnold.

“What we’ve uncovered with our research in the State of Resilience Report is that companies are insufficiently prepared to provide resilience for their IT systems, particularly in light of the prevalence of hybrid data centers and the acceleration of cloud adoption. The importance of ensuring availability, protection and synchronization of data across diverse platforms cannot be understated.”

Wazzup Pilipinas!

What does Zac Efron, Ben Stiller, Channing Tatum, Tom Arnold, Deion Sanders and Tamron Hall have in common? You'll now have a chance to vote for your favourite celebrity and catch the highest-voted episode during a special Valentine’s Day preview.

Private jets, after parties, sparkling swag bags and a coterie of personal assistants, publicists, agents and managers. Why would anyone trade this for two days of roughing it in the wilderness? In RUNNING WILD WITH BEAR GRYLLS, the famed adventurer and survivalist will take six celebrities into wild and remote locations for a journey of a lifetime. RUNNING WILD WITH BEAR GRYLLS premieres every Tuesday at 8:00 p.m., starting February 17. Discovery Channel is available nationwide in the Philippines on every major cable, DTH, and local provincial operators.

The celebrities who will be teamed up with Bear in their own stand-alone episodes are Zac Efron, Ben Stiller, Channing Tatum, Tom Arnold, NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, and anchor Tamron Hall. They will each take on the challenge of surviving the wild in an action-packed 48-hour adventure with Bear. Together, they will endure the harsh wilderness and run a high-stakes gauntlet of mental and physical obstacles, with a reward of spiritual renewal waiting at each remote extraction point. From skydiving into the Catskill Mountains, to rappelling down the cliffs of Utah, to battling torrential wind and rain in Scotland, Bear and each of them will have to push both their minds and bodies to the limit.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Victoria Court has a dream. That dream is to transport its guests to a different reality from the time one drives into the properties until they check out. Victoria Court has a vision. That vision is to be the perfect host and delight guests every time, every stay.

Having these challenges in mind, the team has come up with #TheVCExperience – a campaign aimed at informing guests of the distinction that comes with staying at Victoria Court. What makes Victoria Court unique? What sets Victoria Court apart from its competitors? It is #TheVCExperience.

#TheVCexperience showcases everything you can possibly do at Victoria Court. Victoria Court’s goal is to own milestones. From Anniversaries to thematic debuts, they offer the experience customized and catered just for you. Being known for having Superthematic Suites that cater to one’s fantasy date or perfect thematic party, why not party in costume or character. Choose who you want to be for your birthday or stag party. If you want to be the President of the United States for a day, try the Oval Office at Victoria Court Pasig. Addicted to game of thrones, choose your Kingdom and win the Throne at Victoria Court Cuneta. So many themes to choose from – Be Someone Else today.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

When we get married, the traditional "what's yours is yours, what's mine is mine" mentality doesn't always apply anymore. We are introduced to something called "conjugal property”—which, in essence, means property owned by both you and your spouse.

It’s good to talk about each others finances as early as you can in your married life. Ideally, the two of you have started having discussions about your finances even before you got married. If you just got married or have been married for quite some time, it helps if you and your spouse have your financial goals aligned.

Here are six smart investments you and your spouse should consider in order to build a secure future for your family:

1. Get Rid of Debt

Debt carries over even when you get married. If one or both of you have standing loan balances or credit card debt, the two of you would begin working together to eliminate those debts. There are many ways to get rid of debt, and a well-planned and executed budgeting plan can help you minimize debt and get rid of it entirely. You just have to make paying off your debts a priority ideally before you have kids.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Trafalgar, the world’s leading guided holiday specialist, has launched its Trafalgar Mandarin guided holiday programmes here in Singapore and across the Asia Pacific region. Recognising the need to cater to the fast growing demands of the Chinese speaking market, it was decided to bring the Trafalgar Mandarin programme to the region and offer up cross cultural, authentic travel experiences to Chinese travellers.

This programme will be available in Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Australia. To date, Trafalgar Mandarin has had a successful trial year within China in 2014, and the brand is looking forward to empowering Chinese travellers in those countries with these enhanced travel experiences to Europe and the USA.

‘Travel is fast becoming a necessity in our constantly changing and evolving society, and a large segment of that market are Mandarin speaking travellers who prefer to have their creature comforts on holiday.’, said Robin Yap, President of the Travel Corporation in Asia. ‘We recognised the need for a Chinese programme because these Mandarin-speaking travellers, although they want to travel with like-minded people, are also discerning individuals who just don’t want the standard group travel product.

Our research and knowledge of this important market shows they seek a deeper, more meaningful experience of travel; however it has to be carefully curated with a mixture of special comforts such as more Asian style meals, unique guiding and personal time. By creating such a customised programme as this, we intend to broaden our appeal to a wider audience, and most importantly, have our Chinese guests experience enriching moments in Europe with the added comfort of their first language, incorporated with the best and most highly regarded features of the renowned Trafalgar English speaking program.’

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Burgoo is now giving away 2015 calendar with six amazing offerings whenever you dine in at the restaurant.

This is Burgoo’s way of thanking its loyal guests as they will be given a pocket calendar full of exciting giveaways and price cut off for six consecutive months. Every month, different discounts and freebies will be given away such as you’ll get P500.00 off your P1,000.00 food purchase, buy 1 take 1 on the same salads, appetizers or main entree - all with an order of any Coca-Cola products. Avail of these fantastic treats until June and get P500.00 gift certificate which you can use on your next visit!

Get these amazing discounts and freebies at all Burgoo outlets located at T. Morato, Quezon City; Rockwell Center, Makati City; The Podium, Ortigas Center; Gateway Mall, Araneta Center; SM Mall of Asia; Robinsons Galleria, Quezon City; The Block, SM City North EDSA, SM City Marikina, SM Southmall in Alabang; The District by Ayala Malls in Cavite; The Terraces by Ayala Malls in Fairview: and Starmall in Taguig.

For reservations and inquiries, please call 9277396, 8981815, 6875565, 7264663, 9136112, 5560091, 6336256, 4420115, 4771932.

Monday, January 26, 2015

Avida Kicks Off 25th Year Celebration With New, Multi-Vignette TVC

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Avida, Ayala Land’s residential brand for middle income Filipinos, marks its 25th year with the launch of a TVC (TV Commercial) on January 25. The TVC three interconnected scenarios – a young start-up couple, an OFW father welcomed back by his family to their new home, and a female painter pursuing her passion for art – that embody Avida’s commitment to find a world of possibilities to inspire lives at 25.

Set to the tune of Avida’s Silver Anniversary theme song “Home is Here” sang by Johnoy Danao, an independent musician and recording artist with a huge online following, it portrays the present as only Avida can do it and the future as Avida envisions it. The mission is to enable individuals to live their dreams and make each day special in their Avida home.

With a glowing 25-year track record, Avida’s thrust is all about developing and enriching communities that serve to bring about possibilities and opportunities for an inspired and happier living. The company’s efforts are now geared towards providing more than the basics of sure, secure, and sensible developments; it celebrates this milestone by setting its sights on a real estate landscape defined by providing lifestyle essentials of quality, intuitive designs grounded on what enriches people’s lifestyle.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

I think a felt the collective shouts, sighs, and moans of despair of all Pinoy pageant followers especially the Filipinos watching live at the FIU Arena at the results of the 63rd Annual Miss Universe Pageant.

What really broke my heart is that the Top 5 cannot even answer the questions properly. I'm sure MJ Lastimosa can do so much better. They should make the QA the first segment. A lot of brains get wasted with the look factor. Just thinking how MJ will answer those questions. For sure, MJ will be crowned as this year's Miss Universe if she was part of the Top 5.

Its time to redefine beauty! Its a woman's totality and the way she carries herself, not white skin and colored hair. The Filipinas are not your ordinary chink-eyed Asians. Our Pinays got all the right curves in all the right places. We have been consistently in the Top5 since 2010 (Venus Raj) but I guess MJ just got a tougher competition this year.

When MJ was called, the crowd went wild... Were the judges deaf and blind? With that million dollar smile, MJ should have won everyone's hearts and all the judges' favorable votes. For sure their biggest regret right now is that they let the potential winner slip away. We should have claimed the crown.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Covering live from Miami, Florida inside the FIU Arena is our Wazzup Pilipinas correspondent, Mr.. Joel Cuison, who was able to give us real time updates of what was going on already.

I was actually laughing but rejoicing at the same time when I've learned that they already announced the Top Ten winners and it included Miss Philippines Mary Jean "MJ" Lastimosa on 5th place. That was already after the performance of entertainer Prince Royce and after the Swimsuit presentation of the Top 15 finalists.

Back in the Philippines, they were still announcing the Top 15 and their still calling out the 8th place. Can you imagine how late our 'live telecast" is here in the Philippines?

Not surprising why many have been monitoring the beauty pageant using online live streaming, similar to when we watch all Manny Pacquia fights. Incidentally, the "Pacman" is one of the judges of the Miss Universe 2015, and we hope he is also rooting for our very own..hehehe

Too bad MJ was not part of the top 5, and obviously not the new Miss Universe of 2015. If I was one of the judges, I would put Mary Jean Lastimosa on top of my list. She should be the winner of this year's annual Miss universe beauty pageant.

Nonetheless, every contestant is already a winner for all are proudly representing their country. They are obviously all beauty and brains and gone are the days when geeks could not be pretty and sexy. Congratulations to the new Miss Universe 2015 - Miss Colombia.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

What happens when you bring your blogger wife to an event? We just came from an event and while I was checking on my emails and replying to all the event invitations, requests for online media partnerships, posting of press releases, etc., she was already silently working on her laptop and writing about the event.

I thought she was competing with me in writing about the story, as if we are on a race to find out who would be fast enough to share the "breaking news." Why not? It is truly good news to share since Aventine will be having only 27 units available, and I'm betting many will be equally competing to immediately purchase the property - not only as a home, but also as one of the best investments you can ever have.

Later she revealed that she's excited to share the news immediately because some of her friends may be interested to purchase the properties too, and she's now thinking of becoming a part-time "property investment consultant" - what Vista Land is calling their sales force now.

Taguig city is such a very progressive place already that many would grab every opportunity to become part of the progress. With the many offices and other business establishments like malls, hotels, restaurants, and others providing entertainment, leisure and services, the city is continuously reaching its full potential at such quick pace.

There's very few house and lot properties for sale in the city. Most of what you'll see available are townhouses and condos so this Aventine project of Crown Asia will surely sell like pancakes - as fast as loads for mobile phones and probably even faster.

The Impact of Technology on Present Generation Learners

Wazzup Pilipinas!

During today’s time, it is not surprising why more and more people are owners of electronic tablets, smart phones, touch-screen laptops, and the like. All sorts of electronic devices-all the fruits of the past generations’ efforts when it comes to their respective fields, especially in science and technology-are arising in this dynamic world. In short, technology is advancing rapidly. Consequently, this fact triggers this “domino effect” in many areas like medicine, art, not to mention nearly everyone’s overall lifestyle. One of these major areas is instruction or education.

Although technology might be our best asset when comes to the art of instruction and learning, it might also be a drawback, depending on how we use it. Our latest improvements include e-books, projectors, scientific and automatic tools like statistical calculators-which are extremely handy in works such as theses and dissertations-and the like. All inventions are inspired by the inventors’ ideas, needs and aspirations to create them, as well as good old-fashioned hard work. Now, with the aid of the internet, the answers to their three-page-long research assignment are just a few clicks away. No longer do they need to go to their local library to find books and other written articles, which is the advantage; however, because of this, they aren’t gaining experience, which is one of the prime objectives of research: to be familiar with this method of exploring and investigating.

Even though most of our lives have been made convenient by these accomplishments, research says that more of today’s students find studying hard as a mere option and not a responsibility. There are fewer students who find time to read academic texts and would enjoy all the various applications on their gadgets or watch a movie on their smart televisions instead. Even though compact disks were invented already, students do these more because of the improved convenience. They tend to cram when major exam dates arrive. Some even prefer to sleep while a lecture is in session because they know they can find it online later at home. This also ruins another objective of formal education: to develop not only critical thinking skills but also simple practices called reading, listening, remembering, and traits like tactfulness, awareness and so on.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Breaking News that you wouldn't want to miss, especially to those gadget and electronics lovers!

Unwrap 2015 with Lazada.com.ph Chinese New Year Kick-Off Sale happening this January 27 only!

As announce by Lazada Philippines at an event held at Limited Edition coffee shop in Makati led by its co-founder and CEO, Inanc Balci, the promo will strictly be only for January 27, 2015 as a discount treat for all Lazada Philippines buyers, as well as to reward our loyal readers and followers by giving them a slash off the original prices of any item within the Lazada Philippines site.

With the successful Online Revolution Month culminating last December 12, 2014, Lazada.com.ph is poised to stage yet again another show-stopping shopping event happening this January 27 as a kick-off to the forthcoming Chinese New Year.

With jaw-dropping deals of as much as 88% off on select best-selling items, flash sales, and surprise items, keep your eyes peeled on www.lazada.com.ph/chinese-new-year/ starting 12:01 AM of January 27 and will end on 11:59 PM of the same day.

If you are curious as to what makes it different from the other sale that Lazada.com.ph has previously staged, here are a few pointers to get you started:

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The economy is awash with money! This is one of the thoughts presented to us during the launch of the expansion of the Ponticelli Gardens property development - a part of the Vista City, a 1,550-hectare masterplan of Vista Land that interconnects 4 thriving areas in the South namely Muntinlupa, Las Pinas, Laguna and Cavite.

The largest homebuilder in the Philippines once again leads in innovation with the launch of 4 new house models in Ponticelli Gardens expansion located in Daang Hari of Bacoor, Cavite. Crown Asia is truly making sure most Filipinos get the opportunity to have their own homes in communities thriving with exquisitely-designed houses and flourishing amenities.

Your friendly neighborhood Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas celebrated the launch last January 23, 2015 along with so many property consultants and sales force of Vista Land. We witnessed a ribbon cutting ceremony and toured the vacant lot where the latest expansion of Ponticelli Gardens will be built. Further details where shared during the gathering held at the Ponticelli Hills clubhouse, just a walking distance away from the proposed main entrance of the expansion.