enjoying wonderful world

Superbook Super Launch on May 25 at Robinsons Galleria

2013-05-22T23:28:00.002+08:00

Be ready as SUPERBOOK once again takes you for another great and unforgettable quest. Bring the entire family and re-live the adventure at the Superbook SUPERLAUNCH on Saturday, May 25, 2013 at Robinsons Galleria Activity Center at 2:00 p.m.

This is an exciting event with loads and loads of FUN, LEARNING and GIVEAWAYS! Experience and enjoy interactive games, presentations, photo booths and activities that the whole family will surely love, plus a chance to meet Gizmo and our celebrity friends!

Experience the greatest adventure ever written and told. The new Superbook, reimagined for the new generation airs June 2013 on GMA.

For more information, visit www.batangsuperbook.com

and Like Facebook at www.facebook.com/BatangSuperbook.

The Volcanoes whip UAE during the Asian 5 Nations Rugby Championship

2013-05-22T02:14:00.001+08:00

Congratulations to the Philippine Volcanoes for winning their game against the UAE during the Asian 5 Nations Rugby Championship, Saturday May 18, 2013 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila, Philippines.

The Volcanoes, the Philippine rugby team came up with a brave, battling game to smother the United Arab Emirates, 24-8, held at Rizal Memorial Stadium Saturday night. The Volcanoes whip UAE, keep its spot in the HSBC Asian Five Nations elite group at least until next year.

The Volcanoes, who made their debut in the division this year, won for the first time after dropping matches against champion Japan, Hong Kong and Korea in their first three assignments.

This proved that Filipinos can play rugby. The Volcanoes are a force in Asia being in the top five and I really believe that we deserve to be here. The victory installed the Philippines as No. 4 in the continent.

The night with about 5,700 spectators , the biggest attendance ever in a rugby game held in the Philippines showed up and the majority of them expatriates who cheered both sides.

Thanks FILA Philippines for giving us, tri-media people the chance to witness the first, live great championship rugby game here in our country! This is one experience of being inside the game, with full of excitement and cheers!

Read more stories and updates @FILA Philippines. Fila is one of the major sponsor of the Philippine Volcanoes.

Photos: Mac Vasquez , FILA amd EWW.

WD’S My Passport ® Ultra™ Offers Consumers Ultimate Mobile Storage Solution Including WD Smartware™ PRO Data Protection with Dropbox Integration

2013-05-21T15:50:00.001+08:00

WD®, a Western Digital (NASDAQ: WDC) company, today announced the availability of the My Passport® Ultra™ line of portable hard drives, which combine additional layers of data protection with super-fast USB 3.0 connectivity, a slim, compact design and four color choices to offer mobile consumers the safest and easiest way to protect their digital content while traveling. Available in 500 GB, 1 TB and new 2 TB capacities, My Passport Ultra portable hard drives have built-in WD SmartWare™ Pro backup software with Dropbox integration, hardware encryption and password protection to safeguard against unauthorized drive access. A protective pouch is included with the My Passport Ultra to help shield it from the daily knocks encountered by today's mobile consumer.

“WD's My Passport Ultra combines USB 3.0, a range of colors and capacities and the best software and hardware functions currently found in our line of My Passport portable storage drives to create the ultimate portable digital safe for today's active consumer,” explained Jim Welsh, executive vice president and general manager of WD's branded products and consumer electronics groups. “Adding WD SmartWare Pro technology with auto backup and password protection to one of the industry's fastest interfaces and largest capacity drives gives consumers the convenience and peace of mind to enjoy, share, and protect their personal digital content everywhere they go.”

Pricing and Availability

My Passport Ultra portable hard drives are protected by a 3-year limited warranty and are available at select retailers and distributed by EA Global Supply Chain Solutions, Inc. and Axis Global Technologies Inc. My Passport Ultra 500 GB has a Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of PHP 3,790, and the My Passport Ultra 1 TB is PHP 5,090.

About WD

WD, a Western Digital company, is a long-time innovator and storage industry leader. As a storage technology pacesetter, the company produces reliable, high-performance hard disk drives and solid state drives. These drives are deployed by OEMs and integrators in desktop and mobile computers, enterprise computing systems, embedded systems and consumer electronics applications, as well as by the company in providing its own storage products. WD’s leading storage devices and systems, networking products, media players and software solutions empower people around the world to easily save, store, protect, share and experience their content on multiple devices. WD was established in 1970 and is headquartered in Irvine, California. For more information, please visit the company’s website at www.wd.com.

Western Digital Corp. (NASDAQ: WDC), Irvine, Calif., is a global provider of products and services that empower people to create, manage, experience and preserve digital content. Its companies design and manufacture storage devices, networking equipment and home entertainment products under the WD, HGST and G-Technology brands. Visit the Investor section of the company's website (www.westerndigital.com) to access a variety of financial and investor information.

This news release contains forward-looking statements, including statements relating to the expected availability date for the My Passport Ultra 2 TB hard drive. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements, including changes in markets, demand, global economic conditions and other risks and uncertainties listed in Western Digital’s recent SEC filings, to which your attention is directed. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak on as of the date hereof, and WD undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

“RenaiXance – A Decade of Renaissance Art Gallery" Exhibit Set to Open on June 5

2013-05-20T23:49:00.000+08:00

“RenaiXance – A Decade of Renaissance Art Gallery ” is set to open on June 5, 2013 at the Art Center located at the 4/F SM Megamall Bldg. A, Ortigas Center.

Invited as special guests of honor are National Artists Napoleon Abueva, Arturo Luz, Ben Cabrera, Abdulsari Imao and other respected names in the field of arts.

The 6:30 p.m. invitational cocktail reception will feature more than 50 of the country’s foremost names in the field of visual arts (figurative and abstract), sculpture and photography.

The featured artists are as follows: Leonard Aguinaldo, Ged Alangui, Hermes Alegre, Ral Arrogante, Rey Aurelio, Jojo Austria, Aris Bagtas, Max Balatbat, Flor Español Baradi, Bencab, Bien Benitez, Art Bermido, Benji Bisaya, Remy Boquiren, Boy Briones, Boboy Cañete, Ariel Caratao, Arley Carig, Felix Catarata, Marco Coching, Addie Cukingnan, Gary Custodio, Alfred Dato, Jane Ebarle, Clarence Eduarte, Egai Fernandez, Carlos Florido, James Gabito, Caloy Gabuco, Sandra Fabie Gfeller, Fitz Herrera, Abdulmari Imao, Juan Sajid Imao, Jay Javier, Josef Laureano, Alice Martha Lee, Lindslee, Art Lozano, At Maculangan, Jordan Mang Osan, Pol Mesina, Sio Montera, Nemiranda, Jonathan Olazo, Romulo Olazo, Jim Paredes, Azor Pazcoguin, Sam Penaso, Doltz Pilar, Jucar Raquepo, Cid Reyes, Ricardo Reyes, Rishab, Ronaldo Ruiz, Aner Sebastian, Fernando Sena, Wally Sy, Peter Sutcliffe, Resty Tica, Jun Tiongco, Van Tuico, Wig Tysmans, Orley Ypon, Jose Villadolid and Melissa Villaseñor.

“RenaiXance – A Decade of Renaissance Art Gallery” is curated by Cid Reyes, author of coffeetable books on National Artists Arturo Luz, Bencab, J. Elizalde Navarro, and Napoleon Abueva. He received a Best in Art Criticism Award from the Art Association of the Philippines.

“RenaiXance – A Decade of Renaissance Art Gallery ” will run until June 29, 2013

For further details, call Renaissance Art Gallery at tel. 6373101

Visit facebook.com/renaissanceartgallery

2013 is the year of running for Adidas

2013-05-20T20:52:00.000+08:00

Gear up for all in for Philippines, adidas King Of The Road 2013. This is for health and wellness through sports. And for bigger run features, KOTR is here for all in for your Alma Mater.

Last February, adidas launched Energy Boost, a groundbreaking innovation in running footwear technology featuring superior cushioning that allows runners to store and unleash energy more efficiently with every stride.

To continue their efforts for all things running, adidas is back with its annual King of The Road (KOTR), one of the most anticipated races across Southeast Asia. This year, adidas is pushing the limits for KOTR to be even bigger than before as it opens a new category exclusively for students 25 years old and under.

The 10K Relay for Students is set specifically to encourage the youth to get into a healthy, active lifestyle and to give them a chance to represent their alma mater. Students need to team up in pairs – one male and one female – with each running 5K to complete the total 10K distance. Winners don’t just get individual cash prizes; they will also win prizes for their schools.

Jason Gervasio, Brand Communications and Sports Marketing Manager of Adidas Philippines, said that “adidas has always been an advocate of health and wellness through sports. The King of the Road is a testament to that fact.”

“The new School Championship category aims not only to promote fitness, but also to inspire teamwork and pride as students are given the chance to be ambassadors of their respective campuses.”

The adidas KOTR 2013 will be held on July 7, 2013 at Bonifacio Global City. Apart from the School Championship category, the race will include distances of 10K for the general public and 16.8K with Open and Closed categories. The Closed category is strictly for Filipinos while the Open category is for all nationalities.

The top male and female winners from the 16.8K Closed category will be hailed as the Philippines’ King and Queen of the Road and will represent the Philippines in the KOTR Southeast Asia Championship in Malaysia.

How to Join KOTR 2013

There are two ways to sign up for this year’s adidas King of the Road Philippines:

1. Visit http://adidaskingoftheroad.com/ph and register online by filling up all the required fields (not available for 10KM Relay for Students). Online registration is open from May 2 to June 23, 2013.

2. Visit any of the seven (7) adidas KOTR 2013 registration sites in the following stores —adidas Greenbelt 3, adidas SM Mall of Asia, adidas SM Megamall, adidas Powerplant, adidas Trinoma, adidas Two Parkade (Bonifacio Global City), or Runnr at Bonifacio High Street. Onsite registration is open from May 2 to June 30, 2013.

Race fees are as follows: P1,300 for the 16.8K race; P1,100 for for the 10K regular race; and P800 for for the 10K students’ race. Runners signing up for the 10K students’ race will have to present vaild student IDs (must be valid until July 7, 2013) at the registration sites.

There is also a discount for runners that sign up in large groups. Participants who register with their friends and family at the same time at the registration site get the following discounts:

Group of 10 runners = Php100 off each
Group of 15 runners = Php150 off each
Group of 20 runners = Php200 off each

Supporting this year’s race are the sponsors Summit Water, 100 Plus, Sennheiser, EO Optical, adidas Bodycare, L Timestudio, and Century Tuna.

For more news, updates, and promos on adidas KOTR 2013:

visit www.facebook.com/adidas

or follow the conversation with #kotrph2013.

44 Kalokalikes Battle It Out in "It's Showtime" Kalokalike Level Up!

2013-05-19T02:39:00.000+08:00

“Kalokalike Level Up” is just one among the many surprises and new segments “It’s Showtime,” the country’s number one noontime show, has in store for its loyal madlang people.

Forty-four look-alikes of the most popular local and international stars will face off and top each other in the grandest gala of “Kalokalikes” called “Kalokalike Level Up” in ABS-CBN’s top-rating noontime show “It’s Showtime” beginning Monday (May 20).

Watch as the celebrity wannabes unleash their wild personality and charisma for “Kalokalike Level Up,” the look-alike contest’s semi-finals round that will be held over the course of two weeks from May 20 until May 31. Each day, a group of Kalokalikes will battle it out to try to get a coveted spot in the grand finals that will be held on June 1.

Industry veterans will sit as judges to scrutinize each of the 44 Kalokalikes from which only one will emerge as the Ultimate Kalokalike who will bring home P300,000. The first runner-up and second runner-up will receive P200,000 and P100,000, respectively.

The noontime show’s “Kalokalike” segment has been widely talked about since it was launched in January this year due to some of its sensational contestants Coco Martin, Kim Chiu, Joey De Leon, and Daniel Padilla.

“Kalokalike” has also become a regular trending topic on social networking sites when it comes on in the program.

It's Showtime KALOKALIKES Adele, Jay-R, Arnel Pineda, Yael Yuzon, Charice, Jay Contreras, Justin Bieber, Teddy Corpuz, Aiza Seguerra, Vice Ganda, Teddy Corpuz

It's Showtime KALOKALIKES---Kapuso stars Bong Revilla, Joey de Leon, Wally Bayola, Allan K, Richard Gutierrez, Dingdong Dantes

It's Showtime KALOKALIKES Paulo Avelino, Julia Montes, Kathryn Bernardo, Daniel Padilla, Valerie Concepcion, Maja Salvador, Kim Chiu

It's Showtime KALOKALIKES Nonito Donaire, The Rock, Robin Padilla, Ong-bak, Kobe Bryant, Manny Pacquiao, Freddie Roach, Jinkee Pacquiao, Melai Cantiveros, Joy Viado, Joross Gamboa

It's Showtime KALOKALIKES Jake Cuenca, Coco Martin, Denise Laurel, Angel Locsin, Christopher De Leon, Angelica Panganiban, John Estrada, Jhong Hilario, and Richard Yap

Stay tuned to “It’s Showtime,” hosted by Anne Curtis, Vice Ganda, Vhong Navarro, Billy Crawford, Karylle, Kuya Kim Atienza, Teddy Corpuz, Jugs Jugueta, Jhong Hilario, Ryan Bang, Coleen Garcia, at Eric ‘Eruption’ Tai, at 12:30 PM and on Saturdays at 12NN on ABS-CBN.

For updates on the program,

follow @ItsShowtimena on Twitter

or like www.facebook.com/itsShowtimena.

To watch previous “Kalokalike” episodes, visit showtime.abs-cbn.com.

Cheers to Good Times

2013-05-17T12:16:00.001+08:00

Living life to the fullest. Cheers to good times, as always ! There are times everyone's worried and anxious—waiting for the result of your presentation. You haven't slept properly for days working on that pitch. Then your phone rings. You almost drop it since you've been running on coffee all day. You're nervous but you answer. Yes! You win the client and everyone in the office starts buzzing, then screaming. You deserve to party. Go and celebrate this good time with your team!

“Partying is our way of saying ‘yahoo’ and expressing our delight in achieving success. Since the leap is very important to us, our way of celebration should be something that we will remember together with that accomplishment,” says Von de Torres, Managing Director, Emperador Distillers.

De Torres believes that partying over wine makes good times even better. “There are so many things in common about wine and happiness. As an American Chef-Author, Julia Child would put it, wine is one of the agreeable and essential ingredients of life. We all agree to happiness and its essence in our life so as with wine in important celebrations.”

But in order to have a real good time, be sure to get only the real and fine wine. People could all agree that only with fine wine can celebrations be truly enjoyed so it should be wine that gives authentic world-class flavor that special moments deserve. It should be something that doesn’t only fit the occasion but a high-quality wine that suits the taste.

Emperador Distillers brings Rossi Sweet Red, a sweet red wine crafted from grapes grown in California’s sun-drenched vineyards and bursting with flavor and aroma, for your cheers to good times. It has layers of vanilla, bright cherry and wild raspberry flavor creating a different kind of sweetness.

“Yes it is sweet but remains a real wine. It’s that different kind of sweetness that makes it unique but authentic. This is how real red wine should be. You can only expect such authenticity from the number one table wine in the world.”

De Torres warns against unauthentic sweet wines. “They’re basically bottled with very low alcohol content and lots of sweeteners, which is a far cry from authentic Rossi,” she says, adding that Rossi Sweet Red was specifically created to be sweet and be consumed cold, “As in with ice.”

One can already hear the purists scoffing but wine on-the-rocks is already becoming a trend in the US. Rossi Sweet Red, in particular, is recommended to be enjoyed with ice.

The ice, De Torres said, brings out the flavor and makes for a smoother finish and doesn’t compromise the taste and actually makes it even better. Even if the ice melts, the taste stays perfect so everyone can savor all the sweetness and real wine flavor.

So celebrate sweet victories, big or small—winning a pitch, wedding engagements, graduations, having a baby—with a wine that is just as sweet and a bit more refreshing. These are good times worth partying for. There’s a reason to be happy and to celebrate everyday. Whether baby steps or big leaps, you can always cheers to good times with Rossi Sweet Red.

Chateau 1771's 25th Year Anniversary

2013-05-16T15:56:00.000+08:00

In celebration of its 25th year anniversary, Chateau 1771 is offering two special treats from May 18 to 31, featuring well-loved and one-of-a kind dishes by the group’s Executive Chef, Vicky Rose Pacheco.

True to the spirit of festivity, Chateau 1771 offers two stand-out dishes that have stood the test of time with a glass of wine for P990 net, available during dinner only. The first course is the restaurant's renowned Raclette, a luxurious melted Swiss cheese with marbled potatoes, pickled onions and gherkins-- a certified favorite for over two decades. The piece de resistance is the restaurant’s head-turner, Potence. Juicy and flavorful steak hangs from a metal gallows is presented to the diner flambéed with skill and flair. The beef is seasoned, robust and tender, dressed in its natural juices then whisked with some brandy.

The second menu is a tribute to Chef Vicky’s academic roots: a degustation menu highlighting Chateau’s signature dishes, especially prepared for Hotel and Restaurant Management students and 2013 HRIM graduates. Get the royal treatment and indulge in a sumptuous degustation for every group of four at P550 net each from 2 PM to 5 PM. Designed to delight and inspire future chefs and restaurateurs, the menu includes French Onion Soup, Caesar Salad, Pasta Chorizo, Lemon Chicken, Potence, and Coffee Pie. Upon reservation, valid school ID’s or class cards should be emailed to Alina Armena at chateaurestaurants@gmail.com.

If you're looking for a winning fine dining restaurant, look no further than Chateau 1771. Its rare offer is sexy enough for a date yet comfortable enough for family, friends, students and graduates. And with its reputation as one of the most successful restaurants in Manila, diners can be assured that at Chateau 1771, there’s no mediocre meal. It is always an experience.

Chateau 1771

Greenbelt 5 is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. every Sunday to Thursday and 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 m.n. for Friday to Saturday.

For reservations, banquets and catering services, please call 729-9760 to 61 or (0917) 8626467.

Chateau 1771 is a member of the Chateau 1771 Group of Restaurants that include Sentro 1771 in Greenbelt 3, Sentro 1771 in Serendra, Bonifacio Global City and Café 1771 in El Pueblo Real de Manila, ADB Avenue cor. Julia Vargas Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City.

UNIQLO Launches Collection from Korean Women’s Brand O’2nd Worldwide

2013-05-16T02:01:00.001+08:00

Available from May at all UNIQLO outlets, and at the online store

"With a corporate statement committed to changing clothes, changing conventional wisdom and change the world, Fast Retailing is dedicated to creating great clothing with new and unique value to enrich the lives of people everywhere."

UNIQLO announces a collaboration with O’2nd, to offer the Korean women’s brand’s fun and funky summer dress collection at all UNIQLO outlets across its 13 markets worldwide, and at its online store.

The collection will feature “The Little Band Dress”; an assortment of colorful belted dresses based on the multifaceted function of dressing with form combined with the color block, cut out, stripes, and floral print signature elements of O’2nd.

UNIQLO has a long record of successful collaboration with global brands, including +J, and UU. This latest tie up with O’2nd was driven by Yukihiro Katsuta of UNIQLO R&D, who said, “We have often collaborated with Western and Japanese designers, and this time we are pleased to partner with a Korean brand aiming to take itself from Asia to the World.”

O’2nd is managed by SK networks, and the president Kevin Cho said, “It is very meaningful that UNIQLO, which has already done the collaborative design project with global fashion brands such as Theory, Undercover and Jil Sander, appreciated the design competitiveness of O’2nd and suggested the collaboration. Through this collaboration, it’ll give an opportunity to people around the world to meet and experience O’2nd.”

The O’2nd summer dresses are composed of twelve items, all available only at UNIQLO SM Mall of Asia beginning from May 16, 2013 for between Php 990 – P1990.

Currently, O’2nd products are available at department stores and select retail shops across 14 markets, including Japan, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Russia, the U.K., and the U.S.

About O’2nd

O’2nd was established in 1997 in Seoul, Korea. Evoking the elements of Pop culture in a contemporary state of mind, under the direction of the parent company SK Networks, the brand transcended to visual displays of the pop element boutique concept shops throughout Korea, and a greater concentration in China in 2009. Following the established leading role in the contemporary markets of Korea and China, foot printing the namesake label based on the philosophy of youth and fun, O’2nd proceeded with its global launch, developing an advanced contemporary interpretation defining and reinventing classics through a modern lens. The collective captures the colorful, quirky, multifaceted spirit of the O’2nd girl and her unparalleled sophistication of combining humor and classic. The advanced collective was launched in 2011 exclusively to top tier stores globally; A national exclusive launch and campaign with Barneys New York, Harvey Nichols UK, HK, UAE, furthermore to top establishments throughout Japan including Barneys Japan, Isetan and Opening Ceremony.

The brand is continuing their expansion in the global market, strategically planning each partnership, continuing to maintain the brands sensibility for discovery, through select distribution.

About UNIQLO and Fast Retailing

UNIQLO is a brand of Fast Retailing Co., Ltd., a leading global Japanese retail holding company that designs, manufactures and sells clothing under seven main brands: Comptoir des Cotonniers, GU, Helmut Lang, J Brand, Princesse tam.tam, Theory, and UNIQLO. With global sales of approximately 928 billion yen for the 2012 fiscal year ending August 31, 2012, Fast Retailing is currently the world’s fourth largest apparel retail company, and UNIQLO is Japan’s leading specialty retailer.

UNIQLO continues to open large-scale stores in some of the world's most important cities and locations, as part of its ongoing efforts to solidify its status as a truly global brand. Today the company has a total of more than 1,200 stores in 13 markets worldwide including Japan: China, France, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, U.K. and U.S. UNIQLO operates an integrated business model under which it designs, manufactures, markets and sells high-quality, casual apparel. The company believes that truly great clothes should be supremely comfortable, feature universal designs, are of high quality and offer a superb fit to everyone who wears them.

For more information about UNIQLO and Fast Retailing, please visit www.uniqlo.com and www.fastretailing.com

SM Aura, the latest high-end lifestyle place, opens tomorrow, May 17 at The Fort

2013-05-16T01:38:00.000+08:00

On May 17, SM Aura Premier, SM Prime Holdings’ latest high-end lifestyle destination project, will open its doors to the public at The Fort.

It is envisioned as a landmark in the Taguig CBD, the fast flourishing “micro-city” where multinational and local corporations, as well embassies, consulates, and cultural offices maintain their Philippine headquarters. High-end residential buildings, international and innovative schools, technologically advanced medical centers, and other attractions that have transformed the area into a diverse and welcoming community.

There has been a lot of buzz about the mall and the aura of mystery that surrounds it –– an inexplicable energy that is seductive and incredibly magnetic at once.

Here are 10 things shoppers can look forward to at SM Aura:

1. Its architecture is like a work of art. SM Aura is designed to stand out, not only visually, but also through the convenience and attractions that it offers shoppers. Architect Willy Cosculluela drew inspiration from nature, creating a sculptural form that conjures images of the flow of water, the grace of air, and the strata of the earth.

2. Green architecture. SM Aura Premier is committed to sustainable design and development, and reducing the structure’s carbon footprint through green architecture. The SM Engineering Design and Development team on design as well practiced sustainable operations. Pollution and waste management systems are planned for maximum efficiency; a water treatment facility to recycle water for non-potable use is in place; and its massive green roof is designed to reduce the heat island effect in the structure. International green standards are strictly followed to ensure that SM Aura Premier will use energy and other resources efficiently. There are also bicycle paths and landscaped recreational areas around SM Aura, to ensure that the community will continue to breathe fresh air for many years to come.

3. It redefines lifestyles. SM Aura gathers carefully selected local and international brands in one yet sustainable structure that redefines the country’s retail, fashion, gourmet, and lifestyle scene. This gives new meaning to the SM mantra of “having it all.” And of course, the group’s mainstays –– a more upscale SM Store, the Supermarket, Kultura, Our Home, and Toy Kingdom –– will be there, as will Forever 21, Uniqlo, Watsons and ACE Hardware.

4. It will be a mall of firsts. Many global brands will have their first store in the country at SM Aura. Among these are Suiteblanco, Stefanel, Minelli, TM Lewin, and Petit Bateau for fashion; as well as Paul Boulangerie, NBA Café, and Todd English Food Hall for dining. It will also house the latest in concept and flagship stores.

5. The Sky Park. The Sky Park has landscaped gardens and various water features that provide customers with the perfect ambience as they enjoy tried and tested gastronomic treats and exciting culinary concepts.

6. The Pod. With a unique dome design set against a lush garden backdrop, the Pod is set to be a landmark in the Fort area. Designed for events, exhibits, and performances, the Pod is a great way to meet, greet, and be one with SM Aura Premier’s diverse community.

7. The Chapel of San Pedro Calungsod. At the top level of SM Aura will be a chapel with an unorthodox yet highly aesthetic and tubular design. The Chapel of San Pedro Calungsod is an exercise in quiet elegance –– the perfect place to stop, rest, and reflect in this busy city.

8. Non-stop entertainment. The IMAX alone is worth a visit to SM Aura Premier, as are the state-of-the-art cinemas designed to provide film lovers with a contemporary, elegant ambience. There are also two Director’s Clubs for special screenings.

9. SMX Aura. This trade hall is a great place for exhibits and corporate meetings that will bring brands and organizations closer to the pulse of the Taguig Business District. The 3,800-square-meter SMX has three function rooms and eight meeting rooms for events.

10. The Office Tower. A nearby office tower addresses the needs of the international market, as well as the growing demands of the call center industry in the Philippines. It will also have community offices, meeting rooms and facilities.

Source: SM Prime News

Great Outdoor Fun In Boracay - Free for the Whole Family!

2013-05-16T01:26:00.000+08:00

Bask in Boracay for free with the whole family

This summer, you come to where the pleasure is – Boracay. Boracay is the perfect place to be with your family and friends Be free to enjoy an unexpected pace and rejuvenate yourself. Come to this relaxing place and taste the goodness of paradise that will keep you coming back again and again. This is I consider as a heavenly place right here on earth.

Going to the beach with glistening white, powdery sand, Boracay is a wonderful experience. There are many exciting beach games and treats that you can savor while enjoying your fun in the sun.

And more excitingly, a great event entitled “Banana Boat Great Outdoor Fun – Boracay,” which gives you and your whole family the chance to win an all-expense-paid trip for four to this fab getaway site is ongoing until May 31, 2013.

As if summer couldn’t get any hotter, here’s a fantastic family treat that will make your temperature really soar – with excitement!

Banana Boat sunscreen lotion, invites all its users and Facebook fans to join its latest promo that can take them for free to the sunny, sandy beaches of Boracay.

Joining is so easy. All Facebook fans of Banana Boat Philippines can register for the contest through the Facebook app located at https://www.facebook.com/BananaBoatPhilippines/app_622349147791423

Upload family photos that show how to have a great outdoor fun with a bottle of Banana Boat sunscreen lotion included in the shot. Put out as many photos as you like, and add some witty and creative captions to better your chances of winning.

Once these photos appear in the Banana Boat Philippines Page timeline, you must share them in your own Facebook wall.

Invite your friends to vote for any of your photos in the fanpage site. The top five entries will be short-listed and judged by Banana Boat Philippines based on the number of votes, and the winning family will get an all-expense-paid trip for four, inclusive of airfare, hotel accommodations and tour. There will also be four consolation cash prizes of P3,000 each, plus Banana Boat gift packs to all winners.

So show the world how much fun you can have with Banana Boat, and have the chance to fly for free to Boracay. With Banana Boat sunscreen lotion’s unique AvoTriplex technology, you can have much more fun under the sun as it provides longer lasting and more effective protection against the sun’s harmful rays.

Banana Boat sunscreen lotions are available in supermarkets, drugstores and health and beauty stores nationwide.

So what are you waiting for? Hurry up and join!

Promo run until May 31, 2013

For the contest registration and mechanics of the game, click for the link below:

http://apps.facebook.com/bb-fun-boracay/

Just visit www.bananaboat.com.ph and

like Facebook fanpage at www.facebook.com/BananaBoatPhilippines.

http://enjoyingwonderfulworld.blogspot.com/2013/04/great-outdoor-fun-family-trip-to-boracay.html

Introducing www.ePLUS.ph !

2013-05-15T03:35:00.000+08:00

An all new lifestyle portal is introduced today.

The portal—ePLUS.ph---will serve as a local resource for SM Cinema movie tickets, Mall of Asia Arena events, nationwide deals and lifestyle articles. The site will also be a ground-breaking resource for consumers to find high-value tickets to movies, concerts, sports, theater, arts, and live events, while serving as a timely and effective way for customers to get updated with lifestyle perks, deals and informative articles. The launch is planned in time for mid-year sale season.

With unprecedented access to a consolidated network of nationwide events from the Philippines’ ticketing leader, movies schedules from the county’s largest cinema chain, and unbeatable prices from the country’s largest mall network, ePLUS.ph will be the destination for exclusive SM Lifestyle deals.

ePLUS.ph works with SM to further deliver its commitment to offer amazing local experiences to its members.

ePLUS.ph represents a new channel to drive value for e-PLUS card members, while helping a broader market stay informed with every interesting facet of the platform. From movie and event schedule, exclusive discounts to university bulletins, and community driven forums.

The ePLUS.ph portal is just the beginning of a platform that enables Filipinos to share, and enjoy an ePLUS lifestyle.

Visit www.eplus.ph and http://youtu.be/RhpXDpEfCmg

DOTC Pursues 3-Year Program to Reduce Domestic Shipping Cost for Inclusive Growth

2013-05-15T02:09:00.001+08:00

The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) is beginning a three (3)-year program aimed at generating growth for the country’s agribusiness trade, directly benefitting workers in the agricultural and fisheries sectors across the country, in line with President Benigno S. Aquino III’s push for inclusive growth.

Last Wednesday (May 8, 2013) the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) secured the cooperation of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) on a program to pursue reforms various policy and regulatory reforms in the Philippine shipping sector in order to improve our farmers’ market access and integration by reducing the cost of domestic shipping over the next three years.

From L-R: (seated) DOTC Undersecretary for Planning Rene K. Limcaoco, DOTC Secretary Joseph Emilio Aguinaldo Abaya, IFC Resident Representative Jesse Ang; (standing) Narcisa Rivera of CIDA, MARINA Director Myrna Clemeno, PPA official Amy Aquino, and IFC Senior Program Manager Hans Schrader.

The project will involve a diagnostic review by the IFC to identify areas where pro-competitive practices will help meet these goals. The DOTC will work together with its frontline agencies, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), in reviewing the results of the study and implementing the recommendations of the IFC from 2013 to 2016.

“This partnership with the IFC is a very welcome development. It will have a major impact on our economy, especially for farmers and fisherfolk who stand to realize the most gains from our policy reforms,” said the Transport Department.

The DOTC explained further that, by reducing domestic shipping costs, the prices of commodities will also go down. According to a study prepared by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in 2005, 24.2% to 43.8% of the wholesale price of food products is on account of transport and logistics costs.

“By making it cheaper to move agricultural goods from farms to markets, the prices of these commodities will also be reduced, making them more affordable to consumers,” remarked the DOTC. “These benefits are the reason why the DOTC, MARINA, and PPA – all of whom share the President’s vision of inclusive growth – look forward to this project.”

This effort is partly funded by the Canadian International Cooperation Agency (CIDA), and will require no cost on the part of the Philippine government. It is also part of the IFC’s Philippine Agribusiness Trade Logistics program.

According to IFC Resident Representative Jesse Ang, this agreement demonstrates the IFC’s confidence in the DOTC, MARINA, and PPA’s efforts to undertake shipping and port reforms.

SM Cinema to Host the Philippine Premiere of Vin Diesel's Fast & Furious 6

2013-05-15T01:16:00.000+08:00

Fast & Furious 6 is the sixth installment in the Fast and the Furious film series. The film stars Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne Johnson, Jordana Brewster, Tyrese Gibson, Michelle Rodriguez, Sung Kang, Chris Bridges, Luke Evans, Gina Carano, and John Ortiz.

SM Cinema, the country’s home of premiere nights, will host the upcoming Fast and Furious 6 premiere which will be held at SM Mall of Asia on May 15, 2013.

The film’s lead action star, Vin Diesel, along with fellow stars Michelle Rodriguez, Gina Carano and Luke Evans, producer Neal H. Moritz, and director Justin Lin will be coming to the Philippines to be part of this exciting movie event.

Fast & Furious 6 continues in the tradition of thrilling fast‐paced car chases, action, and suspense that has made the movie franchise a worldwide sensation. Vin Diesel, Paul Walker and Dwayne Johnson lead the returning cast of all‐stars as the global blockbuster franchise built on speed races to its next continent.

Fast & Furious 6 follows a professional criminal gang led by Dominic Toretto (Diesel) who have retired following their successful heist in Fast Five (2011), but remain wanted fugitives. U.S. Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) agent Luke Hobbs (Johnson) offers to clear the group's criminal records and allow them to return home in exchange for helping him to take down a skilled mercenary organization led by Owen Shaw (Evans) and his second in command, Dominic's presumed-dead lover Letty Ortiz (Rodriguez).

The only way to stop the criminal outfit is to outmatch them at street level, so Hobbs asks Dom to assemble his elite team in London. Payment? Full pardons for all of them so they can return home and make their families whole again.

The Fast and the Furious 6 (alternatively known as Fast Six) characters.

Vin Diesel as Dominic Toretto: A street racer and fugitive

Paul Walker as Brian O'Conner: A former FBI agent turned criminal. He is in a relationship with Mia Toretto

Dwayne Johnson as Luke Hobbs: A Diplomatic Security Service agent

Jordana Brewster as Mia Toretto: Dominic's sister and the girlfriend of Brian O'Conner

Tyrese Gibson as Roman Pearce: Brian's childhood friend

Michelle Rodriguez as Letty Ortiz: Dominic's former girlfriend who was believed to be dead

Sung Kang as Han Seoul-Oh: A street racer and member of Dominic's crew

Chris Bridges as Tej Parker: Brian's and Roman's friend

Luke Evans as Owen Shaw: A former SAS Major now leading a heist gang

Gina Carano as Riley: A member of Hobbs' team

Gal Gadot as Gisele Yashar: A former Mossad agent turned professional criminal

Joe Taslim as Jah: A cold blooded killer who fights using martial arts and parkour

Clara Paget as Vegh: The character is described as a gun-slinging action woman

Elsa Pataky as Elena Neves

Rita Ora portrays the head girl of a London racing crew

Jin Au-Yeung as Jimmy

Fast & Furious 6 is a United International Pictures Release through Solar Entertainment Corporation. The film will be released in theaters across the Philippines on May 24, 2013.

“Sale-Seriously Super Sale” from May 17 to 19

2013-05-14T20:42:00.000+08:00

“Sale-Seriously Super Sale” ! This is seriously outrageous sale of phones, computer and gadgets from 25 great Tech Brands up to 70% off!

Indigo Enterprises Inc. is holding a 3-day sale of the latest gadgets, computers, and mobile phones.

Visit the “Sale-Seriously Super Sale” from May 17 to 19 at Whitespace, in Makati City and get up to 70% off on brands.

The sale is open to all major credit cards. A special offer of 0% for BPI credit cards holder.

Whitespace is located at 2314 Chino Roces Ave. ext. Makati City.

For more information, visit the Sale-riously event page on Facebook.

WD® and SanDisk Brings Fast Flash Memory Technology

2013-05-14T14:53:00.000+08:00

WD® and SanDisk team up to crate innovative solid state hybrid drives. SanDisk Brings Fast Flash Memory Technology to the World’s Thinnest 2.5-inch Solid State Hybrid Drives from WD

WD ®, a Western Digital (NASDAQ: WDC) company, and SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ: SNDK), a global leader in flash memory storage solutions, today announced that the two companies are collaborating to introduce hybrid storage devices that feature best-in-class flash memory technology from SanDisk and best-in-class hard drive technology from WD.

SanDisk is supplying a SanDisk iSSD™ storage device for the WD Black™ solid state hybrid drive (SSHD), the world’s thinnest 2.5-inch SSHD solution, which utilizes both WD proprietary hybrid technology and industry standard SATA IO technology. The SanDisk iSSD brings an elegant balance of performance, low power consumption, cost, reliability, and a compact form factor to this SSHD, which will offer ample storage to meet consumers’ growing appetite for digital content as well as flash-enabled speed, data throughput and responsiveness – all within ultra-slim form factors.

“I am delighted for SanDisk to team up with WD on these exciting new hybrid products,” said Kevin Conley, senior vice president and general manager of client storage solutions at SanDisk. “By combining SanDisk’s unparalleled flash memory expertise and technology with the hard drive know-how of WD, WD Black SSHDs offer outstanding hard drive-like capacity, and the slim form factor and the level of performance that you will only get with flash memory solutions.”

“Working with SanDisk, WD realized our vision for products that combine the best of both technologies,” said Matt Rutledge, vice president of client computing at WD. “WD’s SSHDs are a significant achievement in the continuing SSHD/flash storage revolution.”

About WD Black Solid State Hybrid Drives

WD Black SSHDs use WD hybrid technology that blends responsive, intelligent flash memory technology from SanDisk with high capacity hard drives from WD. This powerful combination greatly improves the PC user experience, enabling both high capacity and a higher level of performance than traditional hard disk drives, including increased speed, instant-on and faster application launching.

With device volume being a key concern for PC manufacturers who want to design slimmer devices, the WD Black SSHDs are designed to accommodate integration into the market’s thinnest notebooks. The WD Black 5mm SSHD offers 500GB of capacity, while utilizing almost 50 percent less volume than current standard notebook hard drives (which are approximately 9.5mm). The low-profile of the solid state hybrid drive is complemented by the extremely small form factor of the SanDisk iSSD, which is built on 19 nanometer (nm) process technology, the world's smallest and most advanced semiconductor manufacturing process. The WD Black 5mm SSHDs are shipping to OEMs. WD is also currently shipping to OEMs ultra-slim, 7mm and 9.5mm SSHDs for portable devices.

About WD

WD, a Western Digital company, is a long-time innovator and storage industry leader. As a storage technology pacesetter, the company produces reliable, high-performance hard disk drives and solid state drives. These drives are deployed by OEMs and integrators in desktop and mobile computers, enterprise computing systems, embedded systems and consumer electronics applications, as well as by the company in providing its own storage products. WD’s leading storage devices and systems, networking products, media players and software solutions empower people around the world to easily save, store, protect, share and experience their content on multiple devices. WD was established in 1970 and is headquartered in Irvine, Calif. For more information, please visit the company’s website at www.wd.com.

About SanDisk

SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ: SNDK) is a global leader in flash memory storage solutions, from research and development, product design and manufacturing to branding and distribution for commercial and retail channels. Since 1988, SanDisk's innovations in flash memory and storage system technologies have provided customers with new and transformational digital experiences. SanDisk's diverse product portfolio includes flash memory cards and embedded solutions used in smart phones, tablets, digital cameras, camcorders, digital media players and other consumer electronic devices, as well as USB flash drives and solid state drives (SSD) for the computing market. SanDisk's products are used by consumers and enterprise customers around the world.

SanDisk is a Silicon Valley-based S&P 500 and Fortune 500 company, with more than half its sales outside the United States. For more information, visit www.sandisk.com.

Sex and the City Actress Sarah Jessica Parker to open SM Store at SM Aura Premier

2013-05-14T14:32:00.000+08:00

It's official! SARAH JESSICA PARKER will open The SM Store 'Aura'!

This is the fashion event of the year! “Sex & The City” star one of the famous international actress and style icons, Sarah Jessica Parker will visit the Philippines for the opening of SM store Aura in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. The SM Aura Premier shopping mall is part of the Bonifacio Civic Center.

She is best known for her leading role as Carrie Bradshaw on the HBO television series Sex and the City (1998–2004), for which she won four Golden Globe Awards, three Screen Actors Guild Awards, and two Emmy Awards. She played the same role in the 2008 feature film based on the show, Sex and the City: The Movie, and in its sequel, Sex and the City 2, which opened last May 26, 2010.

Parker has also appeared in many other films. She will also appear in the season finale of the US television show "Glee" along with AI Jessica Sanchez. Parker also is a member of the Board of Directors for the New York City Ballet and is a UNICEF ambassador.

She has also become the face of many of the world's biggest fashion brands through her work in a variety of advertising campaigns. Parker hosted the MTV Movie Awards year 2000, appearing in fourteen different outfits during the show.

For shoppers, the summer heat continues to rise as Sarah Jessica Parker hits one of the newest malls in town. Save the date! Meet Sarah Jessica Parker at the opening of The SM Store at SM Aura Premier on May 16, 2013.

For more promos and updates, join The SM Store online community:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheSMStore

Twitter: http://twitter.com/thesmstore

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/thesmstore

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/TheSMStore

Re-tweet and follow #SarahJParkerLoveToShopSMStore

Rico Blanco Live on June 12

2013-05-13T03:55:00.000+08:00

Rico Blanco, one of the hottest and most sought after OPM artists today, is set to hold his first ever solo concert !

Catch him live at the Music Museum on Philippine Independence Day, June 12, 2013, and be a part of music history. It’s been five years since this former Rivermaya frontman struck out on his own, and two solo albums later (Your Universe and last year’s Galactik Fiestamatik), he’s hotter than ever and ready to rock the stage in his first full-length solo concert!

A consistent chart-topper, expect Blanco to perform his latest hits, “Amats,” “Burado,” and “Lipat Bahay,” and OPM staples “Your Universe,” “Antukin,” “Posible,” and “Yugto.” Sing along to Blanco-penned Rivermaya favorites “214,” “You’ll Be Safe Here,” “Umaaraw, Umuulan”, “Elesi” and “Awit ng Kabataan” as he performs his compositions as his alter ego Fiesto Bandido in Galactik Fiestamatik style!

Always pushing the musical envelope, this rock chameleon promises a fun, edgy, electrifying performance together with special guests. It’s always a party when Blanco hits the stage—so don’t miss the fiesta!

Rico Blanco Live! is brought to you by Warner Music Philippines, and presented by Smart Communications.

Ticket prices are at Php1,300 (VIP), Php 1,000 (Orchestra), and Php 700 (Balcony).

Tickets are available at smtickets.com (470-2222),

ticketworld.com.ph (891-9999) and

musicmuseum.com.ph (721-6726).

For more information, please visit www.facebook.com/ricoblancomusic

Skylight Films presents Bromance: My Brother’s Romance with Zanjoe Marudo

2013-05-13T01:58:00.001+08:00

Skylight films swings to comedy for the first time with Bromance: My Brother's Romance.

Skylight Films has always been known for its edgy, out-of-the-box movies. This is their first crack at the comedy genre after two successful horror-suspense thrillers, Corazon: Ang Unang Aswang and Amorosa.

After two successful horror films, Skylight Films brings moviegoers another novel movie experience with Bromance: My Brother’s Romance. This will be shown on May 15, 2013.

This is directed by box-office comedy director Wenn Deramas, Bromance: My Brother’s Romance is also the first time that hunky actor Zanjoe Marudo takes on a lead part and dual role as twins—one of whom is a tough-talking, macho guy and the other, gay.

The story of Bromance:

My Brother’s Romance revolves around the lives of twins Brando and Brandy. Because Brando has problems accepting his twin’s being gay, he decides to make a life of his own, put up an auto repair business and become a mechanic. Meanwhile, Brandy sets out on a path of his own and becomes a successful interior designer.

The twins continue on separate paths until one day, their mother begs them to set aside their differences and reconcile. So Brandy sets off to look for his brother but meets an unfortunate accident that renders him unconscious. While Brandy is in a coma, Brando learns that just before the accident happened, his brother was in the final stages of negotiating a multi-million peso design deal with a client.

Afraid that they would lose everything with Brandy in a coma, Brando decides to pull a twin switch and pose as his gay brother. So the former straight, tough-talking and macho Brando turns into the gay Brandy!

While posing as his gay twin, Brando realizes that not only will this deal solve all of his financial problems, it also gives him a chance to set things right with Erika (Cristine Reyes), Brandy’s good

friend that he used to have a crush on.

Now that the world has turned upside-down—with Brando assuming Brandy’s happy and gay personality—is there any hope that life will go back to normal for the twins? Will Brandy wake up in time, find out the switch his twin pulled and save everything?

The answers are in Bromance: My Brother’s Romance, which hits theatres on May 15. This gender-bending comedy also features “Karakaraka”, the single from Vice Ganda’s new dance album, as its theme song.

Also in the cast of Bromance: My Brother’s Romance are Arlene Muhlach, Joy Viado, Manuel Chua, Boom Labrusca, Joey Paras, Lassy, Nikki Valdez, Maricar De Mesa, Abbie Bautista, Carlo Romero and Jeff Luna.

More Photos of Bromance Press Conference @ Enjoying Wonderful World Facebook Fanpage,

Check out more updates on https://www.facebook.com/BromanceMovie

Rewarding moms with a guide to making Chrome as their virtual personal assistant

2013-05-12T04:03:00.000+08:00

Phase 1: Setup for success

Like any new hire, your new Chrome PA will need a little setting up. Once you’ve logged into your Google Account, it will only take a few minutes to introduce Chrome to all your devices and have them working as a dream team.

Step 1: Install and sign in to Chrome

By installing Chrome for free on your phone and other devices it can be the “glue” that brings your digital life together. Once installed, go to the Chrome menu icon and select “sign into Chrome”. By signing into Chrome, it will now be able to remember your preferences like bookmarks and themes so you don’t have to login in multiple times or look up pages more than once — saving your precious time.

Step 2: Synchronise and streamline

Now that you have Chrome on your devices and you’re signed in, you can make moving between your phone, computer and tablet a seamless experience by syncing your tabs across your devices. This means you’ll be able to access whatever you were running on your home computer, office computer or tablet, on your Android smartphone or iPhone. By enabling bookmark sync, so you don’t need to manually recreate bookmarks each time you switch computers — just fire up Chrome, log-in, and your bookmarks will appear.

Step 3: Install your everyday apps and extensions

Now that your devices are linked, make sure you’ve got all the apps you need every day right at your fingertips. In the Chrome Web Store you can find thousands of apps including the Google Maps, Drive, Calendar, Gmail, Google+ and YouTube. Once installed you’ll be able to click on the icon and Chrome will open the site page in a special, non-tabbed window designed to feel just like the computer applications you’re used to. You can also use extensions to add features and personalize your browser and remove everything else that just gets in the way.

Phase 2: Set your Chrome Personal Assistant to work!

Now you’ve got apps and extensions installed and your devices linked, Chrome is set up like a digital handbag containing everything you need.

Step 4: Plan your day in the morning and take it all with you

In the morning, plan your day on your laptop or tablet. Look up that new daycare location on Google Maps, schedule school pick-ups with your partner with shared Google calendars, start a guestlist for your weekend party in Drive and share it with your friends, and look up recipes for tonight’s dinner. Even if you get interrupted, whatever you’ve started you’ll be able to pick up again on your mobile as you take your day and your plans with you in Chrome.

Step 5: Stay connected on the go

Using your phone as a mini-computer 'on-the-go', everything you planned in the morning is waiting in Chrome for you. Follow the directions you’ve already looked up in Google Maps while on the road. Can’t remember what you decided to cook for dinner? No problem, open up that recipe again from your browser directly from the shopping aisle. Just found out that you have friends from interstate in town this weekend? Pop them on the guest list with your Drive mobile app. Spotted a great article in (insert) while on the train? Use an extension like Pocket to save it and read later.

Step 6: Communicate and share with the people who matter most

Now that Chrome has got your digital life in order, why not take advantage of your additional time to communicate with the people who matter most in your life? If your kids don’t get to visit their grandparents as much as you’d like, why not set up a Hangout between them? Start a Hangout from your computer via your Google+ page, or your phone/tablet via the Google+ mobile app. You can also start a Hangout within your Gchat windows.

Instant upload: any photos you take on your mobile device will be automagically backed up in the cloud — no need for uploading or wires. Make sure your device has Instant Upload enabled for this feature, and any photos you take will be saved in the Instant Uploads album in Google+ (they are all private until you decide to share them).

Events: Are you throwing a birthday party for one of your kids? An easy way to manage sending out invitations is by Google+ Events. Events are synced with invitees’ Google Calendars, and with Party Mode, guests can share photos in real time to the same photo album.

About Google Inc.

Google's innovative search technologies connect millions of people around the world with information every day. Founded in 1998 by Stanford Ph.D . students Larry Page and Sergey Brin, Google today is a top web property in all major global markets. Google's targeted advertising program provides businesses of all sizes with measurable results, while enhancing the overall web experience for users. Google is headquartered in Silicon Valley with offices throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia. For more information, visit www.google.com.ph

Follow Google Philippines on Google+ (Google Philippines) and Twitter: @googleph.

Sam Concepcion is the newest MYX VJ

2013-05-12T02:17:00.000+08:00

There seems to be nothing that Sam Concepcion could not do. He won a singing contest, topbilled numerous musical theater shows, starred in TV and movie projects – all these earned him adulation from fans. Now, he dabbles into a new field by being the newest MYX VJ.

With his vast exposure in the music scene, Sam is definitely a shoo-in for the job. Sam is one of the homegrown artists of Universal Records, his record label for the past eight years. Sam has released three albums, which spawned hits like Forever Young, Even If, Happy, Kung Fu Fighting, Miss You, and Someone.

When asked how he feels about his new assignment, Sam quips, “this is entirely different from what I do usually being a singer. I only get to do these things when MYX asks me to be Celebrity MYX VJ, but now I get to do this for a longer time. It is exciting for me because, really, my core is music. I am glad that I was given this chance.”

With his humor and gift of gab, Sam intends to reach out to the younger market and encourage them to support the music industry, most especially OPM.

Sam is set to release his fourth album under Universal Records, which promises to present the new SAM.

You can watch Sam on MYX in the Wednesday edition of MYX Daily Top Ten and episodes of MYX Take 5, Pop MYX, Pinoy MYX, and My MYX.

A simple step-by-step guide on how to vote this May 13, 2013

2013-05-12T00:26:00.000+08:00

INFOGRAPHIC: How to vote on May 13

Involving young and old people in election-related learning, activities and discussion can have an impact on the person’s household and communities, increasing the likelihood that others in the household and communities will vote. Be wise and be informed.

This May 13, 2013 for all voters, this is a simple step-by-step guide on how to vote.

Visit abs-cbnnews.com for more information and updates.
Source: INFOGRAPHIC BY FRANCIN CRUZ

A special treat for mom from Philips

2013-05-11T22:45:00.000+08:00

Philips sends out Mother’s Day love with these gift ideas

Moms are probably the most hard-working, dedicated, and selfless people. You can be sure that your mom would always put you first above anything, and that she has your best interests at heart.

This Mother’s Day, return some of the love she has given you by planning a special day for her. Pamper her, give her the royal treatment, take her out and make her feel extra special with these Mother's Day gift ideas courtesy of Philips.

A healthier diet, with the Philips Avance Juicer

Help Mom stay fit and strong by providing her with a healthier way to prepare juices. She deserves nothing but fresh and pure fruit juices, made with a juicer that does not require pre-cutting or peeling, so she can get every bit of nutrient she needs.

The Avance Juicer features an extra large feeding tube and a powerful 800W motor, so you can put in whole fruits and vegetables — such as apples, pears and carrots — whole, without the need for pre-cutting. Easy to assemble, use and clean, the Avance Juicer produces 10% more juice compared to other juicers — just what mom needs to stay healthy.

A radiant glow, with the Philips ActiveCare Hair Dryer

Moms are always beautiful, inside and out. But there's no harm in making her bloom even more. Help her get a makeover right at home with the Philips ActiveCare Hair Dryer.

The ActiveCare Hair Dryer HP8260 lessens hair damage and overheating with an Even Heat Distribution technology. This allows the dryer to use an air outlet that ensures heat is always distributed very evenly — even at high temperatures — to prevent damaging hot spots. ThermoProtect temperature provides optimal drying temperature, while a volume diffuser enhances volume for bouncy hairstyles. Mom can also achieve shiny and frizz-free hair with ion conditioning, where charged negative ions eliminate static hair, condition the hair, and smooth down the hair cuticles.

The ActiveCare Hair Dryer will make mom look radiant when she steps out with you for dinner on Mother’s Day, and will keep her looking beautiful everyday even when she’s too busy to visit the salon.

A healthy smile, with the Philips FlexCare Plus

Actions speak louder than words. And nothing says it better than a flash of mom’s healthy pearly whites thanks to the Philips FlexCare Plus toothbrush.

Help mom achieve whiter teeth with the Philips FlexCare Plus equipped with its own patented sonic technology that helps improve gum health in just two weeks. It also provides superior cleaning action by gently and effectively reaching deep between teeth and along the gum line. If mom is new to the world of electronic toothbrushes, the Philips FlexCare Plus also includes an easy start program to help in acclimating mom to the Sonicare experience.

For all the sacrifices and unconditional love that your mom has been giving you all these years, she deserves nothing short of the best. Show her your appreciation and gratitude with these simple presents, and let her know that you love her too, no matter what.

Happy Mother's Day to all moms!

Get a chance to watch Beyonce live!

2013-05-11T04:04:00.000+08:00

“Globe Fly Away Promo: Beyonce” is a once in a lifetime chance to catch Beyonce Knowles ultimately back to run the world and to strut her fierceness as Queen B with her new world tour concert.

A diva will be reborn again! Beyonce is ready to strut her new self this coming July!

Over a million of Beyonce fans from over two continents have already signed up to witness the world tour concert entitled “The Mrs. Carter World Tour” which has kicked off in Europe. Sasha Fierce, together with his powerful smash hits, is set to take the stage on the 1^st of July at the Staples Center, Los Angeles.

The Mrs. Carter World Tour show is the fourth concert of Sasha “Beyonce” Fierce that showcases and epitomizes what a true diva is. The concert is all about defining the legacy of what she has contributed to the music industry. Big preparations have been made from choreography to her outfit changes, the set changes, pyrotechnics and above all, the showmanship of the one and only diva. She tops it all with her tremendous and show-stopping moments in her performances that make her fans clamor for more.

The World Tour has already been in full swing and has been bringing jaw-dropping performance that indubitably brought her fans back on track once more. “When I leave this world, I’ll leave no regrets. Leave something to remember, so they won’t forget I was here,” says Beyonce in one of her lyrics.

This coming April, Globe brings you a complete one-of-a-kind experience to see Sasha Fierce live in Los Angeles California.

All GHP Prepaid, Postpaid and TM subscribers can get a chance to win a trip for 2 to Los Angeles, CA, USA to watch Beyonce Knowles’ concert in Staples Center, LA on July 1, 2013. The lucky winner will also get hotel accommodations (3 days, 2 nights) as well as pocket money (transportation, meals, airport fees, etc).

To join, Globe subscribers can text the following keywords: BEYONBCE, BYC, BLOVE, SASHA to 2346. Promo period runs from April 29, 2013 to June 14, 2013 from 7am to 9pm daily.

Grand Draw will be on June 18, 2013.

Those who join can also get the chance to win instant load. Postpaid subscribers can get a chance to win iPod shuffles (4GB) exclusive to them. Exciting isn’t it? What are you waiting for now? Join the promo NOW!

SM Bowling Center Offers Full Entertainment in the South

2013-05-11T03:20:00.000+08:00

I love and enjoy the wonderful world of bowling. I have been doing bowling in SM North EDSA. There are bowling centers that provide a fun and entertaining bowling experience for all ages and abilities. Family, friends, work teams bowling seems like a perfect way to treat everyone, to have fun.

SM Bowling Center opens yet another branch at SM Southmall in Las Pinas City that boasts of fully-automated and state-of-the-art bowling facilities and gaming areas, aiming to provide people in the south with more options for quality entertainment.

The new Bowling Center offers 14 fully-automated and synthetic bowling lanes, 12 billiard tables, 20 PS3 Gaming stations, Kinect Consoles, 10 Arcade machines, and Videoke rooms.

SM Southmall Bowling Center is a one-stop-entertainment hub that offers total recreation and fun experience to family and friends. It is onveniently located across the basement carpark.

Bonifacio M. Solis, Senior Operations Manager of SM Bowling Center, said that it’s the ideal place for bonding all year round. And that is whether you’re a top-class bowler, a newbie at the lanes, a billiards enthusiast, or a hardcore gamer.

SM Bowling Center operates five branches in key cities of the Metro: SM Mall of Asia, SM North EDSA, SM Southmall, SM City Fairview, SM Center Valenzuela, and two in the prime cities of the south—SM City Cebu and SM Lanang.