AnYtHinG gOeS

Iza, Nikki chosen as Uniqlo endorsers

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Fri, 18 May 2012 05:48:00 +0000

(L-R) Chris Tiu, Iza Calzado, Nikki Gil and Chito Miranda are the Filipino endorsers of Japanese clothing brand Uniqlo. Photo from Uniqlo's Facebook page

MANILA, Philippines -- (UPDATED) Fast Retailing Philippines Inc. has chosen Filipino celebrities to endorse the Japanese fashion brand Uniqlo, which is opening its first store in the Philippines next month.

On Wednesday night, Uniqlo revealed its "Philippine cast" composed of Kapamilya actresses Iza Calzado and Nikki Gil, basketball player and TV host Chris Tiu, and Parokya ni Edgar vocalist Chito Miranda at a party at the InterContinental Hotel in Makati City.

The celebrities will be seen in advertisements ahead of the June 15 opening of the Uniqlo store at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

"I never thought they would get endorsers for Manila, that's why it was such a shock for me," Calzado said.

"I realized it was the real thing when the contract came. Of course, I'm very honored and privileged to endorse such a trusted brand, and to be among the first to represent it here in the Philippines, it's a really great honor," Gil added.

Tiu, meanwhile, said on Twitter: "Still feeling high from last night's Uniqlo launch party. Another pictorial today."

Uniqlo said it believes the four Filipino celebrities exemplify the brand's "made for all" philosophy.

Fast Retailing Philippines Inc. is a joint venture between SM Retail Inc. and Japan's Fast Retailing Co., the world’s fourth largest apparel retail firm.

Uniqlo has been coming up with several promotional activities to increase awareness of the brand, including setting up an activity wall at the SM Mall of Asia.

New book remembers fall of Corregidor

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Wed, 09 May 2012 11:55:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines – The son of a World War II veteran who served in the Philippines has written a book recalling his father’s experiences during the fall of Corregidor.
“Honor Courage Faith: A Corregidor Story” by Steve Kwiecinski tells the story of Staff Sgt. Walter Kwiecinski, an American soldier who became a prisoner of war in the Philippines.
The elder Kwiecinski was one of Corregidor's defenders, manning the last 12-inch mortar firing on Battery Way. After the fall of Corregidor 70 years ago, the US and Filipino soldiers on guard were taken captive by invading Japan forces. The Japanese rounded up their prisoners on the beach and were taken to various prison camps in Bilibid, Camp O'Donnell ad Nueva Ecija.
The war veteran told his son about his ordeal and Steve eventually visited the Philippines and retraces his father's journey through the prison camps of Bataan and Corregidor, uncovering a remarkable story of courage, faith and patriotism of young Americans facing the perils of war.
In June last year, Steve led five US congressmen, including Democrat Russ Carnanhan, on a tour of Corregidor, as part of a recess study tour of the Philippines as well as of Turkey and Iraq. Carnaham later co-sponsored of US House Resolution 333, which honors those veterans who fought on Corregidor as well as throughout the Pacific.
Vivid recollection
Walter Kwiecinski's recollections are vivid and full of detail. In one suspenseful episode, he recounts a raid by the enemy:
"When I came to Corregidor from Bataan, I was staying in a tunnel up on 'Topside'. I used (a friend's) bunk… but a sergeant said " you can't sleep here anymore…There's been some looting.
“One day…we were looking at a picture in a Popular Mechanics (magazine). We were looking at the car (in the picture) and whoosh, oh, shells were hitting the side of the building and blasting off… but one of the shells went through a window on this side. It just happened to pass through… and wham! When we looked at the bunk, the mattress … just fell apart. If I had been on (the bed) you know what would have happened. Because I couldn't stay on that bunk, I lived through it. There
“When that thing went off... you could hear some of the soldiers (screaming). There were five Filipino mess boys killed. A couple of Americans were injured. That put the fear of God in me. Before that, I wasn't afraid of the shells. From then on, boy, I was really afraid of them."
The defense of Corregidor is considered “the last heroic stand” of the battle for the Philippines in 1942 and the worst military defeat experienced by the US.
“Honor Courage Faith: A Corregidor Story” is now available at all National Book Store branches.

Quiambao apologizes over gay comments

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 11:48:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – Former beauty queen Miriam Quiambao apologized to the the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community on Sunday after a Twitter war erupted over her comments about homosexuality.

"I'm sorry LGBT. Perhaps I was too harsh with the words I used. Will do my best to be more sensitive. #respect #nobodysperfect," she said late on Sunday in her official Twitter.

Quiambao found herself in the hot seat after she aired her opinions about the LGBT community on the Saturday episode of “The Bottomline.”

Quiambao, who was among the guest panelists on the Boy Abunda-hosted program, gave her take on the issue of religion and its relationship with LGBTs.

“I’m not a pastor, I’m definitely not an expert but the way I understand it is homosexuality is not the one that makes you a sinner. Actually, sexual immorality is what makes you a sinner,” Quiambao said.

She further elaborated this view in her Twitter account, saying it should be the sin that should be hated and not the sinner.

“Hate the sin. Love the sinner. We have all sinned... Forgiveness comes from God. Grace comes to those who believe. Peace,” she tweeted.

“Homosexuality is not a sin but it is a lie from the devil. Do not be deceived. God loves gays and wants them to know the truth,” she added.

This, however, drew a lot of negative reactions from netizens.

“Most, if not all, homosexuals know wrong from right. So don't say that we are gay because the devil dictated it to us,” said JoiJoifulness.

As for MOSHreyes, he said: “Wow I didn't think @miriamq is a homophobe! She thinks were blinded by the truth. You're the one who's blinded gurl welcome to the 21st century!”

Twitter user @dbostik also said: “@miriamq I've been trying to come into terms with my religion and now I feel like I'm back to square one since I look up to you. NEVERMIND!”

“After watching "Bottomline" I feel sorry for you @miriamq. Alamin mo muna ang at tama at totoo bago ka manghusga ng buhay ng iba,” @Homerspirit posted.

While several netizens don’t agree with what Quiambao said, there were also a number of people on Twitter who were supportive of the beauty queen.

Twitter user @terriyaKBoy said: “@miriamq is one hot topic in the gay world right now. Simmer down now, Gurlzzz! She's entitled to her own opinion/say.”

@tjbrewed, on the other hand, said “Im so happy to see @miriamq in #Bottomline last nyt. Ppl will say 'don't bring religion,' but wer not bringing any religion but Christ alone.”

As for @samuraix23, he said: “@miriamq just finished watching Bottomline about LGBT. Kudos for standing up for the Truth! May God continue to bless u!”

‘Not against LGBT’

At the end of the show, Quiambao stressed that she is not against LGBTs because everyone is equal in the eyes of God.

“God made us all for a purpose. I don’t understand why God made him that way. I feel though that in my knowledge of God, God never makes mistakes and He is not a liar. So however He made him, that’s who he really is,” she said.

“However, because God has allowed this to happen in his life, perhaps there is a purpose and at the end of the day, he will be the one to face God,” Quiambao added.

Quiambao also said she never meant to offend anyone with her tweets.

“No offense to the LGBT but the Truth is the Truth that comes from God. Take it or leave it. We will all face the judgement seat of God,” she said.

“Mahal ko ang LGBT. That's why I am sharing with you the truth. If you are not ready for it, please don't shoot me. I am just a messenger,” explained the beauty queen.

Modern Etiquette: Dealing with Annoying Co-Workers

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 23:23:00 +0000

The Know-it-All. Negative Nancy. Larry Loud-Talker. The Over-Sharer. The workplace is filled with all kinds of personalities, each with their own unique (and sometimes annoying) habits.

While you can't choose your co-workers, you can choose how you handle their annoying behavior. Your best approach will largely depend upon your circumstances, and the level of annoyance.

For example, if your co-worker's habit hampers your ability to do your job, you'll need to take care of the problem even if it means going to your supervisor. However, filing even a "verbal" complaint should always be your last-resort. Meanwhile, you may want to look at your own workplace behavior which, unknowingly, may be offensive to others.

Tips for Resolving Conflict

Remove yourself from the situation: If you find yourself focusing more on your co-worker's annoyance than the work in front of you, take a break. Even a few minutes in a restroom or break room will clear your head and calm your nerves.

Find an outlet for your frustration: A 20-minute power walk or "vent-session" with a trusted friend is another option. Once you've released the built-up tension you'll find you have a new perspective on the situation.

Find your focus: If deadlines prevent you from removing yourself from the situation, create a place of calm in your own mind. Any technique that helps you create a "clear headspace" will provide a sense of control and calm. Try noise-canceling ear-buds or mentally repeat a mantra, like "focus" in your mind.

Go to the Source: If all your attempts fail and your work is still suffering be respectful and pay your co-worker the courtesy of addressing them directly. Explain the problem (e.g., it's hard for me to concentrate) and, together, find a solution that works for the both of you.

Last resort: If the problem persists you have no choice but to bring your concern to a supervisor. Who knows, you may not be the only one in the office having a problem with this co-worker.

Taboo Workplace Topics

Even the most friendly workplace conversation can sour when people discuss ‘taboo topics.' To avoid office friction, don't brooch the following ‘hot topics;' and if raised by co-workers opt-out of the conversation.

Salary: Your salary was determined by you and your employer. It's proprietary information and should stay that way.

Medical Woes: Only you and your family care about your medical problems. Keep your aches and pains to yourself.

Relationship Problems: Failed romances and other relationship issues belong in your personal life, not in your professional life. No exceptions!

Sex, Religion Politics: These ‘big three' hot button topics are non-negotiable. They are called hot button topics because they are polarizing and run the risk of alienating, even insulting, colleagues. Discussing sex, religion and politics is always off-limits and inappropriate in the workplace.

Examine Your Own Behavior

As you go about your workday pay attention to your interactions with others. Do you interrupt colleagues while they're working or engaged in conversation with others? Do you discuss business matters with co-workers or do you bring up personal issues, about yourself and others? Do you complain about problems in the workplace but fail to offer any viable solutions?

Remember: It's always easier to find fault with others than it is to see our own problems.

Reinventing the barong Tagalog

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 21:47:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines’ barong Tagalog has certainly gone a long way since it was popularized as formal wear by late President Ramon Magsaysay during the 1950s.

The embroidered garment usually made of piña, jusi or banana fabric has been reinvented countless times, as seen on runways both here and abroad.

The trend seems to have been picked up by international fashion houses as well. Two items in Valentino’s ready-to-wear spring/summer 2012 collection, for instance, had a striking resemblance to the Philippine garment.

But instead of men, women donned the belted barong, which were paired with black lace skirts.

This item in Valentino’s ready-to-wear spring/summer 2012 collection had a striking resemblance to the barong Tagalog. Photo from www.valentino.com

Several Filipinos were quick to notice the similarities between Valentino’s pieces and the country’s very own barong. Among them is Ben Chan, the big boss of popular local clothing brand Bench.

“Valentino goes Filipiniana. Saw this at Valentino shop in Milan. Bravo Pilipino!” Chan said on Twitter.

Stylist Ferdi Salvador, for his part, said: “Here’s the barong in another stylized version. It’s so hot in the US. Valentino has two barongs in the current collection.”

Barong – Hollywood style

Jeremy Renner wearing a barong with a pair of cargo pants

If the Valentino fashion house paired the barong with a lace skirt, a Hollywood actor was brave enough to wear it with fatigue cargo pants in front of the Philippine President.

Last February, “The Bourne Legacy” star Jeremy Renner gave his twist to the country’s national costume during a courtesy call on President Benigno Aquino III in Malacañang.

Renner and his co-stars were in the Philippines to shoot some scenes for the movie, which is the fourth installment of the “Bourne” film series.

The actor’s outfit became the talk of the town after a photo of him during the courtesy call was posted in social networking sites.

Black barong

Diether Ocampo wearing a black barong

While some designers played with the barong’s style and suggested new ways to wear it, others experimented with the garment’s color.

Instead of the usual cream or white, the embroidered garment came in different shades, mostly black, in a fashion show held by Metro magazine last year.

Local celebrities like Diether Ocampo strutted down the runway in a black Barong matched with black pants and leather shoes.

The event, dubbed “Metrowear Filipiniana,” was an attempt at reinterpreting traditional Filipino wear such as the barong and the terno, which is primarily composed of a blouse and a long skirt.

About a hundred local designers participated in the event.

Statement barong

Others, meanwhile, used the barong to make a political statement.

Teddy Casiño's FOI-inspired barong

Bayan Muna party-list Rep. Teddy Casiño, for instance, turned to multi-awarded designer Edgar San Diego to create a “statement barong” which represents one of his pet advocacies, the Freedom of Information Bill.

Embroidered on his beige barong was a statement calling for the immediate passage of the measure.

President Aquino, meanwhile, had designer JC Buendia create a barong that bears the iconic yellow ribbon, which is closely associated with his parents and his presidential campaign.

He wore it when he was proclaimed the country’s 15th chief executive in 2010.

Tyra Banks wears Rajo Laurel creation

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 01:43:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines – Former supermodel and “America’s Next Top Model” host Tyra Banks seems to have taken a liking for Filipino creations.

A month after she got a best-dressed nod at the 4th Annual Blossom Ball for her Francis Libiran gown, Banks was seen wearing a beige and black dress by another Filipino designer, Rajo Laurel.

In his blog on fashion website StyleBible, Laurel said Banks wore his creation to one of the final episodes of “America’s Next Top Model.”

“I just saw Tyra Banks in my gown! I am shaking like a leaf as I type this as this feels like a dream! It’s almost surreal! I mean, I just watch the woman on TV and now she is wearing my work!” the Filipino fashion designer wrote.

“I am so grateful to my cousin Mike Carandang for pushing me and urging me and making all this happen! I am so very very very very grateful!”

Laurel added that they will continue to work hard to “make Philippine fashion world-class.”

After his blog post, Laurel received several congratulatory messages from his friends and supporters.

Among them is local celebrity chef Sharwin Tee, who said on Twitter: “I think Tyra Banks wearing Rajo Laurel is like Wolfgang Puck throwing a party catered by a Filipino chef.”

Laurel, one of the country’s most well-known designers, earlier said that he wants to make clothes for half-Filipina contestant Jessica Sanchez of the hit US talent search “American Idol.”

Sanchez told him it would be “cool” if Laurel could dress her up.

More int’l stars wear Pinoy creations

Aside from Libiran and Laurel, several Filipino designers have had their gowns and accessories worn by some of the world’s most famous personalities.

Last February, American pop singer Katy Perry wore the Shrine handring by designer Joyce Makitalo at the 2012 Inaugural National Football League Honors and pre-Super Bowl XLVI party in Indianapolis.

During the Grammy Awards, singer Kelly Price wore a sparkly rose-colored gown by Oliver Tolentino. The Filipino designer also dressed up “The Voice” judge Cee Lo Green.

Monique Lhullier, meanwhile, created the gown of Hillary Scott of the country group Lady Antebellum during the Grammys.

Morena cover girls make Wilma Doesnt proud

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 23:18:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines – Following a botched cover appearance for a fashion magazine allegedly because of her dark skin, celebrity model Wilma Doesnt said she is happy that morena beauties are now finally being “embraced” by media.

Celebrity model Wilma Doesnt during a press conference
for her Playboy Philippines cover

Doesnt, who appears topless on the April 2012 cover of Playboy magazine in the Philippines, recounted her brush with a publication which she claimed pulled her planned appearance on its cover because of her complexion.

“Before it happened sa isang magazine cover. Nalungkot ako kasi nabiktima rin ako nung magazine na ‘yon before,” Doesnt said during a press conference for her Playboy appearance.

“Pinag-shoot nila ako – isang maputi, isang maitim. Tapos ang katwiran nila, baka raw ‘di mabili ‘yung [issue] na ako ‘yung cover because I am dark.”

Her failed appearance on the magazine affected her confidence as a model, Doesnt admitted, but this didn't stop her from pursuing her goals.

“Hindi masama ‘yung loob ko, kasi point of view nila ‘yun. ‘Yun lang, ‘yung feeling ko, wala pala akong market sa mga ganitong klaseng magazine. So ‘yun lang ‘yung naging feeling ko. Hindi naman nasiraan ‘yung loob ko na ipagpatuloy kung anuman ‘yung gusto ko mangyari sa buhay ko,” she said.

“That’s why nung nag-offer ang Playboy sa ’kin, ‘Huh, are you serious? Cover?’”

'Space' for dark-skinned beauties

Doesnt, who is now a mother of two, said the offer came at an opportune time.

She said she has, more than ever, become confident of her self-image.

“Una kasi na-lessen na ‘yung insecurities ko, mas mature na ako, mas komportable na ko sa katawan ko, tapos the fact na komportable rin ako sa photographer. ‘Yun ‘yung mga factors na nakatulong kung bakit lumabas siya ng ganito kaganda,” the model said.

Morena beauties recently graced covers of magazines, among them TV host Bianca Gonzalez and actress Iza Calzado for Esquire, and Lovi Poe for FHM.

Asked about these covers, Doesnt said: “I am very proud. At least ngayon ine-embrace na talaga ng mga magazines kahit na dark-skinned ka. Basta alam mo lang ang mga dapat mo gawin at ang limitasyon mo, you are welcome."

“So please ha, hindi lang mapuputi ang maganda i-cover sa magazine. ‘Yung mga maiitim din may space!”

Fast facts about Bb. Pilipinas 2012 Janine Tugonon

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 23:37:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines – (2nd UPDATE) Binibining Pilipinas 2012 candidate No. 18 Janine Tugonon has a shot at being crowned the world’s most beautiful woman as she represents the Philippines in this year’s Miss Universe pageant.

Tugonon has big shoes to fill, following the runner-up finishes of her predecessors in the past two Miss Universe pageants – Shamcey Supsup won third runner-up in last year’s competition, while Venus Raj placed fourth-runner up in 2010.

Here are some fast facts about Tugonon:

Tugonon is 22 years old and hails from Balanga, Bataan.
During the pageant’s question and answer portion, judge Jose Manuel Romualdez asked Tugonon the question: “Many women nowadays forego a happy family life for a successful career. How do you feel about this?” Tugonon replied: “I believe that women have the right to choose between what they want. But for me, you’ll have to go for what God has called you to do, whatever it is, between the two. You must do what your purpose is in this world. Just have a child-like faith and mature obedience, and everything will go smooth.”
Tugonon is no stranger to the Binibining Pilipinas pageant. She placed first runner-up in last year’s competition, which was won by Supsup. Below is a video of Tugonon during the question and answer portion of Binibining Pilipinas 2011 which was posted on YouTube.

Tugonon admitted that her family had mixed views on her decision to join the Binibining Pilipinas pageant for the second time. “Sobrang saya ko kasi joining again really is a big discussion in our family. Maraming may ayaw, pero meron ding may gusto. Talagang dito napatunayan ko na when God really plans something for you, it really happens,” she told ABS-CBN News. “Sobrang saya at the same time nervous din kasi Shamcey and Venus made it sa Miss Universe.”
Tugonon is a pharmacy graduate of the University of Santo Tomas. She won in beauty pageants held in UST, such as Miss Thomasian Personality in 2010 and Miss Pharmacy in 2009.
According to her Facebook fan page, Tugonon graduated cum laude from UST. It added that the beauty queen was a consistent honor student and is into ballet.
Hours after the pageant, Tugonon attributed her victory to God. “My Savior fought and won the battle for me,” she said on Twitter. The beauty queen also turned to the microblogging site to thank her friends, fans and supporters.

The Philippines is still hoping to produce its third Miss Universe winner, with the first two being Gloria Diaz and Margie Moran.

Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. chairperson Stella Marquez Araneta said the Philippines is slowly reclaiming its “lofty stature as the beauty capital of Asia.”

“This batch is also considered as one of the most accomplished. I guess the back-to-back performances of Venus Raj and Shamcey Supsup really upped the ante for Filipino beauty pageants,” Araneta said.

This year’s Binibining Pilipinas candidates were composed of registered nurses, doctors, law graduates, and entrepreneurs, among others.

Janice recounts 'tough love' for son Luigi

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 10:00:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines -- Actress-host Janice de Belen on Saturday was moved to tears moments after the interview of her son Luigi was aired on entertainment talk show "Showbiz Inside Report."

Luigi, who is de Belen's son with actor Aga Muhlach, in his interview said he wants to prove his parents wrong and show that he can be a good father. Years after his personal struggle with drug use, which became the cause of conflict between him and his parents, Luigi said he now better understands the challenges of raising children.

Having watched Luigi's interview for the first time, de Belen emotionally recounted the challenges of raising Luigi as a single parent. She also said she is proud of her son for having surpassed his personal struggles, and for being a good father to his children.

Marriage becoming optional, study says

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 12:22:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines - Filipinos are beginning to see marriage as an option rather than a requirement, a study showed.

International marketing communications company JWT, in a report on trends in brands and products in the Philippines for 2012, said there is a "growing acceptance of happily single mothers or single by choice professional women in their workplaces" among low- to middle-income segments.

"They loathe to publicly declare it being in a predominantly Catholic country. But it has been a long accepted reality that... women have been thinking of deferring marriage to avoid a potentially emotionally traumatizing mistake. They turn to their professional development which is something more under their control," said the report, which is based on surveys and focus group discussions of Filipinos from lower- and middle-income classes.

It added that a growing number of married women in their 30s and 40s want to experience "a few days of singlehood" with their unmarried friends, leaving the kids at home with their fathers.

The report also cited 2004 figures from the National Statistics Office, which showed that the number of Filipino marriages are declining and more marriages are being annulled. The Philippines is the only country in Asia that does not acknowledge legal divorce.

"A growing segment of women is taking an alternate life route, one that does not include marriage as an essential checkpoint," it noted.

NSO's figures in 2008 showed thatmarriage is losing its luster for many in the Philippines, with more couples starting families out of wedlock. More than 37% of the 1.78 million babies born in the country had unmarried mothers, 12.5% higher than in the previous year.

A study from the University of Missouri-Colombia last year, meanwhile, revealed that young adults are slowing the road to marriage with "stayover relationships," where they can enjoy committed relationships without living together.

No 'Facebook fatigue' for longtime users: survey

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 12:19:00 +0000

WASHINGTON - So much for "Facebook fatigue."

A survey released on Friday shows that people who have used the social networking site over a long period - since its founding in 2004, say - show no sign that they have tired of posting pictures, updating weekend plans or just relaying random thoughts.

The Pew Research Center report, based on a US phone survey, logs and data from November 2010, sheds light on Facebook's possible long-term popularity as the company founded by Mark Zuckerberg heads for a $5 billion initial public offering.

Ahead of the IPO, one concern about Facebook has been that users will simply bore of it after a while, a phenomenon known as "Facebook fatigue." The Pew research suggests those worries may be unfounded.

The longer that people have used Facebook site, the more frequently they hit the "like" button, commented on friends' content, posted status updates and tagged their friends in photos, the report showed.

It also concluded that having more Facebook friends kept users more involved with the social networking site.

"The more Facebook friends users have, the more they perform every activity that we explored: friending, liking, private messages, commenting, posting, photo tagging, joining groups and poking," Pew said regarding the survey by its Internet & American Life project.

Facebook users on average can reach 156,569 other network users through friends of friends. The number is skewed by Facebook users with especially large friend lists, and the median is 31,170 people reached through friends of friends.

"This examination of people's activities in a very new realm affirms one of the oldest truths about the value of friendship," said Lee Rainie, head of Pew's Internet project. "Those who are socially active have a better shot at getting the help and emotional help they need."

The survey was based on a phone survey of 2,255 US adults that was conducted in November 2010. Respondents were asked to share logs of their Facebook activity, and about 269 respondents let Facebook release data on their use.

Facebook says it has 845 million active users today.

Kembali Coast

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 04:49:00 +0000

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Features:

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Concrete roads with streetlights

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From strip clubs to the gym: Pole dancing in PH

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 22:43:00 +0000

Pole Academy Philippines creative director Ed Aniel (left) and instructor Merry Farnal-Ballinger. Photos courtesy of PAP

MANILA, Philippines - What would you think if you see a woman who wears sexy clothes dancing and climbing a pole?

A taboo perhaps for many, especially for Filipinos.

Contrary to what others believe, pole dancing is not just for strip clubs, said veteran dancer Ed Aniel, who aims to wipe out the stigma attached to the performance art.

Aniel, who began his dancing career at age 18, introduced pole dancing as a form of exercise in the country by founding the Pole Academy Philippines (PAP) in 2007.

He has 2 other senior instructors: Eisa Jocson and Merry Farnal-Ballinger.

Asked who can join his classes, Aniel said, "Sex, age, height and weight don't matter. As long as you are willing to learn and you are passionate about it, you can enroll in our pole dancing classes."

Pole dancing as fitness craze

Geri Gatchalian-Gil, managing director of PAP, said pole dancing is fast gaining popularity in the Philippines as a way to get fit.

She said students initially enroll in their classes as an alternative to gym sessions.

PAP associate director Eisa Jocson. Photo courtesy of PAP

"But eventually, they enjoy going to the classes especially since we don't just do tricks on the pole. We have dance numbers every night at the end of the class," she said.

Gatchalian-Gil, a 42-year-old mother of two, said she first had inhibitions in showing some skin, but this changed after enrolling at PAP.

The academy, she said, helped her learn not only to pole dance but also to express herself better.

"Some actually lose weight from pole dancing, and even tone their muscles in the arms, legs and abs," she said.

True enough, PAP students shared that attending pole classes under Aniel "brought out the goddesses in them."

With pole dancing gaining ground in the Philippines, Aniel dreams of elevating it to the stage and showing the public his "hybrid style" of theatrical pole art.

"Pole dancing is an art form. At PAP, we call our brand of pole dancing as 'Jazz Le Pole,' a combination of jazz, ballet and pole dancing, which sets our school from other pole dancing schools in the country," he said.

Taiwan hosts its biggest same-sex 'wedding' party

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Sun, 21 Aug 2011 22:43:00 +0000

TAIPEI, Taiwan - About 80 lesbian couples tied the knot in Taiwan's biggest same-sex "wedding party" in a massive gesture that organizers said Sunday offered hope that the island will soon legalize gay marriage.

Many of the couples donned white dresses and veils for the "Barbie and Barbie's wedding", which was held overnight in downtown Taipei, attracting about 1,000 visitors, including friends, relatives and curious onlookers.

"I feel very hopeful that Taiwan will legalize same-sex marriage soon," said one of the brides, 32-year-old stylist Celine Chen, who plans a honeymoon in New York, which in June became the sixth US state to legalize gay marriage.

Even though same-sex unions are not legal in Taiwan, the celebrations went on smoothly without police interference or protests.

Many of the couples kissed, hugged and posed for photographs while receiving an unofficial certificate from the organizers that stated they were now "united in holy matrimony".

The event climaxed with a couple exchanging rings and saying "I do" amid roaring cheers from the crowd.

But in a brief moment of sadness, some of the participants acknowledged that the marriages were not bona fide.

"The wedding party is fun but it's not real," said Coral Huang, who has been with her partner for eight years and intends to go to Europe to wed legally.

"Getting a genuine marriage certificate is very meaningful as it shows that we are being recognized and accepted."

Taiwan is becoming more open-minded towards its homosexual population, and the island's gay rights groups last year said they had hosted Asia's biggest gay pride parade, with a turnout of 30,000.

In an opinion poll conducted in 2008 by the International Social Survey Programme, a global network dedicated to social science research, 17.5% of Taiwanese participants said that homosexual behavior was "not wrong at all".

While significantly lower than the United States, where 32.3% held that view, it was much higher than the 5.5% scored in Japan and 4.4% in the Philippines.

The cabinet in 2003 drafted a controversial bill to legalize same-sex marriages and allow homosexual couples to adopt children, the first in Asia to promise to do so.

But President Ma Ying-jeou has said that public consensus was needed to be reached before the government can move ahead with the legislation.

Cathay Pacific scandal tops PH Google search

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Sun, 21 Aug 2011 22:29:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines - Cathay Pacific caught the attention of Internet-using Filipinos last week after 2 of its employees were caught in a set of photos apparently engaging in oral sex on board an aircraft, according to Google Philippines.

Data gathered by the local unit of the Internet search giant from August 12 to 18 showed that "Cathay Pacific scandal" was the fastest rising news topic in the country after the photos were published on the Internet and in Chinese-language daily newspapers last Sunday.

The 2 members of Cathay Pacific's cabin crew who were shown in the photos have left the company. It was not clear whether the pair were sacked or if they resigned voluntarily.

The incident has caused Cathay Pacific to review a marketing campaign that bills the airline as "the team who go the extra mile to make you feel special."

Other top news topics last week include "Vietnam flag" after the country marked its veterans' remembrance day; "47.110579,9.227568," a location on Google Street View that shows a mysterious figure in the sky; and the controversial "Kulo" exhibit at the Cultural Center of the Philippines which was recently closed down.

Below is the full list:

Cathay Pacific scandal
Vietnam flag
47.110579,9.227568
Kulo exhibit
Final Destination 5
Dengue
Moves like Jagger
Smurf
Jetstar
DFA

Meanwhile, here are the country's fastest rising newsmakers from August 12 to 18:

Edgar Allan Guzman
Mideo Cruz
Paris Hilton
Kate Middleton
Barbie
Angry Birds
WWE
Starbucks
Rebecca Black
Solenn Heussaff

New Spider-Man is black teen from New York

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 13:25:00 +0000

NEW YORK - Spider-Man peeled his webbed mask back Wednesday to reveal a new face -- and it's black.

In a revolution for one of the most enduring characters in comic books, Marvel Comics introduced a revamped Spider-Man whose alter-ego is a mild-mannered half-black, half-Latino teen from New York.

The new Spidey is called Miles Morales and he lives in Brooklyn with his parents, at least when he's not in his famous red and blue costume and battling world evil.

The previous incarnation, Peter Parker, was white, an orphan and came from New York's borough of Queens. He was killed off in June during a fight with his nemesis Green Goblin.

"The superhero genre has been dominated by Caucasian (white) superheroes from Superman to Batman," Axel Alonso, Marvel's chief editor, told AFP.

"When Spider-Man peels back that mask, there will be a whole new demographic of kids who we'll be reaching on a new spiritual level."

Alonso said the idea of a black Spider-Man first came up when President Barack Obama, whose father was African, ran for the White House, becoming the first president with African-American roots.

But Marvel needed the right occasion to make the switch and that came when the story ended up in Peter Parker's death. "In order to kill Spider-Man, we needed to know who to put in his place," Alonso said.

The decision to go mixed-race rather than plain black -- like the Black Panther superhero in the early 1960s -- was also important.

Alonso said his own father is Mexican and his mother British, while Spidey writer Brian Michael Bendis is Jewish and has two adopted children from Africa. "So I know for him it was definitely personal," Alonso said.

Spider-Man is one of the most hallowed characters in superhero universe. In March, a copy of the inaugural 1962 comic book sold at auction for $1.1 million. Originally the comic sold to fans for just 12 cents.

In the inaugural adventure of the new Spider-Man, a slender Miles Morales takes on a fearsome thug called the Kangaroo, ultimately delivering justice, then climbing in spidery fashion up onto a New York rooftop where he pulls the mask from his sweating face.

Crowds gather to watch the fight, which leaves windows and one car wrecked as the neophyte superhero struggles to overcome the much larger Kangaroo.

There's no love from the public either, as bystanders accuse the blue-and-red suited stranger of wearing the dead superhero's costume "in terrible taste."

"I -- I thought you died," one says. "How is Spider-Man alive now?"

In the final frame, when Morales takes off the mask, there is no one there to see his surprising new face. "Maybe the costume is in bad taste," the heavy hearted-looking teen says to himself.

Long life is in the genes: study

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 13:23:00 +0000

WASHINGTON - Israeli researchers studied a population of Ashkenazi Jews who have lived to age 95 and older and found that their eating and lifestyle habits were no better than those of the general population.

In fact, men in the long-lived group drank slightly more and exercised less than their average counterparts, said the findings in the online edition of Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.

"This study suggests that centenarians may possess additional longevity genes that help to buffer them against the harmful effects of an unhealthy lifestyle," said senior author Nir Barzilai, director of the Institute for Aging Research at Yeshiva University's Albert Einstein College of Medicine.

The study involved 477 Ashkenazi Jews aged 95-122 who were living independently. A total of 75% were women. All were enrolled in an ongoing study that aims to uncover the secrets to longevity.

Ashkenazi Jews were chosen because they are more "genetically uniform than other populations, making it easier to spot gene differences that are present," said the study.

Overall, the elder group had similar habits in terms of height-weight ratio, smoking, exercise level and diet as similarly matched people in the general population.

Data on comparison subjects came from 3,164 people who had been born around the same time as the centenarians and were examined between 1971 and 1975 while participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

Twenty-four percent of long-living men drank alcohol daily, compared to 22% of the general population, while 43% of the older group exercised regularly compared to 57% of regular men.

While people in both groups were just as likely to be overweight, the longer-living group was less likely to reach higher levels of obesity. But researchers cautioned that the older set's secrets are not a good fit for most.

"Although this study demonstrates that centenarians can be obese, smoke and avoid exercise, those lifestyle habits are not good choices for most of us who do not have a family history of longevity," said Barzilai.

"We should watch our weight, avoid smoking and be sure to exercise, since these activities have been shown to have great health benefits for the general population, including a longer lifespan."

Pinay author breaks into US book market

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 13:21:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines - Filipino mom Samantha Sotto wrote her first book, Before Ever After, to kill time while waiting for her son to come out of school.

After a year, she sent her story to literary agents abroad and eventually got a deal with Random House, one of biggest publishing houses in the world.

Before Ever After was launched in New York last August 2, and is available in North America through Barnes & Noble and across the globe through Amazon and iBooks.

Currently, the book ranks fourth in Amazon's "Hot New Releases in American Literature."

Bestselling authors in the US had nothing but good things to say about Sotto's first book.

"Before Ever After is one of those books that challenges the natural laws of fiction writing, but in a frisky and highly entertaining way," said Anne Fortier, New York Times bestselling author of Juliet.

"Exquisitely written and inventively told, Before Ever After is a beautiful, moving -- and quite fun -- exploration of what you think you know about your own life," said Melissa Senate, bestselling author of See Jane Date, The Love Goddess' Cooking School and other novels.

In an interview with The Philippine Star, Sotto said she is already "80% done" with her second novel.

She gave this advice to aspiring writers who dreams of being published by Random House: "Stop dreaming and pursue what you want. The amount of creative talent in this country is huge and there is absolutely nothing that is stopping us from showing the world what the Filipino can do."

Meanwhile, Sotto will be at the Philippine Consulate in New York on August 12 to sign copies of her first book.

Iconic artist Dali inspires chef to put up Spanish restaurant

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 12:22:00 +0000

Churros with warm chocolate sauce. Photo courtesy of Dali Restaurante y Bar de Tapas

MANILA, Philippines - There's much sophistication in Dali's art. Images of warped timepieces, forms with moustache--apparently self-portraits of the artist himself--seemingly random subjects contribute to the complexity and depth to the art's surrealism.

Chef Pia Herrera and her husband Jose are big fans of the Spanish artist. This is why they named their restaurant after him, to also lend authenticity to the place.

"Salvador Dali is a very iconic artist for Spain, so what better [choice is there] to be a figurehead for a restaurant? And he's always been a favorite of my husband and mine. And I think he represents the flavor and the drama of Spain," Chef Pia Herrera said on the "Taste Buds" segment of "Mornings @ ANC" recently.

Copies of Spanish artist Salvador Dali's paintings adorn the restaurant. Photo courtesy of Dali Restaurante y Bar de Tapas

True enough, that drama is evident in copies of Dali's works which are displayed prominently at Dali Restaurante y Bar de Tapas, lending atmosphere to the venue and character to what they serve.

The food is authentic Spanish, inspired by the many influences Chef Pia took from living with her parents in Europe, and driving around in a motor home during family vacations in Spain. She went to culinary school at the Center for Culinary Arts in Quezon City and continued in upstate New York where she refined her culinary skills.

Incidentally, one of their partners at Dali is no less than Don Pepe Rodriguez, director of Instituto Cervantes, who has become a consultant for the food they serve.

Classic Spanish cuisine

"We've decided to focus on classic Spanish cuisine rather than doing the fusion most Spanish restaurants seem to be doing nowadays. Our menu is made up mostly of the tapas and it's a fun way to eat. We have the croquetas in many different flavors: chicken, ham, tuna. Another best seller is dates wrapped in bacon, datilas con bacon. We offer many of the classics like lengua de Jerez and callos, arroz negra, paella valenciana, cochinillo--the Spanish version of the lechon," Chef Pia said.

Unlike other restaurants which use a cream based sauce, Dali uses a sherry-based sauce for its lengua con Jerez.

Tapas and paellas may be a staple of Spanish cuisine, but Spanish cooking also has its own artistic variations.

Pescado a la sal con salsa verde is fish encased in salt and baked in an oven.

Chef Pia showed us one of their best sellers: the pescado a la sal using fish that's in season.

"It's a whole fish encased in salt and we bake it in the oven. And it's pretty much steamed with the salt, so when it comes out, it's just running juices and it's very flavorful. We serve it with a very classic Spanish sauce, the salsa verde," Chef Pia said.

There's just a hint of salt, but all the flavors of the capers, and olives in the salsa verde do wonders for this dish.

Fusion drinks

Chef Pia noted that much of the innovation and fusion done in the restaurant plays out in their sangrias and wine cocktails.

"We've introduced some new flavors, a bit of Asian flavors, into some of our sangrias," she said.

Their Sangria Oriental, for instance, is concocted using basil, simple syrup and ice, guava juice, red wine, sangria, and sliced oranges, shaken and served with guava slices.

Soon, Dali hopes to open a deli outlet where they'll be marketing their homemade boquerones (pickled fish marinated in olive oil), salads, jamon serrano, chorizos and various cold cuts. They will also be retailing wines.

"We want this to be a total experience restaurant so we have many plans including our deli and wine retail. We are offering gourmet homemade ice cream. One of our showcase desserts are sangrias and churros con chocolate ice cream which they can even personalize.

"We plan to have our deli and wine retail area fully operational by the grand opening. We want to make ourselves a trademark name for Spanish food in Quezon City," said Chef Pia.

Dali Restaurante y Bar de Tapas is at 40 E. Lopez St. corner Sgt. Esguerra Avenue, South Triangle, Quezon City, tel. no. (632) 928-0971, e-mail: dalirestaurante@yahoo.com.

PESCADO A LA SAL CON SALSA VERDE
Serves 4 to 6

Ingredients:
water
500 grams lapu-lapu
1,000 grams rock salt
5 pcs. lemon

Procedure:

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
Clean the fish, remove gills and innards then place lemon slices inside and put on an oven tray.
Moisten rock salt with water until it resembles wet sand.
In a pan, place fish on a bed of rock salt and cover the fish entirely. Pat down firmly.
Broil the fish in the oven for around 20 to 30 minutes.
Remove the fish from the oven and carefully remove the top layer of salt crust.
Serve with salsa verde sauce and garnish with lemons.

Salsa Verde

Ingredients:
1 anchovy fillet
1 Tbsp capers
2 Tbsp green olives
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 lb garlic
1 lb lemon juice
1 tsp siling labuyo
1/2 cup parsley (chopped)

Procedure:
Put all ingredients in a blender to make a smooth sauce. Place in a bowl and serve with the fish.

Neil, Phil, Angel top PH searches last week: Yahoo!

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 12:19:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines - Azkals goalkeeper Neil Etheridge, striker Phil Younghusband and the latter's rumored girlfriend, Angel Locsin, were top of mind for most Internet-using Filipinos last week.

Data from Yahoo! Philippines showed Etheridge is the country's most searched personality from July 4 to 10. He was seen crying after their win against the Sri Lanka Brave Reds on July 3.

The Fil-Brit goalkeeper also wore a shirt that showed a picture of him and his grandfather, who died weeks before the match.

Younghusband and Locsin, on the other hand, dominated the search logs last week after guests saw them cozying up to each other during the Azkals' victory party.

The striker even gave the actress a kiss.

"I'm happy to be with Angel and I'm happy she came to watch. It inspired me. I hope she will watch future matches," said Younghusband, who already asked Locsin to watch their next match in Kuwait on July 23.

Meanwhile, netizens reacted strongly to the removal of the Philippine rugby team's billboards along EDSA-Guadalupe last week.

The said billboards featured members of the team posing in colored underwear.

Other top Yahoo! searches last week include Australian pop singer Kylie Minogue who had a one-night concert in Manila last July 5; actress Emma Watson, whose last "Harry Potter" film premieres in the Philippines this week ; UAAP (University Athletic Association of the Philippines) Season 74, which kicked off last July 9; and former "Pinoy Big Brother" housemate Sam Pinto, who was voted as FHM Philippines' Sexiest Woman in the World this year.

Below is the full list of the most searched topics and personalities from July 4 to 10, according to Yahoo! Philippines:

1. Neil Etheridge
2. Angel Locsin and Phil Younghusband
3. Philippine Rugby Team
4. Kylie Minogue
5. Emma Watson
6. UAAP Season 74
7. Sam Pinto
8. Ruffa Gutierrez
9. Kim Chiu
10. Temptation Island

FHM sexy women grace 'M.U. Live's' slumber party

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:33:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines - ABS-CBN’s "Music Uplate (M.U.) Live's" slumber party episode on Tuesday became sizzling hot as lingerie-clad "FHM" women guested on the late-night musical variety show.

FHM models Karen Bordador, Jacq Yu, Jef Gaitan and Cristine Marquez were a hit among the predominantly male audience.

Karen Bordador, Jacq Yu, Jef Gaitan and Cristine Marquez unabashedly teased and bantered with the male hosts, Tutti Caringal and Martin Concio, as well as gamely answered questions throughout the program.

The questions ranged from wholesome (e.g., their biggest celebrity crush, what do they look for in a guy) to double-meaning queries (e.g., does size matter, or what do they prefer, front seat or back seat).

Would they want their men wearing boxers, briefs or bathrobes? Yu responded boxers, Gaitan, briefs, while Marquez teased, “nothing underneath the bathrobe.”

Good boy or bad boy? Marquez said she prefers good boy, “clean cut [and] nicely dressed.” Yu is happy with “bad boy on the outside, good boy in the inside.” Gaitan, for her part, said, “Good boy. Minsan kaya niyang maging playful at bad.”

Yu and Gaitan ranked No. 54 and No. 48, respectively, on the list of "FHM" 100 Sexiest Women in the World 2011. Jamilla Obispo, who is No. 92 on the list, also graced the show.

More than their physical looks, the women also displayed their wits.

Bordador, for instance, said she finds it more flattering to be called intelligent and with a nice personality. “Looks, they die out. Brain, it gets you out there.”

She also goes for a guy who has confidence and can take care of her, said Bordador, who also got to grace the cover of "FHM" Singapore.

The sexy women gamely answered questions such as "What does sexy mean?"

When asked to define what sexy is, the model-singer said: “For me, ang sexy ay ang taong happy at sobrang ganda ng personality. Why? Well, kasi ang mga taong ganoon, hinahanap-hanap mo. Regardless kung anong look niya, kahit hindi mo siya type, magiging type mo siya.”

Yu, meantime, said a guy has to be loyal and patient and that he should respect her. Beyond the looks, she said she looks for chemistry and a good sense of humor in a guy. “If you’re going to be with someone for the rest of your life, then you got to be with someone who can make you laugh.”

1 in 3 consumers in PH access the Internet

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:28:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines - One in 3 consumers--or 33 percent--have been accessing the Internet in the country, a report by the global insights and measurement company Nielsen revealed Tuesday.

This is 5 percentage points below the regional average for Southeast Asia (38%).

The report, a pre-release of data from the company's Southeast Asia Digital Consumer Report, also noted that for the Philippines, younger people are more likely to go online rather than older ones.

Among consumers in the country in the 15-19 age bracket, about two-thirds (65%) use the Internet. Of those in their 20s, close to half of them (48%) go online.

Of those in their 30s, only 24% access the Internet; those in their 40s, 13%; while only 4% of consumers in their 50s go online.

Where they go online

The report also said that in most of Southeast Asia, consumers accessed the Internet from home more.

In the Philippines, however, 74% of the users in the 15-19 age bracket go online at Internet cafes.

For users aged 30 and above, they access the Internet from home more, with 86% of users in their 50s going online at home.

Fifty-two percent of Filipinos have high-speed Internet connection in their computers at home, said the report, which will be available on September 30.

Going mobile

Some 24% of Filipino Internet users are said to go online daily using their mobile phone, and 56% intend to do so in the next 12 months.

"The sophisticated capabilities, ease of use and overall user experience provided by smartphones like the iPhone and Blackberry is changing the patterns of behavior of digital consumers," observed Jay Bautista, Managing Director of Nielsen's media business in the Philippines.

"The anytime, anywhere access to digital media that smartphones and other Internet devices affords is stimulating online media consumption and will be a significant driving force for increased Internet usage in the future."

Social media and buying habits

Social media is huge among Filipino online users, the report noted.

"In the Philippines, communicating via social media has now overtaken email to become the most popular form of online communication--over two-thirds of Filipino digital consumers (67%) have visited social networking sites, compared to 40% who use email," Nielsen said in a statement.

Social media is also drawing Filipino consumers to interact with companies and brands.

Nielsen said the country emerged the 2nd highest (75% of Filipino users do) in the number of people who "liked" or followed a brand, company, or celebrity on social networking sites.

Most of them also trust consumer opinions posted online (61% of users, which is 7 points above the regional average).

In making purchasing decisions, Filipino consumers also trust online product reviews and discussion forums, next to recommendations made by family and friends. About two-thirds (64%) of Filipinos accessing the Internet turn to social media before making decisions to buy a product or service.

"The rise of social media platforms has facilitated more ways for word of mouth communication to take place and this presents both opportunities and challenges for companies," noted Bautista.

"Filipinos are increasingly looking to their fellow Internet users for opinions and information about products, services and brands, and engagement with online word of mouth communication is going to increase in coming years as social media plays an increasingly important role in consumer decision making."

High salt + low potassium = early death: study

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:25:00 +0000

CHICAGO - Put down the salt shakers. Eating too much salt and too little potassium can increase the risk of death, US government researchers said on Monday.

The findings from a team at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are a counterpoint to a fiercely-debated study released last week that found no evidence that making small cuts in salt intake lowers the risk of heart disease and premature death.

"Salt is still bad for you," said Dr. Thomas Farley, Health Commissioner for New York City, which is leading a campaign to reduce salt in restaurant and packaged foods by 25% over five years.

Most health experts agree with Farley that consuming too much salt is not good for you and that cutting salt intake can reduce high blood pressure, which raises the risk of heart attack and stroke. Salt intake has been rising since the 1970s, with Americans consuming about twice the recommended daily limit.

The CDC study, published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, specifically focused on growing research that shows a diet high in salt and low in potassium is especially risky.

Farley, who wrote an editorial on the CDC study, said it is one of the best yet looking at the long-term effects of eating too much salt.

"It is entirely consistent with what we've said all along about sodium intake," Farley said in a telephone interview.

For the study, researchers looked at the long-term effects of sodium and potassium intake as part of a 15-year study of more than 12,000 people.

By the end of the study period, 2,270 of the study participants had died; 825 of these deaths were from heart disease and 433 were from blood clots and strokes.

Potassium is key

They found that people who had a high salt intake and a low potassium intake were most at risk.

"People who ate a diet high in sodium and low in potassium had a 50% increased risk of death from any cause, and about twice the risk of death -- or a 200% increase -- from a heart attack," said Dr. Elena Kuklina of the CDC who helped lead the study.

She said consumers need to increase the levels of potassium in their diet by adding more servings of fresh fruits and vegetables, such as spinach, grapes, carrots, sweet potatoes, and low fat milk and yogurt.

The Salt Institute, an industry group, challenged the findings, pointing out that the CDC study found that the link between salt intake and heart disease was statistically insignificant.

"This is a highly flawed publication that reveals more about the anti-salt agenda being pursued by the CDC than about any relationship between salt and health," said Mort Satin, the Salt Institute's Director of Science and Research.

"The only significance is between low potassium and mortality," Satin said in a statement.

Dr. Robert Briss, director of the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion at the CDC, said the findings support the general weight of evidence and suggests that higher doses of sodium are linked with poor health consequences.

And it suggests "that higher potassium may be better for you," Briss said in a telephone interview.

"About 90% of Americans consume more sodium than is recommended. This impacts their blood pressure," Briss said.

"Most of that sodium is not related to the salt shaker but it is in foods and especially processed and restaurant foods that we buy and order from restaurants. Consumers, even motivated ones, don't have as much choice as they could," he said.

Kuklina said potassium often counteracts the effects of salt in the diet. This equilibrium is affected when people eat highly processed foods, which tend to increase sodium levels and decrease potassium content.

"If sodium increases your high blood pressure, potassium decreases it. If sodium retains water, potassium helps you get rid of it," she said.

Instead of focusing only on salt, Kuklina said researchers should focus on the balance between potassium and salt.

"We need to strive to do both -- decrease your sodium intake and increase your potassium intake," she said.

'Creatures' ad campaign wins at Cannes festival

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:22:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines - An advertising campaign dubbed "Creatures" won the Silver Lion for the Outdoor Category at the 2011 Cannes Festival of Creativity.

The campaign is for Boysen and it was done by the agency TBWA\Santiago Mangada Puno (TBWA\SMP).

The 2011 victory is a second for both Boysen and the agency in the said awards.

In a statement, the agency said the "Creatures" campaign used high-speed photography, premium Boysen paints, meticulous shot choice, and design craft. It is a sequel to the "Flowers" campaign of 2010, which also won many awards, among them a Bronze Lion at the Cannes Lions Festival.

Behind "Creatures" is the creative team led by Creative Director Jake Tesoro, with Copywriter Bryan Siy and Art Director Nolan Fabular.

The agency also said the campaign is consistent with Boysen's thrust toward caring for the environment.

The paint company is currently spearheading a large-scale art project on the busy EDSA highway [http://rp1.abs-cbnnews.com/lifestyle/04/29/11/artworks-soon-dot-edsa] using Knoxout, a paint product that reportedly breaks down air pollutants.

This project is dubbed EDSA or Everyone Deserves Safe Air. Under the project, EDSA's walls will feature giant art pieces by 7 artists and TBWA\SMP.

8 Metro Manila film fest entries named

noreply@blogger.com (tess salce) — Sat, 18 Jun 2011 23:07:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines – The 8 entries for this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) were announced on Friday.

The competing films, in alphabetical order, are:

· "Enteng Ng Ina Mo"
· "Hototay"
· "Mr. Wong"
· "My House Husband"
· "Panday 2"
· "Segunda Mano"
· "Shake, Rattle and Roll 13"
· "Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow "

“Enteng Ng Ina Mo”, a joint movie effort of ABS-CBN Film Productions, Inc., M-Zet TV Productions, APT Productions and Octo Arts Films, is top-billed by Vic Sotto and 2010 MMFF Best Actress Ai-Ai delas Alas. The film is directed by Tony Y. Reyes.

Regal Entertainment and SMDC’s entry “Hototay”, a comedy film directed by Joel Lamangan, stars John Lapus, Ruffa Gutierrez and Lovi Poe.

“Mr. Wong” is RP Studios’ entry, starring Robin Padilla. The film is directed by Trina Dayrit and Rechie del Carmen.

Octo Arts Films’ “My House Husband” stars real life couple Ryan Agoncillo and Judy Ann Santos. The romantic-comedy film is directed by Jose Javier Reyes.

Bong Revilla and director Mac Alejandre returns with a second serving of “Panday” with Imus Productions and GMA Network Films’ “Panday 2”. Also starring are Phillip Salvador, Marian Rivera and Iza Calzado.

“Segunda Mano” of MJM Productions features Dingdong Dantes and Kris Aquino in a horror flick.

The 13th installment of Regal Entertainment’s “Shake, Rattle and Roll” features 3 directors known for their indie films: Chris Martinez, Richard Somes and Jerrold Tarog.

Studio 5’s entry is the drama film “Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” directed by Rodolfo "Jun" Lana Jr. The film stars Dennis Trillo, Heart Evangelista, Carla Abellana and Ritz Azur.

This year’s MMFF is the festival’s 37th edition, set to begin on December 25.