pillboxusa

World of Wellness Spa Party

2011-12-07T20:51:00.000-08:00

Let’s get together to celebrate and Join Cory Quirino as she celebrates the first year anniversary of World of Wellness (WOW) Direct Sales this coming December 17, 2011 from 9:00AM to 12:00PM atOne Esplanade, Seaside corner JW Diokno Street, SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City!

Bloggers Choice

2011-12-01T12:15:00.000-08:00

I'm reviving this blog so I can vote for Bloggers Choice is in: I vote for BLOG-PH.com for this year’s Philippine Blog Awards Bloggers’ Choice. One of the Top 100 Pinoy Blogs according to Top Blogs Philippines

Samsung MV800- Great Photography in ALL Angles

2011-11-20T20:27:00.000-08:00

Samsung Electronics Philippines Corporation (SEPCO), a leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies, unveiled the Samsung MultiView MV800 with a 3.0” Wide Flip-out Display. With this product, the company is pioneering a new and unique MultiView category to enable today’s increasingly ambitious camera user to frame the perfect shot or portrait, from any angle.

The Samsung MV800 builds on the success of Samsung 2View technology. This is also the first premium compact model to feature a 3.0” Wide Flip-out MultiView Touch Display. Samsung has designed the device from the user-upwards in response to evolving consumer demands in the segment for maximum flexibility, enjoyment and creativity.

Samsung -MV800
The 3.0” Wide Flip-out Display opens up a world of artistic possibilities. Whether it is capturing the perfect self portrait to polish your online profile or extreme low and high angled shots, the Samsung MV800 can help demonstrate your photographic prowess. The unique screen tilts up and down so you can frame every shot and easily view back your images from any perspective.

For style-conscious consumers on the look-out for a sophisticated and minimalist feel, the device’s ultra-slender design and contemporary metallic finish promises to make a visual impact.

The ultra slim and stylish device boasts enhanced picture quality and a touch screen technology. It has many innovative and user-friendly features to ensure that all users can relax and enjoy their shooting experience, confident of capturing even the most challenging images.

The Samsung MV800 camera offers an impressive 16.1 MP for premium picture quality, along with a 5x optical zoom lens to capture every detail in close-up and a 26mm wide-angle lens to capture larger gatherings in high definition. By packing this technology into a sleek and slim device, the Samsung MV800 is the ideal camera for premium-quality image capture on the move.

Its innovative Live Panorama function enables the easy photography of large groups by simply holding down the shutter button, then previewing the whole scene that’s been captured via the LCD. Moreover, by simply connecting the Samsung MV800 to a 3D HDTV, images and panoramic shots can be viewed instantly in outstanding 3D in-depth quality.

While the Flip-out MultiView Display allows you to take shots from all angles with ease and comfort, a unique Smart Touch 3.0 feature ensures a highly intuitive operation to save your fingers the effort! It enables you to drag and scroll through menu options to launch the required feature with a single touch. Smart Touch 3.0 also keeps it fun by letting users customize their background image or wallpaper.

Mr. Ariel T. Arias, Audio-Visual Business Unit Head, commented: “Our aim is to continually be at the forefront of digital compact camera innovation and the breakthrough MultiView proposition offered by the Samsung MultiView MV800 is the embodiment of that goal. The Samsung camera’s unique ability to capture images from any angle, with its stylish and ultra-slim design, demonstrates unparalleled Samsung innovation which we believe will appeal to every photographer and establish a new benchmark for the industry.”

Get Creative with Magic Frame and Picture-in-Picture Shot
The Samsung MV800 has been designed as more than just a camera - it is a creative tool for users to extract maximum enjoyment from all photographic opportunities. The Magic Frame feature includes 12 fun background templates, as well as the ability for users to customize their own. Meanwhile, the camera’s Picture-in-Picture function lets you insert one image with another. You can even use the Flip-out display to snap a self-portrait and put yourself in the picture!

Maximize enjoyment with Smart Filter and Funny Face Features
Smart Filter allows users to express their own creativity through a menu of 14 artistic effects. It includes the newly added Water Paint for a stylish watercolour finish and the Cartoon capability - transforming any photo into a fun animated film format. The fun doesn’t stop there. Funny Face allows you to bend, stretch and manipulate portraits of loved ones by tapping and dragging to radically distort facial characteristics - ready to share and enjoy.

Create your own Story
The Samsung MV800 essentially allows you to become the creative director of your life with an innovative Storyboard Maker. Users can prepare a storyboard from the images they have shot by simply selecting the layout, and then placing the photos in order. Whether you are creating a movie of a night out with friends or capturing a fantastic family holiday, see it laid out on the display as clearly as you do in your head.

HD Movie Capability at the Palm of your Hands
The Samsung MV800 also boasts HD recording capabilities within a compact body that will fit at the palm of your hand. Enjoy a consistently clear and crisp video technology and capture special memories with a recording time of up to twice as long as the standard MPEG4. The innovative zoom noise reduction technology ensures that the only sound recorded will be the laughter and conversation of loved ones, not the whirring of the zoom.

The Samsung MV800’s combination of industry-leading innovation, sophisticated design and user-friendly features, provides total mobility, premium picture quality and maximum enjoyment. The Samsung MV800 is the perfect tool not only to capture an image but also to tell a fun and creative story on the move.

For more information on the Samsung MultiView MV800, please visit: www.samsung.com/multiview

The Samsung MV800 is available for P14,990 at all leading camera shops nationwide.

Great Christmas Gift for everyone! :)

M & S Autumm 2011 Collection

2011-11-17T20:29:00.000-08:00

Marks & Spencer is excited to introduce the new Autumn 2011 Limited Collection print campaign in stores and online. Shot by the iconic fashion photographer Rankin and styled by Wonderland Fashion Editor Way Perry the campaign showcases three of the freshest faces of the fashion and acting world; Sophie Byron, Suki Waterhouse, and Louise De Chevigny. In true Rankin style, the dynamic black and white photography encapsulates the energy and ethos of the Limited Collection and the girls about town.

“Working with such a renowned British brand as M&S on the Limited Collection ad campaign has been really exciting opportunity. I’ve grown up with M&S so the brand feels really familiar. But working with Limited Collection allowed me to capture the younger personality of the brand and the energy of the girls,” says Rankin.

Inspired by the swinging sixties, the new Autumn 2011 Limited Collection uses pops of color and edgy design elements to create a sleek and modern London look. Chic a-line hems, traditional to the mod-rock blueprint of the 60s are highlighted in pieces such as the silk block shift with garments like the animal print dress and geometric body-con dress making up to date and trend focused for Autumn 2011.

“The new look and feel Limited Collection takes its inspiration from the mid sixties, a big trend influence from the catwalk. Pieces such as knitted cape gave youthful twist to a traditional shape making it a must-have wardrobe staple for the season,” says Helen Low, design director of Marks & Spencer.

Marks & Spencer is exclusively distributed by Rustan Marketing Specialists, Inc. and is available at Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Glorietta 4, Alabang Town Center, Greenbelt 5, SM Megamall A, Robinson’s Place Manila, Power Plant Mall, Ayala Center Cebu, SM City Pampanga, Gateway Mall, SM City North Edsa, Robinson’s Galleria East Wing, SM Mall of Asia, TriNoma Mall, Marquee Mall Pampanga, Paseo de Sta. Rosa Outlet Store, Limketkai Center in Cagayan de Oro, and Eastwood Mall.

Alfred Dunhill Autumn Winter 2011 Avorities Leather 2.0

2011-11-07T20:30:00.000-08:00

Designed with the traveling businessman in mind the Alfred Dunhill Avorities Leather 2.0 collection is functional, lightweight and durable.

The black cowhide leather has been treated to provide improved durability and scuff resistance, whilst the collection’s tumbled grain quality is complemented with gunmetal hardware. Every piece in the collection comes complete with adjustable shoulder straps and other functional features such as multiple pockets, a padded laptop sleeve, detachable pouches or a trolley panel.

The Alfred Dunhill Avorities Leather 2.0 range is comprised of five styles. The Single Zip Briefcase and 24 Hour Briefcase both of which include detachable zip laptop pouches, allowing for easy access if working on a train or aeroplane.

The new Vertical Messenger and ever popular North South Bag offer practicality and space in more casual styles. Each boasts flat zip back pockets which provide easy access at airport security. Interior functionalities include multiple size and shape pockets and a detachable zip pouch with a net pocket.

Finally, the Rucksack, an increasingly popular choice for the businessman, provides comfort and ease of use – created in full leather for a luxurious look and increased durability.

In the Philippines, Dunhill is exclusively distributed by Stores Specialists Inc. (SSI) and is located at Rustan’sMakati.

Bayview Park Hotel

2011-05-25T00:08:00.000-07:00

It's always a gamble when visiting an hotel for the first time. I'm really pleased to say that the Bayview delivered what it promised, nothing more and nothing less. It's so good to arrive at an hotel and recognise the frontage as what was seen on the webpage. The rates were reasonable so you expect 'reasonable' service and standards. The Bayview didn't disappoint - good start to a well earned break.

If you are looking for a safe, convenient, and safe place to stay, this is the hotel for you. It is right across from the US Embassy, along the Manila Bay on roxas Boulevard. The staff is efficient and friendly. Buffet breakfast offers a wide selection, and the rooms are equipped with wireless connection for your laptops. It is also moderately priced; near the Robinson Plaza shopping mall, and many restaurants around. The airport is accessible from this hotel due to its location.


The Friendly Staff plus the General Manager Mr Eugene Yap

The General Manager Mr. Eugene Yap

Another thing that I have noticed is that the General Manager and their friendly staff is always on hand to help you and answer your questions. You can have a hotel car service for $12 to the airport or anywhere; or the hotel guard/bellboy can flag a cab for you. Feel safe because the guard always takes down the cab plate number. If you don't have your laptop with you, there are computers with internet access to the lobby at $2 an hour. They also have a business center where you can print documents.

Discover all that Manila has to offer with Bayview Park Hotel as a base. The 275 guestrooms at this 3-star hotel provide all the essential amenities needed by the business and leisure traveler. Each guestroom has non smoking rooms, air conditioning, bathrobes, daily newspaper, desk. To suit guests' convenience, this Manila accommodation offers elevator, coffee shop, laundry service/dry cleaning, restaurant, room service, safety deposit boxes. For a more enjoyable stay, guests can take advantage of a variety of recreational facilities, including gym, outdoor pool. These top-class facilities are complemented to excellent services to meet the needs of visitors to Manila. To book a room at the Bayview Park Hotel, please select your dates of travel and complete fill out our secure online booking form.

Check out the rooms

Bayview Park Hotel - Manila Room Facilities
Air Conditioning
Bathrobes
Bathtub
Coffee / Tea Maker
Complimentary Bottled Water
Daily Newspaper
Desk
Hair Dryer
In Room Safe
Internet
Internet Access (Charges Apply)
Mini Bar
Non Smoking Rooms
Satellite / Cable TV
Separate Shower And Tub
Shower
Television

Bayview Park Hotel - Manila Sports and Recreation
Gym
Gym / Fitness
Outdoor Pool
Swimming Pool

Dining Facilities

Savour their delicacies

Their city-wide famous Tea Lounge is ideal for business meetings or leisurely get-togethers. It offers a variety of coffees and teas and daily-afternoon tea buffet (except weekends).

Delight your tastebuds at Giardino Coffeeshop where daily buffet and generous ala carte serving is an unparalleled dining experience.

Enjoy the ultimate hotel experience with Bayview Park Hotel's complete amenities and facilities designed to cater to all your needs. Wine and dine at the hotel's very own coffee shop where a sumptuous daily buffet and generous portions of a la carte meals lead to an unparalleled dining experience. An array of Power Meals is also available for those on the go and in need of an energy boost for their active lifestyle. As for meetings, conventions, exhibits, weddings, social gatherings, or any other event, choose from any of our fifteen Function Rooms, all equipped to cater to your specific requirements. Our friendly and experienced Banquet Team will also work with you to help make your corporate and social functions an unforgettable success.

Yours truly was able to savour what Bayview Park Hotel has to offer.. It was gastronomically delightful indeed

It is commonly called "Lato" or "Arosep". I washed it until the water became clear, put in a bowl then mixed with chopped tomatoes.

I totally loved this Malunggay Broth..

Pancit Bato, Pancit Bicol. Camsur or Camarines Sur is not only famous for its Caramoan Islands and Water Sports facilities, It is also the home of the famous Pancit Bicol. Pancit Bato is named after the town that it came from.

Also loved this gabi dish called Kinadkaran.. yummy!!!

What made this Laing so good is that it wasn't too spicy at all. They separated the chili so that the guests can decide how spicy they want it to be.

Assorted Kakanin

Halo Halo Ingredients

Ube Kakanin

This is what Bicol is known for Pili and Banana Chips

The perfect way to end a great meal is Halo Halo..

Pacquiao Vs. Mosley: Mosley stepped on Pacquiao's right foot and pushes at round 10.

2011-05-08T05:29:00.000-07:00

Manny Pacquiao lost his balance when Mosley stepped on Pacquiao's right foot eventually called a knock out. Round 10 scored 9-9.

Mosley stepped on Pacquiao's right foot and pushes him - cheap shot "Shame Mosley"

Pacquiao Vs. Mosley Highlights

2011-05-08T04:10:00.001-07:00

Round 1:

Each guy worked hard to set up blows with their jabs. Pacquiao landed twice to the body and once to the face, and Mosley sneaked in a hard right to face. Pacquiao wins the round, 10-9 (scoring is unofficial).

Round 2:

Pacquiao is the aggressor and Mosley appears a bit confused. Pacquiao lands a good left to the head followed by a right. The pair butt heads at the one-minute mark; all is OK. Pacquiao lands to the body, Mosley retreats. A left to the body and right to the face by Pacquiao. Pacquiao wins the round, 10-9. Pacquiao leads fight, 20-18.

Round 3:

Pacquiao drops Mosley for the third time in his career, charging with a combination and dropping him with a left. Mosley is dazed at the 1:10 mark. Pacquiao going for the kill, left to the head and body. Again to the body and face. Mosley survives. Pacquiao wins the round, 10-8. Pacquiao leads, 30-26.

Round 4:

Mosley slips. Pacquiao working the jab. He lands a hard left to Mosley's jaw. Mosley can't keep up. We expected this. Mosley jabs in vain. Pacquiao lands a left to the body. Hard combo by Mosley as Pacquiao covers. Pacquiao rallies, gets in two hard lefts to Mosley's face. Pacquiao wins the round, 10-9. Pacquiao leads, 40-35.

Round 5:

Mosley has some crispness back. Pacquiao charges forward, as if he has great confidence. Mosley blocking some shots. Good left to the face by Pacquiao. Mosley definitely not his aggressive self of old. Pacquiao jabs to head and body. Pacquiao wins the round, 10-9. Pacquiao leads, 50-44.

Round 6:

A soft head butt slows the action. Pacquiao goes left, lands a combination on attack. Mosley retreating. The action slows, and the crowd boos. Good short right by Pacquiao. Mosley gets in a right. Pacquiao wins the round, 10-9. Pacquiao leads, 60-53.

Round 7:

Two good left uppercuts by Pacquiao, who ducks in for attack. Mosley shows no such ambition, and gets hit by rights to the body and head and a right-left combo. Pacquiao wins the round, 10-9. Pacquiao leads, 70-62.

Round 8:

A big left to the head by Pacquiao symbolizes why Mosley's not engaging. Too much pain. More lefts continue to blunt Mosley's aged effort. The crowd booing the inaction by the challenger. Bad fight. Pacquiao wins the round, 10-9. Pacquiao leads, 80-71.

Round 9:

Mosley sneers after a right-left charge by Pacquiao. Heads clash again, action resumes. Nice right by Pacquiao and good left hook by Mosley. A Pacquiao combo and left follows. Mosley sneaks in a good jab. Mosley to the body. Pacquiao hits Mosley in belly with right and snaps his head back with hard left. Pacquiao wins the round, 10-9. Pacquiao leads, 90-80.

Round 10:

Referee Kenny Bayless wrongly awards Mosley a knockdown on a push. Mosley was going forward, but clearly pushed Pacquiao with a right. Pacquiao quickly gets back up, attacking. Pacquiao hits Mosley on ear with left. Another left. A straight left rolls Mosley's head back. Round is a 9-9 draw. Pacquiao leads, 99-89.

Mosley stepped on Pacquiao's right foot and pushes him - cheap shot "Shame Mosley"

Round 11:

Mosley working hard to avoid a knockout here, backpedaling from combinations as Pacquiao attacks. Mosley hugs Pacquiao, who gets free and unleashes a combination that backs up Mosley. Pacquiao roaring at end, Mosley looking for cover. Pacquiao wins the round, 10-9. Pacquiao leads, 109-98.

Round 12:

Pacquiao completes a dominant effort, striking Mosley with more lefts to the head and body. He hammers Mosley with left-right to head. But Mosley survives. Pacquiao walks back frustrated to his corner with third straight unanimous decision coming. Pacquiao wins the round, 10-9. Pacquiao should win, 119-107.

Official verdict: Manny Pacquiao wins by unanimous decision. Scoring: Trowbridge, 119-108; Moretti, 120-108; Ford 120-107.

--Courtesy of Lance Pugmire

The Philippines Gears Up for The Country’s Biggest Anti-Cervical Cycling Tour

2011-05-07T20:33:00.000-07:00

The countdown to the cycling tour that will save at least 500 Filipino women from cervical cancer has begun.

Now, about a hundred anti-cervical cancer campaigners are getting in shape for The Tour of Hope 2011 - 500: Going the Xtra Mile Against Cervical Cancer, which is one of the most challenging cycling tours in the country. Organized by Bravehearts in partnership with Team David’s Salon and GlaxoSmithKline, this year’s Tour of Hope aims to provide cervical cancer vaccinations for 500 women during its 5-day tour.

In a country where cervical cancer claims the lives of 3,807 women every year[1], the need to fight this deadly but preventable disease has only grown stronger over the years.

Since The Tour of Hope started in 2008, it has generated approximately Php 2 million through sponsorships and pledges. These were then used for cervical cancer screening programs and lectures with the Cervical Cancer Prevention Network (CECAP).

However, if you think that The Tour of Hope is all about the bikers, think again. Over the past two years, the event organizers have formed partnerships with local government units such as those of Tarlac, Dagupan, Pampanga, La Union, and Baguio in order to conduct lectures during each stopover of the tour to local communities containing marginalized groups with poor health-seeking behavior.

What’s in Store for The Tour of Hope 2011

“Over the past two years, The Tour of Hope has been perceived as a cycling tour first and an anti-cervical cancer fundraising event second, when in fact it should be the other way around,” explains Abbygale Arenas-de Leon, Bravehearts president. “For this year’s Tour of Hope, we are not just focusing on increasing awareness about the disease, we also want to encourage people, especially women out there, to take action against cervical cancer.”

Aside from the challenging journey, The Tour of Hope has always been known for bringing its participants to scenic locations such as Vigan, Zambales, and Camarines Sur. This year is no exception. The Tour of Hope 2011 - 500: Going the Xtra Mile Against Cervical Cancer will kick off at the TriNoMa Mall in Quezon City on May 28, 2011.

The first stop will be at Tarlac City, Tarlac. It is the home of President Noynoy Aquino’s ancestral house and Mount Pinatubo, where adventure-seeking 4x4 wheel drivers try their skills, and hikers visit the crater. The tour will then continue

to San Fernando, La Union, where the renowned La Union Botanical Gardens is located. Afterwards, the bikers will head to Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, where historical churches and ancestral homes that reflect the beauty of old world architecture can be found. The fourth stop will be Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, where tourists often visit the Juan Luna Shrine. There, visitors can get a glimpse of the award-winning Spolarium painter’s life through vintage photographs and household artifacts. The final stop for this year’s Tour of Hope is Paoay, where bikers will get to see the unique blend of Spanish, Chinese, and architecture represented by Paoay Church, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The last leg of the tour will feature celebrity bikers such as Matteo Guidicelli, Sen. Pia Cayetano, Marvin Kiefer, Rovilson Fernandez, Troy Montero, Aubrey Miles, Will Devaughn, Richie Hardin, Richard Herrera, Janna Victoria, Jeena Lopez, Gem Padilla - Thomas, Anthony Pangilinan, and David Charlton. They will be lending their star power to draw attention to a good cause. In addition to that, Tessa Prieto – Valdes is also currently working on a special project that will also help raise funds for cervical cancer prevention.

“I would like to invite everyone to sign up for The Tour of Hope 2011,” says Arenas-de Leon. “Not only is it good for your health, your participation will undoubtedly help change and save the lives of thousands of women all over the Philippines.”

Bravehearts is a non-profit organization initially led by the Cervical Cancer Prevention Network (CECAP) for the Cancer Institute Foundation (CIF). It is dedicated to raising awareness on cervical cancer prevention and is supported by a growing number of women, including prominent personalities such as Abbygale Arenas-de Leon, who is the current president of the organization, Senator Loren Legarda, Pia Magalona, Ellen Tordesillas, Tessa Prieto – Valdes, Jeena Lopez, Maimai Davao, Joyette Jopson, and Suzi Entrata. For further inquiries, please email braveheartsphilippines@gmail.com. To be a part of The Tour of Hope 2011 – 500: Going the Xtra Mile Against Cervical Cancer, please email Joyette Jopson at joyette.jopson@gmail.com or contact her at 0917-8827352.

Pacquiao Vs Mosley Live Streaming

2011-05-07T06:48:00.000-07:00

Manny Pacquiao's car collided with one of his security on the way to MGM. He is okay and fight is on the way. Cheers.

2011-05-06T23:05:00.001-07:00

The Little Fockers

2011-01-07T05:25:00.000-08:00

Thanks so much for letting me experience the Director's Club treatment, this is a cinema that's in a class of its own and a world apart from the rest.Located in Mall of Asia. Luxury at it's finest!

It has the following amenities:

- 30-plush and fully-reclining La-Z Boy armchairs with side tables
- Cozy interior with lounge
- Superb state-of-the-art screen
- Digital surround sound system
- A wide library of movie titles.

Here's what we watched:
Little Fockers is a 2010 American comedy film and a sequel to both Meet the Parents (2000) and Meet the Fockers (2004) starring Robert De Niro, Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Blythe Danner, Teri Polo, Dustin Hoffman and Barbra Streisand. It is the first film in the series that was not directed by Jay Roach and was instead directed by Paul Weitz.

Plot

Greg and his wife Pam, daughter of retired CIA agent Jack, have five-year-old twins, Henry and Samantha.
Jack has heart problems and appoints Greg to the new head of the family, the "Godfocker". However, he starts to have doubts about his decision, because he thinks Greg has an affair with Andi Garcia, a sexy pharmaceutical-company representative. This is not true, the impression is due to coincidences and drunkenness of Andi. Jack even suggests to Pam that it might be better to divorce Greg and resume her relationship with Kevin Rawley, her former fiancé. Greg and Pam are annoyed by this.

In order to prove he can look after the family, Greg tries to get his children into a better school (although he almost blows the chance), build a new house (which has problems in the garden), and get his finances in order. Upon meeting Bob (Debbie's ex-husband), he tells Greg that he has never been happier after getting off "the hamster wheel" and that he was Jack's first choice to lead the family and gave him the name "The Bobfather", which makes him a little upset. Jack and Greg eventually make up at the twins' birthday party after a fight, in which Jack suffers a heart attack and Greg saves his life. The film ends four months later on Christmas when Jack, Dina, Bernie and Roz come to spend Christmas with Pam and Greg in their new house and Greg's parents tell them that they are moving to Chicago and are going to move two houses down from theirs. To this, Jack and Dina say they will move too, because if they want to be close to their grandchildren too, which Bernie and Roz are delighted about, although both Pam and Greg insist neither move.

During the credits, Jack watches a video of Greg on YouTube.
Cast

* Robert De Niro as Jack Tiberius Byrnes
* Ben Stiller as Gaylord "Greg" Focker
* Owen Wilson as Kevin Rawley
* Blythe Danner as Dina Byrnes
* Teri Polo as Pamela "Pam" Focker
* Dustin Hoffman as Bernard "Bernie" Focker
* Barbra Streisand as Rosalind "Roz" Focker
* Jessica Alba as Andi Garcia
* Laura Dern as Prudence
* Harvey Keitel as Randy Weir
* Colin Baiocchi as Henry Focker
* Daisy Tahan as Samantha Focker

Rosario The Movie

2010-12-20T22:21:00.000-08:00

The film tells the saga of Rosario, a young and liberated Filipina in the 1920s who has just arrived from New York, and is spending her vacation in their hacienda.

There, she meets and falls in love with Vicente, an older man who manages the tobacco plantation owned by Rosario's family. When Rosario's father finds out about his daughter's scandalous affair, he sends Rosario to a convent.

She escapes, and elopes with Vicente to Manila where they raise a family. But Rosario's life of married bliss slowly crumbles when Vicente becomes ill with tuberculosis, and she is lured to committing adultery. Temptation and scandal still hound Rosario as she continues to defy the moral restrictions of her time.

Based on a true story and set in one of the most colorful periods in Philippine history, ROSARIO is destined to be a modern masterpiece in Philippine filmmaking. It is a monumental yet intimate portraitof a woman's emancipation and the sometimes painful consequencesof following one's desires.

CAST

Jennylyn Mercado--- Rosario Herrera- Rosario is a paragon of beauty and grace. She is a sophisticated, intelligent woman who dares to think liberally. The movie recounts her life from the age of 18 to 32. She is fond of reading poetry and is adept at playing the piano. A woman ahead of her time, Rosario is a passionate lady who lives her life according to her heart's desires.

Yul Servo-Vicente Perez- The 35 year old Vicente is the administrator of Tabacalera Herrera. He exudes a cultured and well-mannered aura. He loves to read poetry. He is practical, responsible, romantic and tender. Vicente is considered a true gentleman of his era.

Dennis Trillo--Alberto Fernandez- Alberto is an auto mechanic with a lower-class upbringing. Being the typical playboy that he is, he is fond of dating many women. He loves to smoke, drink and drive cars. He is sensual yet down-to-earth; rogue yet attractive.

Sid Lucero-Carding Arenas- The idealistic Carding is kindhearted but a bit naïve. Already at the age of 20, he works as a clerk in a newspaper publication and dreams of becoming a writer.

Isabel Oli-- Carmen Santos- Carmen is Rosario's cousin and best friend. The typical provinciana with very simple dreams transforms into an urbanite once she reaches Manila. She is a hopeless romantic and is passionate about her man. She secretly envies Rosario.

Dolphy--Jesus Herrera-Fernandez- At the age of 82, Jesus, the son of Rosario and Alberto narrates the film's story.

Phillip Salvador--Don Enrique Herrera is Rosario's father. Born of Portuguese-Spanish descent, he is the wealthy owner of Tabacalera Herrera, a successful tobacco company in Isabela in the 1920s. Like any traditional father, he is conservative and a bit stern. He loves his daughter but tends to overprotect her.

Eula Valdez-- Dona Adela Herrera is Rosario's loving mother. She is a subservient wife to Don Enrique Herrera. Although conservative, she is a bit lenient towards Rosario.

Ricky Davao--Señor Miguel- Miguel is already in his late 50's. He is Carding's uncle. Behind his fatherly figure and kind demeanor is a lustful man who tries to take advantage of Rosario's weakness.

Creating Bootable Vista / Windows 7 USB Flash Drive

2010-03-25T16:36:00.001-07:00

This will walk through the steps to create a bootable USB flash drive for the purpose of installing a Vista or Windows 7 OS. These instructions assume that you have a computer with Windows Vista installed on it.

Required:

USB Flash Drive (4GB+)
Microsoft OS Disk (Vista / Windows 7)
A computer running Vista / Windows 7

Step 1: Format the Drive
The steps here are to use the command line to format the disk properly using the diskpart utility. [Be warned: this will erase everything on your drive. Be careful.]

Plug in your USB Flash Drive
Open a command prompt as administrator (Right click on Start > All Programs > Accessories > Command Prompt and select “Run as administrator”
Find the drive number of your USB Drive by typing the following into the Command Prompt window:
DISKPART
LIST DISK
The number of your USB drive will listed. You’ll need this for the next step. I’ll assume that the USB flash drive is disk 1.
Format the drive by typing the next instructions into the same window. Replace the number “1” with the number of your disk below.
SELECT DISK 1
CLEAN
CREATE PARTITION PRIMARY
SELECT PARTITION 1
ACTIVE
FORMAT FS=NTFS
ASSIGN
EXIT
When that is done you’ll have a formatted USB flash drive ready to be made bootable.

Step 2: Make the Drive Bootable
Next we’ll use the bootsect utility that comes on the Vista or Windows 7 disk to make the flash drive bootable. In the same command window that you were using in Step 1:

Insert your Windows Vista / 7 DVD into your drive.
Change directory to the DVD’s boot directory where bootsect lives:
D:
CD D:\BOOT
Use bootsect to set the USB as a bootable NTFS drive prepared for a Vista/7 image. I’m assuming that your USB flash drive has been labeled disk G:\ by the computer:
BOOTSECT /NT60 G:
You can now close the command prompt window, we’re done here.

Step 3: Copy the installation DVD to the USB drive
The easiest way is to use Windows explorer to copy all of the files on your DVD on to the formatted flash drive. After you’ve copied all of the files the disk you are ready to go.

Step 4: Set your BIOS to boot from USB
This is where you’re on your own since every computer is different. Most BIOS’s allow you to hit a key at boot and select a boot option.

Pacquiao Clottey Fight

2010-03-13T19:39:00.001-08:00

Pacquiao wins!

Official scores:

120/108 - 119/109 - 119/109

Unanimous Decision

3/14/2010

Manny Pacquiao vs. Joshua Clottey LIVE Streaming

2010-03-13T18:55:00.000-08:00

Manny Pacquiao vs. Joshua Clottey LIVE Streaming

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Location:
Cowboys Stadium
Arlington, Texas
USA.

Should you wish to watch the Pacquiao-Clottey fight using SopCast, please try the following SopCast channels:

sop://broker1.sopcast.com:3912/65154
sop://broker.sopcast.com:3912/24267

For information about SopCast, CLICK HERE

Windows7 God Mode

2010-02-22T00:39:00.001-08:00

To enter "GodMode," one need only create a new folder and then rename the folder to the following:

GodMode.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}

Once that is done, the folder's icon will change to resemble a control panel and will contain dozens of control options. I'm not sure it's my idea of playing God, but it is a handy way to get to all kinds of controls.

Red Ribbon's New Christmas Cakes

2009-12-04T06:14:00.000-08:00

Red Ribbon recently introduced 2 New Wonderful Cakes especially for the holiday season.

First is the Santa's Wish Cake This adorable looking cake is made with moist and dense rhumbutter with caramel filling and covered with smooth icing. Kids will surely love the gumpaste christmas trees that adorn the cake. It's a very light yet sweet decadent cake that will surely make the lucky recipient very important.

This cake is available on a pre-order basis at any Red Ribbon store from November 27 to December 15. Furthermore, The Santa's Wish Cake will be available off-the-shelf in all Red Ribbon stores from December 22-24 at only P550.

.Finished with dark chocolate ganache, sprinkles and Red Ribbon describes this one as creamy chocolate mousse on moist fudgy brownie, loaded with walnuts and made more irresistible with Hershey's Dark Chocolatelong chocolate curls all made with Hershey's Dark Chocolate to make it even more irresistible.Heavenly is not even close to describe how the taste feels like.

One tip: We were told this cake is best kept in the FREEZER. And serve it straight out of the freezer and eat with a piping hot mug of coffee.

The Chocolate Walnut Fudge cake is only available till January 9, 2010 and sells for only P680

Anchor Recipes

2009-11-30T05:24:00.000-08:00

Fonterra is a leading multinational dairy company, owned by 11,600 New Zealand dairy farmers. It prides itself with delighting consumers through dairy products that are nutritious, innovative and taste great. Operating in more than 140 countries, it supplies more than 40% of the world's milk. It leverages on New Zealand's commitment to high quality and to the protection and betterment of the environment through its leading brands Anchor, Anlene, Anmum, Mainland and Perfect Italiano.

Anchor butter from grass-fed, free-range cows has a richer taste versus barn raised non grass fed animals. Butter from grass fed cows is higher in Omega 3, Beta Carotene and Vitamin A.

Free Range
Means cows are feed on grass only, 365 days of the year. Therefore no grain, artificial feed or meat & bone meal is feed to cows on New Zealand’s farms.
Means naturally raised and humane living conditions for cows 24/7.

No Hormones
The New Zealand government prohibits the use of animal growth hormones in dairy, sheep and beef farming. There is mounting evidence that growth hormones can adversely affect the heath of cattle and humans. Made for 100% from fresh milk. Their milk is collected twice a day from the farm. Not made by reconstituting milk power and anhydrous milk fat.

AnchorRecipes.com was put together to house the online community of food lovers, particularly those who love dishes and cakes, among others, made with Anchor. This is a venue for us to share our tried and tested recipes with you and in turn encourage you to share your own recipes to the rest of the Anchor community. Beyond recipes, we will share news, tips, pictures, and much more about Anchor, cooking, and food!

Jollibee MaAga ang Pasko conducts clean-up activities

2009-11-29T05:33:00.000-08:00

From November to December, a happy buzz fills a big Makati warehouse as hundreds of volunteers of the 15th Jollibee MaAga ang Pasko campaign prepare toys and books for distribution to Filipino children this Christmas. They are all Jolly Toy Scouts, Jollibee MaAga ang Pasko volunteers from partner schools, companies and other organizations, who are sharing their time to help clean the collected toys and books for the chosen beneficiaries.

“By giving their time to making old toys and books look new again and by helping package them into gifts, these volunteers are helping make Christmas happen,” says Albert Cuadrante, VP for Jollibee Marketing. “Through their participation in the MaAga ang Pasko clean-up activities, the volunteers are bringing happiness back into the lives of kids, including those who have been affected by the recent typhoons,” he adds.

This year’s clean-up volunteers include students from more than 50 partner schools, as well as volunteers from the media, Hands On Manila, the Boy Scouts of the Philippines and employees from, Land Bank of the Philippines, Publicis Jimenez Basic, McCann Erickson, Universal McCann, Stratworks, Inc. and Worklink, Inc. as well as Jollibee Foods Corporation and Jollibee Foundation. For their part, Teves Dry Cleaning and Steam Laundry, Ahyi the Professional Housekeepers Inc. and Quick Minds Corporation (Let’s Talk Dirty Laundry and Dry Cleaning) have lent their resources and expertise to make sure that thetoys and books are clean and as good as new before they are given to beneficiaries. This is the second time that Jollibee is mounting a clean-up activity. Last year, a total of 187,000 toys and books were cleaned with the help of 113 volunteers.

Clean toys bring great joys. Complete with their cleaning kits, this year’s clean-up volunteers are extra enthusiastic as Jollibee promised to match every donation with a Jollibee toy, thus doubling the amount of gifts given to even more children. Children in the typhoon-affected areas will also be part of the beneficiaries, apart from those in institutions affiliated with the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

For six weeks, the Jolly Toy Scouts will take turns and spend many hours washing, sorting and packing the donated toys and books, with filled boxes occupying the warehouse, floor to ceiling.
As soon as the donations arrive, they are segregated into new and old. Old toys that are incomplete or damaged are discarded. Those in good condition are then sorted according to type—stuffed toys, books, school supplies and plastics. They are dusted, washed and dried before they are classified once again into three categories: male, female and unisex. They are then turned in for final inspection before they find their way into the MaAga containers. In the end, boxes and boxes oftoys and books are ready to bring happiness and cheer to girls and boys, including those in calamity-stricken areas such as Marikina, Pasig, Taguig, Laguna, Antipolo and Muntinlupa.

Aga Muhlach himself will join the MaAga ang Pasko Caravan to help distribute the toys and books on December 2, 7, and 14 in the select areas around Metro Manila.
“The biggest reward is really seeing the happiness that lights up the faces of these kids once they get their toys and books. For many people, these are just toys and books, but to them—especially in light of the recent calamities—these are reminders that there are people who care about them, and that is something that every child needs to grow positive,” shares the actor.
Jollibee MaAga ang Pasko, the country’s biggest and longest-running toy and book donation drive is still accepting toys and books until December 20. Help make a difference and be a Jolly Toy Scout simply by bringing your donations to your nearest Jollibee store.

HBC Tatak Exclusibo Sale: The Gift of Beauty

2009-11-28T05:13:00.000-08:00

They say in gift-giving, it’s the thought that counts most of all. And for this season, the most beautiful thought behind the present comes with an exclusive seal.

In their commitment to bring beauty to all, top beauty, health, and personal care retailer HBC brings to every Filipino wonderful treats with their value-for-money, quality products. And in this year’s Tatak Exclusibo Trunk Sale, loyal patrons of HBC are about to get first dibs in the holiday’s best beauty deals.

As a way of saying thank you to their top customers, the store is giving fifty HBC Exclusives members the best Christmas present: a chance to be part of their private year-ender sale. During the event, attendees will get discounts to the brand’s product lines – which will include the best-selling SanSan Cosmetics, Allue My First, Hortaleza M.D., and Hortaleza Professional, as well as mingle with famous local celebrities, such as Anne Curtis.

“HBC wants everyone to realize that looking good need not mean breaking the bank or compromising quality,” says Allue Ang Hortaleza, the company’s product development head and chief of staff. “And as a gesture to show how much we appreciate those who believe in our mission of bringing beauty for all, we’re rewarding our loyal patrons by inviting them to this special event.”

With their value-for-money, top-class beauty products, HBC brings to the market brands which are not only at par with imported, high-quality cosmetics but are also proudly Filipino. These products were specially borne out of HBC’s sensitivity to the Filipino market’s needs.

“We always take into account that our products are well-suited to our target market,” says Ang Hortaleza. “As a Filipino company, we make sure that each line we develop takes into consideration our market’s unique traits – like Filipino skin having more moisture, for one.”

World Bazaar Gives the Gift of Pasig River Rehabilitation

2009-11-27T08:09:00.000-08:00

What do you want for Christmas?

Filipinos would probably ask for the latest gadgets, high-end clothes or a luxe trip abroad. But Worldbex Services International through the World Bazaar Festival 2009, is giving Filipinos a Christmas gift that they probably wouldn’t ask for—but a gift that they definitely need.

In its 9th year, World Bazaar Festival will give the gift of Pasig River rehabilitation to Filipinos via an initiative called Kapit Bisig sa Ilog Pasig. The project which aims to rehabilitate the moribund 17-kilometer river system, top-bills a partnership between Worldbex Services International and ABS-CBN Network.

“It’s no exaggeration to say that World Bazaar is a place where Filipinos can get the best gifts for their family and friends. And this is why it’s considered as the grandest and most attended of all Christmas bazaars,” notes Joseph Ang, Founding Chairman of Worldbex Services International. “But this year, we’ve decided to give something back—now we’re the ones giving Filipinos a gift for Christmas.”

Part of the proceeds and net of costs of this year’s World Bazaar Festival will go Kapit Bisig sa Ilog Pasig. So from December 4-16 at the World Trade Center Manila, participants in the largest Christmas bazaar in the country will not only get the best holiday finds with the over 600,000 booths, they’ll also get the chance to help clean the Pasig River.

“ Full rehabilitation of the Pasig River is a tall order but we have to start somewhere. One can can always look to the experience of the Seine, Thames, Hudson and Danube waterways,” says Ang. He notes how these also went through a long and tedious process of resuscitation before becoming the ‘grand rivers’ they are today. “I’m very confident that there’s hope for the Pasig River yet.”

Kapit Bisig Para sa Ilog Pasig is the most comprehensive and ambitious effort to clean Pasig River to date. It has charted a seven-year campaign to tackle pollution, help relocate informal settlers, provide livelihood opportunities and launch a major information campaign.

They also envision the implementation of a 10-meter easement to pave the way for the execution of its projects. The plan has identified vacant lots and blighted areas which, when cleared, are prime sites for urban renewal projects. There willalso be 10 parks along the 27-km stretch of the Pasig , four more bridges, a ferry system and parallel modes of transportation.

“Pasig River restored, no, elevated to what Kapit Bisig sa Ilog Pasig initiative envision it to become is a sight to see,” says Ang. “And with the success of this project, we can proudly say we not only give Filipinos a place to source the best Christmas gifts, we also give them one of the most relevant gifts that they can ever receive.
For more information, SMS/call Mr. Mike Bayonito or Carlos Polangcos at + 639228354735/ +639189424303 or call through landlines (02) 5343615, 5341332, 5341334, 5316350, 5316374 starting July 25, 2009

Singapore Expo to accelerate growth of Traditional Medicine in ASEAN

2009-11-26T04:33:00.000-08:00

With the trend towards a healthy lifestyle on the rise, so is the demand for natural products like traditional medicine (TM). Just over the last five years, China exports of traditional medicine to the ASEAN region have increased by more than 150 percent from US$81.36 million in 2004 to US$210.80 million in 2008.

Aside from its being a natural and holistic alternative to western medicine, traditional medicine's affordability, accessibility, effectiveness, and long heritage are the factors driving the growth of the industry.

An inaugural exposition to be held in Singapore aims to further accelerate the growth of the TM sector by providing a platform for TM organizations from the region to showcase the latest in patent medicine, raw herbs, herbal extracts, health supplements, health care and therapy, as well as equipment and related services.

Jointly organized by Singapore TCM Organizations Committee (STOC) and the Singapore TCM College, the Traditional Medicine Expo (TMExpo) 2009 will be held from December 4-6, 2009 at the Suntec City International Convention and Exhibition, Singapore.

Said Mr. Lee Tiong Sa, Chairman of STOC, “The organization of TMExpo 2009 is very timely as the governments of the various ASEAN countries work towards the establishment of an ASEAN common market, and to harmonize the regulatory system for Traditional Medicine and Health Supplements for the region by 2015.”

Trade visitors looking to gain a deeper understanding of the latest developments and regulatory systems for traditional medicine in the various countries in the region will definitely gain invaluable insights at the TM Expo 2009 conference; the one-and-a-half day conference will feature an esteemed panel of speakers hailing from national health organizations, industry associations, and prestigious educational institutions in the region.

Two Filipino experts, Dr. Rainier Villanueva, President of the Chamber of Herbal Industries of the Philippines, and Mrs Melody Zamudio, Food-Drug Regulation Officer III, Food & Drug Administration, Philippines, will join the roster of speakers at the TM Expo Conference.

As the conference is expected to attract 200-250 overseas business practitioners, it will offer excellent opportunities for corporate networking and potential business collaboration.

According to Dr. Villanueva, “The conference programme will serve to strengthen understanding of the government regulatory policies for Traditional Medicine in the various markets in the region as well as key trends driving the growth in the sector. I am confident that industry players will be able to glean insightful information which can help them explore untapped opportunities and venture into new markets.”

In addition to showcasing the latest on traditional medicine in the region, TM Expo 2009 will also feature exhibitors from China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, and the U.S.

These regional companies find TM Expo 2009 as an opportunity to launch their products and services.

According to Dato Dr Pa Nok Ching of Malaysia's Jin Bin Corporation Sdn Bhd, “As the up and coming regional TM hub in Asia, Singapore is the perfect location to introduce our company and launch some of our products to a regional audience. We are also hoping to identify potential working partners and overseas business prospects.”

The TM Expo is supported by International Enterprise Singapore, the Singapore Ministry of Health, SPRING Singapore, the Singapore Tourism Board, and corporate sponsor Eu Yan Sang.

For more details about the expo, please visit www.tmxpo.com.

Worldbex and ABS-CBN Team Up for Biggest Christmas Bazaar

2009-11-25T19:03:00.000-08:00

It’s a true meeting of equals.

ABS-CBN, the Philippines biggest television network and Worldbex Services International, the country’s most successful exhibit organizer come together for the first time to present the longest-running and most successful Christmas bazaar in the country – the World Bazaar Festival.

“In the World Bazaar Festival, we consider everyone from the organizers, exhibitors to the sponsors – to be part of one family. And it’s because we share the common goal of offering Filipino holiday shoppers with the ultimate shopping paradise,” says Joseph Ang, Founding Chairman of Worldbex Services International.

And Ang believes that in their 9^th year, a significant dimension has been added to the World Bazaar Festival family. “We’re now officially partners with the biggest network in the country, ABS-CBN. You can say that Worldbex Services International, through the World Bazaar Festival is now a certified “kapamilya.”

Kapamilya Values

Ang shares that part of the proceeds and net of costs of this year’s World Bazaar Festival will go to Kapit Bisig sa Ilog Pasig. The project which aims to rehabilitate the moribund 17-kilometer river system, top-bills a partnership between Worldbex Services International and ABS-CBN Network.

“It’s no exaggeration to say that World Bazaar is a place where Filipinos can get the best gifts for their family and friends. And this is why it’s considered as the grandest and most attended of all Christmas bazaars,” notes Ang. “But this year, we’ve decided to give something back—now we’re the ones giving Filipinos a gift for Christmas.”

So from December 4-16 at the World Trade Center Manila, participants in the largest Christmas bazaar in the country will not only get the best holiday finds with the over 600 booths, they’ll also get the chance to help clean the Pasig River.

Kapamilya Fun

But still at the core of World Bazaar Festival is their thrust of offering Filipino holiday shoppers with the biggest and grandest Christmas bazaar in the country.

Of course, the partnership between ABS-CBN network and World Bazaar Festival will be nothing without the famed Kapamilya stars.

With this in mind, the 14-day event will especially feature a special Celebrity Village where shoppers can interact, meet and even buy items from their favorite stars. The village will feature artists and celebrities from network giant ABS-CBN and a variety of entertaining shows, numbers and booths put up by the hottest local actors and actresses, such as George and Cecil’s Judy Ann Santos, Ryan Agoncillo, Gladys Reyes and Christopher Roxas, Umagang Kay Ganda’s Rica Peralejo and Donita Rose, ASAP’s G-Force Dancers and Sheryn Regis, Pinoy Dream Academy’s Cris Pastor and Miguel Mendoza, TV Patrol’s Phoemela Baranda and Gretchen Fullido, Wowowee’s Mariel Rodriguez, Pinoy Big Brother’s Nene Tamayo, Bea Saw, Ruben Gonzaga and Jason Gainza, and Banana Split’s Pokwang, among many others.

“It’s both a privilege and a challenge for us to be partnering with ABS-CBN,” quips Ang. “And we see this partnership as an affirmation that our goal of offering Filipino holiday shoppers with the ultimate shopping paradise is something that’s really worth pursuing

Joseph Ang, Founding Chairman of the Worldbex Services International (WSI) shares that part of the proceeds and net of costs of this year’s World Bazaar Festival will go to Kapit Bisig sa Ilog Pasig. The project which aims to rehabilitate the moribund 17-kilometer river system, top-bills a partnership between Worldbex Services International and ABS-CBN Network.

Gift solutions this Christmas at SM Makati

2009-11-24T07:51:00.000-08:00

Last November 16, 2009, SM Department Store Makati officially opened its doors to its recently upgraded beauty section. New and exclusive brands join the roster of all time favorites, making Beauty by SM the perfect shopping destination – all you have to do is pick and purchase.

Upgrade your shopping experience this Christmas

During the holiday rush, beating the crowds can be one of the most daunting experiences for Manila shoppers. Thankfully, the recently revamped beauty section at SM Makati makes shopping easy and hassle-free.

“This holiday season, we have two reasons to celebrate,” said Victoria Encarnacion, Business Unit Director of Beauty by SM. “The first is the opening of our flagship store at SM Makati. At Beauty by SM, we are dedicated to keeping you looking and feeling beautiful and staying true to our promise of providing every customer with nothing but the best shopping experience. This is why we have created a whole new look and incorporated a more spacious design and feel to our beauty section. Another unique element we have is a dedicated Men’s Zone. Armed with a complete roster of personal care products specifically designed for men’s needs, Men’s Zone is a unique offering we have that we are certain will appeal to both men and women this Christmas and beyond.”

“Our second reason to celebrate is our wide range of holiday offerings,” she continued. “Along with revamping our store’s look and feel, we always ensure that our shelves offer nothing but the best cosmetics, fragrances, skincare, personal care, and wellness brands in the country. This year, every shopper who enters Beauty by SM will most certainly find gift ideas for their family and friends. Coupled with the new design of our flagship store, Beauty by SM is the perfect shopping destination this Christmas.”

Gift solutions at Beauty by SM

This Christmas, solutions to all your shopping woes come in an extensive range of Cosmetics, Fragrances, Health, Wellness, and Personal Care brands that make perfect presents for mothers, fathers, friends, and colleagues.

New skincare brands Tri-aktiline and Clinelle join Pond’s, L’ Oreal, and Olay to make Beauty by SM a haven for skincare. All time favorites Watsons Own Label and Exclusives make a mélange of great gift choices when looking for hair, body, and skin care Christmas presents. Sure to put a smile on the faces of sisters and girlfriends are Beauty by SM’s Cosmetics counters full of special treats from Revlon, Lola, and Covergirl, while Fragrance Gift Sets from Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Givenchy, Hugo Boss, and Lacoste make scent-sational, ready-to-give Christmas gifts.

Every customer is invited to join and see for themselves the all-new, all-improved beauty section of SM Makati’s Department Store.

Pushcart educator named CNN Hero of the Year

2009-11-23T07:48:00.000-08:00

Efren Peñaflorida, who started a "pushcart classroom" in the Philippines to bring education to poor children as an alternative to gang membership, has been named the 2009 CNN Hero of the Year.

CNN's Anderson Cooper revealed Peñaflorida's selection at the conclusion of the third-annual "CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute" at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood on Saturday night.

The gala event, taped before an audience of 3,000 at the Kodak Theatre, premieres on Thanksgiving, November 26, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on the global networks of CNN.

The broadcast, which honors the top 10 CNN Heroes of 2009, features performances by Grammy Award-winning artist Carrie Underwood, R&B crooner Maxwell and British pop sensation Leona Lewis.

Peñaflorida, who will receive $100,000 to continue his work with the Dynamic Teen Company, was selected after seven weeks of online voting at CNN.com. More than 2.75 million votes were cast.

"Our planet is filled with heroes, young and old, rich and poor, man, woman of different colors, shapes and sizes. We are one great tapestry," Peñaflorida said upon accepting the honor. "Each person has a hidden hero within, you just have to look inside you and search it in your heart, and be the hero to the next one in need.

"So to each and every person inside in this theater and for those who are watching at home, the hero in you is waiting to be unleashed. Serve, serve well, serve others above yourself and be happy to serve. As I always tell to my co-volunteers ... you are the change that you dream as I am the change that I dream and collectively we are the change that this world needs to be."

This record number of nominations is further evidence of the momentum CNN Heroes has built in just a few short years," said Jim Walton, president of CNN Worldwide."Viewers have been engaged by these stories of inspiration and accomplishment beyond our expectations. It is truly an honor to be able to introduce the CNN Heroes to our global audience every year." Again this year, producer/director Joel Gallen served as executive producer of "CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute." Among his credits, Gallen produced telethon events supporting victims of the September 11 terrorist attacks and Hurricane Katrina, winning an Emmy Award and a Peabody Award for "America: A Tribute to Heroes."

Read more about his beginnings here

The Importance of Sleep in Babies

2009-11-22T07:46:00.000-08:00

All living creatures need sleep. Sleeping gives people and all living creatures the time for the body to recuperate and regenerate. Human babies need a full eight hours of sleep and naps in between. The body uses sleep as a way to regenerate cells and refresh the brain and overall aids in the development of our body, mind, and health. During our sleep, the human body can regenerate hair follicles, fingernails, toenails and even the outer covering of the skin. This happens because of the automatic pilot that is built into our bodies. People tend to think that the body

only needs to recharge spent energy on the day's work but in truth the body works the regeneration cycle much faster when the brain does not control much action.Babies therefore need their sleeping time to develop muscles, limbs, and skeletal structure. In order to achieve a good night's sleep for your baby, it is important that your baby have comfortable and inviting bedding. The secret to a good bed is one that feels just right. Beds that are to big may make your little one feel insecure. Your baby's bed should be cozy and offer security for them to get a good night sleep. Selecting the proper bedding should also be a concern. The bedding should be easy to touch and feel cozy. Bedding that is to stiff or even to fluffy decreases your baby's comfort level and therefore reduces his/her sleep time. We would want our babies to enjoy their beds and consider it a place of security.

Try to make your baby's sleeping experience a pleasant one. Bedding should be inviting to the eye. There are so many wonderful patterns and fabrics on the market today that choosing the right bedding should not be to difficult. Remember that your baby needs enough rest to stimulate his/her growth and development and when this is achieved, your baby can reach his full potential.

As a new mom, there is nothing more comforting than watching your baby peacefully drift off to dreamland.

But moms, here is yet another reason your child´s sleep is important. Because after all, sleep is more than just rest for your baby. Did you know that sleep fuels your baby´s growth? Growth requires several hormones to stimulate your baby´s organs, muscles and bones. Key is a protein hormone called the “growth hormone”.

Several factors affect the production of growth hormones, including nutrition, stress and exercise. But in babies, the most important factor is sleep. Although growth hormones are released throughout the day, for babies, the most intense period of release is shortly after the beginning of deep sleep. So moms, the better the quality of your baby´s sleep, the more growth hormones are released!

Moms, did you also know that growth hormones are most hard working in babies?

In fact, in the first year of life, growth hormones are actively working at 3 times the normal rate. So when you encourage good sleep in your baby, you are not only helping your baby establish beneficial lifelong habits, you are also giving her the best start in life!

Below are some general guidelines as to how many hours of sleep the average child requires at various ages.

If your baby´s sleep pattern is within or close to this general framework, then you can rest easy knowing your baby rests easy.

If not, then don´t worry. There are numerous ways you can help to “sleep-train” your baby to make sure she gets the sleep that she needs. By improving the quality of sleep, your baby will be able to fall asleep faster and experience a significant decrease in night time awakenings.

Set the tone of your bedtime routine with a nice warm bath or even a simple ´punas´ with JOHNSON´S^® Baby Bedtime Bath. The warmth of the water, coupled with your gentle, lathering touch will soothe baby, while giving you a moment of light play. Once you´ve established this as a regular nighttime routine, the bath will signal your baby that she´s on her way to bed.

Enjoy the moment... your baby definitely will!

Click here to know the best way to bathe your baby.

Turn up some relaxing music and get baby in the mood for a soothing massage. Lay her down on a comfortable flat surface. Spread JOHNSON´S^® Baby Bedtime Baby Lotion on your palms then stroke her with a gentle, downward motion. You can vary your motions by tracing letters of endearments like “I Love You” on her belly.

This will not only get your baby ready for sleep, infant massage or Touch Therapy also has clinically proven benefits and has been shown to contribute to healthy weight gain, improve babies´immunity and calm then when they are irritable.

Also available to use with JOHNSON´S^® Baby Oil.

Click here to learn how to give your baby a massage.

Now is the time for some quiet moments with your baby. You may apply JOHNSON´S^® Baby Powder before you begin quiet time. This is the perfect moment for you and your baby to share your most intimate moments while you hush her to sleep.

Read your baby a bedtime story and let rhyme and rhythm hush her to sleep. You can also spend this quiet time talking softly to your baby, or singing a lullaby. Your voice, familiar to her from birth, will cradle her into dreamland.

Click here to learn more about the JOHNSON´S^® Baby Bedtime Range.

Body Combat Marathon Challenge

2009-11-21T07:44:00.000-08:00

The desire to stay healthy and fit is well received by most. The problem lies in finding excitement in exercise routines that will encourage participants to stick with the program. Staying true to its mission of providing innovative fitness programs that adds spice and flair to working out, Fitness First brings the 2009 Body Combat Challenge: Muay Thai Wars.

Now on its fourth year, the 2009 Body Combat Marathon Challenge brings together martial arts enthusiasts who have enjoyed the Body Combat program. The 2009 Body Combat Marathon Challenge is a venue where participants can unleash their inner warrior and exhibit their best moves, skills and improvised techniques from the steps they have learned. Being a non-combat martial arts based fitness program with moves drawn from Karate, Taekwondo, KungFu, kickboxing, Tai Chi, andMuay Thai, Body Combat provides an exhilarating exercise experience that delivers ultra-fast fitness results.

“Fitness First is dedicated to motivating people not just to improve their overall health by providing them with top of the line equipment and exciting group exercises. By bringing annual competitions like the 2009 Body Combat Marathon, provide people a venue where they can showcase their skills and improve their health,” said Mark Ellis, Country Manager,Fitness First Philippines “Body Combat is an empowering cardio workout where participants are completely unleashed. With driving music and inspiring, world-class Fitness First trainers, we assure participants of meeting their fitness goals and having fun at the same time,” adds Ellis

Every year, Fitness First ensures that each Body Combat marathon will be more challenging and difficult than the last. This year, the Body Combat marathon challenge focuses on Muay Thai, bringing the best of the best from different clubs to face-off their best moves and skews. Eighteen of the most difficult Muay Thai tracks will be featured, upping the level of difficulty as the Muay Thai tracks are considered the height of the exercise in a Body Combat track.

Teams from all 18 Fitness First clubs nationwide competed to make it to the finals. Categories include individual, tribe and club. The individual category will focus on form, endurance and power while the tribe category on form, power and creativity. The best club category will be determinedfrom the combined scores of the individual and tribe categories. Participants are a mix of Fitness First members and non-club members who registered at a Fitness First club.

Out of the hundreds who vied for the top slot in a two-week elimination round last October, only the best 12 members were selected to represent their chosen club. From the twelve, they will be divided into two categories – the individual and tribe. The four hour final marathon challenge night however will require the teams to inject artistry, originality, creativity, and fitness magic in their delivery and execution of theBody Combat tracks without veering away from the basics that comprise the essence of Body Combat.

The marathon will be paneled and judged by a roster of several sports and martial art aficionados, - A Les Mills certified International Body Jam Trainor; Arnold Warren, the Senior Group Exercise Manager; Leonard Velez and Michael Abacan, Certified Les MillsBody Combat ,Pump and Balance Instructor and a Full time International Chef Kerwin Go, Designer and Official Main Event Designer, Stylist Alecs Porras who is also aBody Combat/RPM Enthusiast, A group from Elorde Boxing and Muay Thai Federation Champions composed of Alfredo Tenaja Jr, Jerson Palaci Estoro, Alfe Jay Tenaja, Dwan Abantao, Francis Caldeza, Bernard Alvarez, Francis Benito and Miss Cucuy Elorde.

Winners of the Body Combat Marathon Challenge: Muay Thai wars will be awarded the following. For individual category, winners will get 10k worth of Nike products, 5K worth of Crocs, 5K worth of Amazing Touch Skine Service, 5K worth of Rescuederm Services, 1 Silverworks necklace, and products from Powerade, SanMarino, Whealth, Nesvita, Greenstone , Nova, and Gardenia

For Best Tribe, 20k worth of Nike products, 7K worth of Crocs, 7K worth of Amazing Touch Skine Service, 7K worth of Rescuederm Services, 7 Silverworks necklaces, and products from Powerade, SanMarino, Whealth, Nesvita, Greenstone , Nova, and Gardenia.

And for the Best Club category, winners will get 50K worth of Nike Products, 15K worth of Crocs, 10K worth of Amazing Touch Skin Services, 10K worth of Rescuderm Services, 13 Glass Trophies from Pacific Glass, 13 Silverworks Necklaces, and products from Powerade, SanMarino, Whealth, Nesvita, Greenstone , Nova, and Gardenia.

For more information log on to www.fitnessfirst.com.ph

National Geographic Channel launches Big Blue exhibit in Manila

2009-11-17T06:15:00.000-08:00

National Geographic Channel, in partnership with Ayala Malls and The Mind Museum, unveiled a life-size sculpture of the world’s biggest baby blue whale in Manila. This is the last stop of the Asian tour that aims to further public understanding of blue whales. Blue whales are the largest creature to ever inhabit the earth. Bigger than the greatest dinosaurs, they weigh up to 200 tons and extend up to 30 meters.

The Big Blue Exhibition will take visitors into the world of the magnificent blue whales. The sophisticated sculpture will be the highlight of the event. It is a life-like rendering of a nine-meter long, two-month old, female blue whale that was created by a team of professional model makers in Australia.

The exhibition also includes expert sharing sessions, conservation and education activities, and a feature writing competition. It features never-before-seen footages from National Geographic’s groundbreaking documentary,

The Big Blue Exhibition will run in five different venues on the following dates: Glorietta 5, November 17-26; Trinoma Mall, November 28-December 11; Alabang Town Center, January 4-17; Market! Market!, January 18-February 2; and Greenbelt Mall, February 3-17

“The National Geographic Channel is delighted to launch Asia’s first Blue Whale Exhibition in Manila, in partnership with Ayala Malls and the Mind Museum. We hope that this inspiring encounter with this majestic creature will spark imaginations and further interest in marine conservation and how oceans relates closely to the well-being of humans,” said Sonia Jackson, senior vice president for marketing and general manager for Hong Kong and the Philippines of Fox International Channel, the mother company of National Geographic Channel.

The Ayala Malls, led by Ayala Group senior vice president Marivic Anonuevo, is committed to support the National Geographic’s efforts to encourage Filipinos to care for this beautiful creature and raise awareness of marine conservation in the Philippines.

Learn from the expert

National Geographic and The Mind Museum have invited local marine mammal scientist Dr. Arnel Andrew Yaptinchay to host special sharing sessions to inspire students and visitors of the Big Blue Exhibition.

Dr. Yaptinchay is one of the volunteer scientists providing advice on some exhibits for the museum. He is involved in conservation initiatives on threatened marine species such as the whale shark, cetaceans, and dugong in the Philippines. Dr. Yaptinchay has once served as director for the Species Conservation Program of World Wide Fund-Philippines. He will share his experiences with local audiences and answer questions.

Showing on National Geographic Channel 18 November at 7 pm, 21 November at 11 am, and 22 November at 8 pm, the two-hour Big Blue special is the first documentary to uncover the mysteries of the blue whale.

The special features never-before-seen moments in the life of blue whales, with stunning first-time footage of a blue whale calf and its mother and amazing shots of an adult blue whale singing.

Audiences will also get a unique whale’s view through an advanced technology developed by National Geographic called CRITTERCAM®, which allows unprecedented access into the animal kingdom without human interference.

This state-of-the-art research device was attached to a blue whale’s back to record footages of the animal as it travels deep into the ocean to allow scientists to study its behaviors.

For more information about the Big Blue Multimedia Exhibition and the Big Blue documentary, please visit http://www.ngcasia.com/programmes/blue-whale

Abot Tanaw

2009-11-16T05:20:00.000-08:00

INTERNATIONAL boxing champion Manny Pacquiao has been known to unite Filipinos. And as his coming fight inches even closer, he is once again bringing Filipinos here and abroad together. This is exactly why he has decided to support and become a member of Abot Tanaw, a video conferencing service facility aimed at bridging the literal gaps between Filipino families free of charge, both here in the country or abroad.

Abot Tanaw is a facility that offers voice and video calling services to Filipinos abroad, in the provinces and their families.

Just like Pacquiao, Abot Tanaw also seeks to unite Filipinos through its free video conferencing services for OFWs, local migrants and their families.

“We Filipinos are very close to our families and loved ones. We always think about them when we are far from them. So when we miss them, we always look for a way to talk to each other more often. Kailangan natin silang makita kahit sandali,” Manny said.

Manny is happy that Abot Tanaw is now available to Filipinos saying he hopes “that more will actually take advantage of the opportunity being given to them especially because it is free.”

The boxing ring icon has been a mainstay in various international “most influential persons” lists. Pacquiao is now Abot Tanaw’s standard-bearer in providing free and available communications for Pinoys in Metro Manila, the provinces as well as abroad.

“Our international pound for pound champion Manny Pacquiao has always been a great role model for the country. He has greatly contributed to uniting the Filipinos and that is what Abot Tanaw is all about. And we are really glad that he has shown great interest in our concept and efforts of putting a high regard for our modern day heroes, for in effect he is a hero to our nation’s pride,” says Abot Tanaw CEO Kim Go.

High-tech Communication

Though Abot Tanaw is pretty new since its soft launch last June, it has been in the forefront of providing free telecommunications and video-conferencing services to Pinoys here with their families overseas. Just recently, it started offering its services to local migrants. So Manila-based workers can also access Abot Tanaw’s services to get in touch with their relatives and families in the provinces.

Abot Tanaw’s system utilizes Web-based technologies to provide free communication access for families, without the need for expensive mobile and Internet subscriptions and investments in hardware. The service provides seamless video conferencing and Web-enabled phone transmission powered by PLDT for quality connection. Unlike voice and video applications over the Web, Abot Tanaw utilizes a highly advanced system with clear videos and crisp audio.

“We at Abot Tanaw want to provide a service platform of communication to cater to the needs of our OFWs and local migrant workers to connect with their loved ones in support of our advocacy to serve them,” says Go. “We’ve equipped our business with advanced technology to bridge this gap and we’ve offered our services for free.”

Local and International Hubs

Following a series of launch events, operational Abot Tanaw service hubs are located in SM North EDSA, SM Mall of Asia, SM Cebu, SM Pampanga and SM Davao and the NAIA Terminal I OFW Lounge.

With two international Abot Tanaw service hubs now operational, the Hongkong hub located above the Philippine Consulate General office in United Center, Admiralty, Hongkong.

Aside from Asia and Europe, local municipalities are also being eyed as the sites of more Abot Tanaw service hubs.

With this much to offer and no cost, Manny can only encourage all Filipinos, “Mag-miyembro na! Tawag at mag-abot-abot na!”

Pacquiao vs. Cotto Video Highlights

2009-11-15T18:43:00.001-08:00

Pacquiao vs. Cotto Fight Gallery

2009-11-15T18:14:00.001-08:00

Emerge as a Winner Join MTV Merge

2009-11-14T16:59:00.000-08:00

Are you a Filipino living in the Philippines who has a great singing voice? Do you think you have what it takes to make it and be a star? well you might just be the one that they're looking for check out MTV Emerge

MTV Emerge is a platform for unsigned music talent in the Philippines to showcase their talen for a shot at stardom. The grand prize being a chance to win a one-year recording contract with Jeepney Music. To work with the best in the industry

Here is the list of my top 5 Choices on MTV Emerge.

1. JC Sacramento feat A-M-B-I-T-O – SuperGirl

2.LDP feat Datu and Josef Amarra of Beatbox Philippines
What If

3.DRP – Telepono

4.JRuss And Just Hush – Drop It Down Low

5.Greedy & ANDEZ – Makes Me Love You

If you don't like my TOP 5 Picks then you can make your own selection.Visit MTV Emerge to do that you can also view all the entries there. I highly encourage you to vote for entries- Please support unsigned Filipino music talents. We have a lot of great talents just waiting to be discovered.

This An MTV Jeepney Music, and Department of Tourism collaboration . MTV Emerge not only aims to hunt for the hottest unsigned music talent from all genres of music (indie, rock, hip-hop, R&B, metal, solo artists, DJs, etc), it is also an online music community where new music from the Philippines can be discovered.

Participants from any music genre are encouraged to register and upload their profiles, photos and original music on the MTV Emerge site during the contest submission period. All entries will go through a public voting process. After which, a total of seven grand winners will be selected from the top entries on November 20 by a panel of judges including Apl.de.Ap, founder of Jeepney Music and Black Eyed Peas member.

The seven grand winners of MTV Emerge will win a one-year recording contract with Jeepney Music and mentorship under Apl.de.Ap. The contract includes artist management and promotion, digital distribution of 3 – 6 songs and a strategic marketing plan for the signed artists to break into both the Philippines and international markets.

The winners will also be invited and introduced by Apl.de.Ap at the live showcase event on November 27.

Havaianas Unveils Newest Fashion Must-Hav

2009-11-12T18:11:00.000-08:00

Genetics has gone beyond science and has found its way into fashion.

Havaianas, the world’s best rubber flip-flops, now shares its DNA to the newest addition to their family.

“True to the innovative characteristic of the brand, we are introducing a new line of bags that carry the same elements as the Havaianas flip-flops,” says Anne Gonzalez, Managing Director for Terry S.A., Inc., the exclusive distributor of Havaianas in the Philippines.

With the same sense of functional style, these new fashion statements from Havaianas showcase the basic features that define the chic brand. Aside from using the same rainbow of colors as the flip-flops’ palette, the different bag styles are subtly ingrained with distinct Havaianas elements: the rice pattern on the soles and the Greek pattern on the straps are integrated into different details of all the bag styles. Reinforcing the bag’s durability are familiar rubber elements that provide sturdy yet stylish bases, straps and locks. The round rubber buttons used to keep the flip-flops’ soles and straps together can also be found detailing the bags, locking-in the Havaianas DNA.

“The original design elements of our flip-flops are stylishly transposed to this latest must-Hav. This new collection has been meticulously designed with the same originality, creativity and style that are inherent to the brand,” says Gonzalez.

Havaianas Mega

Similar to flip-flops, an understated handbag such as the Havaianas Mega can be the most versatile item in your bag wardrobe, adding a punch of color to any outfit. Havaianas Mega comes in two orientations, with the vertical Havaianas Mega NS currently available in Navy Blue and Black, and the horizontal Havaianas Mega LO currently available in Light Green and Red. Through careful attention to detail, the solid hues of Havaianas Mega underscore flexibility without compromising fashion or style.

Havaianas Mega Printed

Havaianas Mega Printed takes the same silhouette of the Havaianas Mega and adds a playful print. With its intricate design of flip-flop flowers, the Havaianas Mega Printed currently comes in Yellow

Gray and Light Blue

Brown. The added print makes the style a perfect option for the multi-faceted modern woman with an eye for style and a need for adaptability.

Havaianas Sack

Nothing beats the functionality of a durable carry-all, and Havaianas takes it a step further with the introduction of the Havaianas Sack — perfect for men and women who prefer a simple, subtle, ever-so-versatile style. Mirroring the variety of color found in the flip-flops, this style is currently available in nine different colors - Black, Brown, Gray, Lawn Green, Light Blue, Navy Blue, Orange, Pink, and Red – and each Sack features a detachable rubber strap that you can mix and match to suit your mood and style.

Havaianas Side

Havaianas takes the basic messenger sling bag to fashionable new heights with the Havaianas Side. This style features a rubber bottom for a sturdy and unique base, while a similar rubber brace keeps the bag cover in place while adding a distinct edge to the style. Available in Black, Brown and Navy Blue, the Havaianas Side is ideal for the dynamic lifestyles of youthful and fashionable individuals who value ease and practicality.

Havaianas Tote

One can’t help but love the simple yet functional construction of the Havaianas flip-flops and now, the Havaianas Tote. By inserting a colorful printed drawstring bag into the traditional tote silhouette, this bag – currently available in Light Blue, Pink, and Yellow - provides a fashionable way to secure your essentials. Add in the internal pockets, and the Havaianas Tote is perfect for every woman whose life is filled to bursting – from the chic career woman with her pens and papers to the stylish mommy with her baby’s bottles and diapers.

Havaianas Zip

The brand’s originality and innovative spirit shines through with the introduction of the cool, new bag concept of the Havaianas Zip. With wide-open sides, and numerous pockets, the Havaianas Zip allows you to conveniently tote items you would normally hand-carry, such as skateboards, yoga mats, jackets—even puppies. Currently available in two sizes and six colors – Black, Navy Blue, Orange, Red, Pink and Yellow - the Havaianas Zip is perfect for diverse girls and guys who are willing to break out of the traditional bag mold.

Bags with Your Personality

With this newest offering, Havaianas does for bags what it did for flip-flops: it offers the fashionable set an alternative that will let them live an active and versatile lifestyle without sacrificing fun, fashion or function.

“Havaianas has always espoused the concept that style should be personal and fashion should allow one to live their vibrant lives without any obstacles,” explains Gonzalez. “Our bags fit into the wearer’s lifestyle. The wearer doesn’t have to change their lifestyle to fit the bag.”

As the Havaianas portfolio grows, its style chromosomes can’t stay in one place. And if its predecessor, the flip-flops, is anything to go by, the new bag collection from Havaianas is set to take the fashion industry by storm.

Carry the Havaianas Lifestyle at www.havaianasphilippines.com/musthavs.

The all-new Havaianas Bag Collection is out now at selected All Flip-Flops stores nationwide: Alabang Town Center, Bonifacio High Street, Glorietta 3, Greenbelt 5, SM Megamall, Ayala Center Cebu, SM City Cebu, SM City Cagayan de Oro, SM City Davao, SM City Iloilo, SM City Lipa, and SM City Naga.

One Wall One World

2009-11-11T18:44:00.000-08:00

World’s largest air cleaning paint trial shows that Boysen KNOxOUT lowers air pollution.

For the past year, the Guadalupe MRT Station has been the site of the world’s largest air cleaning paint trial. The station was painted Boysen KNOxOUT, the world’s first air cleaning paint, and data from the trial indicates that the paint on the walls is cleaning the emissions of over 30,000 vehicles that pass by the area daily. As a result, the station has earned a most unlikely distinction.

“In effect, the Guadalupe MRT Station is now the biggest air filter in the world,” says Johnson Ongking, Vice President of Pacific Paint (Boysen) Philippines, Inc. “The trial shows that KNOxOUT transforms an ordinary wall into an air purifier that helps protect people from the ill effects of air pollutants such as NOx.”

NOx, or nitrogen oxides, are harmful gases mostly generated from motor vehicle emissions. Trial data indicate that NOx levels in the vicinity of the Guadalupe MRT Station are at times over 200 micrograms per cubic meter -- a figure that’s more than 5 times that of the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation of 40 micrograms per cubic meter.

Dr. Abundio A. Balgos, M.D., MHA, Tolete-Velcek Professor of Medicine, says that these figures should be a cause for concern. “At elevated levels, NOx can impair lung function, irritate the respiratory system and, at very high levels, make breathing difficult.”

He notes that among those most at risk from the effects of NOx are vehicle drivers, traffic enforcers, field workers, garbage collectors and scavengers, and those with compromised immune systems including the children and the elderly.

NOx are highly reactive gases, and is not only a health hazard in itself, but when it combines with other gases. In the presence of sunlight, it reacts with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to form ground level ozone, more commonly known as smog. NOx also reacts with other compounds to form small particulate matter. Both smog and such particles cause respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, and reduction in lung function.

Until the introduction of KNOxOUT, there has not been a way to clean NOx once it’s in the air. In an ironic twist, Boysen Paints and its technology partner, Cristal Global, developed a paint, which has long had a reputation for fouling the air, to actually clean the air.

Cristal Global, the world’s leading producer of ultrafine titanium dioxide (TiO2), developed CristalActiv technology, which breaks down noxious air pollutants into harmless substances through an environmentally safe process called photocatalysis. The process requires only light and humidity for activation, and because the air cleaning TiO2 is merely a catalyst in the reaction, it does not get used up and is able to continuously clean the air.

Cristal Global had been the supplier company to European Union funded consortium called Photocatalytic Innovative Coatings Applications for De-Pollution Assessment (PICADA), which did small trials that showed that the technology could indeed reduce the level of air pollutants in real life settings. Cristal Global were involved in several more trials in Europe – a tunnel in Milan, a school in London, and an indoor parking lot in Paris that all showed promising results".

Cristal then worked with Boysen to do the world’s largest air cleaning paint trial in Manila. The trial was a partnership with the DOTC-MRT 3 and the MMDA, and involved painting the whole Guadalupe MRT station as well as an embankment wall opposite the station along EDSA. In all, over 6,200 sq. meters of area was painted with close to 740 liters of KNOxOUT.

The trial was overseen by Conexor, a Swedish environmental project management company and the Manila Observatory, the Philippines’ oldest scientific research institute and a leading authority on air quality studies in the country. Data analysis was done by the Philippine Institute for Pure and Applied Chemistry (PIPAC) at Ateneo de Manila University. The trial involved 18 NO2 monitors, nitrate boxes, a series of traffic counting carried out by the National Center of Transportation Studies, and a weather mast to account for meteorological factors.

Data from the trial suggests that Boysen KNOxOUT, the first commercial paint in the world with CristalActiv technology, is cleaning the air at a significantly higher rate than those achieved in European trials. Initial estimates are that the KNOxOUT used in the trial will take out over 1,3 metric tons of NOx in a year.

As the country observes the 10th year anniversary of the passage of the Clean Air Act, the need to clean the noxious air of Metro Manila has never been more urgent. A study of the World Bank and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) estimates that up to 5,000 people die prematurely due to air pollution in the metropolis every year, accounting for 1 of every 8 deaths.

“KNOxOUT not only provides every Filipino with a way to help protect themselves from the harmful effects of air pollution,” says Ongking. “It also gives everyone a chance to be part of the solution to air pollution.”

”Everytime we travel with a motor vehicle, we add things to the air that harm people. Painting a wall with KNOxOUT is one of the only ways to take out the NOx that we put in the air,” he added. “It’s like planting a tree to neutralize our carbon footprint. Now we can paint walls to neutralize our NOx footprint. Every wall is a potential air purifier.”

That’s the idea behind the company’s One Wall One World Advocacy – a way to empower people to do something against air pollution. “People feel that air pollution is beyond their control, that there’s nothing they can do about it. With KNOxOUT, we’re giving people a way to fight back, so they’re no longer powerless against air pollution.”

Every little bit counts in the fight against air pollution. A study in Europe by APHEIS (Air Pollution and Health: A European Information System) found that even very small cuts in pollution can benefit health, and a recent Harvard University study found that people living in cities where air pollution decreased in recent decades saw their life expectancy increase an average of five months as a result of cleaner air.

“We have one world and we breathe the same air; therefore we have a common responsibility to improve its quality. If everyone gets involved, we can neutralize our NOx emissions one wall at a time and make the air safer for all of us.”

To find out more about air Boysen KNOxOUT and to find out which companies and citizens are stepping up to clean our air check out www.onewalloneworld.com.

Satellite TV Options

2009-11-10T19:50:00.000-08:00

One thing that is lacking here in the Philippines is lack of variety for satellite television providers. I miss the options of watching Foodnetwork or HGTV in the morning. I miss eating my lunch while watching Game Show network or HBO On Demand shows.

My inlaws are going to the United States for a vacation and they are also thinking of permanently relocating there to be with their son in the near future. I keep telling them about Satellite tv providers that can choose from. I'm excited for them because once they start I know that they will really love the television experience . Since they are both big television watchers like me.

They will really benefit from great rates, discounts and promotions.The satellite tv provider that they will choose will give them a great rates because the competition is really very stiff. Everyone wants to grab a piece of the pie. The real winner will always be the consumer.

Tickets

2009-11-09T19:34:00.000-08:00

My inlaws finally got their wish they are going to the United States in a few weeks to spend the holidays with my brother in law. While they are still fixing their plans regarding the places that they want to visit. I wanted to give them a gift that will make their trip a memorable one.

Since they are planning to go to New York. I want them to watch either a concert or theater show or a basketball game. I can't decide between Grand Ole Opry House Tickets ,The Palace of Auburn Hills Ticket or Irving Plaza Tickets.

Hopefully I can find out within the week where they plan to stay so that can give me an idea as to what kind of tickets I want to purchase.

ABOT TANAW

2009-11-08T16:59:00.000-08:00

ABOT TANAW is a social media network that allows families separated by need to communicate with their loved ones through voice and video telephony services.

The ABOT TANAW business model operates on two unique pillars: “FREECONOMICS” & “FREEMIUM” which revolves around the concept of services provided for “free” to end-users on one side of the service spectrum, based on the “sponsorships” made by customers on the other side of the spectrum

ABOT TANAW hence provides a platform for communication services across both the end-user, who desires the need to communicate with a loved one or relative on distant shores, and a means for a service-subscriber/advertiser/sponsor to reach and communicate to the families of Filipino migrant workers.

It utilizes web-based technologies to provide valuable free communication access for families, without the need for expensive mobile and internet subscriptions and investments in hardware (computers, mobile & pc phones, etc.)

By having the capability to bridge the communication gap that divides families separated by members working overseas and distant regions in the country and providing these services at virtually no cost to end-users.

ABOT TANAW is able to deliver a strong socio-civic service to the various communities and locations it operates in.
The heart and soul of ABOT TANAW is its highly-advanced communication infrastructure and patented technologies that allows it to deliver seamless and superior web-enabled communication services in multiple locations, across expansive geographies, to multiple users.

The centerpiece of ABOT TANAW would be the SERVICE HUBS, which are technical communication centers to be located initially inside strategic SM Malls and soon in several municipalities all over the country. These HUBS will be the primary interface venues of the “social communication network” that ABOT TANAW aims to establish.

Century Corned Tuna

2009-11-07T16:25:00.000-08:00

The taste of corned beef just got sexy with new Century Corned Tuna. It’s made with delicious, Century-quality tuna that’s seasoned with a distinct smoked flavor for that corned beefy taste! It has real onion and garlic bits and best served sautéed – just like the way you prepare your favorite corned beef! Century Corned Tuna is super-packed with Omega3 DHA that’s good for mind and body. You can sauté some for a healthy breakfast.

The Spirit of Bayanihan Gets Cheesy

2009-11-06T16:32:00.000-08:00

If there’s one distinguishing feature about the Pinoy, it’s that they love a challenge. We have epic tales of Lam-Ang conquering various tasks and earning his place in the mythic pantheon of Filipino heroes. We sought our independence from Spain , from

America

and other countries that sought to subjugate us. In the 20^th century we distinguished ourselves with EDSA 1 or the first People Power Revolution. After years of preparation, not only did we have an all-Filipino team conquering Mt. Everest , but an all-Pinay team as well after a few years! These real-life victories have been underscored with a sense of joy, achievement and pride.

We also have other characteristics that define us as a nation: the achievements of our inventors and artists. Through their creativity, originality, inventiveness, ingenuity, and innovativeness, they contributed in giving the country a sense of pride. Mr. Ramon del Rosario is the man we thank for the “karaoke”. Lea Salonga defined the title role of Miss Saigon on the West End and Broadway. Rafe Totengco conquered the hearts of fashionistas all over the world with his accessories, while Brillante Mendoza triumphed in Cannes for “Kinatay.”

And when it comes to putting our country in the record books, imagination and resourcefulness is what will see our culinary geniuses through this particular task: crafting 5,000 (yes, FIVE THOUSAND) dishes out of cheese to best the previous Guinness world record of 4,668 set by India.

Despite the devastation wrought by “Ondoy” and “Pepeng” we have demonstrated our gifts for networking and coordinating rescue and relief efforts through various media, giving hope to the many that lost their homes during the storm. In a similar spirit we are enjoined to come together as a nation and mobilize our gifts for creating, inventing and innovating –to showcase our Filipino food culture in 5,000 dishes as a unique, wonderful and utterly tasty experience. On December 14, we will gather cooking enthusiasts, culinary students, kusineros, chefs and foodies for one battle royale featuring cheese, with Kraft Eden products demonstrating their versatility in various dishes, from the savory to the sweet.

Enhanced with creamy and nutritious buttermilk taste fortified with Lusog-Sigla nutrients, Kraft Eden cheese is the choice for any woman who aspires to show off her flair, creativity and confidence in the kitchen. From simple snacks to sophisticated main courses, Kraft Eden cheese products can be relied upon to deliver great-tasting meals by making simple recipes extra special. Lending itself to a variety of dishes, the use of Kraft Eden cheese products is as limitless as the imagination of its user. And in the hands of some pretty creative people from various culinary backgrounds, December 14, 2009 is going to be one red-letter day as all these people work with each other in landing the

Philippines

in the record books with the most number of cheese dishes.

In a country that loves a fiesta, with various culinary traditions from many regions and 7,107 islands, where almost any snack worth enjoying can be improved with the addition of cheese: ensaymada, puto, bibingka, pichi-pichi –coming up with 5,000 dishes should be a piece of, well, cheese.