TURISTA-ra Na! Micro-Tourism Enterprise Project Launched to Boost RP’s Tourist Hotspots

Philippine retailers, especially those in the micro and small business sectors, still have a lot of room for improvement. Here's hoping this initiative will further enhance the good image of our tourism industry.

Press Release:

Tourist hotspots all over the country will get the much needed boost they need for tourism spending as the Department of Tourism (DoT) and Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) launch TURISTA-ra Na! Lakbay-Turo para sa Micro-Tourism Enterprise, a multi-sectoral project that aims to look into prevailing retail practices of micro entrepreneurs in tourism spots in the country and update and upgrade retailers’ aptitude on retail tools and skills.

The project, which also includes the support and cooperation of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), will be done through a series of seminars featuring renowned resource speakers and retail specialists who will share retail best practices, innovations, and tools necessary to the performance of the audience’s duty.

DoT Secretary Alberto A. Lim hails the project as a true social initiative for making sure grassroots retailers in these tourist areas will be up-to-date with the latest trends and practices and reflect excellence in catering to tourists. “Tourism greatly helped the retail industry last year as spending went up due to the increased visitor turnout. And now with this micro-tourism enterprise project in full swing, we do hope we can exceed expectations this year,” he says.

Meanwhile, PRA Vice-Chair Ma. Alegria S. Limjoco stressed the need for more training for retailers in these areas. “The need to learn from these retail experts will definitely have a big impact for our small and micro entrepreneurs. They can improve their services and think and create new ways on how to attract tourists to buy and avail of their goods and services, which in turn can make their businesses grow,” she adds.

The micro-tourism enterprise project will give free training to owners of micro-enterprises. Initial areas wherein the project will start include some of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, which include Boracay, Baguio, Cebu, Bohol and Palawan.

Tourism greatly helped accelerate the retail industry as the Department of Tourism reported that 27% of tourist spending in 2010 went to shopping. Likewise, the 2010 retail industry grew by 12% from 5.5% in 2009.

Robert Pattinson: All Charm and Talent in WATER FOR ELEPHANTS

I have to confess that I've never had a chance to watch any of the Twilight movies so I can't really say how effective an actor Robert Pattinson is ... until I watched the advanced screening of Water for Elephants last night. He IS good! I really enjoyed the film and found the story very moving. I'll post a proper review soon in my main blog. For now, here's a nice writeup about the actor who played Jacob in the movie.

Press Release:

Robert Pattinson continues to charm in a moving portrayal opposite Academy Award® winner Reese Witherspoon in “Water For Elephants” based on the bestselling book of the same title by Sara Gruen.

“Water For Elephants” is an original and compelling story that takes the audience back in time to 1931, when the circus offered a welcome escape from the rigors of daily life and economic hardship. Robert Pattinson plays Jacob, a talented student, heading for a career as a vet. But on the brink of graduating from Cornell University, Jacob’s world is shattered when he learns of his parents’ deaths in an automobile accident. Broken emotionally and financially, Jacob is forced to leave Cornell. 

“Someone sent me the book, and I immediately connected to it,” remembers Pattinson. He would later agree to portray Jacob Jankowski who, after a personal tragedy, wanders without destination before hopping aboard a random train, which turns out to be the home of The Benzini Bros. Circus. 

With no other prospects, Jacob joins the troupe. At first, the once-sheltered young man is lost and even fearful for his life, among the chaos, color and danger that surround him. Jacob begins his tenure at the Benzini Bros. Circus on the bottom rung of the ladder, even lower than the roustabouts who handle the daily manual labor.  That fateful train ride ultimately takes Jacob to Marlena (Witherspoon), the star attraction of the circus that led to a romance and destiny that neither could have imagined.

When August (Christoph Waltz), the ringmaster and circus master learns of Jacob’s veterinary studies, he promotes him to tending to the medical needs of the animals. That, in turn, brings Jacob ever closer to Marlena, the show’s star performer. His attraction to Marlena is immediate and electric. “Jacob notices Marlena’s beauty and charisma right away,” Pattinson says. “He also notes her strong bond with the animals she works with during her performances; that’s another thing they share.”

An already professed fan of the book, Pattinson became even more intrigued about a movie adaptation when he read the script. “Somehow, it seemed like Francis and Richard had added even more to the story,” says the actor. (Director) Francis Lawrence was convinced that Pattinson was right for the role after he discussed the project with him for several hours. “I thought Robert was Jacob Jankowski,” says the filmmaker. “It was difficult to find a young man of age 23 or 24 who didn’t seem too young for the part. Rob was already a man. He is thoughtful, intelligent, empathetic, strong, and confident.” 

Pattinson’s quick grasp of the character was impressive. “Jacob is mysterious and quiet; he’s an observer,” says the actor. “He’s always watching people and he has an intuitive relationship with animals, and a deep understanding of human nature.”

All of Jacob’s traits and abilities come to the fore as he becomes increasingly close to Marlena. At first, she wants little to do with the newcomer, but when he comes to the aid of Marlena’s beloved and suffering horse, they share a moment of intimacy and tenderness that neither can shake. But there’s a powerful presence – almost a force – standing between them: August, who his employees call, with a mixture of fear and respect. August runs the circus at times like a tyrant, and at others like a caring patriarch. Similarly, his love and kindness toward Marlena can morph – in a flash – to abuse, anger and unfathomable darkness. When Jacob witnesses August’s dark side, he does everything in his power to once and for all free Marlena from his tyranny.

Pattinson is best known for his portrayal of the vampire Edward Cullen in the “Twilight” saga. He gained industry notice at 19 years of age when he joined the Harry Potter franchise in Mike Newell’s “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire,” playing Cedric Diggory. He also starred opposite Pierce Brosnan, Chris Cooper and Emilie De Ravin in the drama, “Remember Me.” Upcoming is “Bel Ami,” a film based on the novel of the same name written by Guy de Maupassant, in which Pattinson plays a young journalist in Paris who betters himself through his connections to he city’s most glamorous and influential women, played by Uma Thurman, Kristin Scott Thomas and Christina Ricci. 

“Water For Elephants” opens May 4 in Metro Manila, Cebu and Pampanga theaters from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.

Museo Pambata's Activities for May 2011

May is for our Mothers!

Museo Pambata has a treat for our dear moms this May! The first 30 mothers who visit the museum with their family this month get free gift items.

Pasalubong Shop Sale!

Avail of great discounts from all items at our Pasalubong Shop for the whole month!

Every Saturday

Haraya Storytelling Hour, 10 AM

Listen to classic favorites and well-loved Filipino children's stories, as told by our friends from Alitaptap Storytellers Philippines.

Every Second and Fourth Sundays

FUN SCIENCE!, 2 PM

If you're a curious naturalist, space buff, an explorer or adventurer, join our fun science sessions facilitated by our guides! Join us in cool experiments and scien-terrific activities.

May 1

MP Guides Corner, 2 PM

Dogs are man’s best friend! Make a dog out of tissue roll tubes with our guides.

May 7

Anino sa Museo, 10 AM

Disenyong Gupit Papel, 2 PM

Make beautiful designs and patterns using only scissors and paper. Learn with Ms. Sinag de Leon-Amado in this paper-cutting workshop. Call or e-mail the museum for workshop fees and details.

May 7, 14, 21, and 28

Parent and Child Art Workshop

Bond with your kids through art! Join us in our workshops as we engage parents and kids to enhance their creativity while having fun. Call or e-mail the museum for workshop fees and details.

May 8

MP Guides Corner, 2 PM

It’s Mother’s Day! Make a bracelet for your mom to show your love for her.

May 10 to 13

European Union Week Celebration

Join our friends from the European Union in their annual children’s festival, with arts and crafts activities, storytelling sessions, film showings and other exciting activities! Call the museum for the schedule.

May 14

Sayaw Manila! 10 AM

May 15

MP Guides Corner, 2 PM

Beat the heat and make an icepop out of tissue roll tubes, together with our guides.

May 20

A Storytelling Workshop for Adults! 8 AM to 5 PM

Storytelling for children is both fun and challenging! Learn from Kuya Bodjie Pascua in this workshop for teens and adults. Call the museum for more details.

May 21

Ang Bayanihan sa Museo, 10 AM

May 27

Museolympics: Healthy Kids are Happy Kids! 8 AM

Sports and activities help kids become healthy and happy! Kids from different baranggays compete in various traditional games.

May 28

Book on the Spot: Xilef, 10 AM

Felix finds it hard to read, especially when words seem to jump out of the page! Read this story about dyslexia written by Augie Rivera, illustrated by Beth Parrocha-Doctolero, and published by Adarna Books.

NOTE : All activities are subject to change without prior notice. Visit the museum at Roxas Blvd. Corner South Drive, Manila. Museum hours from Tuesday to Saturday is 9 am to 5 pm and 1 to 5pm during Sundays. Admission fee is 100 pesos for children and adults, with special discounts for group tours. Manila residents with valid IDs are free on Tuesdays and can enjoy 50% off on fees on all other days. For more information, call 523-1797/98 and 536-0595 or email info@museopambata.org

Give Mom a Sweet Surprise on Mother's Day

Looking for a way to surprise Mom on May 8? Give her this scrumptious dessert from Goldilocks that's specially baked for her ...

Press Release:

Mother’s Day is one of the most important days in the entire year. While other commemoration days are for big events or religious holidays, Mother’s Day is simply about appreciating the most important women in our lives.

Someone once said that a mother’s heart always knows what the child does not say. Goldilocks, the country’s number one bakeshop, makes it easier for you to show her how much you love her by giving her the Chocolate Nelusko Cake!

A triple-layer chocolate chiffon cake topped with delectable cashew praline, the Chocolate Nelusko is also bedecked with a double row of luxurious chocolate buttercreme icing and dark chocolate ganache drippings. Sweet and soothing, it's just like Mom’s comforting words after a hard day.

Treat your mom right this Mother’s Day! Drop by the Goldilocks Branch nearest you or call 888-1-999 for Go-Delivery today!

K-Pop Band 2AM Live in Manila 2011

For Filipino K-Pop fans, here's something for you :)

Press Release:

Megaworld Lifestyle Centers have become the new haven for today’s hottest K-Pop acts as it brings to Manila, together with MCA Music, the four-member ballad boy band 2AM consisting of members Jinwoon, Jo Kwon, Seulong, and Changmin for a 4-day promo tour of their latest album, Saint O’ Clock, beginning April 27 until April 30. Fans will definitely be thrilled and overwhelmed as their favorite K-Pop group will be invading the entire metro for a series of meet and greets, live performances and a grand show. 

Catch them at the following venues: 

• April 28, 6:00PM at The Newport Plaza at Resorts World Manila 
• April 29, 6:00PM at Venice Piazza at Mckinley Hill 
• April 30, 5:00PM at Eastwood Mall Open Park. 

Enjoy sweet serenades from MCA Music’s freshest teen acoustic-pop duo, Krissy and Ericka who will also perform in these series of mall shows. 

Eastwood Mall, Venice Piazza at McKinley Hill, and Newport Mall, Resorts World Manila, are Metro Manila’s premier themed lifestyle centers, owned by Megaworld Corporation. 

All those who will purchase 2AM's Saint O'clock Special Edition album during the meet and greet shows on April 28 and April 29 will get the chance to have their albums signed! The special edition album features your all-time favorite 2AM songs from the standard St. O’ Clock album plus 2 bonus tracks and a DVD packed with music videos that is just pure 2AM goodness.

On April 30, catch the boys sing their hearts out in their Grand Show at the Eastwood Mall and witness a night of performance that is full of surprises. Let 2AM serenade you as you sing-along with your favorite 2AM songs. 

2AM has charmed their way into winning prestigious awards such as winning in the 25th Golden Disk Awards, 2nd Melon Music Awards, MNET Music awards and Seoul Music Awards. These four boys really give us a fresh insight on the KPOP scene with their multi-awarded ballad songs.

2AM live in Manila is presented to you by MCA Music Inc. and Megaworld Lifestyle Centers. Also by valued media partners, MYX- the official music channel of 2AM in Manila; Barangay LS (97.1, Tugstugan na) - the official radio station of 2 AM in Manila; The Manila Bulletin, Garage Magazine, KPOP Live, Orangemagazinetv.com, EDSA Shangri-la Hotel - the official residence of 2AM in Manila; Maxima Machineries and Hyundai Truck and Bus - the official transportation of 2AM in Manila; Big Hit entertainment Korea, JYP Entertainment Korea and 2 One Day Philippines. This much-awaited promo tour will be the ultimate K-POP event this year!

To get the latest updates on 2AM, visit MCA Music's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/mcamusic.

To get 2AM’s hottest hits and updates on your cellphones, text 2AM to 2346

Meet Julien Drolon: a French Singer with a Filipino Heart

I'm always fascinated when I read about foreign musicians who sing OPM songs. Now, I'm further impressed because a French music artist wrote a song about the Philippines that include Tagalog words! I like the rap part of Phil So Good. To hear the music and read the lyrics, please visit my Tagalog blog.

Press Release:

Singer, songwriter, and former International Reporter are all words that can be used to describe Julien Drolon, but they merely scratch the surface. Drolon (born in Nantes, France on the 5th of February 1982) is on a mission to promote peace thru his love for music. He first arrived in the Philippines last 2007 and came back at the end of 2009 and decided to start his musical career.

This French singer with a Pinoy heart describe his music style as feel good music which combines pop, reggae, funk, and rock. He considers Jason Mraz, Bob Marley, Jamiroquai, Donovan Frankenreiter, Patrice and Asa as his musical influences. Drolon performs on stage with his equally-talented Filipino band composed of Girlie Capulso (back up vocals), Enzo Queyquep (lead guitar), Joseph Duenas (bass), Leal Nanca (keyboard) and Joven Palencia (Drums).

Drolon already played in Hong Kong and mainland China, at an Asian music conference, Music Matters Festival, which was held in Hong Kong last May 26-29, 2010. He also performed for the opening of the China Music Industry Park in Shanghai last July 2010.

Addressing the issue of why he started his career in the Philippines, he responded, “It’s a place that is blessed with amazing musicians that want to collaborate on the making of my album and Filipinos are music lovers”. For his first album, Drolon is working with producers Jack Rufo and Angee Rozul.

Julien Drolon's debut album entitled “JULIEN DROLON… PHIL SO GOOD” is due for mainstream release in May 2011, followed by a series of tour in the Philippines. Check out more updates on Julien Drolon at www.facebook.com/jdrolon, www.myspace.com/juliendrolon and www.twitter.com/juliendrolon12

Smile, Breathe and Go Slowly*: 2011 World Tai Chi and Qigong Day in the Philippines

Calling all Tai Chi and Qigong Enthusiasts!

Press Release:

On April 30, 2011, the country’s biggest gathering of tai chi and qigong enthusiasts happens at the Valdes Hall of Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) on North Avenue, Quezon City. The World Tai Chi and Qigong Day (WTCQD) celebration is an annual event that is celebrated across 70 countries all over the world. Peace Blossoms Internal Arts Society (Peace Blossoms), a recreational club founded in 2008, has been hosting and organizing this global activity for four years now. Its predecessors, Spring of Harmony Internal Arts Club and Blue Dragon Society, in partnership with the Chevalier Monks of Christ, have been organizing the WTCQD celebrations since 2003.

Antonio Delgado, President of Peace Blossoms, says “We are celebrating World Tai Chi and Qigong Day to express unity and radiate positive energy towards our environment; at Peace Blossoms, our focus is to radiate peace, love and harmony through the practice of tai chi.” Delgado adds that the celebration will also put the Philippines on the map of countries that practice tai chi. “Starting at 10am on April 30, different countries from all over the world will be doing tai chi together, so because of the different time zones, the effect will be such that the whole world will be doing tai chi together for 24 straight hours,” Delgado explains.

Like Delgado, Irene Chia, Director of Peace Blossoms, also stresses that the group aims to promote peace, harmony and unity among diverse groups through the practice of tai chi and qigong. Peace here pertains to peace on all levels, be it physical, mental, emotional, psychological, economic, or spiritual.

Chia adds, “Peace Blossoms sees its role as an agent of change that moves people from diverse backgrounds towards the transformation of their consciousness.” The organization believes that there can only be real change in society if there is change in consciousness. She also adds that the more people who have transformed their consciousness, the quicker this process of change will be. “We want to help people become better, more caring, more loving persons, and to become more ‘evolved’ beings for the greater good of humanity,” Chia says. By hosting this event, the group also hopes to educate the general public about the health and healing benefits of tai chi and qigong.

This year’s celebration will revolve around the history and development of tai chi, including the evolution of different tai chi styles and lineage. Chia will give a lecture on tai chi and qigong’s rich history. Her talk will be highlighted by live demonstrations from different tai chi groups and individuals, mostly coming from members and affiliates of Peace Blossoms. Program will showcase different Chen, Yang, Wu, Sun routines, including demos of Wudang Tai Chi, Kung Fu Fan routine, and Tai Chi for Health demo (diabetes). Finally, the Senior Citizens Group from Brookside Hills Subdivision, Cainta, Rizal will lead the group shibashi, accompanied by live electronic music courtesy of Blend:er.

To give the opening remarks and read the opening statement of this year’s WTCQD celebration will be Karen Tanada, one of the organization’s officers. Tanada is the Executive Director of Gaston Ortigas Peace Institute, an NGO that works on peace issues. Dr. Edgardo Uyehara of VMMC will talk about tai chi’s role in rehabilitation therapy. Delgado will expound on the science and application of the group’s Tai Chi for Health Programs: Tai Chi for Diabetes, Arthritis, Osteoporosis and Back Pain. Jundio Salvador, owner of Pan De Amerikana Bakery and Garden Restaurant and supporter of Peace Blossoms’ efforts in promoting tai chi and qigong for health, will give the closing remarks.

Tai chi is an ancient Chinese form of movement which integrates mind-body coordination, proper breathing and cultivation of internal energy (chi). It is considered to be the melting pot of the internal arts, and one of the earliest sources of the different martial art styles that we know today. Tai chi relaxes the mind and body and helps fight stress, improve balance, flexibility and posture. Regular practice generally leads to better mind and body health. Qigong, on the other hand, is defined by the National Qigong Association in the US as “an ancient Chinese health care system that integrates physical postures, breathing techniques and focused intention.” Tai chi, specifically, is a form of qigong. Millions of people from all over the world practice qigong to maintain health, heal their bodies, calm their minds and reconnect with their spirit.

This year’s celebration is made possible with the help of our sponsors (in alphabetical order) and donors: AquaHealth, Big Banners, Blend:er, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine (Veterans Memorial Medical Center), Rosanna L. Duavit, Dulcofiber and Boehringer Ingelheim (Phil.) Inc., Hilot Pinoy, Rey Jose, Jugno’s Monster Pizza, Kebab Fil-Sian Grill, Julie Lim, Pan de Amerikana, Richard Paredes, Premium Gift Center, Inc., Premium Graphics Asia Center, Inc., and Sassa Activewear.

The program will run from 9am to 12 noon on Saturday, April 30, 2011. It is free and open to the public. Hilot practitioners from Hilot Pinoy will be present during the event to offer massage therapy for a minimal fee. For inquiries about the 2011 World Tai Chi and Qigong Day, please contact Irene Chia through 0917-845-6856 (mobile), 436-1860 (landline), or email her through peace.blossoms.society@gmail.com. For more information on tai chi and Peace Blossoms Internal Arts Society, visit the website on peaceblossoms.weebly.com

*”Smile, breathe and go slowly” is a quote from Thich Nhat Hanh.

Gas Up and Get a Free Massage this Holy Week

Traveling via NLEX or SLEX to go home to your province? Combat road stress this Holy Week, by taking a quick escape and rewarding yourself a little with a free massage treatment from Electrolux Mobile Spa.

Press Release:

Don’t let the stress of travelling to your provinces get in the way of enjoying your most awaited long break. Get a brief retreat from road stress and the hassles of heavy traffic.

This Holy Week, have a new reason to make a gas station stopover. Now, not only can you recharge on fuel, take a quick nap or buy snacks, you can also avail of a free massage treatment from Electrolux Mobile Spa.

First, you need to stop over in the NLEX Total Gas Station in Apalit, Pampanga (north bound) from April 20-23 (Holy Wednesday to Black Saturday) or SLEX Total Gas Station in Sta. Rosa Laguna (north bound, going back to Manila) from April 24-25 (Easter Sunday to Back-to-Work Monday). Avail of a relaxing massage treatment Electrolux Mobile Spa by gassing up or spending at least P500.00 at any of the establishments in NLEX Total Gas Station. For the SLEX Total Gas Station, spend at least P500 worth of purchases from Total Fuel or Bonjour.

The Electrolux Mobile Spa is led by Electrolux Philippines together with Blue Water Day Spa and Total Philippines. Blue Water Day Spa is providing the massage services from their experienced and well-trained therapists while Electrolux constructed the calming and relaxing Mobile Spa built with the Electrolux air conditioners. The range of air conditioners Electrolux offers has integrated Air Filtration System, bringing wellness to facilities, homes and offices. It eliminates up to 95% of bacteria and 99% of dust particles released in the air. It also has Vitamin C technology that discharges that burst of freshness to help reduce stress and help fight off incidences of asthma, skin allergies and common colds – ensuring that the air you and your family breathe is clean and pure.

Kaspersky Lab Warns About the Return of Ransomware called GPCode

Important information for all of us who often visit various websites. This is a verified article as I got this from the PR company that represents Kaspersky Lab in the Philippines.

Press Release:

A new variant of the malicious program GPCode, classified as ransomware, has been found and identified by content security and threat management developer Kasperky Lab as Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Gpcode.bn. Its mode of attack is by encrypting specific data on an infected computer and generating a message on notepad threatening to delete the encrypted file unless the computer user pays the ransomware’s creator US$125 in equivalent vouchers to the international payment gateway Ukash.

The first attacks by the new GPCode variant were detected in late March this year. The malware itself was first discovered in 2004 and appeared again on the threat landscape in late 2010.

According to Kaspersky Lab senior malware researcher Nicolas Brulez, the new GPcode variant is an obfuscated or encoded executable, which makes it difficult to initially identify as a malware. It infects computers using drive-by downloads that occur when an infected website is visited.

The Trojan then starts running in the system, encrypting data without the user’s knowledge. It will then open a text file-based ransom message to the PC user, warning the user that if ransom is not paid, the encrypted key will not be sent to the victim and the file will be deleted. This is the message which is displayed on the PC screen:

At this point, the hard drives are being scanned for files to encrypt. The file extensions used to determine whether a file is to be encrypted or not are kept in an encrypted configuration file. This means the GPCode Ransomware Trojan is easily updated with a new configuration file.

Brulez also noted that cybercriminals are veering away from traditional payment modes such as direct money transfer. He said they now prefer prepaid cards or vouchers instead, which lessens the chances of them being followed or captured.

Brulez said that while a victim could possibly give in to the demands of the file hostage taker, he recommends not changing anything on the system as it may prevent potential data recovery later on. He added that one of the quickest ways to prevent malware damage is turn off the PC or simply pulling out the power plug.

There is almost no way to recover the encrypted file and the best way to prevent any more damage is to simply make backups the next time.

“We haven't seen any evidence of a time-based file deleting mechanism despite claims by the malware writer that files are deleted after ‘N’ number of days,” says Brulez. “Nevertheless, it is better to avoid any changes that could be made to the file system which, for example, may be caused by rebooting the computer.”

Going Straight with Cream Silk

I have long, straight hair which I don't find hard to take care of. I just rely on Cream Silk products to keep it tangle-free. I have Cream Silk in tubes for home use and reserve sachets for when I need to go on overnight trips. I also make sure to apply the intensive vitamin treatment once a week to get the healthy shine I need.

Here's sharing a writeup about a beauty queen's own experience with Cream Silk.

Press Release: Venus Raj -- Straight Again

When a public figure like Venus Raj undergoes a transformation, it is inevitable that people talk.

The life of a beauty queen is one filled with television appearances, photo shoots, and media events, not to mention possible career opportunities. This is what is happening to Venus right now.

The demands of her blossoming career have entailed her to sport various looks to suit different roles.

But beauty does pay its price.

“Too much styling, using the curling iron, using the flat iron, rebonding really takes a toll on your hair,” says Moussa Abdayem, technique trainer and head stylist of Emphasis Salon.

So once again, Venus turns to Cream Silk for a reliable beauty regimen. The beauty queen says, “Despite the torture to my hair due to over styling, thanks to Cream Silk vitamin treatment, my hair is recharged. Now, I’m happy that I’m back with my beautiful straight hair.”

THOR is coming!

After Black Swan, I'm looking forward to watching Natalie Portman again in her new role in Thor. On the other hand, my husband and sons would surely enjoy this movie given the action-adventure factor :p

Press Release:

Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment present the highly anticipated motion picture adaptation of “Thor,” the latest from the Marvel pantheon of legendary super heroes who have inspired generations of readers. 

The epic adventure “Thor” spans the Marvel Universe from present day Earth to the mystical realm of Asgard. At the center of the story is The Mighty Thor, a powerful but arrogant warrior whose reckless actions reignite an ancient war. As a result, Thor is banished to Earth, where he is forced to live among humans. When the most dangerous villain of his world sends its darkest forces to invade Earth, Thor learns what it takes to be a true hero. 

“Thor” is the tale of one man’s mythic journey: from a petulant prince born to inherit the throne, to a humble super hero who earns the right to lead.

Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment present A Marvel Studios Production of A Film by Kenneth Branagh: “Thor,” starring Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Stellan Skarsgård, Kat Dennings, Clark Gregg, Colm Feore, Ray Stevenson, Idris Elba, Jaimie Alexander, Tadanobu Asano, Joshua Dallas, with Rene Russo and Anthony Hopkins as Odin. 

The film is directed by Kenneth Branagh. The screenplay is by Ashley Edward Miller, Zack Stentz and Don Payne, with a story by J. Michael Straczynski and Mark Protosevich. It is produced by Kevin Feige. The executive producers are Alan Fine, Stan Lee, David Maisel, Patricia Whitcher, Louis D’Esposito. The director of photography is Haris Zambarloukos, BSC. The production designer is Bo Welch. The editor is Paul Rubell, A.C.E. The costume designer is Alexandra Byrne. The co-producers are Craig Kyle and Victoria Alonso. The music supervisor is Dave Jordan; the music is by Patrick Doyle. 

For more details, visit www.Thor.Marvel.com. or read the full production notes here.

Learn the Science Behind the Speed of Advil Liqui-Gel

I hate being bogged down by a headache or body pains especially during days when I need to finish a lot of things. I've had my share of trying out various ways to relieve pain but sometimes, it is still a hit and miss thing especially when it comes to alternative medicines that promise this and that without much explanations how they would help me feel better.

Read the article below to also know more about the newest innovation in pain relief medications. I took one capsule yesterday morning for my dysmenorrhea and it did relieve the cramps faster than I expected.

Press Release:

Pfizer Consumer Healthcare, a division of Pfizer, the world’s largest pharmaceutical company, brings another effective pain medication that works fast—the new Advil Liqui-Gel. The speed of the new Advil Liqui-Gel has been scientifically and clinically proven by numerous studies done here and abroad. With the new Advil Liqui-Gel, one can be sure of nothing but fast, effective, and safe pain relief from all kinds of pain.

Almost 3X faster absorption than ordinary tablet pain reliever

Pfizer’s Research and Development Team harnessed the technology of liquid ibuprofen for the new Advil Liqui-Gel and almost tripled the rate at which ibuprofen can be absorbed by the body.

A third-party pharmacokinetic study conducted in Australia comparing the rate and extent of ibuprofen absorption showed that two 200mg of Advil Liqui-Gel (a total of 400mg) is absorbed faster than two 200mg of ibuprofen in the regular tablet format. The new Advil Liqui-Gel recorded a 35.58-minute body absorption speed, almost three times faster than regular ibuprofen tablets which recorded 93 minutes.

Works faster than paracetamol for a wide range of pain

The new Advil Liqui-Gel was also compared to paracetamol, a very common household pain reliever.

Based on two separate clinical studies, it was proven that Advil Liqui-Gel, in both 200mg and 400mg doses, provides faster relief and superior overall analgesic efficacy compared to 1,000mg of paracetamol (which is only available in 500mg in the local market).

This faster and more effective pain relief of Advil Liqui-Gel versus the paracetamol molecule is proven in a wide range of pain—from mild to moderate pains such as headaches to very tough and severe pains like dental pains (toothaches).

With science and facts strongly supporting its speed and efficacy, it is indeed clear that the new Advil Liqui-Gel is the superior choice for pain relief. For faster than ever pain relief that is proven by science, switch to the new Advil Liqui-Gel!

The new Advil Liqui-Gel is 200mg liquid Ibuprofen in a softgel capsule classified as a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID). It is also classified as an Antipyretic which can reduce fever. It is available over-the-counter in drugstores and supermarkets nationwide and may be bought in pieces or in packs of 10s.

Electrolux Design Lab 2011 calls for appliance designs with Intelligent Mobility

Any Industrial Design students or graduates out there? Read on!

Press Release:

Always wanted to start a design career and pioneer a breakthrough in product design? Then make your design dream come true by joining the Electrolux Design Lab 2011.

The Electrolux Design Lab invites undergraduate and graduate industrial design students worldwide to create new, revolutionary home appliances for a chance to win cash prizes and a six-month design internship.

Now on its 9th year, the Electrolux Design Lab chooses “Intelligent Mobility” as the theme for this year’s competition. Intelligent Mobility underlies three concepts and trends of modern technology – sensitive in meeting the needs of consumers, flexible in adapting to the diverse activities of people and empowering in giving the consumers the control to operate home systems while at home or away.

The main challenge is for participants to be bold, creative and innovative in coming up with their designs that will redefine how people prepare, store food and do their dishes, both within and beyond the home. It should offer personalization by customizing features that fit the needs of customers while utilizing existing technology as support and guidance.

The entries shall be judged based on intuitive design, innovation and consumer insight. Also, in keeping with the Electrolux heritage, entries must be reflective of the values of Scandinavian design − being environmentally responsible, user friendly and visually appealing.

Cash prizes and a once in a lifetime opportunity await the winners. Global prizes include first prize of 5000€ (which is more than PhP 350,000) and a paid six-month internship at one of Electrolux Group’s design centers. Second prize is 3000€ (more than PhP 200,000) while the third place will get 2000€ (more than PhP 140,000).

Deadline of entries will be on May 11, 2011. For more details about the competition, visit the official website www.electroluxdesignlab.com. While for hints, tips and design developments, like and be a member of the Electrolux Design Lab page on Facebook.

For more information about Electrolux Design Lab 2011, call Electrolux’s customer care trunk line at 845-CARE (2273) or domestic toll-free number 1-800-10-845-CARE (2273) or visit www.electrolux.com.ph.

Join a Toymaking Workshop for a Good Cause

Press Release:

The Lopez Memorial Museum has teamed up once again with Pilipinas Street Plan, Knowledge Channel and Boysen Paints for Gawa/Laro: Toymaking Workshop Part 2 to be held on April 16, 9am-12noon.

This is open to kids ages 6 and up. The workshop will have them paint a taka, a traditional art form of Paete, Laguna, to create a toy. The toy-making activity, complemented by a demonstration on how to make a taka, will provide young participants with the opportunity to know and work with a traditional art form. 

Toys made by the participants will become part of the exhibit sale sometime October or December to be handled by Art Cabinet. Proceeds of sales will go to Knowledge Channel for its programs for schoolchildren in the country. For more details pls call 6312417 or email admin@lopez-museum.org

Real-Life Health Drama

I think I heard before that Academy Award-winning actress Gwyneth Paltrow has been diagnosed with early stages of osteoporosis but the info really sank in when I read the PR. Now, that got me a bit apprehensive because I remembered my grandmother developing a severe spinal curvature while I was growing up. I wonder how susceptible I am, and the female members of my family, to this condition?

Press Release:

She’s an Oscar-award-winning actress, rock star’s wife, mother of two, and the envy of millions for her all-American beauty and wispy model’s figure. Recently, however, Hollywood actress Gwyneth Paltrow made headlines for being diagnosed with the early stages of osteopenia, a condition wherein bone density falls below its less-than-normal range. Paltrow, who revealed the findings in her online newsletter GOOP, discovered her osteopenia while being treated for a severe fracture in her leg a few years ago. Those diagnosed with osteopenia—commonly elderly and menopausal women—have a greater chance of developing osteoporosis, the disease wherein bones become brittle, fragile, and vulnerable to breaking. Paltrow is only 37. 

The actress’ extreme eating habits may have something to do with her poor bone health. In the late ‘90s, she adapted a macrobiotic diet, a regimen that does not include meat and dairy products. She also resorts to a variety of liquid fasts and cleanses to shed off unwanted weight. "I need to lose a few pounds of holiday excess," she announced on her blog last year. "Anyone else? I like to do fasts and detoxes a couple of times during the year, the most hardcore one being the Master Cleanse I did last spring. It was not what you would characterize as pretty. Or easy. It did work, however." 

Paltrow’s story is the story of many young women around the world.  Is it really worth it to look better in a gown or bathing suit without proper nutrition to support some drastic weight loss scheme? But, like the actress, countless females fail to realize that bone loss, thought to be an aging woman’s disease, can begin as early as the age of 25. Calcium loss due to monthly periods and pregnancy affects bone loss even more, as does menopause, which lessens the production of estrogen, the hormone that helps protect our bones. 

While females (whether petite or not, white or Asian, elderly women, those with a family history of osteoporosis or fractures, smokers, excessive alcohol drinkers, and people with a sedentary lifestyle and poor diet practices) are susceptible to osteoporosis, 50 percent of Filipino women are at risk of the bone-weakening condition as well. A lack of bone-building calcium in our daily diet explains it. In fact, a study shows that Filipinos only consume half of their daily recommended allowance of the vital nutrient.

A stooped back, loss of height, and fractures in the hips, wrists, ankles, back, and waist are not the worst of osteoporosis. According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation, 30 percent of those who develop a hip fracture never walk again, while 20 percent die in a year’s time. No wonder many have dubbed it a Silent Killer. 

Fortunately, achieving optimum bone health is within anyone’s reach. Regular weight-bearing exercises like running, walking, and lifting weights toughen our bones, as does maintaining our appropriate weight. Ensure your daily diet is rich in calcium and Vitamin D. Leafy green vegetables, dairy products like milk and cheese, tofu, and soy products are excellent sources of calcium. For better calcium absorption, get your Vitamin D from fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), fish liver oil, egg yolks, and early morning sun exposure. Women between the ages of 25 and 50 should aim for 750 mg of calcium daily; more for those who are older, pregnant or lactating. As for Vitamin D, the Recommended Daily Allowance for women aged 19 to 50 is 600 IU (international units). 

As the Expert in Bone Nutrition, Anlene contains 500 mg of calcium in a single glass, while a glass of Anlene Gold has 600 mg of calcium. Drinking two glasses a day means you meet your daily calcium needs; you also reduce bone breakdown within four weeks as proven by a landmark clinical study* conducted by Anlene. 

By drinking two glasses of Anlene daily with exercise and a balanced diet, Filipino women could avoid the Silent Killer altogether.

*Kruger et al. 2009. The Effects of Fortified Milk

Trying the 'Mom Bucks' in "Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules"

I know a lot of kids are looking forward to the next installment of the Wimpy Kid series. So, here's one update ...

Press Release:

In Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules, a sequel to 2010’s surprise hit, Greg Heffley, the kid who made “wimpy” cool, is back in an all-new family comedy based on the best-selling follow-up novel by Jeff Kinney. (Kinney’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid series has thus far sold 43 million books.) As he begins seventh grade, Greg and his older brother – and chief tormentor – Rodrick must deal with their parents’ misguided attempts to have them bond.

Also central to the story are Greg’s mom and dad, played by Rachael Harris and Steve Zahn. Being Greg and Rodrick’s parents is no picnic, but mom Susan Heffley is trying to do her best with the men in her life. “Susan has started writing a parenting column for the local newspaper about her family and she feels like hers should be a model family,” says Harris. “But Susan’s family is not a model family; they’re the Heffleys.”

“Every parent can relate to Susan’s challenges with her son,” says  producer Nina Jacobson. “There’s no relationship that lasts longer than the one with your siblings, and Susan is desperate to get her boys to be closer. Her husband, Frank is a little skeptical about her efforts to bring the boys together, knowing that Rodrick is not a great influence. But Susan will do whatever she can to bring them together. She resorts to incentivizing them to get along through cash rewards she calls ‘Mom Bucks.’ The ‘Mom Bucks’ could be called bribery or reinforcement, depending on how you look at it.”

“Susan is anything but wimpy,” says Rachael Harris. “She pulls out the ‘Mom Bucks’ because she wants her boys to get along and spend more quality time together. She comes up with the idea that, for every hour they spend together, they each get a Mom Buck, exchangeable for actual currency. Susan is going to do what she has to do. She’s very willful, like Greg.”

While Susan uses the persuasion of Mom Bucks to bring her boys together, her husband Frank is not convinced it’s a great idea. “Even though he seems a little less involved with these family dynamics, Frank actually has a pretty good instinct that if the boys start spending more time together, Rodrick is going to rub off on Greg,” says Steve Zahn, who plays the Heffley patriarch. “That might not be the best thing.” 

Simpson sums up the Heffley family dynamics: “Even though the Wimpy Kid books have a subversive edge and a wicked sense of humor, they contain important themes that families will latch onto. Greg comes to realize that his brother is always going to be there, for the rest of his life, for better or worse. Greg Heffley resonates with kids because he’s real and imperfect. I think this movie will resonate with families because the Heffleys are a real and imperfect family.”

“Diary of A Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules” opens April 23 in theaters from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.

Lighting 101 for your Daily Needs

Make daily living eco-friendly as one of the country’s most sought-after architect for residential and commercial projects, Lynn del Rosario, shares her own experiences using Firefly CFLs.

Press Release:

Are you planning to renovate your home or office this year? Before you finalize the blueprint of your new house and purchase new lighting fixtures, Firefly Electric & Lighting Corp. (FELCO) invites you to do your bit for the environment by using Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) instead of the usual incandescent bulbs for your table lamps, ceiling and garden fixtures.

There are many innovative ways to incorporate eco-friendly lighting in the design of houses and offices. According to Architect Lynn Del Rosario of NSDR + Partners, “Good lighting should not be taken for granted in designing houses and offices. Just the same, achieving the best lighting experience should not harm the environment or hurt your pockets.”

Architect Lynn recommends the use of CFLs to her clients because they emit the same brightness as incandescent lamps but with longer burning hours compared to incandescent ones. “CFLs have less energy usage but the same light emissions as incandescent bulbs. CFL wattage usually ranges from 9 to 13 while incandescent ones use 60. The higher the wattage, the higher the consumption of energy and electricity, which means using CFLs is equivalent to big savings,” she said.

Architect Lynn added, “By replacing all your lighting fixtures at home with CFLs, you can save up to 75% on your electricity bill. Using CFLs is the best way to shrink your electricity bill while helping save the environment.”

Best lighting experience

Lighting a specific room, whether it be the office or the home, needs to be carefully planned and thought of. Fortunately, Firefly CFLs come in various types and color temperature that would suit the needed application and the effects and moods that people want.

For offices, Architect Lynn recommends Firefly’s Daylight CFLs, which emit a bright light that is perfect for a working environment that requires good lighting. Firefly’s Daylight CFL is also a safe bet for living rooms and dining areas where natural light is needed.

Meanwhile, for bedrooms and lounge areas where you want to have a “cozy feel,” she recommends Firefly Warm White CFLs to help accentuate the mood of the room. This kind of CFL also works best for lamp shades and other desk lighting fixtures.

Firefly Cool Daylight highlights the blue and green shades. It is often used in hospitals and conference rooms because it reflects a sanitary and fast-paced mood.

Firefly CFLs also come in various shapes and sizes. The Junior Spiral CFL is a favourite among architect and designers because of the bulb’s distinct features. Aside from being spiral in shape, it is very compact, unique in design and fits most fixtures.

According to Arch. Lynn many Filipinos are already becoming aware of eco-friendly living through “Green Architecture” or the use of environment-friendly materials in building houses, offices and stores.

“Green architecture is widespread, not just for architects or designers but even for consumers. For the past 10 years, CFLs have been a top of mind eco-friendly lighting alternative. In fact, our clients have begun initiating and pushing for the use of CFLs in their homes,” she said.

FELCO lights made available

With CFLs made available by FELCO, eco-friendly lights are now more affordable, available and accessible. “Our clients are very happy with the “greener” lighting experience from Firefly CFLs. In fact, they are now also advocates of eco-friendly living,” said Architect Lynn.

Meanwhile, FELCO Marketing Manager Jhie Greenwood affirms FELCO’s support to green architecture. “We have worked with NSDR + Partners for three years now and have seen how effective the collaboration has been. More people are becoming aware of the benefits of eco-friendly living through the use of Firefly CFLs in the local market,” said Jhie Greenwood, Marketing Manager, FELCO. “It is important that we help save the environment by promoting green architecture.”

Firefly Lighting products are distributed in more than 7,000 hardware and electrical stores all over the Philippines, including modern retail chain stores like Ace Hardware, Ace Express, SM Hypermarket, Savemore, CitiHardware, Wilcon Builders, Handyman, True Value, Federal Hardware, Workstation, Ortigas Home Depot and DIY Shop to name a few.

For more information on Firefly lighting products visit www.fireflyelectric.com, email info@fireflyelectric.com or call (02) 2422060 to 65 and Fax (02) 2422060 loc 707.

Unleash your child’s star potential at the Promil Pre-School i-Shine Talent Camp

Calling all parents with talented kids! This summer may be their chance to shine ... big time! :)

Press Release:

Does your child create music with his toys? Can she move gracefully with the beat? Or is he able to move you with his many cute faces? He may already be showing signs of great potential. Help nurture this gift by joining the Promil Pre-School i-Shine Talent Camp!

Kids all over the country will be getting their chance to shine and be discovered as the Promil Pre-School i-Shine Talent Camp begins its search for the brightest star with a grand kick-off at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall from April 9-10. It will be a whole day of singing, dancing and acting workshops designed to nurture the star potential in each child. These workshops will be led by the country’s leading talent schools: Center for Pop, The Regine Tolentino Dance Studio, and Trumpets Playshop.

What’s more, kids who shine at the Promil Pre-School i-Shine Talent Camp will be given a chance to become part of GMA’s newest TV talent search, as each workshop will serve as an audition to Promil Pre-School i-Shine Talent Camp TV! The big winner of this talent search will get P200,000 (tax-free) plus a contract with the GMA Artist Center!

To join, simply accompany your kids, ages 4 to 7 years old, to the Promil Pre-School i-Shine Talent Camp, fill up the registration form, and submit the following requirements: child’s birth certificate, 2 valid IDs of the parent/guardian, parent’s written consent (if the companion is not the child’s parent), and a proof of purchase receipt of Promil Pre-School (any size) dated January 1, 2011 onwards. You can also register online at http://www.ishine.com.ph.

The search for the next big talent will also go nationwide as the Promil Pre-School i-Shine Talent Camp visits SM Cebu on April 15-16, SM Rosales (Dagupan) on April 27-28, and SM Davao on May 2-3.

So what are you waiting for? Nurture your child’s talent and uncover his star potential at the Promil Pre-School i-Shine Talent Camp! Who knows, he could be the country’s next shining star!

The Promil Pre-School i-Shine Talent Camp is brought to you by GMA Network Inc., and Promil Pre-School. Promil Pre-School, a powdered milk drink for children 4-7 years old, partners and supports all parents in developing their child’s talents. It contains Nutrissentials – a unique combination of essential nutrients to help optimize a child’s full potential. For inquires, please call the Wyeth Careline at 81-WYETH (99384) or the provincial toll-free number 1-800-10-884-2222.

Brandon Jackson's Makeover in “Big Momma’s: Like Father, Like Son”

I already saw the trailer of this movie and there are lots of really funny scenes!

Press Release:

Big Momma is back and this time he has big backup: his teenage stepson Trent. Martin Lawrence returns as FBI agent Malcolm Turner and as Turner’s deep-cover alter-ego Big Momma. Turner is joined by Trent (Brandon Jackson) as they go undercover at an all-girls performing arts school after Trent witnesses a murder. Posing as Big Momma and as hefty coed Charmaine, they must find the killer before he finds them.

The Malcolm-Trent dynamic is central to the series’ new direction. As the film opens, Malcolm is thrilled when graduating high school student Trent is accepted to Duke University. But Trent has other ideas; he wants to pursue a career as a rapper. That conflict ultimately leads Trent to take a detour into the family business: going undercover by dressing up as a woman. Trent joining Malcolm as a Big Momma and their ensuing generational battles not only double the comedy, they add an emotional resonance because Malcolm must come to terms with Trent’s desire to follow his dreams, even as Malcolm goes to extreme lengths to keep Trent safe. “I love playing Big Momma,” says Lawrence, “but it was really the energy of the script and having Brandon as my partner in the story that brought me back. Malcolm looks at Trent as a son but Trent is becoming a man and wants to do his own thing. Everyone can relate to that.” 

Jackson says being cast as Trent/Charmaine was a dream come true. “Martin Lawrence is one of my idols and it was exciting to work with him,” says the young star who had standout roles in “Tropic Thunder” and “Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief.” “And when it came to wearing the [weighty prosthetics, as Charmaine], Martin gave me some good advice: ‘Sit down whenever you can, chill out, and have a good time.’ It’s my nature to run around the set and talk to everybody, so the suit made me focus on my performance.”

Trent, says Jackson, is “your average teenager who knows exactly what he wants to be; in his case, it’s a successful rapper. He also sees himself as a ladies’ man, but it’s tough to be a ladies’ man in a woman’s body! So he undergoes all these dynamics of learning about women – and about himself.” 

Jackson adds that his biggest challenge was making sure Trent could “shine through” the formidable prosthetics that transform the character into Charmaine. Trent’s learning curve in acting like a woman is a steep one, made exponentially more difficult because he’s also trying to woo one of his fellow students, Haley (Jessica Lucas), a beautiful singer and composer. As himself, the cocky and clueless Trent struck out with Haley. But as Charmaine, he’s getting a unique perspective on dealing with the opposite sex – and he becomes a better man in the process. 

“Big Momma’s: Like Father, Like Son” opens April 13 in theaters from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.

Kaspersky Lab, FlipGeeks start comic book contest on anti-piracy advocacy

Heads up comic creators! 

Press Release: 

As part of the upcoming Metro Comic Con 2011, software security company Kaspersky Lab and pop culture website FlipGeeks are holding a comic-making competition with the goal of promoting the use of original software.

The comics contest theme is “No to Software Piracy” and is open to all amateur comic book and storyboard artists who can submit their entries individually or as a group. Interested participants must register through email to submissions@sketchpadmanila.net. Registration period is from April 4 to 9.

The comics should only be one page and must be completely original. It should also include KAV and KIS, two original graphics characters used by Kaspersky Lab to promote its products.

The comics should be in color with texts written in English. While digital drawings are allowed, 3D graphics is not. Entries must be submitted to submissions@flipgeeks.com in JPEG format with a resolution of 150 dpi. Participants can start submitting from April 10 to 16.

The comics will then be posted on FlipGeeks.com and on Kaspersky Labs’ official Facebook page and participants can share the links of their creations.

The top three winners will be chosen by a panel of judges composed of professional graphic design artists. A People’s Choice Award will be given to participants who will have the most “Likes” in the Kaspersky Lab Philippines’ Facebook page.

Prizes are as follows:

1st Place – P5,000 + 1 year license of Kaspersky Internet Security 2011 and their work will be published Junior Inquirer. Also, online in Computer World, PC World, the Kaspersky FB fan page.

2nd Place – P3,000 + 1 year license of Kaspersky Internet Security 2011

3rd Place – P2,000 + 1 year license of Kaspersky Internet Security 2011

People’s Choice Award – 1 year license of Kaspersky Internet Security 2011

Winners will be announced on May 8 at the Metro Comic Con at the SM Megatrade Hall 2, SM Megamall.

For more information, visit the FlipGeeks.com website or https://www.facebook.com/KasperskyLabPH?sk=app_10531514314

Goldilocks' Lenten Meals

I'm sure a lot of people are looking for meat-less foods this season of Lent. Here are some of what Goldilocks is offering ... Just looking at the photo of the Ensalada with Crispy Dilis makes me want to order that dish now! :p

Press Release: An Ocean of Choices

As the Lenten season is in full swing, many people are finding the Friday food restrictions to be quite a sacrifice. But don’t get the fishy blues! Goldilocks, the country’s number one bakeshop, brings you an ocean of choices during Lent!

Indulge in scintillating Rellenong Bangus, flaky Fish Relleno packets, All Veggie Lumpia, and Fish Bistek! Or try the all-new Sarapinoy Ensalada made with Crispy Dilis and a smorgasbord of garnishings! There is also the Seafood Kare-kare made with Bangus belly and shrimp to temper temptations.

Go fishing for flavor at a Goldilocks nearest you, or call 888-1-999 Go-Delivery today!

April 2011 Events at Museo Pambata

Summer Fashionista Promo

It’s time to dress up in your best summery outfit! The first 30 kids who visit the museum in their summer outfits will get free gift items!

Every Saturday

Haraya Storytelling Hour, 10 AM

Listen to classic favorites and well-loved Filipino children's stories, as told by our friends from Alitaptap Storytellers Philippines!

April 5 - 30

Art’s Cool Summer Workshops

Summer is hot, but art is definitely cool with our art workshops! This year’s activities include: basic drawing and painting, integrated painting, theater arts, and creative writing. Call the museum for more details.

April 9

Anino sa Museo, 10 AM

Watch a performance of lights and shadows with Anino Shadowplay Collective as they perform shadowplays of children's stories, rhymes, and songs.

April 9 - 16

Cuaresma Pambata Exhibit

Commemorate the Lenten season by viewing an exhibit of Lenten images and figures from Calle Regidor of Binangonan.

April 15

Earth Defenders, 9 AM

Save the Earth, be an Earth Defender! Let’s take care of our environment by participating in Earth Day activities and fun and creative workshops!

April 16

Ang Bayanihan sa Museo, 10 AM

Dance with the Philippine National Folk Dance Company as they showcase dances from all over the nation, and join them in dancing afterwards!

Book on the Spot: The Grand Parade, 2 PM

The town of St. Rita is experiencing a heat wave! How can the parade continue when everyone’s dizzy in the heat? Find out in this book written by Carla Pacis and Nanoy Rafael, illustrated by Marcus Nada, and published by Adarna House.

April 17

MP Guides Corner, 2 PM

Here comes the summer sun! Make paper plate suns with our guides!

April 30

Art’s Cool Culminating Activity, 2 PM

Take a look at the works of our Art’s Cool participants in this summer showcase of artworks and performances!

Every Second and Fourth Sundays

Fun Science!, 2 PM

If you're a curious naturalist, space buff, an explorer or adventurer, join our fun science sessions facilitated by our guides! Join us in cool experiments and scien-terrific activities.

All activities are subject to change without prior notice. Visit the museum at Roxas Blvd. Corner South Drive, Manila. Museum hours from Tuesday to Saturday is 9 am to 5 pm and 1 to 5pm during Sundays. Admission fee is 100 pesos for children and adults, with special discounts for group tours. Manila residents with valid IDs are free on Tuesdays and can enjoy 50% off on fees on all other days. For more information, call 523-1797/98 and 536-0595 or email info@museopambata.org