Thursday, May 31, 2012

The Medicinal Wonders Of Lagundi

For those who are looking for alternative ways to relieve certain medical conditions ...

Press Release:

Most pharmacies nowadays sell alternative medicines, many of which are widely advertised but offer no clear therapeutic value. Thankfully, medicines made from lagundi leaves are the exact opposite.

A wild shrub that grows in the Philippines, lagundi (Vitex negundo) is easily recognizable because of its leaf, which is made up of five smaller leaflets. It has been effectively used as a herbal medicine in treating cough and colds and in relieving asthma, rheumatism and even skin diseases like boils.

Lagundi has been found to have phytochemical properties that make it an anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and analgesic agent that helps in respiratory disorders.

photo borrowed from http://www.stuartxchange.org/Lagundi.html
During asthma attacks, lagundi can prevent the body’s production of leukotrienes, a group of chemicals that accompanies inflammation. It also contains Chrysoplenol D, a substance that has anti-histamine and muscle relaxant properties which makes lagundi effective against coughs, colds, fever and asthma.

Proof of lagundi’s efficacy is its inclusion in the Department of Health’s list of ten medicinal plants with clinically proven medicinal values.

The traditional way of preparing a lagundi medicinal drink is still widely used. This method involves picking washing, boiling, steeping and straining the relevant parts of the plant like the leaves, roots, flowers and seeds.

But those who don’t want the hassle of searching grasslands and watercourses for shrubs to be used in their own lagundi concoction may opt for tablets and syrups, which are equally effective. One of the most potent lagundi-based medicines is Lagundex.


Lagundex is made from the finest lagundi leaves in the country, harvested from the nutrient-rich soil of Palawan. A clinical study shows that fine lagundi leaves are more potent in treating cough, colds and even mild asthma.*

Unlike other cough medicines, Lagundex comes in three flavors—peppermint, sweet orange and soothing mint—that children and adults would appreciate. It is available over the counter in leading drugstores. For more information, call New Marketlink Pharmaceutical Corporation at (02) 480-42-07

* Romeo P. Chu M.D. The effect of “Lagundi” (a local herb) tablets on Bronchial Asthma in Adults: A Randomized Double Blind Study with Theophylline

Nelia P. Cortes-Maramba M.D., Jaime Purificaion M.D., Phase III Multi center clinical trial of Vitex negundo L. (Lagundi) syrup vs. Placebo among pediatric patients with cough of moderate severity.


Wednesday, May 30, 2012

10 Million Pesos. Fame. Fortune. Stardom.

FYI young people! Who have dreams of being a celebrity? Here's a new search for the next rising star! 

Press Release:

TV5 calls on young showbiz aspirants aged 16-21 to come to the grand one-day auditions for ARTISTA ACADEMY, which will be held this June 19 at the SMART Araneta Coliseum. Artista Academy offers a whopping 10 million peso grand prize and, of course, the promise of the glamorous artista life.


Interested applicants are required to bring their birth certificate, valid ID and best glam picture to the grand auditions on June 19.


Tuesday, May 29, 2012

EBE DANCEL returns with another household hit: PAALAM KAHAPON

Press Release:

There's no stopping this native from Isabela from serenading the public with his hit compositions. Former frontman of the disbanded pop-rock group Sugarfree, Ebe Dancel launched his solo career early last year with the debut album “Dalawang Mukha ng Pag-ibig”; a double CD album under Warner Music Philippines. The first CD is a full-band version with 10 tracks while the second CD contains the same songs but redone in acoustic takes and recorded in separate sessions for a different sound which highlights Ebe’s vocals and lyrics.


The album is composed of all original songs which are all crafted with the same heart, honesty and sensibility that only Ebe can uniquely bring to his audience. Following the carrier single and hit “Muli” and “Wag kang mag-alala”, Ebe’s third release “Paalam Kahapon” is currently heard in major radio stations such as RX 93.1, 99.5 RT, JAM 88.3, Barangay LS 97.1, 107.5 WIN RADIO, 103.5 WOW FM, 102.7 STAR FM and 91.5 BIG FM, while its music video is exclusively being played in MYX. Consequently, “Paalam Kahapon” is also the theme song of the top-rated GMA Koreanovela “Iris”.

Ebe’s hits have earned him two nominations in the upcoming Tambayan OPM Awards. Ebe, who held nothing back in this solo debut, has confessed to a creative shot of energy in this new horizon that has opened up for him.

Here's a video I took of Ebe singing Buloy 
during the MTV Exit Live concert last year

“Dalawang Mukha Ng Pag-Ibig,” Ebe Dancel’s solo debut album under Warner Music Philippines, now available at all music outlets nationwide!

You may vote for Ebe as Male Artist of the Year (Keyword: TAMBAYAN20) and Dalawang Mukha ng Pag-ibig as Album of the Year (Keyword: TAMBAYAN10) by sending the corresponding keywords to 2331 For Globe and Sun subscribers and 231 for Smart Subscribers. Voting period is until June 10.

Like EBE on Facebook: www.facebook.com/EbeDancelMusic Follow EBE on TWITTER: www.twitter.com/ebedancel

Text EBE to 5677 to get EBE DANCEL ringback tones or visitwww.pressplay.ph on your mobile phone.


Sunday, May 27, 2012

Make School Time Special With El Real Pasta

Hey Moms! Here are recipes your kids may enjoy when they come home from school in the afternoons :)

Press Release:

Pasta is a favorite culinary staple of students, especially when going back to school. Make school time more enjoyable and memorable with one-of-a-kind dishes from El Real Pasta.

Transform ordinary meals with El Real’s many variants— available in Spaghetti, Flat Spaghetti, Elbow Macaroni, Salad Macaroni and Curly Macaroni. All variants cook in just ten minutes, ensuring the al dente quality of its noodles. Taste the best pasta dishes of the season with a succulent bite of these quick and easy El Real recipes.

CHICKEN TERIYAKI PASTA

Ingredients
½ cup onions, diced
1 tbsp garlic, diced
½ tbsp ginger, diced
1 tbsp chili fingers, sliced
1 cup bell peppers, julienne
1 kg chicken fillets, cubed
½ cup liquid seasoning
2 cups teriyaki sauce
½ cup sesame oil
¼ cup peanuts, chopped
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp cilantro, chopped
1 kg pack EL REAL SPAGHETTI, cooked to package directions
¼ cup chives



Procedure
Sauté onions, garlic, ginger, chili fingers, bell peppers and chicken fillet. Add liquid seasoning. Simmer to reduce liquid then add teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, cilantro and chili powder. Toss in El real Spaghetti then garnish with nuts, chives, and vegetable julienne.

LONGANISA MACARONI SALAD

Ingredients
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup all-purpose cream
½ cup condensed milk
1 cup garlic longganiza, boiled and chopped
¾ cup pineapple chunks
½ cup quick-melt cheese
(kesong puti or any processed cheese
may be substituted)
4 tsp red bell peppers, chopped
4 tsp cashew nuts, roughly chopped
400g EL REAL Salad Macaroni, cooked
Garnish parsley, chopped
To taste salt and pepper



Procedure
In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, all-purpose cream and condensed milk. Toss in all of the ingredients. Afterwards, toss in El Real Salad Macaroni Chill before serving. Serves 10-12 persons


Saturday, May 26, 2012

Vote for the last two finalists of the Promil Pre-School i-Shine Talent Camp

Press Release:

Who will complete this year’s Promil Pre-School’s i-Shine Talent Camp Top 12? The top 10 has already been selected and you have the power to decide who will become the last two finalists through your votes!

Twenty more talented hopefuls await your vote at ishine.abs-cbn.com. Watch their impressive talent videos and support your favorite! Only 1 vote per video per day is allowed. Voting period is from May 28 to June 3.


In partnership with ABS-CBN, the Promil Pre-School i-Shine Talent Camp is a TV reality show that aims to encourage parents to develop and support their child’s talent. Among the prizes that await the winner is a talent contract from Star Magic and Promil Pre-School, plus Php 500,000 in cash.

So vote for your favorite now and give him the chance to shine on-stage at the Promil Pre-School i-Shine Talent Camp. Who knows, he could be the country’s next big talent!

Promil Pre-School is a nutritious powdered milk drink for children 4-7 years old which contains Nutrissentials – a unique combination of essential nutrients that help optimize a child’s full potential.

For more details on Promil Pre-School i-Shine Talent Camp, visit http://ishine.abs-cbn.com, contact the Wyeth Careline at 81-WYETH (99384) or the provincial toll-free number 1-800-10-884-2222. You may also visit Promil Pre-School’s Facebook Fan Page at www.facebook.com/promilpreschool.


Friday, May 25, 2012

Twilight’s Kristen Stewart Turns Into Snow White

See another side of Kristen Stewart as she tackles a role where she plays a strong woman this time ...

Press Release:

In Snow White and the Huntsman, a breathtaking new vision of the legendary tale begins. Kristen Stewart plays the only person in the land fairer than the evil Queen Ravenna (Charlize Theron).The casting of Ravenna’s nemesis was slightly trickier than finding her pursuer. The filmmakers were searching for an actress who could capture both sides of the archetypal character: the innocence, naiveté and tenderness that Snow White demonstrates in the first half of our story, and the tough, physical warrior princess that she becomes in the second half. They discovered a number of younger actresses who could play the first half of the movie brilliantly but had trouble convincing the team that they could carry off the tougher persona. Likewise, when older actresses auditioned, they could well portray the battle-hardened soldier but were unconvincing as the recessive captive that the film’s early scenes demanded.

After a worldwide search for a performer who could fulfill the demands of this expansive role, Kristen Stewart, known for her role as Bella Swan in the blockbuster Twilight saga, was cast in the much coveted role of Snow White. Comments director Rupert Sanders of the team’s choice: “Kristen is such an incredible talent. She has obviously done amazing work in her projects to date, but this opens her up to an even larger audience and gives her a classical role. She’s previously been in films that are of our era and not done a film quite like this. This is her chance to rise, and to shine as well. The two track well together.”


Producer Joe Roth gives a bit of background on her casting: “We all felt convinced that Snow White was not shy but somebody who was an aggressive, assertive, positive Joan of Arc-like figure. We originally were looking for an unknown to play the character, in the same way we did on Alice in Wonderland, where we found Mia Wasikowska. However, Rupert and I decided to fly down to New Orleans, where the last Twilight film was being shot, and sat and talked to Kristen. We felt great about casting Kristen. She really did her homework for this role. She spent four months riding horses and four months with an English accent.”


Stewart introduces us to a young woman we thought we had long known: “We’re not trying to take Snow White and turn her on her side; we stay very true to who she is in the story. She represents a reminder of just how great people can be to one another.” Agreeing with Theron, the actress appreciated the material’s thoughtful take on beauty and power. Stewart says: “It’s been interesting to play a young girl who is completely unaware of any vanity. She just has none. In almost every other role you play, you’re at least aware of yourself and might have to play a girl dealing with vanity as she grows into a woman. The fact that Snow White has absolutely none of that, and Ravenna has the ultimate opposite, says something very nice about what people find beautiful in life.”


The performer appreciated the writers’ take on Snow White, a character initially trapped in a forest that draws its strength from any weakness. Stewart reflects: “I do admire strong characters, but this wasn’t strong for the sake of strong. It was so feminine and so human, and I love playing a character who is someone that you’re going to root for and throw your drink on the ground and stand up and go, ‘Yeah!’” This part represented Stewart’s first time as an action heroine, albeit a conflicted one. She says: “Snow White is initially this disconnected martyr. After she escapes, she’s becoming this human being again, but she’s not necessarily fighting for herself. It’s like there’s a hole that can’t be filled. Most action characters are so self-righteous and vindictive, but she won’t do that. I’ve never seen that before, and I think it’s awesome.”


Stewart knew there would be much stunt work involved in a production of this size and scope, and she was more than ready for the challenge. For example, during Snow White’s escape scene, the actress was required to be literally up to her shoulders in an enclosed sewer set with dozens of live rats. As well, she had to jump off of a two-story building into a pool on a chilly London day to make this daring escape.

Snow White and the Huntsman” is released and distributed by United International Pictures through Solar Entertainment Corp. Showing on June 1, 2012 nationwide.


Thursday, May 24, 2012

LIFEHOUSE Live! In Manila

Press Release:

Fall in love once again with American rock band, Lifehouse, as they take Manila by storm in an evening of extraordinary musical pleasure this May 26th at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Lifehouse’s leap to mainstream success started with the release of their international hit single “Hanging by a Moment” which became the Most Played Song in 2001. Written by Jason Wade, the song catapulted the band into commercial recognition. This was followed by other chart-topping hits such as “You and Me” and “Blind” from their self-titled album “Lifehouse” as well as “Whatever It Takes” from the album “Who We Are” all under MCA Music. Their latest album, “Smoke & Mirrors”, debuted at #6 on the Billboard 200 marking the highest chart debut of their 10-year career. It sold 500,000 units in the United States and over two million worldwide, owning the charts for twenty consecutive weeks.


Most of the band’s songs were featured on TV series and motion pictures in the United States. “Everything” was used in the series Smallville, “All in All” in Scrubs while “Good Enough” was played over the end credits of the Disney film “The Wild”. The band’s ability to evoke emotions and effectively translate it into a song was what gained them their massive fan base over the years. Tracks like “Sick Cycle Carousel”, “Everything”, “Breathing”, “First Time”, “You and Me” and more, were played over and over again by loyal listeners worldwide. These songs captured the hearts of millions and left them wanting more.

Lifehouse is composed of Jason Wade on lead vocals/rhythm guitar, Ben Carey on lead guitar, Rick Woolstenhulme Jr. on drums and Bryce Soderberg on bass guitar.

Their albums are now out in CDs at leading record stores and online via www.MyMusicStore.com.ph under MCA Music.

For those who missed the American rock band who gave us the hits “Hanging by a Moment”, “You and Me’, and “First Time” perform last July 2008, now is your chance to see them again. LIFEHOUSE is set to perform on Saturday, May 26, 2012 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Tickets are available at all Ticketnet outlets or call 911-5555 for more information. Ticket prices are at: Patron VIP 5,500, Patron 4,500, Lower Box VIP 4,000, Lower Box 3,500, Upper A 2,500, Upper B 1,500 and General Admissions 800 (subject to 6% service charge).

“LIFEHOUSE Live! in Manila” is brought to you by Dayly Entertainment and That’s Ntertainment Productions. Co-presented by Fox and Starworld. Official TV partner: ABS-CBN. Official Music Channel: MYX. With sponsors: WOW Karaoke, BDO Credit Cards. Media partners: RX 93.1, Mellow 94.7, 955 Pinas FM, 96.3 Easy Rock, 97.1 Brgy LS FM, 90.7 Love Radio, 101.1 YES FM, Win Radio, Big Radio, Business World, Philippine Star, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Business Mirror, Gala Magazine, Pep.ph, ClicktheCity.com, Philstar.com, Manila Concert Scene, Orange Magazine TV, WheninManila.com, PhilippineConcerts. Special thanks to: MCA Music (Universal Music Philippines), Exclusive Circle, Astroplus and Odyssey.


Wednesday, May 23, 2012

New “AMAZING SPIDER-MAN” Footage to Be Shown With “MEN IN BLACK 3”

Something to look forward to ...

Press Release:

Columbia Pictures has just announced that a never-before-seen footage from The Amazing Spider-Man™ will be shown as an added attraction to Men In Black 3 when it opens across the Philippines on Wednesday, May 23 in Digital 3D and regular theaters.


One of the world’s most popular characters is back on the big screen as a new chapter in the Spider-Man legacy is revealed in The Amazing Spider-Man™. Focusing on an untold story that tells a different side of the Peter Parker story, the new film stars Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Rhys Ifans, Denis Leary, Campbell Scott, Irrfan Khan, with Martin Sheen and Sally Field.

The film is directed by Marc Webb from a screenplay written by James Vanderbilt, based on the Marvel Comic Book by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko. Laura Ziskin, Avi Arad, and Matt Tolmach are producing the film in association with Marvel Entertainment for Columbia.


The Amazing Spider-Man is the story of Peter Parker (Garfield), an outcast high schooler who was abandoned by his parents as a boy, leaving him to be raised by his Uncle Ben (Sheen) and Aunt May (Field). Like most teenagers, Peter is trying to figure out who he is and how he got to be the person he is today. Peter is also finding his way with his first high school crush, Gwen Stacy (Stone), and together, they struggle with love, commitment, and secrets. As Peter discovers a mysterious briefcase that belonged to his father, he begins a quest to understand his parents’ disappearance – leading him directly to Oscorp and the lab of Dr. Curt Connors (Ifans), his father’s former partner. As Spider-Man is set on a collision course with Connors’ alter-ego, The Lizard, Peter will make life-altering choices to use his powers and shape his destiny to become a hero.

Opening across the Philippines on June 29 in 3D and regular theatres, “The Amazing Spider-Man” is distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.


Tuesday, May 22, 2012

ETC Airs AMERICAN IDOL Season 11 Grand Finale Night Live On May 24 at 8AM!

AI fans would surely not want to miss this! Save the date!

Press Release:

The votes are in and after weeks of performing on the American Idol stage Jessica Sanchez and Philip Philips have been chosen by America as the final two performers to compete for the crown. Find out who will be the next American Idol during the Grand Finale LIVE via Satellite this Thursday, May 24 at 8AM on ETC!

The Grand Finale night will be broadcast live from the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles, where the two remaining finalist will stand on stage before an audience of more than 7000 as well as a global TV audience of millions as host Ryan Seacrest announces the next American Idol. Prior to the results, watch the complete American Idol Season 11 Top 10 return to the stage to perform hit songs from the past season. Superstars Rihanna, Jason Derulo and Aerosmith are also set to perform.

Prior to the announcement Jessica and Philip will perform for the last time for America’s votes during the Top 2 performance show that will be aired on ETC on May 23, Wednesday via satellite at 6PM with a primetime telecast at 7PM and 10PM.

With ETC’s live telecast of the American Idol Season 11 Grand Finale Night you will find out at the same time as everyone in the world, who the newest Idol is. Forget the internet, forget radio, ETC will give you the results live!

American Idol Season 11 Top 2 Performance Show airs on May 23, Wednesday via satellite at 6PM with primetime telecasts at 7PM and 10PM on ETC

American Idol Season 11 Grand Finale Night airs LIVE via Satellite on May 24, Thursday at 8AM with primetime replays at 6pm and 9PM on ETC.


Monday, May 21, 2012

Graduation Marks Goodbyes In The Season 3 Finale Of GLEE

Press Release:

It’s time to say goodbye this May 23, Wednesday as the Glee Season 3 Finale premieres via satellite at 4PM on Jack TV and ETC. The school year has come to an end and it is time for McKinley High’s class of 2012 to put on their toga’s and caps ready for graduation.


The seniors look on to the future and begin making plans for life after high school. Quinn has been accepted into Yale, Mercedes wants to chase her vision of being a pop star, Santana has been accepted into the University of Louisville on a full cheerleading scholarship, Mike wants to continue dancing and Finn, Rachel and Kurt want to move to New York to pursue their dreams of acting and Broadway. But as they anticipate what adventures their new lives may hold they also take time to reflect on the past and the good times they have shared with their fellow glee club members.

Meanwhile fellow seniors Puck and Brittany may not be able to graduate due to poor grades, will they be able to do enough extra credit to pass or will they stay another year at McKinley High? As for juniors Artie, Blaine, Sam and Tina, the departure of half of the Glee Club will see their high school life changed forever.

Who’s staying in Lima and who’s moving on? What will Glee Season 4 be like and who’s journey after high school will we continue to follow? Which cast members are staying on and which are leaving the show for good? All will be revealed in the Glee Season 3 finale as seen first on Jack TV and ETC!

Glee stars Matthew Morrison, Jane Lynch, Lea Michele, Cory Monteith, Amber Riley, Chris Colfer, Kevin McHale, Jenna Ushkowitz, Mark Salling, Dianna Agron, Heather Morris, Naya Rivera, Harry Shum Jr. and Darren Criss.

GLEE SEASON 3 Finale Premieres on May 23, Wednesday Via Satellite at 4pm with a Prime Time Replay at 9pm On JACK TV and ETC.


Sunday, May 20, 2012

Johnson's Encourages Moms to Let Kids Go Out and Play

Press Release:

Growing up in the ‘80s, Pam remembers how much fun she had playing outdoors with her friends and neighbors, especially during summer. They would bike around their village, play patintero or piko, or hang out at the neighborhood park. It was an idyllic childhood.


And now, as a Mom of a 3-year-old girl and a 5-year-old boy, Pam wishes that her children could spend more time outdoors just like she did. Aside from the fun of the great outdoors, she’s read from experts that outdoor play can help stimulate children’s emotional, social and physical development .

But, Pam fears that exposure to the sun when outdoors can bring about various skin discomforts on her children like rashes and irritation, malodor and stickiness. Having less safe areas where her kids can play is also a big concern. Because of these, she’s guilty of one thing – limiting her kids’ outdoor playtime.

Pam is not alone. Many of today’s Moms feel the same way and that’s why JOHNSON’S®, the country’s number one baby care brand trusted by generations, presents a new advocacy campaign to help Moms confidently send their active, growing kids for outdoor play – JOHNSON’S® Play Days.

This summer 2012, JOHNSON’S® Play Days introduces three product platforms that are best for active, growing kids who want to play outdoors: 
1. No Bungang Araw 
2. Walang Lagkit Feeling 
 3. No Amoy-Araw


Aside from the products, JOHNSON’S® also brings to Moms and kids the country’s first and only travelling playground that will visit Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao to provide kids a fun and secure place to play in throughout summer.

There are still thousands of kids out there who have yet to experience the joy of outdoor play. But with JOHNSON’S® Play Days, more Moms can now freely tell their kids to … “Go out and play!”


Saturday, May 19, 2012

MCA Music OPM Artists SABRINA and KRISSY & ERICKA Shine at JAY PARK’S Manila Showcase

Press Release:

As Korean pop sensation Jay Park conquered Manila with his moves, MCA Music’s OPM artists—Asia’s Acoustic Sweetheart Sabrina and YouTube Sensations Krissy & Ericka, also took center stage as they opened for him during his shows.


Sabrina impressed the audience with songs from her current album “I Love Acoustic 4” at Jay Park’s shows at Eastwood Mall Open Park last May 4 and Lucky Chinatown Mall last May 6. She also performed for the first time her latest single “Somewhere Down The Road” from her upcoming album “Acoustic Love Notes” which will feature radio and TV personality Joe D’Mango. Prior to the show, she bonded with the Korean superstar at Red Box Eastwood where they also posed for photos with Jay directing their poses. Sabrina continues to make waves in Southeast Asia which was proven by the recent Platinum awarding of her album “I Love Acoustic 4” in Indonesia.

Sisters Krissy and Ericka meanwhile made an impact with their 3 song acoustic set last May 5 at the Venice Piazza at McKinley Hill. Jay Park was so delighted with their performance that he had to approach Krissy & Ericka to congratulate them before going up the stage to perform his own songs. Their single “12:51” from the album of the same title still rules the charts of radio stations from Luzon to Mindanao as well as music channels in the country. Krissy & Ericka is set to release their new single “In Your Arms”, another original song they wrote.


Sabrina’s album “I Love Acoustic 4” and Krissy & Ericka’s “Twelve: Fifty One” are still out at leading record stores and online via MyMusicStore.com.ph. Watch out for Sabrina’s new album “Acoustic Love Notes coming out this May. To download the music of Sabrina and Krissy & Ericka on your mobile phones, just text SABRINA or KANDE (for Krissy & Ericka) to 3456 (for Globe and Smart subscribers only).


Friday, May 18, 2012

WILL SMITH Reprises His Favorite Role In “MEN IN BLACK 3”

Who's excited to watch MIB 3? I am! :)

Press Release:

The `Men in Black’ movies are about the relationship between Agents J and K,” says Will Smith, who returns to one of his signature and favorite roles, Agent J, in Columbia Pictures’ eagerly anticipated adventured comedy, “Men in Black 3.”


“This movie brings that home – it’s about the power and origin of their relationship. It’s actually an idea we’ve had for years – we had the concept before the second movie – but it needed time to mature. What we had to do was elevate the story, and the only way to do that is to go deeper, deeper into the characters, deeper into the revelations that the movie would reveal.”

In the film, Agents J and K (Tommy Lee Jones) are back... in time. J has seen some inexplicable things in his 15 years with the Men in Black, but nothing, not even aliens, perplexes him as much as his wry, reticent partner. But when K’s life and the fate of the planet are put at stake, Agent J will have to travel back in time to put things right. J discovers that there are secrets to the universe that K never told him -- secrets that will reveal themselves as he teams up with the young Agent K (Josh Brolin) to save his partner, the agency, and the future of humankind.


It has been ten years since the Men in Black were last seen protecting the Earth from the scum of the universe, and since then, there has been rampant speculation about a third film – but Smith says that it was always a given that there would be a third film. “We came to a point where we all felt that we had a fresh and compelling story that took the audience to a time and place they had not seen in this franchise,” says Smith.

For his part, Will Smith was excited to put the black suit and shades on again. Agent J is one of his favorite characters and as he made his long-awaited return to the role there was nothing quite like getting into costume. “You can’t beat the black suit,” he says. “It’s such powerful, iconic imagery. You put on the suit and the shades and it throws you into the mental space of the Men in Black. It’s like a childhood fantasy – you know things that the other people don’t know and you’ve got the most important job in the world. The seven-year-old boy in me comes running out when I put the black suit on.”


Opening across the Philippines on May 23 in 3D and regular theaters, “Men in Black 3” will be distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.


Thursday, May 17, 2012

Kris Aquino: “Love ng Heart ko, San Marino”

Did you know that heart disease is the number 1 cause of death among Filipinos?

Press Release:

Having been aware that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the country, Queen of Talk, Kris Aquino, reveals one of the many ways on how she keeps her health healthy. “I eat foods which has lots of Omega-3. One product that I love is San Marino Corned Tuna.”

Every 180-gram can of San Marino Corned Tuna has 1,125 mg of Omega-3. Omega-3 which is naturally-found in tuna contributes to having a healthy heart as it lowers cholesterol and blood pressure. It also reduces risks of heart attack and other cardio-vascular diseases.


“Another reason why I love San Marino Corned Tuna is because it has less oil than the usual tuna flakes in oil products and has lots of tuna.” Kris adds, “And San Marino Corned Tuna has absolutely no preservatives.”

“I am definitely recommending San Marino Corned Tuna to my family and friends. I want them to have healthy hearts too,” Kris imparts.

To combat the increasing incidences of deaths from heart disease, Kris airs her plea for Filipinos to take care of their heart. “Alagaan natin ang ating puso.

For more than 10 years, heart disease has been the leading cause of death in the country. Almost 300 Filipinos die of heart disease every day based on the most recent data of the National Statistics Office (NSO). This number of deaths from heart ailments represents a high 21 percent of the total registered deaths in the country.


“What makes it heartbreaking is the fact that the prevalence rate is on the rise,” National Statistics Coordination Board (NSCB) noted. From 77,060 deaths from heart disease in 2005, the number rose to 100,908 in 2009. This is equivalent to 31 percent increase in just a span of 4 years.

Health authorities say that about 90 percent of the Filipinos are exposed to one or more risk factors that trigger the progression of heart disease. As such, most doctors recommend a balanced and active lifestyle to mitigate risks of heart diseases. One of the ways to keep one’s heart healthy is intake of foods rich in Omega-3.

According to clinical studies, Omega-3, which is naturally-found in tuna, contributes to having a healthy heart. It lowers cholesterol and blood pressure. It also reduces risks of heart attack and other cardio-vascular diseases.


Wednesday, May 16, 2012

THE KILLING: A Spellbinding Drama Back On JACK TV Premieres On Sunday, May 20

Press Release:

The most addictive and spellbinding drama series is back on Jack TV! Premiering May 20, Sunday at 10PM on Jack TV, the second season of The Killing continues the hunt for who killed Seattle teenager Rosie Larsen. After numerous twists and several possible suspects, homicide detectives Sarah Linden (Mireille Enos) and Steven Holder (Joel Kinnaman) are still far from discovering the truth behind the young girl’s tragic end.

Picking up right where Season 1 left off, Linden thought the case was closed when she accused prime suspect city councilman Darren Richmond (Billy Campbell) of murder after she saw a surveillance photo of him in the car that Rosie’s body was found in. However, after a phone call informing her that the CCTV camera where the photo was supposedly taken has in fact been out of service for months her entire case is brought back to zero.


Now Linden must start again from the beginning and track down new leads and clues. After the incident with the fake photo she now does not know who she can trust, even her partner Holder looks to be corrupt. As Linden uncovers more of the truth behind the death of Rosie Larsen and all the possible motives for the murder, she sets in to motion the unraveling of an even more surprising and explosive story. But she better be careful as her hunt for a murderer could also be her death sentence.

The Killing is based on the hit Danish TV series Forbrydelsen. The first season of the show saw Enos nominated for an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series, while the show was nominated for Outstanding Casting, Directing, Single-Camera Picture Editing and Writing.

THE KILLING SEASON 2 PREMIERES ON MAY 20, SUNDAY AT 10PM ON JACK

Jack TV is seen on Destiny Cable Channel 30, Cable Link Channel 57 and Sky Cable Channel 51.


Tuesday, May 15, 2012

JOHN CUSACK Plays EDGAR ALLAN POE in “THE RAVEN”

Fans of John Cusack and Edgar Allan Poe are in for a treat with this movie!

Press Release:

Acclaimed actor John Cusack portrays Edgar Allan Poe, one of literature's most fascinating authors, in Intrepid Pictures' new stylish, gothic thriller “The Raven.” The film will be shown exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas (Glorietta 4, Greenbelt 3 and Trinoma) starting May 23.

When a madman begins committing horrific murders inspired by Poe’s darkest works, a young Baltimore detective (Luke Evans) joins forces with Poe in a quest to get inside the killer’s mind in order to stop him from making every one of Poe’s brutal stories a blood chilling reality. A deadly game of cat and mouse ensues, which escalates when Poe’s love (Alice Eve) becomes the next target.


Cusack talks about “The Raven” in the following interview:

Q: What made you want to be part of this film and play Edgar Allan Poe?

John Cusack: I really liked James McTeigue. He’s a great director and had a really good vision. People have wanted to do a story about Poe for a long time, but biopics are tough. You can only do so many things with time and have to flash forward or backward. His creative life was so vast, that we thought we could put Poe as a character in his own stories.

The conceit of the story was smart and it allowed us to explore more of his works in a piece of fiction. This is Poe’s version of going mad and other themes he had, but it is also true to the source because he was a great master writer, a master of the English language, and a master poet. He also invented the detective genre, he was the godfather of goth, he wrote satire, and he also did burlesque. The movie got to show all of his sides.

Q: What kind of research did you do to prepare for the role? Was it difficult for you to find personal information?

Cusack: There were no telephones back then, so everyone communicated with letters. The great thing about researching him was that there are so many of his letters, which were incredibly revealing. That’s where you can see that there were very human parts of him and also a side that was at war with the world. He had all of these feelings of despair and loneliness, and a lot of passion.

I read many of the biographies and really liked Peter Ackroyd’s short biography Poe: A Life Cut Short. I immersed myself in Poe’s books, reading all of his stories to really get into him. What I respond to most in his works is when he is writing about that twilight space between waking and dreaming, and life and death. He’s always exploring that twilight space, where he’s attracted to these almost godlike female figures in his life. There is this eternal love mixed with death being in the room.

Q: Was there anything you found particularly interesting or surprising while doing your research?

Cusack: I wasn’t aware that he was conscious of his fame, but he was actually very famous when he was alive. I also didn’t know that he went to West Point and held a swimming record. I didn’t know to the extent that he was at war and competitive with other writers. I knew about his melancholy and sorrow, but I didn’t know about his brittleness and spitefulness. He really did feel like the world was his stage and he must conquer it. He said once that he wouldn’t put up with anyone he could put down. It has been said that he didn’t say one good word about another English writer, living or dead.

He really liked women and liked being adored by women. I think he felt competitive and threatened by men, because he didn’t really have many male friends. Many of the women in his life had died. His mother died in his arms of tuberculosis and he sort of found a step mother in a woman that was a friend of his. She died of tuberculosis too and he married his cousin who also died of tuberculosis. So it was really like he was taking his sorrow and turning it into all of these stories and creativity. When you play someone who is like an icon like this, it can get two dimensional after a while. You think of him as the sad Halloween guy, but when you research the life, you see that he’s writing satire and burlesque and science fiction. He had such a wild and crazy imagination. He was out there.

Q: Do you think The Raven will inspire people to give Edgar Allan Poe’s stories a try after watching the movie?

Cusack: I hope so. If it makes people want to read his stories again, that would be pretty cool. If they read his stories, they will be able to see what we were trying to do.


Q: Seeing as you were friends with Hunter S. Thompson, I was wondering if you thought about Hunter when playing this role? It seemed like you kind of channeled his manic energy in this.

Cusack: I knew Hunter really well and I can see Hunter in Poe. If you read the The Imp of the Perverse, you can see how much it influenced Hunter right there. There is the confessional aspect, with the embracing of the abyss and being drawn almost magnetically to it. There is also the courage to confront your demons in some ways.

Q: What was your fascination with Poe and why do you relate to him?

Cusack: It’s an interesting headspace and he’s an interesting character. We’re all sort of attracted to the abyss. Around Halloween, doesn’t everyone get into the supernatural, ghouls, and the underworld? It’s not something I want to stay in, but it’s a fun place to visit once in a while.

There are not many writers who try to think about what their worst nightmare is. Most people want to wake up and get away from it, but some want to go deeper. He just had this interesting mind and wanted to embrace the nightmare. His romance with the abyss makes him courageous, tragic, and sympathetic. We all have a bit of that in us and I thought it was fun to do for a limited time.


Monday, May 14, 2012

Luscious Layers Of Ko-Yo Only From Bonchon

Just tried Bonchon's Blueberry Torte Ko-Yo earlier today and found it really, really yummy! I'll go for Banoffee Pie next time :) Try it, too, soon!

Press Release:

Delight in the new BonChon Ko-Yo (korean yogurt), delectably creamy natural yogurt that’s subtly sweet with a hint of tangy tartness. These cool creations take inspiration from classic pie favorites, alternating layers of Ko-Yo with premium ingredients.


Savor the rich caramel sauce and fresh bananas of the Banoffee Pie or the heavenly blueberry preserves of the Blueberry Torte. Every spoonful of these layered treats capture a delicious play of textures and tastes, withBonChon’s own baked graham pie crust providing a pleasurable crumbly bite.

BonChon’s new Ko-Yo is available for only P70, or savor the sensation of pure Ko-Yo in a mini cup for only P35. Available in the following BonChon branches: Alabang (Alabang Town Center), Quezon City (Libis, Katipunan, TriNoma), Makati (Greenbelt 1), Manila (Taft – University Mall, Lucky Chinatown – Binondo), Origas (ShangrI-la Plaza), Pasay (SM MOA), and Taguig (One Parkade – BGC).


Ericsson Invites Filipinos to Participate in Historic Worldwide Photo Event

We all love taking pictures whether of ourselves, people and pets we love, places we've been to, and more. Tomorrow, don't forget to join and be part of this huge worldwide project!  

Press Release:

Leave a message for the future – take photos on May 15 and join the worldwide “A Day in the World” photography project!


Ericsson is the founding partner in the "A Day in the World" photography project, which aims to document moments from all parts of the world by professional and amateur photographers alike. The photographs will be collected online and later saved in the national archives of participating countries.

Together with Expressions of Humankind, a Sweden-based foundation who is behind the projct, Ericsson invites everyone on May 15, 2012, to take photographs to illustrate the energy of one single day.

This resulting gigantic photo collection will be given direction, structure and context, making it a relevant portrait of today, for tomorrow.

Ericsson, as a global enabler of modern telecommunications and a company founded on the belief that communications is a basic human need, is a founding partner and member of the project’s technical advisory board. Richard Brisius, head of Ericsson Global Marketing Communications, said: "People are closer to each other thanks to good quality, high-speed connectivity. This is a great project about global collaboration and learning, something we believe is central to humankind, now and in the future."

Aside from Ericsson as the founding partner for the project, the Expressions of Humankind foundation is supported by several boards and councils, with members including Nobel Peace Prize winner Archbishop Desmond Tutu, entrepreneur and adventurer Sir Richard Branson, and Professor Harriet Wallberg-Henriksson, president of Sweden’s Karolinska Institute. Ericsson has a representative in the technical advisory council that supervises the technical structure, security, user interface and global accessibility of the platforms.

Take photos of your day at home, at work, or of your connections – visit the website at www.aday.org or at www.ericsson.com to learn more and to upload your photos on May 15.


Sunday, May 13, 2012

“JACK AND THE BEANSTALK” Gala Night Set on May 20

Parents! Expose your kids to the wonders of Philippine theater by bringing them to watch this classic story!

Press Release:

In celebration of its 10th year anniversary, Kids Acts Philippines, Inc. proudly presents a special gala performance of “JACK AND THE BEANSTALK” - the famous English classic fairy tale written by Joseph Jacobs on May 20, 2012 – 6 p.m. at the Star Theater, Star City, CCP Complex.


“JACK AND THE BEANSTALK” is a story of a young boy who traded his cow for magic beans that have turned out to be a beanstalk growing up to the sky where a giant lived with his golden harp and golden hen that lays golden eggs. “JACK AND THE BEANSTALK” is the culminating workshop activity of Kids Acts Philippines’ theater program for children from this year’s summer classes dubbed as ‘TheCampArt’.

‘TheCampArt’ is a Musical Theatre Workshop which incorporates the singing, dancing and acting abilities of the actors to create a musical presentation integrating their multiple intelligences that recapitulates the whole duration of the program. This is one of the best training grounds to hone talents, to boost confidence, to explore creativity and to develop a relevant notion of observation to different characters and personalities. This guarantees the worth of interaction among children in a very fun and unique way of acting exercises and theater games.

Children who enrolled in the program are called ‘TheCampArt’ Kids. They are taught the rudiments of theatre and given a chance to perform on the professional stage with a showcase that is adapted from classic literary children’s tale. The workshop is the training ground of Kids Acts Philippines to choose the members of its actor scholars called ‘TheCampArt’ Kid Actors Scholarship. This is an advance training program to enrich and develop focusing on the artistic need of the kids ages 7 to 12 years old and teens ages 13 to 16 years old, who are interested to become professional theater actors. This is the only or one of the best programs in the country that produces professional musical theater plays exclusively for kids and by the kids.

The script , lyrics and direction of “JACK AND THE BEANSTALK” is by Luigi Nacario and music is by Eugene Belbis – who both run and manage KIDS ACTS PHILIPPINES, INC.

Over the past summer seasons, KAPI has produced musical plays in several titles that are customized to its workshop students such as The Wizard of Oz, Alice in Wonderland, Hansel and Gretel, The Little Mermaid, Peter Pan and Pinocchio.

The artistic and creative team of “JACK AND THE BEANSTALK” is led by Luigi Nacario (Artistic Director), with Eugene Belbis (Music and Musical Director), Ninya Bedruz (Technical and Lighting Designer), Manuel Edralin (Graphics and Production Designer), and Philleep Masaquel (Choreographer) .

The production staff is composed of Antonette Garcia (Production Manager), Josephus Gayona (Stage Manager), and Gladys Ursua, Jun Sedo, Julius Manalo, Roxcel Acaban (Assistant Stage Managers).

The marketing, sales and publicity team is led by Toots Tolentino (PR and Publicity), Luz De Leon (Marketing Consultant), and Manuel Perez (Videographer/Photographer),

Kids Acts Philippines is also offering Summer School Workshops to all kids ages 3 to 12 years old from International Schools in the Philippines dubbed as ‘TheCampArt’ 2012 International Summer School Musical Theatre Workshops. Classes start on June 11 to July 23, this five week musical theatre training will also stage “Jack and the Beanstalk’ as their culminating activity.

More so, KAPI is very happy to announce its 10th Theatre Season Musical line up for school year 2012-2013. The season will open with the original musical adaptation of “PETER PAN” on September 21 to 30; “HANSEL AND GRETEL” on October 19 to 28, to be performed exclusively by kids in celebration with the International Children’s Month; and “ROMEO AND JULIET” on November 23 to 30 and December 1-2 as its season ender. All performances will be held also at STAR THEATER.

For tickets, inquiries, sponsorships, fundraisings and other information, call KIDS ACTS PHILIPPINES at 750-1551; 0915-4478959; 0919-4338565 or email kidsactsphilippines@yahoo.com.ph.

Visit www.kidsacts.com. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/kidsactsphilippines. Follow us on twitter, @KidsActs.


Saturday, May 12, 2012

GOTYE and LANA DEL REY: Breakthrough Artists

Press Release:

One reason why it has become harder to penetrate the music scene these days is the stiff competition, especially with YouTube giving any talent the window to the world. But wait, there’s still truth to the saying that “many are called, but few are chosen.”

No doubt the likes of Gotye and Lana Del Rey belong to the few, with their chart-topping songs and staggering number of YouTube views providing credence to the claim. Both carrying likable stage names and having released significant indie recordings prior to mainstream success, they’re simply commendable to be labeled as “Breakthrough Artists of 2012.”


The Belgian-Australian Gotye, with his song “Somebody That I Used To Know” selling nearly five million downloads, is the first Australian act to top the Billboard 100 Chart this 21st century and the first Belgian to accomplish the feat since 1963. The track, which he recorded with the artist Kimbra, already accumulated 200 million views and counting, with several covers appearing everywhere.

Recently, Gotye’s international hit, also reaching the top of the Billboard Digital Songs Chart and Billboard On-Demand Streaming Chart, was featured on Fox's hit show “Glee,” interpreted by Darren Criss and Matthew Bomer. It was likewise covered on "American Idol," featuring the voices of Elise Testone and Phillip Phillips.

Last February, he made his American television debut on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” with him performing the piece "Eyes Wide Open", his first single off his latest album “Making Mirrors” and a nominee at the 2011 APRA Music Awards for Song of the Year category.

The album title inspired by an old artwork created by his father, he expressed, "The mirror reflects on the artwork and it is all very related to self-reflection and introspection on the album."

As for American singer-songwriter Lana Del Rey, her time has arrived as well. Her now released debut album “Born To Die” ushers the beautiful irony that she is here to survive the competition, armed with talent, original compositions, and charisma.

The album, with nearly a million units shipped in just its first week in the market, already topped the iTunes chart in 18 countries, even becoming the fastest-selling digital album ever in France. For two weeks it also spent at the top of the Official UK Album Chart, thus resulting to two worldwide hits including the title track.

Video Games,” the album's first single, spent almost ten weeks in the UK Top 20. Its YouTube views got past 28 million, while her Facebook page has gathered five million supporters and counting as of press time.

In an interview she stated, "I wanted to be part of a high-class scene of musicians. I was hoping that I would meet people and fall in love and start a community around me, the way they used to do in the '60s."

Recently she took home the Q award for the title "Next Big Thing", along with the Breakthrough Artist citation at the BRIT Awards 2012, beating the sensational Nicki Minaj.

Both the breakout albums of Gotye (“Making Mirrors”) and Lana Del Rey (“Born To Die”) are locally distributed under MCA Music in CDs at leading record bars nationwide or online via mymusicstore.com.ph.

To download Gotye's current single “Somebody That I Used To Know” on your mobile phones, just text KA136 and send to 2332 for GLOBE/TM, text STIUTK and send to 2728 for SMART/ Talk N’ Text and text 5493375 and send to 2300 for SUN Cellular.

To download Lana Del Rey's current single “Born To Die” on your mobile phones, just text KA142 and send to 2332 for GLOBE/TM, text BORN2DIE and send to 2728 for SMART/ Talk N’ Text and text 5493353 and send to 2300 for SUN Cellular.


Friday, May 11, 2012

Mom’s Day Weekend Treat at Bikram Yoga Alabang

Press Release:

Want a great way to spend time with your mom on her day? Try Bikram yoga with her! Dedicated practitioners include celebrity moms like Madonna and Rebecca Romjin. Performed in a heated room with temperature up to 40 degrees Celsius, Bikram yoga involves 26 poses designed to promote physical health, strength, balance, and cardiovascular and mental well-being. The 90-minute session brings together focus and relaxation, according to Ginger Diaz, Bikram Yoga Alabang studio director.


“The exercise truly touches your outlook on life by inducing a positive state of mind,” Diaz shared. “You might not understand how the relaxation happens unless you try a class yourself. Bikram yoga is well known to be challenging but the benefits are endless once you get over the heat and focus on yourself.” Bikram yoga practitioners swear by the benefits they get from regular practice including improved metabolism, regulated blood-sugar levels, and total body toning.

For all weekends of May starting on May 12 and 13, Mother’s Day weekend, Bikram Yoga Alabang is treating moms to free classes. Both moms and kids can definitely get the full benefits of Bikram yoga from a team of certified instructors, and the amenities of a state-of-the-art facility managed by professional staff.


Bikram Yoga Alabang is located at the 2nd Floor, Commerce Center, Commerce Ave., Filinvest, Alabang, Muntinlupa City. Interested moms must register a day before the class by calling 846-5496.

You may also visit the Bikram Yoga Alabang website at www.bikramyogaalabang.com. Be a fan on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/bikramalabang or follow @bikram_alabang on Twitter for updates and announcements.


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