Jollibee Kids Club Members Explore A World Of Fun And Learning

If your kids are not yet a member of the JKC, they are missing a lot! Sign them up now!

Press Release:

More than just having the opportunity to make new friends and showcase their talents in exciting workshops, Jollibee Kids Club (JKC) members also get to enjoy many perks that take them to cool places. From dressing up as their favorite superheroes to discovering amazing facts about science, Jollibee Kids Club members took part in various activities in the JKC Cosplay Fun Day and the JKC Mind Museum Tour recently.

Cosplaying the JKC way

JKC members trooped to SM EDSA Skydome dressed as their favorite anime characters, superheroes, fairies, and princesses for an afternoon of treats and games at the JKC Cosplay Fun Day. With everyone’s favorite friend, Jollibee, in the lead, kids paraded around the mall grounds showcasing their unique costumes accompanied by popular characters including Megatron and the Mirage of the Transformers.

John Danielle Villanueva, garbed in a Star Giant Robot costume, won first place in the cosplay competition, while Lucas Bustos and Xyrus Yael Pragamac were the runners-up. “I love robots and I’m really happy that I got to dress as one and join other kids who are also in costumes,” said John Danielle. “I really enjoyed coming up with the design for my costume. Good thing my mom and dad helped me.”

The winners of the Cosplay Fun Day received pre-loaded Happy Plus cards and gift bags from the sponsors. The event allowed the kids to interact and have fun with other club members, promoting social development and helping them become more confident individuals.

Seeing science come alive

At The Mind Museum in Taguig City, select JKC members and their parents spent an entire day marveling at the wonders of science. From finding out about the Earth’s 4-billion-year story and listening to the sound of outer space, to watching wacky science experiments and letting their hair stand on end with the electrostatic ball, the kids were in awe as they took turns getting their hands on the interactive exhibits.

“I love being a Jollibee Kids Club member because I don’t only get to share my talents and meet new friends, I also get to visit fun places,” shared seven-year-old Jane Sophia. “I really enjoyed going around The Mind Museum. My favorites were the shows about how the Earth and the universe were born. Now I love science even more!”

“Since he joined JKC, my son has become even more sociable and active,” said the mom of five-year-old JKC Member Rayven. “He couldn’t wait for today because he was very excited about visiting the museum. It’s great that JKC takes them to an educational place where they can learn and have fun at the same time.”

“Learning becomes a more enjoyable affair for kids when they are having fun” said Jollibee Marketing Manager Coleen Niguidula-Ducusin. “And through exciting events such as the Cosplay Fun Day and The Mind Museum tour, we hope to nurture JKC members’ imagination and skills, so they can bloom and believe in their own abilities.”

Les Miserables: The Motion Picture Soundtrack Deluxe Edition – In Stores March 18!

Les Mis fans, more good news!

Press Release:

MCA Music (Universal Music Philippines) is proud to announce that an expanded, two-disc deluxe edition of the soundtrack to the film version of Les Miserables will be released next month. The complete Motion Picture Soundtrack will have 22 more tracks than the Highlights edition currently available.

Available in both physical and digital formats, the full soundtrack is expected to be in stores by March 18. The Highlights edition, which has 20 tracks in all, currently tops the UK album chart and is the fastest-selling album in the UK this year.

"Post-production on the Les Miserables film was extremely tight, with recording of the orchestra, final edit and sound mix having to be completed in only a few weeks," said producer Sir Cameron Mackintosh. "There was only enough time to remix a limited number of tracks so that at least a highlights album could be released for the fans before Christmas. We are delighted with the success of that album and very pleased that we can now add 22 more tracks.” The new record's release, he continued, meant "that audiences can now enjoy at home a full representation of the film's powerful and emotional version of this great score".

The new CD packaging will feature previously unseen photos from the film set as well as additional explanatory notes.

Directed by Tom Hooper, the film version of the long-running stage success stars Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Eddie Redmayne, Samantha Barks and Amanda Seyfried.

The box-office hit was honored with four BAFTA film awards and will be up for eight Oscars at the Academy Awards on 24 February.

Meanwhile, you may now get the "Les Miserables: Highlights from The Motion Picture Soundtrack" in CDs at Astroplus, Odyssey Music & Video and Fully Booked or online via iTunes  and www.MyMusicStore.com.ph  

“Maxie The Musical” Auditions Set On March 9-10

Whether you're a veteran or an aspiring theater actor, here's your chance to shine on stage! Join this audition!

Press Release:

Bit by Bit Company proudly the audition details of its forthcoming production “MAXIE The Musical. Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros.”

Auditions are set on March 9 (Saturday) and 10 (Sunday), 2013 at Studio A of the Peta Theater Center, No. 5 Eymard Drive, New Manila, Quezon City. 

Registration starts at 12 noon. Auditions begin at 1 p.m. and will end 8 p.m.

Auditionees are advised that they are expected to sing, dance and act with equal facility.

The roles are as follows: 

MAXIE - Must look 13 -15 years of age. Must be androgenous; able to pass off as both male and female. Has a strong soprano voice. Must be able to dance. If auditioning for this role please prepare a pop song that will showcase your vocal range.

VICTOR - Police officer, object of Maxie’s puppy love, affection. Must look like in his mid to late 20s. Should be willing to appear on stage in underwear. Strong baritone or tenor voice. Must be able to sing both ballad and rock songs.

BOGS - Early 20s. Maxie’s brother. Preferably able to play the guitar. If auditioning for this role, please prepare a slow OPM song and showcase guitar ability.

BOY - Late 20s. Maxie’s brother. Eldest of the siblings. Strong baritone voice.

ART - Mid to late 20s. Victor’s police partner. Willing to play multiple roles.

PETER - 15-17years of age. A closet bully. Must have comic timing. Background in dance is preferable.

PACO -  40’s. Petty crime lord. Maxie’s father.  Must have a strong Tenor voice.

Ensemble players : 15 years old and above with strong singing voices (all vocal ranges) and acting capacities. Be ready to sing 1 song from a PINOY ALTERNATIVE BAND and 1 song from a BROADWAY MUSICAL. Be ready with a dance piece, Either HIPHOP, CONTEMPORARY or JAZZ. Be ready to learn a dance combination

“MAXIE The Musical. Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros” --- Book and Lyrics by Palanca Hall of Fame Awardee Nicolas Pichay. Music by William Elvin Manzano, Arkel Suaco Mendoza and Jj Valiente Pimpinio. Direction and Choreography by Dexter Martinez Santos.  Presented through special arrangement with Origin8 Media. Based on Michiko Yamamoto's screenplay "Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros" (ufo Pictures, 2005)

“Maxie The Musical: Ang Pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros” is set to open on Nov. 15, 2013 and will run until Nov. 24, 2013 at the Peta Theater Center in New Manila, Quezon City.

For more information, visit the official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/MaxieTheMusical.

Philippines’ AirAsia Introduces New Customer-Friendly Services with New Hotline and Cash Payment Partners

Great job AirAsia for your continuous innovations!

Press Release:

Clark, Pampanga, 22 February 2013 – Philippines’ AirAsia, the low cost carrier with the youngest fleet, today announced significant changes in its customer call center. Starting February 25, Philippines’ AirAsia’s new customer hotline number will be 742ASIA or 742.27.42.

“To provide optimum customer care service for our guest, AirAsia is launching two new significant innovations. We have a new customer hotline that is easy to remember and we are also rolling out our cash payment partner with 7-Eleven store for our passengers who want to avail of our online promo and other privileges but would like to pay in cash instead of using their credit cards,” AirAsia Inc. Commercial head Freddy Herrera said.

AirAsia’s payment partner service provides the convenience of using cash when paying for AirAsia promo fares and other online purchases at www.airasia.com.

“Filipinos will embrace this new concept of paying cash for airline tickets via our payment partners option because of its simplicity and convenience,” Herrera added.  

The payment partner service covers all Philippines’ AirAsia flights from its hub in Clark International Airport to Taipei, Singapore, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur including domestic flights to Davao and Kalibo (Boracay).

“We are expanding our payment partners service to include other outlets in the coming weeks so that more and more people will benefit from AirAsia’s awesome low fares and extensive route network covering 80 destinations in 20 countries,” Herrera said.

More than 800 7-Eleven stores nationwide will start accepting cash payments for AirAsia on February 28. AirAsia’s new Philippine hotline number, +632.742.2742, meanwhile, will start on February 25. It will be open daily, from Monday to Sunday, at 8:00AM – 9:00PM.

About AirAsia Inc.

As part of its commitment to develop tourism and transportation outside Metro Manila, AirAsia Inc. set up its hub in Clark, Pampanga in 2011. In the same year, Filipinos welcomed the airline’s brand new Airbus A320s operated by an all-Filipino crew, signifying greater opportunities for travel, leisure and tourism industries in the country.

AirAsia Inc. is a 60-40 joint venture between Filipino investors Antonio O. Cojuangco, Michael L. Romero and Marianne B. Hontiveros, and Malaysia’s AirAsia International Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of AirAsia Berhad, which has won SkyTrax’s best low cost airline for four consecutive years. (Skytrax is the world’s largest airline and airport review site.)

Nickelodeon Unveils 2013 Kids’ Choice Awards Nominees

Kids and kids-at-heart! Here are updates from one of Nickelodeon's popular annual events! Start voting for your favorites now!

Press Release:

Nickelodeon fans have spoken! Voting for their favorites in television, sports, music and film, kids everywhere have made their voices heard as the network announces the nominees for Nickelodeon’s 26th Annual Kids’ Choice Awards, airing Saturday, March 23.  Vying for the sought-after blimp award are mega-stars Adele, Justin Bieber, Big Time Rush, Bon Jovi, Miranda Cosgrove, Johnny Depp, Robert Downey Jr., Selena Gomez, Anne Hathaway, Vanessa Hudgens, Victoria Justice, Jennifer Lawrence, Maroon 5, Bruno Mars, One Direction, Katy Perry, Michael Phelps, Julia Roberts, Chris Rock, Adam Sandler, Will Smith, Kristen Stewart, Ben Stiller, Taylor Swift, Tim Tebow, and Venus and Serena Williams. Hollywood’s biggest kid, Josh Duhamel, will be hosting the slime-fest, telecast live from USC’s Galen Center from 8-9:30 p.m. (ET/PT).

Nickelodeon’s Kids’ Choice Awards 2013 continues to be a global event with the localized international categories. Nickelodeon fans across North and Southeast Asia will be given the opportunity to support their regional artists by voting in an Asian exclusive category, Favorite Asian Act. Featuring four of Asia’s most popular music acts, first-time nominees Han Geng (China), Psy (Korea), Sarah Geronimo (Philippines) and ShilaAmzah (Malaysia) join the star-studded line-up of incredible artists from all over of the world.

Sarah Geronimo

Kids have already began casting their votes in 22 categories, including the newly introduced nominations for Favorite App and Favorite Villain, across all of Nickelodeon’s digital outlets including kca2013.com and nick-asia.com, all desktop and mobile devices, and Nickelodeon’s Facebook page and Twitter feed. On Facebook, users will be able to vote from a tab on the page and the entire voting experience can be embedded directly into wall posts, and on Twitter users be able to vote using custom KCA hashtags.

Johnny Depp

It’s a fight to the cinematic finish as Kids' Choice Awards former host and winner Will Smith, Johnny Depp¸ Zachary Gordon and newcomer Andrew Garfield nabbed nominations for Favorite Movie Actor: Smith for Men in Black 3, Depp for Dark Shadows, Gordon for Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days and Garfield for The Amazing Spider-Man. Jennifer Lawrence, Kristen Stewart and Scarlett Johansson kicked butt with dual nominations for Favorite Movie Actress and Favorite Female Buttkicker, while The Avengers, The Amazing Spider-Man, The Hunger Games and Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days are all up for Favorite Movie. 

Justin Bieber

In television, Miranda Cosgrove, Bridgit Mendler, Selena Gomez and Victoria Justice round out the Favorite TV Actress nominees, with iCarly, Good Luck Charlie, Wizards of Waverly Place and 2012 KCA winner Victorious also competing for Favorite TV Show. First time nominees Carlos Pena (Big Time Rush), Lucas Cruikshank (Marvin Marvin), Jake T. Austin (Wizards of Waverly Place) and Ross Lynch (Austin & Ally) were tapped for Favorite TV Actor. 

Taylor Swift scored three nominations: one for Favorite Voice from an Animated Movie (The Lorax), Favorite Song (“We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together”) and Favorite Female Singer.  Last year’s Favorite Music Group Big Time Rush made the list again and are up against Maroon 5, Bon Jovi and One Direction whose single “What Makes You Beautiful” is also nominated for Favorite Song. 

Presenting sponsors of Nickelodeon's 26th Annual Kids' Choice Awards in the U.S. are General Mills, Hasbro Twister Rave Games and Target. Associate sponsors in the U.S. are Bounty™, McDonald’s®, nabi, Wii U from Nintendo and Skechers. The pan regional sponsors for the 2013 Nickelodeon's Kids' Choice Awards are 20th Century Fox and The Croods.

Himig Handog Finals Night on SKYcable Season Pass

Can't make it to MOA Arena tomorrow night? You can still enjoy watching Himig Handog live from the comfort of your home! 

Press Release:

The gathering of the country’s most talented composers and brightest hitmakers will now be available at home as SKYcable Season Pass brings you this year’s Himig Handog P-Pop Love Songs Finals Night, live and commercial-free with exclusive behind-the-scenes scoop.

Now on its fifth year, the festival welcomes talented composers from various parts of the country in a one-night presentation of original love songs.

Out of 2,500 compositions, twelve finalists have been chosen to be sung by the country’s top artists. Also in celebration of ABS-CBN’s 60th year in Philippine Television, this year’s Himig Handog follows the success of Himig Handog sa Makabagong Kabataan and Himig Handog sa Bayaning Pilipino.

This year, catch never-before-seen performances of the music industry’s Toni Gonzaga, Erik Santos, Yeng Constantino, Angeline Quinto, Jovit Baldivino, Bugoy Drilon, Aiza Seguerra, and Juris, together with new recording artists like Daniel Padilla, KZ Tandingan, Marion Aunor and Wynn Andrada as they perform and interpret this year’s Himig Handog P-Pop Love Songs.

Be one of the firsts to find out the results as SKYcable now lets you and your family enjoy this year’s musical event live at the comfort of your home. For only P100, catch the commercial-free telecast of Himig Handog Finals Night on pay-per-view this February 24, 7:30 pm when you subscribe to SKYcable Season Pass. Subscribers also get exclusive behind-the-scenes scoop through this offer. 

Have an unparalleled viewing experience with SKYcable’s exclusive offerings that take home entertainment a notch higher.

For more information, visit www.mysky.com.ph or call SKYcable’s hotline at 381 0000 (Metro Manila, CAMANAVA, Rizal), 046-484 4701 (Cavite), 049-534 2814 (San Pedro, Binan, and Calamba, Laguna), or 044-693 5877 (San Jose del Monte, Bulacan).

Korean Boy Band 2PM Set To Perform In Manila This March

K-Pop fans, here's something you might be waiting for!

Press Release:

Manila, Philippines – Korean boy band sensation 2PM is coming for its first-ever concert in Manila this March. The most awaited Philippine concert debut dubbed as 2013 2PM LIVE TOUR in Manila “What time is it” is set to thrill audiences on March 2 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Known for their smashing hits and acrobatic dance moves, 2PM members Ok Taecyeon, Jang Wooyoung, Jun.K, Hwang Chanseong, Lee Junho and Nichkhun will perform their hit singles such as “Hands Up”, “Heart Beat”, “Again and Again” and “Crazy Over You” for its Filipino fans in this one-night-only concert.

The award-winning group has performed in sold-out venues for their thousands of fans in South Korea, China, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Macau, Taiwan, Thailand; and this year, Manila has been chosen as the very first stop to launch the 2013 2PM LIVE TOUR “What time is it” world series. After the Philippines, 2PM will continue to visit the rest of their Asian fans with a concert at the Guangzhou Gymnasium in Guangzhou, China on March 30 and at the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand on April 8.

“In the past years, 2PM has conquered the whole of Asia and the world and we are excited to bring them to the Philippines for the first time to give thousands of their Filipino fans the chance to witness their outstanding performances live,” shares Nian Rigor, Head of IMC of Hoopla Inc, the local co-promoter of this one-night-only concert.

2PM is under the management of JYP Entertainment who also handles the Kpop girl group sensation Wonder Girls. The South Korean boy band has been awarded by Oricon music chart for their 2PM Live 2012 Six Beautiful Days as one of the best concerts in Japan last year. Thay have also won the New Artist of the Year and Best New Artist in Asia at the 26th Japan Gold Disc Award, and got the Best Group Video award at the MTV Video Music Award in Japan last year.

Tickets are available exclusively at SM Tickets via smtickets.com or participating SM Cinema branches starting January 26. Ticket prices of What Time Is It: 2PM Live Tour in Manila are: VIP1 (standing) P11,500; VIP2 (standing) P11,500; VIP3 (standing) P9,000; Lower Box A (seated) P7,000; Lower Box B (seated) P6,000; Upper Box (seated) P3,300; and General Admission (seated) P1,000.

2013 2PM LIVE TOUR in Manila “What time is it” is organized by MLive, Hoopla and BigDaddy Entertainment.

For more information and updates on the concert, follow www.facebook.com/hooplaph or call 320-1111.

Our Love Affair With Retro

Look back and get inspired by ‘70s trends!

Press Release:

(Manila, Philippines) Our love and fascination for everything vintage can be thrown back at the 1970s when pop culture was at its peak. If there are three things words that embody the era, it they would be fun, creative, and free. Disco fever doesn’t really die; it just keeps heating up with every revival.

Feminine silhouettes were highlighted in the ‘70s, a time when femininity dramatically evolved. It was a liberating period for women. They were finally able to go out and have full-time jobs and it was the time when they purchased clothes for various occasions, which led to the expansion of the female’s closet for the home and the office, both formal and casual wear. Individuality came into play and women started to feel empowered and free.

Men’s fashion, on the other hand, was bold and daring. They wore wide, colorful ties, flared pants and bright, fitted shirts. Some even grew their facial hair. Thankfully, the trousers started to straighten again, although the flares are revived every few seasons as we look back on the decade with nostalgia.

Some of the trends that we have now are actually a reflection of what was in vogue during the ‘70s, only with modifications and fusions with other eras. Glam rock emerged with the introduction of high-waisted denims and trousers, the arrival of platforms and satin-quilted jackets. The birth of wrap dresses, the maxi dress, mini-skirts and crop tops are all part of the ‘70s look and style and are prevalent in today’s fashion trends. Suddenly, everything old is new again.

In the athletic scene, the sports industry had been a huge business and the demand for innovative and performance-driven footwear became a necessity. Jogging was one of the most popular activities, as well as court sports like basketball, tennis and volleyball. One of the favored styles that made a trend was the herringbone tread in track shoes.

This distinctive herringbone tread became famous for its excellent grip and function for maximum mobility. It was highly prized by rafters, bushwalkers and even contractors. Today, it is considered one of the staple styles in performance footwear, and as well as with a popular lifestyle shoe brand.

This year, Crocs, the global lifestyle footwear brand known for its profound comfort and fun has adapted the herringbone style for its Crocs™ Retro Collection. The shoe brand incorporates the ‘70s track shoe design with its signature comfort; recreating the classic looks of its clogs, slip-ons, and Mary Janes to give a sporty, performance-driven feel which will let you walk in comfort and wear in style.

“Vintage designs have a fascinating pull on people that goes beyond the trend and this is why we took inspiration from the ‘70s track shoe and incorporated it into our collection. It was a decade of fun and carefree spirits, similar to the feeling of wearing a pair of Crocs. It gives an exciting twist to our line and it further boosts our shoes’ functional benefits,” says Franco Limjuco, Vice President, Six Degrees Inc., Crocs’ local distributor.

Crocs looks back but moves you forward with its funky new styles to bring a smile to your face, and ease to your feet. The new collection is set to be in the stores by mid-February in varied designs and Crocs colors.

Whether it be in apparel or footwear lines, we now see why brands take inspiration from the ‘70s. It was a time of vibrancy and freedom, much like how we live our lives today, always in good spirits and with a happy vibe.

Visit www.crocs.com.ph for additional information, or visit Crocs Philippines on Facebook and @crocsph on Twitter.

Jollibee Kids Meal Gets Wacky with Bugs Bunny and Gang with The Looney Tunes Show Fun Kit

Jollibee presents the Kids Meal toys for February and March!

Press Release:

Jollibee Kids Meal welcomes the return of one of the all-time favorite cartoon gangs with The Looney Tunes Show Fun Kit. As Bugs, Daffy, Tweety, Sylvester, Lola Bunny, and the rest of the Looney Tunes resume their wacky adventures, Jollibee Kids Meal lets their young fans take home the fun with cool and exciting Looney Tunes collectibles, starting February 16.

Boys and girls can express their artistic side and create their own arts and crafts with the quirky Daffy Wacky Cutter, which lets out a quack with every snip. 

Kids can see the Looney Tunes pals come to life in the 3D Animation Notebook, where they can draw and watch their doodles pop out of the page with the help of the 3D glasses. 

Kids will also enjoy watching their favorite characters in animation by flipping the pages. Writing is also now made more fun for every youngster with the Tweety Push-a-Pen, which shows and hides Tweety with every press.  

One Looney Tunes Show Fun Kit collectible comes with every Jollibee Kids Meal. Choose from the Yumburger Meal (P80), Spaghetti Meal (P82), and one-piece Chickenjoy Meal (P99).

Hurry and complete your set of The Looney Tunes Show Fun Kit. Promo runs from February 16 to March 31, 2013.

J.CO Opens its First 24/7 and Largest Store in Eastwood City

Ooooh! Good news to those who live and work in/near Eastwood!

Press Release:

Now there’s another good reason to hangout in Eastwood City as J.CO Donuts and Coffee opens its latest branch in this bustling part of the Metro.

J.CO Eastwood City is poised to follow the huge success of other J.CO outlets. What’s even more exciting is that the latest addition to the fast-growing J.CO chain will soon be open 24/7 to cater to those craving for delectable donuts paired with freshly brewed Italian coffee and healthy J.COOL frozen yogurt treats anytime.

The Cappuccino Familia

Gracing the special media event was no less than Johnny Andrean, founder of J.CO Donuts and Coffee, who flew in from Jakarta to witness firsthand the growing appreciation J.CO has been getting from countless Filipino donut lovers. In addition, he was also very glad to be part of the festivities to celebrate the 7th and largest J.CO branch in the Philippines.

The brains behind the success of J.CO Donuts: Mr. Carlos Chan,
Mr. Johnny Andrean, Mr. Edgar Sia, and Mr. Oszen Chan

Also on hand to welcome the guests were Mr. Oszen Chan - President, CFI; Mr. Carlos Chan - Chairman, CFI; Mr. Edgar Sia - Vice Chairman, CFI; Mr. Kevin Tan - First Vice President and Division Head, Megaworld Commercial Division, Megaworld;. Trina Lim, VP for Operations – J.CO CFI Philippines, Alvene Ngo and Lesley Chan, Marketing Assistants – J.CO CFI Philippines.

Lesley Chan, Trina Lim, and Alvene Ngo

To make the store opening more eventful, J.CO treated the guests from the media to a hands-on way of making J.CO’s bestselling donuts - Green Tease, Oreology and Al Capone.  In a friendly competition, each guest was tasked to pick a donut of his or her choice then pair it with a beverage to come up with the best “Pair Me Up” donut and coffee combination.

The famous (and my favorite) Al Capone donut!

J.CO’s tremendous success traces its roots in Jakarta, Indonesia where Andrean opened a cozy donut shop in 2005. The enterprising gentleman took inspiration from the popularity of donuts and coffee in the US and decided to bring the concept to Asia.

Guests were also taught to make signature
J.CO beverages

To make it more appealing to the Asian market, J.CO only serves freshly made delectable donuts and an array of stimulating coffee prepared by trained baristas. Add to these exclusive offerings is the relaxing ambience J.CO affords its customers, making it an ideal hangout place for small meetings and intimate get-togethers.

Gino Quillamor, host of the Eastwood branch
opening last January 31

J.CO’s unique offerings quickly made it a hit across Asia. The signature J.CO goodness is currently enjoyed in key cities in Malaysia, Singapore and China. Here in the Philippines, J.CO donuts can be savored in SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia, Greenbelt 2, Alabang Town Center, SM Fairview and Trinoma mall.

With the opening of its newest store that is ready to serve donut lovers round the clock, J.CO is indeed set to redefine the Philippine café scene.

Sexy Boys Go Bare For HIV Awareness

Better to be safe than sorry. Have yourself tested if you think you are at risk of getting HIV!

Press Release:

Hip Advocacy

Love Yourself, the country's fastest-growing HIV advocacy group with more than 200 trained volunteers, has launched its 2013 visual campaign dubbed ‘Project Indulge’ in collaboration with advertising agency Campaigns and Grey, and photographer Jeanne Young.

‘Project Indulge’ – a first-of-its-kind campaign, features provocative yet tasteful imagery coupled with insightful, witty ‘matter-of-fact’ copy that departs from the usual fear tactics of HIV awareness campaigns. It suggests that people include regular HIV testing as part of their personal grooming routine to stay healthy and sexy.

“We have to break away from ‘fear’ since it prevents sexually-active individuals to go for HIV testing which is why we help avoid the stigma behind it through awareness, education and counseling. And based on the results, we believe it is working,” says Chris Lagman, Director for Counseling and Education for Love Yourself. “Love Yourself has reach 2.5 million online -- 2,253 of which were tested. Assistance for treatment were given to the 404 who tested positive.”

Chief Creative Officer of Campaigns and Grey, Ompong Remigio explains their participation, "We wanted to contribute to HIV awareness and encourage HIV testing and we found out that Love Yourself has a good understanding of the target audience. We believe that with this collaboration, we are doing our part in addressing the situation.”

Hot Boys

Kit Guerra, Carlito Rosadino Jr and Jeremy Favia. So, what do these boys have in common? Their individual and unique sexiness and their willingness to take their shirts off to help the cause of Love Yourself.

Kit Guerra has been with the local rugby team, the Volcanoes, as a flanker for around 6 years now. He has modelled for Bench underwear in the controversial calendar and billboard shoot that featured the rugby team’s players. A graduate of Boston University with a major in Advertising, he has started working for Campaigns and Grey. CrossFit training is part of his routine almost twice a day to keep fit and prepare to compete in the 2013 CrossFit Games in June 2013. No, unfortunately he is straight and attached, with a 4-year long girlfriend based in Seattle. He has made it a habit to go for HIV screening regularly. This is his first chance to help out with the advocacy. “There is no need to be scared [about getting tested for HIV]. You get support every step of the way,” he says.

Carlito Rosadino Jr. is the current Mr. Gay World Philippines title holder, and has been an avid supporter of The Love Yourself, joining the advocacy in several events including last year’s Pride March in Makati. He is a trained contemporary, lyrical, folk and jazz dancer from the University of the Philippines where he was part of the UP Filipiniana Dance Troupe, and after graduation, he has performed professionally for a number of local shows. He is currently in Dubai to pursue new opportunities. But before leaving, he obliged to help The Love Yourself Project this time by being part of this campaign.

Jeremy Favia is best known as a celebrity chef on TV5, with his shows “Chef vs. Mom” (awarded Best Lifestyle Programme category in the Asian TV Awards) and “Take-Out.” He claims to be a shy person in reality, but somehow landed a career in TV when he was urged by friends to audition for “Ka-Toque” at QTV 11. With “Take-Out” he gets to go around trying out unusual local fare, then prepares his own recipe take from his gastronomic experiences. Currently single, he says if he were to find someone special, “dapat mabait sya, maasikaso. Yung physical, bonus na lang yun. Age doesn’t matter. Number lang ‘yon.” He has friends who have admitted they were HIV positive, and he himself gets tested regularly. Chef Jeremy has this message for sexually-active people, “If you love yourself, get tested regularly.”

Sexy Services

Love Yourself is also beefing up its efforts to roll out their new services, like the "ultra-discreet" and "ultra-premium" HIV testing service in Makati Central Business District called, "Love Yourself Platinum" (go.loveyourself.ph/platinum). The advocacy is also expanding soon in other key cities which includes Pasay, Cebu and in Angeles, Pampanga.

You can also visit the LoveYourself Hub (facebook.com/LoveYourselfHub), a Malate-based clinic open for testing from Thursdays to Mondays all year round.

Upcoming schedules will include FREE HIV Testing events in Cebu on February 23 and in Manila on March 10. Interested individuals may visit go.LoveYourself.ph/Cebu and go.LoveYourself.ph/Manila for details.

Extra Special Barkada Bonding Time With The New Jollibee Flip Floats

How I'd love a Jollibee Coffee Flip Float right now! :p

Press Release:

From driving on an exciting roadtrip or simply hanging out at the mall, to enjoying an invigorating sport together, the list of fun things to do with friends goes infinite. Jollibee makes these barkada bonding times extra special with the new and refreshing Flip Floats, the latest cool drink that turns ordinary bonding moments with friends extra special.

Jollibee Flip Float turns your regular float drink upside down, with the soft vanilla sundae immersed under a refreshing iced cold beverage that is topped with delectable chocolate syrup and crushed cookies. Friends looking for a cold beverage that complements their hip and exhilarating activities can choose between the Chocolate Flip Float and Coffee Flip Float. 

Whether cooling down after a tiring ball game or freshening up after a day at the mall bonding with girlfriends, barkadas can indulge in their favorite Flip Float flavors any time of the day because they are perfectly priced at only P50. You can also upgrade your regular Jollibee Value Meal drink to a Flip Float just by adding P30.

Make hanging out with friends extra special each time with the new Jollibee Flip Floats. The Jollibee Flip Float is available in all Jollibee stores nationwide.

THE WALKING DEAD Resumes Explosive Third Season on Fox This Feb 16

I'm sure a lot of people are waiting for this!

Press Release:

Leaving loads of nail-biting cliffhangers for loyal viewers as it went on its mid-season hiatus, “The Walking Dead” Season 3 returns to Fox Philippines on Feb 16 at 8:55 PM. Fans of the hit TV series about a hardy group of survivors of the zombie apocalypse are expecting an all-out war to explode on their screens at the premiere and will tune in to see what happens when different aspects of human nature clash in a world with little hope left in it.

“The Walking Dead” chronicles the lives of a motley band of stragglers who somehow survived the onslaught of a zombie apocalypse and were brought together by desperation and the will to live in a new, terrible world. The group is led by Officer Rick Grimes, played by Andrew Lincoln, who fully embraces his role as chief after the events of the previous seasons, having been forced time and again to question the motives of his people and discern what decisions to make in order for them to survive. At the onset of Season 3, the group, composed of his wife Lori, his son Carl, Herschel and his daughters Maggie and Beth, and original members Daryl, Glenn, Carol and T-Dog, desperately looks to Rick to determine their next move, and he lays down the law by declaring that their priority is to find a semi-permanent shelter where they can recover safely. Meanwhile, Andrea is found and cared for by the rogue self-styled warrior Michonne when she is separated from the group as they flee the walker-infested farm.

The first half of Season 3 was relentless in revealing one shocking development after another. In their quest to find a safe haven, Rick and his group encounter numerous dangers as they fight to claim an abandoned prison full of walkers. The story also followed Michonne and Andrea’s adventure in parallel, who stumble upon a thriving community of survivors led by someone who calls himself “The Governor”, played by David Morrissey. Andrea and Michonne find themselves seduced by the order that The Governor has imposed on the community, which offers a life similar to the days before the zombie apocalypse. But soon after their arrival, they encounter the sinister truth behind the community’s success.

Recently, The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences presented An Evening with The Walking Dead, where a panel of cast members, including Andrew Lincoln (Rick), Norman Reedus (Daryl), Laurie Holden (Andrea), Steven Yeun (Glenn), Lauren Cohan (Maggie), Danai Gurira (Michonne) and David Morrissey (The Governor), along with Creator and Executive Producer Robert Kirkman, Executive Producer Gale Anne Hurd, and Co-Executive Producer and Special EFX Makeup Supervisor Greg Nicotero, discussed the first half of Season 3 of The Walking Dead at length in front of an audience. They explored the character’s motivations that led them to certain decisions and actions that helped set up the inevitable battle that will occur in the latter half of Season 3.

"One of the enduring strengths of the show is that it keeps reinventing itself," said Andrew Lincoln. Lauren Cohan added, "The ways we’re pushing boundaries is so interesting and surprising to see on TV." The actors’ portrayals of their characters have also been integral to the show’s appeal to audiences. Gale Ann Hurd said, “The reason people watch the show is the cast...the audience is invested in the characters.”

Catch the much anticipated premiere of the The Walking Dead 3 part 2 on FOX Philippines, February 16 at 8:55 PM!

Korean Superstar PSY Coming To Manila For A One-Night-Only Show, Feb 16

I guess this is one of the most-anticipated concerts this first quarter of the year. Heads up, Gangnam fans!

Press Release:

The much-awaited concert of 2013 is finally coming as Korean pop superstar PSY is set to perform for the Filipino audience. Sharing the stage with the country’s comedy concert queen AiAi delas Alas with special guests: comedy duo Jose and Wally, the show titled PSY Live in Manila! will be on February 16, 2013 8:00 pm at SM Mall of Asia Arena. This show is presented by That's Ntertainment Production, Ovation Productions and Music Management International.

Dubbed as “Tanging Family Valentine Show,” enjoy a post-valentine treat with a worldwide phenomenon GANGNAM STYLE, which has over a quarter of a billion views for his amazing viral music video, choreography which soared to the top of the charts and spawned myriad copycat videos by everyone across the worldwide web.

Undeniably known to billions as stylishly hilarious, ‘Gangnam Style’ was released as the single for PSY’s 6th album entitled “6 Rules” with five other equally great pop songs. After staying away from the Korean rap game for a few years, he took a step back in with “6 Rules” with “Gangnam Style” where PSY went from K-Pop rapper to an international superstar. PSY also receives a certificate from the Guinness Book of Records for the most-liked video on YouTube.

Hailed by many as comedy concert queen of the Philippines today, AiAi also promises her award-winning comedy antics and comic musical performances. Expect a night of production numbers from the veteran comedienne herself as she prowls the stage with her comic fury and undeniable talent.

Another no-brainer comedy duo Jose and Wally, evolved as mainstream comedy acts when they successfully held their first major comedy concert in 2012 impersonating today’s controversial personalities.

Who in the history of music can get the world dancing? Watch the concert and find out. 

Ticket Prices:

VIP C - Php 8,980 (Reserved Seating)

PATRON - Php 4,760 (Reserved Seating)

LOWER BOX A- Php 4,760 (Reserved Seating)

LOWER BOX B- Php 3,700 (Reserved Seating)

UPPER BOX - Php 1,590 (Reserved Seating)

GENERAL ADMISSION - Php 530 (Free Seating)

Tickets are available at SM Tickets outlets. Call 470-2222(For SM Tickets) or visit www.smtickets.com to buy tickets online.

What Would You Do If You Had an Extra 30 minutes?

Hey moms, you may want to read this! 

Press Release:

Decorate the house. Dress up. Cook a delicious dish. Watch Rom Com series. Beautify yourself. Polish your nails. Prepare a gift. Set a candlelit dinner. Mix a drink. Arrange a spa.  These are some of the things that can be done in 30 minutes in celebration of the Love month. As for homemakers, it takes them more than 30 minutes just to do the laundry.

The number one laundry detergent brand in the Philippines has come up with a product to save homemakers from the suds and scrubbing this love month.

Surf Matic, the brand’s newest machine wash variant, is designed to help homemakers accomplish their personal priorities and leave their machines to do the washing. Surf Matic has a powerful formula which is ideal for washing machines. The product contains a special active release agent which provides deep cleaning for the clothing fiber. The detergent’s optimum lather level helps maximize the ability of the washing machine to launder the clothes.  With just one sachet, it already provides the benefit of having clean clothes without the need of scrubbing.

Jessica Inocencio, Surf Matic’s brand manager said, “Surf Matic is the answer to every household’s problem with laundry, thereby saving homemakers the effort and the time, which they can now use for things that matter more.”

“Let Surf Matic give you the time to celebrate the month of love with your special someone and not with your laundry basket” Inocencio added.