National Geographic Channel Examines Lance Armstrong’s Cycling Deceit

Tune in tomorrow night at the Nat Geo Channel for this very interesting story ...

Press Release:

Millions of sports fans around the world were devastated in January 2013 to hear their hero, cyclist Lance Armstrong—once considered a seven-time Tour de France winner—admit that he had taken performance-enhancing drugs during his cycling career. National Geographic Channel attempts to shed light on the dark secrets of Lance Armstrong by recounting the steps that led him to the spotlight on the global cycling stage and the sinister decisions he made that sent his reputation as the world’s greatest cyclist crashing down.

On June 30, 2013, the day that the 2013 Tour de France begins, National Geographic Channel will be featuring the premiere of “CYCLING’S GREATEST FRAUD:  The Rise and Fall of Lance Armstrong” at 9 PM. The special will detail one of the most epic falls from grace in the history of sports, beginning with Armstrong’s rise to fame as a professional cyclist in the 1990s and ending with his tragic admission of complicity in doping schemes during his career—a confession that rocked the world and cemented the death of his career in sports. Using archival footage and cinematic recreations that have become the signature of National Geographic Channel, the show will bring to life Armstrong’s saga for viewers. Interviews with members of Armstrong’s inner circle, including fellow riders like Tyler Hamilton and Armstrong’s personal assistant Emma O’Reilly, will shock audiences with first-hand accounts of the world-renowned cyclist’s enforcement of what the US Anti-Doping Agency called in a 2012 report "the most sophisticated, professionalized and successful doping program that sport has ever seen".

Lance Armstrong is famous for having won the Tour de France seven consecutive times from 1999 to 2005, before he was stripped of his titles by the USADA in 2012. He was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 1996 for which he had to undergo surgery and chemotherapy. In 1997, the same year he was declared cancer-free, he founded the Lance Armstrong Foundation, later renamed the Livestrong Foundation, which provides support for people diagnosed with cancer. His successes in the sport of cycling along with his courage during his struggle with cancer and his humanitarian efforts earned him the admiration of sports fans and millions around the world, who looked up to him as a hero and role model. However, he had been haunted by allegations of doping all throughout his cycling career, with former teammates and other members of his inner circle supporting those claims. In 2012, the USADA stripped Armstrong of all his titles won since August 1998 and banned him for life from competition in all sports, a decision that the World Anti-Doping Agency accepted in October 2012 and Armstrong chose not to contest. In January 2013, he publicly admitted in an interview with television host Oprah Winfrey that he had committed doping offenses during his cycling career.

This year marks the 100th Tour de France, which will run from June 29 to July 21 2013. The race will span 21 stages and will cover a total distance of 3,360km (before ratification). Considered the most prestigious cycling race in the world, the Tour de France is fighting to recover its glory and integrity in the wake of the downfall of its most celebrated champion, Lance Armstrong. Learn his story by catching “CYCLING’S GREATEST FRAUD:  The Rise and Fall of Lance Armstrong” at 9 PM on June 30, only on National Geographic Channel.

Ericsson Completes LTE Deployment For Smart

Here's good news to Smart subscribers courtesy of Ericsson Philippines!

Press Release:

• New LTE sites in North and South Luzon expected to ensure excellent customer experience

• Faster download times, better smartphone performance expected

Ericsson announced last June 21 that it has completed its installation of around 250 LTE sites in North and South Luzon for wireless leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart).  The LTE sites are expected to help SMART ensure customers of an even better mobile experience, especially with regard to download times and smartphone performance.

The completion expands Smart’s LTE coverage, which is the first and widest LTE network in the Philippines. To date, Smart LTE is enjoyed by subscribers in 46 cities and 69 municipalities all over the country.

Elie Hanna, Ericsson Philippines and Pacific Islands President and Country Manager, says: “We can confirm that some of the sites we tested registered downlink speeds of up to 50MBps, in real time and in the live network. We are pleased to contribute to SMART’s ongoing efforts to provide their customers with the best mobile experience possible.”

This was one of the fastest deployments to date for Ericsson in the Southeast Asia region.  Hanna explained that Ericsson “wanted to exceed SMART’s expectations and contribute towards their aim of providing LTE service to their customers.”

LTE, or Long Term Evolution, is the global standard for the fourth generation of mobile networks (4G) supported by all major players in the industry. LTE offers the capacity and the speed to handle a rapid increase in data traffic. According to latest market data traffic report, there will be 5 billion mobile broadband subscriptions in 2017. 60% of the world’s population will have LTE coverage by 2018.

Ericsson has delivered more than 160 LTE/EPC networks worldwide of which more than 90 have gone live commercially. These include networks for all of the top ten operators ranked by number of LTE subscribers worldwide in 2012. In addition, Ericsson placed into the Leaders Quadrant in Magic Quadrant for LTE Network Infrastructure in 2012 by Gartner, Inc., the world’s leading information technology research and advisory company.

Steve Carell Returns As Super Villain Gru In Despicable Me 2

Are you ready for another dose of Steve Carell's funny antics? We are! :)

Press Release:

Steve Carell  returns as Gru for Despicable Me 2,  one of the world’s greatest super-villains who has given up his despicable ways and is now on a quest to become the perfect dad.  While juggling all that, he is recruited by a super-secret crime-fighting organization, which puts him in the unlikely position of having to work with the good guys to help save the world.  Usually fearless, Gru is now coping with the challenges of his girls growing up and wanting desperately to ask a woman out on a date.  Both of which cause him to totally freak out. 

It's no surprise considering the first Despicable Me movie was a $542 million mammoth success - landing it among the top ten most successful animated films of all time. 

What attracted Steve Carell to the role of the curmudgeonly, oddly-accented super-villain with a heart of gold was that Despicable Me offered something for children and adults alike.  He reflects upon why he chose to voice Gru, a character who finds that raising children is not all sunshine and lollipops: “I’m a parent with two little kids, and I identified with the story in the first film because it was honest in its depiction.  Having kids completely changes a person’s life, in all the best ways.”

When the first movie was released to worldwide acclaim, Carell was thrilled that audiences wholly embraced the tale he so loved upon first read.  He enjoyed bringing Gru’s idiosyncrasies to life, noting: “Kids could relate and enjoy the humor; parents related to what kids bring to the equation.  In that sense, it’s universal.  But it was also funny, exciting and silly at times.”

Whereas so many animated films are designed as a delivery mechanism for pratfalls and go for the cheap joke, the first adventure surprised many with its mix of heart and humor.  Notes Carell: “These films are animated but very human.  Despicable Me and Despicable Me 2 are smart, funny and heartfelt without being cloying overly sentimental.  They tug the heart strings just enough without going too far.  The writers did such a great job creating something special and unique.”  

As the characters in this nontraditional family evolved, so did Carell’s perception of them.  E.g., the performer identified with Gru’s struggle to let Margo begin to grow up and go out on a date with Antonio.  He explains: “One of Gru’s daughters starts to enter the dating scene, and that is an enormous transition for him, as it is for most dads.  When they see their daughters maturing and becoming interested in boys, suddenly they’re not the apple of their daughter’s eyes.  There is, I wouldn't even say a ‘jealousy’, but there is a tension that comes about between a father and a potential suitor.”

Meledandri commends that there would be no series without the stellar performance work of Carell.  He gives: “From the early days of the first film, Steve has been a creative partner in the making of Despicable Me.  We were so drawn to him for this role because we wanted an actor who brought empathy in his voice and performance.  Not only was Gru a villain, but he is grouchy and acerbic and edgy.  Yet, we knew that in order for the film to work, that audiences needed to like him.  Steve has helped to forge this and define the character.  There has been tremendous writing in response to many of his instincts about how Gru should evolve and the specific definition of his personality.”

When last we met Gru, the only thing about him that was unchanged was his dark wardrobe.  Gru was not only adjusting to life post super-villainy, he was balancing his time as new father to three young girls and the last thing he thought he’d have time for is a burgeoning romance.  But that’s exactly what he finds when he meets Special Agent Lucy Wilde, the AVL’s most energetic agent.  While they’re both focused upon solving a case and finding a super-villain who could put the entire world in peril, they find an unexpected, but not altogether unwelcome, romance.

“Despicable Me 2” is released and distributed by Universal Pictures and United International Pictures through Solar Entertainment Corp. It starts showing in the Philippines on July 3, nationwide!

Sandra Bullock Improvs In “The Heat”

This movie has a good team up of two funny female stars. Definitely a must watch!

Press Release:

Academy Award winner Sandra Bullock stars in “The Heat” and tries on improv comedy for the first time under director Paul Feig.   

Bullock stars as Sarah Ashburn, an FBI agent hoping for a promotion and high-tails it from her home base in New York City to Boston, to help solve the mystery behind several murders.  Standing in Ashburn’s way is a hard-hitting Boston police officer, Shannon Mullins played by Melissa McCarthy, who’s not happy that the FBI – especially the stuck-up Ashburn -- is treading on her turf.  Ashburn is determined to wrestle the case away from Mullins, but the disheveled, foul-mouthed, in-your-face cop is a formidable adversary.  They’ll soon discover they have more in common than they ever thought possible, including their misfit status and complementary skillsets.  

“Ashburn’s effectiveness as an FBI agent comes from her meticulousness, stubbornness and thoroughness,” says Bullock.  “But she’s completely inept when it comes to any kind of social interaction.  She’s trying so hard to make up for that particular weakness that she becomes insufferably arrogant on the job.  Ashburn is respected but not liked because she isn’t a team player.  Every time she opens her mouth, people cringe.”

The improvisational nature fueled the fun and on- and off-screen bonding. “It is great working with Melissa,” enthuses Bullock. “She comes through the door and improv is the way that she does things. Then we had a director who comes from that world too and nearly everyone in the cast was also from that world. The world of comedy that I had been familiar with was always very controlled. There was the script and you had to go through 27 people and the studio before you could change a line.  I always wanted to do this kind of comedy that we have in THE HEAT (which I have done in real life, sort of free form,) but I was never really allowed to experience what it was like before on a film."  

"Walking onto the set of THE HEAT it took me a couple of days to realize: ‘I’m allowed to do it.’ It was very liberating. When you are around that, you take it in and you want to improve your game. It is a muscle that you have to exercise and if you haven’t had much time exercising that muscle, it gets stale. Watching these people work is exciting and inspiring, but daunting sometimes too.”

“Melissa has great moves,” says Bullock,”discussing McCarthy’s comedic skills. “When I saw her dance, I knew we were going to be fast friends.We did the dancing with no practice whatsoever,” she continues.

“We said: ‘let’s not rehearse anything,’ ”interjects her co-star. “Let’s just be as terrible as we’re capable of being. Poor Paul turns around and we both have our faces taped,” laughs McCarthy, “and he’s like, ‘What’s happening?’ It was a weird descent into controlled madness. It was really fun. There was a lot of ruined tape,” she says. McCarthy adds: “Yeah, I got the moves, but I don’t have the sense to stop whatever’s going on.”

“We really hit it off, she is like my sister,’’ adds Bullock. “I’d say it’s rare that actors get together and have the kind of chemistry and connection we have together. It somehow just works and it’s something inexplicable that is bigger than what is on the page.”

“The Heat” opens June 27 in theaters from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.

Cyber Espionage, Android Malware Dominate in Q1 2013

It's always better to be forewarned just in case ...

Press Release:

Kaspersky Lab, a leading secure content and threat management solutions, said that an increased number of alleged state-sponsored cyber-attacks were recorded by the Kaspersky Security Network (KSN). KSN is a distributed system that collects data about existing threats in real time. It also effectively identifies unknown threats and their sources and reacts quickly to protect users against them.

According to Kaspersky Lab’s latest report called IT Threat Evolution: Q1 2013, the first three months of the year turned out to be full of incidents, especially when it came to cyber espionage and cyber weapons. Among the most persistent cyber espionage network was the global operation known as Red October, which targeted various government offices, diplomatic offices and companies worldwide.

Kaspersky Lab reported that Red October has been active for at least five years and have expanded their network of infected systems over 60 domain names spread across several host servers across the world. Red October’s techniques have also expanded to infecting and stealing through USB devices and smartphones. Another group, APT1 (Advanced Persistent Threat), allegedly composed of Chinese hackers, has also become a major threat.

Kaspersky Lab cited a report from cyber-security company Mandiant that emphasized APT1 has been operating since 2006 and has since managed to steal huge amounts of data from around 141 organizations. Kaspersky Lab also noted that these massive attacks could not be possible without real support from hundreds of people and a developed, modern infrastructure.

Denis Maslennikov, Kaspersky Lab Security Expert and author of the report, said that, China has faced accusations of its involvement in cyber attacks against government agencies and organizations in countries around the world. "There is nothing particularly surprising about the Chinese government’s firm rejection of the assertions made in the Mandiant report," Maslennikov added.

Another group called TeamSpy has been seen to target high-ranking politicians and human rights advocates in Eastern Europe and Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). While not as sophisticated as other cyber attackers, many of the attacks from TeamSpy were mostly successful. It also reported that there were cyber attacks against Tibetan and Uyghur activists. The perpetrators used Mac OS, Windows, and Android as platforms for these targeted attacks.

Mobile threats

Kaspersky Lab reported that mobile threats have also been increasing with Android as a leading target platform. Over the last three months, Kaspersky Lab has found 20,000 new modifications of popular mobile malware. This is nearly half of what KSN found in the whole of 2012.

Kaspersky Lab added that 99.9 percent of all new mobile threat detections targeted the Android operating system.  SMS Trojans are still the most prevalent category of mobile threats accounting for 63.6 percent of all attacks. Among the most dangerous programs for Android are FakeInst, Plangton, Opfake, Agent, AveaSMS, Walien, Trackplus, Copycat, Fav, Penetho, SMSReg, and FaceNiff.

Kaspersky Lab also found new mobile malware called Perkel, a banking Trojan and MTK Botnet, which has allegedly infected over one million Android devices mostly in China. “The number of apps for Android is constantly on the rise, and it is often a challenge to gain popularity with users — which is why these illegitimate tactics are becoming all the more common,” said Maslennikov.

Statistics on attacks

The report noted that at least 1.3 billion threats were detected and neutralized by Kaspersky Lab. It also indicated that the US (25.1 percent) remained as the most targeted country used to seed malware, followed by Russia (19.2 percent), The Netherlands (14.4 percent), Germany (11.5 percent), Ukraine (3.3 percent), and Great Britain (3.0 percent). Other countries only contributed around 1.8 percent or less.

Countries with the highest risk of infection from malware is topped by Tajikistan followed by Armenia, Russia , Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Moldova, Belarus, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Vietnam, Georgia, Tunisia, Sri Lanka, Greece, Italy, India, Algeria, Lithuania, and Latvia.

Likewise, KSN said that there are countries considered “safe zones” against malware infection. These are Japan, Denmark, Finland, Sweden, the Czech Republic, Switzerland Ireland, The Netherlands, New Zealand, and Norway.

Fight against mobile malware, cyber espionage

Jimmy Fong, Channel Sales Director for Kaspersky Lab Southeast Asia said that while the Philippines seems relatively safe from major mobile malware and cyber espionage, he warned that attacks against government institutions and corporations is possible. He added that recent news reports of massive denial-of-service (DDOS) attacks against a number of government websites could be used as indicators of what could possibly happen.

“These attacks can be dangerous for any institution especially now that the Philippines is linked to other countries via broadband Internet connections. Security even in the virtual world is the responsibility of everyone and putting in place the best security solutions is paramount,” according to Fong.

MCA Music Introduces a One of a Kind Band --- THE 1975!

Here's something new for music fans ...

Press Release:

After forming at school in 2011 the group of 4 young Mancunians began to tirelessly tour the UK under a variety band names until they found not only their name but their sound! 

Partnering up with Mike Crossey (Foals) who has described them as a cross between electro, R&B & 80s pop, in August 2012 under the name of THE 1975 they released 3 EPs (on iTunes ONLY) under Dirty Hit Records;‘Facedown’ instantly made waves on UK radio with the likes of Huw Stephens & a month later with the release of ‘Sex’ they received their first Radio 1 playlist.

FIRST SINGLE: ‘CHOCOLATE’

Taken from their third EP ‘Music For Cars’, ‘Chocolate’ will be the lead track going forward with this campaign & has had fantastic reaction in the UK. The hugely infectious track immediately went to the top of the Hypemachine chart on its launch & a Radio 1 A-list add quickly followed. The track is now trending at #19 (#39) in the UK’s Official Single’s Chart and is up to #5 on Shazam and #13 on the Spotify chart. 

ANNOUNCE DEBUT HEADLINE EUROPEAN TOUR

As the countdown to the release of their eagerly anticipated debut album continues, Manchester art-pop quartet The 1975 have announced details of their debut, 22 date, headline European tour. Kicking off in Madrid in early November the tour will take the band through Spain, France, Holland, Belgium, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Poland and Czech Republic before finishing up in Austria at the end of the month.

2013 has already been huge for the band with sold out tours both in the UK and the US, a support slot across Europe with Two Door Cinema Club, a triumphant week at SXSW and two top 40 hits in the UK’s official single chart for both “Chocolate” and “The City”. The 1975's self-titled debut album is out on September 9th, through Dirty Hit/Polydor. Co produced by Arctic Monkeys collaborator Mike Crossey, the album is set to cement their status as the breakthrough band of the year.

The 1975 will play at the following dates and venues in November:

Thursday 7th - El Sol – Madrid, Spain

Friday 8th - Razzmatazz (club show) - Barcelona, Spain

Sunday 10th - La Maroquinerie – Paris, France

Monday 11th – Melkweg - Amsterdam, Netherlands

Tuesday 12th - Botanique/Orangerie - Brussels, Belgium

Thursday 14th – Luxor – Cologne, Germany

Friday 15th - Zoom  - Frankfurt, Germany

Monday 18th - Bi Nuu - Berlin, Germany

Tuesday 19th - Uebel & Gefährlich – Hamburg, Germany

Thursday 21st - Loppen - Copenhagen, Denmark

Friday 22nd - Debaser Strand (club show) – Stockholm, Sweden

Saturday 23rd - Parkteatret – Oslo, Norway

Tuesday 26th - Hydrozagadka – Warsaw, Poland

Wednesday 27th - The Rock Café – Prague, Czech Republic

Thursday 28th – FLUC – Vienna, Austria

“CHOCOLATE” first single by THE 1975 is now available on iTunes: http://smarturl.it/musicforcars  exclusively under MCA Music in cooperation with SMART, Live More! and LINE - a new communication app which allows you to make FREE voice calls and send FREE messages whenever and wherever you are, 24 hours a day!

The Medical City Launches Online Facility for Patients' Easy Access to Medical Records

Nice initiative TMC! I hope other hospitals follow suit, soon!

Press Release:

Ortigas Avenue, Pasig City, June 19, 2013—The Medical City (TMC) launched today an innovative service that provides its patient-partners with easy and secure access to their medical records via the Internet, free-of-charge.

Dubbed “TMC Partner Link,” the on-line facility allows patients to view their laboratory and radiology diagnostic results, as well as discharge summaries wherever they are. It also features various health trackers that enable patients to monitor their vital signs via a graphic interface. “For now, we have trackers for blood pressure, heart rate, blood sugar and weight,” says Dr. Mike Muin, Health IT Head of The Medical City. “What’s unique about these trackers is that they are integrated with our hospital Electronic Medical Records, and allow doctors to monitor their patients without frequent hospital visits. It fully embraces the concept of patient partnership beyond the walls of the hospital.” TMC Partner Link however does not provide medical advice, so patients should still consult their doctors for proper interpretation of the diagnostics and symptoms. 

In order to protect sensitive medical records and personal information from unauthorized access, the portal uses a strict identification verification and authentication procedure. In addition, all data is stored in the secure clinical data repository of The Medical City.

TMC Partner Link is accessible via The Medical City’s main website (http://www.themedicalcity.com).  Patients admitted starting June 24, 2013 will be offered the facility as part of standard admission procedures. Outpatients of the Ambulatory Service Center may be enrolled similarly. Alternatively, those who have transacted with TMC before this date can visit, call or email TMC’s Customer Service Department to sign up for a Partner Link account.

The launch of the TMC Partner Link coincides with its celebration of “Innovation Week.”  Throughout the week, the “Innovation Fair” at the TMC Lobby will showcase a wide range of technologies, services and products developed by TMC’s various clinical and administrative departments. 

“Harnessing the power of information technology, we are able to establish closer and more meaningful connections with our patient-partners. Moving forward, the service will continue to be enhanced, and we will introduce more and more features responsive to their needs,” says Dr. Alfredo R.A. Bengzon, M.D., M.B.A., President and Chief Executive Officer of The Medical City.

The Medical City is a tertiary care hospital with over forty years of experience in hospital operation and administration. Its world-class health care complex serves some 40,000 in-patients and 400,000 out-patients annually. TMC has a medical staff of over 1,000 physicians who are established experts in their various fields of specialization. This core of professionals is complemented by a 2,200-strong human resource complement, engaged in allied medical, administrative and support services. TMC is accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), the world’s most prestigious accrediting body for international health care organizations.

The Medical City is located along Ortigas Avenue, Pasig City. For more information about The Medical City and its services, call (+632) 988-1000 or (+632) 988-7000, email mail@medicalcity.com.ph, or visit www.themedicalcity.com. 

Absolute Flood of Love Website to Benefit Ita Community

This is a good advocacy. Please help support it.

Press Release:

Absolute Distilled Drinking Water has launched a website, Flood of Love, which aims to provide sustainable water source and water sanitation and hygiene systems to communities in need. Its first beneficiary is Bayan Bayanan ng Ita, a community of approximately 39 families who travel over an hour each day for clean water. Currently, their water sources are limited to two rivers and a shallow well. Absolute is currently in the planning stage with the community in installing a new water system, which will be managed and handled for the long term by the residents themselves.

Absolute is inviting everyone to take part to reach out and help make the world a cleaner, safer place, one step at a time, one community at a time. Simply visit www.floodoflove.org and share how you can make the world a cleaner, safer place. Absolute will match each pledge by donating of a glass of distilled water per pledge to deserving communities. In addition, the website is also accepting volunteers for various implementation programs.

Says Abe Cipriano, AVP, Asia Brewery “Everyone deserves sustainable access to clean and safe drinking water. We put the website up to show our commitment and to encourage everyone to do their part along with Absolute. With the coming rainy season, we are also prepared to help communities that may be affected by floods and other water-related damage. We hope everyone can join us in making the world a cleaner and safer place, one drop at a time.”

For more information, visit www.floodoflove.org, and like Absolute on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AbsoluteDistilledWater

School of Rock Ready to Rock its way to the Philippines

This sounds like a really cool school!

Press Release:

Music schools will never be the same as School of Rock USA brings its first ever franchise to the Philippines. A first in Asia, School of Rock is a non-traditional music school focusing on rock music and having fun.

Located in the heart of the busy Greenhills Shopping Center, School of Rock Philippines is equipped with brand name musical instruments and spacious music rooms for better teaching and appreciation of the music. The School also takes pride with their well-trained faculty members who offer broad knowledge in music and are actual gigging musicians that can share their unique experiences.

“We believe the best way to learn music is to perform music. Students learn from professional musicians that take them from the lesson room to the stage, develop both their confidence and musicianship through weekly private lessons and group rehearsals with the ultimate goal of performing live in front of real crowds in an authentic rock concert setting,” says Nino Caruncho IV, General Manager of School of Rock Philippines.

School of Rock is an ingenious concept that gets kids and adults rocking out to the classics and on stage performing with their peers. Music programs are designed to create a supportive environment where music students of all skill levels are comfortable yet challenged at every turn. In addition to individual private music instruction on guitar, bass, vocals, keyboards and/or drums, students also learn how to jam with their peers in a weekly practice session. The team dynamic creates a supportive and motivating environment where kids feel inspired to excel.

“We believe that School of Rock can unleash the musical potential of kids in an environment where they’re having fun, meeting new friends and learning about teamwork,” adds Parkin Chiu, Director of the School of Rock.

All School of Rock programs are performance-based and emphasize the message that music is not just about playing an instrument; it is about working together, building confidence, and creating leaders. The first stage is “School of Rock 101,” where they teach basic skills through a 45-minute private lesson and a 90-minute group session. Once accomplished, students reach the main program, the heart and soul of School of Rock – the “Performance Program.” This stage consists of a 45-minute private lesson and a final show. The students are cast in songs and rehearse them in a 3-hour rehearsal each week, preparing for the big show. After 12-13 weeks, the students transform into rock stars in a blowout concert in front of a real live audience.

Additionally, School of Rock also offers 5-10 day intensive summer camps, involving rehearsals with a big show at the end. These 5-10 day intensive camps are guaranteed to transform a wannabe into a true rock performer.  School of Rock is also launching soon an adult performance program and a pre-school program called, “Little Wing,” designed to introduce toddlers to the joy of music.

“School of Rock is the only global music school with numerous schools worldwide and that makes School of Rock unique. The School continues to grow in number as we at School of Rock are committed to Inspiring the World to rock on stage and in life. We want kids who love rock music to understand that there are other kids who share the same passion with them. It is our dream to bring these kids together and bond with other kids globally.” Said Paige Peavler, Director of New Schools and International Operations, who visited School of Rock Philippines recently.

School of Rock Philippines is open 12pm-9pm on weekdays and 10am-9pm on weekends.  For more information about the school, please call (0922)834-2455 or email philippines@schoolofrock.ph. Visit them at www.SchoolofRock.ph and like their Facebook page www.facebook.com/SchoolofRockPH.

The Search For The Next Cobra Pinoy Heroes Is On

Know someone deserving of the title? Nominate him/her now!

Press Release:

There is always hope in the face of hindrances, and heroes in the face of hardship. That’s why this 2013, Cobra Energy Drink announces the return of Cobra Pinoy Heroes, where they search for Filipinos who exemplify hero-like qualities through their own little ways. This story-telling project aims to recognize Filipinos from all walks of life that have contributed to nation building, no matter how big or small the deed is.

A bigger and better Pinoy Heroes Awards is what Cobra has prepared this year, with prizes of up to P150,000 for the most inspiring and compelling story. There are four categories, namely, Youth, which is heroism by 18- to 23-year-old Filipinos; Work Force for employed Filipinos who are 18 years and above; Service for men and women in uniform from NGOs or in government service; and lastly, the Modern Day Hero for males and females who have done an act of bravery, courage, and selflessness in an everyday setting beyond what is expected of them. There will be one winner per category, and other special awards will receive P50,000 each.

Cobra Energy Drink launched this project for its second consecutive year because it believes that these small acts of heroism are a good start to building a better and progressive nation. This ideology supports its latest tagline, Lakas ng Pinas, where Cobra acknowledges that every Filipino’s action, whether big or small, plays a role in the betterment of the country,

“We want to give credit and value to whom they are due. Every day, we encounter Filipino heroes who have shown acts of bravery, strength, and selflessness for the other people they serve. This is a venue for the unnamed to be recognized for going above and beyond the call of duty, and for the rest of us to be inspired to be better, to be heroes in our own way,” says Jef Mendoza, Cobra Energy Drink Brand Manager.

Interested storytellers can either share their personal stories, or nominate a story of another qualified individual. Story entries are now accepted until July 21 through the Pinoy Heroes app on Cobra’s Facebook page, or through on-ground activations in Metro Manila, Pampanga, Cavite, Laguna, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Isabela, Dagupan, Bataan, Olongapo, Dumaguete, Naga, Iloilo, Tacloban, Bacolod, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Bukidnon, General Santos, Zamboanga, and Davao. For the complete mechanics and dates of on-ground activations, visit facebook.com/CobraPhilippines.

“Cobra has been the partner in life of many unsung Filipino heroes. We learned that our brand has served as an icon of inspiration to a lot of Filipinos to serve better, harder, everyday. This is why Cobra Pinoy Heroes was launched, for the whole nation to see that every Filipino’s passion and hard work will not go unnoticed,” ends Mendoza.

Lombardi’s Festa del Papa

Give dad an authentic Italian gastronomical experience on his special day!

Press Release:

This Father’s Day, treat your dad like he is the Godfather by bringing him to Lombardi’s, the restaurant that serves honest-to-goodness authentic Italian cuisine.  Not only will he get to enjoy mouthwatering dishes with his family, he also gets freebies and perks on this most important day!

The "Festa del Papa", which will be offered exclusively on June 15 and 16, is Lombardi’s way of presenting its specials -- an extravagant blowout of flavors that only a true Italian chef like Davide Lombardi can whip up.  For only P2,800 fit for four people, get to experience the true Italian cuisine with a lineup you will surely enjoy from start to finish.  Not only that, the first 50 group (minimum of four diners) making early reservations on June 16 will get a complimentary bottle of wine.

For starters, Italian style or Antipasti Freddi, relish the mouthwatering flavor of beef with Carpaccio di Manzo, or Beef Carpaccio marinated with lemon and olive oil and fresh parmesan.

Want to savor how original Italian pizza tastes like?  Get to know that with Pizza Prosciutto E’Funghi, with its generous amounts of tomato sauce and mozzarella, with a dash of delicious prosciutto ham and mushrooms.

Lovers of pasta will fall for the creamy indulgence brought by Lasagne Della Casa, with its home-made goodness and authentic Bolognese sauce which makes you remember the good ol’ days with family.

Dad will celebrate the perks of his fatherhood when he takes a bite at his Spezzatino Al’Italiana, or Beef Stewed in Red Wine served with 3 Starch.  He will love the tenderness of the choicest beef flavored with Italian red wine and other spices.

He will have a La Dolce Vita (The Sweet Life) moment as tops his dinner off with Barca del Papa, which consists of 5 scoops of different Italian gelato flavors. The Festa del Papa special also comes with a liter of Te Freddo (iced tea).

Plus, what is more special is that all dads get a "Bounceback Voucher" for One Complimentary Order of Mozzarella in Carrozza that can be availed from June 17 to 30, only at Lombardi's.

So make your Papa proud and bring him to Lombardi’s, where the experience of Italian cuisine is real and satisfying!  Lombardi’s is located at 2nd floor Al Fresco of Robinsons Place Magnolia and at the 4th level East Wing, Shangri-La Plaza Mall.  You may also visit the Facebook page (www.facebook.com/lombardiauthenticitalian).

Fantastic Feast for Fathers at Cravings

Cravings' specials for Father's Day have freebies that dads will absolutely adore!

Press Release:

This coming Father’s Day, make your daddy proud and completely satisfied!  Cravings, the best place to enjoy your favorite comfort cuisine, offers irresistible specials that both you and Dad will surely enjoy!

Cravings’ The Ultimate Dad’s Day treat is a meat lover’s buffet bonanza with mouthwatering steak, lips-smacking ribs, and tender cracking pork cochinillo especially prepared just for him, aside from all the soup and salad he can take and with his favorite beverage and dessert, all for just P799 per head.  The Ultimate Dad’s Day Buffet, from June 15-16, can be availed at Cravings’ branches in Shangri-La Mall, Eastwood, Katipunan and Molito.

That doesn’t end there, because if you come in a group of six, Daddy’s buffet plate will be on us as a Father’s Day gift!  Dad will surely be delighted since he can eat for free!

Also, dads will get a Bounceback Offer voucher which they can use for free lunch or dinner buffet at Cravings’ branches at Shangri-La Mall, Katipunan or Eastwood Mall, and free breakfast buffet at Cravings Molito or Il Terrazzo branches from June 17-30.

On the other hand, Cravings in Fraser Place Hotel holds a unique Surf n’ Turf Dad’s Day Special from June 14 to 16.  For only P699, all specials plates include Garden Fresh Salad.  Diners can choose any of the two: Amboy or Pinoy.  Amboy includes Pepper Medallion Steak with Tiger Prawns, Mashed Potatoes and Vegetable Mélange, while Pinoy has All Grilled Pork Chops, Mahi Mahi and Vegetables and Salted Egg Java Rice.  Other extras include choice of beer, Chef’s Special Dessert or TCB’s brewed coffee.

Dads also have the chance to win an overnight stay at the Seven Suites Hotel Observatory, located at the verdant and cool hills of Antipolo City and with a great view of the metropolis from the top and the vast sky of stars in the evening.  The Complimentary Overnight Stay at a Deluxe Room includes a breakfast for two at the hotel.

To join, fathers who availed of the "Ultimate Buffet" and the "Dads Eat Free" only need to fill up the customer feedback form with accurate and complete information in order to join the raffle.  A winner will be drawn randomly on June 17 and posted on Cravings Facebook page by noon. One winner each will be drawn from the six Cravings outlets.

To know more details about Cravings’ special menu offerings, please call the following branches: Katipunan Avenue (426-6681 to 88), Eastwood Mall (470-3500), Shangri-La Plaza Mall (635-6087), Molito (556-0927), Fraser Place Makati (815-4269) and Il Terrazzo (441-4013 or 376-0250).  You may also visit their Facebook fan page (http://facebook.com/cravingsphilippines) or follow their announcements on Twitter (@cravingsphils).

Jamie Cullum Returns with New Album MOMENTUM

Press Release:

Jamie Cullum is pleased to announce the full details of his sixth studio album, 'Momentum', via his new record label Island Records. Momentum features the carrier track “EVERYTHING YOU DIDN’T DO”.

The album, titled 'Momentum' for good reason, is bursting with ideas and inspirations which almost have a life of their own. Indeed, Jamie approached this record in a completely different way to his previous LPs. "The album is about that crossover period from youth into adulthood where you still have one foot in each" explains Jamie. "You start to understand the world in such a different way and see things more as they are - both ugly and beautiful. You're caught between those fresh senses of the wider picture whilst still battling those same old issues within your own head. Take Me Out (Of Myself) through to Everything I Didn't Do to Get A Hold of Yourself. Have I done enough? Have I achieved all that I thought I would? What about everything I didn't do?"

The album was produced in part by Jim Abbiss (Artic Monkeys, Adele) and Dan The Automator (Kasabian, DJ Shadow) and it should come as no surprise that, combined with Jamie's talent for writing a tune, the album is brimful of powerful songs; from the opening declaration of intent 'The Same Things' to the beating heart of the album 'Sad, Sad World', which began life on a train journey into London, ending with 'You're Not The Only One', a song written in response to being a judge on Sky One's reality show 'Must Be The Music' alongside Dizzee Rascal.

With over 10 million record sales under his belt Jamie joins an incredible roster from past and present over at Island Records including Mumford & Sons, Bob Marley, Amy Winehouse, Robbie Williams, Florence and the Machine and Jessie J.

“Jamie Cullum is without doubt one of the most talented musicians and enduring artists this country has produced in years.  At our first meeting it quickly became clear how excited and genuinely delighted Jamie was to be signing to Island Records. He also happens to be one of the most genuine and charming people in the business.” (Darcus Beese – Island Records President)

Since the release of his last album, as well as performing to millions of people around the globe on his critically acclaimed sold out tours, Jamie has been working on a variety of unique projects that have seen him collaborate with artists including Stevie Wonder, Rizzle Kicks, ?uestlove and The Roots, write the Golden Globe nominated song ‘Gran Torino’ for the Clint Eastwood film of the same name and perform at events such as the FIFA Ballon d’Or in Zurich in front of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi and for Robert De Niro at his party at the recent Cannes Film Festival.

“MOMENTUM”, the new album from Jamie Cullum is now available on your favorite record bars nationwide and online via iTunes Philippines under MCA Music Inc. in cooperation with SMART, Live More!

Casa Roces' Segundo Aniversario: From Our Hearts to Your Plates

Join the celebration of independence gratitude at Casa Roces this June and July!

Press Release:

Casa Roces, the full service restaurant within a heritage home located in the heart of Manila, celebrates three special occasions with two special menus this June.  Two unique dining experiences will be offered, and will surely be the talk of the town.

To commemorate Casa Roces’ 2nd year in the business, which shares the same birthday as freedom fighter Chino Roces, after whom the ground floor Kape Chino was named after, and in time for Philippine Independence month, Chef Sau del Rosario has prepared a unique and sumptuous all-Filipino menu. The menu is executed by Chef Mira Cruz with CCA Manila students exclusively for Casa Roces.

Segundo Aniversario is Casa Roces’ way of thanking its loyal patrons and faithful diners for making Casa Roces one of the most popular and reputable restaurants in the metropolis today.

Experience a delectable 4-course Filipino menu from June 12 to July 12, priced at P895 (with puto-bumbong shake) and P795 (without the shake), starting with Sinuglaw (sinugba or grilled pork belly with blue marlin kilawin or ceviche with white cheese stuffed courgette blossoms) and Suam na Mais (soup of white summer corn, chard and baby shrimps in Manila ginger clam broth), topped with Inasal na Manok at Pinakbet (grilled Ilonggo-style chicken barbeque in achuete oil, garlic and cane vinegar, served with roasted tomato stuffed local country vegetable mélange, with pickled watermelon on the sides).  Finish off the meal with Turrones de Leche at Tsokolate (burnt sugar flan wrapped in paper crepe then fried to a crisp with a chocolate sauce dip) and the refreshing drink concoction called Puto Bumbong Shake, a unique take on the well-known Christmas kakanin transformed into a cool drink, a purplish creamy smoothie that you might think of having all year long!  

Enjoy your meals while timeless Kundiman classics are being played in the background. In addition, diners who avail of the Segundo Aniversario specials also receive complimentary Pinoy-flavored gourmet chocolates from Theo Philo.

For families who want to celebrate Father’s Day, there is Papi Mio, a special treat for all the hardworking and loving dads, flexibly priced at P2,999 for a group of four or P850 per head.

Papi Mio is a hearty barbecue feast that begins with a serving of Russian Salad and Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Butter then proceeds to the main course, with a side of Spanish Rice with Morcilla de Cebolla & Red Capsicums or savory Penne Pomodoro with Tomatoes, Garlic and Bacon.  Diners can choose from a large selection of dishes for main course: Fish Skewer with Garlic Chili Oil, Lemon Pepper Chicken, Pork Ribs Barbecue or Hungarian Sausage with Sauerkraut.  Delectable desserts include a delicious Bread and Butter Pudding with Chocolate Chunks, and Fresh Fruit Salad with Mint and Honey.  Dad also has the privilege of enjoying a special Buy One, Take One Sub-Zero San Mig Light beer or a 10% discount on any of his favorite wines or liquors.  Dads will also be serenaded with Bossa Nova favorites by Eileen Sison between 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Dads availing of Papi Mio Special on Father’s Day will also be given a special Bounceback Gift Card, which they can enjoy for one Complimentary Sunday Buffet Meal on either June 23 or 30.

Visit Casa Roces now and get to experience Filipino cuisine at its finest through these very tempting toasts to fatherhood, freedom and foundations!  Casa Roces is located at 1153 J. P. Laurel corner Aguado Streets in San Miguel, Manila.  For reservations, call 735-5896 or 488-1929 or 0917-5509743; e-mail reservations@casaroces.com or visit them on their website (www.casaroces.com) or their Facebook page (http://facebook.com/casarocesphils).

SUPERDYNAMISM: A New Visual Language to be Exhibited at Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences

Here's a very interesting exhibit that art enthusiasts would love to see!

Press Release:

A style that incorporates the qualities of action painting and line drawing. Each complements the other to form a flexible visual language that easily transcends boundaries.

At one point highbrow suddenly shifts to lowbrow and effortlessly crosses the line to abstraction. The next moment invades surrealism and blends everything together.

Hallucinographic

“Escapes rational definition; boggles the mind and alienates.” This is Superdynamism in progress.

Superdynamism uses all the elements and energy of various art forms, blending these disciplines seamlessly into a new and energized fluid form.

Superdynamism revolves around the creative power of every particular style, taking bits and pieces to form a Superdynamic aesthetic expression. It’s all about non conformity. It does not depend on a coordinated and predictable system. Old models are discarded and a new order of reality rules.

Superdynamism is a new way of accepting a semblance or illusion of visible reality. It is an art form that resists being a captive of a time period or era.

Superdynamism is characterized by stimulating unpredictability and controlled chaos.

Testing the Wind

Superdynamism is multi-layered in terms of technique and execution. Confronts the spectator on different levels of perception—part-objective and part-non-objective. It’s like looking at an abrupt abstraction but then realizing something real and tangible.

Superdynamism is dark. Superdynamism is light. Superdynamism is emotional, mysterious and whimsical. It can be positive and negative or black and white. It’s contradictory and orderly, chaotic and systematic. It allows conventional perception to fluctuate into inconclusive assumptions. It causes imagination and reason to contradict and collide leaving the mind of the viewer with a lot more to ponder and assume.

Superdynamism is flat and multi-dimensional; possesses energy beyond limits.

Superdynamism transcends many disciplines without changing its methodical technique.

Superdynamism is a new visual language. It is never still, always moving, always evolving.

Sword of Awesomeness

---------

For the past 23 years Enrique Tabuena has been painting consistently and has exhibited in various galleries. He is also played the role as an Art director, Graphic designer & Creative director. He is driven by passion to make emotional, surreal, whimsical and violent imagery.

--------

Superdynamism by Eric Tabuena will be exhibited at the Picasso Boutique Serviced Residences (119 L.P. Leviste St., Salcedo Village, Makati City 1227) from June 18 to  August 2, 2013.

Opening reception with the artist: 18 June 2013, 6-9 PM

Give Tatay a Terrific Treat at C2 Classic Cuisine

The photos are already mouthwatering! How about treating dad at C2 on Father's Day?!

Press Release:

For most part of the year, Tatay may be just someone who gives us our school allowance and the hardworking family breadwinner who will do everything for his family.  But in this special day especially just for him, nothing is more touching than a treat that will be both hearty and heartfelt.

Kare Kareng Baka

C2 Classic Cuisine, the choice restaurant to enjoy Filipino classic dishes with a twist, is throwing a special tribute for Tatay as it prepares a special menu for diners and their “haligi ng tahanan” through "Salu-Salo Para Kay Itay", a set menu special from June 15 to 16 prepared particularly for them. For only P999, it is perfect for a group of 2 to 3 persons and comes with unlimited rounds of pandan rice.

Sumpia

Salu-Salo Set Menu A will have him surely enjoying the delightful taste of timeless fare like Kare Kareng Baka, Crispy Squid and Sumpia.  

Nilasing na Manok

You may also opt for Salu-Salo Set Menu B, with the richly flavored roasted Bulalo Steak, Pinakbet at Bagnet and Sumpia.

Lumpiang Hubad

Take your chance at Salu-Salo Set Menu C, with the flavorful Nilasing na Manok, Walastik and Lumpiang Hubad.

Walastik

Not only that, C2 offers diners with their dads a special Bounceback Offer voucher, a special treat that they can avail from June 17 to 30.  Use this to enjoy 1 complimentary dish from C2's All-Day Merienda special.

Visit C2 Classic Cuisine in any of these branches: Katipunan Avenue, QC (426-6881); 18 Missouri Street in Northeast Greenhills (723-2347); Robinsons Place Malate (567-2402); The Ledge, Shangri-La Plaza Mall (636-1510); and 3rd Floor, Mega Atrium, SM Megamall (470-1152) and Lakefront Wharf, Parañaque (551-0447).  You can also visit their Facebook page (www.facebook.com/c2. philippines) or follow them on Twitter (@c2cuisine).

Discover the World of High Definition Cable TV and High-Speed Internet at SKY Zone

Experience the future of home entertainment. Visit SKY Zone at the venues mentioned below!

Press Release:

The future of home entertainment is now within your reach. Bring your family to a whole new dimension where everything is faster and in high definition as SKY Zone, in partnership with Fox International, once again showcases SKYcable’s premium HD channels and widest selection of services along with the high-speed broadband internet of SKYbroadband as they simultaneously visit SM City Cebu and SM City Davao on June 14 to 16 and Eastwood Mall in Quezon City from June 21 to 23.

Following their introduction of High Definition cable TV in the country, SKYcable is unveilling the life-like and breathtaking difference of HD cable viewing to mall goers with their various displays at the exhibit. Be in the thick of all the action and feel the thrill from your favorite Hollywood films, TV series, documentaries, down to your much-awaited sporting matches on FOX Movies Premium HD, Fox HD, STAR World HD, Nat Geo HD, and Fox Sports Plus.

Get up-close and personal with your favorite stars with more detail and more action through SKYcable HD's panoramic wide screen and cinematic sound quality. Discover SKYcable HD’s 30 HD channels – the most in the market today, and see them through their innovative Dual Def Plans that let you enjoy both HD and SD channels for P499 per month with 50 SD and 6 HD channels, P999 per month with 68 SD and 13 HD channels, and P1,799 per month for 30 HD and 20 free-to-air SD channels.

Along with the HD showcase, SKY Zone will also reveal Destiny Cable’s new digital cable service that lets your family enjoy 88 exciting channels in clear digital signal.

As you discover the future of digital cable TV, SKY Zone is also giving you a taste of life in the fast lane as they bring SKYbroadband’s high-speed internet connection.

Experience the fastest wired internet service in the country as SKYbroadband showcases their 200Mbps internet connection in Metro Manila. Surf at the speed of light and waste no time with SKYbroadband’s Ultra High-Speed Broadband when you and your loved ones surf, download, play online, and video stream, all at the same time.

Aside from the country’s fastest internet connection, SKYbroadband is also bringing the fastest internet connection at the P1,499 price point to Metro Manila, Cebu and Davao mall goers with their 10Mbps consumable Advantage plan. This is the first and only package in the Philippines that provides you 10x faster Internet at 15Gb, that automatically becomes unlimited at 1.5Mbps after the consumable plan is used up. Get unlimited access to social networking sites while you download movies and video stream or even video chat with friends at high-speed. Experience everything that the internet has to offer when you surf the internet 10x faster at SKY Zone.

On top of SKYbroadband’s high-speed connection, subscribers can also catch up on their favorite ABS-CBN shows and the latest news via video on demand, with their unlimited access to iWanTV.

Witness the future of home entertainment. Drop by SKY Zone to experience these innovative plans and services from SKY, and learn how you can enjoy these services at home.

To know more about SKYZone, log on to www.mysky.com.ph or call SKYcable’s customer service hotlines at 02-381-0000 for Metro Manila, 345-2278 for Cebu, and 305-5456 for Davao.

Have Priceless Coffee Talk with Dad at TCB

Make Father's Day memorable for your dad with this cake that's made especially for him!

Press Release:

There are times when a talk with Dad (or Papa or Tatay) would be elusive or hard to get by; either he’s busy with work or you’re busy with school.  But coffee and cake can be the best starters for a great conversation with someone who has made a strong influence with your life.

This June, celebrate Father’s Day with him at TCB, where we prepared a special treat for him in this most important of days.  Since we are more than just unlimited coffee, he will definitely enjoy our cake made especially for men like him.  Enjoy Endless Coffee with Dad, a special treat for Dads and their loved ones with any purchase from TCB on June 15 and 16!  This limited offer will be available at the following TCB branches: TCB Cravings Center in Katipunan Avenue; 5th Level, Shangri-La Mall; Cafe Dominic, Quezon Avenue; SM Masinag, SM Marikina and Eastwood.

Also, try our new Father’s Day treat called Decadent Espresso Truffle Mousse Cake, a truly rich and elegant confection that goes best with unlimited cups of coffee and precious bonding time with him.  It is not only as decadent as its name suggests - using the best chocolates from around the country and the world, we created a three-layer cake with chocolate truffle in the middle.   Dad will absolutely adore as he takes a bite on its moist cake topped with luscious choco icing and with a side of little chocolate kisses.  Hurry now and grab the chance this choice confection as it will be available only from June 10 to 23 (Regular size is priced at P900 while a junior version costs only P180)!

Aside from these specials, we will give diners and their dads a Bounceback Offer voucher of Unlimited Coffee and Cakes, which you or he can avail from June 17 to 30.

Visit any of the TCB branches treat and like us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/tcbunlimited).