Nickelodeon Paints The Town Dread With Takotown This Halloween

Looking for somewhere to bring your kids this Halloween? Here's one cool destination!

Press Release:

A hefty bag of tricks and treats awaits Halloween-ready kids and tweens around the metro as Nickelodeon puts an all-original Piney spin to one of the year’s most awaited celebrations. Happening on October 31 at Halls 1 and 2 of the SMX Convention Center, the annual themed event is centered on TakoTown, a haunted neighborhood filled with supernatural beings immortalized in local folklore.

At TakoTown, kids and tweens alike will find themselves fighting off a new league of monsters as zombies, ghosts, and ghouls crawl back into the darkness, giving the spooky spotlight to paranormal entities like the white lady, tiyanak, manananggal, kapre and the like.

For six straight hours starting at 3PM, those daring enough to go on a complete tour of TakoTown can expect wicked awesome activities and games, along with strange sightings and even stranger happenings.

There’s even more to scream and shout about as TakoTown also brings them thrilling giveaways, raffle prizes, performances and of course, meet-and-greet sessions with their favorite Nick characters.

Partygoers dressed in bloody brilliant guises will also be scouted and recognized in the Toy Kingdom Halo-Halo-ween Costume Contest for having the Most Creative, Scariest or Cutest ensembles.

Want to be a certified TakoTownie?  Take part in the hair-raising Halloween screamfest and get two tickets with a minimum single receipt purchase of P1000 (inclusive of a Halloween item) at all participating Toy Kingdom and Toy Kingdom Express branches from October 1 to 29 and on October 31 at the SM Mall of Asia branch.

Save the date and start the countdown to Nickelodeon’s TakoTown!

Nickelodeon’s TakoTown is presented by Toy Kingdom and co-sponsored by Ace Water Spa, Appebon Kid, Kinder Joy, Lipps Popstix, Lotte Koalas March, McDonalds, Monster High, Skechers Kids, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and Jack N’ Jill Wiggles.  Official venue by SMX Convention Center.

Fly and Cruise in Luxury with Singapore Airlines, American Express, and Crystal Cruises!

Dreaming of going on a luxury cruise? Grab this chance of fulfilling your dream by paying only 50% on published rates!

Press Release:

In a first of its kind partnership, Singapore Airlines, American Express and Crystal Cruises are offering the best luxury packages coined as “Fly & Cruise in Luxury”. American Express Cardmembers can enjoy as much as 50% savings on both  air and cruise components, which include roundtrip all-inclusive airfare on  Singapore Airlines Suites, First or Business class and all-inclusive cruise experience on board the 6-Star, all-suites Crystal Cruises to over 20 voyages covering South America, South Africa, Europe, Southwest Pacific, Asia and more.  

The Fly & Cruise in Luxury promotion fares start from USD 5,726 for a 12-day cruise from Bali to Singapore.  American Express Cardmembers can also avail of additional savings of as much as USD 1,500 per person for bookings made until October 30, 2013.  This promotion runs until May 2014.  For more details, visit www.singaporeair.com, www.americanexpress.com.ph, or call Adventure International Tours, Inc. (doing business as American Express Transnational) at 884-9403 / 884-9427 or 38.

BDO is the exclusive issuer of American Express® Cards in the Philippines.

Photo shows (from left) Rita Dy, Manager Marketing & Communications and Ranjan Jha, General Manager of Singapore Airlines; Corinne Astillero, BDO First Vice President and Consumer Lending Group Cards Marketing Head, Consumer Lending Group; and Lara Santos, General Manager of American Express Transnational.

Manila Water Foundation Upholds Importance Of Proper Handwashing

Press Release:

Manila Water Foundation, the additional corporate social responsibility arm of East Zone concessionaire Manila Water Company for areas outside Metro Manila, visited different parts of the archipelago spreading the value of handwashing as part of proper hygiene and healthcare. The Foundation joined over 100 countries, involving more than 200 million people across five continents in celebrating the 2013 Global Handwashing Day.

Carla Beriña-Kim, Executive Director of Manila Water Foundation, imparts that handwashing serves as an easy and cost-effective measure in preventing different infections and diseases. “This simple task can lower the number of people affected by fast-spreading illnesses that take a toll not only on one’s health, but also on the family’s budget. When done properly, regularly and collectively, handwashing can create healthier communities”, says Beriña-Kim.

On its first year to lead a series of events for the Global Handwashing Day in the Philippines, Manila Water Foundation staged a week-long celebration that saw more than 7,000 people participating in its activities. Students, teachers, and school personnel from different schools in Metro Manila, Pampanga, Laguna, and Boracay Island were visited by the Foundation, informing them on the proper way of washing one’s hands and how responsibly transforming this into a habit may reduce vulnerability to different health risks and infections.  Partakers were encouraged to stamp their handprints on the pledge wall to signify their commitment to practice proper handwashing and to encourage their family and friends to do the same. In a move to further its advocacy, Manila Water Foundation extended its efforts by setting up booths that deliver information on the benefits of handwashing in Trinoma Mall in Quezon City, Pavillion Mall in Biñan, Laguna, Nuvali in Sta. Rosa, Laguna and Marquee Mall in Angeles, Pampanga. Participants showed their support to the cause by contributing in the pledge sticker wall. As its culminating event, the Foundation conducted an information and education drive at the Boracay Beach Front Station One and enjoined tourists and locals alike to practice proper handwashing.

The successful celebration was co-presented by Manila Water, Laguna Water, Clark Water, Boracay Water, and supported by the Department of Education, Globe Telecom, Ayala Malls, Unilever (Vaseline as official soap sponsor), Universal Robina Corporation (Granny Goose Tortillos, Mang Juan, Hunt’s and Refresh), Unilab (RiteMed and Ceelin Plus) and Enchanted Kingdom, as well as media partners, The Philippine Star, Business World, Health Today and Working Mom.

October Promotions at Solaire Resort & Casino

Press Release:

KPOP Promo Rates

Calling all K-Pop fans out there! Stay at Solaire Resort & Casino and avail of the following special promo rates!

Deluxe Bay Php 7,500++
Grand Deluxe City/Garden Php 9,500++
Grand Deluxe Bay Php 10,500++

*Inclusive of breakfast buffet for 2 at Fresh

Terms and conditions:

1. Booking period is from October 22-24, 2013. Stay period is from October 23-25, 2013.
2. To avail of this offer, the hotel booking code must be quoted – HSUJU.
3. Prior reservation is required.
4. The offer is subject to availability.
5. Rates are non-cancellable and non-refundable.
6. Full prepayment required at the time of booking for the entire stay.

Book your stay through hotline 888-8888 or website www.solaireresort.com/reservations.

See Rob Schneider Live!

Solaire Resort & Casino presents ROB SCHNEIDER LIVE IN MANILA!

Watch the star of Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo, The Grown Ups, The Animal, and many other noteworthy comedy films in his first STAND UP COMEDY SHOW IN THE PHILIPPINES!

Catch him for ONE NIGHT ONLY on October 28, Monday, 8 PM, at the Solaire Grand Ballroom, Solaire Resort & Casino.

For tickets log on to Ticketworld.com.ph or call 891-9999

No Tricks Just Healthy Halloween Treats from Dole

Moms and Dads! Check out these great healthy food ideas for Halloween!

Press Release:

Halloween is just around the corner and once again we see kids dressed up as their favourite scary characters or pop culture idols. With all the costumes, parties, and food, Halloween is definitely one of the most enjoyable holidays.

For parents and fitness buffs, however, Halloween is surely a scary time with all the junk food, chocolates, and candies. For those thinking it’s impossible to celebrate a healthy Halloween without sacrificing fun and colour, Dole provides a refreshing option.

In exchange of candies and sweets, go for the  road less travelled and give out fruit bowls to the little trick-or-treaters roaming around the village. The parents of these little ghouls, witches, and pumpkins can be rest assured knowing that their kids aren’t eating junk. There are certainly no tricks here as Dole fruit bowls are a good source of Vitamin C. These healthy snacks are perfect for growing kids (and kids at heart) as all variants are made with real fruit.

Another fun idea for a healthy Halloween celebration is incorporating fruits and juices to the usual party snacks and drinks. This does not only add nutrition points, it also adds an unexpected zing to the buffet table. Make celebrations fun by decorating these munchies with other colourful fruits from Dole Tropical Fruit Cocktails to Pineapple Slices and Tidbits.

Stay up-to-date with Dole Philippines by liking Dole PH on Facebook and following @ThisIsMyDole on Twitter and Instagram.

TV5 Goes Every Day All the Way

Looking for new TV shows to watch? Here are some from TV5!

Press Release:

TV viewing has definitely become more exciting, rewarding and worthwhile for Filipinos across the country and all around the world as TV5 continues to provide quality shows that strengthen the network’s programming not only for the weekends but all the way through the rest of the week as well.

Following TV5’s successful launch of its new line-up of weekend programs via the “Weekend Do It Better” campaign, the network has registered a notable increase in viewership ratings. Based on NUTAM data from Nielsen Media Research, TV5 garnered a 34% increase in Total Households shares last October 13 for the 7:00-8:00pm timeslot occupied by Vic Sotto’s Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? The show registered 13.5% Total Household shares on October 13 compared to its season opener’s 10.1% shares last September 15. In Luzon, which comprises 70% of the population of national urban TV households, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? posted 14.3% Total Households shares (October 13) which is a notable increase from its 10.6% shares on September 15.

Likewise, Joey De Leon’s Wow Mali Pa Rin on the 8:00-9:00pm Sunday timeslot has been showing a steady viewership increase. It reached 14.2% Total Household shares (NUTAM) on October 13 from its pilot airing’s 11.4% shares last September 15. This increase is also reflected in the show’s Luzon ratings with 11.3% shares (October 13) from 11.3% (September 15).

The other “Weekend Do It Better” shows are also not far behind in attracting more viewers for the network. Showbiz Police, Tropa Mo Ko UNLI, Killer Karaoke, What’s Up Doods?, Pinoy Explorer, and The Mega and The Songwriter have all succeeded in communicating TV5’s strong commitment to make weekend TV viewing a more entertaining and rewarding experience.

TV5 only gets better as it focuses on its goal to cater to the Filipino’s varying taste for TV entertainment. In fact, the Kapatid Network has announced that it is going “Everyday All the Way” with its programming boost. Starting October 14, TV5 changed the television landscape with new programs that are bound to change the public’s TV viewing habit from Monday to Friday.

Megastar Sharon Cuneta appears in her first-ever dramedy barangay-serye in Madam Chairman, which airs weeknights at 7:00pm. Another first is Aga Muhlach foray in game show hosting via the interactive Let’s Ask Pilipinas, airing Monday to Friday at 8:00pm.

TV5 makes a brave move to own Thursday nights by introducing the never-before-done airing of back-to-back two one-hour drama series. Premiering on October 17 at 8:30pm, For Love or Money brings together heartthrob Derek Ramsay, TV5 drama princess Ritz Azul and timeless beauty Alice Dixson in a controversial weekly primetime series that will have viewers hooked to the story of a couple whose love will put to the test when a rich and beautiful cougar offers to pay P10 M for 10 intimate days with the woman’s husband.

Airing immediately after For Love or Money every Thursday at 9:30pm is Positive, a landmark drama series that tackles the rising HIV situation in the country. Positive is top billed by Martin Escudero in his most challenging role to date. He plays the role of Carlo, a happily married call center operations manager whose life takes on a sudden turn when he is diagnosed positive of HIV. Positive chronicles Carlo’s life-changing journey and realizations as he backtracks on his past relationships and sexual encounters to find that one person who got him infected with HIV.

Also airing from Monday to Friday is Face the People, TV5’s newest reality talk show that puts the spotlight on people with personal issues that need public intervention. Hosted by the endearing tandem of Gelli de Belen and Christine Bersola-Babao, Face the People airs at 4:30pm.

With this diverse line-up of exciting program offerings, viewers have more reasons to switch to TV5 as the Kapatid Network continues to make primetime viewing so much better all the way throughout the entire week.

Is your app a winner? Enter the Ericsson Application Awards 2014

This is a great contest! Calling all Filipino app developers!

Press Release:

• Developers, startups and anyone who has an idea for a great app, here is your opportunity

• The theme for 2014 is Apps for Working Life, and there will be a global competition and several regional competitions

• First prize is EUR 25,000, second prize is EUR 10,000, and special recognition for innovation supporting Technology for Good. Third to 10th prize  diplomas and honorary mentions

This is the fifth consecutive year that Ericsson announces The Ericsson Application Awards. Students and small- and medium-sized enterprises from anywhere in the world are invited to submit Android and iOS apps.

This competition will give you and your team the opportunity to gain a foothold in the app industry, while also earning recognition and making contacts within the telecom industry.

There will be two categories for this contest – one for students, and one for small- and medium-sized enterprises with fewer than 100 employees.

The theme of the 2014 competition is Apps for Working Life, in support of Ericsson’s vision of a Networked Society in which – through a combination of mobility, broadband, the cloud, applications and services – anything and everything is connected. How can apps help us all in our daily working life both now and in the future? How do we contribute to making the next generation of working life a context where people can better innovate, collaborate and balance life outside work?

In the Networked Society, Ericsson is the leading advocate of Technology for Good and we encourage innovation to help meet sustainability challenges. The Technology for Good award of EEA 14 will recognize achievement in this area.

The winner of the student category in 2013 was Portugal’s GreenSpark, which offered a solution based on energy efficiency with a truly global reach. The UK’s TboxApps was the winner in the company category. Their solution was based on usage patterns in order to get access to instant messages and quickly get help.

In all, 192 teams took part in the 2013 competition (compared with 143 in 2012) from 52 countries.

For more details on how to join, visit www.ericssonapplicationawards.com

Pioneering Filipino Restaurant, Sentro 1771, Breaks Ground at Capitol Commons in Pasig City

I love the food at Sentro 1771! You can read my review of some of its dishes here. I'm sure the upcoming branch will be good news for Pasig residents ...

Press Release:

Something familiar yet exciting. Something distinctly homegrown yet world-class. Modern Filipino restaurant Sentro 1771 is set to open its first standalone restaurant in February 2014, as it finds a new home in another Filipino original, Capitol Commons.

Sentro 1771 is considered a pioneer in modern Filipino cuisine. When it first opened in 2002, Filipino cuisine had long been stereotyped and forever associated with banana leaves and bamboo. Sentro 1771 proved that Filipino cuisine could benefit from Western techniques, borrow from its Asian neighbors, and be plated in a sophisticated style yet still retain its appeal to Filipinos looking for comfort food that was familiar yet pleasantly surprising.

Executive Head Chef Vicky Rose Pacheco said that the opening of Sentro at Capitol Commons would be in time to premiere the new menu of the restaurant chain. As always, it will be simple and delicious, promised Pacheco, but it will be food that Filipinos love to eat but may not have the time to prepare.

While the famous Sinigang na Corned Beef will still be included in the menu, there will be new dishes like Pesang Dalag, Sinigang na Ulang sa Kamias, and Native Organic Chicken Tinola, all Filipino home-cooked favorites presented in a world-class dining setting. Chef Pacheco said that along with an extended adobo section and more vegetable and salad choices, the new Sentro 1771 menu would have new pica-pica (appetizer) dishes. “There will be new dishes that people probably have never seen before,” she said. One of these is the Caramelized Green Mango Bites, sliced green mangoes that are grilled, dusted with sugar, torched and then mixed with bagoong, tomatoes, red eggs, onion, chicharon, then finally presented as a roll.

Sentro 1771 at Capitol Commons will also feature the famous Rated GG, the poor man’s fish (galunggong) presented as fillets in garlic and olive oil.

Sentro 1771's famous Sinigang na Corned Beef

“When we first opened, Fiipinos couldn’t believe that galunggong could be served with olive oil, and in a nice platter at that,” said Ricky Gutierrez, chief executive officer and co-owner of the 1771 Group of Restaurants. “And then we priced it that much, people still didn’t believe it would sell. Today it’s one of our strongest selling items,” he added.

Gutierrez said that when he first learned of the Capitol Commons integrated mixed-use development, he asked if he could be considered to become part of it. “I liked the concept and I like the way they will build the community,” he said.  According to Ortigas & Co., developer of the 10-hectare former site of the Rizal Provincial Capitol, Capitol Commons will feature stunning architecture, which allows strong and meaningful elements of Filipino culture to blend with brilliant and modern execution.

Gutierrez added that the location—conveniently near EDSA and C5—was a big factor in his decision to build in Capitol Commons. Although the group already has a restaurant in the heart of the Ortigas business district, Capitol Commons offered something new to the group. It is at the southern end of Ortigas, at the crossroads of Shaw Boulevard and Meralco Avenue—still at the heart of Pasig yet only a few minutes’ drive to Quezon City and Makati.

Spring Rolls

“We’ve been looking for another Ortigas location. We knew the Ortigas market well enough to know that we had a market in the area that we were not yet serving,” he said. “If you want market presence, you have to go to the market, you don’t wait for the market to come to you,” said Gutierrez. He observed that people tend to dine out near where they live because heavy traffic and the inconvenient distance often discourage them from going farther. Capitol Commons, being at the intersection of major roads, is quite accessible for Quezon City, Pasig, and Mandaluyong residents. Moreover, Ortigas & Co. has built a road on the Meralco side of the property, essentially widening Meralco Avenue and increasing ease of access into the property.

Gutierrez and Pacheco both believe that the dining crowd at Capitol Commons will be quite different from their current patrons at the two other Sentro restaurants. “The crowd in this area is very traditional, and expect value for their money,” said Pacheco, adding that Sentro 1771 already has a following among upper and upper-middle class Filipinos, and its experience with the central Ortigas business district crowd has gained for it knowledge of both business and casual diners.

This being Sentro 1771’s first standalone restaurant, it will offer diners the unique experience of Sentro dining amidst the relaxed charm of the outdoors. The two-storey structure for the restaurant will be inspired by American colonial architecture, with simple, clean lines, plenty of wood and warm colors. As in the other restaurants in the 1771 group, its walls will be adorned with artwork from contemporary Filipino artists.

Bangus and Eggplant Torta

A healthier menu will greet diners when Sentro 1771 at Capitol Commons opens by the fourth quarter of 2013. After proving that Filipino food can be colorful and comprise more than fried foods and stews, the restaurant is now going to show that Filipino food can be healthy as well. To this end, the new menu will have dishes that use organic and gluten-free ingredients. “If you have a cholesterol problem but you still want to eat well, you can always go to Sentro,” said Gutierrez.

The Capitol area is already known as a food destination among locals, it being the location of several cult hole-in-the-wall favorites. “What Sentro adds is something a little less informal yet still feels like you’re entertaining in your own dining room,” said Pacheco. That being said, Gutierrez is quick to add that Sentro 1771 at Capitol Commons will be on a par with international restaurants. “If someone from overseas came over, we’d like for it to be comparable with their dining experience in Europe, the US or other parts of Asia,” he said.

Capitol Commons is a new integrated-use development at the corner of Meralco Avenue and Shaw Boulevard.  It will feature a new branch of Unimart Supermarket, lifestyle stores and dining choices at Estancia Mall, offices for knowledge process outsourcing companies on top of the mall, the Paragon entertainment complex, and luxury condo living in the residential towers, the first of which is The Royalton.

Banana Tart

Capitol Commons is developed by Ortigas & Co., which has 82 years of experience in property development and shopping center management. It is the company behind Metro Manila’s well-loved shopping destinations such as Greenhills Shopping Center and Tiendesitas as well as established horizontal developments like the Greenhills Subdivisions, Greenmeadows, and Valle Verde Subdivisions.

For more information, you may call 4013332.  

PARKLAND - A Trauma Patient Is Rushed To Parkland Memorial Hospital In Dallas. His Name Is President John F. Kennedy.

This sounds like an interesting movie!

Press Release:

Parkland recounts the chaotic events that occurred in Dallas, Texas, on November 22, 1963, the day President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. Parkland is the ferocious, heart-stopping and powerful untold true story of the people behind the scenes of one of the most scrutinized events in history.

Parkland weaves together the perspectives of a handful of ordinary individuals suddenly thrust into extraordinary circumstances: the young doctors and nurses at Parkland Hospital; Dallas’ chief of the Secret Service; an unwitting cameraman who captured what became the most watched and examined film in history; the FBI agents who nearly had the gunman within their grasp; the brother of Lee Harvey Oswald, left to deal with his shattered family; and JFK’s security team, witnesses to both the president’s death and Vice President Lyndon Johnson’s rise to power over a nation whose innocence was forever altered.

The ensemble cast includes James Badge Dale, Zac Efron, Oscar®-nominee Jackie Earle Haley, Colin Hanks, David Harbour, Oscar-winner Marcia Gay Harden, Golden Globe®-nominee Ron Livingston, Jeremy Strong, Oscar-winner Billy Bob Thornton, Oscar-nominee Jacki Weaver Linings, Mark Duplass, Gil Bellow and Oscar-nominee Paul Giamatti.

This film, released and distributed by Captive Cinema, will be showing soon!

Fourth Season Of The Walking Dead Hits TV Screens This Oct 19!

Here's good news I am sure all fans of TWD are waiting for! 

Press Release:

Fans of the hit TV horror series The Walking Dead will be glued to their screens on October 19 when the Philippine and Asian premiere of Season 4 happens on FOX at 8:55 PM.

The Walking Dead is based on a comic book series by Robert Kirkman, Tony Moore and Charlie Adlard, and has had a strong viewership over its last three seasons, garnering 12.4 million viewers for its Season 3 finale. The audience for the Season 3 finale was the show’s largest ever.

With the cliffhangers of last season’s finale, viewers are eagerly anticipating the premiere of Season 4 to answer the questions left in their minds. Will the prison community survive without Rick’s leadership? Can Glenn and Maggie find happiness in such a cruel world? What does The Governor have planned for his revenge on Rick and his group of survivors?

Season 3 saw the death of many long-running characters that had been on the show since Season 1: T-Dog sacrificed himself to save Carol in a walker attack, Lori died while giving birth to Rick’s daughter, and Andrea, a fan favorite because of her strength and will to survive, had to kill herself after she was bitten by a reanimated Milton. In Season 4, viewers will find out what will happen to the remaining survivors as well as be introduced to a number of new characters who will significantly determine the course of the story. Several notable characters from the comic books will be introduced this season, including Rosita Espinosa, who is played by Christian Serratos.

Leading up to the Season 4 premiere of The Walking Dead, FOX will also be treating die-hard fans to a four-day The Walking Dead Roadblock. Starting on October 15 at 11:40 PM until October 19 at 8:55 PM, FOX is going to show all three seasons of The Walking Dead right up until the Season 4 premiere.

The Walking Dead Roadblock is the ultimate chance for FOX viewers to catch up with the latest developments in the series. Fans will be able to relive the most iconic moments in the three seasons of the show, including the awakening of Rick Grimes from his coma in Season 1; the opening of Hershel’s barn and discovery of a reanimated Sophia, plus the shocking reanimation of Shane in Season 2; and the raging war between the prison community and Woodbury in Season 3. It’s a heart-stopping crash course on all things The Walking Dead for everyone who has always wanted to keep up with this chart-topping show.

Catch The Walking Dead Roadblock on October 15 at 11:40 PM and watch your way to the Philippine and Asian premiere of The Walking Dead Season 4 on October 19 at 8:55 PM, exclusively on FOX!

Japanese Restaurant Wafu Offers Its Sashimi Platter at 50% Off on Deal Grocer!

Visit Wafu located in Greenhills. It has a very nice ambiance and great food!

Press Release:

The premier Japanese Style Dining, Wafu, bring its diners a unique experience with its contemporary designed ambiance. Its four exquisite Japanese dining concepts (Main Dining Room, Sushi Bar, Bowls Selection, and Teppanyaki Dining Area) offer its own gastronomic atmosphere and adventure.

The Sushi Bar at Wafu delivers only the finest ingredients flown from Japan. It offers a high variety of fresh food choices elegantly prepared right before your very eyes.

Experience and taste the delectable art of sushi as Wafu and Deal Grocer offer a feast of freshly prepared creations, featuring a combination of all the classic sashimi varieties: Tuna, Hamachi, Salmon, Tai, Grouper, Tamago, Uni, Tako, now for only P999 (P2,000 Originally). Truly one of the best things you could ever enjoy at this destination, Wafu’s 16-Piece Sashimi Platter, is exclusively offered to Deal Grocer members at 50% OFF for a limited time.

Wafu was introduced by Chef Chris Oronce and Mr. Bryan Tiu, president of I-foods, Inc. (home of successful homegrown brands such as: Stackers, Peri-Peri Chicken, Parmigiano, among others) back in September 2012. Chef Chris gained his experience working at the world’s most recognized Japanese restaurant Nobu located in New York among other world-renowned restaurants in the US, like MGM Grand Shibuya, Koi Restaurant at Planet Hollywood, Mesa Grill Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas.

The passion for Japanese food and culture and the desire to cater to the Filipino market inspired Wafu’s menu, a synergy of modern and traditional Japanese dishes using French culinary techniques. To give guests the full and authentic Japanese dining experience, Wafu recommends their Skirt, Tiger Roll, Gyu Don, Soft Shell Crab Tempura, Ton Katsu, Roasted Halibut, and Angus Shortribs.

Congratulations Ms. Solaire Megan Young for Getting Crowned Ms. World 2013!

Congratulations Megan! You are another affirmation that the Filipina is truly beautiful inside and out!

Press Release:

Solaire Resort and Casino, the official residence of the recent Miss World Philippines 2013, congratulates Megan Lynne Young, the new Miss World 2013.

During the 2013 Miss World Philippines pageant, the 23-year old Digital Filmmaking student at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde garnered a total of 10 special awards, some of which are, Miss Solaire Resort and Casino, Best in Fashion Runway, Miss Sports and the title Miss World Philippines 2013.

After the shimmering coronation night at Solaire Resort and Casino, Megan and the other candidates stayed on to celebrate her victory and enjoyed the resort facilities as they lounged at the pool of Solaire to relax after all the hard work in preparation for the coronation night.

Donato Almeda, Board of Director of Solaire Resort and Casino’s message for Megan, "On behalf of the management and staff of Solaire, I extend my heartfelt congratulations. At the Miss World Philippines coronation we knew you would be the strongest contender yet. We are very excited over your win. And we are honored that Solaire was the home of the Miss World Philippines pageant for this year."

Young competed internationally and was declared as the new Miss World in Bali, Indonesia last Saturday, 28th of September 2013. Megan also bagged the special award for winning the Top Model and 5th placer for Beach Body. She is the first Filipina to win the most coveted crown in the history of the Philippines.

Repertory Philippines Announces Cast Of “The Producers,” Set To Open On November 15

Last show of Rep for the year! Don't miss this one!

Press Release:

In celebration of its 46th year, Repertory Philippines proudly closes its 76th theater season with THE PRODUCERS.

Adapted from the 1968 Mel Brooks film of the same name, The Producers was written by Brooks and Thomas Meehan, with songs arranged by Glen Kelly and Doug Besterman. As in the film, the story concerns two theatrical producers who scheme to get rich by overselling interests in a Broadway flop. The humor of the show draws on ridiculous accents, homosexual stereotypes, and Nazis, along with many show business in-jokes.

The original Broadway production, starring Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick, opened at the St. James Theatre on April 19, 2001 and ran for 2,502 performances, winning a record-breaking 12 Tony Awards. It spawned a successful London production running for just over two years, US national tours, many productions worldwide, and a 2005 film version.

Directed by Jaime del Mundo, the cast of THE PRODUCERS features CARLO OROSA and ROBIE ZIALCITA (alternating as Max Bialystock), TOPPER FABREGAS (as Leo Bloom), and GISELLE TONGI (as Ulla).

CARLO OROSA is an accomplished recording artist and stage actor who has garnered recognition in both music and acting. He has been nominated in three separate categories at the prestigious Awit Awards, the 2004 and 2008 ceremonies of which he was later invited to judge. Though known primarily as a pop singer, Carlo has done lead and supporting roles in musicals such as Joseph the Dreamer, The Great White Way (Beauty and the Beast), The Happy Prince, First Name, Honk!, Florante at Laura, Once On This Island, The Lion, The Witch, & The Wardrobe, The Little Mermaid, and, most recently, N.O.A.H. (No Ordinary Aquatic Habitat). He has also worked alongside international superstar Lea Salonga (with whom he shared a record label, Octo Arts EMI, from 1989 to 1991) as a guest in her Broadway Concert at the PICC Plenary Hall in 2002. He first worked with Lea as the Teen Angel and Johnny Casino in the Philippine run of the Broadway musical Grease for Maxi Media Productions at the Meralco Theater in 1994, and, more recently, he was featured alongside her during a visit of UK Prime Minister Tony Blair to the Philippines in 2009. His life testimony was aired in The 700 Club, a distinguished TV program (hosted by evangelist Pat Robertson) that regularly features prominent figures. He has also been the Philippine National Director for the World Championships of the Performing Arts since 2007, and has produced Junior World Champion Performers for three straight years (Aria Clemente in 2007, Catherine Loria in 2008, and Rhap Salazar in 2009). Currently, Carlo is the Business Unit Head for Stages Production Specialists Inc, a talent management company for various artists, including Christian Bautista, Karylle, Sam Concepcion, Enrique Gil, Jay-R, Krista Kleiner, Nanette Inventor, and Hayden Kho.

ROBIE ZIALCITA has appeared on stage in quite a number of notable original musicals, namely Alikabok (1996), The Lion, The Witch, & The Wardrobe (1997, 1998, 2002) and Rivalry (2012, 2013). He is currently starring in Bluebird, marking his fourth original musical in a career spanning 19 years since his first musical for Repertory Philippines, Camelot, staged in 1994. His other theater credits include Carousel, You Can’t Take It With You, The Sound of Music, Moose Murders, and Sweeney Todd (as Adolfo Pirelli).  He has also appeared in Rep’s Children’s Theater; playing the Emperor in The Emperor’s New Clothes (1994), Gepetto in Pinocchio (1996), Fred (a dwarf) in Snow White and Cat-in–the-Hat & Mr. Mayor in Seussical. Outside Repertory Philippines, Robie has been a part of productions like Baby: The Musical (for which he was nominated for an Aliw Award), Chess, Disney’s Beauty & The Beast, and Xanadu.

TOPPER FABREGAS recently starred as Claire in the critically acclaimed run of Jean Genet's The Maids (directed by Anton Juan) for MusicArtes. He was last seen on the Repertory Philippines stage in the hilarious Boeing Boeing (as Robert Castin) and served as Assistant Director for Disney's Camp Rock. His other Rep credits include: Jekyll & Hyde (Ensemble), Leading Ladies (Jake Gable/Stephanie), Shakespeare In Hollywood (Daryl), The Secret Garden (Dickon), The Sound Of Music (Rolf), The Taming Of The Shrew (Bianca/Grumio), Much Ado About Nothing (Dogberry), God’s Favorite (Ben Benjamin), Fame (Nick Piazza), A Christmas Carol (Young Ebenezer/Harry), Cliffhanger (Melvin McMullan), Gay Birds (Emil) and Aladdin Jr. (Aladdin). For Trumpets, Topper’s other acting credits include Castrato (Peter Maclean), The Lion, The Witch, & The Wardrobe (Peter Pevensie: Manila Premiere Cast), and Honk! (Ensemble). For Atlantis Productions, he has appeared in Urinetown (Tiny Tom), Disney’s Beauty & The Beast (Ensemble), Baby: The Musical (Ensemble). He also portrayed roles in Aspects Of Love Manila and Singapore (Hugo/Alex cover) for New Voice Company and Lysander in A Midsummer Night’s Dream for Metropolitan Theater Guild. Most recently, he played the role of Joleon in Digital Divide, one of the entries in last year's Virgin Labfest at CCP. Topper also served as Assistant Director of the original musical Breakups & Breakdowns for Upstart Productions. In 2007, Topper left Manila to complete his studies at the Circle in the Square Theatre School in Manhattan. His New York theatre credits include A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Lysander/Flute), Urinetown (Hot Blades Harry), And The World Goes Round (Male 1), Much Ado About Nothing (Claudio), As You Like It (Adam/Jacques), and If You Give A Pig A Pancake for Theaterworks USA. A regular workshop instructor, Topper also teaches Grade 9 and 10 Drama at Beacon Academy, and has appeared in a number of commercials for Globe, Bioflu, SkyCable, Jollibee, etc. Topper is one of the founding members of the recently launched Red Turnip Theater (along with fellow actors Jenny Jamora, Ana Abad Santos, Cris Villonco and Rem Zamora), Their maiden production, Patrick Marber's Closer, opens this October. He is slated to take on the role of John for their production of the off-Broadway hit Cock, set to open next February.

GISELLE TÖNGI- WALTERS, better known as "G,” has been acting in countless Philippine film and television projects for the past 20 years. Also known as VJ G, she became an on-air host for MTV Asia in the nineties. As an actress, singer (for Sony Music Philippines) and dancer, this multi-faceted artist has won a raft of awards, including a Davey, a Telly, an Aurora, and a Metro Manila Best Supporting Actress award. Theatrically trained at the Lee Strasberg Theater Institute and Broadway Dance Center (concentration in jazz) in New York City, she also holds a Bachelor of Arts Communications degree with emphasis in New Media and a double minor in Film, Television & Digital Media Arts and Theatre from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). Giselle has appeared in multiple presentations of The Vagina Monologues in Los Angeles and Manila, and has played Jean in Stage Door and Conchita in Nilo Cruz’s Pulitzer prize winning play Anna in the Tropics. Most recently, she appeared as Marlene Dietrich in Piaf for Atlantis Productions. Earlier this year, G completed ABS-CBN’s highly rating fantaserye Aryana, where she portrayed the antagonist, Stella. She was also the host of One MEGA’s “Mega Young Designers Competition All Stars” that recently aired on ETC. A writer as well as an actor, Giselle occasionally contributes to the Philippine Star (via her "Oh My G" column) and to the online news network, Rappler for the entertainment/ life & style section. She has taught for the International Academy of Film and Television in LA, where she mentors actors. She is also involved in SIPA (Search to Involve Pilipino Americans), teaching children Filipino culture through creative dramatics. A proud member of the Screen Actors Guild of America, Giselle’s true passion is to help the plight of Philippine women’s reproductive health and works closely with Likhaan, a Manila based NGO with a similar advocacy. Her proudest accomplishment, however, is being a hands-on mother to her two children, Sakura and Kenobi. She juggled family life as a full-time student all through her college adventures at Pierce Community College and the University of California in Los Angeles and continues to do so in Manila as a working mom.

THE PRODUCERS is set to open on November 15 and will run until December 15, 2013. All performances are at Onstage, 2/F, Greenbelt 1, Paseo de Roxas corner Legaspi St., Makati City.

To accommodate all inquiries, Repertory Philippines is now accepting reservations for schools, civic groups and corporate sponsorships.

For details of the show, you may contact Rep:

By phone: 571-6926 and 571-4941

By e-mail: shows@repertoryphilippines.com

By Internet: http://www.repertoryphilippines.com

Tickets are available through Ticketworld at 891-9999, or via http://www.ticketworld.com.ph/

Connect to Repertory Philippines online through the following social media networks:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/repertoryphilippines

Twitter: www.twitter.com/repphils

Instagram: www.instagram.com/repphils

  YouTube: www.youtube.com/repphils

See you at the theater!

Matchbox Twenty to Perform Live In Manila!

Heads up Matchbox Twenty fans! The group is visiting the Philippines in November!

Press Release:

The Philippines is more popularly known as the entertainment capital of the Far East. Another proof is the coming of popular pop rock group Matchbox Twenty on November 8, 2013 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Matchbox Twenty Live in Manila! is another first in the Philippine entertainment history as presented by Music Management International. Rob Thomas, Paul Doucette, Kyle Cook and Brian Yale collectively known as Matchbox Twenty is also known for their chart-topping evergreens such as “Bent,” “Unwell” and “If You’re Gone”. Part of their tour repertoire is from their latest North album, “Put Your Hands Up” and “She’s So Mean.”

Tickets are now available at SM Ticket outlets and smtickets.com. Ticket prices are priced for VIP at Php8450, Patron at 6,870, Lower Box Php5,280, Upper Box at Php3,700 and Gen. Admission at P1060.