Tecnogas Makes a Comeback in the Philippines

Press Release:

Tecnogas, the Italian brand for cooking appliances, is making a comeback to the Philippine shores. With the goal of making high-quality products available to Filipino consumers, Appstar Global Distributors Inc. is exclusively distributing Tecnogas products in the country. 

As the legendary Italian brand bringing you cooking excellence since 1952, Tecnogas is designed to fit your life and your kitchen. It blends together rich and strong values for creating products of unparalleled design. 

Choose your perfect cooking partner from an array of Tecnogas products: cooking ranges, built-in hobs, built-in ovens, range hoods, and table top induction cookers. The brand's cookers are known for their solidity, elegant design, and wide range of sizes and appearance. The hobs are designed to perfectly match the style and performance of your oven and cooking techniques. Meanwhile, the elegant and functional ovens are meant for kitchens made to last. Tecnogas also puts emphasis on the overall look and durability of its ventilation hoods. 

To usher in its most anticipated comeback, Tecnogas held a Facebook contest to look for the oldest yet still perfectly working Tecnogas cooking range. A true testament to its strong design and durability, the winner of a brand new Tecnogas cooking range is Cresenciano “Tote” Paraiso, 67, who owns an almost 40-year old Tecnogas Gas Range.

He wrote in his entry: "Some things are meant to last! This is indeed true for my Tecnogas Gas Range Model 4040-C, which my wife and I bought around 1978. Since then up until now, it has unfailingly served our family. It has withstood countless sessions of cooking and baking, creating gastronomic bliss for our children. Truly, Tecnogas is built to last!" 

Indeed, Tecnogas not only allows you to cook in style but to also share wonderful moments through time with your loved ones. Now, it's time to show off some kitchen flair as Tecnogas products are available again in the Philippines. 

Tecnogas cooking appliances are now available in all leading appliance stores nationwide and offers a 2-year parts warranty.  For more information about Tecnogas and its products, you may visit the website at www.tecnogas.com.ph.

Readers Digest to Honor the Philippine’s Most Trusted Brands

Press Release:

Trust. It takes years to build, seconds to break, and forever to repair. Our lives are fueled by trust and our decisions, whether personal or professional are influenced by the confidence we have in these relationships.

In an era where too much information has its benefits and disadvantages, trust is that one factor that remains constant. Once trust is established, it becomes an instinctive response – the consumer buys the brand without so much as a second thought because they can relate to it as "their" brand. 

For consumers, the mark of a trusted brand is a seal of excellence, and a relationship that goes far beyond price, trends and marketing campaigns.

For business, trust is the ultimate vote of confidence. A forward-facing measure imbued with expectation, promise and satisfaction and a solid reputation of distinction.

MOST TRUSTED SURVEY

On June 30, 2015, Reader’s Digest once again recognizes these companies at the Trusted Brands Awards ceremony to be held at the ballroom A of the Marco Polo Hotel in Ortigas, Pasig.

Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary for Consumer Protection Group (CPG) Victorio Dimagiba will be the keynote speaker while Reader’s Digest Asia Pacific Group Advertising and Retail Sales Director Sheron White will be personally awarding the trophies to the winners.

For the past 17 years, Reader's Digest has approached ordinary Filipino consumers to ask their opinions on what brands of products and services are important to them.

Backed by all these years of research, it has confidently and precisely identified the features a trusted brand must possess in order to maintain relevance and purpose for its consumers.

A trusted brand enjoys international appeal, yet at the same time upholds a strong local connection.  It has individual relevance for all its consumers, just about anywhere and in any culture.

Cost, quality and desirability are all important factors for consumers. Yet it's vital for a brand to stay true to its promises. While brands come in and out of vogue, those that capture our attention, maintain our confidence and win over our trust do so by holding fast to their core principles.

For the Trusted Brand Survey, Readers Digest has commissioned leading global market research company Ipsos to survey a representative sample of people in Asia on their most trusted brands in 42 categories of products and services across a wide range of industries.

Approximately 5,000 individuals were selected across 5 of Asia’s key markets such as the Philippines, HongKong, Malaysia, and Taiwan.

In the Philippines, around 1000 respondents completed the survey. Half were subscribers to Reader's Digest, while the remainder were selected to reflect the demographics of the general population.

Each respondent was required to complete a questionnaire or participate in a mail, face to face, telephone or online survey. Ipsos asked each participant to tell us the name of their most trusted brands and then to rate each of those brands listed on the following six attributes: Trustworthiness, Credibility, Quality, Value, Understanding of Customer Needs, Innovation and Social Responsibility.  This year the awards will be presented in each of the 42 categories.

GOLD Trusted Brands Awards – will be given to brands that scored significantly higher than their rivals.

PLATINUM Trusted Brands Awards – will be given to brands that performed exceptionally, winning their category for at least 3 countries surveyed.

ASIA TRUSTED Brand Awards will be given to a brand that wins the Reader's Digest Trusted Brand award in the same category for at least three countries surveyed.

“Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady” All Set For A Move-Over Engagement Run On July 3

If you were not able to watch the first run, make sure to catch KPANLL this time! It will definitely blow you away! :)

Press Release:

Due to insistent public clamor, Manila’s newest theater group Dalanghita Productions, proudly brings back the highly-acclaimed “KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY THE MUSICAL” in a move-over engagement beginning July 3 at Onstage, Greenbelt 1, Makati City.

“ Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady ” revolves story of two sisters named MELY and VIVA who both yearn to fulfill their dreams. Their sibling relationship and rivalry becomes more complicated due to an unsettled past and a budding romance, all in the context of an ongoing war between the superhero and supervillain teams. Being a maid is tough enough, but when Mely lands a job under a group of superheroes, she steps up to the unique challenge for the sake of her family. The musical takes us through the journey of the characters as each tries to find his/her place in the world where superheroes and supervillains exist.  

Based from Carlo Vergara’s one-act play and graphic novel of the same title, “ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY ” will once again prove how can an original Filipino musical combine comedy, drama, romance, action, deception, confessions, superheroes, supervillains, family and a maid in one fantastic show.  

Bituin Escalante

The cast of  “KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY” boasts of the most talented and highly-respected artists coming from the theater, television and film industry. Topbilled to play the various roles are Bituin Escalante and Frenchie Dy (Mely – maid of Puwersa Pilipinas), Kim Molina and Natasha Cabrera (Viva – Mely’s younger sister), Markki Stroem and Hans Eckstein (Leading Man – newest member of Puwersa Pilipinas), Shiela Valderrama-Martinez and Astarte Abraham (Madre De Dios – leader of Puwersa Pilipinas), 

May Bayot and Kim Molina

Lending support  are the multi-faceted actors from Manila’s different theater companies namely include May Bayot (Nanay – Mely and Viva’s mother), Giannina Ocampo (Nena Babushka), Caisa Borromeo (Windang Woman), Chesko Rodriguez (Popoy Pusakal), Jef Flores (Bazooka Man), Nar Cabico and Domi Espejo (Senyor Blangko – leader of Kayumanggilas), Red Nuestro (Maracas Marko), Red Concepcion and Joshua Cabiladas (Itak-Atak), Elliot Eustacio (Jeryc Sans Rival), Mikoy Morales and Rhenwyn Gabalonzo (Henyotic).

The ensemble is composed of Kakki Teodoro, Raflesia Bravo, Jem Baldisimo, Juancho Escoto, Miguel Ocampo, Francis Benjamin Jorvina,  Alejandro Santos and Brian Sy. 

Jef Flores and Markki Stroem

The artistic and creative teams of “Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady” are as follows: Carlo Vergara (Creator and Writer), Vincent de Jesus (Music and Lyrics), Chris Martinez (Director), Ejay Yatco (Musical Director) Mara Marasigan (Assistant Director), Tuxqs Rutaquio (Production Designer), John Batalla (Lighting Designer and Technical Director), Jethro Joaquin (Sound Designer), Nancy Crowe (Choreographer). 

The production team is composed of Ansis Aldrich Tan Sy, Pertee Briñas and Claudia Fernandez (Producers), John Aries Alcayaga (Stage Manager), Ayam Eckstein and Ria Pangilinan (Production Managers), Julius Martin Lunar and Kim Mendoza (Assistant Stage Managers), Toots Tolentino (Publicist), Prodbook PH (Social Media Manager), Chester Ng (Photography).

Puwersa Pilipinas

“Kung Paano Ako Naging Leading Lady” is set to open on July 3 and will run for three weekends until July 23, 2014. The show starts promptly at 8 p.m. (Friday-Satiurday). Matinee shows (Saturday-Sunday) start at 3 p.m. All performances are at ONSTAGE, Greenbelt 1, Makati City.

For bulk reservations, show buys, and inquiries, call or text at mobile number 0998-5311389 or send email to dalanghitaproductions@gmail.com. For tickets, please call Ticketworld at 891-9999 or via http://www.ticketworld.com.ph

Kayumanggilas

Connect to Dalanghita Productions online through the following social media networks:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/DalanghitaProductions, www.facebook.com/LeadingLadyTheMusical 

Twitter: @dalanghitaprod

Instagram: @dalanghitaprod 

See you at the theater! 

Cyberoam Launches Free Network Security Course for Filipino Students

Hey college students and teachers! Let your university know about this! 

Press Release:

Manila, Philippines, 24 June 2015 - Cyberoam, a leading global network security company, is inviting universities and colleges in the Philippines to join its free security course under its training arm, the Cyberoam Academy.

The Cyberoam Academy is offering its short network security course called Novice to Professional that will provide high quality cybersecurity training for Filipino students.

With this course, Cyberoam Academy hopes to bridge the existing network security skills demand and supply gap in the Philippines and help prepare Filipino students become industry-ready network security professionals. 

A recent IDC report said the country has the largest network security skills gap of 60% in the Asia Pacific region and this supply gap is expected to continue until 2016.

As the first and only industry-academia alliance to help build one-of-its kind network security career program, Cyberoam Academy aims to ensure high student employability and narrow the widening network security skill gap in the Philippines.

“Cyberoam Academy is collaborating with educators in the Philippines with a three-pronged agenda, ensuring industry-ready careers for youth, bridging skills-gap in cyber-security and ensuring availability of globally renowned courseware, certifications and state-of-the-art training labs for educational institutions in Philippines,” said Ajay Nawani, chief of Cyberoam Academy.

The short course with industry-focused curriculum and hands-on training offers students real-world exposure in complex areas like VPN security, malware prevention, application controls, and forensic analysis.

Cyberoam Academy’s Novice to Professional course is open to all education institutions, colleges and universities in the Philippines teaching computer science or computer technology.

College students in their final year with basic computer skills are eligible to join the 56-hour program. The course offers step-by-step learning tools to help students manage enterprise network security challenges. 

The short program also grants access to Cyberoam eConnect, an online portal for academy instructors and students that offers a one-stop platform to share learning activities.

Upon course completion, students who have successfully passed the exam will get the Cyberoam Certified Network & Security Professional (CCNSP) certificate.

Cyberoam will also provide trainings for instructors of the partner universities and give assistance for building up a computer lab for the course if needed.

This collaborative initiative aims to provide enterprises, small businesses and government establishments in Philippines with skilled cyber security workforce against the growing menace of cyberattacks and cybercrime.

Having collaborated with leading universities and training institutions across Africa, Middle East, Europe and America, Cyberoam Academy now looks for like-minded academic partners in emerging APAC markets like the Philippines.

“As disruptive technologies like cloud computing, social media and proliferation of mobile devices invade into Philippine’s network infrastructures, businesses are becoming more sophisticated and vulnerable at the same time. This makes interdisciplinary education for network and cyber security essential," said Nawani.

“Cyberoam Academy is committed to proactively address this challenge, by partnering with educators to encourage higher levels of cyber-security skill development,” he added.

The move will also help ensure that Philippine ICT industry, which is poised to deliver $50 billion worth of revenues by 2016, and employs a huge workforce, has the right skills in network & cyber security to grow and keep the nation safe online.

Colleges and universities interested to be a Cyberoam Academy partner can apply through answering the form published in the academy’s website or through sending an email at academy@cyberoam.com.

The Academy Manager will respond and call the universities within two working days upon receiving the application. A webinar will also be set to discuss more details about the course.

As a non-profit initiative by Cyberoam, there will be no direct costs incurred to become a Cyberoam Academy. For more information about the program, please visit training.cyberoam.com.

Young Travelers Take on Big Adventures in the Cebu Pacific Juan for Fun Backpacker Challenge

The teams have been chosen and paired with their coaches! Good luck young travelers! Have fun! :)

Press Release:

The ultimate backpacking adventure, Cebu Pacific’s Juan for Fun Backpacker Challenge is back on its fourth year, promising even more surprises and thrilling challenges. From June 23 to July 1, 2015, five teams of fun-loving students will explore several destinations in the Cebu Pacific network, for eight straight days—all for free.  

JFF 2015 Teams with Candice Iyog

The teams will begin their exciting escapade in Bangkok, Thailand. After taking on the vibrant Thai capital, they are free to conquer any Philippine destination of their choice! This is the first time the Juan for Fun teams have the freedom to explore any destination in the Philippines. 

They should then make their way to the Juan for Fun 2015’s final destination, Davao on July 1, for the challenge’s culmination. 

Each group is tasked to have as many fun experiences and discoveries, within their given travel allowance of USD250 and PhP35,000. By the end of the competition, the team with the most number of fun activities out of their given budget, and highest ranking in special fun challenges, will be named the Juan for Fun 2015 Ultimate Backpackers. They get to win awesome prizes they can use for more epic adventures. 

Team DoMaRo with Coach Jude

The three members of the winning team will take home: 12 round-trip tickets to any Cebu Pacific international or domestic destination; three Canon Powershot SX600 cameras; three Samsung Tab 3 Lite tablets courtesy of Smart Bro; and, P30,000 worth of gift certificates for Boreas travel gear. 

To mentor the teams as they go on an exciting quest for adventure are this year’s Adventure Coaches. Throughout the duration of the challenge, TV host and actress Iya Villania, musician Champ Lui Pio, YouTube star Bogart the Explorer, host and DJ Joyce Pring, and travel writer Jude Bacalso will stay in touch and cheer for their respective teams through social media. 

Team Extreme with Coach Joyce

“In each Cebu Pacific Juan for Fun challenge, our student teams get to experience a lot of ‘firsts.’ It can be their first time on a plane, in a new destination, being responsible for itineraries or travel budgets, or traveling with friends. It’s what makes the challenge memorable and meaningful for everyone involved,” said Cebu Pacific VP for Marketing and Distribution Candice Iyog.

“We send off this new batch of adventurous young Juans with the freedom to explore Bangkok and this beautiful country of ours. We hope this encourages more young people to think of travel as affordable and within easy reach, if one is bold enough to go for it,” she added.

Team Iskapade with Coach Bogart

The Cebu Pacific Juan for Fun Backpacker Challenge 2015 is co-presented by GetGo, Cebu Pacific’s lifestyle rewards program, and Nissin Yakisoba. The challenge’s major sponsors are Smart Bro, Boreas and Canon. It is also supported by the Philippine Department of Tourism, Tourism Authority of Thailand, and endorsed by the Commission on Higher Education. 

The top five thrill-seeking teams: 

Best friends ready to take on their next adventure, Doel Lozano (21, Notre Dame Dadiangas University), Marielle Padilla (21, ACA SarGen Foundation College), and Rogen Sagarino (20, Mindanao State University – General Santos) make up Team DoMaRo. This determined trio will be paired off with Coach Jude Bacalso.

Team Juan Big Fight with Coach Iya

Team Extreme is made up of Gio Tiongson (22) of Ateneo de Manila University, and twins Miguel Manalang (22) and Luigi Manalang (22) of De La Salle University. Coach Joyce Pring will mentor this athletic trio. 

 

Jassy Tomol (19), Joyce Gonzalez (20), and Kat Locsin (20) of University of the Philippines – Cebu form Team Iskapade. Stay tuned to these adventure-seekers as they discover new destinations and overcome challenges with the expert guidance of Coach Bogart the Explorer. 

 

Team Juan Big Fight is composed of 20-year-old Ateneo de Manila University students Aaron Crisostomo, Asia Wy, and Kyle Favis. They are ready to have great fun and reap big wins with Coach Iya Villania. 

Team Square with Coach Champ

The youngest team this year, Cheloi Marasigan (19), Mischa de Guzman (19), and Rae Argallon (19) of University of Sto. Tomas represent Team Square. These architecture students are raring to conquer this adventure with Coach Champ Lui Pio. 

 

Join these five thrill-seeking teams as they take on new adventures in the Cebu Pacific Juan for Fun Backpacker Challenge 2015 by visiting www.juanforfun.com. Cheer for your favorites and join the conversation on the Juan for Fun Facebook page (www.facebook.com/CebuPacificJFF), the team pages on Instagram or by using the hashtag #JuanForFun2015. 

PWD Farmer Goes Global

Sharing good vibes … so glad that PWDs like Mr. Carpo are given chances to show that they, too, are productive members of society :)

Press Release:

The fruits of labor are always the sweetest, PWD farmer Donald Carpo realizes as he juggles three jobs at the same time.

A maintenance staff at SM City Rosales, Donald suffers from a congenital limb abnormality that leaves his feet and left hand deformed. Standing at barely four feet tall, he never let his physical disability stop him from finding ways to provide for his family.

Donald was also fortunate enough to be given free training through SM on how to grow, plant, and sell papaya for his own profit. The project is made possible by the Committee on Disability Affairs under SM Cares – the mall company’s CSR arm.

More blessings poured over Donald as SM’s project and efforts were recognized by the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability, sending him to a workshop in Bangkok as a delegate.

“Ni sa pangarap hindi ko naisip pumunta ng ibang bansa. Akala ko imposible dahil sa kalagayan ko pero dahil sa SM, nabigyan ako ng oportunidad hindi lamang na makaapak sa ibang bansa, pero para umattend ng seminar na hindi ko inakala ay maiinbita ako,” Donald says.

Sponsored by the United Nations, the two-day workshop focused on building and enabling a disability-inclusive agri-business.

“Nakinig kami sa kapwa kong PWD na nagsalita kung paano nila napabuti ang mga ani nila, at nakapagsaad din ako ng mga gawain ko. Ang dami ko ring natutunan sa mga seminar doon na pwede kong gamitin sa mga ani ko para lalong lumaganap,” he adds.

Donald definitely feels like he’s living the dream, however simple it may be. He feels blessed to have been given countless opportunities despite his disability.

“Mas kampante ako ngayon na may kikitain ako buwan-buwan. Dahil sa SM ay nagkaroon ako ng matinong trabaho. Naranasan kong magbago ang buhay ko dahil sa SM at hindi ko ipagkakait ang oportunidad na iyon sa mga taong kagaya ko na may kapansanan,” Donald says.

From selling tupig on the highways to make ends meet, to trekking on foreign ground to learn more about his livelihood, Donald is proof that disabilities and adversities can be overcome with a combination of hard work and a small shower of good blessings.

Award-Winning Play 'The Normal Heart' All Set To Open On July 3

This is part of history. Learn more and be educated about HIV. Catch this play on its limited run!

Press Release:

AAI / The Necessary Theatre proudly announces the Asian premiere of "THE NORMAL HEART" -  the 2011 Tony Award Winner for Best Revival of a Play about the early rise of the HIV-AIDS crisis in New York City in the early 1980s. During this period, a deadly epidemic was decimating North America’s gay population, killing people in the thousands, devastating an entire generation and changing the way we think about sex forever. 

Written by playwright and activist Larry Kramer, "THE NORMAL HEART" is a largely autobiographical play that puts a human face to an issue often mired in numbers, facts and statistics as seen through the eyes of writer/activist Ned Weeks, the openly gay founder of a prominent HIV advocacy group. He watches in horror as friends and lovers fall prey to a mysterious virus targeting his community. 

For its Manila run, "THE NORMAL HEART" is set to open on July 3 (Fri) 8pm with succeeding limited performances on July 4 (Sat) 3pm & 8pm; July 5 (Sun) 3pm & 8pm at the Carlos P. Romulo auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati City. 

Bart

Topnotch theater actor Bart Guingona (who also directs the play) shall essay the role of the very intense activist Ned Weeks who is both difficult and charming.

Richard Cunanan shall essay the role of Ben Weeks, Ned’s brother, a lawyer, conservative, successful, tolerant of gays, loves his brother.

Topper Fabregas plays the role of Felix, a closeted, attractive, NY Times reporter.

TV personality TJ Trinidad will play the role of Bruce, a very handsome, charismatic, closeted All-American banker, elected to lead the organization.

TJ

Roselyn Perez is Emma, the fiercely independent doctor and researcher. Opinionated. A fighter.

Red Concepcion plays the role of Tommy, the funny, outrageous Southern boy who is all the way out of the closet.

Nor Domingo will play the role of Mickey, the Jewish victim with a sense of humor.

Jef Flores will take on multiple roles such as Craig, Grady, and the Hiram Keebler City Hall representative.

the cast

"THE NORMAL HEART" is a call to arms, chronicling Ned’s personal crusade for justice amidst resistance, intolerance and ignorance on the part of government, family and friends.

A fierce indictment of a world unwilling to confront the AIDS epidemic, "THE NORMAL HEART" polarized the gay community when it was first performed at New Yorkís Public Theatre in 1985 where it earned a Dramatists Guild Marton Award, the City Lights Award, the Sarah Siddons Award for the best play of the year, and a nomination for an Olivier Award. 

In 2000, the Royal National Theatre named The Normal Heart one of the 100 greatest plays of the 20th century.

After a successful 1985 Off-Broadway production, the play was revived in Los Angeles and London and again Off-Broadway in 2004. 

Topper and Bart

In 2011 The Normal Heart received its Broadway debut, earning rave reviews and a number of prestigious awards: Tony Awards for Best Revival of a Play, Best Featured Actress (Ellen Barkin) and Best Featured Actor (John Benjamin Hickey); Drama Desk Awards for Outstanding Revival of a Play, Outstanding Director of a Play and Outstanding Ensemble; the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Revival of a Play; and a New York Drama Critics Circle Special Citation.

The film adaptation of "THE NORMAL HEART" debuted on the HBO premium pay cable channel last May 25, 2014.

Amidst controversy, however, "THE NORMAL HEART" has endured, and today this document of recent history is as relevant and powerful as it ever was ñ a reminder that battles for justice, equality and dignity are not just things of the past.

Made possible by Taal Vista Hotel, the artistic team of  "THE NORMAL HEART" is led by Bart Guingona directing, Baby Imperial and Coco Anne doing set design, Mark Philipp Espina doing projections, Don Taduran graphic design.

The production team is composed of Dodo Lim, producer; Mariko Yasuda, production manager; Ronah Rostata, stage manager.

"THE NORMAL HEART" is produced by The Necessary Theatre and Taal Vista Hotel with special arrangement from Samuel French Inc., New York, N.Y.

Red, Bart, Jef, and Topper

Ticket prices for " THE NORMAL HEART " are: Php1,500 orchestra center / Php1,000 orchestra side & loge / Php500 balcony.  

For ticket inquiries, please call Call 2150788 or 09175378313. Or call TicketWorld at 8919999.

Visit The Necessary Theatre on Facebook and follow @AAITNT on Twitter to check out other details of  "THE NORMAL HEART".

Mercato Centrale & Glorietta Presents: BELLYSIMA! Food Festival 2015

Let's go food tripping this weekend! :)

Press Release:

We’re sending you on a food trip this Independence Day Weekend!

From flavored flans to artisan sausages to edible cookie dough to carabao chicharon to twisted gelato flavors to chili-flavored coffee syrups to organic detox juices to chocolate-flavored surprises! And that’s just the tip of the taste buds.

From the organizers of the popular night food market Mercato Centrale comes the BELLYSIMA! Food Festival 2015. It is a launch pad for passionate up-and-coming food entrepreneurs to share their artisanal food creations alongside healthy and organic food products with equally passionate food enthusiasts!

Set your tummies free this June 12 and 13 at the Glorietta 5 Atrium and be one of the lucky 500 participants to taste and evaluate some of the most exciting gourmet, healthy, artisan and organic food creations from over 30 local vendors.

Bring the whole family to enjoy heirloom recipes, regional delicacies, innovative pastries and desserts, experimental dishes, organic and all-natural healthy food alternatives, and more! Note: Remember to wear adjustable waistbands because you’re going on a revolutionary food trip!

Here is a list of the participants to look out for:

BACH’S BANGUS DAGUPAN - Frozen bangus, daing na bangus, rellenong bangus

BLUSH PASTRIES - Cheesecake, Oreo cookies, flavored cupcakes

BRAVO DELI - Baked products

CHOCO LOCCO - Chocolates, cacao, tablea

COCOA MONSTERS - Chocolate and cocoa-related products, including chocolate-coated dried mangoes

COOKIE STICKS - Cookies in stick form

Blush Pastries, Cocoa Monsters, Cookie Sticks

DELICANE - Fresh sugarcane juices

FRIGGIES - Healthy fruits and vegetable juices

GAVIENS NATIVE CAKES -Traditional Filipino rice cakes

Deli Cane, Friggies, Gaviens Native Cakes

GOOD FOOD - Handcrafted items and organic produce

GORBY BALLS - Graham balls

HEALTHY MONSTERS PH-Salad in a jar

HEALTHY SHOTS MANILA-Detox and cleansing juices

Gorby Balls, Healthy Monsters, Healthy Shots

HOMEGROWN ORGANICS - Fresh vegetables, organic kale pesto, atchara

IRRI – PHILIPPINE HEIRLOOM RICE - Heirloom rice varieties from the Cordilleras

JACOB’S PRALINE PEANUT BUTTER - Praline peanut butter

KURIKIPU - Hot and iced brewed coffee, pasta, healthy juices, brownies

LOKALITEA - Turmeric tea

LOTUS POD PH - Fresh vegetables

MADE BY MAX - Nut butter spreads

MILETTE KAKANIN - Various homemade traditional Filipino rice cakes and other delicacies

MILEA BEE FARM - Organic honey and other honey-based products

Jacob's, Lokalitea, Milea Bee Farm

MILKMAN DAIRY BAR - Edible cookie dough and cereal milk

MIO GELATI - Fresh and authentic Italian ice cream

MR. MONTY - Tofu with veggies siomai and various special sauces like chili and chili garlic in coconut oil

PEANUT BUTTER & JELLY - Imported goodies

PIPER’S PAN - Mini cakes

Milkman, Mio Gelati, Piper's Pan

PURE ENERGY - Kalabasa and beet delicacies, beet healthy drinks

PURPLE BUDS - Red velvet crinkles and other baked products

REYSONS FOOD - Dolci bottled coffee jelly

RITZY PINK SHOPPE - Baked chicken embutido, banana cupcakes and oatmeal cookies

SALATA PH - Salad dressings and sauces, healthy snacks

TOUCH OF ELLEHCAR - Cupcakes

Reyson's, Salata PH, Touch of Ellehcar

TREATS OF TRIX - Cheesecakes in a jar

WISE EATS FOODS - Artisan sausages, chorizos, vegetable preserves, salad dressings, etc.

The BELLYSIMA! Food Festival is brought to you by Mercato Centrale in partnership with Glorietta and is co-presented by OurAwesomePlanet.com and Ayala Malls, together with our media partners The Philippine Star, Entrepreneur Magazine, Yummy Magazine, GoNegosyo, WhenInManila.com, Solar Entertainment, 103.5 KLite and Globe My Business.

For more information, contact us through any of the following: Facebook: www.facebook.com/mercatocentrale Email: admin@mercatocentrale.ph, Contact: 0917-8401152

Sharing Good Vibes: Manong Guard as the “Unlikely” Hero

Sharing this because we all need to be reminded of, and acknowledge, the inherent goodness of people and that, we too, should conduct ourselves with integrity in everything we do ...

Press Release:

With the volume of people going in and out of malls everyday, being a security guard tasked to ensure everyone’s safety is no joke. A security guard is expected to be quick on his feet and always mentally alert especially since security risks these days are getting trickier. That is why security personnel always have to undergo regular training.

Mr. AV Paule led the presentation of Plaque of Appreciation 
given by all accredited Security Agency Providers to 
P/SUPT PERGENTINO NOBLE MALLABED JR, Chief of Police, Sta Rosa City, Laguna 
as a gesture of thanks and gratitude on his precious time and efforts 
shared before the graduates being the guest speaker

Being the biggest mall in the country in terms of number of branches and daily foot traffic, SM handles security as a top priority. Apart from the training, the SM Security Force also rewards exemplary performance from its ranks. In a recent graduation ceremony held at SM North EDSA, several security guards were given recognition and commendation for their honesty, alertness, and dedication. 

Not too many people realize this, but the amount of cash that security guards find and turn over to mall administration for return to customers is big enough to test one’s moral virtues. The value ranges from as “low” as PhP 22,000 to a staggering US$ 2,000! Any lesser human being would have easily ran away with the money; but not these security guards, who believe that honesty is –  as the cliché goes – the best policy.

Aside from cash, these security guards also face the temptation that goes with electronic gadgets left by customers like cellular phones and music players. Again, others can just as easily say, “finders keepers” and run to the nearest gadget stall to sell the goods. Only security guards with integrity would take the high road and surrender the found items to proper authorities. 

(from left) Mr. AJ Alabe, AVP CRS, Mr. Jayred Martin, CRS Rep, SMCM, 
Mr. AV Paule, SVP for EDD Security Affairs, and Mr. FH Buena, SAVP, CRS SM Retail. 
 Mr. Martin has been bestowed the SM Alertness Medal with 1st Bronze Equilateral Triangle.

The commended security men were also responsible for the arrest of salisi gang members, shoplifters, pickpockets, and swindlers. Bear in mind that they are not police officers, and therefore do not carry firearms whenever they are inside the mall. For them to catch these criminals is courageous that not any regular Juan can do.

Perhaps it would help us customers to remember that the life of kuya sikyo is always on the line while he looks after our own. His job may not be as dangerous as that of a soldier, but risky and daunting just the same if you take into consideration the thousands of civilian customers and tenants he has to look after, day in and day out. 

So, to SM security guards like Jayred C. Martin, Norberto S. Bautista, Jr., Angelito P. Fuentes, Dominador O. Apawan, Lourince Z. Olog, Dexter P. Gadot, Melvin O. Muramatsu, Rowell R. Condolon, Oliver M. Maramag, and Ramon P. De Leon – saludo kami sa inyo, mga sirs!

On our part, it wouldn’t hurt to give manong guard a short smile or acknowledgment once in a while. Try it the next time you go to a mall :)

Energizer Night Race Manila 2015 to Benefit the Children of Bantay Bata 163

Hey, fellow runners! Let's run for a good cause! Sign up for this year's Energizer Run, now!

Press Release:

Energizer is set to launch its first open run on June 27, 2015 where over 3,000 runners are expected to light up the streets of Filinvest City in Alabang. This is part of Energizer’s ongoing commitment to share positive energy with the children of Bantay Bata 163.

According to Claire Guevarra, senior brand manager of Energizer, the company’s partnership with Bantay Bata 163 allowed them to further their thrust in giving back to the community.

"It is important to put self-improvement as your daily goal in life, but stretching your arms to further help others is one of the best indicators that we have lived fully. With our partnership with Bantay Bata 163, we were able to realize this, and we will continue to engage ourselves in a partnership that nurtures both the brand and the beneficiaries it embraces." said Guevarra.

As an open run, the participants are encouraged to keep going and run as far as they can within the 2 hours given time.  For every 3k loop that the runners will run, P100 will be donated to Bantay Bata 163 as part of its operation and medical treatment funds. With the expected runners, the Energizer Night Race Manila 2015 aims to raise P1,000,000.00 with the help of the participants who will run within the 2 hours given time.

According to Vincent Lizo, Energizer Philippines’ business director, the first open run bears truth that no competition is needed if we want to help improve the lives of children.

"Being generous is all about benefiting others more than yourself," Lizo said. "For its part, Energizer, as a company, will recognize every runner of this event as a winner since no medal nor any form of special recognitions are needed to fulfill our responsibilities to the community," added Lizo.

Meanwhile, MJ Tiquia, Energizer brand activations manager, shared that the company will offer a different running experience to its loyal participants. This year’s race kit is priced at 700 pesos covering any distance, which includes a race singlet, race bib, Energizer headlight,  Energizer cap, and Schick Xtreme 3 Razor. It will also provide access to pre and post race activities, which will feature different bands to provide fun and entertainment. 

"The runners’ time will be monitored through the radio frequency identification (RFID), which tracks every 3k loop a runner makes. Kilometer markers in the race route are available to serve as the runners’ references," Tiquia said. "For this event, runners will have to run as many loops as they can to keep on going for positive energy."

A battery meter will light up every time a runner finishes a three-kilometer un. This battery meter will compile all the three kilometer runs every runner makes until it reaches a one million target. This will be put on view through an LED-display onstage, and in the start and finish arc.

"We would like this year’s night race to be the participants’ source of fulfillment since they are able to radiate positive energy to the people involved," Tiquia said.

She added, “"Truly, this will not only be a venue of fun and excitement, but more importantly, a source of hope for the children of Bantay Bata 163."

"We are inviting everyone to come and join us in this event. This is a good venue to bond with families and friends through a healthy activity, and at the same time help in the common cause for the children of Bantay Bata 163," Guevarra concluded. 

 

Registration includes both online and through official registration sites Reebok Filinvest, Trinoma and Megamall, RUNNR BGC and Royal Sporting House Glorietta.  Online registration and details of event are through Energizer’s official website at www.energizer.com.ph,  www.Facebook.com/EnergizerPH, and race partner www.pepsquadevents.com.

Meet The #UltimateBandkada Judges

Meet the judges and keep voting for your favorite Greenwich bandkada!

Press Release:

Manila, as we know, is brimming with tons of incredible talent. From art to music, gifted individuals have slowly been making themselves known through various events and competitions. Helping us spot some bands with potential are the judges chosen for Greenwich’s The #UltimateBandkada Search.

After a three-month boot camp, eight Bandkada finalists will have to make a lasting impression on a panel of judges comprised of a few of the best in the local music industry, namely: EVP of Viva Music Group MG Mozo, A&R Manager Civ Fontanilla, singer-songwriters Thyro Alfaro and Mark Bautista, Greenwich General Manager Albert Cuadrante, Greenwich Marketing Director Pamela Reyes, and JB Music owner Jericho Fernando.

The list may sound a tad bit intimidating, but unlike most music competitions, the Greenwich #UltimateBandkada Search is not a hit-the-right-notes-or-go-home kind of event. The seven judges are looking for more than just the musical prowess. 

Judge Civ Fontanilla

“Aside from being a hit-potential, I look for a band that’s different—in terms of music as well as how they present themselves,” says Civ Fontanilla.

“You can always feel if a singer or a group of singers really have that much passion for their craft,” adds MG Mozo.“When they sing, you can feel the emotion. And being in a band, well, they have to jive in their looks, their sounds, and their attitudes. It has to be one whole package. It has to be one whole team.”

Proving that they are a team will be one of the biggest challenges for the eight Bandkadas because one of their major tasks is to incorporate a mash up of two or more genres into an original Greenwich theme song.

Judge MG Mozo

“Mash ups are very interesting,” says MG Mozo. “For you to be able to weave different kinds of genre in one song, that would really entail much creativity and talent. It has to feel good and sound good to the ears.”

There will always be something new and interesting from the younger and fresher minds; and guidance from mentors and judges can turn something creative into a brilliant masterpiece. As the judges unearth new talents, stoke their fires, and critique them in terms of originality, genre mash up, audience impact, chemistry, and stage presence, they will also simultaneously act as support beams. Because where there is talent, there should also be people to nurture it, making sure their stars stay shining bright.

Judge Jericho Fernando

# # #

Get to know each band, watch them perform and vote for your favorite. The band with the highest number of votes will be given the Favorite ng Barkada Award at the finale on August 8, 2015 in Valkyrie @ The Palace, Uptown BGC. 

Avail of your daily free vote or buy any of The #UltimateBandkada Feast for additional votes. For more information, please visit www.ultimatebandkada.com.

The Greenwich #UltimateBandkada Search is in partnership with MTV Pinoy, Viva Records, and JB Music.