DSWD's National Media Tour at General Santos City, Mindanao

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is our government's lead agency primarily responsible for the protection of social welfare rights and for the promotion of social development of Filipinos. It aims to empower the poor, vulnerable, and disadvantaged in our society.

DSWD's mission is to develop, implement, and coordinate social protection and poverty reduction programs like the hugely successful Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (Pantawid Pamilya,in short) or Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) program to fulfill its mission.

Pantawid Pamilya is one of the agency's main programs which advances good health and education of underprivileged children and at the same time provides immediate financial support to poor families throughout the whole country. 

Since DSWD is one of the major departments of our government which is tasked to alleviate the incidence of poverty, their annual budget is increasing every year. Such budget increases demand greater transparency and accountability.

There are several ways on how DSWD advocates transparency and accountability in their programs and services. One of these is by conducting CSO engagement, wherein a third party  monitors and at the same time, joins their programs. Groups like Kaagapay and Kaakbay are prime examples of third party groups, as well as media partners who are constantly invited to not only cover but also participate in their activities.

For my part, as a blogger or an online publisher, I would consider myself as an active and concerned DSWD media partner. They first invited me to witness the launch of "Bawal ang Epal Dito" campaign (story HERE) and most recently, to participate in the National Media Tour (NMT) at GenSan last May 28-30, 2014.

As a member of the press and advocacy partners of DSWD, it is my obligation to witness, understand, and know more about the programs of the agency; and to impart these programs for the consumption of the general public.

So far, I have written a lot of articles about DSWD programs and activities. As part of my commitment to shed more light on their programs,let me share with you the department's latest activity - the National Media Tour which allowed us to gain a deeper knowledge about Pantawid Pamilya.

Most of the activity was conducted at Microtel Gensan, which also served as our temporary home in Gensan. Here's a day by day log of the tour:

DSWD Asst. Sec. Javier R. Jimenez

Day 1 (May 28)

From the airport, the National Media Tour participants were shuttled to Microtel and after a few minutes given them to freshen-up from the Manila-Gensan trip, the program commenced with no less than DSWD's Asst. Secretary Javier R. Jimenez giving the Welcome message. This was followed by the discussion of Highlights of Accomplishments by DSWD's Chief for Social Marketing Unit, Mr. Edward D. Gonzales.

We had a Workshop-1 (Identifying Pressing Issues and Misconceptions) in the later part of the day. Topics tackled during the workshop included the computation of the entitlement for beneficiaries, amount for monthly grant, pawning of cash cards, how and why grants are perceived as dole outs, how grants are distributed, and more. Those issues will be made clearer and discussed further on Day 2, when we visit the community and interact with the actual beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilya at T'Boli, South Cotabato. 

Pantawid Pamilya Beneficiaries

Day 2 (May 29)

Early in the morning we all headed to T'Boli, South Cotabato, almost a two-hour drive from General Santos. We made a courtesy call to the T'Boli Municipal Mayor Dibu S. Tuan before we headed our way to the Brgy Poblacion's Barangay Hall where the Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries were having a Family Development Session. Attending such session is a must for beneficiaries.

We also had a chance to interview Mr. Johnny Tolentino, a successful Pantawid Pamilya beneficiary, who transitioned from "barely surviving on a daily basis" to becoming self-sufficient (story HERE). We also met some of the beneficiaries under the sustainable livelihood project (story HERE).

Benny E. Queman, Kaagapay Teleradyo

We traveled back to the hotel and had an Open Forum about our findings on the field visit. The talent and ideas of the media partners were extracted on Workshop 2 (Drawing and Sharing Insights). Through this workshop, we also shared what we all learned from this National Media Tour and pledged what we can offer to bring awareness and information to the general public about Pantawid Pamilya. 

 DSWD SMU Chief   Edward D. Gonzales,, DSWD Region 12 Dir. Bai Zorahayda Taja and DSWD SMS Dir. Joel Espejo

Nationa Media Tour participants had a lively interchange of ideas with DSWD SMU Chief Edward D. Gonzales, DSWD Region 12 Dir. Bai Zorahayda Taja, and DSWD Social Marketing Service (SMS) Dir. Joel Espejo.

DSWD SMS Director Joel C. Espejo emphasized that Pantawid Pamilya is not a dole out at all. It is a conditional cash grant wherein certain conditions and completions must be met to maintain one's status as a beneficiary of the program. Further, the beneficiaries undergo stages of assessment and validation in order to assure their qualifications.

As the Tour was winding down, a new campaign of DSWD was presented by Edward D. Gonzales, Chief of DSWD Social Marketing Unit. Dubbed as KAYA KO!. Kaya Ko!,it is envisioned to be an empowering campaign for the expansion of support to human capital. It will be launched sometime in August and the official jingle and music video will be a collaboration by Yeng Constantino and Quest.

I am so excited to share more about this campaign, soon! But as of now, only those few details were revealed to us.

By the way, for issues and grievances about Pantawid Pamilya, there is also a hotline that you can text, it's 0918-912281. All your queries will be attended by the grievance officer of a certain municipality. Please report any problem that you encounter or observe within your municipality, so the government can help you and attend to your complaint or concern ASAP.

All in all, I found the National Media Tour very helpful and enlightening, especially for a blogger like me who is always on the lookout for reliable issues and stories for online publication. It also gave media practitioners the chance to clarify issues directly from the officials of DSWD and also to meet and mingle with colleagues and learn from them as well. 

DTI 's Sikat Pinoy National Fashion Fair

Running DTI’s fashion fair. Department of Trade and Industry Usec. Ponciano C. Manalo, Jr. (second from left) and Usec. Victorio Mario A. Dimagiba (right) with the prime movers behind the Sikat Pinoy National Fashion Fair held last May 21 to 25, 2014 at the SM Megatrade Halls, SM Mega Mall in Mandaluyong City. With them in photo are (L-R): Export Marketing Bureau (EMB) Director Senen M. Perlada; Bureau of Domestic Trade (BDT) Director Rhodora M. Leaño; Foreign Buyers Association of the Philippines President Robert M. Young; and Foreign Trade Service Corps Executive Director and Coordinating Officer Raymond Albert H. Batac. 

In his keynote address during the formal opening, Manalo said this event focused on helping our local entrepreneurs reach a wider domestic market and thus become more competitive, by improving quality, as well as marketing and selling products. The fair, dubbed as Piling-Piling Pananamit Pilipino, showcased the products of 150 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) engaged in apparel, footwear, leather goods, bags, accessories, jewelry, and health and wellness products. With the success of the Sikat Pinoy fairs last year, the DTI has set a more ambitious target this year by holding stand-alone trade fairs for the sectors that have a competitive advantage like the fashion industry.

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Review: Unilever's Pure It Excella

     I believe that "prevention is better than cure", I'm sure we have the same idea of taking care of our family. We opt to prepare them healthy food, teach them proper hygiene and of course offer them clear, clean and bacteria free water. The reason why we have a supply of distilled water, that we order for our daily liquid consumption.

     But months ago I've shared with you the Unilever's Pure It Excella (story HERE), a non a non-electric water purifier that converts tap water and even untreated water into guaranteed clean and safe drinking water. Now I don't have to order expensive distilled water and confident of drinking water that we desire.

     As I have mentioned in my recent post, when I first used it, the purified water is taste like medicine or the soft drinks 'Sarsi", which I didn't mind because I like that kind of taste. But my husband keeps on complaining about it, but when we poured out all the first purified liquid, the medicine like taste lessen and my husband can tolerate it. 

     The clearness of purified water from the Pure It is exceptional, I am always excited to drink the water from it. Specially at this time, it is so fresh and refreshing to taste. 

     I also like the style and design of the purifier, because I can place it anywhere without consuming a very large space, I can leave it on top of my table even during party, without ruining the space. 

     There are only two downside that I observe from Pure It which I don't like but can be tolerated, first is the overflow of purified water on its third chamber or the lower chamber when it is full, because it does not have a controller or stopper when the third chamber can full or on its maximum capacity. Secondly is the moisture-like inside the purified water chamber, when it is not full. These are the only flaws I can share with you using Pure It, but I am so satisfied using it until now.

     I can say that my family is well protected in terms of the water we are drinking and protected from any harm of germs and bacteria. 

Experience New Zealand at Glorietta with Singapore Airlines

The New Zealand Embassy, in collaboration with Singapore Airlines and Ayala Malls, recently launched a mall-wide promotion, giving shoppers a chance to experience the beautiful and scenic sights of New Zealand. The promo will run from May 23 to June 22, 2014, leading up to the exciting three-day Experience New Zealand Fair from June 20 to 22 at the Glorietta Activity Center, Palm Drive. The fair offers mall-goers a taste of the finest food and beverages New Zealand has to offer, as well as the best deals en route to this picturesque destination.

To join the promo, shoppers may simply purchase a Singapore Airlines return air ticket to either Auckland, Christchurch or both, plus a P2,000.00 single and/or accumulated worth of receipts from any Glorietta 1 to 5, The Link and/or 6750 merchants. Raffle tickets may be claimed at the concierge at the Glorietta Activity Center, Palm Drive upon presenting the aforementioned requirements. Two lucky winners will stand the chance to win an ‘Experience New Zealand’ tour package for 5 or 6 days to Auckland, New Zealand, inclusive of a Singapore Airlines return ticket from Manila, Cebu, Davao or Kalibo, accommodations and tours. Tickets can be purchased from www.singaporeair.com, SQ Mobile App, Singapore Airlines/SilkAir Ticket and Reservations Offices, and travel agents. Ayala Mall’s AMORE and VIPinoy card holders, as well as Singapore Airlines’ Krisflyer members may also double up their chances of winning by simply presenting their membership cards along with the proof of purchase to increase their raffle coupons.

Participating travel agents are also offering tour packages to New Zealand starting from USD 1,197.00 per person, for a minimum of 2 persons travelling together. Shoppers availing of the tour packages are also entitled to join the raffle promo. For more information, you may contact the following agents: RAKSO Air Travel and Tours, Inc at 812-9667 (Makati)/ 353-4809 (Manila) or email at support@raksotravel.com; Travel Specialist Ventures at 928-7487/373-1449/9210580 or email atrowena.coloma@travelspecialist.ph ; Trends Travelmart at 478-5401/478-5654 or email at marissa@trendstravelmart.com; Interlink at 524-0016 to 18 or email atditsalcain@yahoo.com; Ecozone at (045) 887-0332/332-8961; The Marvels of Travel at 842-7548 or email at lilianne6500@yahoo.com; Land and Sky Travel at (032) 254-5434 or email at richelle.landskytravel@gmail.com; I Love Travel at 232-1366/242-7281/340-3034 or email at ilovetravelntours@yahoo.com; Log on Travel at 313-6319/313-6337 or email at log_ontravel@yahoo.com; or the Singapore Airlines Tours Desk at 753-5151 to 52 or 756-8899 local 7001/7002 or email attours_mnl@singaporeair.com.sg, cc reservations@siaholidays.com.ph.

For bookings and more details, visit www.singaporeair.com. You may also contact the Glorietta concierge at 752-7272 for more details on the promo.

***photos from Tourism New Zealand

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Have a glowing skin with MYRA VITAGLOW BB Cream

Want to look fresh, blooming, and effortlessly beautiful throughout the day? Myra VitaGlow BB Cream is the perfect product for modern girls on the go who need to look gorgeous in a flash. This radiance-boosting tube is packed with multi-benefits for your skin that allow you to combine the prettifying power of skincare and makeup:

It’s moisturizing. This lightweight cream hydrates your skin to keep it soft and supple.

It contains Vitamin E. This helps nourish your skin even more, so your complexion appears younger-looking and healthy. 

It doubles as foundation. The tinted formula comes in two shades: Ivory and Beige, to help you even out your skintone perfectly and hide pigmentations.

It contains skin-enhancing minerals. 

Staying late at the office? Use this unique BB cream to add a natural, glowing finish to your skin! You’ll love how the subtle, light-reflecting shimmers in this cream will make you look like you’ve got a lit-from-within glow. 

You can use it as concealer. Just pat an extra layer of Myra VitaGlow BB Cream to camouflage dark spots and blemishes.

It’s also has sunscreen. The SPF15 in this easy to bring tube will protect you from harmful UV rays that causes premature aging. 

It’s hypoallergenic. Girls with sensitive skin don’t need to worry about breakouts, because this dermatologist-tested cream is proven safe for daily use. 

It's the most affordable! There's no need to hesitate when it comes to purchasing this product, since you can score instant glowing skin for only P99 a tube. Such a great beauty steal! 

Any beauty expert knows that the real trick to any successful beauty regimen is to find a product that works for you and your lifestyle. Myra VitaGlow BB Cream takes the guesswork out of your skin and makeup routine by packing everything you need in one handy tube. While all BB creams moisturize, Myra VitaGlow BB cream contains light-reflecting minerals that make your skin more luminous instantly. It’s easy to apply, too! Just use your fingers and the light and non-greasy formula blends easily over your skin.

"Myra VitaGlow is now my go-to BB cream," says Ana Victorino, local YouTube sensation and beauty video blogger. "I love the instant, glowing effect it gives my skin. With this in my beauty arsenal, I can create my 'no makeup' look in less than five minutes, too."



The NEW Myra VitaGlow BB Cream is available at leading drugstores and supermarkets nationwide.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE:

- Shake well before use. Apply a small amount on face and neck blending evenly for a natural finish. For best results, use daily as your facial moisturizer. Can also be used as a make-up base.

****Click HERE on my personal blog for the product review of MYRA Vitaglow BB Cream and my own look using it.

Join "LIFESTIVAL: A Rare Night of Worship Celebration" on June 14 at MoA Arena

Wanna have a night of insightful stories and inspiring songs as international and local musicians and artists gather together to lead the worship celebration, such as Dove Awardee and international contemporary Christian group The Katinas, the Philippines’ pop rock princess Yeng Constantino, singer-turned-minister Ray An Fuentes, hip-hop and R&B singer Quest, and the new praise and worship team Firebrand.

The LIFESTIVAL will be happening on June 14, 2014, Saturday, 7:00PM, at the Mall of Asia Arena. LIFESTIVAL Word and Worship Celebration is a free thanksgiving offering from Life Oil in celebration of its fifth anniversary.

Everyone who is interested to avail of free Lifestival ticket will only have to like the official Facebook page of Lifestival and send a private message that include the following: complete name, address, mobile number, and the message LIFE IS GOOD! I WANT A FREE TICKET TO LIFESTIVAL WORD AND WORSHIP CELEBRATION! A confirmation message will later be sent individually to all those who will qualify for free tickets, with details on how to claim their free tickets. 

Be one of 10,000 people who are expected to attent the event, including those from various organizations, companies, and churches, headed by the massive network of G12 member-churches. G12 Coordinator for the Philippines and Doulos for Christ World Harvest Ministry’s founder and senior pastor, Bishop Oriel Ballano, will also share the Word of God.

LIFESTIVAL Word and Worship Celebration is also supported by the Philippine Airlines, Malaya Business Insight, BusinessWorld, Business Mirror, Manila Bulletin, The Edge Radio, positivelypinoy.com, 106.7 Energy FM, 702 DZAS, Savory Chicken, and Greenlite Banner. Lifestival is a special event managed and staged by Huper International events and productions specialist.

Ballet Philippines with Tanghalang Pilipino announces "MANHID" auditions

Ballet Philippines with Tanghalang Pilipino invites you to be part of MANHID, the 45th season ender performance slated for February 20 to March 8, 2015 at the CCP Main Theater. Auditions on June 13, 14 and 17 will be held for your chance to be part of it.

MANHID. The Pinoy Superhero Musical was first staged by UP TROPA in 1991 by Auraeus Solito, Kanakan Balintagos, Vincent de Jesus, Carina Evangelista and the Eraserheads.

Actors/Singers between 20-35 who are able to play the following characters:

DILIM (coloratura soprano), LAM-ANG (soprano), ALUNSINA (rock alto), BANTUGAN (tenor/baritone), RADYA/INDARAPATRA (baritone), and other roles.

Auditions will be at the Museo ng Kalinangang Pilipino (MKP Hall) at the 4th floor of the Cultural Center of the Philippines on June 13 and 14 from 4:00pm to 9:00pm and on June 17 from 5:00pm to 9:00pm. Registration begins an hour before the audition proper.

Co-presented by Tanghalang Pilipino and choreographed by Paul Alexander Morales and Alden Lugnasin, MANHID is set in an alternate present day Philippines where the EDSA revolution failed. This legendary dance rock musical features heroes and villains with superpowers, and a people sick with Kamanhiran (Apathy). Celebrating a nation of heroes on the 29th Anniversary of EDSA revolution, MANHID promises to be a must-watch event for 2015.

For more information, visit http://ballet.ph/news/company-news/115-manhid-audition-annoucement.

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

Facebook: www.facebook.com/balletphilippines
Twitter: @balletph
Instagram: @balletphilippines
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/balletph

The 45th Anniversary Sapphire Season. Rare scenes of power and grace. Love, valour and redemption. A toast to 45 years of dance excellence!

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Spending an afternoon at Posh Nails, Perea branch

I was one of the invited bloggers to experience the new branch of Posh Nails at Perea, Makati City. A cozy, homey and bright colors of pink and violet welcomed us all. The location is perfect for busy people who wants to have a pampering time after working hours.

Posh Nails Perea is owned by Ms. Jen Aquino, who along with her sisters as business partners, who believes in the service and quality of work that Posh Nails gives its clients, as they have experienced it for themselves many times.

The place is so spacious, perfect for a spa-rty, kikay gatherings and group pampering treats. You can also customized your  10-15 people sparty packages according to your needs (baby showers, fun chikka etc), schedule ( morning, noon and night) and budget. The staff are all in smile even before, during and after the treatment leaving a good vibes and in tune for an optimistic point of view.

Posh Nails offers a wide range of treatments and services like nail grooming, massages, hair removal, eye lash extensions and themed Mani-Pedi like Watermelon (which I tried), Lemon Twist and Strawberries & Cream. Finished your nails with a wide range of their products like Zoya, O.P.I., China Glaze, Essie, Deborah Lippmann, Orly and Cuccio.

With Posh Nails credibility and consistency to meet the needs and wants of their costumers for years, I'm sure this new branch will definitely goes the trend of the brand. 

Visit Posh Nails newest branch at G/F Maripola Bldg., 109 Perea Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City.

various PETRON engine oils designed for your various needs

As the only and biggest Filipino refiner, PETRON has a deep understanding of the unique driving conditions on Philippine roads, and its R&D team takes pride in formulating products that will deliver optimum efficiency for Filipino motorists.

Engine oils are essential to ensure efficient operation of gasoline and diesel engines. They have two primary functions: to minimize friction and to prevent wear on the moving parts of engines. In addition, engine oils also act as a coolant, protect metal parts from corrosion, and prevent formation of engine deposits.

While all engine oils perform basically the same function, how well a particular product does so is determined by its quality, notably the components that go into the oil blend. PETRON engine oils, which are specially formulated to enhance the performance of all types of engines based on local conditions, have been subjected to international laboratory testing to meet world-class benchmarks.

PETRON Ultron Gasoline Engine Oils contain the Thermal Stress Stabilizing System (TS3) that keeps the oil stable even at extreme temperatures, providing ultimate protection from engine stress while maintaining superior engine cleanliness. PETRON Ultron oils have undergone widely-accepted international engine tests to demonstrate its excellent performance on engine stress protection, engine cleanliness and thermal stability.

Based on an actual test on a Porsche 997 engine, PETRON Ultron provided effective protection against wear. It also delivered excellent control on sludge and varnish formation in an actual Sequence VG test. Its ability to provide superior engine cleanliness was proven when it was tested on a Volkswagen T4 engine. Viscosity tests also showed that PETRON Ultron Oils are stable at both low and high operating temperatures.

PETRON REV-X Diesel Engine Oils are formulated with the Dynamic Cleaning Technology (DC Tech), which provides excellent engine cleanliness and engine protection for long drain performance and longer engine life. It meets and exceeds the stringent requirements of international engine tests designed for diesel-fed vehicles. PETRON REV-X engine oils were tested for engine cleanliness and engine protection. An actual Volvo VDS-2 field test was also conducted to demonstrate the longer and extended drain performance of PETRON REV-X engine oils.

PETRON Sprint 4T Motorcycle Oils are designed to meet the unique performance requirements of four-stroke motorcycles. Unlike passenger cars, motorcycle engines require lower oil volume, have higher power output, and operate at higher engine speeds. PETRON Sprint 4T oils are formulated with Thermal Control System (TCS) to enhance the oil’s thermal and oxidation stability, which are critical for motorcycle engines due to their unique operational requirements.

All PETRON engine oils are offered in different viscosity grades and quality levels to cater to all types of engines operating under various conditions. What makes PETRON engine oils stand out are the unique formulations that have been designed by Filipino engineers who best understand the needs and requirements of the local market.

Defend your engine’s life by choosing the PETRON engine oil that is best suited for your car and driving requirements.

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JC Regino launches debut EP

"Like father like son" that's the first thing came into my mind when I saw the son of Jukebox King April Boy Regino - JC Regino. JC is a 23 year old singer-songwriter, who grows up admiring his father from performing on stage, TV appearances and writing-composing songs. Now he is making his own name in the music industry.

JC Regino releases debut EP with six tracks that is written by famous composers and JC himself. The songs like WASAK, PINAKAMAGANDA, SUKLOB is composed by the legendary Vehnee Saturno, TULAD MONG SABIK by Lito Camo, DI MO BA NADARAMA by JC himself and to complete the tracks is the song KAHIT PA.  

Bloggers had a chance to know more about the songwriter and ask him things about music, childhood and personal life. As a young age JC gained knowledge in playing more musical instruments from guitar, piano, drums and more. I also observe that he has a strong faith in God and said "Pag may plano po kayo sa buhay, sa simula palang po isama nyo na palagi si God, at palagi ko po akong nagpapakababa, kasi sabi po nila ang nagpapakababa, itinataas ng Diyos."

"I want people na maka relate sa music ko, kasi ito pong mga songs ko ay ang mga pinagdadaanan ng mga tao, pag-inlove po sila gusto kong lalo silang ma- inlove, pag sila po naman ay nasaktan o umaasa gusto ko pong mapagaan ng mga nararamdaman nila" JC divulged.

He also sang two songs on his album and mannn.. he sounds like his father, the reason why MCA Music never think twice to offer him a contract hehe. JC has an image of K-Pop members but he really has a heart of a true Filipino rakista.

His album is now out in CD's at Astroplus and Odyssey and you may also download it digitally via Spinnr.ph and iTunes.

For bookings and inquiries, contact Mr. Sammy Samaniego of MCA Music Artist Management at +632 916-2504 local 107, +63917-8565174 and +63920-9682991. Follow them on Facebook/mcamusic and Twitter/mca_music for more updates.

Thank you MCA Music, Spinnr.ph, Pinoy Magazine and LionHearTV for conducting a Blogger's Conference.

Lumia 630 Dual Sim with Windows Phone 8.1 arrived in the Philippines

Make way for the arrival of the latest and first Dual Sim affordable smartphone in the Philippines, the Lumia 630 Dual Sim with Windows Phone 8.1. Feature includes a Quad-Core processor and a ClearBlack 4.5" LCD screen. 

Lumia 630 Dual Sim smartphone gain lots of recognition which includes an award-winning design and you may experience the ones found on a high end Lumia smartphones powered by Windows Phone 8.1.

Present at the launch happen in Mango Tree BGC, is the General Manager of Microsoft Mobile Devices Sales Philippines, Karel Holub and said "We are honored and happy to present to you the Lumia 630 Dual Sim, a smartphone brought by Windows Phone 8.1, with its high-end technologies and apps, people will be empowered to connect on their terms, we believe the Lumia 630 Dual Sim is undoubtedly the best smartphone in its affordable price range".

Here are the amazing features which Lumia 630 Dual Sim with stand-out with any other smartphone in the market:

- It has a seamless switching between two Sim cards that help users more accessible, convenient and better communication.

-It haa a Quad-Core Snapdragon processor that will deliver fast and great way for for social network existence from Word Flow, Internet Explorer, Instagram, WeChat and WhatsApp.

-It also has a new matte polycarbonate design that is changeable in various colors such as orange, green, yellow and matte black and white whioch will perfectly reflect your personality.

- Xbox games, Storyteller on 4.5" ClearBlack screen that gives you a better viewing angles and visibility.

-Access the one swipe notifications from Action Center, it also has the new Microsoft Enterprise feature pack like Microsoft Office, OneDrive, Camera and HERE Maps and Drive+, Isn't it a great tool for those who are working and into playing.

- with SensorCore that help people track their daily activity all day not worrying about the capacity of the battery.

-it has a Bing Health and Fitness feature that is perfect for exercise and exploration.

- a memory expandable up to 128GB using SD card, which will allows you to save spaces of your smartphone memory even the apps.

The new Lumia 630 Dual Sim is available in our country starting May 30, 2014 for only 7,990Php.

----- I got lucky that night because I won a Lumia 630 Dual Sim unit at the said launch though a raffle, so expect a review from me soon... thank you so much Microsoft Mobile and Cohn & Wolfe Philippines.

Unilab's Hey Mom!, Motherhood is Sisterhood

Unilab, the country's leading pharmaceutical company launches Hey Mom!, an online community made by Filipino mothers for Filipino mothers. It is an online portal wherein expecting, new and experienced mothers can access anytime, anywhere.

Hey Mom! emphasizes the importance of motherhood and build a strong community for mothers out there. Providing, giving and sharing relevant information that will help each and everyone about parenting, motherhood and at the same time sisterhood among others.

"Mothers are naturally hungry for information when it comes to parenting and their children but because information is readily available on the internet, it can get confusing for moms. We also want to acknowledge that there is no single rule when it comes to parenting. What worked for one mom may not necessarily work for another and this Hey Mom! can help" says Mildred Manansala, Unilab Assistant Media Manager for Hey Mom.

They are also mom personalities that contribute and will be the face of Hey Mom! website, the former international model VJ Amanda Griffin, Actress Mylene Dizon and of course one of the pioneers in blogging and experienced mom Noemi Dado.

I am sure me and you will go further by the guidance of Hey Mom! website. Let us all learn, provide and share each others information to form a sisterhood like never before made.

Checkout their Facebook/heymomph page or official website heymom.com.ph to know more about it.

go BALLISTIC with its HexTec Technology

Ballistic is a brand for smartphone and tablet protective cases, that has a HexTec Technology, a technology that provides Six Sided Drop Protection, which includes Ballistic Corners. Your gadgets has more protection even if you drop it on the front, back or corners. More so, it is protected against cracked screens, as well as raised lips and corners to protect against scratches.

Recently, Ballistic has arrived in the Philippines and demonstrated the latest technology at the launch happen at Beyond the Box, Century Mall, Makati City. Ballistic cases offers at least six feet of certified drop protection, and did you know that some of their models offers up to 12 feet? yes and we all witness how durable and drop protected the smartphones and tablets is with the Ballistic cases.

Aside from Ballistic's full protection, it also has a sleek designs and colors that fits every lifestyle. Ballistic product series includes Jewel which is perfect for trend-setter, Urbanite, perfect for jet-setter, Tough Jacket perfect for danger-seeker, Tough Jacket Maxx, with maximum 360 degree protection, Every1 for adventurers, Hard Core, full protection from drops, fingerprints, scratches, and dust and lastly the Hydra Series a full protection from water, dirt and drops. 

Ballistic is available at all Beyond The Box stores, Digital Walker, Digital Hub, Quick Sound, Celplus, Datalink Technologies, District 32, Ecentral Cellphone Electronics, iGig, iStore, iStudio, iCenter, iBook, Switch, JMB Albay, Lenin Computer System, Mobile  1, Seatec, Wellworth, Sync, Technopop, Urbanize and Vertex.

You may visit and follow them on Facebook/digitstrading and Twitter/digitstrading. 

Russell Hobbs, has finally arrived in the Philippines

For a woman and a wife like me, kitchen is one of the favorite part of the house. This is where you prepare the most sumptuous meal, cook the most delicious food, and mold a bond with your family like never before. Kitchen utensils and appliances are the most efficient in helping you prepare, cook and make wanders for your family.

(L) Master Chef JP Anglo,  TOCOMS Pres. Clarence Cu,  Russell Hobbs International Sally Sidani and Russell Hobbs Asia Patrick Leow

Announced recently, the UK's leading brand of small kitchen appliances, Russell Hobbs is finally arrived in the Philippines and all are in excitement. Before Russell Hobbs products arrive here, we saw in the cooking show and series, that they are using the convenient and high-tech kitchen gadgets, the host even telling that they purchased it online or in other country. 

Founded in Great Britain in 1952 by Bill Russell and Peter Hobbs and until now it has been a household name in UK for more than 60 years. Did you know that the brand is the first to introduce the coffee pot with an automatic keep warm feature? Yes they are, and only that they also the first to introduce the automatic electric kettle. Today they have more than hundreds of small kitchen appliances worldwide.

Russell Hobbs products offer more than just quality, style, innovation, availability, and affordability, more so they create delicious moments to be savoured. It continues to come with a range of appliances that is practical and easy-to-use with sleek designs like their product line such as Kitchen Collection, Desire, Alurre, and Illumina.

Russell Hobbs is now available at all leading appliances stores nationwide. For more updates and details about the products. "Follow" them on Facebook/russellhobbsph.

4th Coca-Cola Philippines Football Festival

Coca-Cola, the world's largest, most valuable and recognizable brand of beverage, marks its 4th Football Festival. Coca-Cola Football Festival  is an ongoing commitment of the the brand to promote active, healthy and fun activity specially among the youth of today.

This year's Coca-Cola Football Festival is participated by approximately 230 teams, estimated to have almost 3,500 players from different schools nationwide. The league played on the fields of Alabang Country Club with 22 football fields which teams can compete simultaneously, following the 7A Side Football Format meaning each team is limited to to 7 players ages 11-17. They were aiming to hold the championships in 11 different age categories.

"The growing interest of Filipinos in football inspires us to invest more time and effort to support that, through this more and more Filipinos will be more active and have a healthy lifestyle through sports". The President and General Manager of Coca-Cola Philippines Mr. Guillermo Aponte said during the press conference.

More so, Coca-Cola also supports and committed towards the promotion of wellbeing hinged on a global sustainability framework, woman's economic empowerment and environmental protection. They have almost 280 active healthy living programs in 115 countries. Teaching and informing the diffrent communities about food consumption, proper hydration, and physical activity benefits. Like for example the , Coca-Cola PBA Youngstars, Red Cross Million Volunteer Run and Coca-Cola Football Festival.

Coca-Cola Football Festival is a collaboration effort between Coca-Cola Philippines, Powerade, Makati Football Club, Alabang Football School, Alabang Country Club and the NCR Football Association.

Coca-Cola is also the official sponsor of the FIFA World Cup since 1978. Throught the Comapany's "World's Cup Campaign", it invites the world to celebrate football as a force for social good.

all goodness at G STUFF products

Last week I met an empowered woman that posses a great concern about the environment, people and country. Ms. Gina Lopez of ABS-CBN Network is one of the simple lady with a big heart that is doing a great job in rehabilitating the Ilog Pasig and now she recently re-introduce an all natural, clean and healthy products with the bloggers.

G Stuff has all the goodness products that is true with their tagline "Good for You, Good for the Environment and Good for the Community". It is created out of s desire to conserve the natural beauty of the Philippines while growing sustainable wealth and creating stability in local communities.

G Stuff products are all made from all good natural ingredients which can be found in the Philippines, specifically from the communities of ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapamilya Foundation. Like for example our National Flower sampaguita, ilang-ilang and more. The natural extract, concoction and pulp of the plants are naturally process also. Since it is natural, you can be assure that it is healthy- no chemicals, no preservatives. G Stuff ranges from food to non-food, beauty, wellness and even home and pet products.

G Stuff has the goodness and initiative to help the people/communities by giving a pair prices for raw materials that they get and also the work that they are offering within the community. They are truly helping and supporting/giving local social projects, that can also help to eradicate the poverty of the our country.

To avail their products, visit their ne store at 3rd Level Rockwell Power Plant Mall or call 415-2272 and 411-8151 local 3779. You may visit www.gstuffph.com or email them at gstuffph@gmail.com. Products also available at Trinoma and Alabang Town Center.

Follow them on social networking sited like Facebook/GStuff, Twitter and Instagram @GStuffPh.

Discover Palawan, Bicol and Sibuyan Island in Romblon this Summer

I attended the Gloggers Meet with Ms. Gina Lopez of ABS-CBN Network last week and she inspires me to travel more around our country. She told us a lot of things about ecotourism, exploring and enriching the wonders of our country. 

With her product line G Stuff and Green Initiative’s summer destinations, it will utilize things to further cultivate more our ecotourism sites and to organize trainings on manufacture and production for communities. She told us for example the Ugong Rock in Palawan which ABS-CBN Foundation develop and help the people in the area.

To discover more about our country they also having a month of May to tour around Romblon and Mindoro in a very affordable tour package prices. Bantay Kalikasan will be in-charge in a maximum fun and excitement activities for you. At the same time you will also learn about the people of the town and their living.

Hope you can all join the tour with Ms. Gina herself. For inquiries 

"House Of Cards" premieres exclusively on RTL CBS Entertainment Channel this May

The popular series "House Of Cards" starring Kevin Spacey and Robin Wright, is finally here in the Philippines brought to us exclusively by RTL CBS Entertainment Channel. Produced by Media Rights Capital, the TV series is an Emmy award-winning and got lots of recognition.

"House Of Cards" is a political drama TV series which focuses on the power, sex, ambition, love, greed and corruption in modern Washington D. C. Husband and wife Congressman Francis (Kevin Spacey) and Claire (Robin Wright) Underwood is the focus of the story and the story around them to maintain their power and relationship.

I got a chance to watch the first two episodes, for a press exclusive screening happen at Power Plant Cinema and It made me realized that politics is really about strategy and tactics to people in order to maintain your position. Now I am looking forward for the next episodes... I'm sure you'll get hook as well :)

"House of Cards" premieres May 28 at 9:55pm on RTL CBS Entertainment channel 53 (SKyCable) and 196 (HD).

AL GATMAITAN: IN PURSUIT OF A DREAM set on May 14 and 23

Every artist have dreams to pursue, but it is how one conquers those dreams that make a difference. Over the last couple of months, AL GATMAITAN, one of the country’s topnotch tenors was quietly working on a dream project to further hone his craft as a theater actor.

Embarking on a major decision to widen Al Gatmaitan’s horizons, and to further advance his studies, he passed a rigorous audition process and was selected to be part of the New York University Steinhardt School for Music and Performing Arts Professions this coming June. 

But before he takes a bite of the Big Apple, catch AL GATMAITAN: IN PURSUIT OF A DREAM – a special fund raising concert presented by The Philippine Opera Company and Grupo Reposo, in collaboration with LRI Design Plaza set on May 14 and 23, 2014. With Karl Estudillo, collaborative pianist, directed by Will Fredo.

The concert on May 14, 2014 (7:30 p.m.), will be at The Opera Haus located at 3657 Bautista Street, Brgy. Palanan, Makati. Special guest artists include: TV, film and stage actress Ms. Ayen Munji-Laurel, Sopranos Karla Gutierrez, Gabri Panlilio, and Janine Santos; Tenor Nazer Salcedo, Baritone Lawrence Jatayna and Mezzo Soprano Clarissa Ocampo.

The concert on May 23, 2014 (7:30 p.m.), will be at LRI Design Plaza located at 210 Nicanor Garcia St., Brgy. Bel Air II, Makati. Special guest artists include: Soprano Gabri Panlilio, Mezzo Soprano Clarissa Ocampo, Soprano and stage actress Tricia Amper-Jimenez, Film, Tv and stage actress Liza Dino, Singer and songwriter Aiza Seguerra, and World renowned concert pianist Raul Sunico.

AL GATMAITAN has trained at the UP College of Music Major in Voice and experiences in acting from various theatre groups such as Dulaang UP, UP Playwrights, Trumpets, Spazio Teatro and Teatro Calabria in Italy and PETA(Philippine Educational Theatre Association) where he started his career, honed him to be what he is today.

His three years of stay in Italy for language studies, bonded with rigid vocal and acting training from highly renowned masters of the arts in full bright scholarships proved that these people believe in what he can do. He has been part of several telenovelas in ABS-CBN, appeared for the highly-acclaimed movie musicale, Emir, and the Mistress for Star Cinema. His first major film under HUBO Productions, In Nomine Matris (In The Name of The Mother) was part of the Metro Manila Film Festival 2012 under the New Wave Category.

In theatre productions, AL played the Tenor for Philippine Opera Company's Master Class and he has been part of the successful runs of Ang Bagong Harana under the direction of Mr. Floy Quintos. He covered as Roger Davis for Nine Works Theatrical Production of Rent, he collaborated with Tanghalang Pilipino for Banaag at Sikat (under Ms. Jose Estrella) and Noli Me Tangere 2011 (under Mr. Audie Gemora) where he was nominated as Best Male Featured in a Musicale for PhilStage's Gawad Buhay Awards. And he has been nominated twice in Aliw Awards for Best New Male Classical Performer and Best Actor in a Musicale. Last 2013, he played Kuya Boy for Bit by Bit's production "Maxie the Musicale."

A diverse repertoire of songs such as: “EMPIRE STATE OF MIND”

(from Alicia Keys – “The Element of Freedom" by Janet Sewell, Angela Hunte, Shawn Carter, Sylvia Robinson, Burt Keyes, Alicia Keys and Alexander Shuckburgh); UNA FURTIVA LAGRIMA (from L’Elisir d’amore (Gaetano Donizetti); LAMENTO DI FEDERICO ("È la solita storia del pastore" from L’Arlesiana by Francesco Cilea); WHEELS OF A DREAM (from "Ragtime" Wheels of A Dream by Stephen Flaherty; Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens); ALL I ASK OF YOU (from The Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber); NASAAN KA IROG (Nicanor Abelardo, Arranged by Ryan Cayabyab); ANG PAG-IBIG MO (Leopoldo Silos); I BELIEVE (Words and Music by Eric Levi), and much more will be performed.

Ticket price is Php 1,000.00.

For inquiries, please call telephone numbers 8229609, 0917-8072223 and 0917-5224183.

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