Saturday, October 31, 2015

Get ready for another Honda Gen-S story




Are you ready for another Honda Gen-S story? Well better be sure about that, because Honda, the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, will be unveiling another exciting motorcycle in our country. The long wait is over, to see, witness and experience the powerful sports engine in its class to date.  

The streets of the metro is once again be filled with a newest products from the makers of technologically advance Scooters with Smart Engines to the most powerful Sports Engine in its class, because Honda now brings the New Generation 150cc Liquid-cooled DOHC 6-speed racing engine born out of Moto GP DNA. 

The Gen-S Sports Model will be finally unveiled to the public in this year’s Inside Racing Grand Prix (IRGP) event, that will be happening on November 15 at Carmona , Cavite and will soon be available at leading Honda stores and dealers nationwide.

Let your Honda Gen-S Story be shared and told with everyone :)

To learn more about Honda Gen-S Stories you may visit www.hondaph.com or follow them on www.facebook.com/hondaph.


Apple appoints Power Mac Center as sole carrier of solid gold Apple Watch Edition

The long wait is over. Apple Watch has finally arrived at Power Mac Center, the premier Apple partner in the Philippines. After months of anticipation following its worldwide launch in March, the Apple Watch launched in the country and announcing that only Power Mac Center’s as the sole carrier of solid gold Apple Watch Edition.

Apple Watch is the tech giant’s first foray into wearable technology. Apart from being an incredibly accurate timepiece and a groundbreaking health and fitness companion, Apple Watch was designed to provide more intimate and immediate ways of connecting. Important information and essential features are now just a raise of the wrist away.



“Power Mac Center customers have long been clamoring for us to carry Apple Watch in our retail locations. Finally, they can get their hands on Apple’s most personal device yet,” said Princess Laosantos, Manager - Product Management Department of Power Mac Center.

At its core, Apple Watch enables users to view key notifications like call, text, and email alerts, and respond anytime, anywhere. Users can ask assistance from Siri at the push of the Digital Crown, control music by voice, and pay even without credit card on-hand through Apple Pay. With Digital Touch, Apple Watch allows communication in all-new ways such as through a sketch, a tap, or even the rhythm of the user’s own heartbeat.

In the same way that choosing what to wear is very personal, Apple encourages users to inject their personality into their choice of Apple Watch. It comes in three models, the aluminum Apple Watch Sport, the stainless steel Apple Watch, and the solid gold Apple Watch Edition in two sizes, the 42-mm and 38-mm. The watch face can be customized in a lot of ways, ranging from traditional analog, to beautifully animated butterflies and jellyfish, to the information-rich modes. A full range of straps and bands in stainless steel, leather, and fluoroelastomer can also be easily interchanged.

Apple Watch Edition, crafted from custom rose or yellow 18-karat gold alloys, is available exclusively at Power Mac Center Greenbelt 3. Those who want to try it on may arrange an appointment and be assisted by Apple Watch Experts deployed in-store.

While Apple Watch supports most iOS apps, it is particularly proud of its integrated health and fitness apps. Apple believes that fitness isn’t limited to running, biking, and hitting the gym. Apple Watch tracks every physical activity and encourages further movement. It ultimately helps set and keep track of fitness goals.

​Patrons may avail of Apple Watch models from Power Mac Center Greenbelt 3 and TriNoma. Price starts at ₱19,990.00 for Apple Watch Sport.

For more information, go to http://www.powermaccenter.com or Like/Follow Power Mac Center on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


Friday, October 30, 2015

Smart offers iPhone 6s FREE at Plan 2000 and iPhone 6s Plus FREE at Plan 2499

SMART announced that the much anticipated and advanced iPhones to date iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus, with super-sized data offers and awesome perks aimed at giving you the Smart Life experience.

Starting November 6, SMART will be giving you a special treat because you can get the iPhone 6s FREE on Plan 2000 under a 30-month contract, this includes a super-sized 10GB data allowance for all your videos, music and games; plus All-Month Surf, which gives you access to all your favorite websites and apps like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and chat apps like Viber, Whatsapp, Line and Messenger, among many others, throughout the 30-month period. This and more until December 31, 2015.


Moreover, you can also have an iPhone 6s Plus FREE on Plan 2499 under a 30-month term, inclusive of super-sized 15GB data allowance and All-Month Surf which you can enjoy throughout the duration of the contract.

The limited offer iPhones will also be available via Smart Infinity, Smart’s premium postpaid brand, where members can get complimentary iPhone 6s 128GB under Infinity Consumable Plan 5000 or two units of iPhone 6S 16GB under Consumable LTE Plan 8000.

Smart’s other unbeatable offers for the iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus are available at www.smart.com.ph/iphone. For more about Infinity’s unparalleled perks and privileges that come with the new iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus plans, visit www.smart.com.ph/Infinity.


Awesome experiences await new and existing Smart Postpaid subscribers who are upgrading to the new iPhones with Smart:

1.    Be among the first to get the iPhone 6S Rose Gold (16GB) via special Uber delivery from Smart. Smart and Uber have teamed up to deliver your new iPhone 6s Rose Gold (16GB) at your doorstep when the clock strikes 12:01 on November 6,Friday! Simply click “Request an iPhone6s” on the Uber app, prepare to pay using your debit or credit card, and get ready for much bigger surprises. Moreover, all new Uber users get 50% off (with maximum worth of P200) on their next two Uber rides.

2. Get 20% discount from Zalora. Experience the high life with as much as 20 percent discount for a minimum purchase of P500 from leading online fashion store Zalora.

3. Enjoy P2500 Airbnb discount. Enjoy P2,500 discount on your Airbnb booking with a minimum spend of P8,000 at any listing in over 190 countries around the world. 

4. Get iflix access. Get three months’ worth of iflix access plus 1GB of data for streaming your favorite movies and TV shows.

5.   Win a new gadget instantly. With Smart’s Share the Joy Gadget giveaway promo, you can get a chance to take home another brand new gadget instantly when you sign up for a Smart Postpaid Plan or recontract at Smart stores nationwide.

6.  FREE Gadget Shield. Get FREE 30-day insurance for your new iPhone with Smart’s Gadget Shield.

7.  Upgrade with Smart’s Wipeout promo. Wipe out your existing contract to upgrade to the new iPhones and enjoy corresponding discounts depending on the number of your remaining months in your contract.

8.  Purchase from Apple Music, App Store and iTunes even without a credit card. Smart is the only mobile network that lets you enjoy the full range of digital content from the Apple Store, iTunes and Apple Music even without a credit card through the groundbreaking Smart Pay-With-Mobile service. Simply text REG to 4949 so you can start buying apps and charging in-app items on top of your postpaid bill or deducted from your prepaid load – a first in the country.

The breakthrough features of the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus can only be optimized when you are on the country’s biggest and most advanced network, according .

With the iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus, Apple has once again pushed the boundaries of mobile innovation, allowing us to achieve so much more with our phones and experience the Smart Life with entertainment, convenience and peace of mind on the go,” said Kathy Carag, Smart Postpaid Head.

For complete details on pricing, please visitsmart.com.ph/iphone. For more information on iPhone, please visit: www.apple.com/iphone.


This communication is intended solely for the use of the addressee and authorized recipients.  It may contain confidential or legally privileged information and is subject to the conditions in http://www.smart.com.ph/corporate/disclaimer.

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star, presents the limited-edition DC Comics collection



Converse and DC Comics (
Warner Bros. Consumer Products and DC Entertainment) fan and enthusiast out there, you have to check this eighth collaboration which started Fall of 2010. The limited-edition DC Comics collection features your favorite characters from DC Comics which we all grew up with and this generations inspiration. 

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Wonder Woman, Batman, Justice League and Superman are all illustrated by renowned DC Comics artists like Jim Lee, Jock (Mark Simpson), Andy Kubert ad Kenneth Rocafort.


Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Wonder Woman sneaker features amazing artwork from the Co-Publisher of DC Entertainment, Jim Lee. The sneakers is designed with two different images of Wonder Woman on both sides and Wonder Woman logo is printed on the tongue and on the laces. Suggested Retail Price: Php 3,510 Sizing: 5-8 Ladies

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Batman sneaker features the artwork designed by British comic artist Jock. The sneakers is designed with two bold illustrations of Batman on both side, the iconic Batman logo is printed on the tongue of the sneaker and on the laces. Suggested Retail Price: Php 3,510.00 Sizing : 7-11 Mens


Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Justice League sneaker illustrates the team of DC Comics Super Heroes on both sides of the sneaker created by Andy Kubert. Compelling imagery is printed on the sneaker with the Justice League logo screened on the tongue and comes with both white and black laces that allow for customization. Suggested Retail Price: Php 3,510.00 Sizing : 7-11 Mens

Converse Chuck Taylor All Superman sneaker features artwork by Kenneth Rockfort that highlights two different images of Superman on both sides of the sneakers . The iconic red and yellow S-Shield is printed on the tongue of the sneaker and includes a red lining with an allover printed logo. Suggested Retail Price: Php 3,510 Sizing : 7-11 Mens

They you go, what's your pick? for me of course the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Wonder Woman, for it to represent my strength as a woman, girl power heheh... But for my husband I think he will pick for Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Batman and that's my plan to give for him this Christmas hsssttt :)


Thursday, October 29, 2015

Let Starbucks Spark Your Christmas spirit

The holidays are back, and so are your favorite Starbucks seasonal flavors and gifting ideas. Here's an up-close look on the Starbucks 2016 holiday menu and premium items that will surely give you, your family, and friends a unique Starbucks Experience this Christmas.

The annual Starbucks Philippines planner tradition

For Starbucks fans, the holidays mean it's time to collect stickers to redeem the much-awaited Starbucks planner. And for the 2016 edition, Starbucks partners with legendary Moleskine® to create the Limited Edition Starbucks by Moleskine® 2016 planner.



Moleskine® is the heir and successor to the legendary notebooks used by artists and thinkers over the past two centuries: among them Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway and Bruce Chatwin. Beloved by the creative community, the brand carries over its notable design to create a Starbucks planner that is durable and versatile, with a simple, straight-to-the-point format and lots of free spaces where you can write and doodle.

All planners are made with acid free paper and subjected to rigorous quality controls to ensure every detail is preserved.

Creating new chapters in your Starbucks by Moleskine® 2016 planner is made even more special as you’ll get to help non-profit organizations Teach For The Philippines (TFP) and the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) to fund their advocacies.

Special holiday beverages

Collecting stickers for the Limited Edition Starbucks by Moleskine® 2016 planner is still as fun and exciting as ever with Starbucks bringing back its festive holiday beverages. Aside from the returning seasonal favorites Toffee Nut Latte and Peppermint Mocha, Starbucks also unveils the all new Christmas Panettone Latte.


Take in the festive mood as you take a sip of the newest holiday beverage, the Christmas Panettone Latte. This deliciously festive beverage is inspired by the classic Italian Christmas pastry, the Panettone, which is a type of sweet bread loaf similar to a fruitcake traditionally prepared and enjoyed for Christmas and New Year.

You'll be transported to an Italian romantic holiday with Christmas Panettone Latte's sweet pastry aroma, buttery taste, and orange, cranberry and apple sprinkles. It goes perfectly with steamed milk and roasted espresso, topped off with whipped cream and a medley of dried fruits for a textural and delicious twist on a classic holiday tradition.

The Card that keeps on gifting

Receive great rewards for every purchase of your favorite Starbucks beverages using a Starbucks Card. Crafted with specialized designs, each iconic Starbucks Card will surely spark a smile on any occasion.


This year, be enchanted with Starbucks featured Cards as it partners with Swarovski®, the world's leading producer of precision-cut crystals. Send your best Yuletide wishes to your family and friends through the Starbucks x Swarovski® Mini Card, decorated with 29 dazzling Swarovski® crystals. This special limited edition card can be redeemed through an initial consumable load amount of PhP2,500.



The Starbucks Holiday Tree and Snowman Card designs are also back for an initial consumable load amount of PhP300, these classic cards serves as a perfect gift idea that anyone on your list will surely love.

More treats to complement the season

Starbucks welcomes the return of the Starbucks® Christmas Blend, which has been enjoyed by millions around the world for more than 30 years. To create this blend, Starbucks ages some of its finest Sumatra beans for up to five years, and as the coffee rests, it develops a spicy, cedary, deep and earthy flavor. These beans are then combined with robust coffee beans from Asia-Pacific and vibrant coffees from Latin America to result in a full-bodied coffee.




You can now also enjoy Starbucks® Christmas Blend Espresso Roast, Starbucks® Christmas Blonde Roast, Starbucks VIA® Ready Brew Christmas Blend and Starbucks Christmas Blend Origami™ to complement sparkling conversations at a dinner party or sweet holiday treats.

Pair up any of your favorite Starbucks beverage with new holiday food items like the Starbucks White Chocolate Truffle Cheesecake, Birthday Cake, Dark Belgian Chocolate Cake, Rocky Road Cookie stuffed with Oreo, Italian Pocket, and Roasted Chicken and Turkey Wrap, as well as some returning Christmas favorites like the Chocolate Toffee Nut Loaf, Chicken Fajita Roll, Gingerbread Cookie, Peppermint Brownie and Chocolate Crepe Cake.

Starbucks also unveils its new pasta lineup, the Penne Al Formaggio and Spinach Lasagna, perfect for people who love pairing their pastas with coffee, as well as the Starbucks Biscotti collection which includes individually-wrapped artisanal biscotti packaged in a beautiful box with premium metallic gold printing and metallic pantone lines, great as a Christmas party giveaway.

Coffee-inspired holiday gifting ideas

The Starbucks limited edition holiday collection definitely suits every coffee lover and trendsetting Starbucks fan. Make your loved ones feel special each time they use their own Starbucks x S’Well Bottles— the ultimate bottle solution that marries form and function that can keep drinks cold for 24 hours and hot beverages hot for 12 hours. This well-designed bottle is available in Rowboat Red, Sparkling Champagne and London Chimney colors.




Starbucks also brings more gift items this year like its fashionable holiday mugs, Starbucks Acrylic Tumblers, holiday Waterbottles & Cold Cups, Starbucks Little Giftables and the adorable Starbucks Santa Boy and Santa Girl Bearista Bear.

Yearly, Starbucks reimagines the holiday experience in its stores, staying true to many seasonal traditions while adding innovative and relevant products for Filipino holiday shoppers. For more information about the Starbucks by Moleskine® 2016 planner, Starbucks Cards, and the Starbucks holiday menu and merchandises, visit www.starbucks.ph. 



Smart and Airbnb team up to offer awesome travel for Filipinos

Are you ready to travel and go places around the world? Well if you are a Smart subscriber, you have the chance to do that. Smart teams up with the world's biggest community-driven hospitality company, Airbnb. 

From apartment type, to a villa or even a castle, Airbnb is changing the way people travel by opening up millions of unique accommodations in more than 34,000 cities in over 190 countries. Airbnb offers a reasonable and affordable accommodations for everyone all over the world.



Moreover Airbnb ia an award-winning app, which is downloadable for free on the App Store and Google Play Store, makes searching, communicating with hosts and booking safe, seamless and fun and brings the world at the fingertips of Filipino travelers who are in search of a home away from home.

Today Smart Prepaid, Smart Postpaid and Smart Bro subscribers can now enjoy a P2500 discount for a minimum of P8,000 booking, here or abroad, on Airbnb.



Ariel Fermin, EVP and Head of Consumer Business at Smart says "We are very thrilled to partner with Airbnb and give all Smart subscribers the first dibs on this exclusive Airbnb perk. This is one of the ways Smart continues to deliver awesome moments to our customers, allowing them to experience the Smart Life – with unparalleled entertainment, convenience and peace of mind on the go – through the world’s leading mobile innovations, no less.”

JJ Chai, Regional Director for South East Asia at Airbnb shared that they are excited to reach more Filipinos through the partnership with Smart. To unforgetable travel experiences in just a few clicks away on Airbnb.
Text SMARTAIRBNB to 2855
From today until January 2016, Smart subscribers will receive a P2500 Airbnb discount for any Airbnb booking with a minimum spend of P8,000. The discount is limited to one booking per subscriber, valid until December 2016. The booking has to be made by March 31, 2016 and the date of travel must be between today and December 2016. More information about the terms and conditions at Airbnb.com/smart.
Smart’s expansive mobile coverage across the country, coupled with the most innovative data packages such as Big Bytes 50 – which offers 350MB of data plus 600MB FREE access to iflix, FOX via Viewstream, and SPINNR valid for three days – will allow travelers to enjoy the Airbnb app and book their accommodations anytime, and wherever they may be in the country.

For more on the partnership between Smart and Airbnb, visit smart.com.ph/airbnb.

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Petron engine oils get product approvals

Oil industry leader Petron Corporation recently announced that it has received important product approvals for its engine oils from the American Petroleum Institute (API) and various original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). 


Petron Rev-X Premium Multi-grade engine oil is designed to surpass the demanding performance requirements of modern diesel engines including off-road vehicles, and can also be used for engines with exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) as well as turbo-charged and supercharged diesel engines. In recognition of its world-class quality, it recently received the following certifications:

1. API CI-4/SL Certification. The American Petroleum Institute – Engine Oil Licensing and Certification System (API-EOLCS) has granted permission for the use of the API Service Certification mark for Petron Rev-X Premium Multi-grade engine oil. This certifies that the product meets the stringent requirements of API CI-4/SL for modern, high-speed diesel engines, including off-road vehicles.

2. MTU Category 2 Approval. MTU Friedrichshafen GmbH, the world’s leading manufacturer of large diesel engines, has granted Category 2 approval for Petron Rev-X Premium Multi-grade engine oil, which is valid for use in all MTU engines (except Series 8000), as well as DDC engine series 2000/4000.
Volvo VDS 3 Approval. This qualifies Petron Rev-X Multi-grade engine oil as suitable for the most severe operating conditions and required specifications of Volvo diesel engines, including D12D and D9A Volvo truck engines.

3. Mack EO-N Approval. Petron Rev-X Multi-grade engine oil also has approval for Mack’s truck engines requiring Mack EO-N quality level.

4. Renault VI RLD-2 Approval. Petron Rev-X Multi-grade engine oil is also approved for Renault truck engines requiring Renault VI RLD-2 quality level.

5. At the same time, Petron Ultron Premium Multi-grade engine oil, which is formulated to meet the high performance requirement of most modern gasoline engine oils, also received permission to use the American Petroleum Institute (API) Service Certification mark. This certifies that Petron Ultron Premium Multi-grade engine oil meets the stringent requirements of API SL for gasoline engines in current and earlier passenger cars, sport utility vehicles, vans, and light-duty trucks.

Petron Corporation is the largest oil refining and marketing company in the country. It operates an integrated crude oil refinery and petrochemicals complex that processes crude oil into a full range of petroleum products. In addition, Petron runs a lube oil blending plant that produces engine oils and greases. The company exports various petroleum and non-fuel products to Asia-Pacific countries such as Japan, India, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Pakistan, and even the United Arab Emirates.

Tuesday, October 27, 2015

WATCH: James Reid & Nadine Lustre (JaDine) for 7-Eleven City Blends




The stars of the hit series on ABS-CBN's Primetime Bida, "On The Wings Of Love" is the newest face of 7-Eleven City Blends. James Reid and Nadine Lustre are on the hype of their career right now, due to their remarkable acting and supporters.

Today 7-Eleven Philippines proudly presents their newest endorsers, particularly City Blends, an honest to goodness quality of coffee that is available in all 7-Eleven branches nationwide.

Another surprise that they announced early today is the limited edition James and Nadine cups, which you can avail in every cup of coffee you want if you will avail as early as now.

For more information about the press launch happen at the Ascott Hotel, BGC Taguig City, you may watch and see the video I have taken earlier. Thank you :)





LIVESTREAMING: JaDine for 7-Eleven City Blends press launch



Live streaming video by Ustream

James Reid and Nadine Lustre (JaDine) once again sharing with us another treat, this time from 7-Eleven. Jadine will be endorsing the 7-Eleven City Blends, the coffee that you can have anytime, anywhere :)

We all know that 7-Eleven is in every corner of our country offering fresh and quality food. Once you get inside any 7-Eleven store, you can feel the warmth and welcoming ambiance, just like home.


7-Eleven City Blends is available fresh and hot, have a cup of coffee :)



Monday, October 26, 2015

Coca-Cola Collectors Club makes PH debut in 100th anniversary of the Contour Bottle

Coca-Cola Bottle Art Tour opens it's door to the Philippines (story HERE) and we all saw the area in which, Coca-Cola Collectors Club Philippines made their debut and brought the new members together to come face to face with about half a century worth of Coca-Cola-inspired art from names like Andy Warhol, Clive Baker, Peter Blake, and Norman Rockwell. Recognized just last January as the local chapter of Coca-Cola Collectors International, the Club currently has about 800 members.


Coca-Cola Collectors Club was originally founded in 1974 as a non-profit organization in Atlanta, Georgia, is devoted to all things Coca-Cola—from its history to collecting memorabilia. To date, it has over 46 chapters across the world with the biggest one being in Atlanta. The Coca-Cola Collectors Club Philippines is one of the active members all over the world.

Although The Coca-Cola Company does not sponsor the Club, we try to help with special projects and support their annual meeting. I am glad to meet the Philippine Club for the first time, see them enjoy the Bottle Art Tour, and share their plans to grow membership. The Club has become a great community of people with common interests, in as much as it has also been a regular venue to trade both items and stories,” says Ted Ryan, curator of the Bottle Art Tour and Director for Heritage Communications of The Coca-Cola Company.

Coca-Cola Collectors Club Philippines President Jay-Ar Mendoza said the Club began with just him and three other friends, who are avid fans of the brand. In 2014, they set-up a Facebook Group and started accepting people in until it became a very active community of individuals who love Coke history.

Not all of them are collectors,” says Jay-Ar, “but we constantly encourage them to start their own pool of tokens or souvenirs. In other countries, the collectors would really allot money for expensive items and participate in auctions--here it is not the case because of certain financial limits. Nonetheless the love for brand stands and we are just as passionate as the other collectors around the world,” says Mendoza.

Like any other organized club, last January 2015, they has meet-ups, formalize the organization, and be recognized by Coca-Cola Collectors Club International. But to start, Jay-Ar’s story with Coca-Cola began as far back as the early 90s, when the Always Coca-Cola Classic Commercial was still airing and neighborhood sari-sari stores served as very important trading points of two commodities: pogs and slammers.

Moreover, the four-piece Coca-Cola Truck Attack collectibles were also being traded and kids were clamoring for mini Coca-Cola bottles and their mini crates. From a small holding area, Jay-Ar slowly and methodically decked three walls with items, gathering trinkets from the countries he visited and occasionally getting some packages from his Atlanta-based parents.

His most-prized item in the collection was the Cebu bottling plant inauguration bottle that was produced in the 70s.

The future for Coca-Cola Collectors Club Philippines, as Jay-Ay says, is to be able to mount a local Coca-Cola Convention, complete with auctions, seminars, and swap meets.

For more information, checkout Coca-Cola Collectors Club Philippines on Facebook.

Sunday, October 25, 2015

GROHE Dual Tech Training Facility opens in Don Bosco Youth Center, Tondo Manila

Young people should learn or master a certain skills and experiences they need before they enter the world of work. Through this manufacturers and manpower help side by side and grow simultaneously and effectively in the industry. 

From 2009, one of the leading water fittings manufacturer, GROHE has cooperated with Don Bosco Mondo e.V. with a view to helping young people better their lives. To date some 780 young people in Mumbai, India, have been given the opportunity to start a new life as a result of this collaboration. 

Father Gaudencio Carandang,Jr. (Rector/TVET Director, Don Bosco)  Michael Mager (Executive Board, Grohe AG), Alpha Ang (General Manager, LWT/Grohe Philippines), Thomas Ossowski (German Ambassador to the Philippines), Father Anthony Paul Bicomong,  Provincial Superior - Don Bosco


Kerwin Tan (Account Manager, Projects), Alpha Ang (General Manager), Manfred Kuhn, Michael Mager, Alen Alban, Carlo Malantic, Joralyn Ong, Heide Lopez (Account Manager, Projects), Valerie Suspine (Account Manager, Projects), Mary Ann Rabonza (Specifications Manager)

Today, the success of GROHE Dual Tech aid project arrived and open its newest facility in the Philippine. Particularly in Don Bosco Youth Center, Tondo Manila. The said launch was attended by the GROHE authorities and Don Bosco School executives and students, supporters, media and bloggers.


A proven concept rolled out to a new location

Today is an important day for all of us,” said GROHE Management Board member Michael Mager on the occasion of the inauguration. “In the six years that have passed since we launched our partnership with Don Bosco Mondo e.V. in India, we have achieved a lot and learned a lot. Our work has borne fruit and demand for our trained and skilled plumbers is huge. We now want to continue this strategy in the Philippines and offer apprenticeships to the young people of Manila-Tondo to give them a genuine chance to earn a living from skilled work. At the same time, our local partners will benefit from the availability of professionally trained plumbers.”

The inauguration ceremony, during which the building was blessed and a ribbon cut, was organised jointly by the Salesians of Don Bosco and GROHE together with apprentices from other disciplines of the Don Bosco Youth Center in Manila-Tondo. Besides the new Plumber Training Programme, the Center already offers apprenticeships in other fields, from mechanical and electrical engineering to accounting, home economics and hospitality, as well as milling, turning and welding. The ceremony was attended by guests from the local business and academic communities as well as the German Ambassador, Thomas Ossowski, and representatives of the German Chamber of Foreign Trade.

Thomas Ossowski (German Ambassador to the Philippines),  Father Anthony Paul Bicomong (Provincial Superior - Don Bosco), Michael Mager (Executive Board, Grohe AG), Father Gaudencio Carandang,Jr. (Rector/TVET Director, Don Bosco), Suzanne Franke (Manager, Corporate Cooperation, Don Bosco Mondo)


Grohe Showroom

Alen Alban (Country Manager, LWT/Grohe Phils), Father Edwin Ulanday (Provincial Economer, Don Bosco)


The way to independence

The project aims to enhance the professionalism of the local plumbing trade. To achieve this, GROHE Dual Tech offers a high-quality training programme leading up to NC II qualification. The programme not only supports the apprentices but also addresses the lack of skilled labour while at the same time helping to advance the industry. Direct cooperation with local companies helps young people find employment right after finishing their training, making their future more secure.

Says Christian Osterhaus, Managing Director of Don Bosco Mondo: “We are happy to offer these new training programmes in Manila-Tondo, a place that is known throughout the world for poverty and adverse living conditions. We give young people the chance to train and enhance their skills in order to compete successfully in the local labour market, to earn their living and to become active members of society.

The programmes of GROHE Dual Tech in the Philippines are targeted at socially disadvantaged people aged 17 to 25 who are unable to obtain vocational training otherwise. Courses start twice a year with some 30 participants each and comprise a 12-month apprenticeship at the Training Center including a 6-week internship at a GROHE partner company. Thanks to their widely recognised graduation certificates, the young plumbers are not confined to the partner companies after finishing their training but can apply for a job with any other firm. 

Assured quality of training

Besides the annual programmes, GROHE Dual Tech offers short-term training courses for assistant plumbers as well as further training courses comprising customised modules for young employees of construction and plumbing companies. “Train-the-trainer” courses and other targeted measures are organised to assure the quality of these courses. Participating companies benefit from regular visits by GROHE field representatives providing face-to-face advice and support as well as GROHE materials and training aids.


GROHE Dual Tech is a develoPPP.de project. The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) fosters the involvement of the private sector at the point where business opportunities and development policy initiatives intersect. The programme is put into practice by Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft (DEG) on behalf of the BMZ. DEG promotes business initiatives in developing and emerging countries and finances sustainable investments.


Saturday, October 24, 2015

Get More TOTAL EXCELLIUM with Every Gas-Up!

TOTAL, a global energy leader, has introduced its flagship fuel product to the Philippine market, TOTAL EXCELLIUM. This product is developed in TOTAL’s European laboratories, where meticulous research and development has led to the combination of three essential advantages in one efficient formula.


TOTAL EXCELLIUM Diesel is fast becoming the favorite fuel of practical, environment-conscious Filipino drivers. TOTAL EXCELLIUM DIESEL is a premium fuel product developed under European Union specifications and infused with proprietary additives that deliver the Total Ecosolutions Advantage. Each drop of TOTAL EXCELLIUM ensures a clean, efficient engine, fuel economy, and less harmful CO2 emissions for an unforgettable driving experience.

From October 12 to November 22, 2015, every P1,200 single-receipt purchase of TOTAL EXCELLIUM Diesel in participating Service Stations entitles the customer to a P100 TOTAL EXCELLIUM cash coupon. This is a great opportunity for diesel customers to experiment with the amazing benefits of a premium product at a lower cost!



The P100 TOTAL EXCELLIUM Diesel vouchers (presented with official receipt) can be redeemed at the TOTAL Service Stations where the fuel purchase was made, and are valid until November 22, 2015. Customers can combine up to five (5) cash coupons per transaction. 


Gatorade announces line-up of ambassadors

The world's favorite sports drinks Gatorade recently celebrates 50th anniversary and today they announces the powerhouse line-up of ambassadors. Gatorade's ambassadors includes top local athletes of this generation.























Let us start from the women of UAAP volleyball, superstar Alyssa Valdez of Ateneo Lady Eagles and Mika Reyes of De La Salle Lady Spikers. The ladies will be join by the basketball hotties, Chris Banchero of Alaska Acers and Jeron Teng of De La Salle Green Archers.

Media had a day and experienced the athletes training by having a one round crossfit training happen at the Gatorade Hoops Gym located at Shaw Boulevard, Madaluyong City. We all did have a fun day with the ambassadors as our coaches, lots of prizes and of course enjoying the sport drink Gatorade, specifically their newest flavor "White Lightning".

"Coming from our 50th anniversary wherein we celebrated Gatorades's legacy of fueling local and international sport's greatest moments, we now want to focus on empowering a new breed of athletes and game changers" Pepsico Philippines Marketing Manager for Hydration Tony Atayde said.


Friday, October 23, 2015

Conlins Coffee Company and certified coffee Q grader Eric Lim for better understanding about beverage

From time to time, I am sharing a lot of coffee finds to my readers because I am a self-confessed addicted to coffee. I am having coffee and went to coffee shops, but I admit that I still have lacked on a deeper appreciation and understanding of the beverage. Today another coffee and learning about it, is about to tell and share.


The COO of Conlins Coffee Company and certified coffee Q grader, Mr. Eric Lim has shared so many things about coffee and its preparation. Conlins Coffee Company is the first of its kind to introduce the concept of “premium coffee” in the Philippines. 

It is known that not all coffee is the same, it differs from the place it originates, the type of preparations and in how long it has been contact with water. There’s a lot more to coffee than what meets the eye. 

Before, the concept of coffee was very basic, you had instant coffee, you had brewed coffee,” said Lim. 



Conlins Coffee Company is a full-service coffee company that offers roasted coffee beans, ground coffee, and customized blends with use of beans sourced from all over the world. Aside from their coffee line, the company is also the exclusive retailer of world-class coffee equipment in the country.

Last Thursday November 20, I was one of the bloggers who was invited to learn and experience the fun behind every cup of coffee. Conlins Coffee Company leaded by Q grader Lim, discussed first about the origins, types, kinds and preparations of coffee, which was happen at Alessi branch at Bonifacio High Street, BGC Taguig City.

Mr. Lim also introduces and teach how to their products like the Bluenotes and Artisans, with a "premium coffee" taste.

Bluenotes and Artisans Coffees: Helping understand the beverage

Bluenotes coffee offers 100% single-origin Arabica beans.  Each origin of coffee has something unique to offer; coffee from Sumatra gives a very different cup profile from coffees originating from Brazil or Ethiopia. The origin of your coffee is only one of the many aspects that affect the coffee’s flavor profile.” explains Lim. Go-getters and jet-setters will go for Bluenotes and its “taste of the world,” as it offers an excellent, straightforward taste of coffee

Artisans coffee is about the art and science of how coffee is crafted. This line of coffee allows the master roaster to create and meld flavors of varying origins into a very satisfying cup and it is all about taking different coffee elements and creating a masterful coffee experience. Preferred by coffee aficionados who are immersed in the worlds of lifestyle and the arts.

Serenity Syrups: Inspiring freedom and creativity

Serenity Syrups, on the other hand, is about having the freedom to have what you want. “The syrup is there to enhance the coffee experience,” explained Lim. Not only that the syrup can also be incorporated with your cookies, sodas and more. Lim also said that using Serenity “is all part of finding your own flair to classic favorites.”


Three complementary products

These three products all work together, and are complementary. Bluenotes is pure, and has a single origin; Artisan is blended, and possesses a craft science; Serenity on the other hand, is about adding flair. These products are all part of the journey of finding a coffee they can call their own, according to Lim.

Conlins Coffee Company: Giving people choices and experience

Aside from helping people appreciate and find a deeper understanding of coffee, Conlins Coffee Company has also always been about giving people options. “I want to make sure that if you want light, medium, dark coffee, or whatever origin you want, it’s available here,” said Lim. 

Their company offers over 20 varieties of origins available from around the world, and of course, also offers the blended coffees. “You’ll surely find at least one that you like here,” said Lim. “Each coffee also speaks to each individual; he added that it’s in finding the coffee that is right for you. It’s about finding your voice, in a world of coffee,” he added.

Eric also said that Conlins wants customers to experience coffee. He added that their company also keeps up with the trends around the world. “We want our customers to understand what they drink, before they really appreciate it,” Eric explained. They do this, he said, but they don’t impose. Their company wants customers to appreciate specialty coffee. “I think a big part of it is in educating people,” he said.

First ISO-certified coffee company, with passion

When it comes to food safety, Conlins is also the first coffee company in the country to be ISO-certified. Aside from having the largest variety of coffee, they make sure that the quality of the coffee is always consistent.

They also work with a variety of people, from commercial to retail, to coffee aficionados. Their company, including every member of their staff is very passionate about coffee. They also make sure that every member of their staff is equipped with the knowledge on their products. “We want to have a dialogue with people, and educate them, so that hopefully more will understand and appreciate coffee,” Eric explained. “We also intend for people to savor their coffee as they drink, and appreciate it.” 

After that afternoon, I appreciate more about drinking, preparing and all in all about coffee. Now I will enjoy more very sip that I had with my coffee prepared by no other than me!!


ASUS Zen AiO Pro with pre-installed Microsoft Windows 10

ASUS Philippines recently revealed the 23.8-inch Zen AiO Pro Z240IC, the first models in the incredible new Zen AiO Pro Series, a premium range of all-in-one PCs that fuse art with industry-leading technology. Zen AiO Pro provides a perfect balance of beauty and performance for the ultimate all-in-one computing experience.



Featuring a stunningly-elegant all-aluminum design, Zen AiO Pro looks amazing. But the beauty is not just skin-deep, with superb performance delivered by 6th-generation Intel® Core™ i7 processor and gaming-grade NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX™ 960M graphics with up to 4GB of video memory. Other leading-edge technology showcased in the Zen AiO Pro Series includes the latest USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C port, up to PCIe® 3.0 x4 M.2 SSD storage.
For truly-immersive family entertainment, both new Zen AiO Pro models are equipped with a powerful six-speaker ASUS SonicMaster Premium sound system that delivers 16W of incredibly rich and clear stereo sound.
Zen AiO Pro deserves to be the computing centerpiece of any home or creative workspace, with full connectivity across all devices allowing it to become the ultimate digital hub for work or play.
  
A true masterpiece
Zen AiO Pro is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and design, with a slim and elegant unibody shell forged from a solid block of anodized-aluminum, with a precision-crafted matching integral stand. The smooth, sophisticated appearance is enhanced by a layer of edge-to-edge glass covering the display, and the rear cover has a beautiful fine brushed-metal finish that perfectly complements the signature spun-metal Zen-inspired concentric circles on the front fascia.
Zen AiO Pro is a vision of elegance, finished in a stylish yet subtle Icicle Gold color that will add a touch of beauty to any space.

Extreme beauty, extreme performance
The extraordinary Zen AiO Pro is built to provide out-of-the-ordinary performance for discerning home users. Using the latest generation of quad-core Intel Core up to i7 processors, combined with 16GB of the very latest DDR4 memory and lightning-fast up to PCIe® 3.0 x4 M.2 SSD storage, Zen AiO Pro has power to spare for instant responsiveness and ultra-smooth and immersive entertainment.
Dedicated NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX™ 960 gaming-grade graphics with up to a class-leading 4GB of video memory ensure users can enjoy superb stutter-free high-resolution movies and videos in vivid, lifelike colors, or play even the very latest games at full resolution with high quality settings.
  
Zen AiO Pro is the world’s first all-in-one PC to use the next-generation USB 3.1 Gen 2, which delivers blindingly-fast data transfers of up to 10Gbit/s —twice as fast as USB 3.0, and over twenty times faster than USB 2.0. With these speeds, even the biggest data transfers take no time at all. Zen AiO Pro uses the latest USB 3.1 Type-C connector for improved ease of use — the connector is reversible, so it can’t be inserted the wrong way round. And for all-device connectivity, Zen AiO Pro also has a full complement of 4 USB 3.0 ports plus a USB 2.0 port, along with the latest ultra-fast 802.11ac Wi-Fi.

Incredible sound, awesome entertainment
Zen AiO Pro is designed for the ultimate multimedia entertainment, with up to a stunning FHD 10-point multi-touch IPS display for vibrant, pin-sharp visuals that make every detail visible, along with wide viewing angles and ultra-responsive touch interactivity. Zen AiO Pro also has a color gamut of up to 100% sRGB, which ensures accurate, rich and vivid color reproduction.
The incredible audio system has a total of 6 speakers that deliver rich and clear full-range sound. Each 8-watt stereo channel uses three powerful speakers located at either side of Zen AiO Pro, giving fully-realistic stereo separation and a total of 16 watts of pure, undistorted sound for an amazingly-lifelike experience.

The state-of-the-art technology in Zen AiO Pro ensures an awesome entertainment experience, whether users are watching the latest blockbuster movie, enjoying games or simply relaxing with music.

 Specifications:
Z240ICGT
CPU
 i7-6700T
GPU
GTX 960M 4G DDR5
Storage
2.5" SATA HDD 1TB (5400RPM, 9.5mm)
M.2 SATA SSD 128G
RAM
DDR4 2133MHz, 8G *2
Screen
23.8” Full HD 1920x1080 LED-backlit
OS
Windows 10 (64bit)
WiFi
 802.11bgn+Bluetooth 4.0 (Single band)
USB Port
1 x USB3.1 (Type-C)

4 x USB3.0

1 x USB2.0

2 x HDMI-out

1 x Microphone

1 x Headphone

1 x 2-in-1 card reader

1x Power Input

1x LAN

1x Kensington lock slot
Dimensions
585(W) x 434(H) x 52~190(D) mm
SRP
Php 97,995