life in style

Cool, clean Christmas fun for the whole barkada with C2 1.5 Litro

2011-12-19T23:07:00.000-08:00

December means Christmas and the much-awaited Christmas vacation. It’s time to take a break from projects and deadlines and embark on good times with friends -- from going on adventurous road trips, chilling in a mall or discovering new favorite hang-outs. What better way to complement great holiday moments than with a refreshing and healthy bottle of C2 1.5 Litro that the whole barkada can share?

Yearning for a quick and easy Yuletide trip with friends? Explore nearby places like Tagaytay. Pack some tasty snacks and and C2 1.5 Litro, which is so convenient to tote along. Everyone can enjoy a glass of invigorating green tea while sharing stories and hearty laughs. With Apple and Lemon flavors that tickle the taste buds, C2 1.5 Litro will surely give you and your friends a merry Christmas get-together.

If you’re a clique of nature lovers and explorers, go on an exhilarating hike to the majestic peak of Mt. Makiling, walk the leafy trails of Subic Bay Forest Reserve, or explore the soft sands of Pampanga’s precious hidden beaches like Anawangin Cove to camp out. Chill out and lay back after a long day of outdoor fun with a bottle of C2 1.5 Litro for the whole group.

And if your barkada wants to hike up the fun and excitement this Christmas, head to Tagaytay and dare to try the zipline! Remember to bring a bottle of C2 1.5 Litro for that energizing boost of green tea goodness.

With pocket-friendly prices and a whole liter of green tea goodness to share, C2 1.5 itro is guaranteed to make your Christmasbarkada trip the most refreshing day-out. Best of all, C2 is brewed from 100% natural green tea leaves and bottled on the same day so you get all the health benefits, quality and freshness of green tea. For cool and clean Christmas bonding with friends, take a bottle of C2 1.5 Litro and experience refreshing fun for the whole barkada.

Make A Statement with Unique Gifts from LRI Design Plaza

2011-12-11T21:34:00.000-08:00

If you want to leave a lasting impression with your holiday gifts, give statement pieces that would be cherished beyond the yuletide season. For great finds, there are choices aplenty at LRI DESIGN PLAZA, the urban design hub. LRI Design Plaza houses a range of shops offering an array of items from world-class furniture and furnishings to valuable artworks, and antique pieces. Its latest addition to the roster of premium shops, where you can find unique gift ideas, are EclecticLiving, a showroom of classic furniture and furnishings with a twist; Sifra, a vintage home interiors store; Abundance, which offers modern home interiors; and Domicillo, a store that specializes in local crafts.

Christmas home decors

Beautiful holiday home decors are always welcome gifts.Choose from among Eclectic Living’s latest collection of Christmas wreaths, carpets and throw pillows in vibrant colors. “Our products are both uniquely designed and produced,” explains Joby Belmonte, one of the owners of Eclectic Living. “We have a lot of custom-made furniture, soft furnishings, lamps and artworks that are rare finds.”

But if your loved one goes more for vintage and the exotic, visit Sifra, which offersa rangeof unique items imported from India, Vietnam, and Thailand. Designer and owner Conrad Adamos recommends the shop’s bestselling items as gifts, “Ideal gifts for men include our A-Z stainless bookends, vintage mini cars, wine holders, and ash trays. And for women, we have imported ceramic figurines, accessory hangers, photo frames, floral chest boxes and an assortment of wall hang prints, which are both feminine and have an antique appeal.”

And if you’re looking for presents with more distinctive, contemporary Asian look,go for Abundance’s vases, lamps, and trays, as well as limited-edition accessories in geometric designs and neutral colors. According to Leo Almeria, who co-owns and operates the shop with fellow interior designers, “We all love choosing home accessories and furnishings that are modern and trendy, yet have a classic appeal. Our products are functional and very versatile.”

One-of-a-kind Pinoy crafts

InDomicillo, you can find a selection of premiumlocally-produced crafts. Gifts to consider are the shop’s award-winning mirrors adorned with mother of pearl, elegant jewelry boxes, accessories, and other displays etched from stones or pearls. “Gifts from Domicillo are always appreciated by those who love the finer things in life - luxurious items that you will not just find anywhere else,” says owner Rene Alcala. “If you own a piece of our crafts, you can be sure you are the only one in possession of that design.”

For this year’s Christmas shopping spree, visit LRI Design Plaza at 210 Nicanor Garcia Street, Bel-Air II, Makati City. For more details, please call 895-1772; 895-5470 or (0922) 857-2559.

Feel the Christmas spirit with Jollibee’s limited edition Coca-Cola Christmas tumblers

2011-12-11T21:11:00.000-08:00

Get into the Yuletide vibe with your friends and loved ones with the limited edition Coca-Cola Christmas Tumblers available exclusively at Jollibee.

From December 1 to 14, every single receipt purchase of any Jollibee Value Meal with three Go Large softdrinks entitles you to a free specially-designed Coca-Cola Christmas tumbler. Just by adding P16 for every Go Large, you can already choose between two cool hip designs – the Contour Bottle design and Fizz Design

So hurry and head to the nearest Jollibee store now! Get your favorite langhap-sarap meal at Jollibee with your favorite upsized Coca-Cola drinks and say cheers for another joyful Christmas season with these cool Christmas tumblers!

Dance to the new adventure of Happy Feet 2 with Jollibee’s Ice Funcapes

2011-12-06T18:17:00.000-08:00

Mumble and his gang of tap-dancing penguins are back and Jollibee is letting kids join in the Antarctic fun with the Happy Feet 2, Ice Funscapes -the first collect and connect Jollibee Kids Meal toys.

Fly, swim, climb, and glide with your favorite Happy Feet 2 characters. There are four toys to choose from-- Jumpin’ Diving Ramon, Erik’s Penguin Pool, Sven’s Super Climber, and Mumble’s Swerve N’ Slide.

Jumpin’ Diving Ramon launches “the Amigos” lead penguin up in the air by placing him on the launcher platform and pressing the ice button. Erik’s Penguin Pool lets you rotate the knob and make Mumble’s son swim across the pool. Press the lever on the side of Sven’s Super Climber that leads Mighty Sven to the top of the trail. And watch everybody’s favorite dancing penguin glide in Mumble’s Swerve N’ Slide. Go on the coolest adventures with your favorite Happy Feet 2 character, or complete the fun on ice by collecting and connecting all four.

Be the first of your friends to complete the set! Happy Feet 2 Ice Funscapes collectibles are available with every order of the following Jollibee Kids Meals:

Yumburger (P80), Jollibee Spaghetti (P88), 4-Piece Chicken Nuggets Crunchers (P98), and 1-piece Chickenjoy (P103). Happy Feet 2 opens in cinemas nationwide on November 23. Promo runs from November 11 to December 10, 2011.

TOMS Give Fair on December 04, 2011

2011-12-01T01:19:00.000-08:00

Let's all get together for the TOMS GIVE FAIR on December 4, Sunday at 10am-4pm at the Trinoma Park, 4th Level,Trinoma Mall. Do some Holiday shopping at the first-ever TOMS Pop-Store in the country and, treat yourself to all the wonderful activities TOMS has lined up for you to enjoy a fun-filled family friendly day. It's their way of saying thank you and getting everyone into the Holiday Giving Spirit. Give Joy, Give TOMS.

For participation, please RSVP:
ONLINE
or thru GeiserMaclang c/o:
Alma Buenviaje
Mobile: 09188344624,
E-mail at events@geisermaclang.com

New dynamic duo Mikey Bustos and Chicharron ni Mang Juan mixes tradition with modern taste

2011-12-01T00:22:00.000-08:00

In a press conference recently held at Bar One in Holiday Inn Galleria Suites, Fil-Canadian Youtube sensation Mikey Bustos was introduced as the face of Universal Robina Corporation’s (URC) newest snack brand, Jack ‘n Jill’s Chicharron ni Mang Juan. A triple threat in the online entertainment scene through his YouTube channel Mikey Bustos Daily Videos, Mikey sings, acts and does comedy with the ease of a natural-born performer.

He first captivated Filipino audiences all over the world with his online “Pinoy tutorials”, in which he shares his quirky observations on aspects of Filipino life¾from distinct Filipino accents to local courtship customs. His string of viral hits paved the way for internet celebrity status, with him gaining thousands of followers and fans on all his YouTube, Facebook and Twitter accounts. Today, he brings his spicy humor and trademark Pinoy charm to Philippine showbiz as the product endorser for Jack ‘n Jill’s Chicharron ni Mang Juan.

“A product like Chicharron ni Mang Juan calls for an endorser who is just as innovative and dynamic in his craft, but embodying the well-loved Filipino values that give life to our country and culture,” says Vice President for URC Snack Foods Teree Eugenio Jr. during the press conference. “URC warmly welcomed me into the family,” shares Mikey.

He attributes his growing local success to the support of his Pinoy fans: “I think my ability to connect with my inner Filipino -- and be proud of it -- and putting it out there on an international media like YouTube really caused Filipinos worldwide to identify and really embrace the tutorials and me.” Chicharron ni Mang Juan has truly found its perfect match in Mikey as they both embody that old school Pinoy quality with a modern twist. And just like Chicharron ni Mang Juan, Mikey Bustos’ brand of entertainment always leaves Pinoy fans wanting more. The “no pork” chicharron, Chicharron ni Mang Juan is available in three exciting, uniquely Pinoy flavors—Espesyal Sukang Paombong, Espesyal Suka’t Sili and Spicy Sisig.

Keep your heart healthy with C2 Green Tea Sugar-free

2011-11-23T17:11:00.001-08:00

The increasing demands of today’s fast-paced lifestyles may have increased the risk of developing heart ailments among Filipinos. According to cardiologist Dr. Norberto Tuaño, many risk factors can cause heart disease with poor lifestyle choices like smoking, drinking alcoholic beverages, the lack of exercise and unhealthy diets still as the more common causes. But such ailments can also arise because of free radicals that come from exposure to harmful and stressful environments.

“Free radicals that arise from pollution or poor lifestyle habits can cause injury to cell walls of the arteries, and can lead to arteriosclerosis and other heart diseases. Antioxidants which can be derived from vitamins, green tea and other sources, can combat the harmful effects that free radicals have on the heart,” he said. A rich source of antioxidants, green tea is a potent drink to help reduce the impact of free radicals to the body. The health-giving beverage contains powerful antioxidants like catechins and Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) that can help prevent many diseases, from cancer, diabetes to various heart illnesses.

Dr. Tuaño encourages Filipinos to replenish their antioxidant stores by eating a healthy diet that includes antioxidant-rich food and drinks like green tea. “Taking green tea that has antioxidants and combining it with positive lifestyle changes such as proper diet and exercise can help prevent cardiovascular diseases,” he stressed.

Helping Filipinos protect their heart and achieve a sound well-being is C2 Sugar-free Green Tea. With absolutely zero sugar, C2 Sugar-free has the right ingredients to help lessen the risk of heart disease. Made from 100% natural green tea leaves of Camellia sinensis, C2 Sugar-free Green Tea offers the health-giving goodness of antioxidants coupled with refreshing flavors that Pinoys have come to love. C2 Sugar-free is available in 355ml and 1.5L sizes in Apple flavor at all leading supermarkets, groceries andsari-sari stores nationwide.

Nike Zoom KD IV provides versatile performance through the perfect fit

2011-11-23T17:08:00.001-08:00

Launching December 3, the Nike Zoom KD IV features the new Adaptive Fit system, Hyperfuse construction and a Zoom Air unit – a versatile combination for one of basketball’s most electric players.

The Nike Zoom KD IV was built to the exact specifications of Durant, who is closely involved in the design process with Nike Basketball Footwear Design Director Leo Chang. Chang has led the design for all four of Durant’s Nike signature shoes since 2008. Incorporated for the first time in a basketball shoe, the new Adaptive Fit system provides a lock-down fit with a synthetic strap that wraps up from the inside of the upper and integrates with the laces for superior fit and lateral support.

The Hyperfuse construction on the upper is a composite of three different layers of material that are fused together using a pressing process to create a nearly seamless, one-piece upper that is lightweight, breathable and durable. Furthermore, the Nike Zoom unit in the forefoot provides lightweight, low-profile and responsive cushioning. Lastly, a low collar design provides optimal support and flexibility through the ankle and makes this a versatile shoe for multiple positions on the court.

As Kevin evolves as a basketball player so do his shoes. “First and foremost my shoe needs to be comfortable - it felt like I had been playing with them the whole season. The Adaptive Fit system is a customized feel and locks me in,” said Durant.

Designed with direct insights from Kevin Durant and his lineage, the Nike Zoom KD IV pays tribute to his team and family with details incorporated into the outsole including a lightning bolt traction pattern representing KD’s team and “Big Chucky” on the heel which pays tribute to KD’s late childhood mentor and coach. The initials “WP” in the shape of a heart on each toe represent Kevin’s parents and “Barbara” is his grandmother’s name. Personal messages as “Work Hard” and “Stay Focused” are printed also on the outsole.

The Nike Zoom KD IV launches on December 1, 2011 in select Nike stores nationwide. The KD IV will retail at Php4,795.00.

Yahoo! Philippines celebrates Purle Hunt Family Edition Finale

2011-11-23T16:59:00.001-08:00

Yahoo! transformedthe SM Mall of Asia Music Hall into a life-size board game for the Purple HuntFamily Edition finale last Friday, November 18, 2011. Over 400 people came tojoin in on the fun and games

Thetop three (3) families took center stage with the beautiful Chloe McCully, the2011 Miss World Philippines’ 2^nd Princess

Purple Hunt FamilyEdition winners, Carolyn M. Beronilla and Catherine Ester Beronilla.

Winners walk away with P2.2 million Family Home

MANILA, 22 November 2011 – A grand celebration at Manila’s SM Mall of Asia on Friday, marked an end to Yahoo! Philippines’ five-week online adventure – the Purple Hunt Family Edition 3.0 – which saw the mother-daughter team of Carolyn M. Beronilla and Catherine Ester Beronilla from Las Piñas, walk away with the coveted prize of a P 2.2 million condo by Camella Homes.

Hosted by Chloe McCulley, the 2011 Miss World Philippines 2nd Princess, the event attracted over 400 Filipinos to take part in daylong activities that involved live music performance from the popular rock band, The Dawn, games and interactive contests.

In the build up to the grand finale, Purple Hunters took away exciting prizes such as Globe Tattoo prepaid broadband sticks, flight tickets to Bacolod, Iloilo, Cebu, Busuanga, Cagayan de Oro and Singapore from Airphil Express, McDonald’s birthday party packages, MyPhone mobile phones and Yahoo! giveaways.

Family contestants competed head-to-head in six challenges: Yahoo! bring me, Multiple choice game, Y! Hunt, Draw your Avatar, Longest Yodel and Waveplay to reach the final round of elimination: All in the Family. The three finalists were asked to visit the condo model unit and posed a series of questions based on what was inside.

The Beronilla family, the last team standing, was announced the winner amidst a blast of confetti, thunderous applause and congratulatory wishes from Arlene Amarante, the Country Ambassador for Yahoo! Philippines and members of the sponsoring organizations including, Camella Homes, Globe Telecom, Mc Donalds, Air Phil Express and MyPhone mobile phones.

“Tonight we celebrate the finale of yet another successful Yahoo! Purple Hunt, an initiative that connects Filipinos with one another, engaging their passions and interests and ultimately, making a positive contribution to society,” said Ms Amarante.

She added, “Of the 22 million Internet users in the Philippines, 91% are Yahoo! users and use our products and properties daily – whether it is to bring down the communication barrier, to search and share information, expand their horizons and connect with the world. The Purple Hunt campaign links Yahoo!’s brand promise to transform the lives of people through simple, trusted, best-in-class products, content, tools, and services that help our users make the most of the digital world.”

The online adventure, now in its third year, was launched for the whole family in October.

With neither a map nor a compass required, Purple Hunters simply needed log onto http://purplehunt.com.ph to unlock online clues, discover interesting insights about the web using various Yahoo! properties and spend quality time bonding. The campaign also brought awareness about Internet safety by promoting responsible use of the Internet and appropriate netiquette.

LG Continues to Enrich Lives with Thoughtful Innovations

2011-11-23T16:47:00.001-08:00

More than just Electronics, LG is about making life good for Filipinos throughout the country

METRO MANILA, November 2011 – Continuing to build on the momentum from last year, LG’s LGHere4U roving caravan is on the road again, wowing Filipinos with its fully outfitted caravan of LG’s latest and complete range of home appliances and electronics. Guests visited by the grand exhibit availed of free activities such as washing a full load of laundry even catching their favourite movies on the latest LG Cinema 3D TV.

“The successful impact that our Caravan made last year has spurred us to take things to the next level by offering voluntary services such as free medical services, green habit seminars, educational movie screenings, free repairs on appliances, tree-planting activities and a community talent show” said Head of Corporate Marketing Karen Capellan.

Aiming to be the world best in enriching lives through innovation, LG’s LGHere4U roving caravan has taken its products to communities to let people experience reliable and innovative products that Filipinos truly deserve.

Capellan adds, “At LG, we make products that not only enhance people’s lives, but positively impact the world around us. Our dedication to the environment starts with our range of energy-saving appliances to give Filipinos more savings”

Care to experience Life’s Good with LG? Watch out for the next stop in Lucena City , Legaspi and Naga. The LG caravan, rolled out earlier this year, has already visited communities in Visayas, Mindanao and South Luzon areas.

Run BGC 2011 with Flag Football Takes You to Australia

2011-11-10T18:59:00.001-08:00

Bonifacio Global City (BGC) fuels anew the passion for running with its “Run BGC 2011: A Level Higher” on November 27, 2011. Taking it a notch higher is the integration of Flag Football in the race.

Known as the home of passionate minds, BGC is also recognized as the ‘Run Capital’ of the country. It is the most preferred venue of running enthusiasts and those who embrace an active lifestyle.

Run BGC 2011 in celebration of Bonifacio Day marks its 3rd year. Run BGC embodies the power of a passion fulfilled. BGC believes that runners’ key capacities such as the willpower to push even farther, the ability to apply effort even during fatigue, and the acceptance of pain — have radiating power that subtly influences attitudes in life. The passions within us can take us to places, allow us to achieve beyond expectations, bring new experiences and lead us to living happier, healthier lives. That’s the power of passion that Bonifacio Global City believes in.

In this year’s BGC’s very own marathon, participants can choose from 5 race categories, namely: 3km, 3km with flag football, 5km, 5km with flag football, and 10km.

Runners of 3km and 5km with Flag Football

Making this year’s Run BGC a level higher is the category of Flag Football. Apart from the straight run race, this category starts with a run, then moves to an individual play of catching a football while defending flags and shifts back to a run to the finish line.

Basically, the runner gets into the football zone within the 3km and 5km stretch to catch the ball and defend his flags. Once inside the football zone, the runner gets fitted with a flagbelt and is cued up in designated lane. A quarterback then gives the runner the go signal to sprint to the 5-yard marker.

The runner should then quickly turn back to catch the ball from the quarterback and should do so while defending the flags fastened to him/her from the defenders. The runner should have both the ball and flags before sprinting to the end zone. Upon reaching the football’s end zone, he then sprints back to the starting area with his flags and football to finish the course where marshals await runners for sendoff to continue his race to the finish.

Prizes at Stake & Extra Fun

All runners who have completely registered and finished the race in any distance categories are entitled to join the raffle. Grand prize at stake is a trip for two to Australia on a 4days-3nights tour package any time within 2012.

The winner can also join any of the Australian-based marathon or fun run: The Sydney City to Surf 2012; Gold Coast Airport Marathon & Half Marathon; or The Great Ocean Road International Marathon. Prize is convertible to cash but non-transferrable.

Cash prizes and medals also await the first three placers of each race category.

Like in previous Run BGC events, sponsors will be setting up booths for their own activities such as product sampling, sale, and fun games.

Powered by today’s most-sought running mentor and race director Coach Rio, Run BGC is also made possible with the support of RunRio, Runnr, Sportsmedia, BLFC, Planet Sports, The Athlete’s Foot, Toby’s Sports, Powerade, Viva Mineral Water, Soleus and Hero Channel.

Run Safe at BGC

BGC’s passion springs from the welfare of the people it lends its service to such that Run BGC participants are assured of their safety during the event. Security and race escorts will be present. Drinking water and Medical aid will be provided along the race routes. Comfort cubicles will also be in placed. Further assisting the participants to secure their things, a baggage deposit service will also be made available from 4:30am to 9:00am near the stage.

Register Now and See You at Run BGC

Registration is ongoing until November 20 at Toby’s/Runnr (Level 1 Shangri-La Plaza; Bldg. B3 Bonifacio High Street; G/F SM Mall of Asia), Planet Sports (2/F Trinoma Mall; 2/F Glorietta3), and at The Athlete’s Foot (3/F Robinson’s Galleria; 2/F Alabang Town Center).

Log on to www.bgc.com.ph and www.runrio.com for more details.

Get huge holiday savings by cutting your postpaid bill in half with Smart All-Net

2011-11-10T18:52:00.001-08:00

More practical and budget-saving options are in store for subscribers this Christmas and the whole year round with Smart’s new All-Net Talk and All-Net Text services that offer the lowest call and text rates to all networks in the country.

Smart postpaid subscribers can earn big as Smart All-Net Talk lets them cut their postpaid call charges in half with calls for P250 in 30 days for 80 minutes. This means all calls are at only P3.12 per minute to all networks, less than half the P7.50 standard call rates of other postpaid plans.

As for Smart All-Net Text, savvy subscribers are offered P350 per 30 days for 2500 texts, amounting to 83 texts per day. All-Net Texts are at P0.14/text to all networks, just a fraction of the standard P1 rate of other postpaid plans.

Whether subscribers prefer to text or voice out their holiday greetings to family and friends, they can enjoy ultra affordable connectivity by simply choosing the new All-Net services under their Smart All-In Postpaid Plans. The Smart All-In Postpaid Plan is the only mobile phone plan that offers the most value for money by combining all services in one convenient package without the “add-on” services that add extra charges on top of the monthly consumable.

Connecting with loved ones during the holiday seasons and throughout the year shouldn’t cost a lot. So give yourself the gift of huge savings and start reducing your monthly postpaid charges by half only with SMART All-Net Talk and All-Net Text. With all the savings subscribers can get all year long, every day is surely going to feel like a merry Christmas indeed.

Head on over to smart.com.ph for more details on how to register to SMART All-Net Talk and All-Net Text services.

Your lifetime kitchen essential

2011-11-10T18:47:00.001-08:00

METRO MANILA, November 2011 - The kitchen serves at the center of your home, a focal point where families start their day and where family and friends gather. An important kitchen essential is the refrigerator, without it, our culinary options to enjoy and store food would be limited. That’s why it is very important that the consumer will be wiser in choosing the perfect refrigerator for you and your family.

Based on the consumer survey, the important factor that consumer is looking for is the “Energy and Health Benefits” that a refrigerator can provide. LG has gone the extra mile in creating a unique core technology by putting the customer at the heart of the equation. With that, LG formulated the “Inverter Linear Compressor” which is proven to be energy compliant for bigger savings.

Inverter Linear Compressor is a unique direct transmission system which uses one friction point that minimizes mechanical loss, reduces noise and saves up to 41% of energy consumption. LG also offers a 10-yr warranty on its compressor because they are confident of its durability and stability. Technically speaking, “Linear” is the most efficient solution for achieving the benefits & minimizing annoying troubles caused by a compressor.

Aside from its energy efficiency, Inverter Linear compressor adjusts its cooling capacity which maintains a stable cooling temperature at an optimum level to keep your food’s freshness longer. It also comes in a real stainless finish adding a modern, simple and sophisticated look to the kitchen.

“LG is the first company in the world which has made a mass production of the Linear Compressor. With the success of launching the LG’s Inverter Linear Side by Side Refrigerators, I am proud to say that we are now the market leader for the Refrigerator Side by Side category based on GfK on August 2011” said Karen Capellan, Head of Corporate Marketing.

Get bitten by the Twilight fever with Jollibee’s Limited Edition Breaking Dawn tumblers

2011-11-08T23:15:00.000-08:00

The Twilight fever has started biting once again as the showing of Breaking Dawn Part 1, the second to the last movie of the phenomenal franchise, draws closer. Jollibee joins Twilight fanatics in anticipating this year’s most exciting blockbuster with Jollibee’s Limited Edition Breaking Dawn tumblers.

Starting November 3, ‘Twi-hards’ can choose from two hip tumbler designs: the Edward-Bella tumbler for the diehard Team Edward, and the Edward-Bella-Jacob tumbler for those who can’t get enough of the sizzling love triangle.

Make it the ultimate Breaking Dawn experience. Bite into the yummy goodness of your favorite Jollibee burger and sandwich value meals – Yum, Yum with Cheese, Yum w/ TLC, Champ, Hash Brown Burger, Jolly Hotdog Classic, Jolly Hotdog Regular, Crunchy Chicken Burger – and get a cool Jollibee Breaking Dawn tumbler just by adding P25. All Jollibee burger and sandwich value meals come with regular fries and soft drink.

Relive your favorite vampire romance with Jollibee. Jollibee Limited Edition Breaking Dawn tumblers are available in all Jollibee stores nationwide from November 3 to December 3, 2011 for dine-in, take-out, and drive-thru transactions only. Hurry and collect your Breaking Dawn tumblers now!

Enjoy a sweet break everyday with the new Jollibee Strawberry Sundae

2011-10-23T20:21:00.000-07:00

Exhausted from the never-ending meetings? Tired of running after numerous deadlines? Stress level already rising? If you’re a hardworking yuppie, give yourself a boost by squeezing in a well-deserved time-out. For a sweet and satisfying break, try the new Jollibee Strawberry Sundae, Jollibee’s newest addition to its line-up of delectable sundaes!

The Jollibee Strawberry Sundae has Jollibee’s signature creamy vanilla soft serve topped with rich strawberry syrup and delicious strawberry bits. For only P25, the Jollibee Strawberry Sundae is sure to keep those with a sweet tooth raving about the unique taste of this latest indulgent treat.

Take a breather from a hectic schedule or meet some of your friends for some quality bonding time by savoring the luscious blend of vanilla and strawberries. Whether enjoyed by yourself or in the company of Sundae makes a cool, delicious, new companion.

Whatever you do, remember to make your breaks deliciously satisfying. Add a sweet note to that busy day with the new Jollibee Strawberry Sundae and make everyday berry unforgettable.

Jollibee Strawberry Sundae is now available in all Jollibee branches nationwide for dine-in, drive-thru and take-out. For delivery, call Jollibee Express Delivery Service hotline at 8-7000 or log on to www.jollibeedelivery.com. friends, the new Jollibee Strawberry

LG Mobile gives you more reasons to celebrate the holidays

2011-10-19T19:18:00.000-07:00

Whether it’s the Optimus 3D or the Optimus Pro you’re pining for, LG Mobile has promos that’ll make everyone’s holiday season a merry occasion.

METRO MANILA – The holiday season is a time for gift-giving and merriment. It is a time to be generous, not just to others, but also with yourself. Perfect for the gift-giving season are LG mobile products that embody innovative technology, stylish design, and reliable user experience.

LG Mobile – a leader in the smartphone industry, has blazed a trail with products like the Optimus 3D – the world’s first full 3D Smartphone with tri-dual technology and the Optimus 2X – the world’s first dual core smartphone. LG Mobile is also credited for producing user-friendly and affordable mobile products like the Optimus Pro and Optimus Net – the latest Gingerbread smartphones from the Optimus line, as well as the more popular Optimus One, Optimus Me, Cookie and Wink models.

This season, LG Mobile gives you something to be excited about. Starting October 14 to December 4, 2011, LG is offering exciting promos for the Optimus 3D, Optimus Net, Optimus One, Optimus Black, Optimus Me, Cookie WiFi 2, and Wink WiFi 2 models.

For purchases of the listed phone models, customers get great price discounts and exciting freebies from LG Electronics Philippines, SM Cinemas, and SM Department Store.

For more details on our holiday offerings, check out the poster below.

PER DTI-NCR PERMIT NUMBER 8762, SERIES OF 2011

Chicken Madness with Jollibee’s Affordelicious promo

2011-10-10T18:30:00.000-07:00

Can’t get enough of chicken and prefer to enjoy it in several delicious ways a week? Here’s a treat that’s sure to whet your appetite. Jollibee, makers of Chickenjoyand other langhap-sarap chicken delights, gives you great savings on your chicken favorites with the latest Affordelicious promo.From now until October 28, Jollibee is offering its best-selling and favorite chicken treats like Chickenjoy, Chicken Barbecue, Crunchy Chicken Burger and Chicken Nugget Crunchers at more affordable prices from Mondays to Fridays.Get the all-time favorite crispylicious and juicylicious Chickenjoy or the delicious inside and out Jollibee Chicken Barbecue at P69 only for the 1-pc solo meal and P115 for the 2-pc solo meal, or the 1-pc or 2-pc value meals complete with softdrink for only P85 and P131, respectively.Want your chicken sandwich fix on the go? You can opt for the Crunchy Chicken Burger Value Meals for P45 with softdrink, or with a regular drink and Jolly Crispy fries at only P65. Made with 100% juicy, pure chicken fillet that’s seasoned with special spices and cooked to a perfect crisp, people on the go will surely experience a whole new crunch!And for a delicious, nutritious and fun treat, there’s the Jollibee Chicken Nugget Crunchers that’s made of seasoned tender chicken with carrot bits in golden yellow crunchy coating and fortified with Vitamin A. Enjoy the ‘good nuggets’ at discounted prices of only P89 for the Chicken Nugget Crunchers Rice value meal with softdrink, and P99 for the Fries value meal with softdrink.These great deals are available only on weekdays until October 28, so make the most out of these ‘affordelicious’ treats and head to your favorite Jollibee store now.

Budget-friendly tips for the Cebu Pacific traveler

2011-10-05T22:39:00.000-07:00

If you’re planning a vacation, preparing the itinerary and budgeting time and money wisely are of utmost importance. Exploring the country and the region becomes easier and more frequent with Cebu Pacific Air (CEB), especially if you’re a smart and budget-conscious traveler.Long trusted by Filipino and international travelers as the airline with low fares and innovative services, Cebu Pacific has these tips and services frequent fliers on a budget will appreciate:Take advantage of discounts. Travelers should always be on the lookout for bargains. From CEB’s promos and seat sales to hotel vouchers for sale online, great deals can be had just by planning and knowing what you need to book in advance. Use rewards points, and student, group or senior citizen discounts whenever possible too.Use free travel apps. Free and practical apps can help you maximize your vacation days. Google Maps saves you time and money by providing quick information on routes and landmarks. Ordering food or asking directions in foreign countries is also easier with iTranslate, which provides translations for specific words and phrases in over 50 languages. Another app, AroundMe, conveniently pinpoints your location and the nearest gas station, bar, hospital, cinema, and other establishments.Maximize Foursquare. Foursquare app users can check exclusive discounts or offers, depending on their location. It’s useful in helping you make the right decisions by providing multiple money-saving options, as it features other users’ tips on the most affordable yet worthwhile establishments.Be a CEB member. CEB members are provided a time-saving option since they can view their flight history, booking updates and seat sale alerts. You can also check in for your flights from 4 to 48 hours before your flight to cut down on your queueing time at the airport. These services are available just by registering through www.cebupacificair.com.Travel light. Keep all personal items contained in a smaller, lighter bag. Plan wisely and bring only clothes that are necessary for the trip. Not only does traveling light keep your belongings organized, going to different places becomes much cheaper and more convenient. If shopping is in the itinerary, leave room for items that you’ll purchase during the trip. Buy prepaid baggage allowance from 15 to 30 kilos for more travel savings, if that is the case.Charge it with the Cebu Pacific Citibank Card. The Cebu Pacific Citibank Card has many exclusive and unique benefits for the budget-conscious traveler. There’s the free one-way ticket to almost any destination, the seat sale alerts, and the CEB points which can be converted to CEB vouchers. These vouchers can be used to book flights without restrictions on fares and destinations, and purchase prepaid baggage allowance. CEB points are easily earned from any purchase made using the Cebu Pacific Citibank card.Pay attention to currency. Watch the exchange rate in the country you’re visiting. Some exchange centers have less favorable rates than others, so don’t be too hasty to change money. Do an Internet search or ask your friends first where the best rates are offered. It might also be cheaper to book hotels using the local currency.Watch your meals. You can still be spontaneous with the dining options offered during your vacation, but it’s good to know where the affordable restaurant options are. If you’re staying at a hostel with a kitchen, you can cook your meals yourself using ingredients bought from nearby groceries and markets. Or take note of buffet restaurants so you can eat a heavy lunch. Instead of ordering food at the hotel, go out and find a café or diner serving similar items at less expensive prices.Fly with CEB. CEB offers the lowest fares in the 34 domestic and 16 international destinations it flies to. It’s entirely possible for the budget-conscious traveler to book flights in advance, and visit as many diverse and culturally enriching places as possible. Just remember the many helpful ways to keep these travels budget-friendly.

More fun family mealtimes with 8+2 and 6+1 Jollibee Chicken Bucket Promo

2011-09-16T02:22:00.000-07:00

Great food shared with loved ones always turns every meal into an irreplaceable bonding experience – be it on a fun out of town trip or those regular days when everyone gathers simply to enjoy good conversations and hearty laughter. And for Pinoys, there’s nothing like having their favorite chicken treats from Jollibee – whether it’s the crispylicious and juicylicious Chickenjoy, the delicious inside and out goodness of the Jollibee Chicken Barbecue or a combination of both! With the ongoing exciting bucket promotion from Jollibee, you can definitely enjoy more fun mealtimes with your family and friends!

From September 1 to October 31, 2011, every 8-piece Chickenjoy - Chicken Barbecue - or Combo Bucket comes with 2 pieces chicken for FREE, for only P425! Upgrade your meal by adding only P70 for 4 - rice and 4 regular drinks, or add P170 to get 4 orders of spaghetti and 4 regular drinks – sure ways to satisfy all your chicken cravings and brighten everyone’s day.

Or you can choose any of the 6-piece Chicken buckets and get 1 piece –chicken for FREE, for the same affordable price of P335! For more smiles all around the table, just add P60 to get 3 - rice and 3 regular drinks, or go for 3 orders of spaghetti plus 3 regular drinks for an additional P160.

Jollibee’s 8+2 FREE and 6+1 FREE Chicken Bucket promo is available via Jollibee Drive-Thru or Jollibee Express Delivery only, so the whole family can conveniently enjoy their favorite chicken treats whether on the go or in the comfort of their home.

Grab the 8+2 or 6+1 Jollibee Chicken Buckets now and make those precious bonding moments more delicious with the well-loved taste of your favorite Jollibee Chicken treats!

Moms make meaty, great-tasting soups with Knorr Cubes

2011-09-14T23:09:00.000-07:00

A huge bowl of delicious soup is one great expression of a mother’s love to her family. Like a re-assuring hug or an adoring kiss, the goodness of a steaming meaty soup never fails to warm the heart. In making their signature soup meant to delight the whole family, one ingredient most moms rely on is the meatiest Knorr Cubes. Knorr Cubes is the standard for great-tasting soups. It graces the tables of Filipino families to serve nothing less than comforting, appetizing experience.

“Proven to be the meatiest cooking aid in the country, Knorr Cubes is an affordable, convenient and trustworthy ingredient aimed to help mothers make the best, meatiest soups, and provide comfort and love to the whole family,” shares Chef Tristan Encarnacion, Knorr’s resident chef.

Take it from doting mothers Melody and Michelle who both believe that a soup-based dish is not complete without Knorr Cubes to meat it up. Michelle Mantecon is a 37 year-old mom, wife and businesswoman. She takes cooking as a meaningful way to make her family feel how much she loves them. “I love cooking arroz caldo, nilaga and tinola for them. Knorr Cubes is an important ingredient for my soupy recipes since it adds the meaty, distinct flavor that my whole family can’t get enough of,” she says.

31 year-old mom and career woman Melody Cabanilla has been using Knorr Cubes ever since she started cooking for husband Ronald. A legacy passed on to her by her mom, she prepares deliciously comforting soupy dishes with Knorr Cubes for them to enjoy after work. “And now that we have two sons, there are four of us who share loving and joyful meal times over hot, soupy dishes. Our favorites are bulalo and sotanghon since these are very filling, flavorful and made tastier with Knorr Cubes.”

For these moms, nothing beats the joy and satisfaction they see on their family’s faces, thanks to the meaty goodness brought by Knorr Cubes. Indeed, meal times become more mouth-watering, meatier and inspire more meaningful family bonding moments with Knorr Cubes.

Knorr Cubes is available in sari-sari stores, supermarkets and groceries nationwide, and is also now available in P4.50 singles pack in Chicken, Pork and Beef variants.

Five reasons why real friends need offline bonding moments

2011-09-07T19:33:00.000-07:00

Celebrate Friendship Day everyday with your barkada in the best way possible—by spending quality time together in person. And as you schedule your fun get-togethers, budget will be the least of your worries because Greenwich, the Philippines’ favorite pizza chain, now offers presyong kaibigan for their pizzas and pastas. Face-to-face moments with the barkada can now be easier and scheduled more often so you can enjoy the many other perks of real-time face time with friends. All it takes is to round up your friends with “Greenwich tayo!”

1. Live emoticons. Virtually nothing gets lost in translation when interactions are face-to-face. To rule out misinterpretations among friends, make your kwento or latest update come to life by sharing it in person, complete with real feelings in your face and voice. Have a joke to share? Sure you get the smiley, but there’s also nothing more infectious than hearing the LOLs of friends in person. Wanna make it extra fun? Throw in a special barkada treat- Greenwich Special Overload- with 13 premium toppings! Double-size for only P229 that’s good for 3 friends.

2. Celebrate! Happy status update? New gadget? Great day at work? Share and celebrate with the barkada! Kilig moments with a new significant other? Go ahead and tell everyone what happened. Nothing beats the feeling of getting giddy together and painting a rosy picture of your future with those who know you best. Make it feel extra festive with Greenwich All-Meat & Cheese Overload. Barkada-size for only P349 that’s good for 4 friends.

3. Barkada date. Forget about your ‘single loneliness’ and enjoy the day with other single friends instead, together with your favorite comfort food. In their company, you’ll have plenty of special someones. Go and get cheesy together over a favorite John Lloyd Cruz-rom-com flick, or lose yourselves in an action thriller. In the physical company of your friends, you’ll always be comforted and never have to feel alone. Certainly not when you’re also crowding over 7-Cheese Overload. Double-size Overload Pizza for only P229 that’s good for 3 friends.

4. Real hugs and comfort. When shared face-to-face, bad news becomes lighter because you can look into the faces of your dearest friends. Nothing beats having them around to physically comfort you and let you know it will be okay. Rally them and feel their support as you pour out your troubles. Be there for them, too, whenever they need a helping hand or a shoulder to cry on. The comfort level just goes through the roof when you top off the moment with the certified Philippines’ favorite Ultimate Hawaiian Overload. Double-size Overload Pizza for only P199 that’s good for 3 friends.

5. True-blue ‘trending’. Know what your cool friends are wearing, and most importantly, how they pull it off in person. Watch the hottest music videos together or share a pair of earphones to listen to new indie bands and share reviews live and on-the-spot. By sharing new interests and passions together and in person, friendship bonds are strengthened. And the kwentuhan lasts longer with a Greenwich Lasagna Supreme. Lasagna Supreme for only P79.

Missing your friends yet? Send a PM now and invite them out. And with Greenwich’s pizzas and pasta dishes now presyong kaibigan, you can have as many get-togethers as you want and enjoy the best of real moments together.

Nike Sportswear gives its icon pieces a modern twist

2011-08-18T04:34:00.000-07:00

Athletes show their off-field styles. In photo are (L to R):
LA Tenorio, Jinno Rufino, Tata Garcia, Jessica Mendoza and Rio dela Cruz.

Introducing its pinnacle range of footwear and apparel set to dominate the wardrobes of our style-conscious athletes and sports enthusiasts, Nike Philippines officially launched its Nike Sportswear (NSW) Fall and Holiday 2011 collections that embody the modernized classic pieces, yet staying true to its athletic tradition.

“Nike Sportswear has always been known for its statement making pieces that fit various active lifestyles. In these new collections, we zero in to the spectrum of styles and preferences by creating footwear and apparel pieces that speak about the character of an athlete on and off the field,” said Nike Philippines Country Marketing Manager Mae Dichupa.

This season, step out in style with our NSW classic favorites refreshed with a modern twist - the AW77 Hoody and the Air Max 90. Remixing old and new styles, athletes and sports enthusiasts will be delighted to find cotton staples sit alongside cutting-edge fabric mixes for unrivalled comfort and style statement. Pushing the creativity to the peak, our in-house designers have kept the silhouettes clean with unwavering attention-to-detail to place each piece in the easy-to-wear yet statement-making category.

Athletes can also expect the usual surprises of concealed storage, unexpected material blends and unrivalled fit to ensure they’re always on the forefront of style without sacrificing comfort.

AW77 Hybrid Hoody
A classic hoody remixed, the AW77 Hybrid Hoody is reintroduced this Fall with technology innovations featuring waterproof Vislon zippers, bonded seams and tape back construction for a better fit. Listening to the voices of our athletes, the modifications have set the bar of their style requirements and the practicality of wear, topping the charts as the off-field choice for the season.

The AW77 Hybrid Hoody can be traced to its debut in 1977, and is today remixed in bright colors and premium details. Made from 100% cotton terry fleece fabric, the hoody provides a soft athletic fit and the full front zip affords customized ventilation to adjust to the swings in weather in our unpredictable tropical climate. New features including bonded seams afford a more comfortable wear, embroidered eyelets under the arms for enhanced ventilation, a Vislon zip pocket above the left kangaroo pocket to protect and secure small items and a scuba hood with a bungee draw-cord in a contrast color for a customized fit creating the twist on the classic hoody.

SRP:
AW77 Hybrid Fleece FZ (Men’s) - P4,295
AW77 Team EZ Hoody (Women’s) - P3,795

Air Max 90 Fuse 2.0
One of Nike’s most innovative icons, the Air Max 90, has been given a new lease of life in the 21st century, embodied in the Air Max 90 Fuse 2.0. What began as a traditional process of hand-sewn running shoes has evolved into a machine precision, heat pressurized system that utilizes advanced modern materials that is the Hyperfuse, created for an enhanced breathable, and lightweight shoe.

Hyperfuse creates a durable composite material composed of three layers; one for stability, one for breathability and the third for durability. All three layers are fused together using heat and pressure to create a level of precision unattainable via traditional cut-and-sew methods. The uni-body design results in lightweight, breathable footwear and minimizes seams that can wear on an athlete’s foot. This new sport aesthetic is merged with iconic silhouettes from Nike’s past in the Air Max 90 Fuse 2.0. It turns out Hyperfuse also had some unintended results when designers found they could push the limits of both color and finishes with the new technology.

SRP: Air Max 90 Fuse - P5,495

The NSW Fall 2011 Collection is now available at Nike stores nationwide. Visit www.nike.com.ph for more retail information.

Bonding moments made easier with Greenwich presyong kaibigan pizzas and pastas

2011-08-18T04:22:00.000-07:00

They belong to your neighborhood, club, school or office barkada. They rank among your top profile viewers, and are just one mouse-click away from a group chat. Social media has added a new dimension to friendship, introducing a host of fun activities and sites for friends to let loose. But whether you hang out in a network or community board, there are some status updates that are best made in person.

Encouraging more face-to-face time among friends, Greenwich makes an irresistible offer to barkadas to show that virtual meals can never compare with the real deal.

Send a PM to the barkada and check-in at the nearest Greenwich Pizza branch for a fun and filling kwentuhan! Amid constantly rising prices of products today, Greenwich bucks the trend by bringing down the prices of its pizza and pasta best-sellers at presyong kaibigan showing that Greenwich values friendship and barkada bonding. By making these treats more barkada budget-friendly, Greenwich lets friends enjoy extended bonding sessions with delicious pizzas and pastas to share.

When was the last time you enjoyed old-school barkada kwentuhan? Spending offline time together promotes stronger connections and warmth among friends that no emoticon can ever express. And because nothing beats the sound of friends’ laughter while sharing the latest jokes or a real hug when you need it, Greenwich makes it easier and more enjoyable to catch up with friends the classic way.

Exchange your status update for a lunch date (even merienda or a dinner date) at Greenwich and share barkada pizza favorites that are now lighter on the pocket. Choose among the Classic Hawaiian or Ham & Cheese Pizzas at P149 for 9” double size and P249 for 12” barkada size, or the generously topped Ultimate Hawaiian or Triple Ham and Cheese Overload at P199 for double size and P299 for barkada size, or the filling All Meat & Cheese or Greenwich Special Overload Pizzas starting at P229.

Greenwich’s delicious range of pasta dishes have also been made more barkada-friendly. Get the snack size of the flavorful Lasagna Supreme for only P79 or the full size for P99. Also, the perfect combination of Chicken Carbonara & Premium Beef Strips or Lasagna Supreme & Jumbo Crunchy Chicken in the Pasta Supreme Meat Plates, are now at only P149.

Celebrate the value of friendship and take barkada bonding moments from virtual meets to real treats at Greenwich. Join the Greenwich barkada at http://www.facebook.com/GreenwichPizza or follow @greenwichpizza on Twitter for more presyong kaibigan deals.

100 days of happiness in Hawaii

2011-08-18T04:06:00.000-07:00

If given the chance to get a taste of your favorite food—especially one that reminds you of your roots, wouldn’t you go and try it as often as you could? This longing for his favorite Chickenjoy and Jollibee Spaghetti, among others in the menu, prompted a young Filipino living overseas to experience everyday delicious food at Jollibee when it opened its first store in Hawaii last December.

Jollibee’s branch in Waipahu is its 26th outlet in the US. When it first opened its doors to customers, it expectedly attracted a large number of Filipino-Americans and their friends. Everyone wanted a taste of the distinctly Pinoy and langhap-sarap treats that they either grew up with or heard about from friends and relatives.

For 25-year old Gabe Torno, a Filipino born and raised in Hawaii, a visit to Jollibee soon meant so much more than just getting his snack fix. It also enabled him to discover his Filipino roots.

Torno is the author behind Diary of a Jollibee Kid (http://www.jollibeekid.com), a blog that chronicles his 100 consecutive days – and succeeding weekly visits – to Jollibee Waipahu.

“I first encountered Jollibee when I visited the Philippines along with my sisters in 2000. I remember the meaty spaghetti and the crispy and juicy chicken that made me want to go back to the Philippines one day. There was something about the food, the people, and atmosphere of Jollibee that made it special,” he shares.

Like most Hawaii-born Filipino-Americans, Gabe’s immersion in Filipino culture was limited to his experiences at home. And it was only in college at the University of Hawaii-Manoa that Gabe began learning about his heritage in earnest, taking Tagalog classes and becoming involved in the activities of the Fil-Am community. But even with his increased immersion into the Filipino culture of Hawaii, he could not forget his initial Jollibee experience during his first visit to his home country and its growing importance in Philippine pop culture. “When I went back in 2009, the first thing that I wanted to do was go to Jollibee and taste the food once again,” says Gabe.

Diary of a Jollibee Kid was meant to be an online chronicle of his attempt to set a personal record of consecutive store visits. Gabe had initially planned daily visits for the store’s first year, but abbreviated it to 100 consecutive daily visits, and weekly store visits henceforth. Each post documents food orders and service quality, and often segues into discussions of his extracurricular activities in school and the community.

Gabe’s love for Jollibee is not limited to its food, though he counts Jollibee Spaghetti, Chickenjoy, the Breakfast Joys meals, and halo-halo (offered in US stores) among his favorites. For Gabe, Jollibee is a place where he can sit back and relax in between hectic activities, a sort of home base where he can experience the everyday delicious food he has quickly grown to love. And herein lies Jollibee’s charm. “Although I haven't visited any of the Jollibees in the mainland USA or any place other than Philippines, I know that each Jollibee brings the taste of home everywhere it is located,” he says.

And that “taste of home” – not just the affordable and great-tasting food but the warm and friendly ambience of every Jollibee store – is what makes Pinoys anywhere in the world keep coming back for more of the familiar and well-loved langhap sarap goodness of Jollibee.

Discovering the potent health benefits of C2 Green Tea

2011-08-15T23:51:00.000-07:00

Green Tea is one of the most popular drinks that has figured into the daily diets of health buffs, and for good reason. It is also classified as a functional food that offers essential nutrients that help prevent diseases and improve one’s well-being. Giving Pinoys a delicious taste into healthy living is Universal Robina Corporation’s (URC) C2 Green Tea, the country’s favorite cool and clean drink that combines the nourishing goodness of green tea with a refreshing and irresistible taste.

The potency of green tea goes beyond its fresh and natural ingredients. According to Dr. Liza Francisco, a nutrition support specialist from the Weight Management Center and Nutrition Support Team of St. Luke’s Medical Center and Asian Hospital, its secret lies in its rich antioxidant content. “Antioxidants dampen the effects of free radicals that we get when we are exposed to the environment, pollution, and unhealthy diets. To fight ‘oxidative stress’, one has to enhance antioxidant stores in the body by getting it from the diet. Green tea contains high levels of antioxidants that counteract free radicals so it’s a great beverage of choice,” she explains.

According to her, among all the other tea drinks in the market, green tea undergoes the least amount of processing allowing it to retain the largest amounts of antioxidants at 50 to 150grams per serving. Among the antioxidants present in green tea are catechins such as Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) that are known to combat free radicals and offer many health benefits, from helping slow down aging, improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels, to helping prevent diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and diabetes among others. Green tea also has thermogenic properties that help enhance the body’s metabolism to aid in weight loss. Dr. Francisco also recommends green tea beverages to patients who wish to stay healthy and in shape, an example of which is C2 Green Tea. “I recommend green tea to those who are looking for a beverage that tastes good yet has antioxidants and is not high in calories. Green tea is a healthier alternative to taking soda or sweetened fruit juices. When I help my patients lose weight, aside from diet, exercise, and medications, I recommend green tea,” she shares.

Gentle to the heart and body, C2 Green Tea is made from 100% natural green tea leaves of Camellia sinensis and is brewed and bottled on the same day to lock in the health-giving goodness of antioxidants. With its invigorating and delicate flavors like Classic, Apple, Lemon, Orange, Peach, Strawberry, and Forest Fruits, C2 offers the perfect way to detoxify and live a truly healthy lifestyle that fun-loving and health-conscious Pinoys can share – the cool and clean way. C2 Green Tea is available in all leading supermarkets, groceries and sari-sari stores nationwide.

Doctor drops 95 lbs, quits smoking, and overcomes hypertension to lead Fitness First New You Achievement Awardees 2011

2011-08-03T20:05:00.000-07:00

Weight loss isn’t just about inches and pounds. It can mean eligibility to donate blood, ability to have a baby, or staying on the road to recovery. It can mean being an inspiration and even a teacher to others, improved relationships due to a new-found confidence, or better performance in sports and life. It can also mean independence.

These are some of the real-life experiences from the 15 finalists of the Fitness First New You Achievement Awards (NYAA) 2011 held last July 28 at the Unilab Bayanihan Center in Mandaluyong. Categorized into Health, Shape, Sport, Strength, and Staff with an Overall winner coming from the category winners, the event recognizes—for the third year in the country and for nearly a decade globally—the health and fitness achievements of Fitness First members.

In keeping with the awards night’s Mardi Gras theme, which bids farewell to bad habits, finalists shared their life changes during the program hosted by fitness enthusiasts Steve Patrick and Gelli Victor.

Charm Valenzuela lost 95 lbs from 233 lbs within a year and nine months of working out at Fitness First Platinum Trinoma. “I am a doctor who, ironically, was a hypertensive smoker and an emotional eater. Gradually embracing exercise and eating right made me become a better version of the old me. I am an example of just how much people can actually surprise themselves if they only make the decision to take better care of themselves,” said the Overall winner and Shape category winner.

Gerry Dakoykoy, Strength category winner, said that he enrolled in Fitness First Cebu at age 71. “I had never worked out in my entire adult life but the desire to live longer and healthier pushed me to engage the services of a personal trainer who gave me the right program for my age. Now being able to keep up with much younger relatives and friends makes Fitness First my best investment,” said the retiree.

Sports category winner Alfred Delos Reyes finished 7th in the 2011 102K Bataan Death March, placed in the top 25 in 6 other ultramarathons, and 7th in a 42K marathon. “I ran the race of my life but it took a lifetime for me to actually believe I can. Finishing strong proves that an ordinary gym-goer like me can believe, train and work hard to achieve any goal I set. At 38, a training program gives me that advantage,” said the language teacher and Fitness First Alabang member.

Angelita Mercado had a stroke when she was 31. The possibility of a recurrence motivated her to enroll at Fitness First RCBC. “Regimen results of weight reduction, toned muscles, improved endurance, and positive disposition at 46 prove that I can take control of my life. I know that I am as physically capable as any regular 20 to 30 year old, and my family has also now made exercise and healthy eating a part of their life,” said the Health category winner.

Recognized under the Staff category was Abby Liquigan, club administrator of Fitness First RCBC for seven years now. “I wanted to stop feeling embarrassed by sometimes being mistaken for a man, shopping in the men’s section, and having to suffer a variety of medical conditions that include hormonal imbalance, polycystic ovaries, scoliosis, and apnea.” Most of all, Abby achieved her primary reason for enlisting the help of a trainer and nutritionist: she’s currently expecting a baby.

“The New You Achievement Awards is an annual celebration but in truth, everyday in our 18 Fitness First clubs in the Philippines, we celebrate the stories of our members; stories of overcoming personal challenges, emerging better versions of themselves, proving something to themselves and inspiring others.

Special awards were also given to Ederlyn Maneja and Donna Guanzo for the outstanding results they achieved under the Fitness First exclusive weight loss programs Lose Big and Lose it! respectively, both designed by Dave Nuku, The Biggest Loser Asia Blue Trainer and Fitness First’s Regional Fitness Manager.

This year’s panel of judges included acclaimed fashion designer Frederick Peralta, film director Joey Reyes, NYAA 2010 Overall Winner Ivan Camasura, Fitness First Fitness training manager Joann Santos and Fitness First Head Nutritionist Rency Caga-anan.

NYAA 2011 was in cooperation with Athena, Manila Nature’s Link Corp., Metrobank, and Belomen. It was made possible by Colgate Plax and Nestle Ice Cream Special. Special thanks go to Enervon HP, Fruit Magic, Jordan Rice and Lux Asia.

A delicious and nutritious new treat: Jollibee Chicken Nugget Crunchers

2011-07-21T01:07:00.001-07:00

When it comes to food, kids look for delicious taste while moms seek to offer them something with nutritional value. The challenge of satisfying both ends now with the leading fast-food chain’s new Jollibee Chicken Nugget Crunchers.

Dubbed as the good nuggets, the fun new treat is made of seasoned tender chicken with carrot bits in golden yellow crunchy coating. Moreover, this will be the new nugget of choice for moms as it is fortified with Vitamin A to help develop their kids’ eyesight. Kids will also delight in munching the hand-held and “dip-able” Chicken Nugget Crunchers, especially with its sweet, flavorful barbecue sauce.

Every order of Jollibee Chicken Nugget Crunchers delivers crunchy goodness in every bite. Give kids the full delight with a Jollibee Kids Meal option where they can enjoy the Jollibee Chicken Nugget Crunchers complete with rice, regular-sized softdrink, and the featured collectible toy for only P98. It can also be enjoyed solo for P75, as a value meal with rice and regular-sized softdrink for P99, or with regular fries and regular-sized softdrink for P110.

No matter how kids and adults would like to enjoy the “good nuggets”, they are sure to have a great-tasting and nutrition-packed meal time at Jollibee.

Jollibee Chicken Nugget Crunchers is now available in all Jollibee branches nationwide for dine-in, drive-thru and take-out. For delivery, call Jollibee Express Delivery Service hotline at 8-7000 or log on to www.jollibeedelivery.com.

Catch the last Harry Potter movie for free, only with SMART Rewards

2011-07-21T00:58:00.000-07:00

Loyal SMART subscribers continue to enjoy blockbuster treats this month as SMART Rewards brings them the magic of Hogwarts one last time through the final installment of the Harry Potter movie series. On July 23, 2011 at 1:30pm, SMART Rewards will hold a free exclusive screening of the much-awaited Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 in 3D for SMART subscribers at the IMAX Theater, SM Mall of Asia.

Subscribers can get free access to one of the biggest movie events of the year by simply texting REWARDS HARRYPOTTER , , , (i.e. REWARDS HARRYPOTTER 042486,F,S,Juan Lopez) to 9800 until July 20 for a chance to win two movie tickets for free. Just make sure to check smart.com.ph/rewards for winners’ updates and information on how to claim the movie tickets.

Subscribers can also instantly get movie tickets and exciting treats at the SMART booths at the SM MOA IMAX Theater lobby on July 15, 16, 22 and 23.

Offering the best lifestyle experiences, SMART Rewards continues to shower its loyal subscribers with premium gifts. SMART Gold, Buddy and Bro users can look forward to more thrilling and exciting treats only from SMART Rewards.

SMART subscribers can reap amazing SMART Rewards already awaiting them at more than 100 partner establishments nationwide. To claim these rewards, SMART Gold and Buddy subscribers can simply text REWARDS to 9800. For SMART Bro subscribers, register through SMART Web Connect at http://smart.com.ph/connect. Visit http://smart.com.ph/rewards to find out more about SMART Rewards.

Irreplaceable family moments with Jollibee Chickenjoy

2011-07-10T22:28:00.000-07:00

For Filipino families across generations, bonding moments are more enjoyable when shared over good food. Through it all, Jollibee remains the go-to choice in filling such memories with delight—especially when there’s crispylicious and juicylicious Jollibee Chickenjoy on the family’s menu.

From childhood, the growing-up years contain memories of fun days spent with mom and dad watching a movie or window-shopping, and then enjoying Jollibee Chickenjoy on weekends. There are also the birthday parties, picnics and family trips, and after-school pasyalan that would almost always include buckets of everyone’s favorite fried chicken.

As everyone gets busier — with the kids’ hectic schedule at school, and mom and dad’s numerous work appointments - the whole family still makes it a point to share a special meal together as often as they can. And during these simple but nonetheless special moments, Jollibee Chickenjoy has always been a centerpiece of the table, keeping the warm family vibe alive just like old times. And even as each family member grows older and undergoes life’s major changes, some things such as their love and attachment to their families remain the same.

Indeed, the all-time favorite and truly irreplaceable Chickenjoy has been enjoyed by Filipino families for generations. Whether sharing a chicken bucket with the whole family, or enjoying the 1 or 2-piece Chickenjoy meal or Chickenjoy with Palabok or Jollibee Spaghetti, it will continue to be a valuable part of exceptional family bonding meals in the years to come.

Why this Sea Princess flies

2011-07-10T22:15:00.000-07:00

Unknown to many, the already multi-hyphenate Tessa Prieto-Valdes also lists diving in her bag of tricks. She has been a passionate diver since the early nineties, and has committed herself to explore as many marine treasures as possible. “It’s a whole different world when you dive,” says Tessa. “It’s all of God’s creation untouched by man. You can see creatures big and small, and the vastness of the ocean that is yet to be explored. So much creative inspiration and ideas come out whenever I dive.”

She is even known as the “Sea Princess”, a nickname given to her by diving instructor Gigi Santos and buddy Eileen Grey after an unfortunate encounter with pirates. They joked that Tessa was the only royalty onboard—a Sea Princess—so the name stuck, and she lives up to it as her love for diving continues to get stronger.

“Ever since I tried diving, I was instantly hooked. We even do ‘one day wonders’ or four dives in one day,” Tessa shared. “But of all the sites I have explored, the most unforgettable would be the magical Tubbataha Reef Marine Park in Sulu Sea. It has the best marine diversity in the world. We should all try to dive it at least once and help preserve its beauty.”

The Sea Princess’ family also shares the same passion in caring for marine life. She spent her week-long honeymoon on a dive boat in Palau with husband Dennis—a professional diving instructor whom she met during her earlier diving days. Their children are supportive of programs like the Condura Run for Tubbataha Reef or Bantay Kalikasan which work to fight water pollution.

“My kids and I are like fish in the water, and we spend most of our weekends on the beach,” she said. “This is why we are very conscious about recycling and the effects of pollution in the oceans.”

The Sea Princess travels

A certified jetsetter, Tessa prefers Philippine dive spots for the genuinely warm service of the people, the incredible marine reefs, and the ideal weather. For young new divers, her top picks include the teeming corals of Anilao, and the whale shark experience in Donsol, Sorsogon. “It’ totally awesome to see the largest fish in the world, and it’s very rare to see them in the open sea,” she said. In Palawan, her favorites are El Nido for its sea cows or dugong, dolphin, and turtle sightings, and Coron in Busuanga for its shipwreck diving sites.

Tessa is also fond of Pescador Island in Cebu, which she says is spectacular because of the sardine runs; Malapascua, also in Cebu, for its unexploited wonders; and Apo Island in Negros Oriental for its more than a decade old marine sanctuary teeming with life.

Fortunately for wandering Juans who want to see the country’s uniquely colorful bed of marine biodiversity, flying to these sites is made more affordable by Cebu Pacific, the country’s largest airline. With national flag carrier’s ever-expanding list of routes, Cebu Pacific brings travelers to the most captivating and world-class dive sites in the country.

Also known for its convenient services and features, Cebu Pacific truly helps travelers make the most out of every trip.

“My husband is in charge of booking flights online, which is very convenient and easy. We book ahead so we get better rates, select front row seats, and go for the prepaid luggage allowance that’s perfect for my diving gear,” Tessa shared. “And more importantly, I just love how their flights are on time.”

With affordable rates and convenient, on-time flights, Cebu Pacific’s domestic flights will take people to thrilling underwater adventures this summer, just like the Sea Princess.

Take a bite into delicious rewards with SMART Rewards and Chowking

2011-07-03T21:14:00.000-07:00

Food-lovers can take a bite into delicious rewards as SMART Rewards treats them to great-tasting freebies from Chowking. Along with the long list of exclusive discounts and privileges that await SMART subscribers, they can also delight in free siomai when they dine in or have their favorite Chowking meals delivered.

From June 1 to August 31, SMART Gold and Buddy subscribers who dine in at Chowking can enjoy 3-pieces Siomai for every minimum purchase of P150. Redeeming the reward is easy. Those who wish to get in on the siomai craze need only to download the promo coupon on their mobile phone by texting COUPON 467 to 9800, and present it upon dining in to receive the free treat.

For foodies who want their Chowking favorites delivered, they can take home free 3-pieces Siomai for every P200 minimum purchase. Simply download the SMS coupon and dial the Chowking hotline to place the order and avail of the treat.

With the new partnership with Chowking, SMART users can enjoy more satisfying rewards only from the country’s first mobile rewards program, SMART Rewards. Text “REWARDS” to 9800 to join SMART Rewards and dial Chowking delivery at 9-88-88 for Metro Manila or 0918-9399888 for provincial stores to redeem amazing treats.

To know available rewards points, text “POINTS” to 9800. No need to use your points to avail of this promotion. For further details, see Smart flyers and print ads, or visit smart.com.ph/rewards.

New 2011 Coca-Cola Can Glass, now available only at McDonald’s

2011-07-03T21:07:00.000-07:00

McDonald’s and Coca-Cola have once again teamed up to offer the all-new limited edition Coca-Cola Glass, this time in a new exciting look. Starting July 2, everyone can bring home their very own Coca-Cola Can Glass just by adding P25 to any McDonald’s Extra Value Meal.

A favorite collectible throughout the years, the Coca-Cola Glass now comes in the shape of the contemporary can for a more exciting never-before seen look and is available in 6 colorful designs – Blue, Charcoal, Purple, Lime, Green, and Pink. Whether through dine-in, take-out, drive-thru or McDelivery (8-MCDO, www.mcdelivery.com.ph), the Coca-Cola Can Glass set is available all day, every day at all McDonald’s stores nationwide. Visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph for more details.

Nike Victory Bras Series

2011-07-01T00:06:00.000-07:00

No detail too small, no part too minor, the Nike Victory Bra series is setting a new standard for the industry.

July 2011, Manila, Philippines – When it comes to bras, no two women are the same – not in their physiques, needs or desires. Add to that different sports with different impact levels and women have a range of needs that can’t be met with one type of bra. Two years ago, Nike Apparel Innovation designers used this as their guiding principle and asked hundreds of high-
school girls and young women around the world to show them their favorite bras. Together they talked sports-bra support, everything from fabrics and clasps to what their bras’ superpower would be if they could have one.

Inspired by their discussions, the design team knew they could do better – better support, better fit, better ventilation. They wanted to treat a bra like a pinnacle piece of an elite athlete’s gear, to give women a choice of support to fit their body type and the different activities they do.

While no two women are the same, most of the participants were wearing the same bra: a compression fit with a racer-back scoop neck. The designers heard the young women talk about layering two sports bras to increase support while others wore a sports bra over their normal bra for modesty. From this research and insight, the Nike Victory Bra series was born with four
different styles running the gamut of support: Adjust X, Definition, Shape, and Pro Compression. The range fits a breadth of preferences and needs across different sizes and activities.

Nike’s Apparel Innovation design team began the process by looking at how fabrics pull moisture off the body, coming up with a patented fabric laminate that layers material for support and moisture management. Every detail was obsessed, tested and finessed down to the chest band – a 3.5-cm-wide strip just below the cup that hits where women chafe the most. To get it right the team went through 120 versions trying different ways to build the chest band down to the thread and thread count. Even placement of the care label was up for debate. Endless discussions ensued on thread and stitching as they applied to comfort and shaving down overall weight. The hardware was remade to be lighter and less bulky. And, as the project’s Senior Innovation Manager Susan Sokolowski puts it, making the bra “elegant and attractive” was the group’s task.

Then came the ‘aha’ moment when the design team saw an early sample prototype mold and an idea sparked. When eying the mold of a cup shape over a plastic form, it ignited the possibility of remaking the under-bust support completely. As Susan recalls, “We noticed the end of the mold made a pretty line in the fabric. This piece would normally be cut away, and we thought why don’t we do what they’ve done with molded footwear and make a molded, flexible under-bust support?”

The mesh was compressed so it was stable and had no stretch, making it lower profile than the type of under-bust support used before. What should have been trash, just excess fabric surrounding the actual mold was the answer the team was looking for. The moment was akin to Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman seeing his wife’s waffle iron and creating the first Nike Waffle
sole. The new flexible under-bust support has reduced the weight of the fully adjustable versions of the Nike Victory Adjust X and UBra and is protected by a patent (one of three for the Nike Victory Bra series). Each version of the bra is now 10 to 27 percent lighter than the models they’re replacing. And the shoulder straps are also 35 to 90 percent stronger, to provide a solid
anchor.

Through this process, the team also developed a new testing protocol for the bra. In biomechanical lab tests, every woman tests differently. The same woman can wear the same bra and do the same activity, but will get different results on different days simply based on normal hormonal fluctuation in her body. Mechanical testing collects samples from specific components
of the bra to ensure it provides enough support and stretch. It also means the results aren’t subjective.

Not leaving anything to chance, the team conducted extensive wear-testing, with each prototype worn numerous times by professional athletes like Paula Radcliffe and members of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team. The results were excellent – no one wanted to give back their bras.

Each element of the Nike Victory Bra series has been obsessed over, crafted and considered. No detail was too small, no part too minor, making it Nike’s most advanced bra yet, setting a new standard for the industry. This focus on everything from the seams and stitches to the thread and hardware adds up to stronger, lighter, more comfortable support for women – no matter what their sport or size.

Nike Victory Adjust X Bra

Its adjustable straps and adjustable chest band with new modern low-profile hardware offers targeted support. The X-back design has key zones of mesh placement for moisture management, making the bra lighter and stronger. It’s innovative molded under-bust support shaves weight and sits flush to the body. With cup-specific sizing and molded cups to encapsulate and stabilize, the Nike Victory Adjust X Bra offers the most support and shaping. Designed for larger chest sizes and high-impact activities, it also comes with a U-back design

SRP: P2,195

Nike Victory Definition Bra

With molded spacer mesh, this bra provides individual encapsulated cup support, as well as modesty and shaping. Excellent for larger cup sizes, it has more vertical and lateral support as well as moisture management. It’s 24 percent lighter and the shoulder strap is also 64 percent stronger than previous bras. The power-mesh racer back comfortably pulls on overhead, while
the mesh is designed to allow the skin to breathe.

SRP: P1,695

Nike Victory Shape Bra

With molded spacer mesh for support and modesty, it has lift and compression for shaping as well as support. Both 11 percent lighter and 36 percent stronger than its most recent predecessors thanks to its new shoulder-strap construction and the spacer mesh used in the bra.

SRP: P1,495

Nike Victory Pro Compression Bra

Crafted of two layers of materials, the Nike Victory Pro Compression model supports the chest by stabilizing the breasts with compression. Made entirely of considered materials, it’s 23 percent lighter than its most recent predecessors and has more support thanks to the new shoulder-strap construction and cross-grain liner.

SRP: P1,195

Take a bite into delicious rewards with SMART Rewards and Chowking

2011-06-30T23:35:00.000-07:00

Geneva Cruz named the Philippines' sexiest vegetarian

2011-06-26T18:36:00.000-07:00

Tens of Thousands of Votes Were Cast to Help PETA Pick the Winner at PETAAsiaPacific.com

Manila — Singer and actor Geneva Cruz has been crowned the Philippines' Sexiest Vegetarian Celebrity for 2011 after a fierce, month-long battle that recently ended at PETAAsiaPacific.com. Geneva narrowly beat out Delara frontwoman and TV personality Lougee Basabas for the title. Other popular contenders included actors Yasmien Kurdi, Chin-Chin Gutierrez, and Raymond Bagatsing, actress Alicia Mayer, and international stars Natalie Portman, Hayden Panettiere, Russell Brand, and Leona Lewis.

Geneva has appeared on the covers of several magazines, including FHM, Uno, and Maxim. Her fame grew after the album that she released with pop group Smokey Mountain went double-platinum. Not long after that, her first solo album, I Like You, went platinum. She recently performed at a sold-out show on Valentine’s Day.

Geneva has been vegetarian since she was 15 and made the decision to switch to a compassionate diet after she interacted with animals in their natural environment while filming a shampoo commercial. "[We] were in this location in Palawan where all the animals were just roaming free! Free! All I had to do was feed one of them and say 'Natural!' We kept doing that, take after take. … I couldn't take it anymore. Not after that." Now a staunch vegan, Geneva says, "For me, being vegan is not about the diet. It's really about my love for all creatures."

"There's no easier way to put passion in your life than to put compassion in your diet," says PETA Asia Vice-President of International Operations Jason Baker. "Geneva knows that going vegetarian is the best thing that you can do for animals, the Earth, and your health. Plus, she's living proof that being vegan keeps you slim and sexy."

The complete list of vegetarian celebrities who were in the running in this year's poll is available at PETAAsiaPacific.com.

Discover inspiration everyday with Signature Dishes 2011

2011-06-22T18:49:00.001-07:00

For the country’s top chefs, the art of creating a true signature dish starts with the promise of fresh ingredients and inspiration. Like any masterpiece, signature dishes offer stories that can excite the pulse and palate of a guest. Unilever Food Solutions (UFS) shares how gastronomy’s giants in the Philippines create these stories and build its flavors from inspiration found everyday through its special cookbook, Signature Dishes 2011.

A must-have on every food-lover’s shelf, the cookbook offers an intimate take on the trailblazing cuisines of 11 mostly Manila-based culinary artists including Chefs Josef Miklavc, Franco Brodini, and Mark Mulder. With page after page of delectable dishes, the book offers appetizing inspiration that will let Filipino gourmands, food operators and restaurateurs discover the passion it takes to develop their own trademark flair. After all, it’s a restaurant’s signature dish that creates its distinct identity, ensures enduring success, and unravels that irresistible all-time favorite that diners will always cherish and look for.

Flavorful secrets served
With their toques filled with experience and time-tested techniques, the featured chefs create the perfect combination of aroma and flavor in each of their renditions, from fricassees, confits to gratins.

Chef Josef Miklavc, the executive chef of Hyatt Hotel and Casino Manila, has mastered almost any type of cuisine through his travels across the globe. His close-guarded recipes and masterful dishes have enticed guests including Prime Minister Tony Blair, Queen Elizabeth II and Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei. His signature dish demonstrates how rich cooking traditions and a back to basics approach can inspire boundless possibilities.

From one world-class hotel chain to another, Makati Shangri-La’s executive Chef Franco Brodini takes part in the all-star ensemble of Signature Dishes 2011. Ensuring that the hotel’s stellar food experience will remain consistent to worldwide standards, Chef Franco’s administrative tasks are just as crucial as his expert cooking in the kitchen. As technique is said to be the first thing that a chef should learn, Chef Franco mastered diverse techniques to deliver brilliant dishes. This is his inspiration for his signature dish that upholds the fine-dining experience of Makati Shangri-La.

Also featured in Signature Dishes 2011 is Chef Mark Mulder, formerly of Traders Hotel Manila, who finds most of his inspiration through travel. Having perfected his culinary skills in the kitchens of leading cruise lines around the world, he has earned stellar list of accolades including a third prize in the prestigious Young Chef’s Dutch National Championship. His signature dish is a testament to his caliber and his insatiable appetite for exciting flavor combinations.

With the wealth of tips, culinary insights and inspiration in every page of the cookbook, food service operators and food enthusiasts can draw inspiration everyday from these chefs, and start sharing their own flavorful stories with every dish. Signature Dishes 2011 will be available starting July in leading bookstores nationwide.

Make the meatiest soups this rainy season

2011-06-21T20:31:00.000-07:00

To the Filipino taste bud, there is nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of deliciously meaty soup. From the first spoonful to the last drop, meaty, mouth-watering soupy goodness never fails to delight, especially if the soup is cooked with the standard ingredient of great-tasting soups, Knorr Cubes. Try these delectable recipes for a taste of Knorr Cubes’ five times meatier flavour that’s sure to please your palate.

Knorr Cubes Spicy Braised Pork Nilaga

Ingredients:
1 large onion, chopped,
2 tablespoons ginger, chopped
2 large tomatoes, chopped
½ pork kasim, cut into large cubes
2 tanglad stems, pounded
2 siling labuyo
5 cups water
2 pieces Knorr Pork Cubes
1 can button mushrooms, drained and sliced in half
2 cups coconut cream
2 tablespoons wansuy leaves, chopped
½ cup onion leeks, thinly sliced

Procedure:

Heat oil, then sauté onions, ginger and tomatoes until these are tender. Add pork, tanglad and siling labuyo, and continue sautéing. Pour in water and add Knorr Pork Cubes. Bring to a boil and keep cooking until the meat is tender. Add mushroom and coconut cream. Reduce the heat and add wansuy and leeks. Serve hot.

Knorr Corned Beef Nilaga

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons cooking oil
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 medium onions, finely chopped
2 medium tomatoes, coarsely chopped
2 cans corned beef 150g
4 cups water
2 pieces Knorr Beef Cubes
¼ teaspoon black peppercorn
½ cup cabbage, shredded

Procedure:

Sauté garlic, tomatoes and onion. Add corned beef and continue sautéing. Pour in water and, for a full-bodied broth, add the Knorr Beef Cubes. Add peppercorns and bring to a vigorous boil before adding the cabbage. Reduce the heat. Once the vegetables are cooked, remove from heat and serve hot.

Knorr Meatless Sotanghon Soup

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon cooking oil
0.5 grams atsuete, approximately 20 seeds
2 tablespoons garlic, minced
3 tablespoons, onions chopped
2 pieces Knorr Chicken Broth Cubes
1 liter water
50 grams sotanghon (soaked in water for 5 minutes prior to cooking)
¼ tablespoon black pepper, ground
1/8 cup carrots, thinly sliced
¼ cup pechay Baguio, thinly sliced

Procedure:
Heat oil in a pan and stir in atsuete seeds for one minute before removing them. In the same oil, sauté garlic and onions for three minutes until garlic becomes light brown and the onions translucent. Add water and bring mixture to a boil. Add Knorr Chicken Broth Cubes and sotanghon noodles. Let it boil for another five minutes. Season with pepper, then add carrots and pechay Baguio. Let it simmer for two to three more minutes. Remove from heat then serve.

Need to cook a satisfyingly savory soup dish even without the meat? Add Knorr Cubes for that mouthwatering, meaty taste. Knorr Cubes in Chicken, Pork and Beef flavors are available in sari-sari stores, groceries and supermarkets nationwide.

C2 cool & clean is the No. 1 ready-to-drink green tea in the Philippines

2011-06-15T17:55:00.000-07:00

In this era of holistic wellness, C2 Cool and Clean Green Tea has made healthy living fun, fabulous and convenient. The country’s first ready-to-drink green tea, Universal Robina Corporation’s (URC) C2 has become the nation’s most well-loved line of healthy beverage since it was introduced in 2004. With its delicious taste and health-giving qualities, it’s no wonder that Filipinos have been opting to enjoy the irresistible C2 goodness.

The formula that made C2 Cool & Clean such a big hit was nothing short of revolutionary. A trendsetter in the ready-to-drink market, C2 is brewed from 100% natural green tea leaves of Camellia sinensis and bottled on the same day, locking in all the goodness of green tea’s antioxidants called catechins in every bottle.

Today, C2 Cool & Clean offers an assortment of flavors like classic, lemon, apple, orange, strawberry, peach, forest fruits and for those concerned with their sugar intake, C2 Sugar-free Apple. Sizes range from the very convenient sip-and-seal C2 Solo, to regular 355ml and 500ml, to C2 Litro and 1.5 Liters, which are perfect for sharing.

Throughout the years, C2 has become a fixture in the lives of countless Pinoys who enjoy active and healthy lifestyles. With its rejuvenating advantages and refreshing taste, C2 has become more than just a healthy drink. For dynamic people who are always on the go, the pioneer green-tea drink has become their favorite delicious ally in holistic wellness.

Another onscreen bonding moment for Jean and Jennica

2011-06-15T17:52:00.000-07:00

Beautiful actress Jean Garcia and her equally lovely daughter Jennica are lounging at home when the doorbell suddenly rings. The willowy Jennica gets up and finds three of her suitors at the door. What is usually a cause for panic becomes a delicious moment as Jean, with her expert mother instincts, helps her daughter prepare three delicious drinks for the unexpected guests. Sounds like a day in the life of the two ladies, but the mother-daughter tandem is just acting out the seemingly real-life scenario in their newest TV commercial for versatile creamer Cream All from Universal Robina Corporation (URC). Both women return to depict another entertaining moment that reflects their off-screen relationship.

“It was fun because it didn’t feel like work at all; it was a different kind of bonding experience talaga,” Jennica added. “We’re also very thankful to the creative team for making a concept na swak sa aming dalawa. “Sobrang positive and fun nung experience,” Jean shared. “We also enjoyed doing the first commercial. But during the shoot of the second one, we already knew the production people so sobrang saya. And iba rin kasi siyempre ‘pag may chemistry na sa ka-eksena mo. Magkatinginan lang kami ni Jennica, nagkakaintindihan na without having to say anything.”

It was a lighthearted and fun-filled shoot with the down-to-earth actresses and hotshot TVC director Jeorge Agcaoili. In the 30-seconder, Jean and Jennica showcase their real-life fondness for making their own favorite drinks—Buko Pandan Shake, Mais con Yelo and Rocky Road Cooler—at home with their favorite creamer. “Super sarap nung Rocky Road Cooler made with Cream All,” Jennica shared with a laugh, to which the youthful Jean confirmed: “Oo nga eh, naubos ni Jennica yung ginawa nila! Ako naman gusto ko yung buko pandan!”

With the perfect combination of Jean and Jennica, the versatile actresses effectively convey the wonders that Cream All can do for various drink recipes, and make daily bonding moments more fun and delicious. Learn more about the delicious drink recipes that Jean and Jennica Garcia love by visiting www.urc.com.ph/CreamAll.

The condo event you shouldn’t miss: SMDC Condo Craze

2011-06-12T20:08:00.000-07:00

Owning a unit at SM Wind Residences is a breeze with Condo Craze.

Condo Craze makes the affordable, five-star residential projects of SMDC, such as Sun Residences for students in the University Belt area, even more accessible.

Sea sells: With Condo Craze’s low reservation fees and lowest interest rates, you can easily avail of a unit like this at SM Sea Residences.

SMDC’s Condo Craze makes it even easier for young workers can now easily a unit at M Place.

As cities get dotted with towering condominiums, future homeowners are on the lookout for developments without skyscraping prices. Understanding this trend is SM Development Corporation (SMDC), the country’s fastest growing condominium developer, as it reinvents its payment schemes with SMDC Condo Craze, the biggest and first ever condo madness in the country.

Until June 20, SMDC Condo Craze will have exclusive offers to condo-hunters. Happening at the SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall and SM City North EDSA, the event brings the affordable, five-star residential projects of SMDC closer to those who are looking for their dream condo. SMDC Condo Craze will let future residents choose from the 14 SM Residences and M Place condominium projects, which are strategically located in the greater Manila area’s major commerce and lifestyle hubs. From the upscale district of Bel-Air Makati, the highly accessible Boni Avenue, to Manila’s university belt, the bustling Quezon City, and even at the cool and breezy resort city of Tagaytay – there is an SMDC condominium project to choose from.

Drop by the malls and see what the exciting buzz is all about. Avail of easy payments on Reservation Fees. Lowest interest rate of 5.75% for the first year of payment will be offered as well in partnership with Banco de Oro (BDO) and China Bank.

Do not miss the mad rush and be sure to catch the SMDC Condo Craze. Unlock the door to a vertical village by SMDC and live that urban lifestyle dream today.

Must-try twist: Tuna with pancit canton

2011-06-12T20:03:00.000-07:00

Versatile, nutritious and convenient, canned tuna has always been paired with rice and sandwiches. Now, another exciting and mouthwatering combination is offered by 555 Tuna, the nutritious, delicious, convenient and budget-friendly tuna, with the “Lamang Ka Na, Lucky Ka Pa” promo. The promo brings to Pinoy households the latest meal or snack time combo—tuna with pancit canton. In supermarkets now, every purchase of three cans of 555 Corned Tuna will come with free Lucky Me Pancit Canton.

With its healthy “sarap-ginisa” taste, 555 Corned Tuna spices up the pancit canton experience. From meal times to snack times, 555 Corned Tuna provides a savory, extra filling twist, helping you enjoy your favorite pancit canton in many ways. Top with 555 Corned Tuna in regular and chili variants for an extra kick.

“This promo is for people who want nothing less than a healthy and filling snack. The unique pairing of 555 Corned Tuna and pancit canton perfectly fits the bill. A lot of people love this delicious, budget-friendly combination as a dish to enjoy alone or with the company of friends and family,” shares Amor Macapagal, senior product manager of 555 Tuna. This promotion is available in supermarkets and grocery chains nationwide.

LRI Design Plaza celebrates 7th anniversary with Mañosa and Capili

2011-05-31T19:24:00.000-07:00

In celebration of its seventh year as the home of design and art aficionados, LRI Design Plaza featured two different exhibits that enlivened the metro’s arts scene in its 7th Anniversary Artists Series. The exhibits paid homage to world-class Filipino talent by top-billing two of the country’s influential artists, Ani ng Dangal Presidential Awardee for Visual Art Rosscapili and National Artist Francisco “Bobby” Mañosa.

ANALOGous: A Showcase of Retro and Classic Pieces

The LRI Design Plaza 7th Anniversary Artists Series was kicked-off by an eclectic treat perfect for audiophiles and lovers of visual art: Ross Capili’s ANALOGous: DeTubo + Debuho + Lumang Plaka + Bagong IDeya. The project, which was in collaboration with OneWorkshop and interior designer Pinky Peralta, showcased a mix of retro and classic pieces, offering a nostalgic repertoire of sound and interior design. Peralta had six set ups – Filipino Vernacular, Casual Classic, Modern Funky, Bohemian, Post Modern, and Retro spread that were complemented by tunes from vinyl records (long-playing record albums) and vintage deTubo amplifiers. Another highlight of the night was Heber Bartolome, famed Pinoy folk singer and founder of the protest band Banyuhay, who led a jamming session with his trademark hit Tayo’y Mga Pinoy. Guests young and old all sang along to the patriotic tune, successfully capping off Rosscapili’s successful opening night.

Design and architecture Beyond the Bahay-Kubo

The next exhibit paid tribute to indigenous architecture and design as pioneered by National Artist Bobby Mañosa through Beyond the Bahay-Kubo. The well-attended opening night welcomed top architects and leaders of the local interior design sphere, making the exhibit another successful reunion of artists at LRI Design Plaza.Featuring the trademark Mañosa motif of incorporating indigenous materials into structures, Beyond the Bahay-Kubo highlighted the artist’s works in buildings, resorts and residences, as well as his design philosophy via a display of scale models of his biggest projects and pictures of his past works. He also took time out to sign copies of his book, Designing Filipino: The Architecture of Francisco Mañosa, which was sold at the venue.

For seven years now, the LRI Design Plaza has been the renowned urban hub for art and design enthusiasts, offering statement pieces for those with discriminating tastes. Apart from housing top furniture showrooms and art galleries, it is also known as a meeting hub for artists and designers, where their talents are given the spotlight through exhibits and special events like the 7th Anniversary Artists Series’ ANALOGous and Beyond the Bahay-Kubo. For a showcase of world-class Filipino design and art pieces, visit LRI Design Plaza at 210 Nicanor Garcia Street, Bel-Air II, Makati City. For more information, call 895.1772 or 895.5470.

Xenical launches club new you with Zumba flair

2011-05-29T22:59:00.000-07:00

Obesity is the second leading cause of preventable deaths everywhere, causing at least 2.8 million adult deaths each year and compounding already serious ailments like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and stroke. Originally thought to only be a problem in developed countries, this epidemic has found its way to the Philippines as well. The National Nutrition and Health Survey of 2008 showed increasing trends across all age groups in the Philippines, particularly in adults over age 20. The prevalence of being overweight in this demographic is 21.4% while obesity is at a high 5.2%.

There has been a renewed and enthusiastic focus on healthy living over the past few years, perhaps as a consequence to these alarming statistics. However, some might need an extra push to reach their weight loss goals. Xenical® (generic name: Orlistat), the leader in weight loss pills, provides an effective weight management solution that helps its users achieve real and long-lasting results. Marketed by Roche Philippines, Inc., Xenical® has the highest quality formulation and is purer compared to other orlistats on the market.

People who couple regular Xenical® intake with a healthy diet and a moderate exercise regime will see results in as quickly as two weeks, and consistent consumption of this effective weight loss aid will not only lower weight but keep it from being regained.

As more and more Filipinos continue to win the war against obesity with Xenical®, the brand recently launched ‘Club New You’, a support group that provides the latest holistic weight loss methods through relevant content on www.newyou.com.ph.

Dedicated health consultants will monitor your progress and motivate you to keep up the good work, while members of your family feel the benefits of the New You as well.

Members of Club New You will enjoy perks such as discounts and special promotions at various gyms, restaurants, and retail establishments around the country!

Held recently at the Greenbelt Residences in Makati, the launch of Club New You saw members of the media and Xenical® users alike party the pounds away in an innovative and fun workout. Hosted by F.A.S.H TV personality Bianca Valerio, the launch enabled everyone to experience Zumba, the Latin aerobics craze that has been steadily spreading across the globe since the 1990s. Demonstrated by certified instructors, participants were able to enjoy the perks of losing weight and discover their own Latin Rhythm!

Aside from trimming the fat, Xenical® offers a new lease on life. As Xenical® Brand Manager emphasized, “Losing weight is the best way to start your journey towards overall wellness. Xenical® and Club New You are your partners towards a healthier, happier life. Find the New You today!”

For those interested in joining Club New You, simply visit www.newyou.com.ph or call the Xenical® hotline (02) 552 – XENI (9374) to avail of the free registration form. It will also be made available in participating doctors’ clinics, upcoming Xenical® events, and leading drugstores. Complete forms are to be submitted with ten empty Xenical® blister packs along with your name, address, contact details, and birth date to Club New You, P.O. Box 4061, Makati Central Post Office, Makati City1225, PH. Early registrants will automatically receive a week’s supply of Xenical® absolutely free. Find the New You today!

Sleekest and brightest smartphone, finally here

2011-05-27T00:44:00.000-07:00

LG Electronics, the company that has brought you reliable and stylish mobile phones, finally introduces a smartphone that is a product of extensive research and design innovation. The LG Optimus smartphone. Its thinnest portion at the ends of the unit measure at 6 mm while its thickest portion at 9.2 mm. It is one of the lightest phones, weighing only 109g.

The LG Optimus Black boasts of a bright display with NOVA which delivers optimal brightness and readability under any lighting conditions. The crystal-clear display also provides a more natural web browsing experience by displaying truer whites while simultaneously cutting energy consumption by 50 percent compared to conventional LCDs.

In addition, the LG Optimus Black is equipped with a collection of smart features designed to improve the user experience, such as Gesture UI, Wi-Fi Direct and a 2MP front-facing and 5MP back-facing camera. Its 1GHz processor ensures that your web browsing experience will not only be clear, but quick too.

The LG Optimus Black is also powered by Android™ 2.2 Froyo, which is upgradable to Android 2.3 Gingerbread.

The LG Optimus Black is priced at Php 19, 990.00. It is available in all LG Concept Stores and other authorized dealers nationwide by the first week of June.

About LG Electronics, Inc.
LG Electronics, Inc. (KSE: 066570.KS) is a global leader and technology innovator in consumer
electronics, mobile communications and home appliances, employing more than 80,000 people
working in 115 operations including 84 subsidiaries around the world. With 2010 global sales
of 55.8 trillion Korean won (USD 48.2 billion), LG comprises four business units – Home
Entertainment, Mobile Communications, Home Appliance, and Air Conditioning and Energy
Solution. LG is one of the world’s leading producers of flat panel TVs, audio and video products,
mobile handsets, air conditioners and washing machines. LG has signed a long-term agreement to
become both a Global Partner of Formula 1™ and a Technology Partner of Formula 1™. As part of
this top-level association, LG acquires exclusive designations and marketing rights as the official
consumer electronics, mobile phone and data processor of this global sporting event. For more
information, please visit www.lg.com

Jazzing up Reposo – the cultural heart of Makati

2011-05-26T19:02:00.000-07:00

When you hear that passion and soul, feel its beating emotion and sense the impeccable work that went into making it –you know that’s jazz. From this same foundation of artistry and masterful creation comes an exciting new development from the good guys at SM Development Corporation (SMDC), the much-awaited Jazz Residences.

This sprawling 2.5 hectare prime property is located at Metropolitan and Nicanor Garcia (formerly Reposo) streets and will be home to a community where art, music, and life come together perfectly. Amidst the bustling Makati business district, the Jazz Residences is at the heart a growing cultural center where a unique mix of establishments can make every moment

Passionate living in the heart of Makati

Surround yourself in art and style with the LRI Design Plaza and Alliance Francaise being just a few of the places around to feed your imagination. If it’s a passion for good food, L’Incontro, Le Coude Rouge, and Mickey’s Delicatessen are in the neighborhood of many great places for you to enjoy authentic cuisine. You can also turn artistic craft into a profession at the Center for Aesthetic Studies (CAS), and Chef Rob Pengson’s school for culinary and hospitality services, Global Academy, which are also in the vicinity.

Jazz Residences is where your love for art and culture become a lifestyle that is your own. This grand four-tower development spurs harmony, beauty and creativity through its motif and design in addition to facilities that are both luxuriously modern and functional. Life is made easier with the convenience of commercial establishments in its five-storey podium, which includes its own SM Mall and SM Hypermarket.

Cool cultural revival in Reposo

To usher in the beginning of this lifestyle renaissance, SMDC is partnering with the distinguished Grupo Reposo, a group of renowned artists under the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCAA), in launching “Reposo Day” as a way of celebrating local arts and culture.

Themed “Tuklas Sining sa Reposo”, it will take place this coming May 28 as part of the annual Makati Foundation Day celebration now in its 341st year and is sure to start this cultural revival with a blast. The event will be graced by Vice-President Jejomar Binay, Makati Mayor Jejomar Irwin Binay Jr. and Bel-Air Barangay Chairwoman Constancia Lichauco. There will also be exciting activities and a great lineup of performers like Jon Santos, the UP Singing Ambassadors and Teatro “We welcome SMDC’s Jazz Residences in the Reposo neighborhood and as an invaluable partner of Grupo Reposo. Aside from Reposo Day, we will be collaborating with Jazz Residences for projects that would help cultivate Reposo as a cultural center in Makati,” said Ed Soler, incumbent chairman of Grupo Reposo.

Grupo Reposo artworks in Jazz Residences

On Reposo Day on May 28, Jazz Residences will be showcasing the wonderful artworks of Grupo showroom on the 2nd Floor of Crown Center, Metroplitan corner N. Garcia Streets, Bel-Air, Makati City. Jazz Residences unit owners and new unit buyers can avail of these artworks by prominent local artists at exclusive discounts.

Together with Grupo Reposo, SMDC is breathing new life into the local arts and culture scene, paving the way for a vibrant, cultured and sophisticated Makati. Imagine creating something beautiful out of your passions, making every moment a unique experience and living every day to your own beat and rhythm – make it yours at SMDC Jazz Residences.

Those interested to have their own prime residential space in Makati can contact SMDC Jazz Residences today. The development’s affordable, five-star homes start at P1.9 million with a monthly amortization of P11,000. For more inquiries pls. call us at 858-0300 or 0917-500-5151 or visit our website at www.smresidences.com.

A C2 summer to remember

2011-05-26T18:54:00.000-07:00

With the rainy season here, how wonderful it is to treasure the memories of summer when C2 green tea kept things cool and clean with the recently concluded C2 “Sarap ng Summer” Stations in the country’s favorite summer destinations. With bottles of lip-smacking C2 within easy reach, vacationers and adventurers truly enjoyed a more refreshing escapade with this ready-to-drink green tea beverage.

Continuing C2’s yearly effort to make summer doubly exciting, the C2 “Sarap ng Summer” Stations visited the famous Boracay beach where it crowned chosen beach babes as C2 Envidia’s Summer Body to Envy. C2 likewise climbed the breezy mountains of Baguio and partied with the crowds in Puerto Galera. In these chill-out places, the C2 booths became an oasis of refreshments as it offered a line-up of beverages from Universal Robina Corporation (URC) including C2 Green Tea, C2 Envidia, Yin Yang Cooling Tea, Coffee Twist Iced Black Coffee, Hidden Spring Mineral Water, Xplode Energy Drink and the company’s newest ready-to-drink juice, OMJ! Oh My Juice. Passers-by also took home premium items from C2 such as swim balls, swim rings and cool bottle holders. The free Poi, Yoga, Tai Chi and Hip-Hop sessions were also highlights of the day for people who wished to enjoy the summer while enhancing their bodies.

A perfect drink for those who celebrate healthy living, C2 Green Tea is made from 100 percent natural green tea leaves of Camellia sinensis and bottled on the same day, locking in all the goodness of green tea. For that enviable summer body for all seasons, C2 Envidia contains no sugar, and its healthy ingredients L-carnitine and EGCG work together to flush the body’s toxins. Together, these C2 drinks make every summer twice as relaxing, refreshing, and deliciously healthy.

The world is a playground this summer for Jollibee Kids Scouts

2011-05-24T18:26:00.000-07:00

Summer couldn’t get any better with the Jollibee Kid Scout program, the flagship activity of the Jollibee Kids Club (JKC).

The six-day program exclusively for JKC members offers workshops that will inspire kids to develop skills and learn more about themselves on many different levels. Set in a lively and nurturing environment, these in-store activities assure moms that their children can explore the many facets of their personalities. Through the Jollibee Kid Scout program, kids can grow beyond the four walls of their home and also beyond school.

Participants can enjoy thrilling games, values and personality development and arts and crafts workshops. They are also given the chance to get hands-on during the make-your-own snack activity where they also learn about how their favorite store operates behind-the-scenes. The summer program will be capped off with a graduation day where the children’s achievements are recognized in front of their proud parents.

With more than 500 participating Jollibee stores and over a hundred thousand members nationwide, JKC continues to provide children a grand time through many different activities that help them become well-rounded individuals. Moms can immerse their kids in the fun Jollibee experience this summer and beyond by signing them up for the JKC Jollibee Kid Scout program. All they need to do is drop by the nearest participating Jollibee store and a friendly store crew member will gladly assist them.

Jollibee Kids Club extends a helping hand to parents in making kids be the best they can be through creative activities such as the Jollibee Kid Scout program. Parents of non-JKC members can sign up their child for a JKC membership in select Jollibee branches. For inquiries, call (02)898-7777.

Champion your cheesiness with Greenwich Cheesy Hour

2011-05-23T00:51:00.000-07:00

Declare your cheesiness with Greenwich Cheesy Hour and get the chance to win a magnificent Mt. Pinatubo sky tour with your barkada.

Aching to speak your heart out and drop that cheesy line? Giving the no-holds-barred cheesiness of Pinoys the space to shine is the country’s biggest pizza chain, Greenwich. The latest promo from the company that brought you the Xtreme Cheese pizzas, Greenwich’s Cheesy Hour puts the spotlight on the cool cheesiness that Pinoys proudly get away with.

In Greenwich’s newest contest, sentimental dialogue and mushy one-liners can pave the way for a breathtaking sky tour, and all the possibilities for romance that great views, close settings, and well-meaning friends can present. Greenwich Pizza calls on all aspiring Romeos (and Juliets) to wear their hearts on their sleeves – or more, appropriately, their Facebook walls – and join Greenwich Cheesy Hour for a daily dose of cheesy love and Xtreme Cheese pizza.

To join, post the most creative, unique, and funny declaration of love on your Facebook wall, tag your loved one and at least two friends to witness your cheesy confession during designated Cheesy Hours.

Make sure to friend the Greenwich Pizza Barkada and tag it on your post to validate your entry.

Cheesy Hours are announced randomly – there are three Cheesy Hours in a day, and entries will only be accepted at these times. Daily winners will be selected based on creativity, originality, impact, and number of Likes. No need to lay it on thick, participants are only allowed Cheesy Hour post per day. Each Cheesy Hour winner will receive a Greenwich Xtreme Cheese family pizza of their choice –Bacon Burger Melt Overload, Philly Cheese Steak Overload, or 7-Cheese – to be delivered right at their doorstep. Two winners from the daily rounds will be selected as finalists to vie for the grand prize, a sky tour ride over majestic Mt. Pinatubo to witness the dawn of a shared future, or the romantic possibilities of the night. To help document all cheesy moments for future Facebook consumption, the prize also includes two tour slots for the couple’s friends.

A gallery of all finalists will be created on the Greenwich Pizza Barkada Facebook page on the last week of the Cheesy Hour promo, to help people choose and vote for their favorite lines. The entry with the most number of ‘likes’ wins the grand prize. The promo will end on May 27, 2011.

For more information, visit http://www.facebook.com/GreenwichPizza

LG's next generation TV coming to PHL this May

2011-05-16T00:26:00.000-07:00

Manila, May 10, 2011 – LG Electronics (LG) will redefine the meaning of home entertainment this May 2011. Get ready to be amazed as LG unveils an ingenious product range of Next Generation TVs that aims to evolve the viewer experience to higher grounds. “LG is presenting a new vision of how consumers can live simply smarter, enjoying LG TV with their family and friends,” said Cyd Montebon, Product Marketing Head of LG Electronics Philippines. “With our cutting edge technology, and easy-to-use features, LG’s new CINEMA 3DTM TVs and Smart TVs are a perfect starting point for Filipinos who are eager to step into a new world of TV experience.”

CINEMA 3D TV

One of LG’s highlights this year is the new LG CINEMA 3DTM, which boasts the first third-party endorsed “flicker free” 3D images, along with more comfortable 3D glasses, a brighter 3D pictures and offers a wider viewing angle. Together, these features make it more comfortable than ever for viewers to enjoy 3D contents with their loved ones in the comfort of their homes.

“Having used LG’s expertise in developing a new 3D technology, we were able to address consumer concerns about 3D, such as flickering which caused discomfort and dizziness, and limited viewing angle, today LG is very pleased to offer a real breakthrough in 3D with LG CINEMA 3DTM TV in the Philippines,” Montebon said. “LG CINEMA 3D will be a real game changer in 3D TV, pushing 3D viewing to new depths and contrasts of excitement and taking 3D technology firmly into the mainstream of home entertainment worldwide.”

Smart TV

With its “Point, Click, Control, Simply Smarter” capabilities, LG’s Smart TV lets users access the best of the internet directly on the big screen in a way that’s easier and smarter. With motion sensing technology, the Magic Motion Remote Control offers single click access, by letting viewers drag and drop, just like a PC. On a single screen the Home Dashboard makes it easy to navigate through entertainment options.

Another creative feature is the TVs Smart Share function which allows users to wirelessly stream all their favorite music, videos and photos stored from one’s laptop, tablet or Smart Phone, and access simultaneous meta data – including actor profiles or movie synopses –about whatever movie they’re watching.

LG’s Smart TV offers top-quality content from global and Pan-Asian providers as well as specially selected local video-on-demand contents that relevant to Filipino viewers. In addition, a fast-growing list of LG Apps offers services from lifestyle and education to entertainment and games.

More surprising announcements will be revealed on how LG will boost TV market share this

year with its Next Generation TVs.

Avon celebrates its 125th year with a big, bold, beautiful party

2011-05-11T21:01:00.000-07:00

It began as a small town California Perfume Company founded by David McConnell with just one representative selling a single product. One hundred twenty-five years later, it has become a global leader in direct-selling with a portfolio ranging from cosmetics, fragrance, skincare, jewelry and accessories to intimate apparel. That’s the story of Avon, the company for women. In the course of 125 years, Avon did not just bring beauty to doors but also offered the best earning opportunities for
approximately 6.5 million independent Representatives across the globe and empowered them to find financial independence.

In the Philippines, Avon celebrates this milestone by staging one Big, Bold, Beautiful Party!

Held at Manila’s trendiest night spot, Republiq, the event gathered the most beautiful and fashionable celebrities, VIP media guests and Avon’s top executives and Representatives. Hosted by Avon Fashions Style Ambassador Ruffa Gutierrez and singer-songwriter Billy Crawford, the evening was a celebration of everything that has helped Avon become a global leader: empowered Representatives, breakthrough beauty products and championing of women’s causes.

“Tonight is a momentous occasion for Avon as we celebrate 125 years of empowering women, which has always been and continues to be our commitment, our reason for being and the power behind our success,” said Avon Philippines President and General Manager Mike Gudgin. “Our success is anchored on our belief in our purpose to help make a significant difference in women’s lives. This purpose remains and we boldly step forward believing in the strength of this purpose: providing women with the best in beauty products, helping them become the best through our earning opportunities and being their best champion when it comes to causes that are important to them.”

Avon’s Big, Bold, Beautiful Party was the perfect venue to see this purpose come to life. The celebration was highlighted by the introduction of amazing new products from Avon’s Color, Skincare, Intimate Apparel, Jewelry and Accessories lines as well as its newest initiative in support of the domestic violence crusade.

AVON COLOR

Kicking off the festivities was the big, bold, beauty news from Avon’s Color line. The evening took on a dramatic color as Avon introduced its latest lipstick: Ultra Moisture Rich Moisture Seduction Lipstick. The FIRST lipstick of its kind, Moisture Seduction has rich creamy color intertwined with visible ribbons of hydrating moisture for seductively dewy lips. Moisture intensely hydrates lips and activates color to rise to the surface so color blooms richer cleaner and bolder. Moisture saturates, color captivates... In one seductive lipstick.

“As the company for women, Avon is committed to find ways to fulfill women’s beauty needs by providing them with the best beauty products,” said Christa Jacinto-Sarao, Avon Southeast Asia Cluster Associate Category Manager for Avon Color. “Our newest Ultra Moisture Rich Moisture Seduction Lipstick is in perfect keeping with that commitment. We are also happy to fortify Avon’s makeup leadership as the No. 1 makeup brand in the country with primetime TV celebrity Angel Locsin as our Color Ambassador and now with makeup expert, Lala Flores, who steps onboard as Avon Color Creative Consultant. Avon deserves no less than being partners with iconic and credible names in the realm of beauty.”

Lala Flores and Angel Locsin were on hand to launch the Ultra Moisture Rich Moisture Seduction Lipstick. Lala boldly declared this lipstick as a makeup kit must-have because of its versatility – as it keeps the lips moisturized and protected from the sun’s harmful rays. “Women nowadays are getting more practical about their makeup. If you are looking for a lipstick that will stick with you through any weather, help you keep your lips looking youthful despite the cold winds or the summer heat, Avon’s Ultra Moisture Rich Moisture Seduction Lipstick is the IT lipstick. It provides intense moisture and rich color for captivating lips,” said Lala.

The makeup expert also shared that the focus on lips is trending in the makeup realm this year. Avon’s Ultra Moisture Rich Moisture Seduction Lipstick is a woman’s perfect companion for this rising trend.

AVON SKINCARE

The Color beauty launch was tailgated by another exciting introduction from Avon’s skincare arsenal. The evening set the stage for the unveiling of the newest addition to Avon’s Anew 360° White line, the Anew 360º White Ultra UV Shield SPF 50/PA+++. This lightweight SPF50/PA+++ formula protects the skin from darkening, boasting of Double-Shield Sun Protection Technology
that will form the ‘3D auto-security system’ to actively defend the skin from its first contact with UVA/UVB.

“As the pioneer in transformative, anti-aging breakthroughs since 1992, Anew has been making multi-million dollar investments in skin research and innovation and working with an international team of experts to give women only the best and latest from the world of scientific skincare in every Anew product,” said Carla Enage-Cruz, Avon Southeast Asia Cluster Category Head for Skincare. “Once more we take whitening to a new dimension through the Anew 360° White Ultra UV Shield SPF50/PA+++. Our whitening approach provides non-stop whitening and skin vitality.” Anew 360° White has the exclusive 360° Whitality Technology for brighter, healthier and bouncy skin that glows and whitens from within. The concept of ‘whitality’ synergizes whitening and vitality that results in flawless, vibrant white skin aglow with health.

International stage actress and Anew Ambassador Lea Salonga, looking all aglow and blooming, sang for the guests to introduce this new skincare breakthrough. Lea shared she has been able to maintain her youthful glow despite a busy career by trusting Avon, having been involved with the brand since 1994. Now, she entrusts her skin care needs to Avon’s Anew. Anew has helped her gain fairer, more revitalized and more vibrant skin.

SPEAK OUT AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Since its launch here in the Philippines, the company for women’s Speak Out Against Domestic Violence campaign has continually led initiatives to encourage awareness on the reality of domestic abuse, help end the cycle of family violence through education, and raise funds to aid selected Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) who have existing programs and services that
support this critical issue.

On its 125th year, Avon drives the crusade forward, enlisting the help of ace photographer Raymund Isaac. Isaac garnered the participation of A-list celebrities ― including Ruffa Gutierrez, Boy Abunda and Amanda Griffin-Jacob ― as subjects of a series of photographs that underline the realities of domestic violence.

One of the summit’s highlights was a ‘preview’ of the anticipated exhibit, in the form of an impactful, sensory video created by Isaac himself. The video showcased 3 domestic violence survivors who bravely shared their stories. It was a touching moment when Ruffa Gutierrez revealed that the 3 women were actually present at the event and called them onstage.

With the Speak Out Against Domestic Violence campaign and through Isaac’s imagery, Avon hopes to rein in more support from the public and encourage victims to break the silence and speak out.

The Speak Out Against Domestic Violence Exhibit by Raymund Isaac is scheduled for June 2011. Avon is offering SSS Soft & White Cellulite Minimizer Hand and Body Lotion for the same month; the proceeds of which are earmarked for the fund.

AVON FASHIONS 2011 SUMMER COLLECTION

Captivating the guests was the sizzling summer collection of Avon Fashions. Models sashayed down the runway donning stunning pieces of intimate apparel, jewelry and accessories. Five fashion collections namely, Retro in the City, Plaid and Plenty, Shimmer Sensation, Blissful Moments and All That Blossoms featured statement pieces that let you shift from classy and sophisticated to casually funky.

“Avon Fashions remains true to its promise of delivering exclusive and quality fashion pieces at exceptional value. Aside from using only quality material, our intimate apparel pieces are especially Asian-fitted. This same commitment is what makes Avon Fashions the No. 1 Intimate Apparel brand bought by most women in the country,” said Patricia de Leon-Rodriguez, Southeast Asia Category Manager for Avon Fashions Intimate Apparel.

The Avon Fashions 2011 Jewelry and Accessories Summer Collection offers the Avon woman with an array of pieces perfect for every occasion, from casual to sophisticated wear.

Ending the event on a truly jubilant note, Avon Philippines President and General Manager, Mike Gudgin, joined by Avon’s roster of celebrity endorsers, shared a toast signaling the mark of a new milestone in Avon’s history.

It was indeed a night to remember – from the event’s star-studded celebration to the prompting of the advancement of women’s causes – and Avon, without a doubt, is set to plot out more years of being the only company that best understands and addresses the needs of women all over the world.

Cream All offers refreshing drinks to keep the summer vibe alive

2011-05-11T20:46:00.000-07:00

For those who wish to continue making the most of the last stretch of this hot season, Cream All offers these cool beverage recipes for a never-ending taste of summer.

Cream All Buko Pandan Shake

Ingredients:
1 coconut, meat shredded and juice set aside
6 ice cubes
2 tablespoons sugar dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon Cream All dissolved in 250 ml hot water
2 tablespoons buko pandan jelly

Procedure:
Put buko juice, ice cubes, sugar and Cream All mixture into a blender, and puree until smooth. Place shredded coconut meat and buko pandan jelly into a glass then pour in the shake.

Cream All Rocky Road Cooler

Ingredients:
3 cups crushed ice
2 tablespoons Cream All dissolved in 250ml hot water
1 cup chocolate syrup
3 tablespoons chopped peanuts
1 cup marshmallows

Procedure:
Put chocolate syrup, ice, sugar and Cream All mixture in a blender, then puree the mixture until it’s smooth. Pour the mixture into a glass and top with chopped peanuts and marshmallows before serving.
With Cream All, basking in the summer sun or catching up on your DVDs can become an extra tasty experience. It is a versatile partner for making great drink combinations -- from coffee, chocolate, and tea, to many other beverages such as the Cream All Buko Pandan Shake and Cream All Rocky Road Cooler. By replacing the usual ice cream or full-cream or evaporated milk in these recipes with Cream All, you can save as much as P32 every serving and minimize fat intake with its zero gram trans-fat promise. For more recipes, visit the URC website at http://www.urc.com.ph/CreamAll. Available in leading groceries and supermarkets nationwide.

Twist away the summer heat

2011-05-11T20:36:00.000-07:00

With summer season still upon us, make the most of your sunny days by adding a twist to your usual pursuits. Coffee Twist, the delicious ready-to-drink coffee drink from Universal Robina Corporation (URC), counts the ways to put a cool new spin on summer activities.

Help out on a holiday
Summer is road trip season, and while planning your itinerary, consider including a meaningful twist. Check out non-profit organizations or outreach programs based in your target holiday destination, and lend a helping hand while you’re in town. Take a few hours to meet the locals, find out about the issues and needs that are relevant to them – and bring home a worthwhile experience, instead of just souvenirs. After an uplifting session, share a Coffee Twist with your newfound friends and enjoy the long talks and happy banter.

Learn a new language
Soak up the culture and history of another country by learning to speak in their mother tongue. Various cultural centers and language learning facilities offer special summer courses that provide basic conversational skills for the savvy traveler. Help keep your mind sharp by drinking Coffee Twist, for just the right caffeine rush that can help you stay awake and alert for each lesson.

Be an urban nomad
If you can’t go out of the city for a summer escapade, then it’s time to explore the urban jungle. Take a different route – leave the car at home and commute. Or if you take public transport, perhaps a walking tour is in order. Check out the walking tours organized by Carlos Celdran or Ivan Man Dy and rediscover Manila. Revel in the everyday sights and sounds that you take for granted. See the world from a new perspective. After a day of exploration, wind down with an ice-cold bottle of Coffee Twist, be it in Classic, Hazelnut or Orange flavor.

Fly a kite
Nothing spells freedom more than a brisk run in an open field, kite in hand, and the afternoon breeze in your hair. Kites can be bought in all colors, shapes, and sizes, but for those feeling nostalgic, try making it by hand, with barbecue sticks and Japanese paper. Pack a picnic while you’re at it, with your favorite snacks and Coffee Twist, and enjoy the sunset after your kite run. Whatever summer activity you choose, Coffee Twist is the ideal drinking companion. The most energizing way to stay refreshed, Coffee Twist is available at a suggested retail price of P10.50 per bottle in leading supermarkets, groceries, convenience stores, and gas stations nationwide.

Show real love for Mom with El Real Pasta

2011-05-08T20:04:00.000-07:00

Moms always try to make every day special by preparing simple but delicious meals. Repay her kindness with a grand gesture this coming Mother’s Day. Express your love to mom on this special day by preparing delightful pasta dishes using Universal Robina Corporation’s (URC) EL REAL Pasta. A tried and tested ingredient for moms, offer EL REAL will add a loving touch to your delectable Mother’s Day offering.

Easy to prepare, the Quick-cook EL REAL Pasta comes in CURLY Macaroni for a playful and fun eating experience and FLAT Spaghetti that’s perfect with mommy’s favorite sauce. A limited-edition EL REAL carry-all bag also comes free with every purchase of EL REAL Spaghetti 1kg, a thoughtful gift for moms courtesy of EL REAL. Available until supplies last. Avail now of this quality pasta and follow this recipe for a scrumptious Mother’s Day surprise.

Chicken and Assorted Mushrooms Pasta

1 tablespoon oil
¼ cup onions, thinly sliced
¼ cup button mushrooms, chopped
¼ cup straw mushrooms, chopped
¼ cup tomato paste
2 tablespoons brown sugar
¼ cup unsalted butter or margarine
2 cups EL REAL Curly Macaroni, cooked to package directions
To taste salt and pepper
5 pieces chicken nuggets, fried and sliced

In a pan, sauté onions, button and straw mushrooms. Add tomato paste, sugar and butter. Cook for 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Toss in cooked EL REAL Curly Macaroni and mix. Transfer to a plate and top with fried chicken nuggets. Serve.

Sunrise Pasta

1 tablespoon oil
½ cup onions, minced
2 tablespoons garlic, minced
¼ cup tinapa, cooked and flaked
½ cup all-purpose cream
2 pieces eggs, beaten
To taste salt and pepper
3 cups EL REAL Flat Spaghetti, cooked to package directions

For garnishing: tomatoes chopped, spring onions, chopped

Sauté onions, garlic and tinapa in a pan. Add all-purpose cream and simmer for a minute, then season with salt and pepper. Toss in EL REAL FLAT Spaghetti and mix. Take the pan off the flame and add eggs. Transfer to a plate and garnish with tomatoes and spring onions. Serve.

With the superior taste and texture of EL REAL Pasta, mothers will definitely feel loved with these special pasta meals. More importantly, the simple but meaningful gesture will make the coming Mother’s Day truly memorable for moms, and for the whole family as well.

Bianca Gonzalez on overall wellness

2011-05-05T01:56:00.000-07:00

Aside from being one of the country’s most sought-after hosts, Bianca Gonzalez is also an advocate of holistic wellness. Seen five times a week on TV, Bianca remains fit mentally, physically and spiritually despite living a busy schedule.

Here, the pretty morena shares how she keeps in top shape, and how Yin Yang, Universal Robina Corporation’s (URC) newest beverage innovation, helps her achieve holistic wellness and be the supergirl that she is.

Food for the brain

With over two hundred thousand followers on Twitter, Bianca’s short random updates on food, showbiz, the FIFA World Cup, and even some anecdotes from her showbiz friends are her form of neural exercise. When she feels like going more
in-depth about the things she is most passionate about, she pours her heart out in her popular blog (www.superbianca.blogspot.com). She also enjoys traveling to different local and international destinations, filling her mind with the rich cultures and learning that she gets from each trip. Truly, Bianca’s active online and travel life serves as her daily dietary supplement for the brains.

Food for the envious figure

It is no secret that Bianca’s slender figure is not a product of regular trips to the gym. Her fitness regimen consists of running, dancing, yoga and pilates— Bianca does not adhere to strict training programs or diets. Not depriving herself for her love of Thai, Japanese, Italian and Vietnamese food, it is also Bianca’s natural habit of tea-drinking that makes it okay for the young
celebrity to indulge in such delicacies. “Sometimes eating too much fatty, oily food—like yung mga fried and yung mga spicy food—may have adverse effects on the body like causing pimples and hypertension,” Bianca shares. “So ako, I always
have tea like Yin Yang Cooling Tea after I eat, just to help lessen the chances of having these effects.” URC’s newest, refreshing ready-to-drink tea is made of freshly brewed green tea leaves of Camellia sinensis with three other traditional herbs, namely Mesona chinesis benth, Liquorice root, and Chrysanthemum flower which the Chinese believe helps provide a therapeutic cooling effect on the body. Perfectly blended with a delectable black gulaman flavor, Yin Yang Cooling Tea is the perfect match to any hot, rich or spicy meal.

Food for the soul

For spiritual fulfillment, it is her social projects and active involvement with UNICEF that round up Bianca’s cycle of wellness. By helping children get the right education and sharing her blessings, she is able to nourish her soul. “Wellness, for me, can only be achieved by living a well-balanced life,” Bianca said. “Your mental, physical, and spiritual activities must work together to let you have a better, more meaningful life.” Take it from Bianca. More than a beautiful face, she truly lives and breathes holistic wellness—and it shows. Heed her wise tips today, starting with something basic like drinking Yin Yang cooling tea, and watch your well-being bloom.

World's first super phone coming to Philippines in May

2011-04-27T22:30:00.000-07:00

LG Collaborate with NVIDIA to Demonstrate the Power of Speed

Manila, Apr. 28, 2011 — LG Electronics today announced in Manila the imminent market availability of the world’s first smartphone with a dual core processor, the LG Optimus 2X (P990). During the announcement, LG Electronics collaborated with NVIDIA, the graphics processor powerhouse, to showcase the message of speed and efficiency in the world’s first super phone.

LG Optimus, meaning ‘best’ in Latin, is comprised of devices running on a range of popular operating systems and Android Tablet PC. The Optimus series is the result of extensive consumer research and development that delved into the way average people gather information in today’s digital age.

Approaching Philippine market in May 2011, LG Optimus 2x is equipped with NVIDIA® Tegra™ 2 dual-core processor, which runs at a clock speed of 1GHz and boasts low power consumption and high performance for playing video and audio. Not only does the LG Optimus 2X mean more powerful multimedia features, the Tegra 2 processor makes for faster, smoother web browsing and multitasks with virtually no screen lag. The LG Optimus 2X offers 1080p HD video playback and recording, adding to the industry new contents mirroring through HDMI interface and expanding content on external displays to Full HD quality. The LG Optimus 2X can connect wirelessly to any DLNA-compatible digital device such as HD TVs for a console-like gaming experience, taking full advantage of the phone’s mirroring through HDMI, accelerometer and gyro sensor.

In addition, it incorporates a 4-inch WVGA LCD Full Touch Screen as well as an 8.0 mega pixel camera: a perfect pairing to capture those all-important moments which can easily be shared on social networking sites anywhere, anytime.

Mr. Richard Javier, mobile communications head of LG Electronics Philippines explains, “This is only the beginning in our intelligent smartphone series. LG is a pioneer in mobile communications and we aim to continue developing innovative technology and providing convenient mobile communications experience for our customers in the near future.” Javier believes that the LG Optimus 2X is a great achievement for the company and exceeds expectations in the smartphone industry.

Powered by Android™ 2.2, which is upgradable to 2.3, LG Optimus 2X provides a unique mobile experience allowing for more possibilities while on the go. Furthermore, users can enjoy nearly 150,000 apps through the Android Market™.

Enjoy the merry month of May with EL REAL Pasta recipes

2011-04-26T23:36:00.000-07:00

In May, the festival fun kicks in: summer festivities with colorful decorations, flamboyant costumes, lively music, and overflowing delicious delicacies are being enjoyed in different parts of the country. Joining these vibrant celebrations is EL REAL Pasta as it offers two delectable recipes to add to the month’s merriment.

El Real Party Spaghetti

Ingredients:
¼ cup oil
5 cloves garlic, chopped
1 ¼ cups onions, chopped
500 grams ground beef
5 pieces hotdogs, sliced
4 ½ cups tomato sauce
2 ¼ cups spaghetti sauce
2 ¼ cups banana ketchup
3 ½ cups beef stock
¾ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
¾ cup sugar
1 kilogram EL REAL Spaghetti, cooked to package directions
1 ½ cups cheese, grated

Procedure:
Heat oil in a saucepan then sauté garlic and onions for a minute. Add in ground beef and cook it until it achieves light brown color. Add in hotdog and continue cooking for another minute. Blend in tomato sauce, spaghetti sauce, banana
ketchup and beef stock. Simmer until the sauce is slightly thick. Season the sauce with salt, pepper and sugar to taste. Afterwards, toss in EL REAL Spaghetti and drizzle with cheese. This serves 12-15 persons.

Savor the delicious festival fun with friends and family with EL REAL Party Spaghetti

Longganiza Macaroni Salad

Ingredients:
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup all-purpose cream
½ cup condensed milk
1 cup garlic longganiza, boiled and chopped
¾ cup pineapple chunks
½ cup quick-melt cheese (or kesong puti or any processed cheese)
4 teaspoons red bell peppers, chopped
4 teaspoons cashew nuts, roughly chopped
400 grams EL REAL Salad Macaroni, cooked to package directions
Garnish parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Procedure:
Combine mayonnaise, all-purpose cream and condensed milk in a bowl then toss in all of the ingredients. Chill before serving. This serves 10-12 persons. For an exciting and more convenient twist, use EL REAL Curly Macaroni which cooks in only five minutes as an alternative to EL REAL Salad Macaroni.

Cook these EL REAL recipes for the whole family and for the whole barangay for unforgettable and meaningful festival celebrations. The affordable, delicious and convenient EL REAL Pasta is available in leading groceries and supermarkets nationwide.

EL REAL comes in spaghetti, elbow macaroni, salad macaroni and Quick Cook FLAT Spaghetti which cooks in only six minutes and Curly Macaroni which cooks in only five minutes.

Celebrate the month of May with the delectable and easy-to-prepare EL REAL Longganiza Macaroni Salad

Set the pace for fun family time this summer with El Real Pasta

Nike Trainer 1.3 Max Limited Release on April 27

2011-04-26T00:12:00.000-07:00

Manila, April 25, 2011 | Nike Philippines announced today the launch of only 50 pairs of the Nike Trainer 1.3 Max on April 27 exclusively at Nike Park The Fort as a lead up to Manny Pacquiao’s next fight against “Sugar” Shane Mosley on May 7, 2011.

Designed for the multisport athlete looking for a training shoe with excellent cushioning, durability and stability, the Nike Trainer 1.3 Max includes Nike’s top innovations including Flywire and Max Air technologies.

As Manny’s daily running shoe, the Nike Trainer 1.3 Max provides a soft and comfortable ride after hours of rigorous, high-impact training in the gym. With mesh zones for cooling, the shoe is ideal for year-round use in hot climates such as Los Angeles and General Santos, Philippines, where the “Pac Man: has been training for his upcoming bout.

“If you practice hard, you can win every battle,” says Manny. This mantra holds true for athletes throughout the world who realize winning starts with training.

A lottery will be held for the 50 pairs at Nike Park The Fort on April 27, 2011. Ballots will be distributed starting 5pm and the lottery will begin exactly at 7pm. The Nike Trainer 1.3 Max retails at P7,995.

A full Manny Pacquiao-inspired collection of apparel and the Nike Zoom Huarache Low will also be available at select Nike stores beginning April 27.

Stellar chef lineup at the 15th World Gourmet Summit in Singapore

2011-04-25T23:59:00.001-07:00

"The Garden"

Every year, gourmands from around the world have been making their culinary crusade to the Lion City to take part in the much-anticipated World Gourmet Summit (WGS), Singapore’s most renowned dining event. Celebrating its 15th year, the summit gathers thousands of chefs, culinary critics and gourmet food enthusiasts in a 14-day event replete with workshops, master classes, cooking demonstrations and wine tastings.

According to the organiser of the event, Peter A Knipp, CEO, Peter Knipp Holdings Pte Ltd, “Top-notch chefs from all over the world participate at WGS each year. Securing a seat to dine at their prestigious dining establishments back home could mean a waitlist of weeks, or even months on end, so having them come all the way here is indeed a privilege that should not be missed.”

Among the world-renowned chefs who will be showcasing their pièces de résistance at the World Gourmet Summit include award-winning foie gras master chef Michael Ginor and Singapore’s breakthrough dessert chef Janice Wong. Both culinary stars are set to inspire Filipino gourmands and foodies with wine-paired feasts, allowing them privy to their cooking secrets.

Chef Janice Wong is set to sweeten Singapore’s biggest gourmet festival with a showcase of her innovative plated desserts that will be expertly paired with wine.

Gastronomic journey into foie gras

World-famous Chef Michael Ginor has been setting the standard in foie gras cooking, pioneering the Hudson Valley Foie Gras, the most comprehensive producer of the ingredient in the world. In his 20-year career that began with a passion for foie gras, he has filled his toque with numerous awards like the Five Star Diamond Award from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences and the Award of Excellence from the American Tasting Institute and he has successfully established his acclaimed restaurants TLV and Lola, and his own television show called Runaway Chef.

In this year’s World Gourmet Summit, Chef Ginor will give guests a once-in-a lifetime learning experience as he whips up dishes expertly paired with champagne. Guests will be spoilt for choice with his six-course menu that includes a delightful tuna tartare with nori-cured foie gras and a crème brulee of foie gras paired with duck and mustard fruit. “I love to teach and I love to travel. I love people coming in and learning new ways of using a product or a new technique, and I’m excited to share my passion for foie gras and American culinary aesthetics. Hopefully, Filipino participants will return to the Philippines with something they have never seen before,” he says.

One of the pioneers who made the World Gourmet Summit a resounding success, Chef Ginor also treats the gathering as a platform to further hone his culinary craft. “I’m always excited to be part of this event because it’s a kind of cross-cultural culinary experience. As much as we bring our own experience, whether it’s with foie gras or our own techniques to share with the local people and the visiting chefs, we also learn new products and new techniques from the local cuisine,” he says.

Chef Ginor has always been a fan of Southeast Asian cuisine, especially the appetizing street food of Singapore. He takes inspiration from the Lion City’s hawker fare and creates timeless dishes that offer the distinctive Singaporean spice and flavor. Right now, he offers on his menu his own take on laksa that features lobster meat with the classic spicy broth, and a duck tenderloin satay with cucumber and mango.

“I love street food even if I’m trained in the high end, and I love eating and cooking on the street level. Invariably, every time I travel I bring back something that will reflect my visit in Singapore and incorporate it in my menu,” he shares.

Foie gras pioneer Chef Michael Ginor will dish out an exciting and palatable culinary experience in this year’s World Gourmet Summit.

Sweetening the deal

Another master who will showcase her avant-garde techniques in desserts and pastries is Chef Janice Wong, the owner of the cutting-edge 2am:dessertbar in Singapore. Even as a young chef, she continues to push the limits of gastronomic creativity with extraordinary dessert and pastry innovations that go beyond culinary tradition.

“When I first opened 2am:dessertbar, the media was very helpful and encouraging, and so were the customers. Being 24 at the time and running your own business, the pressure is there. I wanted to make it a grand thing and that was my goal. I wanted to continue to strive for better results and techniques and always maintain quality,” she explains.

Training at the prominent Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts School in Paris and working in various Michelin-star restaurants together with some of the world’s best chefs, Chef Wong brings to the plate delicately plated desserts paired with wine for Filipino foodies to relish. Her sophisticated desserts reflect the beauty of nature, offering the perfect combination of texture, design and flavor.

“Visitors will get to enjoy a very unique way of presenting desserts, and how progressive our dishes are. With the World Gourmet Summit, you get an array of top chefs in the world all coming together, and you are exposed to so many different kinds of flavors and techniques. You will never get the same kind of chefs all at the same time,” she shares.

Chef Ginor guides his staff at his widely-acclaimed restaurant Lola in New York.

Along with a stellar cast of top chefs, Chefs Janice Wong and Michael Ginor will regale the taste buds of travelers and foodies with the world’s finest cuisines – something every Filipino who loves good food should look forward to. The World Gourmet Summit boasts an enviable list of gastronomic event highlights and will be held from April 25 to May 8.

For more information, please refer to yoursingapore.com.

Sonny Dizon and Cebu Pacific bring tourists to Davao’s thrilling side

2011-04-19T22:46:00.000-07:00

Known for its lush scenery, exotic fruits, captivating fauna and thrilling activities, Davao has earned top billing as a premiere destination for eco-adventure lovers. But unknown to most, Sonny Dizon, a visionary with a love for nature has been instrumental in helping drive Davao’s rising reputation.

The Davao connection

A Davaoeño through and through, Sonny started his foray into promoting eco-tourism in Davao with the Crocodile Park, a crocodile conservatorium. A long-time croc enthusiast, Sonny wanted to protect the remaining crocs in the country.

“I was inspired to get into eco-tourism because I was fascinated with crocodiles and wanted to teach people about the preservation of this species. They have great survival instincts,” he says.

What started as a fascination with these reptiles soon developed into a big venture that has helped spur Davao’s tourism. With a strong passion for the environment, he developed other enthralling attractions for adventurous travelers: ZipCity’s zipline experience with a 360-degree view of Davao City; Davao Wildwater Adventure’s adrenaline-pumping white-water rafting experience; Maxima Aquafun’s giant water slide called the Abyss; Tribu K Mindanawan’s cultural village; and, environment- friendly resorts like the Mt. Apo Highland Resort.

Aware of the immense tourism potential of Davao, Sonny has big plans for the future. He plans on transforming the picturesque Kapatagan area located at the foot of the renowned Mount Apo into a low-carbon eco-tourism haven, making it a leisure gateway to the grandfather of Philippine mountains.

Scaling the wonders of Davao

One with Sonny’s mission in promoting the eco-tourism potential of Davao is Cebu Pacific, as it brings local and foreign tourists to the wild wonders of Davao. “I fly with Cebu Pacific all the time. Like Davao, Cebu Pacific is world-class and has greatly encouraged domestic tourism. With its low fares, the airline has definitely encouraged more people to travel and experience Davao and everything it has to offer,” he says.

Tourists from all over the country and the world have been flocking to the many tourist spots Sonny has developed over the years. He lauds Cebu Pacific for making travel accessible, with the airline’s numerous flights to Davao: 39 times weekly from Manila, four times weekly from Cagayan de Oro, 21 times weekly from Davao, and 7 times weekly from Iloilo.

“Travel is very important because it gives one a competitive edge. I have traveled all over Asia, and I am amazed with other countries’ commitment to take care of their natural resources. This is why my advocacy is to continue making people aware of the wonders of nature,” says Sonny.

Together with Cebu Pacific, he continues to drive the popularity of Davao as the eco-adventure capital of the Philippines, with eager determination—a noble resolve only the wonders of Davao can inspire.

Yuppies freeze their busy day with Jollibee’s Choco Crumble Sundae

2011-04-19T22:42:00.000-07:00

Nothing melts away the worries and stress of a hectic day than a truly indulgent dessert. Encouraging office workers to slow down and enjoy every moment of their break time, Jollibee toured offices in the metro to bring the newest Jollibee Sundae variant, the Choco Crumble Sundae, to them for free.

Employees of top business districts flocked to Jollibee’s Choco Crumble Station that was set up at the Bonifacio Technology Center in Taguig, The Enterprise Center in Makati, and The Cybermall in Eastwood, Quezon City. With the cool, rich and loaded dessert, employees were able to freeze their busy day and enjoyed a delicious, relaxing moment.

Busy office bees freeze their hectic schedule

Busy workers patiently fell in line with their office colleagues to indulge in a momentary burst of satisfaction. And the star of the break time, Jollibee Choco Crumble Sundae, did not disappoint as it provided sweet indulgence that slowed down even the most frenzied schedule.

Real estate finance manager Cathy Bachoco spends her normal work days juggling reports and deadlines. When her responsibilities tend to be overwhelming, she relaxes through yoga and deep breathing techniques. Enjoying her favorite desserts also helps her slow down and refresh her mind.

“I am a fan of sundaes! That is why I am so happy to enjoy the new Jollibee Choco Crumble Sundae this hectic day. It’s delicious. I love its creamy consistency. Nakaka-relieve ng stress,” she says.

For Joelee Tarun, a special investigator of a government institution, listening to music, praying and eating are her stress-busters. When asked about her experience with his first spoonful of Jollibee Choco Crumble Sundae, she says, “The concoction is just perfect, it is not too sweet and the peanut butter syrup makes it so deliciously distinct.”

Edward Villona, a mechanical engineer at an IT company, can’t even stand from his work desk when tasks come from all directions.

“When responsibilities at work get crazy, all I can do is have a little chat with my officemates and take on the pleasure of food to somehow relieve the pressure. I actually love Jollibee cold desserts and beverages, especially the delicious and refreshing goodness of Swirly Bitz and Watermelon Sprite Float. Now, after tasting the Choco Crumble Sundae, I am definitely adding this to my list of de-stressing comfort food.”

Busy urbanites now have a new cool delicious treat to indulge in every time they need to take a rewarding break from their worries and responsibilities, thanks to the new Jollibee Choco Crumble Sundae. Available in all Jollibee outlets for only P36, the Choco Crumble Sundae offers rich and loaded satisfaction with five toppings: delectable coffee syrup, yummy peanut butter syrup, luscious brownies, crushed cookies and peanuts on top of creamy vanilla soft serve all in one delightful cup.

And with other luscious flavors like the Rocky Road Brownie Sundae and Chocolate Sundae, Jollibee gives busy people more reasons to look forward to that much deserved break anytime, any day.

Rhett Eala and Jollibee: A taste of Pinoy pride

2011-04-12T21:04:00.000-07:00

This summer, two proudly Filipino icons come together for a hip and cool display of nationalism. With its successful "I am Young, I am Pinoy, I YUM" campaign for teens, Jollibee teams up with designer Rhett Eala for two limited-edition YUM shirts bearing this now-famous slogan.

Eala is best known for putting Pinoy pride on the fashion limelight by emblazoning the Philippine map on a t-shirt, sparking a hot trend and dozens of copycats. "Perhaps you can say that (my designs) made it more accessible to more Filipinos, pushing it to the mainstream," Eala modestly declares. He also attributes the success of his design to this generation of teens and their growing pride for the country.

"Whenever a trend starts, it's because of the youth. Our youth have become more nationalistic, they have more pride in their country and heritage, and they wanted to show it," he says. And with Jollibee's YUM campaign celebrating the creativity of the youth and their proudly Pinoy attitude, the tie-up with Rhett made perfect sense. "Jollibee asked me to create a young, fresh design. They wanted (to make) their statement on a shirt." And that statement is proudly Pinoy.

The limited-edition Yum t-shirts interpret the Philippine map based on current street fashion trends -- digital art-inspired and rendered in pixels, or quirky and hand-drawn. Each shirt is priced at an affordable P199, for every purchase of any Jollibee burger value meal.

Eala is pleased to work with Jollibee on their latest campaign, noting the brand's affinity with the youth: “With their projects for today’s young generation, Jollibee becomes an even stronger influence on pushing Pinoy excellence to greater heights. It’s something I strongly believe in and I’m very honored to help their campaign in this way,” he adds.

Get the limited-edition YUM t-shirts in selected Jollibee branches nationwide until April 24 or until supplies last.

Knorr Cubes proven meatiest in challenge, donates cash prize to feeding program

2011-04-06T19:07:00.000-07:00

From tinola to sotanghon and nilaga, Filipino cuisine is full of delicious soup recipes. Homemakers who wish to satisfy their families’ palate with such favorites know to look for ingredients that will give their cooking the meatiest flavor—the foundation of any great-tasting soup. Their search ends with Unilever’s Knorr Chicken Cubes, which has been proven to be the meatiest cooking aid in the P1 Million Sabaw Challenge.

Knorr Cubes, with endorser Chef Tristan Encarnacion, challenged Filipino consumers to present a seasoning granule with more meat content than Knorr Chicken Cubes. If a consumer finds a seasoning granule meatier than Knorr Chicken Cubes, he or she can get a prize of P1 million. Should there be no product proven to be meatier, the P1 million prize will be donated to fund a feeding program to help improve the nutritional level of Filipino kids.

The challenge tapped an independent third party testing firm in Germany, Eurofins Analytik Gmbh, and worked in accordance with an FDA-approved testing protocol for meat content analysis to ensure credibility. Despite the entries submitted, Knorr Chicken Cubes still confirmed its meaty superiority, with meat content proven to be at least five times more than other local brands.

“When it comes to making great soups, no other brand beats Knorr Cubes! It contains five times more meaty goodness than all the other seasoning granules in the local market. For me, soup is not a good enough soup without the very meaty taste of Knorr Cubes,” says Chef Tristan.

Meaty million

Since no one won the challenge prize, Knorr Cubes donated P1 million to Kabisig ng Kalahi – a non-government organization that does community-based feeding programs in selected depressed communities in the Philippines.

This will help address hunger and malnutrition, which continue to be national pandemics affecting thousands of school-age Filipino children. One province at a time, Knorr is making a dent in reducing the national malnutrition level among school children through its Makulay ang Buhay ng Batang Pinoy (MBBP) feeding program. Knorr has partnered with Kabisig to operationalize this feeding program, and the P1 million donation will provide hundreds of children with nutritious meals. The program also trains parents to prepare healthy, affordable meals for their families. To date, the MBBP feeding program has already nourished more than 20,000 malnourished Filipino children.

“Our commitment to good food goes beyond providing excellent cooking aids,” says Bajeng Cruz, Knorr Brand Manager. “We believe that good food matters and the Sabaw Challenge gave us an opportunity to live out that commitment by offering undernourished kids and their families the value of quality and healthful cooking. We can only be very happy and proud to be of help in this way.”

With the result of Knorr Cubes’ P1 Million Sabaw Challenge, homemakers can be certain that they can make meal times more delicious, meatier and more substantial every time they put Knorr Cubes in their soups.

To meat up your menu, grab Knorr Cubes at your nearest sari-sari stores, supermarkets and groceries nationwide.

An invitation to exclusivity at Asia’s First Superyacht Show in Singapore

2011-04-06T01:20:00.000-07:00

The sight of 9 spectacular superyachts will attract boat-lovers and curious folks next month when Singapore launches Asia’s first Superyacht Show with a splash. From April 8 to 10, the Lion City will play host to some of the world’s most luxurious and powerful sailing and motor fleet at the exclusive ONE°15 Marina Club in Sentosa Cove.

The Singapore Yacht Show promises to bring together an international visitor audience of Asia’s ultra high-net worth individuals and all the major players of the region’s luxury yachting industry. The stage is thus set for regional exhibitors as well as some key international players keen to find a new market in the newly-affluent East, to showcase their latest products to a burgeoning Asian market, hungry for top-end luxury products. Additionally, the event will create the ideal environment for industry leaders to network and share best practices with new partners from around Asia. More than 3,000 people are expected to attend the event.

Ms. Sherina Chan, STB’s Area Director for the Philippines and Brunei says, “The superyacht culture in Asia is set to grow with the rapid increase of Asian millionaires as individuals are beginning to see yachting as an extension of their luxury lifestyle and a good platform for entertaining clients and friends. We hope this event will led to dynamic and influential business exchanges and attract more yachts to call into the region and entrench Singapore as the regional hub for luxury yachting.”

According to the Superyacht Singapore Association, 81 superyachts visited Singapore last year which was up from 59 in 2009. There are 13 yachts currently berthed in Singapore.

On why Informa Yacht Group is bringing the show to Singapore, Managing Director, Andy Treadwell, said, “We are convinced that the market for superyachts in Asia could develop considerably over the next few years, and we want to play our part in driving that development. Singapore is a highly strategic and influential business centre in the very heart of Asia, providing a perfect venue for the show and a first-class hub for the future of the large-yacht industry in this region.”

The invitation-only event will also play host to some exclusive entertainment with a gala dinner, various cocktail receptions, a golf tournament and many other social events. Interested participants may get their invitation cards to the exclusive yachting event at the Singapore Tourism Board- Philippines office. Contact Ms. Marie Aiza Soller at (632) 8134969 or email at marie_aiza_soller@stb.gov.sg on how to claim the invitation. There are only 50 invites available to be claimed on a first come, serve basis.

To receive further information on the show, the exhibitors or sponsors, please visit www.singaporeyachtshow.com or contact the organizer on info@singaporeyachtshow.com.

www.singaporeyachtshow.com

Yahoo! has your invitation to the Royal Wedding

2011-04-06T01:10:00.000-07:00

Yahoo!’s royal wedding site features a live stream of the event, a visitor guestbook, and marital advice from celebrities

SINGAPORE, April 5, 2011 -- With the wedding of Britain's Prince William and Kate Middleton less than a month away, people’s interest in the big event is growing exponentially – searches worldwide on Yahoo! for the royal wedding have increased 8 million percent since the announcement of the royal engagement and 1,523 percent just in the last month. To satisfy the millions of Web users all over the world who are hungry for royal wedding details, Yahoo! has launched its royal wedding website, http:// royalwedding.yahoo.com and http://uk.royalwedding.yahoo.com in the United Kingdom.

As the premier digital media company, Yahoo! brings together the best of the Web to celebrate the royal couple. The site features articles, photo galleries, videos, and more. A digital guestbook has been created in Prince William and Kate’s honor so well-wishers worldwide can offer their advice to the couple. Several celebrities have already added their advice and wishes to the Royal Wedding Yahoo! Guestbook, and more will contribute in the future.

Yahoo!’s royal wedding website will be an extension of Shine From Yahoo! (http://shine.yahoo.com), the leading website for women’s lifestyle content, and demonstrates Yahoo!’s position as the premier Web destination for landmark global events. Features of the Yahoo! Royal Wedding website include:

• Guestbook: The Royal Wedding Yahoo! Guestbook gives people a place to offer their marital advice and best wishes to Prince William and Kate Middleton, then share those wishes with users’ social networks. See the celebrities who have left messages for the couple: http://royalguestbook.yahoo.com/videos
• Photo galleries: View photos of the couple’s courtship, Kate Middleton as a child, and much more.
• Articles and blogs: The latest news on the royal wedding, plus articles on the wedding trends, fashion, the royal wedding's participants and guests, and more.
• Wedding live stream: Watch the royal wedding live by visiting http:// royalwedding.yahoo.com on April 29.
• Video: Yahoo! will feature video from Associated Press, Reuters, and ABC News, along with original video content including a joint ABC News/Yahoo! News Web show called “Wedding Royale.” ABC News will also provide weekly flashback videos of the
royal family. During the week of the wedding, Yahoo! will have a crew on the ground in London producing stories on topics people are most interested in.
• Mobile site: Yahoo! allows you to get your royal wedding fix anytime, anywhere, by visiting http://m.royalwedding.yahoo.com from your mobile phone.
• A chance to enter the “Live It Up Like Royalty” sweepstakes: By signing the Royal Wedding Yahoo! Guestbook or by “liking” Shine from Yahoo! on Facebook, users will automatically be entered to win a trip to Las Vegas to be treated like a king or queen. Contest rules: http://royalguestbook.yahoo.com/sweepstakes
• Localized Yahoo! Royal Wedding sites available in nine countries outside of the United States: Canada (http://ca.royalwedding.yahoo.com), Brazil (http://br.royalwedding.yahoo.com), Argentina (http://ar.royalwedding.yahoo.com),
Mexico (http://mx.royalwedding.yahoo.com), United Kingdom (http://uk.royalwedding.yahoo.com), France (http://fr.royalwedding.yahoo.com) and several other countries in Europe. The Spanish language site is available at: http://espanol.royalwedding.yahoo.com.

Additionally, Flickr by Yahoo!, one of the world’s best places to post and share photos, features The Official British Monarchy Flickr stream: http://www.flickr.com/photos/britishmonarchy/tags/rw2011/

For media covering the royal wedding, Yahoo! can be a great resource. Yahoo! will have the following experts and information available to media:
• Jennifer Romolini, editor in chief of Shine From Yahoo! and royal wedding trends expert, available for interviews in New York City or via phone and Skype.
• Jennie Bond, a British journalist who has worked for 14 years as the BBC's royal correspondent, travelled extensively with the royal family, and has reported on many events related to the British royal family. Jennie will be available to U.S. and UK media via telephone and Skype.
• Global and local data, trends, and marital advice from the Royal Wedding Yahoo! Guestbook, including celebrities’ advice and best wishes.
• Global and local search data trends from Yahoo! that determine the topics and wedding details that have people most riveted.
• Data on the top-viewed royal wedding images, articles, and more.

Visit Yahoo!’s Royal Wedding website: http://royalwedding.yahoo.com
Visit Shine From Yahoo!: http://shine.yahoo.com
Follow Yahoo!’s royal wedding coverage on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yahooshine
Follow Yahoo!’s royal wedding coverage on Twitter: http://twitter.com/yahooshine

LRI Design Plaza 7th Anniversary Artist Series Spotlights National Artist Bobby Mañosa

2011-04-03T22:15:00.000-07:00

LRI Design Plaza, the urban design hub, celebrates seven years of avant-garde art and design with its 7th Anniversary Artist Series. Putting the spotlight on famed Filipino architect and National Artist Francisco “Bobby” Mañosa, LRI will showcase the fusion of indigenous and urban art through his exhibit, Beyond the Bahay-Kubo. The exhibit will run from April 7 to 16, 2011, and is open to the public.

“We at Mañosa & Co. aim to preserve the unique character of indigenous art through the exhibit,” Mañosa shared. “When Ferdinand Magellan came to the Philippines, he saw first-hand the Bahay-Kubo. Today, nearly 500 years after, drive one kilometer away from the city and you will see the very same home design. Why? Because the design works—for our climate, environment, culture—it is a house with no formal architect, and yet it is designed with a deep understanding of our living condition. That and more is what one will see at Beyond the Bahay-Kubo.”

Expect to see the best of Mañosa’s works, which highlight his design philosophy of Contemporary Filipino Architecture and Interior Design. Known for bringing Philippine architecture to greater heights, Mañosa pioneered and advocated the
use of native materials like bamboo and nipa for contemporary designs. In the last 35 years, Mañosa & Co. have modernized the bahay kubo by infusing today’s design strategies, materials and technology and yet, have retained its
distinctive design elements. Mañosa adds “I’ve been ‘Designing Filipino’ because interpreting Filipino in design is beautiful and can stand at par with other world-class designs.” His remarkable list of work spans beautiful homes and resorts, institutional buildings and landmarks, which have been well-received by discriminating urban dwellers and the government, earning him
the coveted title of National Artist in 2009.

The exhibit will have model houses of his extraordinary projects, a confluence of the old and new featuring homes from Luzon-Visayas-Mindanao, Lantana Lane and Scallabrin. Past works comprising of institutional buildings and landmarks like the EDSA Shrine, Medical City Building and Corregidor Island will also be featured. Expect to see photos of resorts and other iconic places, as well such as world-class Amanpulo in Palawan, Pearl Farm Resort in Davao, Mactan Shangri-la and even the Philippine Pavilions in Seville, Spain and Lisbon, Germany.“Our vision as an organization is to instill national pride by showcasing the Mañosa Brand to the World,” said Bobby Mañosa. “I want to show the best of Filipino architecture. Through this exhibit, we want every Filipino to experience our works and be able to say, ‘that is truly Filipino and that is magnificent!’”

Visit Mañosa’s exhibition and learn all about his outstanding infrastructures and many other projects. Art and design enthusiasts are invited to visit and be part of LRI Design Plaza’s 7th anniversary celebration. The LRI Design Plaza 7th Anniversary Artist Series will feature the best of urban art through a series of exhibitions, workshops and other special events in March and April. Located at the heart of Reposo, LRI has gained a loyal following among design enthusiasts and art aficionados. Apart from premier furniture stores, there are also artists’ spaces and specialty design stores.

For unique artwork, exquisite furnishings and other statement home pieces, visit LRI Design Plaza at 210 Nicanor Garcia Street, Bel-Air II, Makati City. For more details, please call 895-1772; 895-5470 or (0922) 857-2559.

Ease out the tension and work-related stress with Phiten

2011-04-03T22:09:00.000-07:00

Hectic work schedules do not necessarily mean giving up a healthy lifestyle. Busy, working individuals can always find means to ease the tension they feel whenever too much work gets in their way. Knowing this, Phiten – a brand globally known for its stylish line of health-enhancing wearables, reaches out to career-driven employees looking for alternatives to manage their work day better. A leader in innovative wearable technology, Phiten offers trendy items such as bracelets, necklaces, clothes among many others that employees can wear to let them feel more at ease at work. Phiten uses breakthrough technology in its wide range of products to cater to today’s demanding and varied lifestyles. With an aim to help restore and maintain the body’s natural state of balance, it gives its users stylish and effective means to ease out their work-induced
stress and continue living a dynamic life.

Phiten’s line of wearable items all go through Phiten’s nanotechnology, the process which turns titanium into microscopic particles called Aquatitan. Unique water-soluble metal technology used by Phiten allows Aquatitan to be infused in every strand of the product’s fabrics. Using this material conditions the body to an inherent state of relaxation simply by wearing them. Employees can survive high-stress situations amidst the demands of today’s corporate setting. Among its many potential benefits to the body is the improvement of blood circulation, muscle pain relief, fatigue and injury prevention and increase of flexibility. It also helps users enhance their performance and maintain optimum energy levels all throughout the day.

As busy individuals carry on with their daily tasks at the office, during meetings and even when doing overtime work, coming in handy are Phiten’s stylish line of products: necklaces and bracelets, tapes, lotions, gels, titanium supporters, socks, ankle guards, knee guards, waist belts, shoulder guards and titanium bandages, collared T-shirts for golf and casual wear.Available in
Phiten shops and kiosks and in major sports shops in the country. For more information, visit www.phitenphil.com and find out the Phiten accessory that best suits your lifestyle.

Lose weight fast with Fitness First’s Lose It Program

2011-03-30T18:52:00.000-07:00

March, 2011 - These days, people are constantly looking for a quick fix, a convenient solution to everything; from a hassle-free way to getting coffee in the morning to losing the extra weight gained over the holidays. While there’s no short-cut to physical health, Fitness First hastens the progress with the launch of its exclusive weight loss program, Lose It! That will help individuals lose up to 10 lbs in 4 weeks.

Lose It! is a fitness plan that aims to help different individuals attain their short-term weight loss goals in a matter of weeks. Whatever the motivation is, Lose It! can help participants look good, stay healthy, be more energized, or get back to that desired dress size through the different exercise routines.

“We understand that time is now a luxury with people living multiple lives balancing their careers, families and friends and because of this, health and fitness have taken the back seat. With the introduction of Fitness First’s Lose It!, we will be able to provide people with a quick and effective work-out solution for individuals on the go”, said Mark Ellis, Fitness First Country Manager.

Lose It! was developed by The Biggest Loser Asia Trainer for two seasons and Fitness First’s Regional Fitness Manager, Dave Nuku and supported by Fitness First Regional Group Training Exercise Manager, Jacqueline Wong. The program was built to work for all body types. It’s designed to provide access to a defined period with a clear objective and an end result in mind. Lose It! is a flexible and personal exercise plan based on the individual’s weight loss goal versus the number of times he/she can commit to going to the gym.

The best part about this program is that it is determined and tailored fitted to one’s personal weight desire and needs, for instance, losing as much as 10 lbs in 4 weeks. “We developed the Lose It! Program for people who are currently not enrolled in a gym but are looking for a fast and effective way of losing weight,” said Dave Nuku, “ Aside from access to the gym, the program offers a Lose It! Body guide, body journal, three one hour one to one personal training sessions and team work out sessions. The team work out is a full hour of complete training that helps to improve cardiovascular, strength and flexibility of a person. It’s an exercise class done in groups which is fun and challenging. The exercises include games, plyometrics and circuit training.”

To learn more about Lose It! please visit www.fitnessfirst.com or go to any Fitness First club nearest you. Lose It! hits the clubs this March.

Fall in Love with Seriously Good Roast!

2011-03-28T19:01:00.000-07:00

Yummy Roast opens first store in Manila

Filipinos without a doubt have an intense love affair with chicken, especially when it’s packed with flavor served hot off the grill with a side of rice.

This year, Philippine company Yum Roast International, Inc. (YRII) in partnership with Singaporean-based food establishment The Asian Kitchen, introduces a wide range of delicious, authentic and great tasting dishes at Yummy Roast. Understanding the intrinsic values and delicate taste profiles of Asians, especially the Filipinos, Yummy Roast has successfully married advanced technology with the tradition of Asian cooking. Chief Executive Officer of The Asian Kitchen Food Company Cary Gee says, “We really know Asian food and we want the Filipinos to get to know it too. We always keep the traditions in mind but at the same time introduce innovation. For example, we work with classic cooking methods but we re-design them to produce better food, fast.” President of YRII, Mr. Richie Yang is excited to bring the Yummy Roast experience to the Philippines. Having a wealth of experience in the food industry as executive director of Philippine Food Concepts and managing director of a successful Chinese restaurant chain, he says, “We take pride in Yummy Roast’s dishes which are seriously delicious and quick- served without losing the spirit of the traditional recipes.”

Taking on the world with the very first Quick-Served Asian Restaurant, Yummy Roast puts a few of the Filipinos’ favorite meals on the table – Yummy Chicken, Yummy Pork Belly and Yummy Pork Asado all perfectly partnered with their Yummy Rice. Oozing with Chicken Essence, it can even be enjoyed on its own. The aroma of Asian spices and lemon grass will surely keep you coming back for more.

At an affordable price of P98, Yummy Roast’s featured dishes, YummyChicken, Yummy Pork Asado or Yummy Pork Belly may be enjoyed with unlimited Fragrant Rice or Yummy Rice for only an additional P20.

For those who have a sweet tooth, Yummy Roast will also delight them with their deliciously refreshingBlack Jelly Drink or Yoghurt generously topped with strawberry syrup.
The first and flagship store is located at the heart of Eastwood City in Citywalk 2. The company intends to open more Yummy Roast outlets in SM Sta. Rosa, SM Bicutan, Vito Cruz, and SM Manila.Serving it better, faster and tastier, Yummy Roast will definitely satisfy your craving for flavorful, Asian food while being kind to your wallet.

Graduate to the goodness of Goldilocks

2011-03-16T22:02:00.000-07:00

Graduation is right around the corner! Be the first to congratulate your graduate for all the hard work they’ve done with a Goldilocks’ Choco Orange Greeting Cake!

Goldilocks, the country’s number one bakeshop, has given our graduates a reason to celebrate: a luscious combination of chocolate and orange-flavored chiffon, infused with refreshing citrus buttercreme. Bordered with sumptuous chocolate fudge frosting and topped with chocolate crescents, it is a beautiful way to show your graduate how proud you are.

Pass by the Goldilocks branch nearest you or call 888-1-999 Go-Delivery today. It’s time to graduate to the goodness of Goldilocks.

New Hunt’s website offers delicious possibilities

2011-03-14T22:45:00.000-07:00

For today’s domestic goddess, having the best cooking equipment can help create a mouth-watering recipe, but having a ready and accessible kitchen handyman, coupled with a handsome, strapping kitchen confidante might just do wonders in making deliciously sizzling creations that ignite the appetite. Here to fuel your culinary creativity is the new website of the world’s leading tomato expert, www.yummyhunts.com.

And to help pave the way to gustatory pleasures is Hunter, Hunt’s resident kitchen handyman. As the website’s official guide, Hunter is set to satisfy the wildest cravings with exciting tips and delicious recipes that will tickle the palate. These include everyday dishes, special weekend meals, and party food that families will enjoy. Showing just how yummy things can get, Hunter embarks on culinary adventures as he visits different kitchens, malls, and restaurants to share tasty tips on food preparation. Armed with insights into food and practical living, Hunter also takes care of the most intimate kitchen queries to help moms provide the best-tasting food for the family.

“Join me aboard gastronomic adventures as we fall in love with the temptation of good food and unique dishes made with the finest ingredients from Hunt’s. Together, we’ll check out the best hotspots in the metro and discover endless yummy possibilities. Who knows, I might even pay you a visit one of these days,” says Hunter.

Moms looking forward to experiencing a new flavor of delicious entertainment and information can catch Hunter’s must-watch Eat, Cook, Love episode where he visits a restaurant in Tagaytay. Members can also win an overnight stay at that same restaurant just by giving feedback via the Hunt’s website. Aside from introducing food-lovers to Hunter’s endearing charm and insatiable passion for food, the website also features solutions to moms’ everyday kitchen needs, daily recipes, and updates on the latest high-quality and great-tasting Hunt’s products. With the www.yummyhunts.com, moms can enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience in the kitchen as they discover a wealth of information, lip-smacking insights, and mouth-watering dishes available and ready 24/7.

Fitness First invites you to gym for FREE to celebrate the International Fitness Week

2011-03-03T17:17:00.000-08:00

March, 2011 - Have you been thinking about hitting the gym recently? Are you feeling like you’re not exercising so much? Have you been meaning to go out for a run or join a marathon with friends but have been putting it off? On March 14-20, Fitness First gives you a good reason to hit the gym because in celebration of the 2011 International Fitness Week, the world’s leading health and fitness club will open all its doors nationwide to everyone for free!

International Fitness Week is a global campaign that aims to promote healthy living and fitness through exercise and enjoyable group activities. Now in its third year in the Philippines, Fitness First together with former Spice Girl and Global International Fitness Week Ambassador, Mel B, is encouraging the public to becoming more active and fit while providing solutions to different health concerns such as weight loss and high cholesterol.

“Our business at Fitness First is all about changing lives. We offer our services to help people get healthy no matter what their motivations are. Whether it’s to have more energy to keep up with your kids after a long day at work, to look better or to feel healthier, Fitness First is here to support you. This March, we are strengthening our commitment to wellness through International Fitness Week. We’d like to encourage everyone to start moving and prioritize their health.” Says Mark Ellis, Country Manager of Fitness First Philippines

For an entire week, Fitness First will treat everyone to a selection of services. Each day will have a different focus including “Strength Day” where activities will center on how one can build their strength, “Cycle Day” in which spin classes will be offered to both rookie and experts, “Shape Day” where classes devoted to sculpting and toning one’s body will be offered with the help of different innovative techniques and free consultation with Fitness First’s resident nutritionist and “Health Check Day” which will provide participants with a 5 point health check. In addition to this, there will also be “Functional Training Day” which can help people be more productive and energized to tackle their daily activities, and “Group Exercise Day” where beginner cardio classes will be offered. Finally, to culminate the week-long celebration, “Fun Day” will give participants a preview on Fitness First’s newest weight loss program, Lose It.

“To me, Fitness is a lifestyle. It’s a commitment to my body. Exercising helps me focus more during the day. It provides me the energy to do the things I love” says International Fitness Week global ambassador, Mel B. “My partnership with Fitness First and International Fitness Week allows me to motivate and inspire other people to get moving! I urge everybody to take advantage of this opportunity and hit the gyms. ”

Fitness First would like to invite members and non-members alike to this opportunity as it will only run for 7 days during International Fitness Week. Use the gym, feel free to try the equipment, consult with a nutritionist and join the many exciting classes this coming March 14 – 20 2011 at any Fitness First club near you!

To learn more about International Fitness Week and Fitness First, please visit www.internationalfitnessweek.com or www.fitnessfirst.com.ph

The next generation brain nutrition

2011-03-03T16:49:00.000-08:00

As information technology eases the way we connect with each other, similarly there are major advancements in nutrition that optimize neural connections and brain development in children. Strengthening the commitment of Abbott Nutrition International (ANI) to turn science into caring, a continuing medical education (CME) among doctors nationwide was organized around the Next Generation Eye-Q Nutrition System.

According to the lecture’s guest speaker, Dr. Francisco J. Rosales, Doctor of Science Degree in International Health and Human Nutrition, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, “the focus should not only be in finding the latest beneficial ingredient. Perhaps more importantly, the proper combination and relative proportions of these nutrients will help ensure that a child achieves the optimum brain development that he or she deserves. This is precisely our end-goal at Abbott.” Apart from being one of the leading authorities on nutrition, Dr. Rosales is likewise the Clinical Operations and Nutrition Research Director for Abbott Nutrition Research & Development, Asia Pacific Region.

Quite appropriately, a series of clinical studies and research have shown that the precise combination of DHA (for learning), AA, omega 3 and 6, iron, folic acid, taurine (for vision and cognition), choline (for memory) and zinc; infused with higher levels of phospholipids (for brain processing) and added lutein (for vision) provides the necessary building blocks in addressing a growing child’s brain nutrition needs. It really takes more than one nutrient to achieve optimal brain development in children. Abbott’s Eye-Q Nutrition System helps children at this critical development stage.

Chef Gino Gonzalez reinvents a chocolate classic with Choco Lava

2011-02-28T21:59:00.000-08:00

These days, Chef Gino Gonzalez, the executive chef of premiere cuisine destinations Café Ysabel and Buenisimo, keeps himself busy by constantly adding more innovative creations to his world-class culinary fare. With a passion for good food and a mission to excite the Filipino palate, Chef Gino draws inspiration from his childhood, his gastronomic exploits abroad, and his vast culinary experience to reinvent old favorites. This time, he turns to his drive for exploration and discovery to conjure new flavors that will fire-up the appetite of chocolate-lovers.

With a thirst for finding new ingredients to infuse his trademark dishes with, Chef Gino pushes the limits of creativity and taste while constantly offering new variations on all-time classics, from sumptuous savory entrees, aromatic breakfast treats, to luscious desserts. This time, Chef Gino adds to his list of discoveries Choco Lava, Universal Robina Corporation’s (URC) 3-in-1 powdered chocolate drink that has zero gram trans fat and only 80 calories per 20 gram serving. “As a chef, I’ve always had a zest for discovering new flavors. I constantly try different kinds of ingredients to produce interesting and workable combinations,” he stressed. “I always like to think out of the box. And fortunately, I was able to find the perfect ingredient in Choco Lava to give some of my creations that great chocolate taste.”

His fondness for exploring new things that led him to discover Choco Lava is also one of the values he inspires in his students at the Center for Asian Culinary Studies, where he’s currently the culinary arts program director and head instructor. “When my students can already follow instructions to a tee and when their classics are deeply embedded in them, I teach them to be adventurous and not be afraid to explore new things so they can grow as young chefs.” Having a soft spot for the dark dessert, Chef Gino created an easy-to-make chocolate recipe using Choco Lava: his own version of the Chocolate panna cotta. Considering that a chef’s work truly reflects who he is as a culinarian, his Choco Lava dessert certainly mirrors his fondness for chocolate. “I really love chocolate. I love playing around with it to make different kinds of chocolate concoctions,” he shared. “With the millions of chocolate lovers out there, I’m sure that everyone will take to this recipe very well. Plus, it’s very workable and easy to make, with all the ingredients readily accessible and very minimal equipment needed.”

With the convenience and premium taste of Choco lava, Chef Gino’s Chocolate Panna Cotta offers foodies a quick and simple way to create homespun chocolate satisfaction. This light and creamy dessert teases the taste buds with luscious chocolate flavor, a soft soothing texture, and just a hint of sweetness to end a dinner date on a sweet note. A fresh take on the chilled delight we all love, Chef Gino’s Chocolate Panna Cotta can easily be presented in an elegant way. And since it’s a very versatile dessert, Chef Gino’s Panna Cotta can be garnished with all sorts of ingredients to top it off in style – whipped cream, caramel, chocolate shavings, or even chocolate sauce.

CHOCO LAVA PANNA COTTA

Ingredients:
1 tbsp. unflavoured gelatine
½ cup milk
2 ¼ cups cream
¾ cups CHOCO LAVA
½ tsp. vanilla extract

Procedure:
1. Soften gelatin in milk for five minutes. Place the cream and sugar in a saucepan and let boil. Simmer and put gelatine mixture. Turn off heat. Add vanilla extract.
2. Transfer in a mold or pyrex pan. Chill for four hours or overnight.

With Choco Lava giving this delectable dessert the rich chocolate taste and irresistible aroma of premium cocoa, chocolate-lovers can truly share in the enticing flavors of a reinvented classic. What’s more, Choco Lava offers the convenience of a 3-in-1 mix, so you’ll enjoy a hassle-free and simple preparation without having to add sugar or milk separately.

Happy with his new chocolate concoction that features the healthy goodness of Choco Lava, Chef Gino yearns to share his love for chocolate to the world. He even sums up his luscious new creation in a single word – tempting.

Makeup tips from dusk until dawn

2011-02-24T20:14:00.000-08:00

Avon Color’s Lala Flores shares her makeup tips to look fab all day

You may be a career woman-on-the-go, a working mom or a sports enthusiast juggling multiple roles yet expected and challenged to always maintain that fresh, glammed up look. Avon Color Creative Consultant Lala Flores shares tips to help keep you looking fabulous from day-to-night.

The trick, she said, is to understand your skin tone and features and getting the right palette for your face. “Women should have at least a basic kit for makeup that contains the following: foundation, powder, mascara, neutral/nude brown eyeshadow, black/dark brown eyeliner, blush powder, lipstick, conditioning lipbalm and lipgloss,” said Lala. “But with the different lifestyles that women have, there are appropriate looks and makeup items one should have based on various day-to-day situations.”

1. A working day
The situation: You wake up at 6 a.m., prepare for work, and do your usual 8-hour grind. You are in and out of meetings – with clients, suppliers, and your own office team. Your only time to put on makeup (or retouch it) is when you are in transit to your next meeting or in between 5-minute bathroom breaks. How can a woman-on-the-go like you pitch in time for full makeup coverage?

Lala says: We always want to put on a professional look no matter the kind of work we do. A light foundation, powder, blush, lipstick, one wash of eye color and mascara will help us look good the whole day no matter how hectic your schedule is. Stay away from very bold colors. Your usual everyday statement is you should look pretty and polished enough and ready to work. To stay fresh on your usual day, touch up with a powder and lipstick when needed.

Try this from Avon: Avon Ultra Moisture Rich Knockout Pink, Ideal Shade Dual Powder Foundation SPF 15 (choose your best shade suitable for your skin tone: Natural Beige, Pure Beige, Shell, Nude).

2. A relaxed weekend with friends
The situation: It’s a Saturday – the day you’ve been looking forward to. After a week of hard work, you decide to reward yourself by reconnecting with your friends, exchange stories over a cup of coffee and watching a movie you’ve been raring to see. The challenge is you want to look your best without overdoing your makeup.

Lala says: It is best to put on light powder to even out skin tone, a nice swirl of healthy looking blush on, mascara to open up eyes and lip gloss to add glow on your face. It may seem simple but it is a sure way to look made up without an explicit full coverage.

Try this from Avon: Your favorite Glazewear Lip Gloss shade, Ideal Shade Pressed Powder (choose your best shade suitable for your skin tone)

3. A romantic Friday night date
The situation: The guy you’ve been eyeing for months finally asked you out! You’ve been seeing him around the office for quite some time but tonight, you want to look different. You want to look sultry without being too sexy.

Lala says: You have to choose which one to accentuate -- your eyes or your lips. If you want to look pretty all night for your date, choose to accentuate your eyes. A good combination would be neutral shades of brown, eyeliner, and mascara to define the eyes without looking heavy. This would instantly make your eyes sparkle. Swirl on a neutral rose color blush on cheeks and a nude pink gloss. Night lighting is so tricky.

Try this from Avon: True Color Eyeshadow Quad - Sandy Corals, Glimmersticks Eye Liner Dark Brown, SuperCurl Mascara - Black

But if you’re pressed for time, Lala recommends to just skip putting on eyeshadow. Instead, put on 2-3 coats of mascara to keep your eyes open, swirl on a blush, and then choose a really nice lipstick shade in pinks or reds that compliment your skin tone. This is a typical dinner date makeup that works. Just make sure to check your lipstick if it is still intact after dinner. Touch up lipstick if needed.

Try this from Avon: SuperShock Mascara in Black, Smooth Minerals Lipstick in Pink Quartz, Smooth Mineral Blush in Golden Glow

4. An early Saturday sports date
The situation: You are scheduled to do your first 5KM run one Sunday morning with your cute running buddy. You’ve trained hard enough but just had less than 8 hours of sleep. You see yourself in the mirror only to see that the lack of sleep has taken its toll on your face. What do you do?

Lala says: Choosing the right shade is key when doing your makeup for a sports date. A cream-based concealer, cheek blush, clear gloss or lip tint with a conditioning balm would ensure that the makeup stays put after a workout. You want to look healthy looking and not too made up.
Using a nude rosy shade would do the trick.

Try this from Avon: Ideal Shade Concealer Stick (choose from Almond or Neutral), Glazewear Clear Lip Gloss, True Color Blush in Peach

5. A mid-week concert date with your girl friends
The situation: After waiting for three months, the most-awaited concert of the year arrives! It’s the ultimate date time with your girl bestfriends-slash-sisters for life and you want to look glam, prepped up for all the singing and dancing the night has in store for you.

Lala says: This would be the perfect time to play on your eye and lip color makeup. You’d want to look fabulous all night with all the flashes of your digital camera.

Try this from Avon: Ultra Color Rich Mega Impact Lipstick SPF 15 in Rockin' Red, True Color Eyeshadow Quad in Purple Haze, SuperExtend Mascara in Black

With the wide array of makeup offered by the number 1 makeup brand in the Philippines, you will definitely find the type of makeup for your needs. Visit the Avon website at www.avon.com.ph for the latest Avon products and promos. Don’t have an Avon Lady yet?
Contact the Avon Customer Hotline at 8642900 or visit www.avon.com.ph to get in touch with an Avon Representative.

Enjoy exciting meals with delicious Argentina Deli Burger recipes

2011-02-21T01:59:00.000-08:00

Most moms spend a considerable amount of time thinking of different ways to make mealtimes more exciting for their chikitings. Since preparing delicious meals is one of their top priorities, moms will surely be thankful to Argentina Deli Burger - the newest delectable treat in town that can be enjoyed in different delicious ways. Appetizing, convenient and easy to prepare, Argentina Deli Burger is the first FULLY COOKED burger patty in the market that will surely satisfy kids’ taste buds. Here are some helpful recipes from Argentina Deli Burger for moms to prepare and for kids to enjoy!

Argentina Corned Beef Deli Burger on Sizzling Plate

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons cooking oil
1 large onion, sliced into rings
1 canister, Argentina Corned Beef Deli Burger (209 grams)

For sauce:

¼ cup tomato ketchup
¼ cup banana ketchup
¼ cup rice wine
2 teaspoons soy sauce
½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon hot sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
½ cup beef broth

Procedure:
Stir fry onions in hot cooking oil until they are aromatic but still crispy. Strain onions and set aside. In the same pan, lightly fry Argentina Corned Beef Deli Burger until it’s heated through. In a saucepan, mix all ingredients for the sauce. Place over medium heat and cook for about five minutes until sauce is slightly thick. Assemble everything by laying the burger patties on a hot sizzling plate, then pour on the sauce. Top with fried onions. This recipe makes five servings.

Argentina Deli Burger Cheese Steak Sandwich

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons butter
3 medium onions, sliced into rings
5 junior size French bread, toasted
1 canister, Argentina Cheese Deli Burger (209 grams), lightly fried
Cheese sauce, heated

Procedure:
Heat butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Add onions and stir occasionally until evenly caramelized. Set aside. Split open French bread and fill it with two slices of Argentina Cheese Deli Burger and caramelized onions. Top with cheese sauce. Serve immediately. This recipe makes five servings.

Argentina Chicken Deli Burger on Creamy Pasta

Ingredients:
200 grams linguine or spaghetti pasta
1 canister, Argentina Chicken Deli Burger (209 grams)
2 tablespoons cooking oil
¼ cup butter
¼ cup chopped onions
2 teaspoons minced garlic
½ cup quartered button mushrooms
¼ cup green peas
½ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup white wine
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup fresh milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup all-purpose cream
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
½ teaspoon salt, or according to taste
Pinch of white pepper
Fresh thyme or flat leaf parsley for garnish

Procedure:
Cook the pasta, drain and set aside. Fry Argentina Chicken Deli Burger lightly in frying pan until it’s heated through. Set aside and keep it warm. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then sauté onions, garlic, mushrooms and peas. Add thyme and flour and cook until mixture gets bubbly. Stir in wine, broth, milk and cheese. Cook for about five minutes until cheese has melted, stirring occasionally. Stir in cream and parsley. Season with salt and pepper according to taste, then add cooked pasta to sauce and toss well. Serve hot with the burgers on top or on the side. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. This recipe makes four servings.

Argentina Classic Deli Burger Lunch Plate Special

Ingredients:
1 canister, Argentina Classic Deli Burger (209 grams)
2 tablespoons cooking oil
Steamed rice or mashed potatoes
1 cup buttered mixed vegetables (carrots, corn, peas)
1 cup prepared gravy (from instant gravy mix)

Procedure:
Fry Argentina Classic Deli Burger lightly in cooking oil until it’s heated through. Plate patties individually with portions of rice or mashed potatoes and buttered vegetables, then serve hot with gravy on the side. This recipe makes five servings.

For mashed potato:
Make mashed potatoes by boiling ½ kilo of peeled and cubed potatoes and 2 cloves garlic in 2 cups chicken stock and ½ teaspoon salt. When potatoes are tender, drain and mash with ¼ cup of the stock, ¼ cup heated milk and 2 tablespoons butter. Adjust taste with salt and pepper.

These delicious recipes can be served to kids as their baon for recess and lunch when they go to school, at home or during their birthday parties.

Argentina Deli Burger is available in the frozen section of leading supermarkets, groceries and wet markets nationwide in four variants: Argentina Corned Beef Deli Burger, Argentina Chicken Deli Burger and Argentina Classic and Cheese Deli Burger patties.

Qatar Airways increases flights to Kuala Lumpur

2011-02-19T04:50:00.000-08:00

Route development to improve connectivity via carrier’s Doha hub
Kuala Lumpur and Dar Es Salaam routes go double daily
Geneva, Copenhagen, Paris and Muscat to get extra services
Daily services to Barcelona and Bengalaru upgraded to Airbus A330

February 2011, Doha, Qatar – Qatar Airways has announced a host of network capacity increases – including boosting flights on its Kuala Lumpur route to twice daily – to be phased in from March 1.

The Doha-based carrier will implement several network improvements across its global route map for the start of its winter programme.

An extra three weekly services from Kuala Lumpur will be added from March 27, connecting the Malaysian capital to Doha twice a day.

This year, Qatar Airways marks its 10th year of operations in Malaysia. As one of the airline’s most popular and oldest routes in South East Asia, the airline’s Kuala Lumpur route has continually grown since the airline launched services in 2001.

The increased services will connect business leaders from the Middle East keen to expand trade in Malaysia and will also provide leisure and business travelers in Malaysia with seamless connections to exotic locations in Europe and South America that were harder to access like Nice and Sao Paulo.

With daily, non-stop flights from Doha to Sao Paulo, Malaysian sports fans will enjoy convenient, non-stop links from Doha to the next FIFA World Cup being staged in Brazil in 2014.

Expanding into Europe and Beyond

This comes as part of Qatar Airways’ expansion plans connecting Asia to Europe through Doha.

In Europe, where Qatar Airways is concentrating much of its expansion over the next two months with new routes to Bucharest and Budapest this week, Brussels by the end of January and Stuttgart in March, the airline has also earmarked a number of capacity increases to and from existing destinations in its network.

The double daily Paris route will rise to 16 weekly services with an extra two flights a week, while Geneva capacity will increase to daily following the introduction of two new weekly flights.

News of the European additions follows the recent announcement that Qatar Airways’ Copenhagen route will go daily with one extra flight a week.

Qatar Airways route expansion also includes flights in the Gulf with three extra weekly services to the Omani capital Muscat with capacity rising to 24 flights each week and two extra services to the Tanzanian capital, Dar Es Salaam which will take frequency up to twice a day.

Larger aircraft for increased capacity

In addition to increased services to a host of destinations in Qatar Airways’ global network, daily services from Doha to Barcelona and to Bengaluru (Bangalore) in southern India will be upgraded from a narrow-body Airbus A320 aircraft to a wide-body A330.

Growing international passenger demand from Asia and the Middle East and additional aircraft joining the fleet have prompted the capacity hike, part of the Doha-based airline’s aggressive expansion strategy to offer consumers more choice.

Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said: “These capacity increases yet again demonstrate Qatar Airways’ commitment to building our route profiles in line with our strategy to offer passengers more travel options.

“With an average of more than one new aircraft being introduced into the fleet every month, Qatar Airways is looking to deploy the new capacity on existing routes while, at the same time launch new routes to join our ever-growing international network.”

“From Europe and Africa to the Middle East and Asia, our network will see more capacity, improved schedules and, more importantly, more choice for our large passenger base and new clientele. There will be further route expansion announcements over the next few weeks.”

All the extra flights operate non-stop from Qatar Airways’ Doha hub, offering excellent connections to and from key feeder markets.

Highlights of the expansion programme are:

Kuala Lumpur - 11 flights a week to 14 (double daily) from March 27
Dar Es Salaam - 12 flights a week to 14 (double daily), from March 27
Paris - 14 flights a week to 16 from March 27
Geneva - 5 flights a week to 7 (daily), effective May 2
Barcelona - Narrow-body aircraft replaced with Airbus A330, from March 27
Copenhagen - 6 to 7 flights a week (daily), from March 27
Muscat - 21 flights a week to 24, from March 27
Bengaluru - Narrow-body aircraft replaced with Airbus A330, from March 1

Qatar Airways will begin flights to the Romanian capital Bucharest and the Hungarian capital
Budapest on January 17; Belgium’s capital Brussels on January 31; and Germany’s car
manufacturing centre of Stuttgart on March 6.

The airline launches its 100th destination on April 6 with four flights a week to the Syrian city of Aleppo.

To make bookings or check schedules, visit www.qatarairways.com

Qatar Airways currently operates a modern fleet of 94 aircraft from Doha to 97 cities across Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, North and South America. The airline is continuing its aggressive expansion plan started in 1997 at the time of its relaunch. It plans to serve 120 key business and leisure destinations worldwide with a fleet of 120 aircraft by 2013.

Get a refreshing lift with the new Jollibee Floats!

2011-02-17T00:06:00.000-08:00

Today’s teens live a full but fun life – from balancing the demands of school work, bonding time with the family and socializing with friends. Despite their hectic schedule, they still manage to stay true and cool by spending exciting moments with their barkada, hanging out at favorite food spots or watching their favorite flicks. Those bonding times of teens will now be made even more special with the Jollibee Floats, Jollibee’s cool new beverages that let them experience a delightfully refreshing lift.

Jollibee’s new refreshing soda treats are topped with indulgent swirls of vanilla soft-serve and come in two variants. The Jollibee Coke Float is a frothy combination of the all-time favorite Coca-cola and creamy vanilla soft-serve and decadent chocolate syrup, just right for fun times with the barkada.

Friends looking for a fruity twist to the classic float can delight in the Jollibee Watermelon Sprite Float. Offering a mix of Sprite, soft-serve and delicious watermelon syrup, the Jollibee Watermelon Sprite Float can double as the perfect fruity drink to complete the langhap-sarap dining experience with friends.

Priced affordably at P25 for the Coke Float and P28 for the Watermelon Sprite Float, these refreshingly new drinks from Jollibee will surely let you and your friends stay true to the cool you. So visit the nearest Jollibee store and let the fun times and hearty laughter skyrocket with the new Jollibee Floats!

Put a ring on it: Just Jewels crowns Best Proposal

2011-02-11T01:03:00.000-08:00

Soon-to-be Mr. and Mrs. Carlos happily flaunt their prizes.

Every blissful relationship comes down to one magical question: Will you marry me? And for 26-year-old Miguel Carlos, popping the question of a lifetime was a winning moment that earned him and his fiancée extravagant prizes from Just Jewel’s Will You Marry Me? contest. Already a major winner after his lovely fiancée Emily Cu said “yes”, Carlos took home P10,000 cash, designer wedding rings, three days and two nights stay at Le Soleil de Boracay with airfare, and P5,000 worth of gift certificates from Just Jewels.

“For our second anniversary, we went to Calauit Island in Palawan for a safari trip because Emily loves zebras. And I thought it was the perfect time for me to pop the question,” he shared. “Even before the trip, I was already coordinating with the tour guide to help me with my plans. I asked for help with the printing of my special banner, since I could not have it done here in Manila and then bring it with us on the flight. It would ruin the surprise.” So when the right moment unfolded, he was able to get down on one knee and propose to the love of his life. “I was really happy,” Cu recalled. “I knew that it was going to be fun because we would be together. It was really the best proposal for me. I could not think of how he could have done it any other way.”

Proud of the shining milestone in their relationship, Carlos joined Just Jewels’ search for the best proposal story and bagged the top prizes. “We really wanted two-toned wedding rings, so we were pleasantly surprised with the elegant three-toned bands that Just Jewels gave us,” Cu said of the wedding rings they won designed by former Just Jewels endorser Dawn Zulueta. Perfect for their 2011 Tagaytay wedding in February, the month of love.

“Be adventurous,” Cu said. “Do not stick to the traditional way of proposing to your loved one—you have to think of new ways to surprise the woman of your dreams.” “I think it also helps if you go for a proposal that connects to something your loved one is passionate about,” Carlos added. “My inspiration was Emily’s love for zebras and zebra prints, and I believe that it also shows just how well I know her.” Visit Just Jewels stores today and find inspiration for that ultimate wedding proposal. Just Jewel stores are located in SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia, SM City Manila, SM Southmall, SM City Cebu, SM Baguio City, Glorietta 4, Ayala Center Cebu, and Festival Supermall.

Find your perfect valentine with Avon Fashions

2011-02-11T00:39:00.000-08:00

The season peppered with hearts, showered with flowers and struck by cupid has waltzed in. Love is spelled all over the place with every woman inclined to get spellbound by the romance in the air.

This season, Avon Fashions takes on the role of style cupid and makes you fall in love with its latest collections of intimate apparel perfect for Valentine’s!

Feel the romance with the dreamy inspiration of the Innocent Pleasures Collection, featuring a delicately embroidered brassiere and panty ensemble in peach melba and cream hues. The Cathlyn Underwire Convertible Brassiere (P520) is made of dainty and small floral embroidered lace and has a center ribbon motif and can be worn conventional, strapless, asymmetrical, halter and criss-cross. Perfectly pair this with the Cathlyn Panty (P199).

Complete your Innocent Pleasures collection with the flirty, feminine Cathlyn Sleepwear (P399) made of nylon tricot with ecru lace accent on the neckline and sexy front slit.

Stepping out for a romantic night in a little black dress? Then the Julianna Underwire Brassiere (P425) is your perfect Valentine match. Feel the elegance Julianna’s embroidered two-tone black and cream lace cups accentuated with a ribbon motif on the center gore.

Romance knows neither border nor size. Plus-size women will love Corinne Non-wire Sidewing Brassiere (P410), a set-in bust brassiere in vintage rose color that gives off a classy feel. To provide necessary support, the bra is equipped with a U-shaped back. This comes perfect with the Corinne 2-in-1 Panty Pack (P225) which has a full brief silhouette with outside waist and leg elastics.

Even the young ones are not immune to romance! Celebrate the passion of young love with the houndstooth-printed Couture Club Collection. Filled with raspberry star prints, enjoy the edgy feel of youth with the Brittany Underwire Convertible Brassiere (P385). It comes with two sets of straps for a variety of looks: conventional, halter, strapless, criss-cross, and asymmetrical. Match this with the classic bikini silhouette panty from the Brittany 7-in-1 Panty Pack (P550).

Unique Pinoy coffee habits made delectable with Blend 45

2011-02-08T19:19:00.000-08:00

It is interesting to know that Pinoys who like to keep warm turn to the cozy soothing aroma that can only come from coffee. Ever inventive and innovative, Pinoys have even developed well-loved customs and practices in enjoying coffee that are distinctly Filipino. Blend 45, the truly Pinoy coffee drink from Universal Robina Corporation (URC), celebrates these unique Pinoy quirks in
relishing coffee in many ways. With its trademark sweet and mild taste that’s made for the Pinoy palate, those looking to start their day relaxed and focused can always relish the toasty glow from a hot cup of Blend 45.

The country’s time-honored coffee traditions

Generations of Pinoys have made their almusal more delectable and satisfying by dunking pandesal into the warm and delicious goodness of Blend 45. A classic tradition, the pandesal-coffee match is a well-loved morning or merienda treat that boosts the energy and conjures sensations of cozy days spent with the family, and feelings of contentment and being at ease. Those looking forward to an appetizing almusal also know about pouring a hot cup of Blend 45 over steaming rice to make a meal more delicious. A ritual enjoyed in provinces all over the country, pouring coffee over rice is a popular habit of Pinoys to make mealtimes more filling, flavorful and invigorating.

Many locals in provinces like Laguna always match Blend 45 with delicacies like kesong puti and ube halaya, creating a rich and flavorful merienda. They have also been known to match Blend 45 with traditional treats like the creamy ensaymada, bischoco or barquillos. Batangueños in particular, have enjoyed their own version of Blend 45 as they make the taste sweeter and smoother by adding a bit of panutsa, a sweet delicacy from Batangas that’s made from sugar cane. In the Visayas, local goodies like the suman, a dish made of sticky rice cooked in coconut milk, and puto are paired with smooth-tasting Blend 45 to entice and excite the taste buds. Other delicious fare in the region like the sweet budbog kabog in Dumaguete becomes even tastier when taken with a relaxing cup of Blend 45.

In Mindanao, those wanting to enjoy even more delicious twists to the usual cup of coffee add tablea or sariwang gatas. Davaoeños even add the taste of their favorite durian to a cup of Blend 45 for a novel coffee experience; and locals from Camiguin have always enjoyed blissful dessert goodness when theypair their sweet pastel with the smooth-tasting coffee. Offering delectable taste and aroma that’s distinctly Pinoy, Blend 45 creates the perfect coffee experience from its blend of 45 roasted choice beans. From a soothing cup of coffee to wonderful food pairings, Blend 45 truly lets coffee-lovers discover perfect coffee goodness in many distinctly Filipino ways. With Blend 45’s economical price, everyone can start enjoying unique and truly Pinoy coffee traditions anytime, anywhere.Infinite possibilities are waiting to be discovered and enjoyed only with high-quality and delicious instant coffee from Blend 45, available in all leading sari-sari stores, groceries and supermarkets nationwide.

Valentine recipes for guilt-free indulgence

2011-02-08T18:17:00.000-08:00

Love month is here, and for many, the season is associated with sweet indulgences that can pack on the calories. But romantic treats need not threaten the health-conscious. To show your special someone you care, get creative in the

kitchen with easily available ingredients and Choco Lava, the luscious powdered chocolate drink with zero gram trans fat, less calories, and less sugar. With two simple but flavorful recipes specially concocted by Chef Gino Gonzalez of Buenisimo in Eastwood, February can be so much sweeter, minus the guilt.

Hot Choco Lava Mallow

Ingredients:
¼ cup Choco Lava Powdered Chocolate Drink
1 cup water
½ cup mini marshmallows
1 tablespoon ready-made chocolate sauce

Procedure:
Mix Choco Lava powder and hot water, then pour the mixture into a mug or cup.
Sprinkle the drink with marshmallows and drizzle with chocolate sauce. For a
more romantic presentation, sprinkle Choco Lava powder on the serving saucer.

Choco Lava Crinkles

Ingredients:
1 ¼ cups Choco Lava Powdered Chocolate Drink
2 cups and 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup white sugar
½ cup vegetable oil
4 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon chocolate extract
½ cup confectioner’s sugar

Procedure:
Preheat oven to 350º F. Mix Choco Lava powder, all-purpose flour, baking powder and salt, then set the mixture aside. In a medium bowl, mix white sugar and vegetable oil. Beat eggs into this mixture one at a time. Add vanilla and chocolate extract, then stir. Add the dry ingredients in batches. Refrigerate the dough and chill for one to two hours. After the dough has chilled, line cookie sheets with baking paper. Roll the dough into balls, measuring about an inch each. Coat them in confectioner’s sugar, then place on prepared cookie sheets. Bake in preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Leave on cookie sheet for a minute before transferring to wire racks for cooling.

With these special love month recipes from Choco Lava, you can easily prepare luscious but guilt-free treats for your beloved. A healthier choice for a chocolate drink, Choco Lava is available in leading supermarkets, groceries and convenience stores nationwide.

Anew reinvents wrinkle repair

2011-02-08T17:48:00.000-08:00

Introducing ANEW Reversalist from AVON

AVON introduces a landmark discovery to reactivate the skin’s repair process to help women reverse the look of wrinkles: ANEW Reversalist.

AN ANTI-AGING FIRST IN WRINKLE REPAIR:
When you get a cut, it triggers the production of a key repair molecule, Activin. Since wrinkles are actually a result of micro-injuries to the skin, a team of Avon scientists spent several years of groundbreaking research studying how the skin heals itself and the potential of Activin in wrinkle repair.
Avon scientists discovered how to activate this key repair molecule with a breakthrough new technology, Activinol.

ANEW Reversalist's Activinol technology boosts Activin, to reactivate skin’s repair process and help recreate fresh new skin and dramatically reverse the look of wrinkles.

IMPACT TO THE SCIENTIFIC COMMUNITY:
Avon scientists presented this groundbreaking ANEW discovery in the biology of skin aging at two prominent international scientific conferences for both Researchers and Dermatologists. Linking the stimulation of Activin to boosting skin's vital repair functions has revolutionized the approach to treating the visible signs of aging.

WHAT IS ACTIVINOL TECHNOLOGY:
Avon’s patent-pending Activinol Technology is shown to increase the production of Activin to help boost skin’s ability to repair itself and recreate fresh, new skin. Avon is the first to use this patent-pending complex of two biologically derived Phytochemicals:
• Amorphophallus: Stimulates Activin Production to help trigger skin’s repair process
• Sesbania: Boosts skin’s support structure to help deliver firm, less wrinkled skin

DRAMATIC RESULTS:
Available in day and night creams, the ANEW Reversalist formula reactivates the skin’s repair process, helps reverse wrinkles and recreates fresh, new skin.

ANEW Reversalist Day Renewal Cream is formulated to help reactivate skin’s repair process to help dramatically reverse the look of wrinkles, while keeping skin looking fresh, new, and younger all day.
In efficacy studies, the Renewal Day Cream demonstrated the following dramatic results:
• In just 3 days, begins to reduce the look of wrinkles*
• In 2 weeks, discolorations visibly improved up to 25%**
• Over time, dramatically reduces the look of wrinkles and discolorations and skin looks
dramatically tighter

ANEW Reversalist Night Renewal Cream has a velvety, creamy texture for a smooth, soft, powdery finish.
• In 2 weeks, 73% of women said their skin looked and felt reborn.1**
• Fine wrinkles improved up to 25%**
• In 4 weeks, the appearance of fine wrinkles and discolorations was dramatically reduced,
leaving skin feeling dramatically tighter***

HOW TO USE: The new ANEW Reversalist products are meant to be used as part of an everyday regimen to reach maximum benefits for the skin. Use once every morning and then once in the evening. Gently smooth over cleansed face and neck, in an upward and outward motion avoiding eyelids. Some individuals may experience a brief tingling sensation following application.

AVAILABILITY: ANEW Reversalist Day and Night Renewal Cream (Php999) will be available beginning February 16, 2011 through Avon Ladies nationwide.

Don’t have an Avon Lady yet, log on to www.avon.com.ph to find out how to contact an Avon Representative.

With HAVAIANAS, it's always summer

2011-01-31T23:13:00.000-08:00

For most people, summer is the best time of the year. Summer is a time when they are free to enjoy the moment and indulge in life’s pleasures. This 2011, one ‘hot’ campaign will extend the spirit of summer throughout the year by the brand that knows summer best – Havaianas.

A companion of Filipinos during their happy moments under the sun, Havaianas is an essential part of summer days at the beach or in the city. Every summer, flip-flops lovers sport their favorite Havaianas as they journey to new summer destinations, stroll in shopping malls, or lounge in the summer sun. The summer spirit prompts people to indulge in happiness, creating a season that stirs people to go out, make a splash, and have fun.

But what happens when the summer season is over? Do the fun and happy memories stop there? Definitely not! The season may end but summer can still live on. Come rain or cold weather, one can still think about its sunshine, foster its warmth with positive thinking, and laugh like it’s always the year’s favorite season.

Havaianas, the world’s favorite flip-flops and summer brand, celebrates summer starting now. To encourage the summer state of mind, Havaianas launches the ‘Always Summer’ campaign to remind Filipinos that they don’t need to wait for the season to rejoice in its spirit. Summer never ends and neither do the happy moments that come with it.

“Havaianas is committed to bringing summer to every Filipino,” says Anne Gonzalez, Managing Director of Havaianas Philippines. “And that is why we’re spearheading a year-round celebration of summer—a season when some of our best memories of happiness and kindness are made.”

As part of its year-long summer celebration, Havaianas is launching the Havaianas “Always Summer: Race to Hawaii” contest. Flip-flops lovers nationwide can compete in a day of exciting summer fun by purchasing two pairs of Havaianas and winning a slot in the race. Winners in the regional leg will proceed to Boracay – all expenses paid – to compete in the final leg for the ultimate prize: a trip for two to Hawaii - the land that inspired Havaianas.

This exciting and unique race is only the beginning for Havaianas. “This is our way to achieve our vision of sharing summer with all the flip-flops lovers who never forget to wear their favorite Havaianas as they play, travel, and indulge in fun-filled activities.” says Gonzalez.

For Havaianas, summer is here and now. It’s as simple as a smile, a wink, or a laugh and as lasting as our favorite memories. Live like it’s always summer with Havaianas.

Experience summer fun and adventure from here to Boracay to Hawaii with Havaianas. Race begins at participating authorized Havaianas retailers.

Visit www.havaianassummer.com for details.

Get set for the year with Nike Sportswear Spring 2011 Collection

2011-01-31T18:42:00.000-08:00

Love the sport. Live the style.

Manila, January 2011 – We may not have winter but there’s no stopping us from celebrating the vibrancy of Spring and getting ourselves geared up for the year ahead. This spring, Nike Sportswear lets you flaunt your favourite hues that make great lifestyle selections.

Born from mavericks, pioneers, iconoclasts, the founding members started Athletics West because nothing like it existed. The experimentation, the breaking of new ground and taking talent to the next level resulted in them changing the face of sport as their generation knew it. This spirit and DNA of Athletics West continues to live through our Nike Sportswear line.

This state of mind, a shared passion and an attitude that connects athletes is synonymous to the increasing call for an active lifestyle where sportswear and urban wear gains prominence in our wardrobes. A history of listening to what athletes want, Nike Sportswear marries style and optimum performance for today’s consumers.

Nike Philippines Country Marketing Manager Mae Dichupa said, “Nike Sportswear celebrates the icons originally designed for the world’s best athletes. These styles, true to the culture of sport and Nike’s heritage, have been re-mastered into stylish urban wear to complement today’s lifestyle. While the designs are original and true to form, the icons are revitalised with a radiant display of modern colours, signature detailing, premium materials and modern innovations to create an unrivalled collection.”

This Spring, Nike Sportswear is amplified through icons such as the N98 track jackets and a sweet blast from the past with the V-series range of shoes.

N98
The statement-making piece in the Nike Sportswear SP11 Collection is the N98 track jacket, short for National 1998, inspired by the first kit Nike designed for Brazil’s legendary national team, and perfected by Nike Sportswear. Defined by a certain boldness that befits an icon, the N98 track jacket makes a statement with a striking stripe down the sleeve and a tailored fit for a smart-casual look. Double-knit for comfort, the jacket is cut close but not too tight and features a high-rise collar to protect your neck. Obsess over the stitch and zipper pulls – the sportswear twist is all abou refinement resulting in a jacket with detailing you feel, from flat knit ribbing to bonded seams to fluid, double-welded zips.

V-Series
At Nike, we believe you don’t make things better by making them complicated. This Spring, the V-series is a testament to our philosophy – a line of shoes that cut through all the clutter to make running simple. Originally released in the 1980’s, the line features three different types of performance running shoes for three different types of runners. For extra stability, select the Vector. Looking for lightweight cushioning for fast-paced training, lace up the Vengeance. For the best of both worlds, slip your feet into the Vortex. This season’s star, the V-series have been infused with Lunar, to produce greater impact on the track and off. Keep your eyes peeled for the Lunar Racer Vengeance and Lunar Venture+.

The Nike Sportswear SP11 collection is now available at all NIKE outlets. For a list of NIKE stores, visit www.nikesportswear.com.ph. The N98 retails at P3,795 and the V-series - Air Vengeance SI, Nike Air Vortex, and Nike Air Venture, at P3,995 each.

Havaianas... always summer

2011-01-28T01:10:00.000-08:00

Manila Hotel Offers Tikoys with a Healthy Twist this Chinese New Year

2011-01-27T21:32:00.000-08:00

Kung Hei Fat Choi!

The Chinese New Year is celebrated with much anticipation and festivity as it signals the start of a new beginning. As part of its celebration, Manila Hotel is selling tikoy from January 18, 2011 to February 05, 2011. It comes in three delectable flavors: Almond, Osmanthus, and Sancha and are carefully wrapped in elegant flip-top boxes. Prices start at PhP 480.00 net.

Tikoy or Chinese New Year Cake symbolizes the togetherness of the family and its usual circular shape represents the never ending flow of luck. Made from sticky rice, tikoy is said to be an offering to the Kitchen God to secure his favor so he would only report sweet things to the Jade Emperor. But there is another reason to celebrate. Under the supervision of Executive Chinese Chef Sun Bing, the tikoy is given a fresh spin with new flavors that are sure to delight everyone’s sweet cravings.

“For the Chinese New Year, we have re-created the tikoy by using natural ingredients such as almonds, Hawthorn berries, and Osmanthus flowers that have health benefits and perfectly blend with the sweet and delicate taste of the tikoy,” says Nian Liwanag-Rigor, AVP for PR and Corporate Communications of Manila Hotel.

Your kids will surely enjoy the Almond Tikoy that has a light, sweet taste with a hint of almond. Almonds have 90 % unsaturated fats and are high in protein, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and Vitamin E making it a healthy snack. The Osmanthus Tikoy, which is flavored with osmanthus flower, has a distinct tea-like taste and fragrant aroma. Tea lover or not, you will be delighted to know that osmanthus flowers contain antioxidants for clearer skin and provide relief from rheumatism. The Sancha Tikoy, sweetened with Hawthorn berries, has a wonderfully blended tart and sweet taste pleasing to the palate. Hawthorn berries are used to treat angina, high blood pressure and are found to strengthen the heart.

Welcome the prosperous year of the Rabbit with a positive attitude and begin that with these healthy treats from Manila Hotel.

Tikoy is sold at the Mabuhay Palace Chinese New Year Booth at the lobby of Manila Hotel from January 18, 2011 to February 05, 2011, 8 am to 10 pm, daily. For inquires pls call 02 527-0011 local 1261.

Blackberry's Chinese New Year Apps

2011-01-25T22:58:00.000-08:00

Chinese New Year is a time for celebrating, visiting family and sharing. In the midst of all the festivities to bring in the year of the rabbit, you will be able to better keep in touch with family who are far away with handy apps like Smiley Pack and Message Prevue. Budget your HongBaos with Mobile Checkbook and play a different version of Mahjong Solitaire to keep yourself entertained while waiting for your turn at the table. Gōng Xǐ Fā Cái!

1. Chun 2011 – Chinese New Year (Free)
Chun 2011 is a free theme that customizes your BlackBerry with a background and icon set inspired by traditional Chinese art.

Users can download the application from the link below or can scan the QR code.
https://appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/content/25273

2. Message Prevue (US$1.99)

Busy playing mahjong this CNY and your hands are not free to check your phone? Message Prevue provides a pop up box for users to read who’s emailing or texting without having to key in the password.

Users can download the application from the link below or can scan the QR code.
http://appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/content/20634?lang=en

3. Photo Editor (US$0.99)
Take pictures this Chinese New Year with your BlackBerry device and edit them right away with this handy photo editor. Once done, you can share photos easily through social networking sites. What better way to treasure the moments with family?

Users can download the application from the link below or can scan the QR code.
http://appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/content/13546?lang=en

4. Smiley Pack (US$0.99)
Have so much to express this festive period but too little emoticons to do it? Download the Smiley Pack- Icons Fancy Characters and Smileys for BlackBerry Messenger and send creative messages to loved ones.

Users can download the application from the link below or can scan the QR code.
http://appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/content/16549?lang=en

5. Battery Saver (US$0.99)
Track your battery usage and with this app that also helps users to boost and optimise usage so that you never run out when visiting family to celebrate.

Users can download the application from the link below or can scan the QR code.
http://appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/content/11924?lang=en

6. Chinese Zodiac Rabbit (US$1.99) – Compatible with Curve 3G
Usher in the Year of the rabbit with the zodiac sign of the rabbit as a BlackBerry background on your smartphone.

Users can download the application from the link below or can scan the QR code.
http://appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/content/19370?lang=en

7. Mobile Checkbook (US$4.99)
Anticipating lots of HongBaos this year? Scared of spending it all at once? The all-new Mobile Checkbook 4.0 is loaded with new features that make managing money easier than ever. Mobile Checkbook is perfect for users who have ever had trouble keeping track of their account balances.

Users can download the application from the link below or can scan the QR code.
http://appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/content/674?lang=en

8. Chinese Zodiac (US$2.99)
Chinese Zodiac application for BlackBerry is a Chinese astrology/horoscopes application that converts your western birth date to a Chinese lunar birth date, and finds out your animal sign. Lead a happy and prosperous life with this zodiac application, available for constant consultation.

Users can download the application from the link below or can scan the QR code.
http://appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/content/7282?lang=en

9. Mahjong Solitaire (US$2.99)
Mahjong Solitaire is a puzzle game based on the classic Chinese game for four persons. The goal of the game is to remove all tiles from the board by paired matching. Try this game for excellent graphics and long term addictive play. Don’t just play it at Chinese New Year, play it all through the year!

Users can download the application from the link below or can scan the QR code.
http://appworld.blackberry.com/webstore/content/572?lang=en

Let your love story unfold at the Manila Hotel

2011-01-23T21:53:00.000-08:00

The month of February is upon us again. The air is suddenly filled with sweet exchanges of words and the wafting scent of flowers is unmistakable. One of the most anticipated times of the year, February sets the mood for romance and fuels the heart with valor to profess its love.

This Valentine’s season, Manila Hotel invites you to celebrate the month of love with your special someone by availing of their special room packages. Feel the romance the moment you step inside the hotel as the evening choir at the hotel’s magnificent lobby serenades you with love songs every weekend for the entire month of February. Bask in the hotel’s romantic ambience set by its elegant and luxurious décor that have been silent witnesses of the greatest love stories ever told.

We offer you Love Story and From Manila Hotel with Love room packages to help you exquisitely convey your true feelings this season. Avail of Love Story from February 4-28, 2011 and the From Manila Hotel with Love from February 11-16, 2011 to have a memorable Valentine celebration like no other. Both packages include an overnight stay at a Superior Deluxe Room or at a Sunset/Sunrise Suite with high speed internet access and buffet breakfast for two at the newly renovated Café Ilang-Ilang. You will instantly be in the mood to celebrate the moment you check-in with a bottle of wine. Pamper yourself with the complimentary use of the swimming pool and the Health Club facilities. Enjoy a 20% discount on Spa treatments and packages at the Manila Hotel Spa and 10% discount in all of the hotel’s restaurants when you dine. Spend the night at the Roma Salon on Fridays and Saturdays and enjoy music from the Live Band free of charge. Guests who are staying at the Sunset/Sunrise Suite can indulge in a delectable praline gift box to make their stay even sweeter.

Choose the From Manila Hotel with Love room package if you want your room to be transformed into a romantic retreat with a long stem rose on your bed and bathtub filled with rose petals.

Love Story is priced at PhP 6,500.00 net/night for the Superior Deluxe Room and PhP 15,550.00 net/night for the Sunset/Sunrise Suite. The weekend Valentine package From Manila Hotel with Love is priced at PhP 3,999.00 net/night for the Super Deluxe Room and PhP 7,999.00 net/night for the Sunset/Sunrise Suite.

Spend an enchanting time with your significant other and we’ll make sure you enjoy every minute together. Let your love unfold here at the idyllic Manila Hotel with its dramatic interiors that radiate romance and passion. Echoing Ernest Hemingway, it is a good story if it is like Manila Hotel. Make yours today.

For reservations, please call Manila Hotel at 02 527-0011 or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

Jollibee introduces the new Spicy Chicken Barbecue

2011-01-05T18:06:00.000-08:00

Filipinos are always looking for a new twist to their daily routine – whether at work or even at play. From lifestyle activities, fashion sensibilities and tasteful delicacies, innovative Pinoys always find ways to spice up their lives the fun and creative way. Jollibee, the innovative leader in the country’s fast-food industry, puts a new and spicy twist to its trademark Chicken Barbecue by infusing its secret recipe with rich and flavorful spices.

The new Spicy Jollibee Chicken Barbecue gives an added zest to your favorite Chicken Barbecue, while still retaining the juicy and delicious inside and out goodness of the original. And it comes in many different choice offerings so chicken lovers can enjoy Jollibee’s latest innovation in plenty of ways.

The Spicy Jollibee Chicken Barbecue is available in 1-piece and 2-piece solo meals that come with rice, affordably priced at P69 and P114, respectively. The 1-piece value meal costs only P85 while the 2-piece value meal is priced at P130, both come with rice and regular softdrinks. You can also pair the Spicy Jollibee Chicken Barbecue with other Jollibee favorites - the Spaghetti or Palabok Fiesta that come in value meals complete with softdrinks.

Barkadas who enjoy having an added spicy twist to their meals can also share either a 6-piece or 12-piece Spicy Jollibee Chicken Barbecue bucket. Or they can opt to delight in a combo bucket mixed with either the original Jollibee Chicken Barbecue or the Chickenjoy. The 6-piece bucket is priced at P320 and the 12-piece at P640.

Filipino food lovers looking for a twist to their daily menu can definitely find the excitement that their taste buds crave. With the right blend of flavors and spices rolled into one sumptuous meal, the Spicy Jollibee Chicken Barbecue will surely be another hit among Pinoys.

Visit any Jollibee store nationwide, call 8-7000 Jollibee Express Delivery (for Metro Manila only), or log on to www.jollibeedelivery.com to savor the new Spicy Jollibee Chicken Barbecue!

Greenwich Opens first casual store in Trinoma

2010-12-21T00:03:00.000-08:00

The Philippines’ favorite pizza chain Greenwich continues to be on the pulse of what’s in as it opens its newest fast-casual store in Trinoma. Located at the second floor of the popular mall’s Al Fresco area, the new store boasts of an even cozier ambience and a refreshing look, giving those in the north of the metro a great place for a fun barkada experience.

“Greenwich’s fast-casual store concept is about a great place that offers delicious pizza and pasta that are great for bonding with friends. And as part of our commitment to keep giving our barkada customers a leveled up dining experience, we are launching our new and leveled up fast-casual stores starting with Trinoma. This new store has all-new murals, more booth seats, even posh couches and chairs. Being the most innovative pizza brand, we not only pioneer unique pizza variants. We also always make it a point that friends enjoy our delicious products at our new fast-casual stores” says Greenwich marketing director Luis Velasco III.

The new branch in Trinoma, with its contemporary design, offers a very relaxing ambience. From the outside, the façade lures one in with its laid-back look. Inside, subdued lighting and plush red seats make it easy to spend hours chatting with friends and enjoying good food. Colorful photo panels and murals also adorn the walls and the order counter has a more streamlined look. Overall, the comfortably hip interiors, together with Greenwich’s unbeatable menu and warm service, easily make Greenwich Trinoma store a top option for friends looking for an awesome place to hang out in the north. Even heartthrob John Lloyd Cruz (along with the rest of the Greenwich barkada) and DJ Gelli Victor had a great time at the store when they visited it during its recent opening.

“The Greenwich branch in Trinoma is the new favorite hangout of barkadas in the north part of Metro Manila, even those who don’t live nearby come here to actually experience the place,” adds Velasco.

Greenwich’s fast-casual store concept was an innovation that began in 2007. The company’s first fast-casual branch on Ayala Ave., Makati proved to be a hit with the young crowd, prompting the development of more fast-casual stores. Diners can only expect bigger and more exciting things from Greenwich in the coming months.