Universal Channel presents Fast and Furious marathon showcasing all three movies in a row

Buckle up and get ready for a thrilling ride this month! The highly-anticipated cinematic release of the Fast & Furious 7 is hitting theaters nationwide but before that, Universal Channel gives you a little treat in preparation for this arrival. Viewers across Asia will have the chance to see three movies from the well-loved blockbuster franchise – 2 Fast 2 Furious (Fast & Furious 2), Fast and Furious (Fast & Furious 4) and Fast Five (Fast & Furious 5).

These franchise favorites will premiere on Universal Channel starting on 31 March 2015, Tuesday, at 10:00 PM with 2 Fast 2 Furious. On 1 April 2015, Wednesday, a back-to-back presentation of Fast and Furious and Fast Five will be shown starting at 8:55 PM. Finally, settle in for a Fast and Furious marathon showcasing all three movies in a row during the weekend of 4 April 2015, Saturday at 7:55 PM, to 5 April 2015, Sunday at 6:00 PM.

The film showing will truly help ignite fans’ passion and drive for the unstoppable Fast & Furious 7, with the returning cast led by Vin Diesel, Paul Walker and Dwayne Johnson. Director James Wan comes with this chapter of the hugely successful series that also welcomes back Filipino fan favorites Michelle Rodriguez, Jordana Brewster, Tyrese Gibson, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Elsa Pataky and Lucas Black.

Fuel up with this adrenaline-filled month of April and satisfy your need for speed only on Universal Channel.

Universal Channel airs on Channel 73 for Sky Cable, Channels 27 (analog) and 73 (digital) for Destiny Cable, Channel 110 HD for Cignal and Channel 31 for Cablelink.

See Fast & Furious 7 in IMAX 3D and 3D cinemas, showing on 4 April 2015 in Philippine cinemas nationwide.

Starmobile unveils the Knight Vision with built-in Digital TV (DTV) receiver

Shortly after launching the KNIGHT X, the most powerful Pinoy smartphone ever, Philippine smart devices brand Starmobile makes another mark in the local smartphone market as it unveils the KNIGHT Vision, first Pinoy Android smartphone with a built-in Digital TV (DTV) receiver.

“We are proud to introduce the KNIGHT Vision as we believe that DTV technology presents the biggest change in TV viewing ever,” said Starmobile Product Development Head Michael Chen. “Mobile DTV is bigger than the introduction of color and HD broadcast combined.” he added.

Unlike regular Analog TV broadcasts, DTV uses digital TV signals to deliver clean and crisp images and audio comparable to that of cable TV. There is no static, thus resulting in crystal clear audio and pictures wherever DTV services are available nationwide.

The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has mandated that all local TV stations make the shift to DTV broadcast within the next 3 to 5 years. To date, major networks such as ABS-CBN and GMA have begun offering their programs via DTV for free.

The Starmobile KNIGHT Vision is compatible with the NTC’s DTV standard.

“The KNIGHT Vision can change the way modern Filipinos enjoy TV forever–from a ‘fixed’ activity where they have to stay where the television set is located such as the living room or bedroom—TV is now a truly ‘mobile’ experience where they are free to watch together or individually wherever and whenever they please,” said Chen.  “No more fighting over the remote control!”

Apart from DTV, the KNIGHT Vision also boasts of a camera with a built-in Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS).

Yet another first for a Pinoy smartphone, OIS minimizes image shaking when taking photos or videos. This enables users to take sharper photos compares to phones with non-OIS cameras.

“DTV lets you watch awesome videos, with OIS you can take awesome videos–and photos and photos as well! The KNIGHT Vision is a ground-breaking device that ushers in a true audio-visual revolution,” said Chen.

The Starmobile KNIGHT Vision will be available in stores nationwide by mid-April for only P9,990. For more information, visitwww.starmobile.com.ph or call 333-7827.

Ayala malls supports The Gastronomy Festival in celebration of Madrid Fusion Manila

The Ayala Malls opens up an exciting world of flavor with The Gastronomy Festival

Madrid fusion was launched last March 26 at Fairmont Hotel. Madrid Fusion Manila puts the spotlight on the Philippines as an Asian center of gastronomy, and to promote the country as a top culinary destination for 2015. Being one of the banner projects of “Visit the Philippines 2015”,

An explosion of bold flavors, exotic ingredients and mouthwatering aromas are set to tickle the palate in the most, exciting way through the first local edition of Madrid Fusion.

For more than 12 years, Madrid Fusion has been the most important international gastronomic event on progressive haute cuisine in Spain, and for the first time in history, the event will be held outside Madrid, and comes to the Philippines through the efforts of the Department of Tourism.

Ayala Malls supports this important culinary milestone with an exceptional showcase of music, film, and the best Filipino-Spanish fare through The Gastronomy Festival at Ayala Malls – part of Department of Tourism’s Flavors of the Philippines Festival, in celebration of Madrid Fusion Manila.

Food takes center stage
From April 10 to 26, select restaurants of Greenbelt, Bonifacio High Street and Ayala Center Cebu will offer Menu Degustación – specialty dishes that imbibe the spirit of culinary innovation, techniques, and deconstruction. Savor the exquisite flavours of classic dishes, as well as new culinary creations crafted by Ayala Malls’ premier restaurants. Participating restaurants include Cibo, Lusso, Fely J’s, Lorenzo’s Way, Chihuahua, Café Havana, Sumo Sam, John & Yoko, and Balboa, all in Greenbelt; 2nd’s Restaurant, Lorenzo’s Way, Nanbantei of Tokyo, Wild West Roadhouse, Beso Cucina and Vinoteka, and Wolf & Fox Gastropub, all in Bonifacio High Street; and New Orleans, Seafood Island, and Sumo Sam; all in Ayala Center Cebu.

Good food with good conversations await in Cocinas Viajeras, a stylized food truck festival featuring Ayala Malls’ premier restaurants, and the creations of top chefs, including Chef Gaita Fores, Chef Chele Gonzales, Chef Myrna Segismundo, Chef Rob Pengson, Chef JP Anglo, Chef Noel dela Rama, and Chef Sau del Rosario. Catch the Cocinas Viajeras as they tour Bonifacio High Street (April 10-12), Trinoma (April 11-12), Glorietta (April 17-18), and Alabang Town Center (April 24-25).

Even the everyday diner has a reason to celebrate with Merienda, an afternoon foodie treat at an unbeatable price. Merienda will be served from 2pm to 5pm on April 13-16 and April 20-23 at Food Choices of Glorietta, and Alabang Town Center, with Market! Market offering Merienda at both Food Choices and Fiesta Market!. Over at Ayala Center Cebu, Merienda will be offered from April 20-24.

Fiesta! Food & Music Festival 
Food is not simply about satiating appetite, it’s an all-sensory experience that excites and inspires. So to truly embrace the essence of Madrid Fusion Manila, Ayala Malls also cooked up Fiesta!, a food and musical festival that blends the fascinating worlds of gastronomy and music.

Delight in the Festival de la Paella Gigante III at Greebelt 3 Park on April 18, where you can partake of giant paella prepared by Chef J Gamboa, Chef Fernando Aracama, Chef Carlo Miguel and Chef Mikkel Arriet; and enjoy live music by DJ Lean & the Patiqueros, DJ Badkiss, and BP Valenzuela, along with a dance performance by Centro Flamenco.

Indulge in the culinary and musical delights where top DJs and bands such as Pulso, Up Dharma Down, and Sinyma, fill your night with heart-thumping dance beats. Head over and party at Bonifacio High Street and Alabang Town Center on April 25, and Fairview Terraces on April 25-26.

Fiesta! also makes it way down south at Ayala Center Cebu on  April 24-26, and Centrio Mall at Cagayan de Oro on April 18 for the Kagay-anon Sinuglaw Festival, in partnership with DOT Region 10.

Pelikula: Spanish Foodie Film Festival
Ayala Malls, together with the Embassy of Spain, serve a visual feast with films that center on the art of gastronomy. Pelikula: The Spanish Foodie Film Festival will happen exclusively at the Greenbelt 3 Cinema from April 22 to 26, with films such as Mugartiz B.S.O.; 3055 Jean Leon; El Somni del Celler de Can Roca; El Pollo, El Pez, y el Cangrejo Real; and Taba. Table Game Nerua A Journey to the Essence Cooking up to a Tribute. Tickets are priced at P100 per screening and available at Greenbelt.

Bonifacio High Street will also hold an outdoor foodie film screening on April 11.


Mercado 
Excited foodies can experience a taste of The Gastronomy Festival early with Mercado — a mini marketplace that features Spanish-Filipino gourmet fare, cured meats, fresh produce, breads, wine and cheeses, and live performances by Sabor Latino, and Batu Yilmaz. Catch Mercado at Trinoma on March 27-28, Glorietta on April 10-11, Greenbelt on April 23-24, and Alabang Town Center and Fairview Terraces on April 25-26.

From time-tested culinary classics to new epicurean delights, The Gastronomy Festival offers a bite of Spain and holds no reservations in giving gourmands all that they want and need. Enjoy the food and festivities all happening at Ayala Malls. ¡Buen provecho!

For more details, please visit Ayala Malls on Facebook at facebook.com/ayalamalls; on Twitter @iloveayalamalls; on Instagram @iloveayalamalls; or log on to www.ayalamalls.com.ph.

Backstreet Boys Back in Manila on May 5!

Backstreet Boys, acclaimed as the best-selling boy band of all time which dominated the music and recording industry from the early 1990s onwards, is coming to Manila to do a major concert on May 5 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

The group is loved for its many huge hits like “I Want It That Way,” “Everybody (“Backstreet’s Back”),” “As Long As You Love Me,” “I’ll Never Break Your Heart,” “Anywhere For You,” “Larger Than Life,” “Show Me The Meaning Of Being Lonely,” “This Is Us,” “Never Gone,” “Unbreakable,” and many more. With over 130 million records sold worldwide, Backstreet Boys has left its mark in the music and recording industry as one of the world’s top-selling music artists.

Formed in 1993 in Orlando, Florida,  Backstreet Boys first attracted worldwide attention with its self-titled debut international album (1996),  its second international album, “Backstreet’s Back” (1997),  and its debut album in the US.

On April 22,  2013, the multiple award-winning and Grammy-nominated group received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

In commemoration of its 20th anniversary in the music and recording industry, Backstreet Boys came out with a full-length movie documentary titled, “Backstreet Boys” Show “Em What You’re Made Of,” which was filmed over two years and chronicles its musical journey by delving into the extremes of fame and fortune that each member has undergone.

An emotionally open and honest documentation of the biggest and most successful musical group in history, the film documentary stars original group members Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, Brian Litrell, AJ McLean and Kevin Richardson, who also produced the film along with Mia Bays.

Ihe film opened last Jan. 30 in theaters and video-on-demands throughout the US through Gravitas Ventures, released  in February in the United Kingdom and Europe and on March 28 worldwide.

The documentary will have its worldwide television premiere as part of the Emmy Award-winning “VH1 Rock Docs” franchise scheduled to debut on VH1 in the Spring of 2015.

(“Backstreet Boys Live In Manila 2015!” is presented by Ovation Productions and Live Nation.  Tickets prices are P7920, 6870, 5810, 4760, 3700, 2640, 930 available at all sm tickets outlets and online at www.smtickets.com.)

Meet Century Tuna’s newest faces who are ABS-olutely ready for summer!

The sun is at its peak and the beaches look more inviting than ever, but can you say that you’re ready for summer? Century Tuna, the country’s number 1 tuna, once again welcomes the hottest season of the year as it presents the country’s hottest and most promising stars as its newest batch of brand ambassadors.

Making the road to fitness more inspiring and more exciting, the company proudly presents not just one, but four stunning endorsers who represent some of the biggest names in the industry – Paulo Avelino, James Reid, Elmo Magalona and Jessy Mendiola.

“Century Tuna has been known not only for our line of products, but also for our vision of helping our consumers achieve a healthier and happier lifestyle,” says Greg Banzon, general manager of Century Pacific Food Corporation. “We believe that this powerful advocacy requires only the most influential ambassadors who can inspire others through their sexy bodies and healthy lifestyle. And so this year, we strengthen our campaign through with newest batch of endorsers who have also undergone stunning body transformations,” he added.


Known for his enviable bod, striking features and acting prowess is the Gawad Urian awardee Paulo Avelino. Paulo has been living an active lifestyle for years now to maintain his figure. In fact, the actor is engaged in numerous sports activities like badminton, rock climbing and jogging. “Being tapped as a Century Tuna endorser is overwhelming. Now that I am part of the body transformation campaign, I hope to become an inspiration to those who have often expressed admiration of my physique,” Paulo shared.

Meanwhile, Filipino-Australian heartthrob James Reid finds this opportunity to be a sweet reward to his hard work to achieve his now toned figure: “I used to be thin and weak years ago – I even had asthma. But through swimming and gymnastics, and a healthy diet, I’ve become more buffed. I’m definitely proud of the new me.”

Raring to make a name for himself in showbiz, Elmo Magalona ventured into acting, rapping, singing, and hosting. Over time, people also noticed his body’s remarkable transformation. At 20 years old, Elmo has already developed chiseled abs and very muscular arms through a customized workout and disciplined diet. “As the youngest in the bunch, I’d like to let people know that they can – and should – start early in their journey to a healthy body,” he shared.

The only lady in the batch is the beautiful actress who has captured the hearts of many with her angelic face and sexy body: Jessy Mendiola. Jessy has graced a lot of magazine covers and TV commercials, yet she finds something uniquely exciting about her Century Tuna experience: “I’m excited to show a different side of me: a grown-up Jessy who consciously takes care of her body through proper diet and exercise. Plus it’s always nice to endorse a product I truly love!”

Through the inspiring stories of Century Tuna’s newest faces Paulo, James, Elmo and Jessy, the country’s leading tuna brand aims to help more and more people understand that anybody can bring out the better versions of themselves and be ABS-solutely ready for summer.

The four new endorsers join long-time endorser Anne Curtis in promoting the ABS-solutely delicious Century Tuna as a brand that motivates people to aspire for a healthy body.” For all of them, there’s no other tuna!

For more information and fitness tips, visit www.centurytuna.ph.

Caltex-Robinsons Rewards Loyalty Program Launch

Caltex and Robinsons Retail Holdings, Inc. partners up for the Reward Loyalty Program launch last March 26, 2015 at Makati Shangri-la Hotel.

There's a lot more reason to choose Caltex when you gas up, you get to earn more points by showing your Robinsons Rewards Card each time you fueled up at any participating Caltex stations nationwide. You can use your points to redeem P1 discount for every one liter fuel purchase.  Every five liter gas up earns a point which means that the more customers fuel up at Caltex and shop at Robinsons, the more points for fuel and shopping savings. There are many participating establishments included such as Shiseido and Benefit, and I get to earn points when shopping for my favorite skincare and makeups.

Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI), marketer of Caltex fuels and lubricants, teamed up with Robinsons Retail Holdings, Inc. (RRHI), the second largest multi-format retailer in the Philippines, to create a unique offer that allows customers to quickly and continually add value to their purchases by getting a variety of fuel and shopping rewards through their RRC.

Because of this loyalty program partnership, motorists now have more reasons to choose Caltex. Customers can save more on fuel costs when they purchase Caltex with Techron plus the five benefits of maximized power, improved fuel economy, lower emission, smoother drive and reliable performance.

In addition to fuel savings, RRC members will also enjoy big discounts in their shopping and grocery purchases as points earned at participating Caltex stations can be redeemed at any of 1,180 Robinsons stores nationwide which include Robinsons Department Store, Robinsons Supermarket, Robinsons Selections, Robinsons Easymart, Robinsons Appliances, Handyman, True Value, AM Builders’ Depot, Toys “R” Us, Daiso Japan, Topshop, Topman, Dorothy Perkins, Miss Selfridge, Burton Menswear, Warehouse, River Island, Shana, G2000, Shiseido and Benefit.

Customers can avail of this benefit by signing up for RRC membership at any Robinsons stores for P150 only.

CPI values the patronage of its customers by giving them access to top loyalty programs in the market.  Last year, CPI partnered with Jollibee Food Corporation’s Happyplus program which continues to grow in memberships. Happyplus will run alongside the Robinsons Rewards Card loyalty program and customers can choose which of the rewards program they want to use.

“Caltex has been in the Philippines for over 75 years. Throughout this time, the Caltex brand has remained relevant to Filipino motorists because we are able to support their changing lifestyles and needs. This partnership allows us to uniquely reward thousands of motorists and shoppers for their loyalty to Caltex and Robinsons. We are truly proud of this long-term relationship with Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc.”said Peter Morris, Chevron Philippines Inc., Country Chairman and General Manager for Philippine products.

Robina Gokongwei-Pe, president and COO of RRHI. said “We at Robinsons Retail are always looking for new ways to delight our customers and give them a better customer experience.  That is why we are very happy to partner with Chevron Philippines Inc.’s, Caltex service stations to expand the acceptance of Robinsons Rewards beyond stores operated by Robinsons. This will be a welcome development to over 800,000 members of the Robinsons Rewards Card. With more than 700 Caltex service stations nationwide, we are very honored to have Chevron Philippines as our first external partner for Robinsons Rewards.”


For more details regarding the new loyalty program, visit http://www.caltex.com.ph and https://www.facebook.com/RobinsonsRewardsCard.

Freshen any room with Renuzit Scents

I am a fan of Gel air freshener, its the one that I cant live without, I wanted to wake up with a room smells of raspberry or anything fruity to begin my day with. Last week prior to Renuzit launch event, we happened to purchase an adjustable gel air freshener at SM North. I love the packaging and the fragrance and it allows me to adjust the level of freshening power, the product is non toxic and biodegradable, and it reads Renuzit,  the After the Rain variant.

Renuzit, America's No.1 Air Gel Freshener was presented to the media last March 24 at Le Jardin Penthouse, W Bldg 5th Ave, Bonfacio Global City, hosted by the lovely socialite, columnist, Ms. Sea Princess herself Ms. Tessa Prieto -Valdes.  The room was adorned with home design and fragrance from Renuzit Raspberry variant emanated in every corner of the room, it smelled sweet and playful.

The Renuzit adjustable solid gel air fresheners are biodegradable and made of 97% natural ingredients. It offers a wide range of scents to choose from according to your desired smell and moods,  you can place it in your bedroom, living room, bathroom, shoe closets or kitchen for any reason or occasion. It provides air freshening benefits and its easy to use and economical as well.

The event came up with a contest that requires to decorate a part of the room incorporating Renuzit variants in it, our "Yellow team" came up as second for its relaxing and inviting message of romance, we chose the Renuzit fragrance Fresh Lavender and Simply Vanilla for our "bedroom" and decorated it with  flowers, scented candles and leaves and made up with the title "Ignite your Romance"

The Renuzit cone-shaped adjustable fresh air gel is now available in eight scents, Citrus Sunburst, Super Odor Killer, Fresh Lavender, After the Rain, Simply Vanilla, Relaxing Spa, Sapphire Waters, and Raspberry scent. It retails at P109.75 per cone and is distributed in the Philippines by Unisell Corp.

Dream Large, Live Larger with "Entourage"

“Dream Large. Live Larger.” That's the mission statement of Warner Bros. Pictures' “Entourage,” the much-anticipated big-screen version of the award-winning hit HBO series, which has just released a new poster and trailer which may be viewed at https://youtu.be/oI2cZzEAxjY.


The film reunites the show’s original cast, led by Kevin Connolly, Adrian Grenier, Kevin Dillon, Jerry Ferrara and Jeremy Piven.

In “Entourage,” movie star Vincent Chase (Grenier), together with his boys, Eric (Connolly), Turtle (Ferrara) and Johnny (Dillon), are back…and back in business with super agent-turned-studio head Ari Gold (Piven). Some of their ambitions have changed, but the bond between them remains strong as they navigate the capricious and often cutthroat world of Hollywood.

Also starring are Billy Bob Thornton and Haley Joel Osment as father and son, Larsen and Travis McCredle. Returning cast from the series also includes Perrey Reeves as Ari Gold’s wife; Emmanuelle Chriqui as Sloan; Rhys Coiro as Billy Walsh; Debi Mazar as Vince’s publicist, Shauna; Rex Lee as Lloyd; Constance Zimmer as Dana Gordon; and Nora Dunn as Dr. Marcus. Emily Ratajkowski appears as herself. Rounding out the cast are Alan Dale, who appeared in the series, rapper Scott Mescudi, and Rhonda Rousey.

Opening across the Philippines on June 10, 2015, “Entourage” is distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

NaFlora empowering women with Tatlong Yugto, Tatlong Babae play

After watching the play and listened to Dr. Escobar, I learned a lot about myself. I guess I was too old to be informed about these things, but I liked how it turned out. Women are the stronger sex and to that I agree.

NaFlora feminine hygiene wash partners with Think+Talk Creative Communications presented the monologues Tatlong Yugto, Tatlong Babae, penned by Gawad Palanca and Gawad Tanglaw Awardee Liza Magtoto and directed by Roobak Valle  last March 24 at Teatrino, Greenhills.

The play started off with Marigold who dreams of joining a triathlon, she is in between her ambition to become a triathlete and her marriage. The play ended with her taking care of her crying child on a crib.  Some of my friends could easily identify with her character. Marigold was beautifully acted by Ruth Alferez alternating with Wenah Nagales.

The second monologue was with teenager Jasmine who was trapped in a bathroom and face her own angst. Jasmine was played by Karen Jaysette Bingco. The message was intended for every teenage girls to take care of themselves and think twice before going out with anyone in particular.

The third monologue was what I liked best. Maybe because I have to face my menopausal period years from now. It was entertaining yet informative as well. Petunia, the cougar talks about her dance instructor,  "amoy alimuom", wet up, dry down,   and her new prospect of finding happiness. Petunia was played by Joy Viado who admitted she fits the role to a "T". She is 50 years old as of this writing and into menopausal period.

Right after the play, Obstetrician-Gynecologist, Dr. Ma. Lourdes Escobar, answered queries on sex and health and various plights of women in contemporary times. I learned from Dr. Escobar that a woman should received 45 minutes of foreplay to be sexually aroused, men should take down notes from this OB Gyne.  That a vagina has a muscle of its own, and it stiffened with time without sex. Surprisingly, the vagina contains millions of beneficial lactobacilli, which are needed to protect against infection. Using harsh soaps, douches and perfumes on the vaginal tissue can destroy these bacteria  causing the risk of infection. Thus, one should change sanitary napkins every 2 hours and  panty liners 4x a day.

NaFlora Feminine wash is the only available wash in the market that has 3 variants which are age and Ph specific.

NaFlora Protect, is recommended for every day use and best during monthly period. Formulated to help maintain and protect the natural flora. It has lactic acid and tea tree extract that help prevent vaginal irritations. It has a pH level of 3.5 to 4.5.

NaFlora restore  is for post partum care & as an adjunct therapy to vaginal infection . Specially formulated to help bring back a natural acidic environment and help relieve irritation usually experienced during vaginal infections.

 NaFlora moisture  is the only feminine wash specially formulated for mature women. It has lactic acid, chamomile extract and additional moisturizers that help soothe and protect the feminine area against dryness and irritation. It has a pH level of 6.o to 7.5

The Tatlong Yugto, Tatlong Babae performance is running in different areas of Metro Manila for FREE. Check out www.facebook.com/naFloraPH for schedule.

Electrolux helps prepare healthy food for kids

Healthy Happy Kids with Electrolux


Kids are the pickiest eaters. It takes a lot to convince them to try new dishes especially those with fruits and vegetables. That is why parents come up with creative ways to encourage their kids to eat more greens and lessen the chips and chocolates.

Good nutrition and healthy eating habits are best started at a young age. And an effective way to teach these to them is by involving them in the kitchen. Introducing new flavors to your kids will encourage them to try new dishes and widen their food palate. Letting them experiment with different ingredients will challenge their creativity and tickle their curiosity and interest.

So whether you are raising a culinary prodigy or simply encouraging your kids to eat healthy, teaching them these simple dishes will surely make them appreciate nutritious food even more.

1. Pizza
Pizza is a simple yet classic child-pleaser. It’s also the perfect dish to help you get some veggies in to their meals. Include vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, onions and arugula as toppings apart from the usual peperoni, ham and cheese. Let them have fun in the kitchen by encouraging them to personalize their own pizza.

Electrolux Multi-function Oven

The Electrolux Inspiro built-in oven will give you the perfectly cooked pizza. Its UltraFan® feature allows hot air to circulate evenly throughout the oven for an evenly cooked dish on every shelf. It’s also designed with a cool-touch door that is safe to hold even during baking.

2. Sandwiches
Building sandwiches is a great way to introduce new flavors and textures to your kids. A piece of lettuce will add crunch to your sandwich while a strip of roast beef will give you a savory taste. Allow your kids to combine flavors and textures in their sandwiches. Give them a variety of ingredients to help them make their most creative sandwich.

Electrolux Pop-up Toaster

Let your kids choose even the type of bread they want to use. The Electrolux pop-up toaster comes with an integrated bun warmer. Your kids can now choose between a crunchy slice of bread or a warm bun for their sandwich. It’s also designed with a cool-touch housing that prevents the body of the appliance from heating up while toasting your breads.

3. Soup



Teach the kids how to prepare a hearty bowl of chicken macaroni soup with the Electrolux portable induction cooker. It comes with nine power levels to help you boil or simmer your soup quickly and easily without the use of an open flame.

4. Cookies

Reward your kids for a job well-done with a freshly baked batch of cookies. But instead of using chocolate chips, introduce new ingredients and use raisins and oatmeal to add a different taste and texture to this famous treat. Baking is not only a fun bonding activity. It will also teach kids the importance of precision and following exact instructions.

Electrolux stand mixer

Mix everything together evenly and easily with the Electrolux stand mixer. It’s built with a powerful motor that can easily do the mixing for you with just a press of a button.

Everyone can contribute to shaping healthy and well-rounded kids. Design students from all over the Philippines are invited to join the Electrolux Design Lab competition. Under the theme Healthy Happy Kids, Design Lab is looking for creative and sustainable designs that will help children of today live in an environment that fosters healthy well-being.



This year, Electrolux doubled the cash prize to €10,000 or nearly Php 540,000 and a six-month paid internship at an Electrolux global design center abroad. Submission of entries is from March 4 to April 8, 2015. For more information, visit electroluxdesignlab.com. Help spread the word and call for entries for a healthier generation of children all over the world.

Sapporo's RAMEN SORA Opens its second branch in Cebu

The Ramen Sora,  (Japan's best tasting noodle) , that we used to love in Waterfront Subic has its second branch opening on March 26, 2015 at AS Fortuna in Cebu. Cebuanos should rejoice because the best tasting legit ramen has come to conquer their tastebuds.

Ramen Sora (Sora meaning “sky”) is from Sapporo in Hokkaido, the go-to district for those who want to indulge in the best of Japanese food.

Chef Yoshi Ishise the man behind the restaurant’s best-tasting ramen explains: “Ramen is one of Japan’s staple dishes just like rice to Filipinos. We could not live without ramen. At Ramen Sora we put our heart and soul into preparing dishes because we want to make our customers happy. Isn’t happiness life’s ultimate goal?”

Chefs Yoshi, Ishise, Tomio Hakada and Nori Suzuki, have partnered with Gerry’s Grill founder Gerry Apolinario for Ramen Sora. Its first branch in the Philippines opened in Subic last December.

Born in Hokkaido in 2003, Ramen Sora Subic is only the second branch overseas after Las Vegas, Nevada USA; which hogged a 5-star rating at travel website tripadvisory.com

Taking no shortcuts, Ramen Sora uses traditional methods of preparing ramen. Its Miso base goes with only the best and the freshest ingredients. “We offer everything authentic!” adds Chef Yoshi, who is also a sushi chef and the owner-operator of Sushi Twister in Las Vegas.

Chef Yoshi along with his team of Filipino chefs and partners from Prime Pacific Grill, Inc. (PPGI), operator of Gerry’s guarantee that they will ‘transport’ Pinoys to Sapporo to enjoy the best ramen they will ever taste from Ramen Sora!

Meantime, Ramen Sora’s fitting companion Yakitori Binchotan which will soon open beside Ramen Sora enjoins guests to taste their scrumptious servings of Yakitori.

Yakitori Binchotan’s recipes were passed on to Chef Nori by his grandfather who used to prepare them for his family during special occasions.

Chef Nori opened Yakitori Binchotan in Hokkaido, where he grew up, serving dishes using his grandfather’s secret sauce, and grilled using Binchotan, a special kind of charcoal found only in Japan that brings out the taste of the skewered delight, usually chicken.

“Binchotan packs so much heat and does not emit smoke, which allows the full flavor of the food to come out. The high heat from Binchotan helps to properly sear the meat keeping it juicy on the inside,” says Apolinario.

Yakitori isn’t as simple as putting meat or vegetable on a stick and grilling them. “There is so much discipline required in preparing this dish. The smell, the aroma of skewered dishes, and ultimately the taste makes all the difference,” adds Chef Nori.

Soon to open its maiden branch along AS Fortuna in Cebu Yakitori Binchotan is set to bring life to diners’ tables with original dishes enjoyed in Hokkaido, the heart of Japan’s culinary center.

Gerry’s other brother brands are Gerry’s Grill Plus, Kusina ng Gerry's and Thai restaurant Sweet Chili. Gerry’s has recently celebrated its 18th anniversary and is soon to open in more locations this year including Aseana in Paranaque and Megamall in Pasig City.

Saturday Night Fever, the Musical set to kick off its Asian tour on July 3 to 26!

Back in the 70s when the pop group Bee Gees dominated the Billboard Hot 100 with their hit songs "How Deep is your Love, More Than A Woman, You Should Be Dancing, from the movie "Saturday Night Fever".  Theirs became a national anthem for every filipino during that time as well as fashion from the disco scene evolved like the famous bell bottom pants.  Every one wants to be Tony Manero or John Travolta, everyone were doing the groove of the 70s.

Its #tbt once again as Atlantis Theatrical Entertainment Group (“Ghost The Musical,” “Shrek The Musical”) and its casting agency based in New York, Tara Rubin Casting (“Les Miserables,” “Miss Saigon”), announced last March 19,  that Brandon Rubendall, original cast member of U2’s Bono and The Edge’s “Spider-man: Turn Off The Dark” on Broadway and recurring principal dancer for pop superstars Madonna, Beyonce, and Jennifer Lopez, will step into the dancing shoes of the ‘70s disco icon Tony Manero in the newly reconceptualized production of West End and Broadway hit musical SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER (SNF), which is set to kick off its Asian Tour—its first in eight years—at The Theatre, Solaire Resort and Casino (ASEANA Avenue, Paranaque City), from July 3 to 26, 2015.

Playing opposite Rubendall is Jenna Rubaii, Green Day’s “American Idiot” (U.S. and International Tour) alum, who will breathe life into the role of Stephanie Mangano, a young office worker-turned-dance partner of Brooklyn’s local discotheque habitué Tony.

“Coincidentally, on the same week I was auditioning for the role of Tony, ‘Saturday Night Fever,’ the film, was playing on TV,” recalled Rubendall.  “After I watched it, I couldn’t believe I had never seen the movie until then and how much I related to the role of [the emotionally immature] Tony [played by John Travolta].

“I felt like I was basically watching myself in the movie.  Because of how much I’ve connected to the role, I was so calm and confident in the auditions, which is probably why I ended up getting it…and the fact that I love disco music!”

Such instant connection can also be viewed as seemingly cultural for Rubendall and the character of Tony share the same Italian-American ethnicity. “We share the same mannerisms; we speak loudly; and we laugh a lot.  So watching  Tony’s family fighting over the dinner table and then kiss and make up, I was looking at my own family!,” he added.

“That role was written for me! I have to play that role.”

Ecstatic on bagging the role of Stephanie, Rubaii, who is no stranger to disco-themed musicals having been part of Broadway Legend Tommy Tune’s new musical “Fifty Four Forever” –inspired by the infamous New York night club Studio 54—feels perfectly good in the arms of her new leading man, Rubendall, whom she shared a rarely luxurious amount of time studying scenes from the musical during the auditions’ final callback in New York.

“Our director, Bobby Garcia, spent a generous amount of time working with us on the material during the audition process, which you don’t get often. That also made me feel so comfortable in the room with my scene partner, Brandon,” Rubaii said. “We had such a good time together. It was so fun reading the scenes.  We were so willing to play the characters of Tony and Stephanie!”

She added, “Our director has been very focused on finding the truth in these characters and in the story, which is really beautiful.

“So many times you get musicals like this that are so famous for their music or film adaptations, and it just becomes a ‘fluffy,’ ‘fun’ piece. Of course, this musical will be plenty of fun, but there's also a beautiful journey that these characters take--it's a snapshot of young lives during this specific generation. I think it's important to honor that.”

Director Garcia is more than pleased. “When Brandon and Jenna walked into the audition room, I knew immediately that they were Tony and Stephanie.  They possess that complex combination of grit and vulnerability and are both terrific actors . Add to that they are excellent singers and dancers; the triple threat combination is not easy to find,” he said. “I could not be more pleased that they will be leading this brand new Asian Tour of SNF.  I can’t wait to work with them.”

SNF’s depiction of the uncompromisingly sordid 1970’s New York not only made a dance revolution at that time, but also spoke straight to a generation of lost, struggling young adults.  Gone amiss in the earlier deliberately more family-friendly film-to-stage adaptations of the famed movie musical, which propelled Travolta to superstardom and made the music of The Bee Gees instant cult classics, SNF’s gritty legacy is what Atlantis Theatrical Entertainment Group is bringing back to the stage.

For this reconceptualized production of SNF, a formidable, first-rate creative team has been assembled, which includes, besides Garcia as director, Tony Award-winning scenic designer David Gallo (“Memphis,” “The Drowsy Chaperone”), choreographer Vince Pesce (“Anything Goes,” “The Pajama Game”), lighting designer Paul Miller (“Legally Blonde,” “Hairspray”), costume designer Eric Pineda (Disney’s “The Little Mermaid,” “Tarzan”), and musical director Ceejay Javier (“Shrek The Musical,” “Addams Family).

SNF, which features popular songs from the film such as “Stayin’ Alive,” “Night Fever,” “More Than A Woman,” “Tragedy,” “Disco Inferno,” “How Deep is Your Love,” and “You Should Be Dancing,” follows the story of Tony, a young wannabe disco king who comes from a tough neighborhood in Brooklyn. Every Saturday night at a local discotheque, Tony dons his flares and struts his stuff on the dance floor—causing a stir as he wows the crowd with his extraordinarily rare dance strokes.  When Tony meets office worker-turned-dancer Stephanie, both train together for a dance competition, which will eventually change the course of their lives.

SNF, which is also set to tour Kuala Lumpur (September 1 to 15), Singapore (September 25 to October 11), and Macau (TBA), in Cooperation with the Robert Stigwood Organization.

For tickets and more information, call (632)892-7078 or like facebook.com/ATEGasia.