Essilor welcomes celebrity heartthrob Tom Rodriguez as its new Ambassador

To promote the campaign Essilor has signed celebrated actor and certified heartthrob, Tom Rodriguez. With his tantalizing brown eyes, he sure can captivate anyone.

But for Tom, his eyes are not only assets for good looks. Unknown to many, the top actor is also a prolific digital artist. As such, Tom gives due importance to eye protection as he teams up with Essilor, the world leader in corrective ophthalmic lenses to take care of their eyes against harmful blue light with Crizal Prevencia.

As the newest brand ambassador for the world’s leading ophthalmic optics company, Tom appears in the new TVC for Essilor’s most technologically advanced protective lenses yet.

Crizal Prevencia  is the only clear lens in the market to effectively filter harmful blue light from the sun and digital devices while maximizing essential blue light for healthier vision Essilor general manager Dr. Emelita Roleda says, “With Tom as our newest ambassador, we hope to raise more awareness on the harmful effects of over-exposure to blue light and promote healthy vision in the country. By aligning him with Crizal Prevencia, we hope to convince more Filipinos to use protective lenses in their daily activities.”

In the new TVC, Tom is seen going through his everyday routine. Like many of us, who are also easily exposed to harmful blue light whether we are in front of our laptops and computers doing work, commuting, or checking messages and schedules on our phones.

Tom’s ardent passion in digital art is evident in many of his lnstagram posts. Many of his artworks comprise of creatures from Philippine folklore, plus superheroes and characters from anime, games and comics. He sketches and sculpts in between takes during drama filming or photo shoots. He is also an aspiring app designer. With all these taking up his non-acting time, Tom can’t help but be exposed to harmful blue light and he admits that this has affected his vision.

“Belonging to a technically-sawy generation and with my love of creating digital art, I cannot do without my phone and digital devices. What’s more, my active lifestyle also keeps me under the sun a lot,” shares the 29-year old actor. “it’s quite alarming to know how being exposed to UV rays and blue light can cause long-term damage. With Crizal® Prevenciam, I can protect my vision, and also prevent blue light from harming my eyes.”

Crizal Prevencia uses E-SPF and Lightscan Technology which offers complete front and back protection and selective filtering of harmful blue light from devices and the sun that can cause long-term damage, such as cataracts and Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). At the same time, it lets in good light that regulates sleep and mood and boosts brain activity. It also provides complete protection from glare, scratches, smudges, dust, water, UV rays and harmful blue light.

Tom Rodriguez further encourages the public to take care of their eyes by getting a comprehensive eye exam and taking preventive measures against irreversible eye conditions. He remarks, “Exposure to harmful blue light may be inevitable, but we can minimize the risk by doing our part. By choosing Crizal Prevencia, we can protect our eyes on a daily basis and maintain a healthy vision.”

Political whodunit “Magtanggol” champions the welfare of abused OFWs

Investment banker Jojo Dispo doesn’t consider his initial foray into scripting and producing a movie a gamble. “Magtanggol,” the first offering of Felix and Bert Film Productions, is an undertaking fueled by passion and compassion.

Tom Rodriguez

Directed by Sigfreid Barros Sanchez and conceptualized by Jojo Dispo, “Magtanggol” tackles the issue of abuses committed against Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) by their employers. “I’ve traveled to a lot of places with high concentration of OFWs,” Dispo discloses. “I’ve talked to many ambassadors around the world about them, have had first hand exposure with many OFWs. I’ve heard their stories. I want to help.”

“Magtanggol” dares to ask the question “Sino ang bayani ng mga bagong bayani?”

 It zeroes in on Senator Juan Magtanggol, a member of the powerful Magtanggol political clan, who is one day thrust into the limelight for being a suspect for the spate of killings of international employers of Filipino OFWs victimized by abuse. Tom Rodriguez who plays Senator Juan

Magtanggol considers “Magtanggol,” his first venture in the political thriller genre, an eye-opener. “I didn’t realize the gravity of violence committed against our kababayans who only want to improve the plight of their respective families. Leaving your family behind to work overseas is already painful.”

Tom relishes working on this indie project. “Ibinalot ‘yung pelikula sa isang masayang panoorin na kuwento pero nakatago rin doon ‘yung larawan ng totoong sinasapit minsan ng mga kapatid nating OFWs,” shares the Kapuso leading man. “The production people and the director, grabe! Pinag-iisipan nila lahat ng shots. I’ve learned so much from all the other projects I’ve done in the past. I’m learning so much more just being here. How they compose the shots. How they color and light the scenes. There is a reason behind everything.”

Seasoned actress Dina Bonnevie who plays the second wife of the Magtanggol patriarch (played by Joonee Gamboa) says that the movie is call to action.  “It is very timely in light of the upcoming elections. If you have discontent over the way the government is running the counry, then you have to speak up.”

Playing a very challenging role is emerging young actor Ejay Falcon. “It is an honor for me na makasama sa project na ito.”

“Magtanggol” also stars Yam Concepcion, Kim Domingo, Albie Casino, and Denise Laurel.

Like everyone who experiences hardships, OFWs need all the help and assistance they can get. One way of doing that is by watching “Magtanggol” when it opens on May 18 in theaters nationwide because whatever the movie earns sue will be used to fund projects to promote the welfare of OFWs.
In our own little way, we too can become heroes.

MAGTANGGOL (2 Hours 23 Min. ) Tom Rodriguez, Ejay Falcon, Denise Laurel, Yam Concepcion, Kim Domingo, Albie Casino, Dina Bonnevie, Joonee Gamboa, William Martinez, Ricky Davao, Giselle Sanchez, Epy Quizon, Mavi Lozano

TAGLINE:
Ano ba ang meron sa apelyido ng isang tao at kinakailangan mong pangalagaan at ingatan ito? Ano bang meron sa pangalang ipinamana sa iyo at kailangan mong iwasan na mabahiran ito ng kahit na ano? Minsan tuloy, iniisip ko, ang apelyido ba ay isang regalo o isa bang sumpa ito?"

SYNOPSIS:

For decades, the Magtanggol family have been a name to reckoned with in Philippine politics. Since Spanish period, their name have been very synonymous to the words “revolutionary”, “heroes”, “nationalistic”and “fighter of rights”. They keep this reputation intact althroughout history, leaving it unblemished and free from any controversy. But when the young politician of the family, SENATOR JUANCHO MAGTANGGOL (a popular Senator being groomed for presidency in the coming elections) was thrust into the limelight for being a suspect at the spate of killings of international employers of Filipino OFWs who were victimized by abuse, the family, headed by its patriarch ex-Senator JUAN MAGTANGGOL, SR., is shaken to its core as media tries to scrutinize every inch and detail of the family’s secrets. As time runs out on them and the Magtanggol family reputation on line, they need to act fast or lose everything that their family has long worked for for years. They are up against a topnotch lawyer/congresswoman, ATTY. SUSAN DEL ROSARIO, who heads the inquiry on the issue and who was once the object of affection of both JUANCHO and ANTON when they were younger. Will the lawyer prove the family’s guilt or will love go in the way of seeking justice? In a society where there is no sure protection for our Overseas Filipino Workers, will justice be forever blinded, deafened, and crippled?

 JUANCH MAGTANGGOL
The once happy-go-lucky eldest son of ex-Senator Juan Magtanggol who was thrust into the limelight to follow his father’s footsteps after an accident almost cost the life of his brother who was being groomed to be the next politician. Champion of OFW rights. More likely to solve issues the legal way than in a revolutionary fashion. He is now the complete opposite of the man he used to be in his younger years. A married man who still carried a flame for the one who got away. The most likely-presidential candidate of the opposition in the coming elections. Is thrust into controversy after a spate of killings that involved employers of abused OFWS he is fighting for. Portrays himself as a champion of the masses but is really having a hard time trying to be one.

ANTON MAGTANGGOL
The younger Magtanggol sibling who is wheelchair-bound and has somewhat of a disfigured face after an accident that almost cost him his life. Has a patch on one of his eyes after he lost it in the accident and has a hard time talking and expressing himself. Was once a law student before the accident and a known student activist. Has a penchant for being a wide-reader and has a long collection of books and magazines inside his room. Always goes along to his brother’s travels as his brother feels he is indebted to Anton after the accident.

PHILPOP LAUNCHES STAR-STUDDED 2014 ALBUM

A stellar cast of interpreters have taken part in the much awaitedPhilpop 2014 album, produced by Universal Records.

As the premier songwriting competition in the country, Philpop has been regarded as the breeding ground and ultimate recognitionfor brilliant, excellently madesongs.  With top quality singers breathing life to the finalists’ entries, thisyear’s campaignpromises to be even more exciting.
Last year’s competition saw 12 diverse and exceptional compositions from both the amateur and professional ranks, featuring different genres and styles.  These top 12 songs have accumulated around 43 million hits on YouTube.  A few months ago, the winning song, “Dati”, written by Thyro Alfaro and YumiLacsamana, performed by Sam Concepcion, Tippy dos Santos and Quest, has trumped 25 million hits – a testament to its overwhelming achievement.  This year, they are looking forward to new milestones in their campaign to elevate Filipino music, even on a global platform.



Since revealing the top 12 compositions during the OPM Summit last March, this year’s songwriters have been hard at work to produce their songs with Philpop and its partner Universal Records.  And now the Philpop 2014 album has been released and will first be exclusively available on SPINNR the country’s leading music portal.

SPINNR is the Philippines' FIRST music streaming service that serves up the total music experience.  Powered by Smart Music, it offers unlimited music streaming for as low as P49 a month, or P2.50 per day without additional data charges. Available to all Smart, Talk ‘N Text and Sun Cellular subscribers nationwide, SPINNR can be accessed via the Web through spinnr.ph, and through mobile apps for Android and iOS devices.

Listeners are in for a musical treat with an amazing lineup of songs, created by remarkable songwriters, interpreted by superb artists.

NGSB (No Girlfriend Since Break)
by Davey Langit, interpreted by LUIGI D’AVOLA
This 18 year old half-Italian, half-Filipino singer has an exciting career ahead of him, as a singer-songwriter, and now even a VJ.  His voice, musical style, vibrant personality, humility and charm are what makes fans go crazy over him.

The Only One 
by Venelyn San Pedro THOR
Thor has made his mark in the industry as a unique artist, singer, songwriter and vocal coach and was one of the semi-finalists of “The Voice of the Philippines.” He gives an R&B power vocal rendition of the song “The Only One” and draws the listener with his full, supple voice.

Awit Mo'yNandito Pa
by Ronaldo Sorioso,  Aldrich and James
Aldrich LoydTalonding is the 14-year-old YouTube sensation from General Santos City whose powerful and passionate voice has taken him from their B’laan tribal community, to the Ellen DeGeneres show.   His rendition of "Dance with my Father", with his cousin James Bucong on the guitar, was what launched their career which has now taken their music abroad.

Torpe
by Daryl Ong, Kris Lawrence
Interpreting a song for Philpop is one of the many great milestones in Kris Lawrence’s career which started off when he won the “Star in a Million” years ago.  The singer, songwriter, musician, producer and now theater actor is a regular fixture on GMA’s Sunday All Stars where he continues to make his mark, amongst the best singers in the country.

Babalikan Mo RinAko
by Soc Villanueva Nikki Gil
Nikki Gil has a stellar career as a singer, actress, host, model and a VJ.  She once again over achieves with her marvelous and moving rendition of a song that is all about empowerment.

Song On A Broken String
by Jude Gitamondoc and Therese Marie Villarante Nicole Asensio
The former vocalist of the all-female rock band General Luna is making strides as a solo artist taking ondifferent genres such as rock,classical, lounge and even broadway.  She was once with Repertory Philippines and also played the role of “Mimi” in the hit musical “Rent”.

Salbabida
by Jungee Marcelo Kyla
Kyla has a long list of achievements, and even the distinction of having the most wins for a female artist at the Awit Awards. She has also been honored by the Philippines Society of Composers, Singers and Publishers for her contributions to music as one of the first pioneers of R&B music in the Philippines, hence the title "The Philippines' R&B and Soul Princess”.

Dear Heart
by  Mike Villegas Kiana Valenciano
The only daughter of Gary and AngeliValenciano is going down her own path as a singer, dancer, actress, host, and commercial model.  She lends her beautiful voice and youthful vibrance to a song that will make her grand debut in the scene a hit.

Hangout Lang
by Allan Feliciano and Isaac Joseph Garcia Duncan Ramos and Young JV
The former South Border frontman Duncan Ramos has been established as one of the country’s most notable R&B singers.  Young JV is a rapper, singer, dancer, host, and producer and actor.  The two collaborate for one of the more upbeat entries for Philpop this year and bring in the funky feel that makes the song fun and unique.

Qrush On You
by QYork’s James Palma aka FlavaMatikz and Cedric Bonjoc aka Knowa Lazarus Elmo Magalona and JayR
From Best Teen Performer, to top youth Icon of the year, to Male Teen star of the year, Elmo Magalona has achieved much as a very versatile artist – on screen and in the music industry.  He partners with the Philippines’ King of R&B JayR who has platinum records under his belt and also a stellar acting and modeling career
.
Kung Akin Ang Langit
by Cecilia Bocobo and Isaac Joseph Garcia Clara Benin and McoyFundales
For this special song, a very unique duet was put together.  Clara, the daughter of former Side A member Joey Benin, is gifted with such mesmerizing, wistful vocals.  McoyFundaleshasone of the more familiar voices with the song “PinoyAko” by his former band Orange and Lemons still echoing in the hearts of Filipinos everywhere.  Put them together and they create a beautiful tandem for a song with such a wonderful message.

Langit Umaawit
by Ronaldo Sorioso, Tom Rodriguez
Many know him for his lead role in a controversial television drama on GMA, “My Husband’s Lover,” and his other stints on reality TV shows, telenovelas and even the silver screen.  But Tom Rodriguez can trace his roots in musical theater as well, having played the title role in the Asian premiere of Disney's Aladdin.


One of the top 12 contenders will emerge as the 1-million peso grand prize winner which will be determined on July 26 at the Meralco Theater.  The foundation’s Executive Director Maestro Ryan Cayabyab, Board of Directors Noel Cabangon and Ogie Alcasid are all praises for this year’s crop of finalists and are elated to share thesePhilpop hits with the world.

“This year's finalists constitute a heady brew of the most varied of genres: dance, rock, R&B, a couple of ballades, some pop and a genre-defying song in multi meter. I am also happy and excited to hear established singers shoulder to shoulder with new, up and coming performers. Only time will tell which songs will generate the most audience interest. Listen to the top 12 finalist of thePhilpop 2014 and be the judge,” shared the foundation’s executive director Maestro Ryan Cayabyab.

Philpop is presented by Smart and SPINNR, co-presented by PLDT Home Telpad, and sponsored by Maynilad, Meralco and Sun Cellular. Philpop is supported by the First Pacific Leadership Academy, Metro Pacific Investments, MNTC Philex, and TV5.  Special thanks to Sony,Business World, Radio Republic, Rx93.1, Yahoo, and Myx.