The Horrific Consequences of Devil's Due

After Zach and Sam’s emotional wedding ceremony, they take off for a honeymoon in the stunning coastlines of Dominican Republic. From the stunning sceneries, their honeymoon suddenly takes a bizarre turn after an encounter with a psychic who warns them that “he has been waiting.”

Much to their surprise, after a night of copious quantities of alcohol, the newlyweds wake up with nary a memory of their honeymoon’s first night.

Upon returning home, Sam (played by Allison Miller) finds out that she is pregnant. Despite the surprising news, Zach (played by Zach Gilford) announces to family and friends that they are expecting their first child…unknown to all, it will be a nightmare that they have to endure since it will be the “Devil’s Due.”

“Devil’s Due” is directed by a quartet of young filmmakers known as Radio Silence who rose to fame via their films posted on YouTube. The film takes us to a series of head-spinning moments that Zach and Sam goes through dealing with an unexpected pregnancy. Soon, however, disturbing clues emerge that their situation is anything but normal: an ultrasound exam and amniocentesis take a troubling turn; on a grocery shopping expedition, Sam, a vegetarian, crams raw, bloody meat into her mouth; in a shopping mall parking lot, she cracks the rear window of a car with a strength and ferocity that doesn’t seem possible for a woman several months pregnant; and her belly seems to stretch and contort, as if the baby is pushing from the inside with extreme force.

Then, there’s a cabal of shadowy figures who begin spying on the couple from hidden cameras – as a malevolent spirit waits to be born unto the world. A film about a woman impregnated with…something powerful and evil, and dealing with the horrific consequences, has obvious narrative and thematic similarities to the classic horror film Rosemary’s Baby, directed by Roman Polanski. Bettinelli-Olpin and Gillett, two of the directors of “Devil’s Due,”, note that they don’t shy away from comparisons to the 1967 film. “Rosemary’s Baby comes up a lot when people see the trailer for DEVIL’S DUE, and it’s not something were afraid of,” says the latter. “We’re all huge fans of that film. We knew when we read [Lindsay Devlin’s] script that there was an opportunity to borrow from it in a smart way, but more importantly, tell a more contemporary and accessible story.”

“Devil’s Due” was filmed on location in the Dominican Republic, at Carnivale and various other sites, including a nightclub in a ruined catacomb, where Zach and Sam spend the fateful final night of their honeymoon. The production then moved to New Orleans, where most of principal photography took place.

Radio Silence embraced the typical scheduling constrains that befall some genre fare shot with “guerilla-style” filmmaking. “We felt like we had an abundance of time and money, just based on the films we’ve made in the past,” says Gillett. “The biggest challenge was getting people on board for how we wanted to make the movie. That becomes as much a part of the creative process as actually filming DEVIL’S DUE. For example, we didn’t need four hours to shoot a given scene because we didn’t shoot coverage conventionally. We don’t need to light things in a typical way because we’re trying to create realism. We wanted to get everyone on board with the experiment of jumping in and lighting to shoot 360-degrees and really let the actors discover the scene.

“Devil’s Due” opens March 19 in theaters from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.

Digital Quiz Show Declares Champs for SY 2013-2014

Digital quiz show declares champs for SY 2013-2014

Manila, Philippines – Samantha Amante from Colegio San Agustin in Biñan, Laguna won in the high school division while Jo Dee Salise from Rainbow of Angels Learning Center Inc. in Butuan City won in the grade school division of Pasiklaban sa Paaralan National Finals for school year 2013-2014. Taking first runner-up and second runner-up spots in the high school division are Ramon Galvan III from Huang Siong College of Iloilo and Star Lim from Misamis Union High School respectively. Grade school first runner-up is Daemian Johan Cesa from St. Joseph College-Olongapo Inc., and second runner-up is Vien Vincent Viloria from Centro de Cultura, Inc. in Cauayan City, Isabela.

The Pasiklaban sa Paaralan National finals was held last March 15 at The Mind Museum, Bonifacio Art Foundation Inc., Global City, Taguig. With Quizmaster Drew Arellano, the one-day showdown brought together some of the brightest students from all over the country to test their knowledge in Science, Math,
Languages, Literature, and General Information.

Since it began in 2009, Pasiklaban has brought its unique and exciting style of fun learning to more than 200 locations as far as Laoag City in the north and General Santos in the south, and to more than 2000 schools. To date, roughly around 5000 students have participated in Pasiklaban. While proud to be the only high-tech travelling quiz show in the country, Pasiklaban never stops to look for ways to improve the experience of its participants and spectators through better technology, format and program.



Pasiklaban sa Paaralan is organized by Diwa Learning Systems Inc, the country’s leading source of print and digital educational resources. Diwa has established its name in the publishing world as an unstoppable force in providing Philippine schools with innovative ways to access 21st century education and K to 12-ready tools. Pasiklaban is one of the ways Diwa lives up to that monumental reputation.

To learn more about Diwa and its products and services, log on to www.diwa.ph.

Diwa Asia Corporate Family
To keep itself responsive to the needs of its growing number of clients and to address better changing realities, Diwa has three divisions focused on the various aspects of its publishing operations - Diwa Learning System Inc (DLSI), Diwa DistriNet Inc (DDN), and University Press of First Asia (UPFA). Each division takes advantage of each other's unique strengths to maintain and to continuously improve the quality of its products and services in the industry. The fourth entity, Bato Balani Foundation (BBFI), carries out the group’s social development programs.

Each of these companies exercises and aims for a different discipline - product leadership, operational excellence and customer intimacy. DLSI, the corporate progenitor, is its heart and soul. UPFA, its brain. DDN, the arms and legs. And BBFI, its conscience.




Diwa Learning Systems Inc

Founded in 1983, DLSI is the eldest in Diwa Asia's family of companies. It is the distribution and marketing company of Diwa’s educational resources for students, teachers, and schools.
With its thrust of continuously innovating and introducing new technology in education, Diwa now has magazines, textbooks and e-learning resources for practically all the subject areas - Science, Mathematics, English, Social Studies, Technology and Home Economics, PE, Health and Music, Christian Living and Computer Education. It also distributes various library reference materials and glossy magazines for the school and the home.
The pioneer of the Diwa companies, DLSI also houses the executive body of the entire organization. Under this corporate division are the different administrative Departments of entire organization: corporate and marketing communication, warehouse and distribution, Human Resource Management and Development (HRMD), Finance, Information and Communications Technology (ICT), Marketing and Product Management, Office of the President and Office Services (OS).

Asting-O-Sol and the Cool as Ice Confidence

Make or Break: How to turn mouth turn-offs into Ice Cool moments of Confidence.

What turns you on a person? Aside of course for having those physical attributes, wits and education. What if he/she has a poor oral hygiene, that would most likely turns you away.  Brushing your teeth three times a day is not enough nowadays,  with the variety of food that we are eating and everyday stress that we encounter, we need a mouthwash to have the proper oral health.

Did you know that 89% of adults aged 18 – 45 years old suffer from a variety of mouth issues ? That would mean millions of Filipinos are constantly struggling to ensure that they have proper oral health. These issues would range from mouth sores, gingivitis, plaque build-up, all the way to bad breath. Among these mouth issues that Filipino’s face, it is actually bad breath, which is of most concern to majority of the population, out ranking even cavities and gingivitis .

Though bad breath may sound trivial at the onset, one must ask why a lot of Filipino’s are concerned with bad breath? In a qualitative study done by Astring-O-sol, it was noted that good oral hygiene and fresh breath were highly associated with key needs such as confidence and preparedness, both of which were believed to eventually lead to things such as success, financial stability, physical desirability, respect and even a healthy love life . No wonder having fresh breath is a key concern of most; because having fresh breath can help people become more confident and in turn enable them to have more success in the different facets of their lives.

DJ Gino Quillamor, Jessy Mendiola, Randy Silva, Senior Product Manager, and Jeoffrey Yulo, General Manager of GSK Philippines Consumer Healthcare Business

No one knows this better than Jessy Mendiola who even sites herself as an example: “Before I used Astring-O-sol, I would really catch myself being conscious about my breath. Especially in my line of work where interaction is key, I really needed a partner to ensure that I was confident enough to deliver my lines and my scenes.” She goes on to mention that in order to succeed in showbiz, confidence is key and fresh breath is extremely important. Jessy’s sentiments seem to be supported by facts, as 49% of those without bad breath feel more confident, 37% are ready and prepared to socialize and 54% of users feel protected issue 

Jessy together with Astring-O-sol, leads the road to ice cool fresh breath that transforms you into your most confident self with the brand’s latest online video at http://bit.ly/astringosolcoolasice 

Jessy says that “we all need icy fresh breath to be our confidence ally and Astring-

-O-sol is my partner in facing my everyday challenges with confidence. I truly believe that everybody has the power to impress others and blow people away.  It’s just all about staying positive, being confident, believing in oneself and of course, having good oral hygiene with the help of Astring-O-sol.”   Astring-O-sol has a unique Tri-Defense formula that helps strengthens the teeth, protects the gums and, cleans the tongue.

So, the next time you feel you need that extra boost of confidence, remember that having fresh breath is a good start. And for fresh breath, use Astring-O-sol. 

Alicia Keys New Song "Its On Again" on "Amazing Spider-Man 2 "

“AMAZING SPIDER-MAN 2” TO INCLUDE ALICIA KEYS' NEW SONG “IT'S ON AGAIN”

  Sony Pictures Entertainment announced today that the highly anticipated motion picture “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” will feature “It’s On Again” by Alicia Keys featuring Kendrick Lamar, written exclusively for the film by Pharrell Williams, Alicia Keys, Hans Zimmer, and Kendrick Lamar produced by Pharrell Williams.

The song will also be included on The Amazing Spider-Man 2 Original Motion Picture Soundtrack, the musical companion to the film, which arrives in the U.S. on Tuesday, April 22, and will be released by Columbia Records and Madison Gate Records. “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” will be released in Philippine theaters on April 30, 2014, and in the U.S. on May 2, 2014.

Commenting on the announcement, Marc Webb, the film’s director, said, “We were looking for just the right song to close out the film – a song that would be upbeat and exciting, but also contain a note of foreboding. Alicia’s song, ‘It’s On Again,’ is the perfect end note. For the overall score, I’m so amazed by what Hans Zimmer and the Magnificent Six were able to achieve with the music in the film. Every director wants his movie to have a unique sound, but this is beyond unique. It’s completely unlike any movie score that’s come before.

Keys added, “I'm very excited to be a part of such a powerful collaboration with Kendrick Lamar, Pharrell Williams and Hans Zimmer. This is the next chapter in the Spider-Man legacy and we really feel ‘It’s On Again’ captures the experience, the story—and most importantly—the meaning behind the film, which is that we all have the potential to be extraordinary. There’s a little bit of a Super Hero in all of us.”

Zimmer said, “When we came together to form a band to create the music of this film, we did the opposite of what composers usually do – we wrote songs, and from the songs came the themes. We embraced a rock-and-roll ethos on this movie, and it paid off.”

Williams said, “Hans has created an iconic score theme and it was exciting to collaborate with him again on this song. When I was making the song, I knew Alicia and Kendrick had to be on it. They take the song to a whole new level."

The film’s epic score was composed by Oscar- and Grammy-winning composer Hans Zimmer and The Magnificent Six, which features Pharrell Williams, Johnny Marr (of The Smiths, Modest Mouse), Michael Einziger (of Incubus), Junkie XL, Andrew Kawczynski, and Steve Mazzaro. The soundtrack also features new songs exclusive to the film performed by Pharrell Williams, The Neighbourhood, LIZ, and Alvin Risk. In addition, Phosphorescent’s “Song for Zula” is also featured on the soundtrack.

About “The Amazing Spider-Man 2”:
We’ve always known that Spider-Man’s most important conflict has been within himself: the struggle between the ordinary obligations of Peter Parker and the extraordinary responsibilities of Spider-Man. But in “The Amazing Spider-Man 2,” Peter Parker finds that his greatest battle is about to begin.

It’s great to be Spider-Man (Andrew Garfield). For Peter Parker, there’s no feeling quite like swinging between skyscrapers, embracing being the hero, and spending time with Gwen (Emma Stone). But being Spider-Man comes at a price: only Spider-Man can protect his fellow New Yorkers from the formidable villains that threaten the city. With the emergence of Electro (Jamie Foxx), Peter must confront a foe far more powerful than he. And as his old friend, Harry Osborn (Dane DeHaan), returns, Peter comes to realize that all of his enemies have one thing in common: Oscorp.

Directed by Marc Webb. Produced by Avi Arad and Matt Tolmach. Screenplay by Alex Kurtzman & Roberto Orci & Jeff Pinkner. Screen Story by Alex Kurtzman & Roberto Orci & Jeff Pinkner and James Vanderbilt. Based on the Marvel comic book by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko.

Book at Agoda.com Hotels in Davao and Shop Till You Drop for the Big Davao Fun Sale

Agoda.com Hotels for the Big Davao Fun Sale 2014


Calling out all shopaholics in the country! The first ever city-wide sale in the Philippines will launch next month in the biggest city from March 14 to April 16.
The Big Davao Fun Sale will take place for 4 long weeks where the city will be offering up to 80 percent discount on fantastic deals. Participating establishments include Robinsons Cybergate Davao, Abreeza-Ayala Mall, Gaisano Grand Mall, Gaisano Mall of Davao, NCCC Mall, SM City Davao and SM Lanang Premier.

Throughout the month, there will be specific themes per week for the shopping frenzy community: From March 14 to 16 will be general sale; March 16 to 23 will be Health & Beauty; March 24 to 30 will be electronics and gadgets; March 31 to April 6 will be Home & Travel; April 7 to 16 will be Active Lifestyle/Fashion; and March 14 to April 16 will be Dining, Fruits & Flowers

Agoda.com has prepared a list of recommended hotels for you to make sure that you get enough rest as you shop till you drop!

1. Seda Abreeza Davao (4.5*)

http://www.agoda.com/seda-abreeza-davao/hotel/davao-ph.html

This hotel can make any guest feel right at home because of their quality accommodation and great service. Advantage of this location is that it’s close to the Abreeza Mall to accommodate your shopping needs right away.


2. Home Crest Residences(3*)

http://www.agoda.com/home-crest-residences/hotel/davao-ph.html

Home Crest Residences has always been a very common choice for travelers. The establishment is known for their excellent service, superior facilities and the ambiance of their guestrooms. The hotel is also just a stone’s throw away from SM City Davao.


3. The Apo View Hotel (4*)

http://www.agoda.com/the-apo-view-hotel/hotel/davao-ph.html

The Apo View Hotel is one of the most popular establishments in Davao because of the following; their central location, 24 hour casino and the second oldest hotel after Manila Hotel . They take pride in their spacious clean rooms and their well-appointed facilities like the pool, gym and restaurants.


4. Park Inn by Radisson Davao (4*)

http://www.agoda.com/park-inn-by-radisson-davao/hotel/davao-ph.html

Park Inn by Radisson Davao is situated in the Davao City Center which is close malls like SM Lanang Premier and also the Davao Medical Center. The hotel lives up to the expectations of their guests because of their beautiful appointed guest rooms, complete list of recreational activities and their over the top service.


5. Banana Beach Resort (4*)

http://www.agoda.com/banana-beach-resort/hotel/tagum-ph.html

For those who want to experience a different side of Davao, Banana Beach Resort is the place for you. Just an hour and a half from Davao City, the establishment is situated in Tagum and is accessible to Tagum City Freedom Park and NCC Mall of Tagum, who is also participating in the Big Davao Sale. They are known as the world’s only beach inside a banana plantation. They offer impeccable service, casitas that is perfect for relaxation and top-class facilities.


Travelers can expect good deals ranging from 5% to 60% discount on the following hotels below by connecting to Agoda.com and through the Agoda Mobile App (available on Apple and Android) on the duration of the Big Davao

Fun Sale:
1. Hof Gorei Beach Resort, Samal Island
2. Banana Beach Resort, Tagum
3. Marco Polo Davao Hotel
4. Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao
5. Seda Abreeza Davao
6. Park Inn by Radisson
7. Tune Hotel Davao
8. The Royal Mandaya
9. Hotel Vicente
10. Hotel Tropika
11. Pinnacle Hotel and Suites
12. Home Crest Residences
13. Casa Leticia Business Inn
14. Greenheights Hotel and Convention Center
15. Big Apple Hotel & Bar
16. Piazza Luna Tower
17. White Mansion
18. ALU Hotel
19. Linmarr Apartelles and Suites
20. Courtview Inn
21. Humberto’s Hotel
22. Bagobo House Hotel
23. Hotel Galleria
24. The Apo View
25. Green Windows Dormitel
26. The Ritz Hotel at Garden Oases
27. Ecoland Suites
28. GK Business Hotel
29. Casa Ruby Bed & Breakfast
30. The Metropolis Suites Davao
31. The Royale House Travel Inn & Suites

Check out more hotels all over the Philippines and learn about special deals & promotions by connecting to www.agoda.com. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Google+, Instagram, or Pinterest.

About Agoda Company Pte Ltd:
Agoda Company Pte Ltd (Agoda.com) is a leading Asia-based, online hotel reservations company, which specializes in securing the lowest discount hotel prices. Agoda.com is part of the Priceline Group (Nasdaq:PCLN). Agoda.com’s network includes more than 360,000 hotels worldwide. The multinational staff of more than 1,400 professionals, located throughout the world, provides a first-rate reservation service that uniquely combines local knowledge and local connections to provide the best hotel deals to both business and leisure travelers.
In addition, Agoda.com customers can earn loyalty rewards, which can be used on future bookings. A member of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), Agoda.com’s aim is to promote travel by making it more affordable and more accessible to more people. AGODA® is a registered trademark of AGIP LLC, used under license by Agoda Company Pte. Ltd.

Herve Leger Now Hugging the Manila Fashion Scene

MANILA BOUTIQUE OF HERVÉ LÉGER LAUNCHES IN ASIA

When you say Herve Leger all you could think of is that one tiny  bandage dress that is beautifully hugging and contouring someones body. Herve Leger make a statement with bandage dress originally called "bender" because of its form-fitting fashion.

Max Azria acquired the Hervé Léger fashion house in 1998.  In early 2007, Azria relaunched the Hervé Léger label with his own designs, which were quickly embraced by celebrities and trendsetters worldwide.

Herve Leger bandage dress comes in colors and styles that you could choose from. From a little black dress to a tight fitting gown to a one piece swimwear. Make heads turn, get ready to flaunt your figure,  Herve Leger is now opening its first store in Asia, the style capital Manila.

Originally founded in 1985, Hervé Léger was acquired by the BCBGMAXAZRIA GROUP where Designer, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Max Azria brought new life to the label with his own fabulous creations, quickly embraced by today’s most renowned style-setters, inclu

ding Rihanna, Taylor Swift, Diane Kruger, Miranda Kerr and Jennifer Lopez.

Today, the exclusive and ultra chic fashion house responsible for pioneering the iconic “bandage dress,” comes to Manila fashion scene.

Flanked by equally high-end and luxurious brands, Hervé Léger opens at the upscale East Wing of Shangri-La Plaza.  Capturing the allure of the modern, powerful woman with its exclusive couture and dynamic ready-to-wear collections, the Hervé Léger look is designed with the infamous, body contouring dress in mind, seamlessly sculpting the female silhouette with signature banding construction.  Paying tribute to empowered femininity while maintaining the house’s heritage, it makes an unforgettable statement of glamour.

Will It Be Team Phil or Team James? Watch Out for The Clear Dream Match!

The Final Battle for Clear Supremacy
Clear Dream Match III slated on June 7

 Aside from basketball, football has gaining followers all over the Philippines,  with the sporting sibling rivalry Phil and James Younghusband topping the Philippine football scene, they are slated to do their best on June 7 for the Clear Dream Match III at a venue to be announced soon. Help settle the rivalry by casting your vote.Take your pick now.

Taking on the challenge of growing football in the Philippines, Clear, the No. 1 Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Men, partnered with Manchester United and the United Football League. Given the partnerships, Clear Brand Manager Drew Copuyoc said, “Clear Dream Match 3 will be the most competitive game yet, as only the best football players in the Philippines will get to participate. Returning with its strongest lineup of players, this year’s voting pool will consist only of the top 50 players (statistically) in the UFL.”

In the first ever Clear Dream Match, Phil Younghusband won over his older brother with a dominant 5-1 victory. The following year, James Younghusband exacted his revenge, defeating Team Phil 4 - 1.

With the brothers now tied at 1 - 1, the game is further intensified with the addition of two Manchester United Legends, Paul Scholes and Andy Cole who are experienced in settling highly contested rivalries in English football history.

Manchester United Legends

Andrew “Andy” Cole has won numerous trophies with Manchester United and is the second highest goal scorer in Premier league history. Cole is one of the few players to date who has bagged all possible honors in the English game, including the PFA Young Player of the Year and the UEFA Champions League title.

Cited as one of the best midfielders of his generation, Paul Scholes has made over 700 appearances for Manchester United and has the third-highest number of appearances by any player for the club. Scholes played a key part in the club's Treble-winning success in the 1998–99 season, and has won 11 Premier League, three FA Cup and two UEFA Champions League winners medals.

Join the Battle for Clear Supremacy

Fans can go to www.cleardreammatch.com.ph to help decide which of the top 50 players of the UFL will join the Clear Dream Match on June 7. Voting will start on March 10 and end on May 6.

The top 32 players will be drafted by James and Phil for their respective teams on May 10. The players will hit the pitch for the much awaited Clear Dream Match finale on June 7.

Up to six football amateurs can play in the Clear Dream Match 3 by joining the nationwide tryouts handled by the UFL at Cebu, Iloilo, Davao and Metro Manila.

Aside from voting the UFL all-stars, fans can also earn points by showing their support online. The fan with the most points will win a trip to Manchester, and get the chance to watch a Manchester United game live.

Tuloy Foundation

Tuloy Sa Don Bosco Foundation, the sole beneficiary of the Clear Dream Match, has received continuous support from Clear Philippines. A donated percentage of ticket sales from the match, together with Unilever Personal Care products will be given to the children of the foundation. As an added treat, top players of the UFL will also visit the foundation to play football with the children.

Be part of the Clear Dream Match and pick a side. Will you pick Team James, or will you pick Team Phil? What team will Paul Scholes and Andy Cole play for? And which team will finally prevail in the battle for clear supremacy? All will be settled on June 7, go to www.cleardreammatch.com.ph to help settle the rivalry once and for all.

Doctors No Longer Ask For Apology from BIR Chief

I am sharing this post for my doctor friends from CGHMC and from other hospitals as well, I hope that this will enlighten everyone with regards to the BIR advertisement  that came out a week ago.

Here is an update sourced from ABS-CBN News

Doctors will no longer demand apology from BIR chief over adBy Niko Baua, ABS-CBN News
Posted at 03/11/2014 8:27 PM | Updated as of 03/11/2014 8:27 PM

The Philippine Medical Association (PMA) will no longer ask for a public apology from Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Kim Henares over an advertisement that depicts doctors as tax evaders.

According to PMA vice president Dr. Irineo Bernardo, after a meeting over the weekend, the Board of Governors has decided that they would rather move forward with the BIR and ask for assistance in paying the right taxes.

Doctors earlier expressed dismay over the advertisement, which they called a "shame campaign" of the BIR against professionals.

The controversial ad shows a doctor perched on the shoulders of a grade school teacher, with a caption saying: "When you don't pay your taxes, you're a burden to those who do. Do your share. knowyourtaxes.ph.

The BIR, for its part, had said the advertisement does not single out doctors and is aimed at anyone who is not paying the correct taxes.

If you have anything to share. Please feel free to speak your mind.

The Search is Over for the Best Wagyu Burger Ever at Village Tavern

The melt-in-your-mouth goodness Wagyu beef is now made available in a burger patties, with all the trimmings that you want in a burger. You will easily differentiate the taste between a plain burger patty and one with Wagyu beef in it, because it is  tender, the more you chew, the more the flavor comes in every bite, because of its juiciness and buttery taste, not to mention that it is famous around the world because of it marbling characteristics. This is the first time I had a bite of Wagyu burger, believe me, I savor each bite, its distinctive taste is worth marveling about. Village Tavern has put their signature with this delectable creations in Wagyu burger. For all the Wagyu lovers, this one deserve a try.

THE WAIT IS OVER FOR THE BEST WAGYU BURGER

(VILLAGE TAVERN NOW SERVES 4 KINDS OF WAGYU BURGERS)

You haven’t gone to burger heaven if you have not tried Village Tavern’s new to-die-for Wagyu burgers, four kinds of gourmet burgers that are making headlines in food circles with their succulent patties made of the fabled Japanese beef and layered with some of the most exquisite toppings one can think of. 

Created by award-winning Bistro Corporate Chef Josh Boutwood who’s known for pushing the envelope with his original culinary creations, these premium burgers are nothing like anyone has tasted before: each ingredient coming together to create a surge of sensations and textures the moment it hits your mouth. 

Sandwiched inside a homemade pretzel bun is the star of the burger – a juicy, char-grilled beef patty made ofWagyu beef. Wagyu, which means Japanese cattle, is a kind of cattle farmed in Japan and fed a special diet so that itsmeat produces divine flecks of fat that give it that melt-in-your-mouth consistency. According to Chef Josh, the quality of real Wagyu beef is  excellent that it even surpasses the USDA marbling standards for prime-grade beef.

“We are all very excited here at Village Tavern as we launch our Wagyu beef burgers because I am sure our guests will love the immense marbling and the delightful beef flavor in each bite,” Chef Josh said.

To further level up the whole Wagyu experience, Chef Josh created four kinds of burgers using different toppings, giving customers unique set of flavors with every burger. 

Waiting to be relished is the Foie Gras Burgerwhich is a beautiful layer of Wagyu beef patty, grilled cheese, onions and yes, luxurious pan seared foiegraswhich gives the burger a subtle degree of richness without overwhelming the palate. 

Foie Gras Burgerwhich

Who knew that tequila can create magicin burgers? Well, Chef Boutwoodknew exactly and proves it with his Tequila Burger. Oozing with zest, this burger is made with premium grade Wagyu beef splashed with tequila (for that extra kick!),then ladled with fresh cilantro mayo, habanero-infused cheddar cheese and topped with slices of jalapenos for a mind-blowing explosion of flavors.

Tequila Burger

Memories of homemade cooking are the inspiration behind the Reuben Burger. Deceivingly simple, this meat monster combines the goodness of corned beef brisket, pickled cabbage and fried egg atop the Wagyu burger patty. 

Reuben Burger

Rounding out Village Tavern’s Wagyu Burgers offering is the Truffle Burger; a true gourmet treat that features a tier of divine flavors from the Wagyu and truffles. Truffle-infused mayo is generously spread on the homemade pretzel bun, then topped with grilled Wagyu patty, velvety asiago cheese and finished of with sautéed shitake mushrooms. 

Truffle Burger

“Our burgers are exceptionally savory and unparalleled in marbling, richness and taste our customers won’t be disappointed,” Chef Josh enthused.

Chef Boutwood’sWagyu Burgers share stellar billing with Village Tavern’s classic American cuisine inspired by the tradition of the Old World tavern.The restaurant is known for its signature dishes such as flatbreads, steaks, burgers, ribs, pizzas and crab cakes. Also worth another visit are the new additions to the menu like the Crispy Clams Dipped with Spicy Lemon Dip, Homemade Jalapeno Poppers, Spicy Garlic Chicken Wings and Shrimp Balls with Cilantro Lime, Roasted Bone Marrow. Luscious desserts – think of Black Velvet Cake, Warm Butter Cake and Red Velvet Cake – enjoy a huge following as well. 

Check out villagetavernph(Facebook) and  @villagetavernph(Instagram and Twitter). Village Tavern is located at Bonifacio High Street Central, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

Women: Act Those Dreams and Be Able to Inspire Others For the Better

SM Supermalls Honors 100 Women of Power and Substance This March

 It is Women's empowerment month and SM Supermalls is celebrating it with us. In lieu with this, they came up with a Project Headshot  Clinic,  and the Dream Project Philippines are launching a campaign and digital exhibit called Inspire.

Inspire brings together 100 of the country’s most inspiring women from all fields and industries, such as Jessica Cox, Irma Adlawan, Andi Manzano, Cheska Garcia-Kramer, Kai Magsanoc, Margie Moran, Nene Chan, Angel Guerrero, Kara Alikpala, Wilma Galvante, Patricia Bermudez-Hizon, Ingrid Santamaria, Sarah Gaugler, and Merlee Jayme. (Photos can be found here)

The diversity of the women chosen shows that regardless of background, beliefs, and preferences, empowered women who dream and act on those dreams are able to inspire and change their communities for the better.

Inspire is showcasing stories of women empowering others. To get a chance to be one of the 100 women featured in Inspire, applicants must answer the question, “How are you using your power as a woman to inspire change and enable dreams of your own and of others?” Their answers should be posted in any of the  following  social  media  accounts,  Facebook,  Twitter  or  Instagram,  starting  with  the  hashtag
#SMProjectInspire.

Applicants must also register via Headshot Clinic's official website, www.headshotclinic.com, for their entries to be counted. Entries must be received by March 17, 2014.

Inspire is a joint effort of SM Supermalls, Project Headshot Clinic, and the Dream Project Philippines. It is one of the highlights of SM Supermalls’ national celebration of Women’s Month. To know the full schedule of events for March, please visit www.facebook.com/smsupermalls.

Project Headshot Clinic is digital platform that merges profile photos with campaigns and advocacies. The Dream Project Philippines is a volunteer-based community initiative that helps build the nation by shaping the dreams of the Filipino youth.

For more information about Inspire, go to  www.headshotclinic.com,  www.smsupermalls.com or in the
SM Supermalls’ official Facebook page.

Veteran Journalist Writes About the Controversial BIR Ad

For the past few days, there has been a lot of buzz concerning an ad from the BIR which appeared in the newspapers. The ad shows a "Doctor" riding on top of the shoulders of  a teacher with notes showing that the teacher is actually paying bigger taxes despite earning less. 

But should the doctors be offended by the ad? Here is a very informative article written by Solita Monsod in her Phil. Daily Inquirer column.

Get Real
Why take offense?By Solita Collas-Monsod
Philippine Daily Inquirer
12:28 am | Saturday, March 8th, 2014

It is not as if this is the first time we are told that a great number of professionals (e.g., lawyers, accountants, doctors), and the rest of their self-employed, “own-account” brethren, don’t seem to be paying their fair share of taxes. One certainly remembers that P-Noy made a point of it in his State of the Nation Address. It’s been written about at any time these past 20 years, including by yours truly, who also brought it out in any number of speeches in front of professional organizations.

So why has such offense been taken? What’s with the onion-skinned reaction on the part of the Philippine Medical Association? Are the accountants and the lawyers (the lawyers have not as yet been featured, and if the ad campaign of the Bureau of Internal Revenue and Department of Finance does not include them soon, there will be hell to pay) going to say that they, too, are being unfairly treated?

Only consider: Of the 1.7 million professionals registered with the Professional Regulation Commission, less than a quarter—about 400,000—are registered taxpayers. That leaves 1.3 million who are not paying taxes.  Surely it is not a leap of logic to conclude that these will include doctors, lawyers, and accountants, among others?

Then there are the studies of the DOF showing that (and I brought this out 12 years ago, courtesy of Nene Guevara) that for every P10 collected from a fixed-income earner, P1 is collected from a professional. That’s how bad it is. Surely doctors, lawyers, and accountants are also involved here.

In other words, there is enough empirical evidence to justify the ad campaign. There is nothing in the ad campaign that says, or even implies, that all doctors are tax cheats. The ad shows one doctor whose income is more than P1 million paying P7.4 thousand in income taxes, riding on the back of a teacher whose income is P852 thousand paying P221 thousand in income taxes. Then there is a message: “When you don’t pay your taxes, you’re a burden to those who do.” That is all.

From there, the PMA has proclaimed that the thrust of the ad is that the entire medical profession is a burden to the Filipino people. Excuse me? What I understood from the ad was that if a doctor earning P1 million pays only P7,000 in taxes, the doctor has to be a tax cheat. That doesn’t mean all doctors are tax cheats. But it does mean that other doctors who pay similar amounts on their income are tax cheats. That is incontrovertible. Why should anyone take offense at that conclusion?

The same thing can be said of the accountants (it was amusing that the PMA’s Dr. Leo Olarte seemed to hold the accountants to blame for any misdeclaration the doctors made). In the ad, the accountant earning P540 thousand paid P2.5 thousand in taxes, while the chef who earned P513 thousand paid P101 thousand in taxes. Notice that the ratio of tax collections from fixed-income earners (the chef, the teacher) to those of professionals is more than P10 to P1—it’s more like P30 or P50 to P1.

So let’s not make any more out of the ad than what it says: for taxpayers to pay the proper taxes. That the message was eye-catching is a plus. Come April 15, let’s do what is right for the country. Kim Henares should be cheered, not jeered. She’s a hard worker, and she needs all the help she can get.

A look at where the Philippines stands with respect to tax efforts and tax collection compared to 110 developing and developed countries tells us what kind of problems we face (Le, Moreno-Dodson, Byraktar, Tax Capacity and Tax Effort: Extended Cross-Country Analysis from 1994 to 2009).

The tax revenue to GDP ratios of high-income countries in 2009 was 29.3 percent; of middle-income countries (the Philippines is one), 19.3 percent; and of low-income countries, 13.6 percent.

If we group the countries by regions, the tax revenues as percentage of GDP in 2009 for East Asia and the Pacific (EAP, which includes the Philippines) was 14.8 percent.
How does the Philippines compare with these averages (19.30 percent for middle income, 14.80 percent for EAP)? Our average for the period 1994-2009 was 14.34 percent, or below both averages. Worse, in 2013, per Sonny Coloma, this ratio was only 13.6 percent. Nota bene: A 1-percent shortfall from the average is equivalent to roughly P100 billion.

But the study goes further. It ranks countries according to “Tax Effort Index”—the ratio of actual tax collections to predicted tax collections (based on their model which includes the effects not only of income but also of demography, trade openness, agriculture value added and governance quality). The Philippines ranks 64th with a tax effort index of 0.91, which means it is not collecting what it should be collecting. Highest tax effort index is 1.66, lowest is 0.16.
It also classifies the Philippines as a low-collection, low-effort country. A country is regarded as low-collection if its tax collection is lower than 18.31 percent of GDP and regarded as low-effort if its tax effort index is less than 1.

The study, though, offers some consolation to Kim Henares, as well as those who feel she is picking on them: It has found that in recent years, countries with better institutional quality (such as bureaucracy and less corruption) can collect higher taxes. In other words, the quality of governance has to be improved for higher tax revenues.

So what do you think? Hit the comments section and speak your mind!