Neurobion Raises Awareness on Neuropathy

Louie Roxas GM for Consumer Health Merck, Debbie Go Head of Commercial Mktg Merck, Loy Dy-Buncio Brand Mgr of Neurobion, Art Dapasen Sales Manager and Dr. Gio Baranga, Medical Director Merck 2.

The symptoms of Neuropathy include pangangawit, pamamanhid and tusok-tusok in the hands, arms and legs. The discomfort is often felt in the morning, making it hard to get out of bed. If you have felt one of these symptoms, then you must be afflicted of Neuropathy which was sometimes misdiagnosed. You can take multivitamins to prevent the  above discomfort but the best vitamins to target the nerves to take the pain away and most prescribed vitamins by doctors for years now is Neurobion, I can attest to this having worked in  hospital wards.

Neurobion is a Vitamin B-Complex with Vitamins B1, B6 and B12 that helps maintain healthy nerves, promote efficient nerve function, and reduce pain in the arms and hands caused by Neuropathy.

sexbomb dancers

 The dance generation of the 90s, UMD, Manoeuvres and Sexbomb reunited on March 31, 2014 for neuropathy campaign. They danced, gyrated, played games and proven that neuropathy is not a hindrance to what they do best, when Neurobion is around.

With each tablet, it is clinically proven that Neurobion balanced formulation of nerve nourishing vitamins acts at the root of these problems.

Who would forget Wowie Cruz and James Salas of Universal Motion Dancers.

Oh well the most loved Manoeuvres led by Joshua Zamora and Jon Supan.

Sexbomb Dancers dancing to their famous Sexbomb led by Jopay Paguia.

With the incidence of Neuropathy increasing among Filipinos, the Neuropathy Awareness Movement, spearheaded by Neurobion®, aims to raise awareness on the symptoms and effects of nerve damage. Pangangawit, pamamanhid and tusok-tusok may make it difficult to move, but now you can take action. With clinically proven Neurobion®, you can help prevent these symptoms so you can move freely, perform at your best, and feel the joy of living again.

Protect your Lives with Pureit Excella

Whenever I visit my parent’s house, the first thing that always catches my eye is their humongous and primitive looking water purifier with a bunch of stones the size of my fist that are supposed to filter water. ,

It’s actually the second water purifier they bought upon the “suggestion” of my father’s physician, saying you can never be too sure about the quality of the water being sold at those water purifying stations.

It also scared me a bit because when I saw it a couple of months back, it actually looks like there’s already a pond (complete with living organisms) inside as some of the grey stones already turned brown, which is perhaps an indication that it’s time to replace them after giving them clean water for the past five years.

Now they have no choice but to buy from those stations as getting a new purifier can be quite expensive and they couldn’t find an authorized service center to get replacement parts.

Since then I’ve been on the lookout for a new water purifier that can easily be maintained by my senior-aged parents and doesn’t look as intimidating as their older ones.

Fortunately, I got invited to the launch of Unilever’s Pureit Excella, a safe and easier way to purify water, without the menacing look of older purifier models.

Unilever’s Pureit is actually is the largest selling brand of in-home water purifiers in the world, and after years of just reading about it, the brand is finally available in the Philippines!

Safe drinking water: a global concern

Despite the advancements in technology, it’s a sad fact that in developing countries, over 884 million people, including 16 million Filipinos, have no access to clean and safe drinking water, what’s even scarier is that around 80 percent of diseases are water borne.

In 2010, the United Nations declared that “access to safe and clean drinking water and sanitation is a human right essential to the full enjoyment of life” and one of the Millennium Development Goals is to halve, by 2015, the proportion of population without sustainable access to safe drinking water—but that is much easier said than done.

Accepting that global challenge, Unilever’s technical experts across global research centers in the United Kingdom and India worked with technology partners, government bodies, and scientific and public health institutions to develop Pureit - an effective and affordable solution that provides access to safe, clean drinking water.

Today, Pureit helps protect more than 45 million lives, and is the world’s largest selling in-home water purifier brand, creating a global footprint across 13 countries including India, Brazil, Mexico, China, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri-Lanka, Nigeria and Kenya.

In the Philippines, the Department of Health revealed that waterborne diseases remain a severe public health concern with about 4,200 deaths and 770,000 cases of illness each year from water borne diseases since only one in every five households in 24 provinces gets water from unsafe and questionable sources.

This explains why most Filipino households, including my family, do not trust tap water for drinking, forcing us to rely on those expensive drinking water from water refilling stations, which we don’t even know where they are getting as well. Roughly 20% of urban households boil water taken from the tap, which is however an even more expensive and riskier practice.

“Central to Unilever’s mission to make sustainable living common place all over the world, we are launching Pureit to provide Filipino families with access to guaranteed clean and safe drinking water, as certified by both international and local health institutions like the Department of Health and the Philippine Public Health Association,” said Brian Duruin, Pureit brand manager.

How does Pureit work?

Pureit Excella converts potentially dangerous tap water into drinking water—that includes rain water, water from deep wells as well as tap water--by purifying water twice, giving users complete germ protection.

The first level of purification consists of three simple yet valuable layers of protection where water initially passes through the Germkill Processor that disinfects the water of almost all bacteria, viruses and germs. Next, it passes through the Advanced Microfiber Mesh that filters out precipitates such as visible and invisible dust and dirt particles, as well as metallic impurities. Lastly, the Carbon Polisher removes pesticides, chlorine, and odor from the water, before it goes to the second level of purification.

The second level purification is performed by the Micro-charged Membrane, which further purifies the water by removing any remaining parasites or bacteria—assuring families of protection against diseases. The end product is clear, fresh, and natural-tasting water that’s free from harmful agents.

As a tabletop device, using Pureit Excella also eliminates the hassle of buying expensive water from water refilling stations and the associated risk of contamination through unclean containers or storage rooms.

But perhaps the most impressive part of Excella is that it is actually the only non-electric water purifier that meets the microbiological safety norms criteria of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the regulatory body with the most stringent standards for safe drinking water all over the world.

Oh and did I mention that it only costs less than the price of other bulkier water purifiers out there? Purchasing a Germkill Kit (which is only the part you need to replace) costs just P1,000 and is already good for P1,500 liters of water.

I’ve been using a Pureit Excella for a few weeks and I could say I’ve never appreciated the simplicity of just pouring tap water into my Excella, instead of having to call the nearest refilling station, waiting for half an hour, and lifting that heavy 5 gallon container just to enjoy a glass of water.

Just a quick note though, don’t be alarmed by the faint plastic-like or chlorine-like smell of the water the first few times you use it as the scent goes away after a few water cycles. Just do the initial water cycle five times before using the Excella.

The Unilever PureIt Excella costs P5,000 and now available at Abenson. For more information about Unilever PureIt, log on to http://www.pureitwater.com/PH/.

Sprinto your Summer Accessory

Sprinto’s Countdown to Summer

With summer fast approaching, people all over the country are gearing up for the hottest season in style and sport.

Fashion barometers and gurus have already given their cues; iridescence, mesh and the terms “power pretty” and “fashion is my art” are at the forefront of summer 2014’s trends.

Fashion forward or not, summer is the perfect way for people to change their wardrobe.  While entire wardrobe changes can be costly per season, accessories provide a great way to add a little bit of summer to your attire.

Summer also beckons the sweaty athlete in everyone, making it the perfect season for sport and fashion to merge.

That’s why this summer, Sprinto is claiming the season as the accessory to grab with their newest brand ambassadors’ world class athlete Phil Younghusband and America’s Top Model Allison Harvard, being respective symbols of impeccable fashion  and stylish athleticism.

Both were present at the Sprinto’s Countdown to Summer at SM North The Block where Sprinto held a meet and greet for both young celebs.

Other activities of Sprinto’s Countdown to Summer included the launch of the Sprinto kiosk at SM North, the launch of the Sprinto “Color Clash” summer campaign and a “swap your sunnies” area where mall goers could exchange any pair of shades they owned for a pair of Sprintos for free.

Sprinto also showed off some of their latest collections for summer, including the York, Maine and Oga.

Aside from those, Sprinto’s styles are wide ranging, catering to different tastes and personalities. Named after cities, some of the most popular styles include the Hawaii, Perth, Prague, Venice, Manila and the pure wood Wayfarer, Foshan.

Phil Younghusband said of the brand, “It’s great to be part of the Sprinto family.  Their styles definitely stand out and I can’t wait to try all their styles”

While Allison Harvard, arguably one of the most successful models to come from “America’s Next Top Model” shared “My eyes are a little sensitive to the sun which is why I love and adore eyewear so much. Becoming an Ambassador for Sprinto is the perfect partnership for me.”

Pawlo Misolas, Marketing Director for Sprinto shared about the brand, “We’re so excited to be bringing in Phil and Allison into the Sprinto family.  Their dedication to their respective fields and their common passion for style are what made them perfect for the brand.”

Sprinto’s styles are wide ranging, catering to different tastes and personalities.  Named after cities, some of the most popular styles include the Hanoi, Nagoya, Tokyo, Osaka and Manila.  The designs are literally world class, inspired by different fashion cultures across the globe.

All of Sprinto’s shades come with high quality Polycarbonate frames and contain iDefine Polarized lenses (anti-glare) which cut glare and haze allowing for greater comfort and visibility.



About Sprinto

What started as a watch brand in Hong Kong has since established itself as an expert in creating fashionable quality eye wears since launching in Manila in 2002


Sprinto offers not only top of the line quality, but beauty and practical functionality as well. Sprinto believes in bringing utmost comfort and safety to all its customers, sparing nothing less than the best colors, design and quality, while still making it unbelievably affordable.

Presently, Sprinto eye wears are available in major fashion hubs such as Manila, Dubai, Singapore and Hong Kong.

Optica International Trading Corporation profile

For over 33 years, Optica International Trading Corporation has been a leader in the low-range and mid-range sunglasses industry. Countless years have been spent to deliver only the finest sunglasses in the market.

It all comes down to what our company stands for – intelligence, awareness and style. Intelligence in the way we build our sunglasses; with only the finest, durable frame material and highest quality lenses. Awareness in the way we run our company and being socially responsible with our non-profit projects. And for style, we like to let our products speak for itself.


Resources:
www.sprintoworld.com                        
www.facebook.com/sprintoworld

"Blended" Rolls Out Wacky Teaser Posters

“BLENDED” ROLLS OUT WACKY TEASER POSTERS

The teaser posters for Warner Bros. Pictures' new romantic comedy “Blended” starring Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore are now out. The humor-filled one-sheets individually feature Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore in acts of wackiness. His has the tagline “Single Dad, No Clue” while hers “Single Mom, Flying Solo.”

“Blended” marks the third comedy collaboration between Sandler and Barrymore, following their successful onscreen pairings in the hit romantic comedies “50 First Dates” and “The Wedding Singer.”
In the film, after a disastrous blind date, single parents Lauren (Barrymore) and Jim (Sandler) agree on only one thing: they never want to see each other again. But when they each sign up separately for a fabulous family vacation with their kids, they are all stuck sharing a suite at a luxurious African safari resort for a week.

“Blended” also stars Joel McHale (NBC’s “Community”) as Lauren’s ex-husband, Mark, and Wendi McLendon-Covey (“Bridesmaids”) as her best friend, Jen; Kevin Nealon (“Weeds”) and Jessica Lowe (funnyordie’s “RobotDown”) as an overly romantic couple also vacationing at the resort; and Terry Crews (“The Expendables 2”) as the resort’s singing host.

Opening across the Philippines on June 11, 2014, “Blended” is a Warner Bros. Pictures presentation of a Gulfstream Pictures/Happy Madison Production and will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment company.

Frozen, Best Animated Movie of 2013 Now Out in Blu-ray and DVD

Rekindle the moment, the singing, snowing and all of  those "feel good" scene with the characters of Frozen. Who would ever forget the "Do You Wanna Build a Snowman?" . This is by far the best loved animated movie of all time bagging The Best Animated Feature  and Best Original Song (Let It Go)  from the Academy.


Now Available to Own on Blu-ray & DVD

Featuring a Blizzard of Fun-Filled Bonus Features, Including Deleted Scenes, Making-of Featurettes,  “Let It Go” Music Videos, Theatrical Short “Get a Horse!” and Much More!

Today, Walt Disney Studios invites families everywhere in the Philippines to bring home the magic of the Academy Award-winning animated musical hit “Frozen” in Blu-ray, DVD and VCD.  Summer is about to get cooler with the home video now available in retail outlets nationwide through Magnavision Inc.

Winner of the 2013 Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song (“Let It Go”), this wondrous tale of a young girl trying to save a kingdom trapped in eternal winter arrives just in time for spring and features even more adventure, more extras, and more Olaf!

After casting a $1-billion-dollar spell at the global box office, this heartwarming fantasy adventure enchants viewers like never before on Blu-ray, featuring crystal clear high definition picture and sound, plus a blizzard of fun-filled bonus features, including the behind-the-scenes documentaries “The Making Of Frozen,” and “D’frosted: Disney’s Journey From Hans Christian Andersen to Frozen.” Additional bonus features include 4 Deleted Scenes with introductions by directors Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee, the Academy Award nominated theatrical short “Get A Horse!” “Let It Go” music videos by Demi Lovato, Martina Stoessel & Marsha Milan Londoh, “Frozen” Teaser Trailer, and much more! Directed by Chris Buck (“Surf’s Up,” “Tarzan”) and Jennifer Lee (screenwriter, “Wreck-it Ralph”), produced by Peter Del Vecho (“The Princess and the Frog,” “Winnie the Pooh”), and written by Jennifer Lee, “Frozen” is the seventh Disney-released film to reach $1 billion—and the first for Walt Disney Animation Studios. It features original songs by the Academy Award winning duo Kristen Anderson-Lopez (“In Transit,” “Winnie the Pooh”) and Robert Lopez  (Tony® Award winner, “The Book of Mormon,” “Avenue Q”).

In “Frozen,” fearless optimist Anna sets off on an epic journey — teaming up with rugged mountain man Kristoff and his loyal reindeer Sven — to find her sister Elsa, whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter. Encountering Everest-like conditions, mystical trolls and a hilarious snowman named Olaf, Anna and Kristoff battle the elements in a race to save the kingdom.

“Frozen” features the heartwarming voice talents of Kristen Bell (“Forgetting Sarah Marshall,” “Hit & Run,” Showtime’s “House of Lies,” Broadway’s “The Crucible”) as Anna; Idina Menzel (Broadway’s “Wicked” and “Rent,” “Enchanted”) as Elsa; Jonathan Groff (2013 Sundance Film Festival’s “C.O.G,”  “Taking Woodstock,” Fox's “Glee,” Broadway’s “Spring Awakening”) as mountain man Kristoff; Josh Gad (“The Internship,” “Love & Other Drugs,” Broadway’s “The Book of Mormon”) as the lovable snowman Olaf; Santino Fontana (Broadway’s “Cinderella,” “Brighton Beach Memoirs,” “Billy Elliot”) as Hans; Alan Tudyk (King Candy in “Wreck-It Ralph,” “42”) as the Duke of Weselton; Ciarán Hinds (“Game of Thrones”) as Pabbie & Chris Williams (“Bolt”) as Oaken


About The Walt Disney Studios:
For 90 years, The Walt Disney Studios has been the foundation on which The Walt Disney Company was built. Today, the Studio brings quality movies, music and stage plays to consumers throughout the world. Feature films are released under the following banners: Disney, including Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios; Disneynature; Marvel Studios; Disney|Lucasfilm; and Touchstone Pictures, the banner under which live-action films from DreamWorks Studios are distributed. The Disney Music Group encompasses the Walt Disney Records and Hollywood Records labels, as well as Disney Music Publishing. The Disney Theatrical Group produces and licenses live events, including Disney on Broadway, Disney On Ice and Disney Live!

My Outdoor Backpack: Built to Last a Lifetime

I've always considered myself a "backpacker" kind of person-- always ready and on the go.

Even during my highschool and college days, while most of my girl friends have moved into shoulder bags handbags and more kikay bags, I still preferred a backpack. Its handy, roomy and made me feel secure, knowing I have everything I need in a trusty bag.

Unfortunately, I had to retire my backpack when I started working at a hospital. At that time thieves were targeting those with backpacks as easy prey by ripping or slashing it off to steal the bag contents.

It was only a few years ago when i got myself another backpack, while preparing for my first trip after a loooong time. And as soon as the straps hugged my shoulders and back, all the fond youthful memories returned-- it felt like rekindling a long lost love.

That backpack has seen better days and has been a constant companion as I renewed my passion for adventures. Once  I went  mountain hiking and our entire group got lost for almost 6 hours and it was the snug fit of my backpack that hugged me and made me feel safe.

It went shopping with me in Hongkong, rode several Disneyland and Ocean Park  rides with me  quietly enduring the long queues, and the many bumps and falls.

It was part of the selfies i took as i hopped around those hotels in Macau and welcomed all the souvenirs i wanted to bring home.

I love my backpack simply because it is so easy to tote around and, goes well with any clothes and fashion  accesory that I have.

So Imagine, my luck when i got a new backpack-- a pink one with hearts at that when i attended the OUTDOOR PRODUCTS  Instameet last Saturday. It was held at the famous Lime 88 KantoBreakfast in Mandaluyong.

 I joined several bloggers and members of IGERS manila as we were introduced to a brand that surprisingly has been around since 1973. Ive never heard of the brand before the event but was quite impressed by the rip off challenge.

Eros Enriquez , the Asst. Marketing Manager of United Limsum International Trading Inc.showed us a bag that has survived 10 mall shows and 20 school trips with participants trying their best to rip off the bag. That is built to last, can withstand the test of time. Not to mention, that I love its eyecandy colors.

 Whether it’s a sleepover, an out of town weekend, a hiking or mountaineering adventure, or a journey thousands of miles across the sea, there is one essential piece of equipment that has become the favorite of travelers—the Backpack.

But with all of the choices and brands out there, you have to be able to choose the one that best suits even your everyday adventures.

“What is the first thing that gets ruined or damaged on your Backpack?”  Eros Enriquez, Asst. Marketing Manager of United Limsum International Trading, Inc asked bloggers and members of IGERSManila at the first Outdoor INSTAmeet event held Saturday at Lime 88, Mandaluyong City.

“Zippers.”

“How many times do you open your bag in a day? For those passing by malls or riding the MRT/LRT, that could mean a lot of opening and closing every single day. Outdoor Products only use genuine YKK (Yoshida Kōgyō Kabushiki Kaisha) Zippers one of the most trusted and durable zippers used by manufacturers in the world.

The next thing, Enriquez said, that usually gets damaged in our bags are the straps. “Outdoor Products uses Seam Locked Reinforcement--Reinforced Straps through high quality seaming for durability.”

And lastly to make sure that everything inside your bag stays safe, Outdoor Products are made using Cordura and Kodra-- materials known for their toughness.

 “Cordura and Kodra are very abrasion resistant and have a high tear strength. These are the fabrics used for army fatigues and backpacks, extreme games apparel, and heavy load works. It is also more lightweight as compared to canvas materials, and polyurethane coated Kodra and Cordura are even considered waterproof.”

To demonstrate just how tough their bags are, the brand has been holding the Outdoor Products Journey – Rip-off Challenge Road Show. And so far, after 10 SM Malls and 20 University/Colleges, no one has been successful in tearing their bag apart.

And just to show how confident its distributors are about the brand it is even offering a Lifetime Guarantee on their bags.

“We want you to get to your destination with comfort and ease, from point A to point B, get your job done in school or at work and help you create great memories in your travels with OUTDOOR PRODUCTS® bags.”

Luis Manzano: Why Suffer in Silence,When You Can Say No to Pangingilo

Sensodyne's latest endorser well known TV host Luis Manzano admits that he too suffers for "pangingilo" but when he starts using Sensodyne, it made a difference in his life and he could now eat and drink anything he wants, without suffering from dentine hypersensitivity.

Dentine hypersensitivity is the other name for sensitive teeth/pangingilo and according to a market research study, 9 out of 10 Filipinos have sensitive teeth. It’s not a disease, but rather a condition that develops over time due to common factors such as receding gums, over vigorous tooth brushing and teeth grinding.

When this becomes more than just a daily irritant, it’s time for you to switch to a toothpaste specifically formulated to effectively address your sensitive teeth problem. For this type of dilemma, Sensodyne is the most recommended brand by dentists for sensitive teeth/pangingilo.

Put a stop to this daily discomfort in our lives as GlaxoSmithKline, in collaboration with the Philippine Dental Association (PDA), is embarking on the advocacy to fight against sensitive teeth/pangingilo in the “Say No to Ngilo!” campaign. This remarkable commitment extends beyond a mere information campaign and toward proactive efforts to improve oral health care in the country, including the help of 2,000 dentists who have committed to the fight against dentine hypersensitivity through educating their patients on proper oral hygiene and using effective tools to combat pangingilo.

Sensodyne Products

“GlaxoSmithKline, through our brand, Sensodyne, has provided solutions to Filipinos for sensitive teeth. Sensodyne is the number-one sensitivity brand in the market, and most recommended brand by dentists for pangingilo. In GSK’s commitment to make every Filipino sensitivity-free, GSK launches Sensodyne sachets for only Php10 to drive accessibility and affordability for the solution to pangingilo.

“The Philippines is the first country in the world where Sensodyne is introducing the sachet format. This development is also significant because GSK is confident of the Philippines as an important emerging market, and this will definitely encourage more Filipinos to proactively manage their sensitive teeth and say no to ngilo,” says JeoffreyYulo, Consumer Healthcare General Manager, GSK Philippines.

Sensodyne has continually provided clinically proven relief from pangingilo, so more experts recommend Sensodyne. If you have pangingilo, switching to Sensodyne to replace your regular toothpaste can make a big difference not only in your enjoyment of everyday life, but also in your overall oral health.

Say No Ngilo

From its partnership with dentists, Sensodyne now extends its call against pangingilo to Filipinos nationwide. To symbolize this mission, Sensodyne presents the Commitment Circle. This circle represents the three-part alliance among the Philippine Dental Association, GlaxoSmithKline/Sensodyne, and its most important members— everyone in the country! Let’s all pledge to angilo-free life. With PDA’s support and our commitment and pledge, We Say No to Ngilo!

Sensodyne is dedicated to creating a future where every Filipino is sensitive-free. Sensodyne provides clinically proven relief and daily protection for sensitive teeth. The Sensodyne toothpaste range contain different active ingredients, which is either Potassium Nitrate for its base range that depolarizes the nerve and protects it from firing to progressively reduce the pain of sensitivity, or, for Sensodyne Rapid Relief, Strontium Acetate that helps prevent the flow of the fluid within the tubules that would otherwise cause the tooth pain. For Sensodyne Repair & Protect, it contains the advanced NovaMin breakthrough technology which is scientifically proven to help repair sensitive teeth/pangingilo by forming a tooth-like layer over exposed dentine to help continually repair and protect sensitive areas.

Whether your sensitive teeth/pangingilo is chronic and painful or just an infrequent tooth pain, Sensodyne will be able to help.

Sensodyne, from the multinational pharmaceuticals company GlaxoSmithKline, offers a range of specifically formulated toothpastes, toothbrush and floss. It works to relieve pain due to pangingilo and to provide clinically proven lasting protection all day, every day when used as directed. Sensodyne has become the favorite toothpaste for sensitive teeth/pangingilo of dentists around the world.

Sensodyne is now available in sachet nationwide for only Php10 (based on SRP). For more product information, log on http://sensodyne.com.ph/.

Goldilocks Celebrates With The Graduates

The Road to Sweet Success

Graduation is  the much anticipated celebration of the year. Goldilocks is joining you once again to celebrate it with pride and joy with the "graduates."

The academic year has come and passed, along with graduates who are moving on to the next stage in their life. These bright young students have overcome the challenges of their school years, and are ready to take on all new endeavors.

This important milestone deserves to be celebrated with family and friends. As always, Goldilocks, the country’s number one bakeshop, has the perfect cake to share during this commemoration: the Goldilocks Rocky Road Greeting Cake. Indeed, it is a fitting reminder for graduates that the road to success may be rocky at times, but altogether it is sweet and delicious.

The three-layered chocolate sponge cake is drizzled with Goldilocks’ classic vanilla butter icing, and covered in smooth velvet chocolate frosting. Fluffy marshmallows and delectable chocolate chips are found throughout, giving the cake fun and exciting texture. The Goldilocks Rocky Road Cake will surely be a welcome treat for all graduates. Visit your nearest Goldilocks branch or call Goldilocks Go-Delivery 888-1-999.

SPIDER-MAN JOINS EARTH HOUR SUPER HEROES IN GLOBAL LIGHT SWITCH-OFF

On Sunday, March 30, 2014 – WWF's Earth Hour broke all records of participation in its eighth year, as Spider-Man last night joined millions of everyday Super Heroes from across the world in the world's largest celebration for the planet.

The event that has evolved into the world’s largest movement for the planet began its journey across more than 154 countries and territories from New Zealand, now sweeping across Asia with Spider-Man and the cast from the upcoming blockbuster “The Amazing Spider-Man 2,” including Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone and Jamie Foxx, sending a message to the world that anyone can be a Super Hero for the Planet from the global flagship Earth Hour event from WWF-Singapore.

WWF's Earth Hour event in Singapore saw lights switched off across the famous Marina Bay skyline, joining the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, the Bird’s Nest in Beijing, Taipei 101, The Wat Arun Buddhist Temple in Bangkok, the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur and more that have already taken part in the global celebration for the planet.

In The Philippines, official Earth Hour representatives, celebrities and Spider-Man fans gathered at the Eastwood Mall Open Park and SM Mall of Asia’s by the Bay to lead the switch-off.

In Australia, a massive candle lit display on the lawn of Parliament House in Canberra spelt out, ‘It’s Lights Out For The Reef’ as thousands across the country witnessed a special documentary about the impact of climate change on the threatened natural wonder the Great Barrier Reef.

As the lights now switch off at India Gate, the beyond the hour focus for children will be felt with WWF-India’s year-long education campaign for a monumental 15,000 schools across India who are switching off for Earth Hour and switching on to more energy efficient practices.

Lights also went off at Swayambhunath Temple in Kathmandu where WWF-Nepal will begin targetting 500,000 people in the country to lead environmental change through a Generation Green Campaign.
Jamie Foxx who plays Electro in The Amazing Spider-Man 2, said “It’s time to conserve, protect, and enjoy this planet of ours. Never underestimate your power, never underestimate what you can do.”
This year, WWF-Nepal also has the enlisted the help of none other than Spider-Man himself to support their Earth Hour Blue crowdfunding project, ‘A Flame Called Hope’. This project supported by Andrew Garfield aims to provide clean biogas energy to villages in Nepal’s Terai Arc.

“Earth Hour is a fantastic movement that has been created about conservation of our planet, which is something that should be on the top of our list as human beings. Let’s remember that the Earth is not ours, we are of this Earth. We all have a responsibility to each other in preserving our home, so it’s amazing to be a part of Earth Hour to help send that message,” said Andrew Garfield.
Earth Hour trended worldwide, with participants sharing their event experience and commitment for the planet across social media platforms that connect the world.

At the heart of the movement’s digital growth is Indonesia, where Earth Hour has become a massive, year-round youth led movement enlisting the support of more than 1.5 million people across more than 31 cities in the country. Creating simple and creative environmental actions through film, performances, social media and public gatherings, the teams promote environmental activities related to saving electricity, reduction in use of plastic, using less paper and tissue, planting more trees and using public transportation throughout the year.
“Earth Hour is much more than an hour. Every person can do their part no matter how big or small to save the planet,” said Emma Stone.

Meanwhile, The Philippines – one of the movement’s staunchest supporters – has since 2009 topped town and city participation levels to earn the title of Earth Hour Hero Country. Last 14 March, over 40 local government officials, city planners and environmental officers attended the Liga Para sa Klima, a multi-year WWF, Smart Communications and ArthaLand initiative to help local communities deal with climate-spurred storms, floods and droughts. The participants pledged not just to switch off their lights this Earth Hour – but to strive towards energy, water and food security. Other national and local government arms, plus corporations and communities have committed to support the switch off.

This year sees Earth Hour launch a new crowd funding and crowd sourcing platform for the Planet, asking people to use their power to back a project or add their voice to solution based environmental projects across the world.

From donating to build climate smart fiberglass boats for Typhoon Haiyan affected fishermen in the Philippines, to giving Rangers in Indonesia better equipment to protect the forests and wildlife of Borneo and Sumatra and even helping fund indigenous communities in Colombia to generate sustainable means of livelihood that prevents deforestation in the Amazon – Earth Hour is calling on participants across the world to be Superheroes for the Planet by getting involved in Earth Hour Blue when the lights come back on.
Earth Hour next hit the Middle East, Africa and Europe, where the Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque) turned off its lights for the first time, joining the world’s tallest building Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the Kremlin and Red Square in Moscow, South Africa’s Table Mountain, St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican City, The Eiffel Tower in Paris, La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Buckingham Palace in London, Edinburgh Castle in Scotland before the hour of inspiration made its way across the Atlantic to South America.

There, the Christ the Redeemer (statue) in Rio de Janeiro, The Angel of Independence in Mexico City are key landmarks taking part in the continent, and The Empire State Building and Times Square in New York City, Niagara Falls, Los Angeles International Airport, the Las Vegas Strip and more joined in the world’s largest celebration for the planet from North America, before Earth Hour wrapped up on the island of Tahiti in French Polynesia.

Earth Hour in 2014 sees the completion of the shift from event to movement status across the world, with the celebration cementing its place as a platform for beyond the hour activities for amazing environmental outcomes to protect parts of the planet including the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, the Arctic in Finland and the Amazon Rain forest in Colombia.

The focus on outcomes was inspired by Earth Hour’s success in past years that led to better legislation through the Russian Parliament to protect seas from oil pollution, the creation of a 3.4 million hectare marine protected area in Argentina and the world’s first Earth Hour Forest in Uganda to fight against massive deforestation in the country. All of these outcomes were powered by the crowd, showing that change for the planet can be achieved when the individual and collective realises their power.
People are encouraged to use their power by backing a project or add their voice at www.earthhour.org and sharing their #EarthHour activities on Instagram.

From script to screen, the environmental efforts in the making of “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” have been supported at every level and made the film the most eco-friendly tentpole in the studio’s history. Sony Pictures has extended these efforts in making the production and publicity tour carbon neutral, as well as “EcoSpidey” external outreach with a sizzle reel, game and Twitter campaign. Internally, the studio co-developed a unique online experience for employees to learn about Earth Hour and take action with the partnership, which has been made available to hundreds of thousands of employees at over 14 of the world’s largest corporations, powered by Practically Green.

Paint Nite at Gerry's Union City, California

AT GERRY’S ART AND BOOZE MIX

Gerry’s Grill Union City in California, USA recently hosted Paint Nite, a new concept of blending two timeless pastimes – artistic painting and drinking cocktails.

“Paint Nite is about making art accessible to people who don't consider themselves artists or creative in any way. It is about fostering a fun, low stress, non-judgmental environment that inspires everyone to enjoy the process of creating something from nothing. Gerry’s Grill was the perfect place. We’re glad they hosted us,” says Sean McGrail, general manager of Paint Nite.

The two-hour painting parties are a two-hour event held in local bistros around the U.S. with at least 25 adult participants in attendance. Absolutely no painting experience is needed, Paint Nite take cares of all supplies - acrylic paint in primary colors and a 16”x 20” canvas.

“A master local artist will walk you through step by step during the course of the event  - though creativity and individuality are always welcome!” beams McGrail.
While the participants are busy creating their masterpiece, a waiting staff goes around to pick up empty glasses or ask for refills. Paint Nite also has its own mood music, played when the artist is not giving instructions.
“At the end of the two hour session your inner Picasso has been unleashed and you get to bring home your own masterpiece,” says McGrail.

Paint Nite hopes to embark in an international expansion in the Philippines and Singapore, adds McGrail.
Gerry’s Grill management said it is open to host their parties in both countries. Overseas, the leading grill restaurant in the Philippines has two branches in Singapore, two in the U.S. and one in Qatar.
Prime Pacific Grill Corporation (PPGC), operator of Gerry’s Grill recently announced the opening 8 more branches during the first half of 2014: Robinson’s Place in Tugegarao, Cagayan; Iligan, Ayala Terraces in Fairview, Quezon City; Meycauyan in Isabela, and Star Mall in Cebu City. Company-owned branches are Fisher Mall in Quezon City, SM Sta Mesa, Manila, and Aseana City in Paranaque.

Samsung Smart Appliances For The Modern Filipino Family

New Generation of Samsung Digital Appliances offers Solutions for Energy Efficiency and Space

Samsung Digital Appliances was launched on March 27, 2014 at Samsung Hall, SM Aura, with Samsung’s Digital Inverter Technology, that optimises power consumption, and changes the speed of the compressor to give you complete comfort.  It saves energy and money too, making it more convenient for every household to use. Not to mention its sleek and modern design making it today's generation of smart appliances. Samsung Digital Appliances are a must to every home.

L-R) Dyeun Zapanta SEPCO Digital Appliances Group Product Manager, Jun Filart  SEPCO  Digital Appliances Business Unit Director, Amby Molina Consumer Electronics Product Marketing Head, Shamcey Supsup, SEPCO  Digital Appliances Product Managers Kat Lee,  Nerish Inumerable, Marie Streegan and SEPCO Business Unit Adviser DJ Kim during the Samsung Digital Appliances Launch last March 27, 2014 in the Samsung Hall. 

Technology is ever evolving, but it has always been aimed at aiding everyday tasks. Samsung has taken on the higher pursuit of offering people a better lifestyle. Thus, armed with state-of-the-art electronics and a passion for innovation, Samsung has come up with their new lineup of digital household appliances that will ensure a happy home.

Air Conditioner With Triangle Design

Among their breakthrough inventions is their new air conditioner with triangle design. In a country that is notorious for its sweltering summers, a proper air conditioner is almost mandatory. But the difference between this new Smart Air Conditioner and an conventional air conditioner is clear. It does not just produce cool air; it has been tailored to be more efficient and cost-effective in this task. Thanks to its carefully engineered triangle design which allows for bigger fans within a more compact body. Thus, it circulates cool air faster, farther, and wider while maintaining a sleek look.
The new Smart Air Conditioner is equipped with Samsung’s Digital Inverter Technology. It can maintain the desired temperature without frequently shutting off and on, so it consumes less energy. The Digital Inverter Technology helps users to stay comfortable for long periods of time, while using the minimum amount of energy – of up to 60% less electricity than conventional air conditioners.

Designed to be outstandingly efficient, its uniquely triangular design has a wider inlet, wider outlet and a bigger fan to ensure that air is cooled and expelled faster (26%), farther (14m meters) and wider (39%) – ensuring even air distribution and powerful cooling.

Also, the new air conditioner begins cooling the air fast using its powerful Fast Cool mode, to cool down the room faster. It then automatically changes the mode to Comfort Cool to maintain the desired temperature. Users won’t feel cold and don’t have to keep manually changing the settings or turning the air conditioner on and off.

Energy efficiency is a key purchasing decision for consumers. The Samsung Air Conditioner’s Single User mode gives the flexibility to the user to control the capacity by effective use of energy. It uses less compressor capacity, reducing power consumption, while still providing a cool and comfortable environment. This ensures that users won’t have to worry about the electricity bill even if there’s only one person in the room.

The new Samsung Air Conditioner features Samsung’s exclusive Virus Doctor that keeps families safe and comfortable through innovative air purifying technology, which neutralizes harmful contaminants in the air. The Virus Doctor feature has received various accolades including a 2010 AHR Expo Innovation Award in the indoor air-quality category, a 1st Air Day Minister of the Environmental Award, and the Jang Young Sil Award. Now, mothers need not worry about air-born viruses and allergens with Samsung’s Virus Doctor technology.

Stylish and Smart, the pure Crystal Gloss™ finish and uniquely curved design of the Samsung Air Conditioner deliver a premium look. Like aerodynamic, high performance sports cars, every aspect of its streamlined body is encased in dual-injected, transparent material for an elegant finish that blends seamlessly into any modern home.

Using an application on a smartphone, the Smart Wi-Fi function lets users remotely control the functions of the Samsung Air Conditioner to schedule its operation. In any location with a wireless network, users can instantly turn it on and off and select the operating mode as well as temperature. Additionally, the air conditioner is able to communicate operational time and electricity usage as well as providing filter cleaning reminders. The unit can also store preferred operational settings and cooling preferences.

The Smart Installation is a self-diagnosis feature that ensures the air conditioner is installed perfectly by the aircon installer. It automatically checks for installation faults that might cause problems when the air conditioner starts operating.
The Smart Check automatic error-monitoring system detects and diagnoses problems and provides easy troubleshooting solutions using a smartphone application. It saves users time and prevents unnecessary costs prior to a service call.
This, alongside its efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and innovative design, makes Samsung’s new Smart Air Conditioner the perfect household appliance for any savvy family wishing to ensure the health and wellness of their children.

Food ShowCase Refrigerator

Part of their new lineup also includes the new Food Showcase Refrigerator. This innovation provides smart organization for all your different types of food. There are two layers of doors in order to properly showcase the contents of the refrigerator, making it much easier to visualize your stocks. There are the outer compartments for your most frequently used products, allowing instant access. And then there are the inner compartments for ingredients that you don’t use as often. Not only does this maximize space, this setup makes organizing and consuming food a simple process. Everyone in the family, including the children can access refrigerator contents with ease.
This refrigerator is also equipped with Samsung’s trademark Digital Inverter Technology. This means that the refrigerator utilizes the same smart technology that allows it to adjust its temperature accordingly. Thus, no unnecessary energy is consumed, making this an efficient and cost-effective appliance.

Front Load Washing Machine with Eco-Bubble Technology

Another addition to their lineup of smart appliances is the Front Load Washing Machine. Doing the laundry is an arduous and time-consuming task. There are many things to consider when it comes to washing fabric, but Samsung’s newest Front Load Washing Machine makes cleaning clothes a breeze. It makes use of Samsung’s own Eco Bubble Technology that allows powerful cleaning in cold water. Using warm water is an extra step when it comes to doing the laundry, and it can also be damaging to some fabrics. But the Eco Bubble allows for easy cleaning by completely dissolving detergent even with cold water producing fine foam that easily penetrates the fabric for both effective and gentle, cutting the time, effort, and energy needed in doing this task.

In addition to being extremely powerful with its high Revolution Per Minute (RPM) rate, it is also furnished with the Stain Away Program. This pre-programmed cycle was designed to deal with the 12 most common types of stains: blood, cocoa, sebum, oatmeal, tea, wine, tomato, pencil lead, mud, makeup, lipstick, and grass. It does all this with less noise, less vibration, and more performance than an ordinary washing machine. And of course, it is outfitted with the Digital Inverter Technology, guaranteeing efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Samsung Smart Oven

Last on Samsung’s latest digital appliance lineup is the Samsung Smart Oven. The Samsung Smart Oven comes with more cooking settings in order to provide families with the best cooking experience possible. It includes features such as auto-cook for pre-programmed recipes yogurt making, dough proofing, and “Slim Fry” function. Slimfry function is what differentiates this from the typical Microwave Oven, since preparing meals no longer has to be an unhealthy experience.
The “Slim Fry” technology allows you to enjoy your favourite fried food cooked to a crisp without the oil. Cooking healthier meals for the family without cutting on taste and texture is now made possible. Meanwhile, the other smart features this smart oven has fulfilled a multitude of purposes. Its premium sensors allows it identify a food’s surface temperature, so whether it is frozen, chilled, or fresh, it can adjust its heat accordingly so you do not have to worry about overcooking or undercooking your meals. This makes it a great addition to any household.