“THE HOBBIT” REVEALS 8 MAJOR CHARACTER POSTERS

The character poster artworks for Peter Jackson's “The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies,” have been unveiled online. The one-sheets individually feature in close-up shots the film's eight major characters namely Bilbo, Gandalf, Thorin, Galadriel, Legolas, Tauriel, Bard and Thandruil.

The third in a trilogy of films adapting the enduringly popular masterpiece The Hobbit, by J.R.R. Tolkien, “The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies” brings to an epic conclusion the adventures of Bilbo Baggins, Thorin Oakenshield and the Company of Dwarves. Having reclaimed their homeland from the Dragon Smaug, the Company has unwittingly unleashed a deadly force into the world. Enraged, Smaug rains his fiery wrath down upon the defenseless men, women and children of Lake-town.

Obsessed above all else with his reclaimed treasure, Thorin sacrifices friendship and honor to hoard it as Bilbo’s frantic attempts to make him see reason drive the Hobbit towards a desperate and dangerous choice. But there are even greater dangers ahead.

Unseen by any but the Wizard Gandalf, the great enemy Sauron has sent forth legions of Orcs in a stealth attack upon the Lonely Mountain.

As darkness converges on their escalating conflict, the races of Dwarves, Elves and Men must decide – unite or be destroyed. Bilbo finds himself fighting for his life and the lives of his friends in the epic Battle of the Five Armies, as the future of Middle-earth hangs in the balance.

“The Hobbit” Trilogy tells a continuous story set in Middle-earth 60 years before “The Lord of the Rings,” which Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Peter Jackson and his team brought to the big screen in the blockbuster trilogy that culminated with the Oscar®-winning “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.”

Ian McKellen returns as Gandalf the Grey, with Martin Freeman in the central role of Bilbo Baggins, and Richard Armitage as Thorin Oakenshield. The international ensemble cast is led by Evangeline Lilly, Lee Pace, Luke Evans, Benedict Cumberbatch, Ken Stott, James Nesbitt, with Cate Blanchett, Ian Holm, Christopher Lee, Hugo Weaving, and Orlando Bloom.

Opening across the Philippines on Dec. 12, 2014 in theaters and IMAX, “The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies” is distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.

Rep Phils to stage ‘Scrooge’ musical this Christmas

Miguel Faustmann

This Christmas, Repertory Philippines is reviving a classic to remind everyone of the true holiday spirit. Scrooge: A Family Musical will inspire viewers from November 21 to December 14 at the Onstage, Greenbelt 1 in Makati City, capping off Repertory’s 2014 calendar.

“I feel that in this generation, the spirit of Christmas is disappearing. It has become commercialized when we should be celebrating the birth of Christ. The spirit of Christmas, the spirit of giving, loving, and generosity are all embodied in Scrooge more than any other script,” said director Baby Barredo, also Repertory Philippines’ co-founder and artistic director.

The timeless tale A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens is a staple in the theater scene during the Yuletide season, endearing families with the same message of sharing and forgiveness. Repertory Philippines has brought the story to stage for three times—all box office hits using different adaptations of the story. The fourth staging takes a cue from the book, music, and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse.

The story follows the miserly life of banker Ebenezer Scrooge and his journey towards realizing the true spirit of Christmas through three ghosts: that of his past, present, and future. “Some people relate to the work-earn money thinking Scrooge has. In past productions, people approached us backstage, saying how guilty they felt. The story is an eye-opener. It’s the perfect Christmas show,” said Miguel Faustmann, who is playing the title role.

Faustmann expressed a mix of excitement and nervousness for his part. “My parents used to take me to Scrooge plays as a kid, and I dreamt of playing the role. Now I finally get to do it,” he said. In the past stagings, Faustmann has essayed the roles of Jacob Marley, Scrooge’s deceased business partner, and Fezziwig, Scrooge’s jolly old boss. Alternating for the main character and also in his debut rendition of Scrooge is Chinggoy Alonzo.

With a nostalgic ensemble of 19th century London scenery and music, enlivened by a talented local cast, Scrooge is poised to bring out the holiday cheers out of every spectator — even the grumpiest one crying out, "Bah, humbug!




About Scrooge
Based on the book, music, and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse, Scrooge: A Family Musical will be staged by Repertory Philippines from November 21 to December 14 at Onstage Theater, 2nd Floor of Greenbelt 1, Paseo de Roxas cor. Legazpi Street, Makati City. Directed by Baby Barredo, the story brings life to timeless classic A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens.


For tickets or inquiries, visit www.repertoryphilippines.com or call Ticketworld at 891.9999. Check out Repertory Philippines on Facebook for updates. #RepPhilsScrooge

Nickelodeon prepares the ultimate scarefest this halloween!

Let your kids have a great party this holloween, by trooping to SMX MOA, and have the best scare of their lives with their Nickelodeon favorite childhood heroes.

It’s time to scream and shout as Nickelodeon prepares the ultimate scarefest this Halloween with its annual themed party. Kids of all ages are called on to join this year’s “Mutant Mayhem” on October 31, 2 PM, at Hall 1 of SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

A homage to everyone’s favorite childhood heroes in a half shell, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, as well as other mutants from popular Nickelodeon shows, this year’s theme celebrates the supernatural in all its forms, from the fairly mischievous to the downright menacing.

One of this year’s most anticipated trick-or-treat events is complete with entertainment, attractions, games and freebies that make for a hauntingly memorable Halloween experience. From the rooftops to the sewers, boys and girls will be thrilled to no end with the line-up of stage games, booth activities and surprise appearances and performances from their favorite Nick characters.

Of course, what is Halloween without the strange ensembles and monstrous make-up? This year’s costume contest shines the spotlight on kids who stand out in the most creative, scariest or cutest looks. Rounding out the fun-filled event are the spooktacular prizes and goodies to be given away, from dangerously cool merchandise to wickedly yummy treats.

From October 1 to 31, Mutant Mayhem freaks can grab two free tickets to the spine-tingling event of the season for a minimum single receipt purchase of P1000 at any participating Toy Kingdom and Toy Kingdom Express stores.

Those up for a little contest can also score tickets by answering this simple question:  If you were a mutant, what would be your special skills or powers? This is open to kids ages seven to 14 years old. Just log on to nick-asia.com, register, and send in your reply. 50 kids with the best answers will get four tickets each to the event. Deadline of entries is on October 26, so get creative and submit your entries now!

So embrace your superpowers and “ooze” control at Nickelodeon’s Mutant Mayhem this Halloween! For more information, log on to www.nick-asia.com/mutantmayhem or visit Nickelodeon’s Facebook page.

Nickelodeon’s Mutant Mayhem is presented by Toy Kingdom. Co-sponsored by Ace Water Spa, Jack ‘n Jill Wiggles, Jack ‘n Jill Chiz Curls, Kinder Joy, Koala’s March, Lipps Pop Stix, McDonalds, Monster High, Skechers Kids, Swift, and Tobots.

Sunnies Studios celebrate 1st year anniversary in style!

When Sunnies Studios hit Manila last year of October,  I was one of the thousands who lined up to their store located at SM Moa.  It was named Sunnies by Charlie then. The sunnies are well-loved because of its hip vintage style, quality, design and not to mention its affordable price range from P299 to P799. There are aviator, wide-rimmed, oversize shades, teashades, anything that you looked for in sunnies. It is comparable to a high-end designer cool eyewear without the hefty price. There is a Jane Birkin-inspired design and Paul Newman's too. Their sunnies has cute sounding names. I owned around 3 which I alternate with my designer sunglasses.

The Sunnies by Charlie is now officially Sunnies Studios owned by the well-known entrepreneurs/fashionistas Georgina Wilson,  Martine Cajucom, Bea Soriano and Eric Dee Jr. One couple, two cousins—all friends—they came together in 2013.

Sunnies Studios recently celebrate their 1st year anniversary last October 19, in style at Forbes Park, the festive party has the impressive guestlist of the movers and shakers of the fashion industry. The grand celebration started at 3:00 pm with endless uploads of photos from the social media Instagram (which has a 125,000 followers) Twitter and Facebook, the last time I checked Sunnies Instagram account,  pictures were still coming  until 12:00 am of  the following day.

 No wonder its office is teeming with mood boards, Polaroid snaps, and wall after wall of inspos paying homage to staff’s Pantone obsessions and lust for mid century furniture, holiday hotspots, teenage daydreams, drive-in typography and girl crushes ad nauseam.

This predilection for effortless cool is the ongoing romance that keeps the sparks flying, but what seals the deal is Sunnies Studios’ no-holds-barred take on expansion. This year, it opened 25 stations
nationwide and grew its manpower to  more than 150 employees. It also sells in Zalora, Avon, and all Cebu Pacific flights.

Expect launches in Iloilo, Boracay, and Clark by the end of 2014 to match its unprecedented social media presence, backed by 125, 000 followers on Instagram alone. With the numbers adding up, the inevitable name-change happened.

Sunnies Studios wants to communicate the brand’s growth as a retail space and lifestyle concept from an apparel spin-off to an umbrella label that houses unisex sunglasses and SPECS.

Offering a range of styles from cat eye glasses to mirrored aviators, the eyewear rookie stays true to its signature blend of Cali cool and jet set insouciance.


Photographer Emman Montalvan best captures this spirit of wild abandon in Sunnies Studios’ recent road trip campaign that sees its endorser, Georgina, on a road trip across the west coast from Joshua Tree to Silver Lake. Along the way, she and Martine stumbled upon desert art installations, slept at motels, loitered illegally around trailers, and outwitted Beverly Hills security.

In line with that adventure, Sunnies Studios also launched its first men’s line in collaboration with Borgy Manotoc. The collection redefines contemporary classic styles for men from all walks of life. Shot in a warehouse by Nicco Santos, the hijinks ensue alongside vintage cars, water tanks, and samurai swords.

As Sunnies Studios turns one, it is moving to a bigger HQ replete with pink marble flooring, personalized art, astro turf, and a horde of succulents. It is also revamping its official website fully groomed to appease everyday cravings for new Sunnies products and content. Stay tuned.

Triple O's second restaurant now OOOpens at Sm Aura Premier

Triple O’s Now OOOpen at SM Aura Premier

It has been four months since Triple O's launched its first restaurant at SM Megamall. For a starter I ordered their Bacon Cheddar burger (which is love at first bite)  it is big, tasty and fresh, their burgers will not dissapoint those who have big appetite.   For my friends living/working  near the Fort area, this favorite burger joint from Canada  opens its second branch at the fourth floor of SM Aura Premier.

 For anyone who has been to Canada, Triple O’s by White Spot will be instantly recognizable, placing an ear-to-ear smile on their face.

Established by Nat Bailey in 1928 as Canada’s first drive in restaurant, Triple O’s took an uncompromising stance on quality and flavor, propelling the brand into the powerhouse that it is today. It can also be said that Triple O’s huge success is due in large part to the legendary Triple O’s burger, which continues to make waves among customers who simply can’t get enough.

Triple O’s proclamation of having the “sauciest, juiciest, tastiest, bestest burgers around,” may sound like a tagline, but the 100% Canadian beef patty that goes into every burger is a convincing reason to back up the dialogue. Alongside its inimitable burgers, Triple O’s likewise offers fish and chicken burgers, which are perfectly grilled to a crunchy, flavorful crisp, as well as a selection of other main courses, such as chicken, pasta, and fish dishes.

“In Manila, we have also become known as the place that serves the best milkshakes in town,” explained Pinky Yee, who was mainly responsible for bringing the brand to the Philippines. “Our hand-scooped Triple O’s milkshakes have developed quite a loyal following,” she further noted.

For more information, please visit facebook.com/triplesosph or visit branches at the SM Megamall and SM Aura Premier.

John LLoyd Cruz turns ordinary times into #magicmoments

What will you do if John LLoyd Cruz suddenly appears from nowhere, hugs you back and surprises you with gifts? and turn your ordinary day into that one lovely afternoon? Watch the following videos, find out how John Lloyd Cruz delightfully bring that winning magical moments to people he encountered in their everyday lives.

Magic Man John Lloyd Cruz has struck again, this time in selected areas nationwide. Springing into the lives of unsuspecting people during their daily routines, Magic Crackers’ longtime endorser brought with him surprises and special prizes that transformed ordinary situations into magical moments. As part of the “Nothing Like Magic” campaign of Universal Robina Corporation’s (URC) Jack ‘n Jill Magic, John Lloyd visited Laguna, Pampanga, Cebu, Iloilo and Manila to show that magic moments can happen to anyone, anywhere and anytime, when he and Magic Crackers are around.




At the Centro Supermarket in San Pablo City, Laguna, the magic moment happened when 29-year-old Charita Tuyogan bought a pack of Magic Flakes which entitled her to pick an instant prize from a bowl at the Magic booth. Charita could not believe her eyes when she read her instant prize: “Congratulations! You win a BIG hug from John Lloyd Cruz, NOW NA!” She was even more shocked when the charming actor appeared out of nowhere and gave her and one-year-old son Jehoram Mendigorin a warm embrace. John Lloyd also gave the housewife a Magic Family Treat worth P50,000, which consists of URC products and shopping money. “Ang sarap palang magka-Magic Moment,” said Charita upon learning of her prize.



A lucky grocer at the Iloilo Supermart got the surprise of her life when, after being made to wait for a sample product, she came face-to-face with John Lloyd who personally replenished the stocks in the Magic booth. Aside from meeting the matinee idol, special education student Karen Almojallas of Lapaz, Iloilo City also received a Magic Back-To-School Package worth P50,000, which consists of a laptop and Robinsons gift checks.



At the Iloilo Airport, John Lloyd pulled a surprise on Micah Seminio of Calumpang, General Santos City as she was waiting for her flight home. The celebrity approached the unwary passenger and talked to her, acting as if they were old friends who have not seen each other for a long time. To celebrate the magic moment, the award-winning actor gifted her with a Magic Shopping Treat worth P50,000, which consists of URC products and Robinsons gift checks.



At the Clark International Airport in Pampanga, 27-year-old overseas Filipino worker Jennifer Daquigan of Sta. Maria, Pangasinan was waiting for her flight to Hong Kong when she suddenly noticed John Lloyd sitting in front. She was thrilled when the matinee idol started talking to her and was excited when the Magic Man presented her with a Magic Negosyo Starter worth P50,000 of URC products. “Napakasaya, ang sarap ng feeling” was how the lucky OFW summed up her Magic moment experience.



Angeles Public Market store owner Corazon Ocampo experienced a unique and rewarding surprise. A URC delivery guy who looked exactly like John Lloyd Cruz, came over one day not only to deliver boxes of Magic Crackers but also to give her a Magic Vacation Package worth P50,000, inclusive of airfare via Cebu Pacific, 2-night accommodation and pocket money.



At the Robinsons Supermarket in Fuente, Cebu, Jenevie Verances got excited upon knowing she will receive a freebie after purchasing Magic Flakes. Her excitement turned to tears of joy when the Magic man appeared out of nowhere to give her another gift—a Magic Domestic Vacation Package worth P50,000.



For University of Cebu students Rosa May Roa, Grace Alcovendas, Bob Burton Paglinawan, Exille Dio Golvin and Harold Hope Ariar, an ordinary trip to a photo booth turned into a magical moment when John Lloyd suddenly appeared to give them a Magic Rainy Day Shopping Spree consisting of P50,000 worth of Robinsons gift checks.



During their school’s annual pep rally, little did the students of the Technological Institute of the Philippines Manila know that simply participating in one of the games could win them such a magical moment. After a series of elimination games, Ester Policarpio, Jomabell Loscano, Sheryll Limpios, Zyren Joy Tristeza and Paula Isabel Sazon found themselves lucky to end up as game winners. As they were about to get their prizes, they saw John Lloyd Cruz walking towards their direction. The heartthrob awarded them with a Sem Starter Surprise in the form of Robinsons gift checks worth P50,000, making their victory even sweeter.

All Robinsons gift checks are valid for use in all Robinsons Retail Holdings stores such as Robinsons Supermarket, Robinsons Department Store, Handyman, Toys R Us, Topshop, Warehouse, River Island, and many more.

John Lloyd Cruz and Magic Crackers have a lot more tricks up their sleeve. Who knows, you might find them in your neighborhood one day with their surprises and special prizes, turning ordinary times into magic moments.

GlutaMAX partners with Posh Nails for the White Zumba Party

I have been doing aerobics for years, it let me lose weight the fun way while exercising from 142 lbs I trimmed down to 116 lbs. But since Zumba was born, a Latin-inspired, calorie-burning dance-fitness party developed by Alberto “Beto” Perez. It has become an international dance fitness craze.
Zumba is a moderate form of exercise that lets you dance/rest in between pace and gives you the benefit of a cardio-work-out. If your goal is to be healthy, work up a sweat, and stimulate your cardio system,  then Zumba is for you.

GlutaMAX partners with Posh Nails,  one of the country’ s leading nail spa in celebrating the #WhiteZumbaParty with the media held at Roxys Event Place, Tomas Morato last October 16, 2014. It was graced by the GlutaMAX's Jose Paulo N. Legaspi – President, HEALTHWELL NUTRACEUTICALS, INC.,ambassadors Alice Dixson, Regine Angeles, Jackie Oda and  GMA artists Diva Montelaba, Stephanie Sol, and Mayton Eugenio.

GlutaMAX's hero ingredient -glutathione, the body's master anti-oxidant, has a long list of health benefits. And that's on top of its side effect, which is whitening,"  says Jose Paulo N. Legaspi – President, HEALTHWELL NUTRACEUTICALS, INC.,

Jose Paulo N. Legaspi

Paul Riyadh Chuapoco

 Posh Nails, with its long- standing record in providing the best nail spa services, is the kind of partnership we're looking for," says Jose Paulo N. Legaspi , Healthwell'Nutraceuticals President "This partnership with GlutaMAX is definitely one of the highlights of Posh Nails 1 29' Year Anniversary celebration," says Cat Ilacad , President and CEO of Posh Nails. "We hope that this will last for many Posh Nails anniversaries to come," Ilacad added. Posh Nails offers Whitening Manicure + Pedicure powered by G1utaMAX. This is an advanced treatment designed to eliminate stains and keep your nails lighter, smoother, and more youthful.

Jackie Oda and Regine Angeles

 Joining in on the Zumba fun were some of the metro's top bloggers and the winners of #MyGlutaMAX online contest. The White Zumba Party was sponsored by ‘Nice Day Coffee, Jamba Iuice, Krispy Kreme, Vitamax — C, YSA Skin & Body Experts, Creamy Delight, YSA Botanica, MEISTER, PRDGY, Beyond Yoga, Spa in the City, The Farm Organics, and Pizza Hut.

GlutaMAX, a premium whitening system, has been in the country since 2007.  GlutaMAX’ bestsellers are the following  (Underarm & lnner Thigh Cream, Light & Firm Facial Wash, instant White Lotion, Light & ‘Fight Feminine Wash, Reduced Glutathione Capsule, Lightening soap. Lightening Lotion, Deodorant and Anti-perspirant and Lightening Cream).  GlutaMAX and PoshNails‘ shared passion to promote‘ Health; Beauty‘ and Fitness.  As part of the partnership, GlutaMAX and Posh Nails launches a new salon service: Whitening Manicure+Pedicure powered by GIutaMAX.

The paradise that is Green Canyon Resort

I woke up very early, packed my bag headed to Quezon City and joined the group of bloggers and media for our ride going to the grand opening of the Green Canyon Resort  last October 10, 2014. It was a one and a half ride from QC to Pampanga.  Green Canyon Resort is a 29-hectare property located at the heart of Sacobia Valley. I was overwhelmed at what greeted me, the  countryside is beaming with verdant green trees, mountains and a relaxing fresh air. Just what I needed from the hustle and bustle in the city.

Well-renowned for its eco-art concept of a recreational destination, Green Canyon Resort celebrated its grand opening with a series of exciting activities.  The premier vacation spot in the North gave us an ultimate experience of what kind of understated service, high quality, and culinary delights that the holiday sanctuary has to offer.

Enthusiastically hosted by TV personality, movie actress, model, and ANC’s Philippine Realty host Angel Jacob, the event successfully began the event with a ribbon cutting ceremony at the start of the day that was filled with charming auras from the attendees and sunny vibe from the nature-friendly atmosphere of the resort.

As a warm welcome, the Director General and Chairman of Philippine Economic Zone Authority, Lilia B. De Lima, provided an energized dose of inspiration to the guests with her keynote speech. It was an honor and privilege to have De Lima in the affair, who is a multi-awarded public official, one of the pillars and creators of the country’s economic zone development, and has the prestige of having a flower named after her by University of the Philippines Los Baños, ‘Hibiscus rosa-sinensis.’

Together with De Lima, art enthusiasts in their respective fields also graced the occasion to take part in Green Canyon Resort’s formal launch, which included famed musician and violinist John Lesaca, Sri Lankan photographer Tilak Hettige, Altro Mondo Arte Contemporanea Gallery owner Remigio David, and Green Canyon Resort resident artist Niccolo Jose. We were also treated to a free visit to Green Canyon’s Hotel Lodge and Art Gallery that features the brilliant creations of pyrography art and wood sculptures of the young and talented artist Niccolo Jose.

Niccolo Jose

As the day had hit the sunny rays of mid-afternoon after the sumptuous Kapampangan dishes and delicacies were served for lunch at the resort’s Events Pavilion, Green Canyon Resort Manager Abel Jose spearheaded a fun-filled line-up of outdoor activities that heightened the energy of the crowd.

We took hold of the activity map that contained the mechanics and list of leisure activities that we will  choose to do for the rest of the afternoon before the dinner event. The activities ranged from a photography class with photographer Caloy Creencia to a culinary session with the resort’s resident chef, an art workshop with Niccolo Jose that highlighted pyrography demonstration, painting, and live woodwork, swimming time in Symphony pool or Waves pool, 30-minute biking, and an EarlyBerd hunt that allowed guests to have fun searching for Niccolo Jose’s wooden miniature bird creation, which entitles its holder to lavish discounts and exclusive promos. We chose the painting session, it was fun doodling and put colors on on what we called our art piece. It was indeed a very fun afternoon.

I got three Berds which entitled me to a lot of discounts the moment I come back and visit the paradise again.

As a unique way to cap off the merriment with an unforgettable night, Green Canyon Resort gathered all its guests to a bountiful dinner that once again showcased farm-to-table food selections inspired from the Kapampangan cuisine. Besides the delicious dishes, the special number of musician John Lesaca added joy to the hearts of many with the soulful beats and notes that he played in the event. Lots of prizes were also given. Photography class teacher Creencia acknowledged winners of the best photo entries, while the resort’s Manager Abel Jose gladly handed the wooden birds to the ones who participated in the EarlyBerd hunt. Before the night ended, Mulatto Band, one of the most sought-after groups in the entertainment circuit, serenaded the guests with its 70s music fever and other contemporary melodies.

Indeed, with the great combination of art and nature, which is all spruced up with a haven of lush greeneries, excellent accommodation, quality amenities, and warm service, Green Canyon remains to be one of the country’s must-visit travel destinations that’s perfect for every adventurous heart and wanderlust spirit.

Green Canyon is located at San Vicente Road, Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga. For more information, visit www.greencanyon.com.ph.