Meeting the Promil gifted children of the 90s today

Meeting the Promil gifted children of the 90s Kiko Galura, James Flores and Shaira Luna made me nostalgic. I remember Shaira Luna from her Promil TV Commercial talking about cardiovascular at such a young age. I was amazed at how these kids grew up fast and established at their chosen career as well.  Every parents want their kids to be like them or at least be as successful and contented at what these three young professional are doing today.

Promil nurtured giftedness by letting the media meet the 3 genius kids of the 90s in person  last January 28 at Makati Shangri-la Isabela Ballroom with guests Joey Ayala and the Promil gifted children of this generation.

The Promil kids of the early 90s were all grown up now and second, their accomplishments as adults are just as impressive as what they were able to deliver as kids.

The young poet, Kiko Galura, has an established career as a publisher in one of the country’s biggest publishing houses. From making words come to life in his poems, he now provides an opportunity and a voice to other storytellers.

James Flores, who was known for his proficiency in astronomy stayed within the sciences, albeit in a different field, taking his masters in clinical psychology. From his love of the stars and their radiance, he helps bring out the brilliance in every child through outreach programs in music for children.

And finally, Shaira Luna, who was poised to enter into the medical world, grew up to become one of the most talented photographers of her generation. From her mastery of the human anatomy, she now captures the best in human form with her photography, building a successful career around her passion.

“A gifted child can be expected to learn faster than other children, have more varied interests, have greater depth of feeling and generally be more than other children,” explains Dra. Leticia Peñano-Ho, President of the Philippine Center for Gifted Education


To celebrate the current success of the gifted alumni, Promil Pre-School brought back together the famous trio, almost 20 years after their commercial first aired on national television. The brand’s heritage on giftedness is further exemplified through their achievements and their journey towards becoming valuable gifts to society.

“Throughout the years, Promil Pre-School has been encouraging parents to keep nurturing the gifts of their children. As we usher in a new year, we encourage others to become advocates of giftedness as well,” says Dian Yu, Product Manager of Promil Pre-School.


In 2015, Promil Pre-School is launching their Gifted Movement campaign, which is a movement to supporting and celebrating giftedness in the country. The brand aims to spark interest and gain the commitment of moms and consumers to take an active role in advocating giftedness and nurturing it.

Jollibee welcomes Black Eyed Peas member apl.de.ap as its newest franchisee

Black Eyed Peas member apl.de.ap gets a warm welcome from North Luzon Regional Business Unit Head Kay So.

Filipino-American rap artist and member of world-renowned group Black Eyed Peas apl.de.ap has ventured into the food business as a franchisee of the country’s number one family fastfood chain, Jollibee. A native of Angeles City, Pampanga, apl’s very first Jollibee store will open in Dau, Mabalacat, Pampanga on February 6.


Jollibee Regional Business Unit Head for North Luzon Kay So led the team in welcoming apl.de.ap during the franchise agreement signing held at the Jollibee Plaza in Ortigas Center, Pasig City.

The Jollibee Dau McArthur drive-thru store features the latest state-of-the-art store concept design and is the fast-food chain’s 33rd outlet in Pampanga. To date, Jollibee has more than 850 branches all over the Philippines.

KidZania, Manila's first education oriented theme park

KidZania RightZkeepers Bache, Urbano, Beebop, Vita and Chika

It excites me to no end when I learned that a play city KidZania will be coming our way this 2015 in Manila. Our children would surely want to experience how to role play as an adult, from doctors, nurses to firefighters to dentists. They will also learn the art of using and saving money. This would prepare them for their future, for a better world.

KidZania Manila introduced and paid tribute to its Industry Partners during a presentation held at the Hotel Intercontinental Manila last January 29 at Hotel Intercontinental Manila. The tribute was hosted by Ms. Maricel Laxa Pangilinan.  Over 100 officials representing the different Industry Partners, along with members of the media and other guests, were in attendance, as they celebrated the wonderful play experience in store for Filipino kids.

Henk Hermans, Project Director KidZania Manila.

With more than 100 role playing activities, KidZania Manila empowers children to explore, discover, and choose whatever roles they want. Here, children get to experience how a community works, earn and manage their money, as well as cooperate and work with others. Each experience is completely hands-on and helps develop teamwork, independence, self-esteem, and valuable life skills – equipping kids to create a better world in the future.

Immersive, interactive role play rooted in real-life activities and establishments is at the core of the KidZania experience. And that is where Industry Partners support the experience:  with their expertise in their respective industries, Industry Partners help bring realism to the kid-sized city, providing children with truly engaging activities and skills that they can use in real life.

“We want kids to imagine, to play and have fun, enjoying the amazing role play experiences at KidZania Manila. They will learn, as they play, about the varied, interesting roles and establishments that collaborate and serve to create a good community.  Our Industry Partners contribute significantly to make the KidZania Manila experience as authentic and meaningful as possible for the children who will visit our play city,” said Maricel Pangilinan-Arenas, State Governor for KidZania Philippines. “With their years of knowledge and expertise, they help enrich the educational entertainment value of the KidZania concept.”

KidZania Manila President and CEO Maricel Pangilinan Arenas

As KidZania Industry Partners, companies will have a real opportunity to become indispensable parts of the story as KidZania Manila incorporates each real-world brand into various establishments. As a result, the experience sparks the imagination, ignites their minds, nurtures creativity and inspires real-world exploration.

“What makes the KidZania experience unique is immersive, authentic role play, so it is important to incorporate realistic places and recognizable brands that make up a city,” said Cecille L. Mariño, KidZania Manila Industry Partners Director.

KidZania Manila is opening this 2015 at the Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Visit manila.kidzania.com for more information and updates.

Its The Script's third time live in Manila at the SM Moa Arena

I became a fan of The Script  the first time I watched them performed live 4 years ago at The Araneta Coliseum. What I did remember then was the way Danny O’Donoghue (vocals / piano) belted out The Man Who Cant Be Moved. Everyone shrieked, sang and had a time of their life. I didnt get to attend their second concert though because of my busy schedule this was last 2013.  Now on their 3rd gig here in Manila,  I will not let this pass again. Rain or shine, I will surely be a part of the crowd, this time at SM MOA Arena on April 17, 2015.

This year, SM MOA Arena has been the venue for historic events. After the Pope’s meeting with the families last January 16, comes an epic top international music artists concert line up!

Known as the Staples Center of the Philippines, seize the opportunity to be entertained in the newest world-class indoor concert venue with ultramodern features only at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, Philippines.  Don’t miss out the chance to experience concert on the exceptional with world-standard amenities unique in all of Southeast Asia. SM MOA brings you top international artists such as 1975, Michele Bublé, The Vamps, T-Pain, Ed Sheeran, Incubus,  One Direction, The Script, Demi Lavato, Sam Smith and our very own respected local artists!

 

The renowned American rock band Incubus: Brandon Boyd, Mike Einziger, Jose Pasillas, Ben Kenney, and DJ Kilmorewill definitely astound MOA Arena as they perform on March 13, Friday at 8pm.

The international pop sensation One Direction will make the teenagers’ wish come true on their first ever concert on March 21 and 22 in SM Mall of Asia Grounds. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime chance to meet Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Liam Payne, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson and get swoon over the world’s prominent boy band of this generation.

The crooner and multi-awarded singer and songwriter Ed Sheeran will melt the hearts of Filipino fans for his first concert on March 12, Thursday here in Manila. He will be performing his singles from his latest album X which debuted number 1 in the Billboard 200.

Starmobile launches the Starmobile Sync 2.0 app

Rapid smartphone adoption creates need for seamless ‘data migration’

A 2014 study by UK-based research firm On Device Research reveals that half of Filipino mobile phone users will own a smartphone by the end of 2015.

Apart from the demand for high-speed mobile services, this unprecedented rise in usage has also created the need for a fast and easy way to ‘migrate’ data from basic phones to smartphones.

Keeping this in mind, Philippine smartphone and tablet manufacturer Starmobile has introduced Starmobile Sync 2.0, an intelligent mobile app that enables end-users to transfer phone data quickly and hassle-free.

“Filipinos have become aware of the benefits of owning a Starmobile smartphone,” said Starmobile Product Development Head Michael Chen. “But one thing that discourages them from making the jump is that their contacts, text messages, photos, music, and videos are ‘trapped’ in another device—Starmobile Sync addresses all of that,” he said.

Building on the success of the original Starmobile Sync, Starmobile Sync 2.0 now includes Wi-Fi functionality.

“Before, the app could only transfer data via Bluetooth. With Wi-Fi functionality it has become faster, more seamless, and more universal,” Chen said.

A Starmobile KNIGHT X user for example simply has to power up Starmobile Sync 2.0 on the source and target devices and make sure both are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

From there on, it’s as simple as following the on-screen instructions. Depending on the network’s capabilities, Starmobile Sync 2.0 can transfer over 1,000 contacts in less than a minute.

Users of non-Wi-Fi enabled devices, meanwhile, can opt to use the Bluetooth transfer option.

Starmobile Sync 2.0 is available in all new Starmobile Android devices, beginning with the recently announced Starmobile KNIGHT X and Starmobile UP Snap.

For more information, please visit www.starmobile.com.ph or call 333-STAR (7827).

Zalora launches Lunar New Year 2015 Collection

Usher in the year of the Sheep in ZALORA’s bold and opulent Lunar New Year 2015 collection. The 150-piece womenswear collection is a modern interpretation of the traditional Chinese wear, perfect not only for the festive season but also for the rest of the year. ZALORA prides itself on launching modern and stylish ethnic wear collections suitable for local festivities and this year’s Lunar New Year collection, which comprises a mix of peplum tops, playsuits and fit and flare dresses, is no exception.

Designed for the fashion conscious women, the ZALORA Lunar New Year collection is perfect for those who want to celebrate the Lunar New Year in festive wear that give a fashion-forward nod to
the traditional Chinese garb. The collection incorporates interesting fabrics such as jacquard and neoprene with lace and oriental bloom prints.

The Asian influenced prints on modern silhouettes and cuts accented with mandarin collar shows a cross between traditional and contemporary design. A strong palette of auspicious red from bright rose to darker wines dominates the collection and is mixed with hints of fashion’s latest hues - blue, white and coral keeping the overall look fresh and modern.

Regine King, ZALORA Philippines Head of Category Management said, “As a form of expression, fashion must reflect the intricate dynamics of bridging the past to the present and with the future. Our collection pays tribute to traditional Chinese aesthetics interpreted in contemporary silhouettes to help dress the modern woman. Women nowadays are more discerning and want to mix and match their wardrobe; they are innovators and want to own their look.”

“Our collection gives them the chance to celebrate heritage without looking dated and empowers them to style freely as each piece can match any modern fashion accessory.” Paulo Campos, ZALORA Philippines’ Managing Director, added.

Prices range from Php 1,000-2,000  meaning getting your glam festive look this Chinese New Year is not only quick and convenient with ZALORA’s same day delivery option (or 1-3 day delivery time), but also affordable. The collection is available exclusively on ZALORA from now until sold out.

Lets commit this February on "Comet"

I have always anticipating for an Emmy Rossum film, it is seldom that I see her face on the big screen, the latest was at the 2015 Screen Actors Guild Awards as presenter. I always love her style and acting. Im glad that the 28-year-old actress returns on "Comet" the movie.

“A beautifully rendered experience that excels on nearly every level”  Awards Circuit

Following the success of the Adam Levine-Kiera Knightley starrer Begin Again, Solar Pictures brings to local cinemas “COMET”-- a cosmic love story that is sure to leave audiences with that warm February feeling.

“Comet,” stars Golden Globe nominee Emmy Rossum (“The Day After Tomorrow,” “The Phantom of the Opera,” “Mystic River”) and Justin Long (“Live Free or Die Hard,” “He’s Just Not That Into You”).

“Comet” is an original modern love story that follows Kimberly (Rossum) and Dell (Long), who first meet at the Hollywood cemetery where they’ve both come to watch a meteor shower.

Kimberly is brilliant and beautiful; Dell is nerdy and pessimistic, but with an incredibly sharp mind and direct manner. While she and he are not a natural pair, they are cosmically drawn to each other and, under a night sky, luminous with falling stars, they begin their epic love story.

As the opening title card states the events “take place over six years (a few parallel universes over).”

But what starts as a typical romance quickly turns dreamlike as viewers leap back and forth in time, examining their eventual six-year relationship through the lens of their meeting and four other pivotal moments: a monumental fight at a friend’s wedding in Paris; a break up conversation after Dell has moved to New York; a reconnection on a train ride along the California coast; and finally, when Dell pops in on Kimberly unexpectedly in her home in the Hollywood Hills.

The leaps between these moments are seamlessly woven together to create a sense that this love story transcends time and space and that Kimberly and Dell are destined to be together, if not in this universe, then maybe the next.

Content Media introduced and screened the film to international distributors for the first time at the 2014 American Film Market (AFM) last November and was then picked up by Solar Pictures, among other films.

“The universal theme and inventive storytelling in ‘Comet’ have us believing that audiences will really connect with the film,” said Content Media President of Film Jamie Carmichael. “We were drawn in immediately and are happy to have this film…”

COMET opens in cinemas nationwide on February 25, 2014 and is released by Solar Pictures.


For more information Like the Solar Pictures Facebook page: www.facebook.com/solarpicturesPH
Solar Pictures YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/solarpicturesPH
Watch the #CometMovie trailer here http://youtu.be/VncNuiNKiOc

Artist Theatre Company Sets Marco Polo, an Untold Love Story International Preview!

All roads lead to the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo of the Cultural Center of the Philippines as its curtain opens for Marco Polo, an Untold Love Story, with its international preview slated on March 25 and 26, 2015 at 8pm..

Artists Theatre Company, headed by its Artistic Director Roger Salcedo Chua, brings on stage the life of the Venetian explorer.

Jonathan Wagner

Chua says, “I was aged 14 when I saw a very impressive movie about the life of Marco Polo.  The adventure story of the young man from Venice traveling through the silkroad to Cathay crossing mountains, valleys and deserts was totally fascinating to me. There is no love story in the book about Marco Polo 'Le Devisement du Monde’ Therefore, I created one for this musical. .”

“Two years ago, specifically in August 10, we presented its concert version,” the artistic director shares the beginning of the musical’s creative journey. “We showcased its music, songs and dances. Its workshop version premiered on Feb 8 with a repeat on Feb 9, 2014. The structure of the storyline was highlighted during that time. For this international premiere version, we considered the comments and feedbacks regarding orchestration, choreography, costumes and casting We gave due importance to all aspects of the musical. The audiences can expect something new, something better during our staging in CCP. ”

            Salcedo enthuses. “In all the versions of the musical, its universal theme remains integral. Regardless of time, place, and circumstance, an invisible thread, tangled but unbreakable, ties those who are destined to meet and love each other. This is inspired by a Chinese belief about the invisible red thread of destiny.

Stephanie Reese

            Playing the leads are Jonathan Wagner as Marco Polo and Stephanie Reese as Princess Kogajin. The lead cast includes Chinggoy Alonso as Niccolo, Pinky Marquez as Empress Wu, Gian Gloria as Princess Toragana, Kuya Manzano as Kublai Khan and Enrhil Serguino as Lord Khogatal.

Artist Theatre Company had its inaugural production many years ago with the presentation of David Mamet's 'A Life in the Theater' at the Bulwagang Gantimpala Basement Theater of the CCP. The company’s main goal was to stage plays and productions that cater to a global theater audience.

The invisible thread of destiny leads the company back to where all the artistic and creative dreams started. Only this time, it is in the Main Theater where the story of Marco Polo unfolds. .

 Chua, also wrote the musical’s book and libretto. He also did the set design. Assisting him to create 13th century East West Love story are Daniel Bartolome, conductor of the Manila Sinfonietta Orchestra, Renz Sevilla (Lights Design/Technical Director); Odit Sarte and Raven Ong (Costume Designers); Remus Villanueva (Choreographer); Emmalyn Doverte (Stage Manager) and Dusty Suarez (Production Manager)
.For block reservations, sponsorships, benefactors, investors, send an SMS or call 09175581222,  Email: artiststheater@live.com or joycdelarmente@gmail.com. For tickets, call Ticketworld.(8919999) or the CCP (83211235).

K Brosas and Pooh partners for a night of fun at Casino Filipino Angeles

 The very funny K Brosas and Pooh will bring the house down as they will perform live to tickle your funny bones this January 28.

The stage is ready for the much-awaited special show of K Brosas and Pooh at Casino Filipino Angeles on January 28. If you want fun and comedy, then Casino Filipino is the way to go.

The comic tandem with their witty  and side-splitting punch lines and riotous performances promises a night of pure entertainment, “Sinisiguro kong walang uuwing luhaan sa audience. Lahat tayo ay mage-enjoy sa show… pangako iyan.”

Pooh adds, “Thankful ako dahil until now ay marami pa rin ang sumusuporta sa amin ni K. Nakakataba ng puso kapag may napapasaya kang tao. Ibang level ng happiness iyon.”

For inquiries, call the Entertainment and Bingo Department at (02) 708-2046. 526-0337 loc 2401 or 2403.

Jollibee treats fans to a Jolly Jolly Joy Joy Thanksgiving Party!

The highlight of the Jolly Jolly Joy Joy Christmas Special was Popstar Royalty and Jollibee brand ambassador Sarah Geronimo, who serenaded the crowd with songs from her newest album. 

Jollibee lovers of all ages were treated to a grand musical holiday as the leading fast-food chain celebrated the harmony of the holiday season in the Jolly Jolly Joy Joy Christmas Special with Sarah Geronimo. The Pop Star Royalty and long-time Chickenjoy ambassador led the festivities, which were held at the Trinoma Activity Center, and shared Christmas joy through her heartwarming rendition of well-loved holiday carols and the new Jollibee theme song, “Jolly Jolly Joy Joy.” The event was hosted by Justin and Riki Flores.

“Jollibee has always been a part of many Filipino families’ Christmas tradition, and we are very honored and thankful for that,” said Jollibee Marketing Manager Kent Mariano. “This is why we have made it our goal to make every day, not just Christmas, a celebration na laging pasarap nang pasarap nang pasarap, just like our Chickenjoy.” 

Singing heartthrob and former Yumbassador Sam Concepcion also kept the crowd on their feet with his energetic performance. 

One of the most loved and respected vocal ensembles in the Philippines, The Company also  performed a series of their hits, much to the enjoyment of the crowd

WELCOME THE YEAR OF THE SHEEP WITH LAZADA CHINESE NEW YEAR SALE!

Unwrap 2015 with Lazada.com.ph Chinese New Year Kick-Off Sale Happening this January 27!
With the successful Online Revolution Month culminating last December 12, 2014, Lazada.com.ph is poised to stage yet again another show-stopping shopping event happening this January 27 as a kick-off to the forthcoming Chinese New Year. With jaw-dropping deals of as much as 88% off on select best-selling items, flash sales, and surprise items, keep your eyes peeled on ww.lazada.com.ph/chinese-new-year/ starting 12:01 AM of January 27 and will end on 11:59 PM of the same day.

If you are curious as to what makes it different from the other sale that Lazada.com.ph has previously staged, here are a few pointers to get you started:

1. For the shopaholic nightowls, Lazada.com.ph will be holding night Sales Promotion from 12:00 AM – 8:00 AM of January 27, with many night vouchers up for grabs to give you the best additional discounts on top of discounted best selling items!
2. For those who seek adventure and shopping thrill, there will be 16 Hourly Flash Sales from 8:00 AM until 11:59 PM!

3. For the competitive shoppers, there will be hourly contests and special prizes on www.lazada.com.ph and on the Lazada Facebook Page www.facebook.com/LazadaPhilippines;

4. For the Deal Hunters to get more out of their hard-earned bucks, Lazada.com.ph will be unveiling killer deals  on best-selling tech and lifestyle items with discounts of as much as 88%!!!

5. For those who seek shopping discounts, exclusive discount vouchers can be availed from our partners such as Smart Bro, Citibank, BPI, BDO and Maybank
So spread the word and take advantage of this year’s opening sale from the Philippines’ Biggest Online Shopping Mall – www.lazada.com.ph

So spread the word and take advantage of this year’s opening sale from the Philippines’ Biggest Online Shopping Mall – www.lazada.com.ph