"Gone Girl" Rosamund Pike is back for the Psychological Thriller "Return to Sender"

After watching Rosamund Pike from "Gone Girl", I have been meaning to see her again on the big screen with yet another psychological thriller. She's back again this time in the movie "Return to Sender" where she plays Miranda, a surgical nurse out for revenge after a brutal sexual assault in her home.

                Directed by Fouad Mikati, “Return To Sender” also stars Rumer Willis, Nick Nolte and Shiloh Fernandez.  Pike’s character, Miranda, is an epitome of coolness who lives life in an effortlessly organized way day in and day out. After some time, she finally gave in to her colleagues who set her up on a blind date.

 On the day of their meeting, a man knocked on her door, thinking it was the guy whom her colleagues set her up to go out with, she welcomes him to her pristine home only to realize that he is not the man she’s waiting for.  Miranda soon finds herself defeated after struggling to escape from her assailant, leaving her almost dead after brutally raping her.

                The devastating attack brought out Miranda’s psychopathic tendencies as she tries to befriend William (Fernandez), her attacker in prison only to plot a harrowing revenge when he gets out.  While in prison, Miranda starts sending letters to William to get closer to him and has even helped him secure an early release from prison. Despite stern warning from her father (played by Nolte) to stop her vengeful plot, Miranda and William agree to see each other constantly upon the latter’s release from prison.

                “Return To Sender” opens in cinemas this June 17 from Pioneer Films.

Enjoy "Great Little Moments" with Sensodyne and win a trip to Korea!

GSK Fights to Stop Teeth Sensitivity with “Great Little Moments” Campaign and new Mouthwash Launch:

Good dentists are heaven sent! Especially when you have teeth like mine, I have 2 dentists that I have been frequenting for the past 10 years.  When the older one is not around and or in a holiday or is busy with so many patients, I got to visit the "today's generation" dentist. They are both good dentists with light hands to begin with. They have their own style handling the patients, but both relied to one toothpaste that is Sensodyne. Since I have sensitive teeth,  I only use Sensodyne it helps me with the grinding of the teeth that I suffered at night. I woke up to a "no ngilo" teeth  the following morning, it has been my everyday oral care routine and I love how Sensodyne treated my "pangingilo" for so many years now. I got to enjoy the best of both worlds,  devouring hot and cold food at the same time is not a problem anymore.

Sensodyne, the #1 sensitivity toothpaste in the Philippines, recently launched Sensodyne mouthwash with its ambassador Luis Manzano at Rizal Ballroom C, Makati Shangri-la last June 5. Sensodyne initiates the "Great Little Moments" campaign and affirmed its commitment to create a future where every Filipino is sensitivity-free with the “Say No to Ngilo” advocacy.

Now, you dont have to look for another brand of mouthwash for your oral care.  Sensodyne with its new mouthwash gives not only the benefits of your regular mouthwash but also pangingilo relief.

 Sensodyne Mouthwash has all the benefits of a regular mouthwash like providing lasting freshening effect, and fluoride to strengthen teeth and protect against decay. It’s alcohol-free plus it gives pangingilo relief. It has two variants (Cool Mint and Extra Fresh 250mL) at Php165 SRP. The mouthwash is distributed in major supermarkets and drugstores nationwide.

"Pangingilo" is characterized by a short, sharp, shooting pain, which many sensitivity/pangingilo sufferers often choose to just endure, the discomfort caused by sensitive teeth may only last for a short period, but the emotional effects of missing out on those precious moments with your loved ones over food and drinks has a far longer impact.

“Having sensitive teeth can mean anything from getting a mild twinge to having severe discomfort that can last for several hours. It can also be an early warning sign of more serious dental problems.” said Dr. Rannier Reyes of the Philippine Periodontal Society.

Sensitive teeth occurs when the layer of enamel becomes thin and exposes the softer dentine underneath. This soft layer makes up the inner part of the tooth leading to the tooth’s nerve center and triggers the pain you feel.

Other things that can cause sensitive teeth are brushing too hard or using a hard bristles toothbrush, teeth grinding, gingivitis and receding gums.

Last year, GlaxoSmithKline, the makers of Sensodyne, the #1 sensitivity toothpaste in the Philippines which is also recommended by dentists, spearheaded the “Say No to Ngilo” advocacy where dentists, consumers and Sensodyne came together to enjoin everyone to heed the call to take action to no longer endure the discomfort of pangingilo.

In 2015, GSK and Sensodyne takes the advocacy a notch higher with the launch of “Great Little Moments” digital campaign which encourages Filipinos not only to “Say No to Ngilo,” but also share their experiences after converting to Sensodyne and how they are able to fully enjoy their great little moments sensitivity-free.

Heather Pelier, Incoming Consumer Healthcare General Manager, GSK Philippines.

“With the start of the summer season, everyone is now looking for someplace or something cool, be it at the beach, the pool or even just a quick respite from the heat with some cold drinks or a cone of ice cream, but if you have sensitive teeth, enjoying those cold treats can be a bit tricky,” says Heather Pelier, Incoming Consumer Healthcare General Manager, GSK Philippines.

“But it’s more than just missing out on food. When you choose to just endure the pain, you do it at the expense of fully enjoying experiences and social occasions that go along with it, making you miss out on those great little moments with your loved ones,” Pelier added.

The digital campaign encourages consumers to share their “Great Little Moments” in the Sensodyne Philippines website (www.sensodyne.com.ph) by uploading a photo of a moment (eg. sipping hot chocolate, eating halo-halo, etc.) they can now fully enjoy because they are pangingilo-free. Winners of the contest will win a trip for two to South Korea.

Eduardo Cimafranca, Gianina Fortun, Heather Pelier and Gikki Martija

 “For those who have sensitive teeth like me, I know you’d agree that it is not something you can just ignore. Sensitive teeth can ruin the mood of any romantic date, or stop you from enjoying those unforgettable moments with your loved ones,” Sensodyne brand ambassador, Luis Manzano shares.

Heather Pelier adds, “Our message is simple, there is no need for sensitivity to impact anyone’s life. Making a simple change to one’s oral care regimen will make a real difference. Now that Sensodyne has reached out to more Filipinos who used to just endure the pain, we want to encourage them to tell their stories now that they can enjoy their favorite food and drinks and fully enjoy the eating moments with their family and friends without fear of pangingilo.”

Don’t let the pain of sensitivity get in the way. Say No to Ngilo and Yes to those Great Little Moments!

Backroom talents in ABS-CBN’s ‘Pasion de Amor’

ABS-CBN’s new show Pasion de Amor will feature two new faces: former varsity athlete turned aspiring actor and model Benj Bolivar, and Century Tuna Superbods grand winner Mauro ‘Maui’ Lumba, who join the cast of the sizzling primetime drama that airs right before TV Patrol.

Pasion de Amor, which is directed by Eric Quizon and premiered last June 1 on the Kapamilya network,is the  story of love and revenge between two sets of siblings, the Samonte brothers (played by Joseph Marco, Ejay Falcon and Jake Cuenca) and the Elizondo sisters (Ellen Adarna, Arci Munoz and Coleen Garcia). The original was first aired in 2007 and featured Mexican superstar Mario Cimarro in the lead role.

 In this currently-airing ‘Filipinized’ version, Benj plays the best friend and co-worker of Joseph Marco’s character. “The story is, I met him at this bar called Armada na owned by the family ng mga Elizondo sisters. Si Joseph, nag-apply doon. Ako ang naging best friend niya. Matagal na ako dun sa bar, kaya marami akong alam na family secrets ng magkakapatid.”

The show is Benj’s first acting assignment since Moon of Desire, which was almost a year ago. Benj was surprised when he got the callback from the show’s staff. “Nag-audition ako, nu’ng nagpa-go-see sila ilang months ago,” he says. “Di ko nga inexpect ang callback, hanggang tinawagan nila ako at sinabing na-shortlist daw ako.”

He’s been learning a lot from his co-stars, especially Joseph Marco who, like him started out modeling until he got his big break in showbiz. He’s been advising Benj to be patient with the pace of his career. “Ine-encourage niya ako lagi,” says Benj. “Wag daw ako maiinip, and to just take it one day at a time daw.”


But Benj’s bigger goal is to eventually make his mark as an indie film actor. He dreams of doing gritty character roles like the one done by his idol, Hollywood actor Michael McConaughey in Dallas Buyers Club, the Oscar-nominated film about a Texas electrician who suffers from AIDS.
According to Benj, he’d be willing to do any role or character—he’s even open to gay roles or play a serial killer—as long as what he’s asked to do is essential to the story. “Okay lang naman sa akin,” he says. “Lalo kung kinakailangan talaga.”


          Meanwhile, Century Tuna Superbod winner Mauro ‘Maui’ Lumba also wants to try doing character roles, and he finally gets his chance with his role in Pasion de Amor, where he plays a kontrabida-type role as one of several ‘goons’ employed by the Samonte brothers as they exact revenge for the death of their sister. It might not be a major role or guarantee a lot of screen exposure, but as far as Maui is concerned, it’s a step in the right direction, acting-wise. It’s what every beginner or newbie like him dreams of.

          Of course, there are still many things he longs to do to prove that there is room for him in this business. “Mahilig talaga ako sa mga action films and roles,” says Maui, who longs to prove that there’s more to him than just his good looks and hunky body. “Actually, ang dream ko, maging action star. Gusto ko sana buhayin ‘yung action genre ulit.”

Maui’s goal—aside from being an ambassador for health and wellness—is to prove that he is different and has the potential to stand out from among all the newcomers now angling for a spot in showbiz. Says Maui: “I just want to be different just by being consistent, but ‘yung roles sana, iba-iba and not always the same. I want to be challenged in different ways. Gusto ko din na ‘yung look ko, maiba sa ibang mga artista.”

          Like Benj, he’s willing to go out on a limb and take a risk with his roles and assignments. He’s excited to see what the future holds. “I really want to be an actor,” says Maui.
          He feels that all the guidance he’s received, the workshops and training he’s attended will really help him achieve his goal.  “Kailangan lang siyempre, tiyaga, and to be patient and believe in yourself,” he says philosphically. “Things will happen at the right time.”

ICON Manila Returns for its Second Year of International Entertainment and Design Conference

ICON Manila returns this year for the second International Entertainment and Design Conference this June 26 and 27 in De La Salle College of Saint Benilde.

“International Entertainment Design Conference 2015 is an avenue of learning for students and professionals in the field of fine arts, animation, advertising, games and visual design,” says Armand Serrano, Entertainment and Design Conference organizer. “Our impressive line-up of top industry leaders will bring forth an informative and exciting event which will impart new ideas that will ultimately strengthen Asia’s impact on the industry,” he added.

Speakers of the conference, Ben Mauro, Charles Lee, Noelle Triaureau, John Nevarez, and Armand Serrano, will give lectures on Film Concept, Game Cinematic, Animation Production, Animation Environment, and Visual Development.

These speakers have worked with the largest animation studios all over the world such as Sony Pictures Animation, Pixar Animation Studio, Walt Disney Animation Studio, Marvel Production, Sony Entertainment and Electronic Arts. The speakers have come from decades of exquisite experiences in their respective fields and are behind the big screen movies and games like The Hobbit Trilogy, World of Warcraft, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, and Big Hero 6.

ICON Manila is a paid conference under ICON for Missions, a newly formed non-profit organization based in Eastvale, California. “By hosting various conferences all over the world, its purpose is to raise money to fund their Christian mission and humanitarian aid in needy communities,” says Sam Tanner, Executive Director of ICON for Missions.

Media Partners are De La Salle College of St. Benilde, ABS-CBN, Animation Council of the Philippines INC, FleishmanHillard, Adobo Magazine, CG Masters Academy (USA), 3dsense Media School (Singapore) and The One Academy (Malaysia).

For more details on the conference speakers, schedule, and tickets, visit www.iconmanila.com.

Invest an education plan with Philam Life

Planning Ahead To Learn

Cecile S. Nishigaki (left) receives a check from Philam Life Director of Agencies for Manila B, Rico Bautista, for the education of her daughter Johannah who studies at the Lyceum of the Philippines.



It is a universal truth that parents only want the best for their children, and this is evident when it comes to education. No matter how diverse goals may be, a good education is considered by many as the main foundation of a successful future.

The curriculum, staff, social surroundings, and a school’s track record all play a part when parents need to choose the best academic program to help prepare their kids for “real life.”  A high quality education, however, usually comes with a high price tag.

Considering that future tuition fees can be overwhelming, new parents can benefit a lot from planning ahead. Before their child reach a year old, parents like Cecile S. Nishigaki decided to invest in an education plan with Philam Life to be paid for over the span of five years.

Fast forward to her children’s college years, Cecile now receives her investment in the form of annual checks. Although the annual payments may not cover the tuition in entirety, they undeniably help lighten a lot of the financial load.

Since 2004, Philam Life has released more than P9 billion in educational benefits, with P1.5 billion of that released in 2014 alone.  Johannah, the daughter of Cecile will be entering her 4th year at the Lyceum of the Philippines. Indeed, parents who choose to invest in their children’s future with Philam Life will be happy to see their investment pay off in the future.

GMA Kapuso Star Janine Gutierrez graced the JBL / Harman Kardon launch in Fairview Terraces

QBeyond Innovations Inc., with JBL and the Harman group as its flagship brand in consumer and high-end audio, visual, and infotainment, holds the  ribbon-cutting ceremony and launched the opening of its new store at the 3rd floor of Fairview Terraces Mall last May 30, 2015. GMA Kapuso star Janine Gutierrez graced the launch together with media.

To the JBL/Harman Kardon fans in the Fairview and North area, worry no more because your favorite premium speakers are now available at Fairview Terraces mall.

The new store, located at the 3rd floor of the mall, has already been in operation since March 2015 and was officially launched last May 30.  The store kicked off the launch with store-exclusive discounts as well as a raffle for chance to win great prizes.

 Other great offers include free calibration, trade-in, and discounts of up to 30%. The Grand Prize raffle was held last May 31, 2015.

The JBL / Harman Kardon showroom houses a number of the known Harman brands including JBL, AKG, Harman Kardon, and Infinity among others.  Its lineup of products, which includes portable and home speakers, soundbars, audio/video receivers, and headphones, is unmatched in terms of sound quality and award-winning design.

It is the latest showroom to open, along with other branches in SM Megamall, SM North EDSA, TriNoma, and Bonifacio High Street.  Offering actual hands-on demos of various products and setups, all showrooms provide optimum experience to customers wanting to get the most out of their audio-visual entertainment.  Located at the 3rd level of Fairview Terraces, for inquiries you can call the store at 958-5600.

Versailles Stay, a revolutionary property business concept by Capitarise Holdings Inc and FPD Asia

Versailles Stay: High Concept for High Rise Living

Versailles Stay was officially launched last May 29 at One Central Residences. The launch was attended by Former Ilocos Sur Gov. Mr. Chavit Singson and guests from media.

Now that the staycation is the "in" thing to do these days because it is cost-friendly vacation option, for which the relaxation experience will be just as rewarding, why not try the Versailles Stay? It does offer temporary lodging and common hotel amenities and services to its guests, it brings much more to the table due to its unique business model.

 It is located in the heart of Makati and you could check the malls, restaurants and museum around the vicinity.

Versailles Stay is a rental management solution for fully furnished, high-quality residences, offering dependable property care for unit owners and developers, as well as value-for-money, convenient, and hospitable lodgings for guests and clients.


The property management game in the Philippines is about to change. Enter Versailles Stay, a revolutionary property business concept by Capitarise Holdings Inc. and FPD Asia.

Versailles Stay acts as a gateway for foreign property investors and enables them to access apartment suites from the luxurious condominium developers across the Metro. The Versailles Stay management furnishes and maintains these units, making them available for travellers and stay-cationers. Anyone looking for comfortable, affordable, and top-of-the-line living spaces conveniently placed at the heart of Metro Manila need look no further. Versailles Stay keeps ahead of its competitors and breaks the limits that bind conventional lodging businesses; these benefits are then directly reaped by the property developers and unit owners.

Versailles Stay’s concept creates a winning situation for all parties involved. The first core market, the high-end condominium developers, benefit from directly selling multiple units. The responsibility of managing and maintaining these units, as well as collecting association dues, is then transferred to Versailles Stay’s capable and efficient staff. Since Versailles Stay’s guests avail of the building’s amenities, the company also provides support and maintenance for the building’s recreational facilities.

The unit owners, the second core market, benefit from Versailles Stay’s management of their investment, as they handle the general upkeep of the units and locate prospective occupants. Unit owners can simply sit back and reap the returns.

Versailles Stay’s end users, the guests and the final core market, can rest assured knowing that Versailles Stay places the utmost care and precision in ensuring their comfort during their sojourn.
They have access to amenities and services similar to that of a hotel’s, but at a much more competitive price. They also have options for short to mid-term billeting in prime and select locations across the metropolis. Versailles Stay is the perfect choice for businessmen on corporate trips, professionals attending conferences, or families seeking enjoyable and relaxing stay-cations.


To learn more, visit www.VersaillesStay.com or visit them at the
ground floor of One Central, Sen. Gil J, Puyat Ave., Makati.

MATT DAMON IN “THE MARTIAN”

                The recent release of the first look photos of Ridley Scott’s upcoming film “The Martian” starring Matt Damon reveals the actor as a stranded astronaut left behind by his crew after being presumed dead during a fierce storm.

                “The Martian” features a star studded cast that includes Jessica Chastain, Kristen Wiig, Kate Mara, Michael Pena, Jeff Daniels, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Donald Glover.

                The movie is based on the best-selling novel by Andy Weir wherein Damon’s character Mark Watney, an astronaut left behind on Mars, must draw upon his ingenuity, wit and spirit to survive on the hostile planet while waiting for the most daring and impossible rescue mission to bring him back.

                “The Martian” opens very soon this November 26 from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.

James Wan is set to direct Warner's upcoming "Aquaman" feature

JAMES WAN TO DIRECT WARNER'S UPCOMING AQUAMAN FEATURE

Its good news for DC Comics sea-dwelling Super Hero Aquaman fans,  Warner Bros. Pictures announced today that director James Wan (“Fast & Furious 7,” “The Conjuring”) will take the helm of the Studio’s upcoming Aquaman feature film, with Jason Momoa (“Game of Thrones”) starring as Aquaman. The announcement was made today by Greg Silverman, President, Creative Development and Worldwide Production, Warner Bros. Pictures.

Silverman stated, “We’ve been so lucky to have worked with James, first on New Line’s ‘The Conjuring’ and now on their upcoming ‘The Conjuring 2,’ and are thrilled to have him on board as we continue to expand our DC slate. The Aquaman film will be a major tentpole picture for us and James’s span of work has proven him able to take on any manner of project, bringing his incredible creative talent and unique voice to the material.”

Wan will also be supervising the script by Kurt Johnstad (“300,” “300: Rise of an Empire”). The film is being produced by Charles Roven, Deborah Snyder and Zack Snyder.

Roven said, “James is not only a great storyteller but can make action truly explode on the big screen, and Jason has a dynamic presence that commands your attention. Together, they will bring an undeniable vitality and energy to this character as he headlines his first feature film.”

An icon for over 70 years, Aquaman is the King of the Seven Seas. This reluctant ruler of Atlantis, caught between a surface world constantly ravaging the sea and Atlanteans looking to lash out in revolt, is committed to protecting the entire globe.

Currently set for a 2018 release, the film is based on characters appearing in comic books published by DC Entertainment.

Teen Star Alexa Ilacad is BUM’S Newest Endorser

Fashion can be a form of self-expression and a representation of one’s personality, more so for today’s teens who are brimming with youthful enthusiasm and are in the process of discovering themselves. A clothing brand known for catering to the young segment of fashionistas, BUM keeps up with their market’s ever-evolving tastes and preferences not only by launching trendy casual garbs but by also providing them with new role models and style icons they can take cues from.

BUM has always been the brand of choice of both up-and-coming and most sought-after teen celebrities, like ABS-CBN’s Nash Aguas, Ella Cruz and Jane Oineza, and GMA-7’s Bianca Umali and Miguel Tanfelix (who are collectively known as the “Black Army”).But just when you thought this in-demand style squad cannot get any better, BUM has tapped another well-loved young star, who embody the vitality and versatility of the brand.

Last May 28, Goin’ Bulilit alum and Luv U mainstay Alexa Ilacad was launched as BUM’s latest celebrity endorser in a fun-filled event held at the Sequoia Hotel in Quezon City. This 15-year-old fashionista proves to be a perfect fit for the brand because she’s the adventurous type whose style can go from girly-girl to hip and rugged.

“Super happy ako to be a BUM endorserkasi I can show my versatility through BUM. Sobrangastig ng mgadamitnila. Kahitlagiakongpa-girly in colorful and bright outfits, favorite ko din ’yung dark colors kasimahiligakosarock eh;minsannga feeling korakistaako eh! With the clothes from BUM, I can enjoy and show the best of both worlds,” Alexa says.

That said, her favorite #OOTD-worthy BUM pieces likewise vary from the colorful girly dresses to the rocker-chic hoodies and skull-print tees to the comfy and stretchable jeans—all useful in the various roles she plays as an actress, student and normal teenager.

Alexa’s first campaign shoot with BUM is for the “Black2School” collection, wherein she got to work with the brand’s other ambassadors, which include Nash, her onscreen partnerand the other half of “NLex” love team.

Since it was her first time to shoot an edgy and fierce campaign, Alexa shared that Nash helped calm her nerves as he tried to make the shoot feel lighter and more fun for her. She shares, “Masaya mag-work ’pag meron kang ka-close. Si Nash, nakatulong talaga siya sa akin sa shoot kasi naging mas masaya ang first shoot ko with BUM.”

With the recent success of Nash and Alexa’s last TV show, Bagito, the NLex love team (which started in Goin' Bulilit) has gained more fans, who cannot wait until the two’s next project. In the meantime,fans can look forward to the couple tees soon to be launched by BUM, whose campaign will star this cute duo.A sneak peek of the collection of cute his-and-hers matching tops by BUM, with cool rib cage, skull and graphic prints, was seen in the brand's last "Black2School" collection; the campaign showed Nashgarbed ina blue roundneck statement tee that says "I Stole Her Heart" and Alexa clad in a matching pink round neck statement tee whose print reads "So I am Stealing His Heart."

It hasn’t been long since Alexa did her first BUM campaign shoot, and now she’s already looking forward to the next. While that is in the works, Alexa has taken it upon herself to give her fellow young girls a bunch of style inspirations by posting occasional #OOTDs on her Instagram account (which currently has about 272,000 followers). “Ang dami ko na ngang #OOTD na naka-BUM. Excited na ako i-post,” she quips.Now, girls, that’s something worth double tapping! BUM’s “Black2School” is available at BUM boutiques and leading department stores nationwide.


For more information about BUM’s “Black2School”, visit www.bumequipment.com.ph or follow us “@officialbumph” on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.

#BUMBLACKBOOK: The Fashion Guide to BUMMERZ

Apart from Alexa Ilacad as the latest addition to the roster of talented, teenage brand ambassadors, BUM is thrilled to announce the availability of #BUMBLACKBOOK, which will be part of the #BUMBLACK2SCHOOL campaign in June 2015.

The #BUMBLACKBOOK comes in both handy-style and hard-bound; as it offers all avid BUM patrons or #BUMMERZ the unique style book complete with all the #BUMBLACK2SCHOOL collection.

All the youth brand ambassadors—Ella Cruz, Jane Oineza, Nash Aguas, Bianca Umali, Miguel Tanfelix together with Alexa Ilacad graced the glossy pages of the said #BUMBLACKBOOK, which can be availed for a single receipt purchase of any regular items worth Php1200 in all BUM Boutiques and leading department stores nationwide.

The said novelty item #BUMBLACKBOOK is also a planner. It is a must-have for all BUMMERZ who want to keep abreast and serves as an inspiration-guide for trends and styles inspiration anytime, anywhere.

Featured in the pages of #BUMBLACKBOOK are the campus-appropriate fashion styles that are easily achievable for girls and guys with an ultra-stylish and comfy selection of casual tops such as tees, pullovers and hoodies. There are also pair of jogger or denim pants made more exciting with details like rips, patches and stitching as among the favorite trends of today.

For more updates, visit its website www.bumequipment.com.ph and its social media accounts—Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook via @officialbumph.