Get that New Wave vibe to Walk the Moon's live performances this August!

 The first time I heard "Shut Up and Dance With Me" was in an event I attended at a 5-Star hotel, it reminded me of Talking Heads, David Bowie's, and Prince. It got the 80s vibe and feel to it. Yes, Im an 80s baby (cringe, I am old)  and belong to the era of New Wave, Hard Core and Alternative music. That was the year of feel good music, colored tops,  polos, spraynet and fashion experimentation to say the least.  It was nostalgic. When I received an invitation for the Walk the Moon presscon, I immediately confirmed my attendance and excited to get a glimpse of this fast rising New wave band.

Bringing you the best shopping experiences and also fulfilling your concert dreams, the Ayala Malls urge you to get ready and get set for indie rock band Walk The Moon, as they invade an Ayala Mall near you with a series of live performances.

The Cincinatti-based art-rock quartet featuring lead singer and keyboardist Nicholas Petricca, bassist Kevin Ray, drummer Sean Waugaman, and guitarist Eli Maiman began luring fans with their infectious beats through their 2012 single Anna Sun and have since then been unstoppable. A relentless touring machine, Walk The Moon had graduated to performing alongside artists and bands such as fun., Pink, Panic! At The Disco on world-class stages of Lollapalooza and Bonnaroo.

Their latest album, Talking Is Hard, was an artistic product from six weeks of marathon writing, which they started from scratch, something entirely new to the band. Kevin Ray shares, “We’d never had an opportunity like this before. We were able to live and work in a really creative space - just the four of us.” What ensued was two solid months of recording in North Hollywood where the members were eager to put out a masterpiece. It was so intense that they began one track at 6pm on the last day of recording and were determined to finish so much that, according to Maiman, they didn’t leave the studio until the sun came up. The band bore their hearts out with a fearless, quirky sound unlike anything they’ve done before.

Walk The Moon takes along their authentic touring style, an interactive celebration of life and love, with them as they perform in Manila for the first time ever. Don’t miss them as they perform their top single and pop rock anthem “Shut Up And Dance” along with other catchy tunes like “Work This Body”, “Down In The Dumps”, and “Aquaman”. Catch them on the following dates: August 18, 6PM at Alabang Town Center, August 19, 5PM at UP Town Center, and 7:30PM at TriNoma, August 20, 5PM at Market! Market! and 7:30PM at Glorietta Activity Center.

Ayala Malls continues to bring to its shoppers the best in world-class entertainment a real treat for everyone – another reason to Love ‘em all!

Japan's popular TV series Amachan premieres October on TV5

Everything in Japan, (fashion, skincare, make ups, food, films and tv series)  fascinates me that's why the land of the rising sun is in my bucket list of next- to-visit country if time and budget permits. But that's another story. My friends from Japan swore by the tv series Amachan, they all talked and raved about the show. I am glad that I would be able to watch it this October as TV 5 acquires the right to televise it here.

One of Japan’s highest-rating drama in 2013, Amachan, finds its way into Philippine television, after local channel TV5 signs an affiliation agreement with Japan Broadcasting Corporation, NHK, to telecast the said series.

Amachan's TV execs, CEO Noel Lorenzana, and Japan International Broadcasting Inc. President and CEO Yoshihiko Shimizu signed the partnership contract before the media last August 17 at The Palace Pool, BGC.

Amachan is the first series that set in the Tohoku region after the March 11, 2011 earthquake. Other series have dealt a little bit with the quake, but no other contemporary series so far has spent so much time in the region. It tackles the story of a young woman with dreams of becoming a pop star and includes a number of scenes parodying the Japanese entertainment industry of the 1980s, Amachan became one of the hottest topics to hit the Japanese Internet chat sites.

Local broadcasting network TV5 secured rights to air one of Japan’s highest-rating drama series Amachan. Representatives from Japan’s international broadcasting network, NHK, and TV5 executives were in attendance at the contract signing event held at the Palace Pool Club last August 17. Photo shows (bottom L-R) Japan International Broadcasting Inc. (JIB) President and CEO Yoshihiko Shimizu and TV5 President and CEO Noel Lorenzana signing the contract with (top L-R) NHK Planning and Management Department Sr. Associate Director Hiroshi Yamamoto, JIB Content Department Producer Danika Otagiri, Media5 President Jane Basas, and TV5 Head of Programming Dan De Padua as witnesses.

TV5 representatives, including CEO Noel Lorenzana, and Japan International Broadcasting Inc. President and CEO Yoshihiko Shimizu participated in a Japanese traditional sake toast ceremony, during the contract signing event held at The Palace Pool Club to celebrate the newly-forged partnership. Representatives from both parties also carried out the symbolic floating of sea urchin lanterns in connection to the major elements used in the drama-comedy series.

Amachan is an upbeat drama with moments of comedy about the journey of high-schooler Aki, played by popular Japanese actress Rena Nōnen, in pursuing her dreams of becoming an “ama”, a Japanese traditional free-diver of seafood, particularly of sea urchins in the series, and a pop idol.

The series was an instant hit in Japan, becoming one of the top-rated morning dramas in Japan. Newcomer actress, Nōnen, even won a Best Actress trophy in Japan’s 17th Nikkan Sports Drama Grand Prix for her role in the series. Amachan not only won the hearts of Japanese viewers, the production of the series in the Tohoku region was also seen to have contributed in efforts to restore the region.


The hit drama-comedy earned Japan’s prestigious Galaxy Award for best television program in 2013, and will soon hit Philippine television – making Amachan the only Galaxy Award Gran Prix winner drama series to air in the country.


 In addition to that, a live variety show, Hallo Hallo Café, hosted by seasoned comedian Yachang, will also pilot alongside Amachan as an after-show component. Hallo Hallo Café, presented and sponsored by Hallo Hallo Inc. and the Cool Japan Shop, will not only feature fun games but also give viewers a chance to win thousands of prizes. Viewers simply have to register for free on hallohallo.com to become eligible for the prizes up for grabs as seen in the after-show. Registered hallohallo.com users can also earn up to 10 million points by simply watching the show and being on the lookout for the daily keyword, which equates to points that can eventually turn into prizes.

Amachan premieres October on TV5 with a 30-minute episode, Mondays to Fridays, with fresh episodes in the morning and a replay at night. Catch Amachan, only on TV5.

Salcedo Auctions’ The Well Appointed Life: An Auction Weekend

Now on its second year, Salcedo Auctions’ The Well Appointed Life: An Auction Weekend returns to the Rockwell Tent on 19–20 September 2015 with an even larger array of art, jewelry, timepieces, collectibles and investment quality pieces that will be going under the hammer. From 5–19 September, the Kirov Lounge and Model Unit, and the lobby of the new 8 Rockwell Building at Rockwell Center will be transformed into a preview gallery of all the lots to be auctioned from The Well Appointed Life’s four sale categories—Important Philippine Art, Connoisseur Collection, Fine Jewelry & Timepieces, and Rare Automobiles.

A selection of items that reflect a lifestyle attuned to aesthetics, design and style, The Well Appointed Life promises to be a venue for even the most discerning of individuals to find pieces of significance. Important Philippine Art will feature, among its many highlights, Fernando Zóbel’s gestural monochrome, Arganda (1961) from his Serie Negra or ‘Black Series;’ Vicente Manansala’s Candle Vendors (1977), with its impressive transformation of perspective and the artist’s signature transparent cubist style;  Jorge Pineda’s Las Buyeras (1903), an intriguing speculated early version of his eponymous award-winning entry to the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair; The Tempest (1965), a very rare thickly impastoed abstract expressionist oil by Jose Joya; and a highly coveted BenCab canvas painting from his celebrated Larawan series.  The Connoisseur Collection includes a spectacular diamond hourglass from De Beers, fine china from Hermes and Limoges, a first-edition Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling, a 27-inch gilded Sevres vase from the iconic former royal porcelain manufacturer, and a signed print from the Catalan Surrealist, Joan Miró. On the heels of the Noli Me Tangere sold at last year’s The Well-Appointed Life auction, an even rarer book by National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal, a first edition El Filibusterismo, is among the connoisseur offerings – the first time that this piece of Philippine history is coming to auction.

Also part of this sale is a special sub-category dedicated to Philippine Tribal & Ethnographic Art, including a fine early 20th century figurative house panel in wood with heavy encrusted patina and a decorative Ifugao warrior figure from the late 19th century representing artifacts that are of importance to the legacy of our heritage. A fine and rare, platinum perpetual calendar Patek Philippe, limited-editions from Audemars Piguet, Graff, Richard Mille, and a highly desirable vintage Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263/0 are highlights of the Jewelry & Timepieces offering together with scintillating diamond jewelry and pieces from international houses Bvlgari, Mauboussin, and Van Cleef & Arpels. For the true car aficionados, this year’s Rare Automobiles will see a 1967 Shelby GT 500 “Eleanor” in impressive condition go under the hammer, among other collectible motorcars.

The Well Appointed Life caters to clients who find joy in the art of living well. The objects Salcedo Auctions will be offering this September serve as a reflection of this lifestyle. The movement of art, artifacts, and other valuable collectibles through Salcedo Auctions’ doors allow the stories of each piece to be passed on to the next generation.

As an internationally-recognized auction house, Salcedo Auctions enjoys a reputation of trust and confidence that is reflected by its sterling lineup of partners: Lexus, Rockwell, and Philippine Tatler. Working closely with specialists who curate each sale––which have broken world records––The Well Appointed Life: An Auction Weekend promises to be the lifestyle event of the season.



Follow @salcedoauctions on Instagram and Salcedo Auctions on Facebook for more updates on The Well Appointed Life with the hashtag, #TWAL.

Meet Jollibee's Newest Brand Ambassador Nathaniel's Marco Masa

For a few months now, Marco Masa has been delighting televiewers with his heartwarming portrayal of an angel sent back to the world to restore man’s faith in God in ‘Nathaniel’. In this primetime fantasy drama series, eight-year-old Marco enjoys spreading his wings beneath the limelight along with imbibing the lessons and good morals that come with his role.

As Nathaniel, Marco exemplifies the kindness, obedience, and playfulness of a Filipino child, endearing him to fellow children and entire families. This time, the promising young actor is taking on a new role as Jollibee’s newest brand ambassador, partnering with his ultimate favorites—Jolly Spaghetti and his mom, Sol Masa.

Jollibee’s cheesiest, meatiest, and spaghettiest offering is something that Marco and Mommy Sol both love. With the perfect blend of rich tomato sauce, juicy hotdog and ham bits generously topped with cheese, Jolly Spaghetti is truly the preferred choice of Filipinos and there are no better ambassadors to represent it than the primetime superstar angel and his mom.

“We really love Jollibee, so when we were chosen (as brand ambassadors), we felt very proud,” said Mrs. Masa, who is sharing the limelight with her son for the first time in their Jolly Spaghetti commercial. According to her, Jollibee has always been close to their hearts, especially now that her children are growing up. 

When asked about his favorite food, Marco couldn’t contain his excitement over his mother’s home-cooked meals and his favorite Jolly Spaghetti. “Cheese, maraming maraming cheese with the sauce and meat,” he said when asked about what he liked most about Jolly Spaghetti.

Mother and son also make sure to spend quality time with the rest of the family. “Tapings for Nathaniel are during Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, so Tuesdays and Thursdays are his school days while the weekends are for our family time,” shared Mommy Sol. And just like any other family, “It can be tough, but we make sure we have time to bond as a family especially on weekends to go to malls, play badminton, go biking, and of course, enjoy our favorite Jollibee treats,” she said.

But at the end of the day, it all goes back to the simple joys, “Pinakapaborito ko po ‘yung pagkatapos ng mahabang taping tapos may Jollibee po, lalo na ‘yung spaghetti na maraming cheese at sauce at meat po,” Marco explained. He also expressed his joy about being part of the growing Jollibee family, “Natuwa po ako ng sobra at excited rin po ako sa mga mangyayari.”


Aside from Marco, Jollibee ambassadors include Popstar Royalty Sarah Geronimo, Bamboo, The Voice Kids Season 1 top four Lyca Gairanod, Darren Espanto, Juan Karlos Labajo and Darlene Vibares, Nadine Lustre, James Reid and Zoren Legaspi, Carmina Villarroel-Legaspi and their twins Mavy and Cassy.

“We’re very happy to finally have Marco as part of the Jollibee family, as he is a wonderful role model, especially to kids in this generation,” said Jollibee Vice President for Marketing Harvey Ong.

Kean talks about his #ChuckII Shanghai Launch experience

It was an exciting afternoon as Converse Ambassador Kean Cipriano talks about his  Chuck Taylor All Star II (Chuck II ) Shanghai launch experience together with Converse PH influencers Georgina Wilson and Julie Anne San Jose last August 15 at Pasig.

Kean Cipriano who practically  grew up with Chucks,  excitedly told the media that the new Chuck II has the most comfortable fit with the cushion that supports the arches. Converse is a part of his lifestyle, that he cant live without.

The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II sneaker retains the iconic Chuck Taylor All Star silhouette.  A Lunarlon sockliner adds cushioning and arch support. Micro-suede lining, premium canvas construction and a padded, non-slip tongue deliver superior comfort and durability. Molded eyelets add a premium touch. The embossed, screen-printed license plate and embroidered, star-centered ankle patch add striking depth and dimension to recognizable, classic details.

Celebrities Georgina Wilson, Kean Cipriano and Julie Anne San Jose flew in all the way to Shanghai, China recently for the launch of the Chuck II sneakers. The Chuck II is Converse’s response to aficionados hankering for more from the iconic brand. The unique experience from the momentous event resonated with all who were in attendance.

Georgina was more than thrilled to be part of the big launch.  Before leaving for Shanghai, Wilson expressed her great anticipation for the event via her Instagram account, “I cannot wait to get my hands on the Chuck II! Will be at the Asian launch in Shanghai on Monday!”

Participants immersed themselves fully in the most inventive way possible. “Converse definitely went all out with the unveiling of the Chuck II,” said Kean. He added, how “(the) launch stayed true to the core of the classic brand’s philosophy rooted on fans’ self-expression, authenticity and creative nature.” 

The venue prepared especially for the launch exuded a cool, industrial warehouse feel with a gallery finish. According to Kean, “When we entered the site, we were greeted with a wicked set-up.” Two rows of Chuck II were lined up for all participants from around Asia. “Everyone was just so eager to claim their kicks!” Georgina said. She added how the interactive dropdown ball display equipped with LED screens, which showcased the Chuck II’s innovative features, “wowed” her.

 Multi-talented Pop sweetheart Julie Anne was all smiles when she finally got to try out her new Chuck II’s. Her social media followers were all abuzz about her Instagram posts on the Chuck II launch. She says she immediately began snapping photos and taking selfies with her fellow attendees during the event, “I couldn’t resist. I kept on taking photos because I wanted to show everyone what an awesome time I was having!” 


Wearing their new pairs of sneakers, Julie Anne posed with Calllalily front man Kean Cipriano behind the Chuck II photo wall. Both celebrities couldn’t contain their enthusiasm, conscientiously documenting their Chuck II experiences after getting their hands on their new kicks. “Look!” Kean said as he lifted his right leg to show off his sneakers.

Guests got ready for more fun at the big event:  Clad in white hazmat suits, goggles and masks, Julie Anne laughed and said “Hey, it’s not everyday that I get to wear this kind of outfit. I’m ready to make a good mess over here!”

Meanwhile, Kean said, “everyone had tons of fun shooting green and black paint using the cool fire extinguishers and paint filled water balloons. It was riot!” 

Upon contact with the paint, awesome artwork by partner artists, renowned Philadelphia street painter Stephen Powers (ESPO) and graffiti artist KRINK were revealed on the surface.“Heaps of awesome! I wanted to keep on shooting on the walls until my tank ran out of paint. It was a refreshing experience,” Julie Anne said.

Each of the celebrities related how it was their first time to be part of such a solid and original event with great gusto.

“What I appreciated most was the collaborative aspect of the art mob event,” Georgina said.

Julie Anne’s bold statement solidified the event’s impact, “People from around the globe will definitely wanting a pair!” she said.

According to Kean, “(I) loved how everyone came together for the ‘refreshing and unique art experience’.” He added, “Converse provided a venue for engaging all guests with the spirit of self-expression intact in a “fun, cool and original way.”