Avida celebrates 25 years with Tunog Natin! Songs from Home

Johnoy Danao

I have been a Johnoy Danao fan dubbed as the "Philippines Best Kept Secret" for 2 years now,  I accidentally discovered him singing covers at DJ Mo Good Times radio show.  DJ Mo seemed to love him as he kept on featuring Johnoy on his podcast show, this was the time when DJ Mo was mending a broken heart.  After that I have been downloading his covers from time to time. Songs like Fix you, Cry, Someone like you, Marry Me, The Scientist,  and many more acoustic covers to his credit.  Its his throaty, sweet and appealing voice that hooked me listening to all those covers. When I learned that "Ikaw at Ako" was his original. I fell in love with this guy instantly.

I got an invite to Tunog Natin, Songs from Home partners with Avida  held at the Avida Showroom in Glorietta 4 last October 13, the launch was hosted by Tunog Natin Creative consultant  Jim Paredes and graced by Chris Cahilig, Princess Velasco, Project Officer Anjo Resurreccion, Producer Jonathan Ong and Avida Representatives Tess Tatco and Anne Jarra and my favorite Johnoy Danao who sang "Ikaw at Ako" to the delight of everyone.

 Avida celebrates 25 years by launching Tunog Natin! Songs from Home, which features OPM sang by their chosen artists with different arrangement. It also includes Avida’s anniversary soundtrack “Home is Here”, which is an original composition sung by  Johnoy Danao.

You can download  Tunog Natin and listen to the entire album at Spotify and Itunes.

Home is truly where the heart is, and there is nothing like home-grown music to stir your emotions and always transport you back to its familiar comfort. In celebration of the sound of inspiration in Original Pilipino Music (OPM), Avida launched the second edition of Tunog Natin! Songs from Home through Soundscape Sessions, an afternoon of sounds and socials held at the Avida Showroom in Glorietta 4.

The second edition of Tunog Natin! Songs from Home, featuring a collection of classic Original 
Pinoy Music performed by some of the country’s homegrown talents, was launched in line with 
Avida’s 25th anniversary celebration of Inspiring Lives. Pictured above are the people behind the 
project, (L-R) Tunog Natin artist Johnoy Danao, Tunog Natin Album Producer Jonathan Ong, 
Tunog Natin artist Princess Velasco, Avida Marketing Head Tess Tatco, Tunog Natin Creative 
Consultant Jim Paredes, and Tunog Natin Project Officer Anjo Resurreccion.


Much like the debut album, Tunog Natin! Songs from Home Volume 2 will again feature the passion and artistry of some of the best local artists of today and well-loved OPM songs with an emotional appeal that can transcend generations. Independent singer-songwriter Johnoy Danao gave attendees a taste of the uplifting music packed in the album during the launch. While, the creative team behind the masterpiece, award-winning composer and arranger Jonathan Ong and Jim Paredes, sat out for a bit of chat with the guests.

Tunog Natin! Sounds from Home is Avida’s contribution in promoting local music. Aside from the participation of veteran artists, the commemorative album also introduces promising talents that are bound to make a mark in the local music scene. It features renditions of popular OPMs from Jim Paredes, Bloomfields, Johnoy Danao, Moira Dela Torre, and Princess Velasco, to name a few.

The album is in line with Avida’s mission to keep the Filipino heritage alive, as part of its ongoing Inspired Living campaign, which extends support to the essential artistic foundations that make a community. And the second edition of Tunog Natin! could not have been more apt as Avida celebrates 25 years of inspiring possibilities, as it pays homage to the nation through music that connects us all.

In line with Avida’s 25th anniversary efforts to promote local talents, all the songs from the Tunog Natin! Vol. 2 album will be made available for listening and free download in local and international music portals like Spotify and iTunes.

Avida is also launching the album during its festive anniversary celebration on October 14, through a free Tunog Natin concert where select local artists will perform OPM hits. Tasty fare from food booths and great music await as the concert is open to the public 8PM onwards at 34th St. corner 9th Ave (beside Turf BGC) in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Avida will also put the spotlight on local artists through another public concert in November.

Get Ready Aldub Nation; Alden Richards is set to perform at CF Angeles

After the Anne Curtis, Annekapal successful concert at Casino Filipino, Angeles last August 20, CF tagline " We Never Stop" stand true to its commitment of giving pure entertainment to the CF Angeles people, thus they are bringing Alden Richards of Kalye Serye fame.  He is set to perform this coming December, get ready on that Aldub Nation!

Casino Filipino (CF) Angeles will continue to treat its patrons to star-studded shows beginning October 2015.

Among the country’s top celebrity performers who will be spotted at the Angeles casino branch are “It’s Showtime” host Vice Ganda (November 14), singer-song writer Jose Mari Chan (for the VIP Night on November 20), and the country’s undisputed concert king Martin Nievera (December 29).

According to Nievera, he is proud to have been chosen as one of the Filipino artists who will perform in Casino Filipino.  “After years of performing in some of the major casino resorts all over Las Vegas and the world, it’s about time I perform here at home,” he excitedly said.

Since it will be his first time to hold a show in CF, Nievera vows to “squeeze in as many of my 33 years of music as I can in one show.  It’s an honor to be added to Casino Filipino’s already very prestigious line-up of performers,” he added.

Besides Nievera, Vice Ganda and Jose Marie Chan, CF Angeles will also feature the MYMP Band on October 14, actress-comedienne K. Brosas (with a live band) on October 17, Luke Mejares on October 23, and KZ Tandingan on October 28.

In November, among the featured celebrity performers are The Company (November 4), Ivy Violan (November 11), Liezl Garcia (November 13), Vina Morales (November 18), Frenchie Dy (November 25) and Willie Nepomuceno (November 28).

Meanwhile, Aldub fans in Pampanga and northern Philippines will have one of the best Christmas gifts from CF Angeles come December 2, as Alden Richards, the “Pambansang Bae” holds a show at the branch together with former Sexbomb dancer Rochelle Pangilinan.

Comedians Le Chazz and AJ Tamiza will also bring the house down on December 16 with their unique brand of comedy while Randy Santiago will serenade casino patrons on December 23.  Jose Manalo and Wally Bayola, along with a live band, will also entertain the Angeles casino guests on December 11 while Erik Santos is slated to hold another exciting show in the branch on December 26.

Featuring a star-studded cast in its regular and celebrity shows is in line with CF Angeles’ launch of its ‘We Never Stop’ tagline last August.

After beefing-up its entertainment offerings and services, CF Angeles had also seen improved revenues and customer attendance.

“That was really our objective for launching a new slogan.  Since we introduced the ‘We Never Stop’ tagline in July, we offered big celebrity shows and people now frequent the casino.  Nag-invest tayo, maganda din naman ang naging balik,” said Branch Manager Redentor Rivera.

He added that when Anne Curtis held her Annekapal concert in CF Angeles last August 20, they recorded P13 million in revenues.  “The average we earn per day is just P8.4 million.  That day, it was P13 million.  August was really a record-breaking month for us.”

Customer attendance also grew by 16.08 percent in August compared to the same month last year from 76,000 to more than 88,000.

Rivera shared that quality entertainment shows greatly contributed to CF Angeles’ gaming operations revenue.  “Entertainment is a very effective marketing tool.  Like Las Vegas, they are also focused on entertainment.  That’s the trend.  We saw how effective it was so we did it here.”

Through celebrity shows, CF Angeles was able to develop new markets, Rivera explained.  “After watching the shows, some guests would go to the gaming area to play. And they come back after experiencing the fun and the thrill of winning.   Lately, we observed that there are many new faces especially in the Slot Machine area,”

Celebrity shows, said Rivera, not only benefit the casino but also the whole province of Pampanga.  “We became a provider of quality entertainment to the locals and guests. Even residents from Nueva Ecija, Bulacan and other nearby provinces in Central and Northern Luzon come to watch our shows here,” Rivera said.

“Gagawin naming maganda talaga ang Casino Filipino Angeles.  We will never stop creating quality entertainment and we will never stop providing our customers with wonderful experiences,” Rivera concluded. #

For more inquiries and other concerns, you may call CF-Angeles’ Customer Hotline at (045) 625-76-04 or the branch’s Marketing and Entertainment Section at (045) 625-75-97 local 218, 219 and 311.  Further, you may also like us on Facebook:  www.facebook.com/pagcor.artists

GM Redentor Rivera with Bong Quintana head of entertainment for Pagcor

Iza Calzado loves her expressions with #PondsAgeMiracle

Yes, I admit I am a skin care fiend for almost a decade now, I am always on the look out for that one moisturizer that would cover my insecurities, ie wrinkles, crows feet and that one line on my forehead. I make it appoint to invest on one good moisturizer that would cost an arm and a leg on my bank account.  I would rather buy that one miracle cream  than eat or buy make up. I believe that if you have a good skin to flaunt, you will need less of the make ups, a red lipstick would do the trick of brightening up your face though, but that is another story.

I discovered Ponds, a month after I resigned from my night job.  I told myself I have to cut on everything that would compromise my budget.  I googled skincare and from there, Ponds Miracle Age Cream with Retinol, makes you 10 years younger, appeared on my monitor. I bought the entire skincare from facial wash to night cream.

I swear on their Pond's Age Miracle Cell ReGEN Facial Foam. It has micro granules to slouch off dead skin cells, with just one wash, you could see and feel the difference already.

Pond's recently launched its newest Pond's celebrity endorser Ms. Iza Calzado at Axon, Green Sun last October 13. The event was hosted by Ms. Sarah Meir and graced by Pond's celebrity endorsers Chesca Kramer, Apples Aberin, Rizza Mananquil-Trillo, Agoo Bengzon and Vanessa Matsunaga who all have flawless skin and love their expressions despite the age and stress.

Dr Anna Palabyab gave her insights on how to achieve good skin by using Ponds Age Miracle Skin and not to worry about your expression such as lines and wrinkles.

Pond’s, the country’s number one skincare brand, has long been aware of the skin aging concerns of Filipinas. Through decades of continuous research and innovation through the Pond’s Institute, the iconic brand has addressed lines and wrinkles of millions of Filipinas to date.

Women are known to be expressive – they smile, they laugh, they cry at every milestone in their lives. However, a recent global study conducted by Pond’s showed that 78% of women hold their facial expressions back due to fear of being stereotyped and fear of their lines and wrinkles being seen in plain sight.

For Pond’s, expressions should leave impressions—not lines. And with Pond’s Age Miracle, women can freely express themselves, while forgetting the lines, allowing them to share their beautiful stories.

Dra Anna Palabyab, Pond’s resident skin care expert said, “People who repeatedly smile, frown, or squint will develop lines and wrinkles earlier than others who do not use these facial expressions often. Just like the muscles in our bodies, the more often we use them, the bigger and stronger they get! As we get older, we lose elasticity in our skin and wrinkles will from in the areas of the face that we usually use the most. These wrinkles usually form around the eyes, in the forehead, in between the brows, and around the mouth.”

But the good news is that, according to Dra. Palabyab, with the right kind of prevention, women can express as much as they want and not worry about the lines. “The key is in using products that have Retinol, as it stimulates the production of collagen and elastin to keep skin elastic and less prone to lines and wrinkles,” she added.

Forget the lines with Ponds Age Miracle
Enter Pond’s Age Miracle, a hardworking anti-aging skincare range that leaves skin looking up to 10 years younger. Pond’s Age Miracle features gold standard ingredients in age management in its Intelligent Pro-Cell Complex. It has CLA and AHA, which work hand in hand to exfoliate old skin cells and stimulate production of new, younger cells. It also has Retinol, the clinically-proven anti-aging ingredient that maintains elasticity of the skin by preventing rapid break down of collagen. Lastly, it has unique Retinol Boosters which prolong the effectiveness of Retinol – by as much as 3x! With all of these combined, Pond’s Age Miracle can make you forget the lines and make you bring out your beautiful expressions without any fear.

The Pond’s Age Miracle Expression of Beautiful Stories campaign also launched the brand’s newest ambassador: renowned actress and host Ms. Iza Calzado. Iza shared, “I strongly believe that women should express themselves and not worry about the lines that expressions may cause. Rather, be proud that you have experienced countless emotions in life. That is true wisdom! Be glad that you are able to feel and express yourself. There is nothing more liberating than being able to express your emotions with authenticity! Let Ponds Age Miracle take care of the lines and wrinkles so women’s expressions are worry-free.”

Like Iza, love your expressions, forget the lines! Look up to 10 years younger with Pond’s Age Miracle. Tell us your beautiful stories with #LoveMyExpressions and #PondsAgeMiracle in your posts.

Ponds Age Miracle comes in a full range of products starting off with Pond’s Age Miracle Facial Foam which aids in the removal of dead skin cells; Pond’s Age Miralce Day Cream with SPF 15 PA++ to moisturize skin and protect it from the aging rays of the sun and Ponds Age Miracle Deep Action Night Cream that renews skin cells while you sleep. Highly specialized products are also available such as the Pond’s Age Miracle Dual Eye Cream which helps remove puffiness and dark circle AND Pond’s Age Miracle BB Cream SPF 30 PA++ which conceals age spots while treating lines and wrinkles from within.

Ponds Age Miracle products are available in leading supermarkets and department stores near you. Know more about the products by visiting the Pond’s Institute in your favorite malls.

OFW families get a chance to reunite this holiday with #CherryChristmas

There is really no place like home. I have been an OFW once and imagine the sadness and longing that I felt for my loved ones all those year. Let alone along the christmas season, I remember celebrating noche buena with my sister, all by ourselves at the condo where we used to live. It was silent and eerie, the loneliest christmas of my life.  We missed the christmas traditions.  The morning after christmas,  we attended the mass roamed and shopped at the mall until closing time.  All I could think of back then is home and the family I left behind which made me realized why I left them in the first place. Such is the agony OFWs have been feeling when theyre not around their loved ones.

Cherry Mobile recently launch its Cherry Christmas promo where OFWs can fly home for free.  The event was graced by its newest Cherry Mobile Ambassador Piolo Pascual and hosted by Samantha Purvor held at New World Hotel last October 9.

This Christmas season, Cherry Mobile fulfills the deepest wishes of several of our OFWs and reunites them with their families through the Cherry Christmas promo where OFWs can fly home for free. The promo is open to all Filipino active Facebook users who have a family member working abroad.

Maynard Ngu, president of Cherry Mobile, adds, “One thing holds true to every OFW out there, if they all had a choice, they would never leave their families. I know that they would do everything just to enjoy Noche Buena with their loved ones, to open gifts with their kids, to celebrate Mass with their family and friends, and to revel in the other Christmas traditions. So we would like to gift them with this opportunity. ”

Brand ambassador Piolo Pascual shares.“For our OFWs, the happiest time of the year is also sometimes the loneliest. I saw firsthand while I travel abroad how much Filipinos yearn for their home and families. There really is no place like home. For those who live in the Philippines, we are happy to give and receive gifts, but deep inside, there’s no greater joy than being with family. I’m proud to be part of a brand that supports, connects, and encourages the Filipino family to be together,”

Connecting families and helping bridge distances since 2009, Cherry Mobile has always put to heart the needs of the Filipino, especially OFWs – whether it’s designing quality mobile products or creating programs that uplift the lives of their consumers.

This season, through the #CherryChristmas promo, Cherry Mobile rewards the hard work and sacrifices of our unsung heroes – the OFWs.


“Cherry Mobile, the leading mobile phone brand in the country that values your lifestyle, has always put the Filipino first, and so it is with great pride and pleasure that we bring together the Filipino family on the most important day of the year,” ends Kat Arceo-Ocampo, Cherry Mobile Marketing Head. “Please do join and spread the joy of Christmas!”

For the complete mechanics of the #CherryChristmas promo, visit their website and Facebook.

"Weekend at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar with Lani Misalucha in Harana"

       

HAVE an extraordinary weekend at the country's only heritage resort by the sea, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, on October 31, 2015 as Lani Misalucha serenades their guest for an enchanted evening of music and memories in Harana.

World class Filipino artist, concert performer, scintillating chanteuse, diva of the highest order - these are some of the words often used to describe the one and only Lani Misalucha, adored by many as Asia's Nightingale.

In the late 90's Misalucha started her reign. She sang the song  "Ang Iibigin ay Ikaw" (written by Jimmy Borja) which was a finalist at the Metro Manila Popular Music Festival and later received the Awit Award for Record of the Year.

She recorded an album "More than I Should" (Alpha Records) with carrier single of the same title written by Bodjie Dasig. The album included Misalucha's cover of Fifth Dimension's "Somebody Warm Like Me" . The entire album earned 12 Katha Award nominations.

Misalucha won the Minuro Endo Best Interpreter/Singer Award at the 3rd Asian Song Festival. Her piece entitled "Handle with Care" (written by Gideon Jungee Marcelo) won silver in the Best Original Song category.

 
In 1999, Misalucha moved to Viva Records and her album, with carrier single "Tunay na Mahal" (written by Freddie Saturno), made the charts and turned gold, later receiving the Awit Award for Best Ballad Recording, Awit Award for Best Performance by a Female Recording Artist, and Katha Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.

That year as well, her cover of the torch song, "You Don't Have To Say You Love Me" topped the Philippine charts and became a national anthem of hopless romanticsin the same year.

Her other iconic hits include Vehnee Saturno's "Ang Lahat Ng Ito Ay Para Sa Iyo", Jimmy Borja's "Bukas Na Lang Kita Mamahalin," and Liza Diy's "Tila"

The Philippines' Pride also became the first Asian to headline in a Main Showroom of the Las Vegas Strip, performing with Hawaii's Society of Seven at the Jubilee Theatre of Bally's and at the Main Showroom of the Flamingo.
         
Misalucha already had 8 studio albums, 4 live albums and 3 compilation albums which were loved and supported by the listening public.
         
Lani is here now to perform in Harana, the one-of-a-kind concert happens at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar's newly opened Hotel de Oriente Convention Centre, a replica of the first ever-luxurious hotel in Manila.

Aside from Misalucha's world-class performance, guests will enjoy a four-course dinner in the midst of the picturesque hall featuring outstanding Filipino crafts and artworks.
         
Spread over 400 hectares, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar features a collection of Spanish Colonial buildings and stone houses (bahay na bato in Tagalog), planned to resemble a settlement reminiscent of the period.
                     
This will be the first huge musical event at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, a history-in-the-making as it opens grounds for grand meetings, exhibits and shows with Hotel de Oriente Convention Centre. Its two large venues, Manila and Binondo Halls, can each accommodate up to 1,000 guests.

 Musical director of Harana is Mell Villena. Musical accompaniment provided by the AMP Band.

Tickets for two are available for only Php 20,000.00 with overnight room accommodation for October 31-November 1, dinner, set breakfast, guided heritage tour, and pool and beach access. A group of four will get the same perks for only P35,000.00. Also available are tickets for the dinner and show for only Php 10,000.00 per person.

Book your tickets now via Ticketworld and at selected major National Bookstore branches, selected Robinsons Department Stores, in Ayala Malls - Greenbelt I and Trinoma Cinema Box Office, and at Resorts World Manila Box Office.

Visit www.ticketworld.com.ph or call 891-9999, 0917-550-6997 (Globe) and 999-954-5922(Smart) for inquiries and reservations. You may also call Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar - Manila sales and reservation office at (63-2) 3325338 and (63-2) 3325286.  Limited seats available.

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar is located in Bagac, Bataan, easily accessible via NLEX and SCTEX. It is a project of New San Jose Builders, Inc. and managed by Asian Grand Legacy Hotels Corp.

GOLDILOCKS RAISES THE LEVEL OF RICE TOPPINGS

Rice has always been a staple in the Filipino diet. No matter where you are in the Philippines –  regardless of your age or social status – at least one meal a day is composed of a delicious viand and a heaping serving of hot rice.

It is this love for rice that has inspired Goldilocks Foodshop to come up with their latest line of pork rice topping dishes, which are affordably priced and prepared in the way that only Goldilocks can. The new pork rice topping menu comes in delicious variants including pork gravy rice toppings, the pork teriyaki rice topping, and the sweet & spicy pork rice topping meals. All of these are conveniently priced at under P100 per order.


The good news is that these delectable pork dishes are part of the ongoing Buena Mano Monday promo of Goldilocks Foodshop. Every Monday of this month, customers who order any of the pork topping meals will receive a free 12 oz. coke. Try the new Goldilocks Pork Rice Toppings today and taste what it truly is to be Pinoy! Follow Goldilocks on Twitter or Instagram at @GoldiclocksPH, on the Goldilocks Facebook page, or at the official Goldilocks website at www.goldilocks.com.ph

Nuvali stages "Dirt Weekend" at Nuvali, Laguna

There is something about mountain biking that thrills the riders.  When you descent upon rocks, trails, roots and rough terrain, the satisfaction never ends there, the fact that you have mastered the road and trails gives you the healthy edge among others. It is the best workout so far, as you use your muscles for pedalling and maneuvering.

To those who are joining the Dirt Weekend on November 6-8 , pack lightly and don’t ever place anything in your pack that could jeopardize you in the event of a crash. Move your body and shift a lot, and support yourself with food, pump and multi-tool.

Nuvali launches Dirt Weekend last October 13 at Mind Museum. The event was hosted by Frank Garcia and Fox representative Aica Danas.

Nuvali has announced that it will be staging this year’s Philippine qualifying leg of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Mountain Bike (MTB) World Championship at the annual “Dirt Weekend” on November 6, 7 and 8 at Nuvali in Laguna. UCI is the international governing body on sports cycling and competitive cycling events. Started in 2009, Dirt Weekend is now recognized as one of the country’s premium racing events among professional MTB riders and enthusiasts alike.

“We are honored that Nuvali is hosting this prestigious international cycling event. Biking is part of the environmentally-responsible culture that we are cultivating in Nuvali. We continuously develop programs that are attuned to the local biking community - programs that promote a healthier lifestyle by encouraging biking as a mode of transportation and recreation. Also, we would like to serve as a platform for globally competitive athletes from the Philippines to get a chance to compete in the global stage,” said John Estacio, Nuvali General Manager.

Nuvali is a 2,290-hectare masterplanned mixed-use development that straddles the cities of Sta. Rosa, Cabuyao and Calamba in Laguna. It is Ayala Land’s largest estate development to date with approximately 50% of the whole development dedicated to green and open spaces. Through the years, it has become a notable stomping ground for outdoor adventure enthusiasts via its nature amenities such as the 35-kilometer mountain bike and running trail. It also features a multi-functional lake, hiking paths, and a Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary. To get to Nuvali, one can get off the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) at the Mamplasan, Sta. Rosa, Eton-Greenfield, Silangan and Canlubang exits. Nuvali is also accessible via public buses that ply to and from the estate from major centers like Makati, Bonifacio Global City and Balibago.

Dirt Weekend will feature four MTB races, each requiring a unique set of mountain biking skills, throughout a three-day period of non-stop festivities revolving around the popular cycling sport. The main event is the UCI Cross Country Marathon (XCM) World Series qualifying race which enables top finishers to move up to the 2016 Cross Country Marathon World Championship in France. The XCM course on Nuvali runs for 70 kilometers and is riddled with technical descents as well as rocky paths and obstacles, designed to mimic a mountain terrain.

 The UCI Cross Country Olympic (XCO) is similar to the XCM but shorter at 35 kilometers. The XCO is a “Registered Class 3” UCI race that lets elite riders earn UCI points. The Four Cross Race is a gravity or downhill event that features four riders racing at the same time through a challenging BMX-like trail of jumps, drops and obstacles, with the top finisher proceeding to the next round. The Dirt Weekend Cross Country Race is Nuvali’s signature cycling event that draws over 1,000 riders yearly to the estate in an exhilarating dash around its 35-kilometer dirt trail.

 “This year, we are expecting over 5,000 visitors to Nuvali for the Dirt Weekend, including 1,500 riders. We strive to make Dirt Weekend an enjoyable gathering place for competitive bikers and fun riders by staging challenging races that cater to all skill levels, as well as entertaining fringe activities such as a bike expo and food fair for all,” said Estacio.

In the weeks leading up to Dirt Weekend, bike enthusiasts can participate in special activities designed to build the momentum for the grand three-day event. On October 17 and 18, Ayala Malls Solenad in Nuvali will hold a bike expo at the Solenad Activity Park. The outdoor-themed premium shopping complex is one of Nuvali’s newest leisure attractions featuring new dining and shopping spots, bike lanes, spacious walkways, a fully-packed playground and pocket gardens.
On the same weekend, Nuvali will also hold a bike clinic designed to introduce newbies to the sport of mountain biking.

Over the years, Dirt Weekend has created massive ripples across the MTB community as a leading pioneer in staging world-class cycling events, a testament of its enthusiasm and support to the Philippine cycling scene. In 2012, Dirt Weekend summoned hundreds of riders around the country with the staging of the first Enduro Race in the Philippines. The following year, it created another round of excitement among dirt riders when Nuvali became the venue for the first UCI Philippine MTB National Championship and the first Philippine MTB Marathon National Championship, garnering over 1,000 participants in attendance.

“As we all know motor vehicles account for a substantial portion of greenhouse gas emission. If we are to reverse or mitigate the effects of climate change, we must find an alternative and more sustainable means of transportation. That’s why in Nuvali, when we plan the whole estate, we made sure biking is a priority. We have put together infrastructure that will allow such. We have dedicated bike lanes, we are starting with our bike share program and we have also established dedicated off road biking and running trails.” concluded Estacio.

Nuvali is a complete self-supporting eco-community that is home to 12,000 residential units, two business process outsourcing (BPO) buildings, a leisure shopping mall, and two prestigious schools. A world-class health facility is set to rise on the estate grounds by the second quarter of 2016.

An OFW Sails to New Wealth Horizons

Christopher Cervantes was only twenty one years when he left his family to travel the world and work on an oil and chemical tanker ship. Later on after marrying and having kids with the woman of his dreams, he hoped to pay for the education of his children, and help his family live a comfortable life. He rose through the ship ranks, and soon became captain of the ship. As his salary began to increase, however, he noticed that the money he was sending home was not.


“I feel that OFWs, with most of us coming from a difficult financial background, aren’t used to handling large sums of cash. We’re overwhelmed by the sudden inflow of money,” Cervantes observed. “This is why we tend to buy the latest gadgets, go on  outrageous shopping sprees, and splurge on leisure and recreation as if there were no tomorrow,” he further mused.

Eventually, Cervantes realized he had to take a more long-term and responsible approach to his finances. He began to read finance books such as “Rich Dad, Poor Dad”, and started to talk to his crewmates about wealth management. In the midst of this newfound perspective, he arrived at one crucial realization: given the rising costs of education and living expenses, a high salary does not guarantee future security.

Despite all the studying Cervantes did on the ship, however, he still had no practical knowledge of how and where to begin investing. He was particularly interested in the stock market, but found it daunting. “At the time, I thought the stock market was only for wealthy businessmen in well-tailored suits. I was hesitant about investing my family’s money on a system I didn’t know much about,” he explained.

It seemed like divine intervention when Cervantes ran into a Philam Life financial advisor at a local fast food restaurant. The financial advisor then convinced the ship captain about the wisdom of life insurance and long-term financial planning, and soon Cervantes was passing on the same knowledge to his crewmates.

“I organized a regular group on the ship every Sunday,” Cervantes narrated. “My goal was to remind them of their original intentions for going abroad in the first place – to provide for their family. And I want to help them realize that the best way to do this is to think long-term, invest in stocks, equity funds, and life insurance plans to secure their family’s financial freedom,” he added. 

Cervantes took this dedication for financial education even further by becoming a Registered Financial Planner. He noticed that although the majority of OFWs plan to retire by the age of 45, a good number end up working overseas even after becoming senior citizens, mainly due to poor financial planning. Chris on the other hand was able to retire at the age of 39.
“It really is my passion to teach people financial literacy. I believe that it is something we should all have, and to eliminate the misconceptions that only the rich can invest and be wise about their money.”

Nowadays, Cervantes holds regular financial literacy programs at his office in Philam Life Cubao. He is also the author of “Financial Planning in the Fast Changing World,”  

“The Seed Money,” and the runner-up in Angat Pilipinas’s OFW Advocate of the Year award.
“My life would be very different if I were still on that boat,” said Cervantes. “Philam Life gave me such a big opportunity to turn my financial mind-set upside down, and it has changed my family’s life for the better.  I encourage all my clients to do the same: invest in stocks, bonds and life insurance plans now.” he concluded.

To find out more about Philam Life’s Balikbayani Program, contact a Philam Life Kabalikat Financial Advisor or call 528-2000 or visit www.philamlife.com

Relive the BEATLES experience on Oct 17

 The Act you've known all these years,  The JOHN PAUL GEORGE & RINGO, the  BRITAIN'S FINEST as the BEATLES will be holding their first concert in the PH on October 17 at The Theatre  Solaire. 

The Beatles were more than just a bunch of hit songs.
The Look, The Sound, The Culture and most significantly the ENERGY of the youth in the 1960 was all ignited by the coming of the Fab Four from Liverpool.

BRITAIN'S FINEST is an ALL STAR CAST handpicked by the HOLLYWOOD producers at MUSIC ZIRCONIA to be the standard that all other BEATLES tributes will strive for. The cast as served in other well known acts such as The Fab Four & ABBEY road to name a few.

Recent clients include KNOTTS BERRY FARM & THE LAWRENCE WELK PERFORMING ARTS CENTER.

Our John Lennon was recently cast in a major motion picture as a JOHN in the BEATLESA , soon to be released by MIRAMAX.

If you want to experience the best Beatles tribute today, you won’t want to miss Britain's Finest.
Britain's Finest transcends far above other Beatles Tributes due to their precise attention to detail. With uncanny, note-for-note live renditions of Beatles’ classics such as “I Want To Hold Your Hand,” “Yesterday,” She Loves You," “Twist And Shout,” “Hello Goodbye", Sgt. Pepper's," “Something,” and “Hey Jude,” Britain's Finest will make you think and feel you are watching the real thing.

Their good looks, witty personality, and amazing stage performances include three costume changes representing every era of the Beatles career, and this admiring and faithful tribute to the Beatles has amazed audiences nationally and internationally. Britain's Finest is truly the complete Beatles experience.

THE COMPLETE BEATLES EXPERIENCE

Britain’s Finest is an experience unlike any other. You may have seen Beatles tribute acts before, but this time you’ll be in awe of the enthusiasm and energy for which they are recognized and remembered. After every performance, audience members are struck at first by the incredible recreation of those oh-so-familiar songs the world has come to love, but then become mesmerized by the off-the-cuff humor and the cheeky banter that takes place between songs.
If you haven’t seen Britain’s Finest in action, you’ve been missing out on a terrific show that brings families and friends together for a wonderful time filled with singing and joy. The appeal for the music transcends all audiences of any age. You’ll notice that the chemistry between the lads is apparent to all who watch and is contagious to say the least.
If you’re a Beatles fan and have always wished you could see them, Britain’s Finest may be just what you’re looking for. If you’ve seen the REAL Beatles and wish you could relive the magic, then Britain’s Finest wants to help transport you back to that wonderful moment in time. Their youthful appearance and their uncanny resemblance to the Lads themselves will keep you smiling throughout the show.



Britain’s Finest was featured twice on AXS TV’s “The
World’s Greatest Tribute Bands”, they held the top four
spots in the Volume 5 compilation song chart of the same name available on iTunes. On Chris Carter’s Sunday morning’s “Breakfast with the Beatles” show on KLOS 95.5,

Chris Carter said, “Interviewing Britain’s Finest must have
been what it would’ve been like interviewing the Beatles”, which was a huge compliment. Britain’s Finest was also featured in an article by Niki Payne on CBS Los Angeles, Best Tribute bands in LA. She wrote, “Britain’s Finest is as close to the real deal as you may ever find in this lifetime”. Lee DeCarlo, recording engineer for John Lennon’s “Double Fantasy” album said after a performance at a private event, “ You guys are really great, you remind me so much of the lads”.

Britain’s Finest has performed at venues like: Knott’s Berry Farm, The Lawrence Welk Theater, Beatles Fair - San Diego, Summer Concert’s in the park, Hard Rock Café - Las Vegas, Encore, House of Blues - San Diego, Del Mar Fab Fair 2014, Speaking Rock Entertainment Center, San Felipe Hollywood Casino, Fountain Inn Performing Arts Center and many more.

Going Beyond Education

Traditional methods of education have naturally produced some of the brightest minds in the history of man. However, just as every field needs to be upgraded and modernized to suit the demands of future generations, so too does our technique of instruction. The challenge of tomorrow’s students calls for invention, innovation, imagination, and decision. The pioneers of this new frontier will certainly rely less and less on rote memorization and the mere storage of facts and information.

From the 1800s until today, countless hours are still spent on silent (book-based) learning and repetitive drills. While it certainly served its purpose at a time when standardization was the goal, numerous international experts on child psychology, education, human development, and sociology agree that it has become quite outdated.

One of the leading “evangelists” of progressive, experienced-based, and student-centered education in the Philippines is Ms. Sandy Arellano, who runs the Montessori De San Juan School. Her school recognizes that each student, as an individual, is different from all others. As such, a thorough analysis of the different factors that affect their education (e.g. age, learning style, inclinations, background, personality, etc.) is a critical element to how they teach the child. This allows Montessori de San Juan to help kids unlock their true potential without rigid and standardized structures.

“We recognize that good academic performance is merely the natural result of a happy, motivated, and well-adjusted student. Our practice focuses on the cause, rather than the effect,” Sandy explained, when asked how their students regularly perform better than their peers from so-called “bigger schools”. Indeed, it is this track record of excellence that has put them squarely on the country’s academic map.

Observing visitors are likewise surprised to see how seamlessly one subject is integrated into another, thus allowing for a richer, more cohesive understanding by the students. Whereas subjects are typically tackled one after another in traditional schools (e.g. math first, then english, then science, all taken in isolation), areas of study are interwoven in Montessori De San Juan, with the subjects purposely linked to one another. It’s not unexpected, therefore, to see a grade-schooler write a fictional narrative about a trip to Mars, complete with accurate scientific facts about the planet, and a computation of how long it took to get them there based on their average speed.

Moreover, Montessori de San Juan believes in formation beyond education. “We understand that the time our students spend with us is limited, therefore we endeavor to build a strong and lasting foundation for lifelong learning,” she emphasized. “Apart from developing their intellectual capabilities, building their character is equally important. Our students are not only provided with an exemplary set of academic tools, but the wisdom, integrity, and compassion to use it for the benefit of others,” Sandy concluded.

Montessori De San Juan now accepts applicants up to Senior High School. To learn more about Montessori de San Juan and discover why it is fast-becoming the most talked-about school in Metro Manila, call 239-1102/725-6306 or visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Montessori De San Juan

Celebrate Northern Cuisine at MarQuee Mall’s Big Bite!

Food fans gear up for MarQuee Mall’s Big Bite! The Northern Food Festival on October 16, 17 and 18.

In partnership with Department of Tourism, Department of Trade and Industry, Angeles City Tourism Office, North Luzon Expressway and Lifestyle Network, Big Bite delights festival goers with food markets, "Sisig Festival", cooking demos, culinary cook-offs and live entertainment.
Now on its third year, the gastronomic feast will feature over 100 food merchants from Region I,II, III and the Cordillera Administrative Region with regional delights from condiments, spices to coffee and jams to local favorites such as the Ilocos empanada, bagnet, pastillas and longganisa.

Big Bite's main event highlight is the “Sisig Festival”. Sisig is the quintessential Kapampangan dish, traditionally made of pork parts, mixed with spices, served on a sizzling plate with a side of calamansi and chili peppers. Northern regions take part in the celebration by cooking their own version of sisig such as the bangus sisig from Pangasinan and dinakdakan from Ilocos. The “Sisig Festival” is a culinary spectacle of regional cuisine at its best.

Boosting tourism in the North, Big Bite reinforces the city’s growing reputation as the culinary capital of the Philippines and is part of Angeles City’s Fiestang Kuliat, a month-long fiesta celebration in the city.

Visitors will also see culinary masters Chef Sau del Rosario, Lifestyle Network’s “Chef Next Door” Jonas Ng and Center for Asian Culinary Studies founder Chef Gene Gonzales whip up northern favorites in the live cooking demonstrations.

Competition heats up in the three-day cook-off among top culinary schools from the region.
So come and celebrate the biggest gastronomical festival in MarQuee Mall’s Big Bite: The Northern Food Festival on October 16-18,2015.

For more information, contact (045) 304-0110 to 11. Like and follow MarQuee Mall’s social networking sites, Facebook: facebook.com/MarQueeMall, Twitter: @MarQueetweets and instagram: @iloveMarQueemall.