Acer smartphones keep up with the yuppies

Back in the day, a pager (also known as a beeper) is the only gadget that would connect you to your friends, superiors and the parents. It is a wireless telecommunication device that receives and displays voice and written messages.  That little gadget has earned its bragging right, so to say. Fast forward to the now generation, where everyone has a tablet or an android phones to keep up with the times. The yuppies nowadays are all equipped with the gadgets that matched up their lifestyle.

Yuppie- is a well-paid young middle-class professional who works in a city job and has a luxurious lifestyle.

Acer recently launched Acer Liquid X2, Acer Liquid Z630, Acer Liquid Z530 and Acer Liquid Z330 together with its Acer celebrity ambassador Toni Gonzaga last Oct 22 at the Metro tent, Metrowalk, Pasig. The launch was presented in a mini show depicting the lives of the yuppies at the present time and how Acer smart phones keep up with their lifestyle.

With the growing demands of the contemporary work environment, one must be well-equipped with the right gadgets that simplify everyday tasks. Young professionals of today live flexible and fast-paced lives and they are always on the look-out for a companion that can keep up with their lifestyle whether at work or at play.

“Acer understands this need for gadgets that do not only deliver impressive performance but are also friendly to your hard-earned peso,” expresses Manuel Wong, General Manager of Acer Philippines. “That is why we are always at the forefront of the smartphone race in the Philippines with innovative models,” he adds.

The new line of Acer smartphones—the Acer Liquid X2, Acer Liquid Z630, Acer Liquid Z530 and Acer Liquid Z330—are all designed with the needs of the young working force in mind. Efficient, powerful and budget-friendly, these devices are sure to match the lifestyle of a hardworking and spontaneous yuppie.

Running on 1.3GHz octa-core to ensure smooth and seamless processing, Acer Liquid X2 is definitely a powerhouse to watch out for. Ready to keep you going all day, Liquid X1 ends power struggles with its massive battery life of 4000mAh. Never worry connecting with colleagues or friends with this gadget’s Triple SIM support. Complemented by 13MP of Rear and front camera, taking an OOTD photo with the Liquid X2 before going to work should be perfect and hassle-free.
With a battery life that can last up 10 hours of talk time, Acer Liquid Z630 makes for a tough contender. Designed to pace with the challenging projects in the office, Liquid Z630 boasts a 1.3 GHz quad-core. Research becomes a piece of cake as this LTE-ready smartphone provides a 5.5-inch (1280x720) high-definition screen.

Storing your big files in your phone? Acer Liquid Z530 got you covered with its 16-gb memory. Review your documents on Liquid Z530 without worrying about storage problems. Capture important information in meetings with its wide-angle 8-megapixel rear camera. Liquid Z530 supports shortcuts that let you access voice calling, cameras and music playbacks with just quick and simple swipe gestures.

Lastly, Acer Liquid Z330 turns heads with its stunning display. With IPS technology, wide viewing of photos and multimedia on its 4.5" display proves to be a delightful experience. Eye-strain from prolonged screen viewing is reduced by Liquid Z330’s Acer BluelightShield™ technology. Looking for the perfect music to listen to while commuting to work? Enjoy a fuller audio experience with its DTS Studio Sound™ technology. With a wider sound range, you’ll hear more details and clearer vocals when listening to music or watching videos.

“Nowadays, the Philippine market is more aware of what they want in gadgets. They enjoy smart devices with features that help them be more dynamic and productive. Acer provides a wide range of smartphones that assure solid performance and quality without hurting the consumers’ pockets,” Wong concludes.

Know more about Acer smartphones and other Acer devices by visiting www.acer.com.ph. Like Acer Philippines Facebook page (www.facebook.com/AcerPH) and follow @AcerPhils on Twitter for more updates.

Gatorade launches ambassadors Chris Banchero, Alyssa, Jeron and Mika in its 50th anniversary

Gatorade Ambassador Chris Banchero

Gatorade never fails to fill up my thirst when Im at the gym, because its better than water and has electrolytes to hydrate you up.  My favorite is Gatorade Blue Bolt, the taste reminds me of childhood and summer. It has the right amount of sweetness that helps your body recover.

Gatorade recently celebrate its 50th anniversary fueling local and international athletes of this generation. The line up of local sports ambassadors who graced its anniversary, UAAP volleyball superstars Alyssa Valdez from the Ateneo Lady Eagles and Mika Reyes from the De La Salle Lady Spikers together with basketball hotshots Chris Banchero of the Alaska Aces  with the exception of  Jeron Teng of the De La Salle Green Archers,  played with media guests.

“Coming from our 50th anniversary wherein we celebrated Gatorade’s legacy of fueling local and international sports’ greatest moments, we now want to focus on empowering a new breed of athletes and game changers,” Pepsico Philippines Marketing Manager for Hydration Tony Atayde said. “Alyssa, Mika, Chris and Jeron are top athletes who know the value of working hard to stay in peak form and understand that games aren’t won on the court but in the gym and practice venues. We’re excited to see them inspire more people to pursue active lifestyles and understand the value of proper hydration.”

Now my favorite Gatorade Sports drink has its new variant flavor and color which was officially launched last October 22 together with the top local ambassadors. The orange-and-grapefruit-flavor based White Lightning is now my favorite Gatorade drink next to Gatorade Bolt Blue.

Where does greatness begin?

Gatorade believes that it begins with hard work—the kind with no shortcuts, the kind that’s relentless and that will make you ache and sweat. Whether the goal is to finish a 21K half marathon, climb a mountain peak, or just feel physically stronger overall, preparing yourself in the gym and constantly working to improve your game is key to winning on game day.

And with this kind of hard work, proper hydration is crucial to be able to push forward and grow stronger.

With a refreshing, light orange-grapefruit flavor, White Lightning is formulated with non-carbonated water that does not cause stomach discomfort; 6% carbohydrates which research has shown to be the optimal level in promoting absorption and providing energy to working muscles; electrolytes for rapid rehydration and minerals to help prevent cramps.

Gatorade Ambassador Alyssa Valdez from the Ateneo Lady Eagles

Atayde added, “You don’t have to be a pro athlete to benefit from proper hydration. For as long as you move and you sweat, your body needs to be properly hydrated so you continue to work towards achieving your full potential. We’re confident that our new variant and our new ambassadors will help us reinforce that message.”

Developing a discerning taste for coffee

Back in the day, coffee was exclusive to the parents,  they didnt want us to drink/sip coffee, for some reason we dont know and never bothered to ask.  But if the parents discover that coffee has antioxidants then, they would have changed their mind.

Beer was my second drink that I grew up with (aside from tap water), I never drink sodas and juices because I find them sweet.  I occasionally drink Earl Grey's because lemon green tea or any green tea for that matter was not available during my younger days.   Believe it or not, I got a formal sip of coffee when I hit my 30s.  This was when I joined a dance competition for our department. Beer was out of sight, so I got myself a cup of coffee from a friend's kitchen. I remember it was a Folgers, I mixed it with brown sugar and drank from my first cup. It was I should say memorable. I tasted coffee not as bitter but with a hint of tea and relaxing at that.

Conlins Coffee Company COO, Q Grader Eric Lim talked us to how to appreciate coffee, its quality and origin using his product Bluenotes and Artisans and explained "premium coffee" from cherry beans first crack, medium roast to dark roast,  last October 20 at Alessi, BHS.

Conlins Coffee Company is the first of its kind to introduce the concept of “premium coffee” in the Philippines, and to make customers understand that not all coffees are the same. "Before, the concept of coffee was very basic—you had instant coffee, you had brewed coffee,” said licensed coffee Q grader and Conlins COO, Eric Lim.  People drank coffee and went to coffee shops, but they lacked a deeper appreciation and understanding of the beverage.

Conlins is also the first coffee company in the country to be ISO-certified. Aside from having the largest variety of coffee, they make sure that the quality of the coffee is always consistent.

Conlins Coffee Company is a full-service coffee company that offers roasted coffee beans, ground coffee, and customized blends with use of beans sourced from all over the world. Aside from their coffee line, the company is also the exclusive retailer of world class coffee equipment in the country.

Aside from helping people appreciate and find a deeper understanding of coffee, Conlins Coffee Company has also always been about giving people options. “I want to make sure that if you want light, medium, dark coffee, or whatever origin you want, it’s available here,” said Eric. Their company offers over 20 varieties of origins available from around the world, and of course, also offers the blended coffees. “You’ll surely find at least one that you like here,” said Eric. “Each coffee also speaks to each individual; he added that it’s in finding the coffee that is right for you. it’s about finding your voice, in a world of coffee,” he said.

Conlins products, Bluenotes and Artisans coffees, can be used as tools to help in creating a deeper understanding of coffee. Bluenotes coffee offers 100% single-origin Arabica beans. "Each origin of coffee has something unique to offer; coffee from Sumatra gives a very different cup profile from coffees originating from Brazil or Ethiopia. The origin of your coffee is only one of the many aspects that affect the coffee’s flavor profile.” explains Eric.

Many factors are taken into account of when looking for “your” coffee. Aside from the origin of the bean, roast color, grind size and preparation methods also add to the journey of discovering the coffee that best suits your taste and lifestyle.

Artisans coffee on the other hand, is about the art and science of how coffee is crafted. This line of coffee allows the master roaster to create and meld flavors of varying origins into a very satisfying cup. While Bluenotes focuses on strictly single-origin, Artisans coffee is all about taking different coffee elements and creating a masterful coffee experience.

These two coffee variants of Conlins has something to offer for different types of coffee lovers. Go—getters and jet- setters will go for Bluenotes and its “taste of the world," as it offers an excellent, straight forward taste of coffee. its incredible flavor and aroma from its single origins will surely wake up and satisfy the taste buds of today modern global citizen.

Artisans Coffee on the other hand, may be preferred by coffee aficionados who are immersed in the worlds of lifestyle and the arts. The harmony of flavors that are created by the crafting and blending of beans offers unique flavors that will surely impress the most discerning palates.

Serenity Syrups: Inspiring freedom and creativity

Serenity Syrups, on the other hand, is about having the freedom to have what you want. “The syrup is there to enhance the coffee experience,” explained Eric. “It’s to add flavors to things you don’t normally have, like an almond latte. The nice thing about Serenity is that it’s not limited to coffee. You can be as creative as you want.” One can make creme caramels, flavored sparkling sodas, and flavored margaritas from these syrups. Serenity syrups can even be used for creating baked goods, among others. Eric also said that using Serenity is finding your own flair to classic favorites.

Three complementary products

These three products all work together. and are complementary. Bluenotes is pure. and has a Single origin; Artisan is blended, and possesses a craft science; Serenity on the other hand, is about adding flair. These products are all part of the journey of finding a coffee they can call their own, according to Eric.

Eric also said that Conlins wants customers to experience coffee. He added that their company also keeps up with the trends around the world. “We want our customers to understand what they drink, before they really appreciate it,” Eric explained. They do this, he said, but they don’t impose. Their company wants customers to appreciate specialty coffee. “I think a big part of it is in educating people,” he said.

Bluenotes Coffee, Artisans Coffee and Sweet Serenity are distributed by the Conlins Coffee Company. For more information, visit www.conlinscoffee. com or call 551-3215 and 831-2729. You can also visit their retail outlets in Conlins Elements in Greenbelt 5, Alessi in Bonifacio Global City and The Coffee Laboratory in Ayala Center Cebu.

Wear your UNIQLO fleece #WhereverYouFleece

Its that time of the year when you can pull out your hoodies, parkas, sweater and or fleeces out of your closet. But if you dont have fleece to rock on, its about time to add some fleece jacket in your wardrobe. You can layer it on or wear it on its own. Be it fashionable, casual or sporty. Just choose from a wide array of designs and colors. Its your chance to wrap up warm and be fashionable as well.

What I like about the fleece jacket, is that it is lightweight. It has dried on me  after 20 minutes of soaking it wet outside on a rainy afternoon.   It adds warmth, but is less bulky than a coat. You can be stylish in it with the proper accessories or layering.  You can pull it off with the PH weather. You can wear it at the office, or in a out of town gig or just a casual walk at the mall.

UNIQLO recently launched the lineup of fleece outerwear for the Fall Winter 2015 collection last October 16 at SM Aura. The event was graced by UNIQLO Ambassadors Andi Manzano Reyes, GP Reyes and their adorable baby Olivia Reyes.  Ms.  Daryl Chang, Preview Magazine fashion director gave some tips on how to rock your fleece jacket.


UNIQLO announces that it has greatly expanded its lineup of fleece outerwear, including highly fashionable coats and functional windproof jackets for Fall Winter 2015. UNIQLO has also grown its extra warm fleece offering, providing 1.5ºC greater warmth.

The men’s line includes an expanded range of windproof fleece, with a special film between the inner and outer material to keep out drafts. This wind-resistant functionality has been incorporated in soft and comfortable pile lined fleece jacket, Sherpa fleece jacket in trendy khaki or camouflage colors, and faux mouton fleece jacket, with the last designed as a mouton jacket, rather than a fleece. The windproof film has been improved from last year, making it appropriate as an outerwear, also reducing stiffness.

The women’s line features four new types of coats, each with a unique silhouette - a trendy teddy fleece coat, fluffy fleece coat, pile lined fleece coat, and windproof fleece coat. They are suitable to any setting, from fashionable, to casual, to sporty.

The UNIQLO Fall Winter 2015 features an expanded lineup of styles incorporating fleece made from special fibers that harnesses the sun’s energy, providing 1.5ºC greater inner warmth. Along with standard jacket types, this extra warm fleece is available in parkas and print fleece, as well as women’s fluffy fleece jackets and kids’ print fleece jackets. The cross-section of these special fibers is in a “C” shape that retains dead air to enhance warmth. Finally, the line includes an expanded range of check and bi-color designs, as well as those from UNIQLO’s MAGIC FOR ALL collaboration with Disney, which launched for Fall Winter 2015.

UNIQLO first launched fleece in 1994, and twenty years on, it remains a symbol of the LifeWear concept.

Philam Vitality Helps People LIve Healthier Lives

Today’s fast-paced urban lifestyle has exposed many of us—from young adults to professionals alike—to many stressors that have a huge negative impact on our health. Heavy traffic on the daily commute, long work hours, a sedentary lifestyle, the proliferation of processed and fast food choices, stress-induced drinking and smoking—all these contribute to higher health risks that can affect our family’s quality of life.

Philam Life CEO Axel Bromley and CMO Jimmy Javier welcome media guests to the Philam Life Vitality launch

According to the UK-based Oxford Health Alliance, around 60% of deaths worldwide are caused by four “epidemic chronic diseases: diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic lung disease, and some cancers.” In order to prevent premature death and incapacity due to these diseases, we must be able to address three major risk factors: tobacco consumption, poor diet, and physical inactivity.

With these realities in mind, Philam Life, the Philippines’ premier life insurance company, has introduced Philam Vitality, the first in the market, science-backed wellness programme that rewards its members for getting healthy. As a global brand, Vitality is present in several countries with millions of members and makes use of incentives to encourage members to adopt and sustain healthy behaviors. By bringing Vitality to the Philippines through the Philam Vitality program, Philam Life pioneers giving real focus on healthy living.

Philam Life CEO Axel Bromley introduces Vitality, the first health and wellness program of its kind in the Philippines

“People normally associate life insurance with protection and savings products to prepare them for life's uncertainties. At Philam Life, we are committed to take it further by helping people live longer and healthier lives so that they could spend more time with the people who matter to them most,” shares Axel Bromley, CEO of Philam Life.  “Philam Vitality will empower more and more Filipinos with the information and the tools to know and improve their health, and to enjoy longer and fuller lives.”  

Philam Vitality comes with three simple components to help people live healthier lives:

1) Know your health. With Philam Vitality Health Review, users will be able to take an online assessment through their desktops, laptops, tablets, or smartphones, and see if their Philam Vitality Age matches their actual age.

Members can also assess their current state of health through partners such as Makati Medical Center (for check-ups and vaccinations), Hi-Precision Diagnostics (for laboratory procedures such as blood tests and X-rays), and GAOC (Gan Advanced Osseointegration Center) for dental care.

“These assessments help you find out which parts of your over-all health are on track and which areas you can improve. It’s very empowering to know your health status so that you can take control of all the facets of your life,” says Jaime Jose D. Javier, Jr., Philam Life Chief Marketing Officer.

2) Improve your health. With Philam Vitality, members can achieve better health for less, at partners such as Gold’s Gym for gym memberships; Toby’s Sports, Garmin, and Polar for fitness gear and other devices; and Makati Medical Center for smoking cessation program.
Members start with Vitality status of Bronze and move their way up to Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels as they earn points for every assessment test and activity done within the program.

“The more points you earn, the higher Vitality status you achieve, and the greater your rewards,” explains Mr. Javier. “We’ll take care of tracking your points through our integrated systems so that all you’ll need to think of is to get better and fitter each day.”

3) Enjoy the rewards. While better health is already a reward in itself, Philam Vitality offers members more opportunities to enjoy precious time with their family and loved ones, through discounts on tickets to SM Cinemas and Enchanted Kingdom, and on bookings at Marriott and Seda Hotels.

Vitality members also earn discounts on premiums of selected insurance plans. By purchasing a Philam Vitality Series insurance plan from Philam Life or BPI-Philam, members can get upfront discounts on first year premiums and continue to enjoy discounts in succeeding years by improving their health.

Philam Life CMO Jimmy Javier and CEO Axel Bromley introduce the Vitality Program, which motivates Filipinos to live better, healthier lives

“Philam Vitality is unprecedented in the Philippines. We are grateful to have our esteemed partners on board as we encourage members to take charge of their health. Ultimately, a full life should be healthy, fun, and rewarding, and we want to be part of that process.” says Mr. Bromley.

To know more on how you can live a healthier lifestyle, visit philamvitality.com, email ask@philamvitality.com, or call 528-2000.

Carmudi examines the average price of used cars in the region

Philippines Among Most Affordable Asian Countries For Used Cars


Will sustained economic growth and low oil prices help Filipinos take advantage of affordable cars in their country?

Carmudi, the easiest way to sell or buy your car online, analyzed hundreds of thousands of used car listings in order to find out how much consumers spend on used vehicles globally. The study looked at used car models aged 2008 to 2013 to provide insights into price differences across Carmudi countries.

The average price of a used car in the Philippines is $16,719, compared to Sri Lanka ($27,966) and Bangladesh ($33,692). Strong growth for the country’s economy as a whole is expected to continue. The automotive industry has a significant presence in the Philippines, accounting for one-third of the country’s GDP.

The predicted global shift in oil prices, a drop from nearly $100 a barrel in 2014 to around $53 this year, has economic commentators predict even more purchasing power for many Filipinos, which could bring an increase in used car purchases.

The car-shopping experience for buyers in the Philippines can be further improved by new methods of car browsing and sales. Online platforms like Carmudi enable buyers to browse a wider selection of vehicles available in their home country and make an educated choice on the car for the most competitive price.

‘With such presence we see not only more cars being bought in Philippines, but also these purchases being more researched and tailored to the individual buyer’s needs,” said Subir Lohani, managing director of Carmudi Philippines.

“We aim to continuously provide our users with the best car shopping experience and to be number one in the industry. We want Carmudi to be a household name, a one-stop-shop for all car related subjects,” adds Lohani.

Olson Brothers Answer “Operator” Call

Directors Amariah and Obin Olson talk about the inspiration for their new film OPERATOR opening in cinemas nationwide October 21, 2015
 

 When a veteran 911 call center Operator's daughter is held hostage, she's left desperate with no choice but to follow a caller's rules; send a message through dispatch for all Los Angeles police and fire units to scatter to remote destinations where they are met with chaos; cars crashing, explosions, and gunfire.

Not knowing who or why, the one thing Amanda knows is if she fails to secretly collaborate with one of the police, her ex-husband - she'll be the sole person responsible for facilitating the biggest crime of the century. Now she must race the clock to make the choice of her life - save the city - or save her daughter.

Operator stars Mischa Barton (The O.C., The Sixth Sense, Notting Hill); Luke Goss (Hellboy II: The Golden Army, Frankenstein, Blade II) Ving Rhames (Mission Impossible, Dawn of The Dead, Pulp Fiction) and Michael Pare (The Lincoln Lawyer, Hope Floats, The Philadelphia Experiment).

“Operator is an action/thriller exploring an aspect of society that is important but often overlooked: 911 call center operators and emergency dispatchers,” says director Amariah Olson

“The Story was compelling for us as directors because of the insight it provides into these unsung heroes, men and women faced with so many crimes and having to learn to deal with these situations as the first response team... and then throw in the thought of “what if this system were taken over by a criminal to pull off the biggest heist of the century?” We thought this idea would be very interesting to explore as a film, thus Operator was born,” he added.

Olson explains the film is about everyday people who get thrown into extraordinary situations. “Luke Goss doesn’t play a superhero cop. In fact, he’s just been demoted and is struggling with his personal life. Mischa Barton’s character is a mother, a behind-the-scenes type of hero. Ving Rhames isn’t just the bad guy. He had to play an intense character with only a phone, no other actors to play off of. Michael Pare’s character is a cop that toys with greed and with frustrations that seem common these days.”

Audiences will enjoy the various layers that make this high-octane film more than the stereotypical shoot-em-up flick. Suspense and intrigue gets woven through every scene. We try to keep the suspense high and the action well-paced. You don’t know what’s going to happen next. You don’t know who’s in on it. You don’t know what’s going to happen to your favorite characters or the characters that you hate the most.

When the audience has to pay Php200 for a film, they need to be able to feel fulfilled when the end credits start rolling. If they can feel gratified with a fun, suspenseful thrill ride that keeps them guessing, then we’ve done our jobs.

Starting October 21, answer the call of the OPERATOR in cinemas nationwide. Distributed by Solar Pictures.

TRICK AND TREATS AT BURGOO

Exciting treats await all kids who come in Halloween costumes on October 30-November 1 at Burgoo.   Aside from the sumptuous kiddie meal which they can have for free, they will be given bagsful of chocolates and candies.  Interesting and thrilling Halloween designs will be seen all over the place.  And to complete the ambience, the staff will also put on their exciting masks and costumes.

Celebrate Halloween at Burgoo found at T. Morato, Quezon City; Rockwell Center, Makati City; The Podium, Ortigas Center; Gateway Mall, Araneta Center; SM Mall of Asia; Robinsons Galleria, Quezon City; The Block, SM City North EDSA, SM City Marikina, SM Southmall in Alabang, The District Ayala Mall in Cavite; The Terraces Ayala Mall in Fairview; and the recently-open Starmall Prima in Taguig. For reservations and inquiries, please call 9277396, 8981815, 6875565, 7264663, 9136112, 5560091, 6336256, 4420115, 4771932.

Watch "Jem and the Holograms" conquer hearts on the big screen

If you grew up in the 80s like me, you would most probably remember Molly Ringwald who starred in the 80s flick, Pretty in Pink, you could catch her again in "Jem and the Holograms" and lets compare note together.

As a small-town girl catapults from underground video sensation to global superstar, she and her band of sisters begin a one-in-a-million journey of discovering that some talents are too special to keep hidden. In Universal Pictures’ “Jem and the Holograms,” four aspiring musicians will take the world by storm when they see that the key to creating your destiny lies in finding your own voice.



(Watch the Youngblood music video for “Jem and the Holograms” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebaIlyCn9W0.)


Directed by Jon M. Chu (“Step Up” series, “G.I. Joe: Retaliation”), the musical adventure stars Aubrey Peeples (TV’s “Nashville”) as Jerrica Benton/Jem, Stefanie Scott (“Insidious: Chapter 3”) as Kimber Benton, Aurora Perrineau (“A House Is Not a Home”) as Shana Elmsford, Hayley Koyoko (TV’s “CSI: Cyber”) as Aja Leith, Ryan Guzman (“The Boy Next Door”) as Rio, Molly Ringwald (TV’s “The Secret Life of the American Teenager”) as Aunt Bailey and Oscar-nominated actress Juliette Lewis (TV’s “Secrets and Lies”) as Erica Raymond.

“Jem and the Holograms,” based on the iconic ’80s Hasbro animated television series, is written by Ryan Landels (TV’s “Masterclass”).

The idea of reinventing Jerrica and her sisters for the big screen has been a longtime passion project of director Jon M. Chu, who has had a deep attachment to Jem and the Holograms since he was a child.

Chu found that the stars had finally aligned when the producers began discussing what it would look like—and what it would take—to reimagine this beloved property as a live-action film. Their 2015 “Jem and the Holograms” would honor the same underlying messages as the ’80s series, one of female empowerment, honesty and integrity—along with fashion and great music—but it would also be embraced by a new generation. To accomplish the above—while still deeply respecting the diehard fans who have turned the quartet in this iconic property into pop-culture icons—was Chu’s uncompromising mission.

Like many who grew up in the ’80s, the director’s fascination with “Jem and the Holograms” began the moment he first watched the show. Chu appreciated the positive messages that the program brought to kids of his generation, as well as the originality of the stories and characters. “It just really went crazy,” says Chu. “They didn’t go by any rules or any sort of way that cartoons are supposed to be made. The audiovisual robot Synergy would transform Jem and the Holograms into exciting avatars, and they would perform, fight the Misfits and go on adventures. They went everywhere and anywhere. That kind of fearlessness was something other cartoons just didn’t offer, and so I always went back to it as a kid. That inspired and shaped me as an artist as I grew up.”

Chu explains just what was so riveting about the series: “Jem was unlike anything on TV. At the time, I didn’t know what I loved about it other than it was fun and there was music; it was a superhero story where I could use my imagination and play alongside my toys. It wasn’t until years later that I realized how much joy the show brought me and that it was a fearless cartoon about female empowerment. The essence of the show was being true to your identity and nurturing your free expression—whether that is through music, art, dance or something else. Jem and the Holograms were true defenders of that idea.”

“Jem and the Holograms” opens across the Philippines on Nov. 04, 2015 and is distributed by United International Pictures through Columbia Pictures.

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.