Play it cool with ASUS Zen AiO Pro series

Im not into gaming, I envy anyone who play using their laptops. It requires a lot of dedication not to mention time, to finish a game and win on the side. I guess I would be confined to writing my blogs and seeing movies on my laptop. But if you are a hardcore gamer (ROG) and in the market for a new gaming laptop the ASUS Zen AiO Pro comes with pre-installed Microsoft Windows and equipped with a powerful six-speaker ASUS Sonic Master Premium sound system that delivers 16W of incredibly rich and clear stereo sound.


ASUS PH recently unveils Zen AiO Pro with ROG in mind with pre-installed Microsoft Windows last Oct 23 at Valkyrie Palace, BGC.  The launch was hosted by Ms. Bianca Valerio and graced by ASUS executives and media guests.

Zen AiO Pro deserves to be the computing centerpiece of any home or creative workspace, with full connectivity across all devices allowing it to become the ultimate digital hub for work or play.

The display gives your eyes a visual treat, whether you’re reading text, viewing photos or watching videos. The amazing resolution makes photo or video editing so much easier, with every tiny detail pin-sharp and crystal-clear. The state-of-the-art technology in Zen AiO Pro ensures an awesome entertainment experience, whether users are watching the latest blockbuster movie, enjoying games or simply relaxing with music.

ASUS Philippines announces the 23.8-inch Zen AiO Pro Z240IC, the first models in the incredible new Zen AiO Pro Series, a premium range of all-in-one PCs that fuse art with industry-leading technology. Zen AiO Pro provides a perfect balance of beauty and performance for the ultimate all-in-one computing experience.

Featuring a stunningly-elegant all-aluminum design, Zen AiO Pro looks amazing. But the beauty is not just skin-deep, with superb performance delivered by 6th-generation Intel Core
 i7 processor and gaming-grade NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960M graphics with up to 4GB of video memory. Other leading-edge technology showcased in the Zen AiO Pro Series includes the latest USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C port, up to PCIe 3.0 x4 M.2 SSD storage.

A true masterpiece
Zen AiO Pro is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and design, with a slim and elegant unibody shell forged from a solid block of anodized-aluminum, with a precision-crafted matching integral stand. The smooth, sophisticated appearance is enhanced by a layer of edge-to-edge glass covering the display, and the rear cover has a beautiful fine brushed-metal finish that perfectly complements the signature spun-metal Zen-inspired concentric circles on the front fascia.
Zen AiO Pro is a vision of elegance, finished in a stylish yet subtle Icicle Gold color that will add a touch of beauty to any space.

Extreme beauty, extreme performance
The extraordinary Zen AiO Pro is built to provide out-of-the-ordinary performance for discerning home users. Using the latest generation of quad-core Intel Core up to i7 processors, combined with 16GB of the very latest DDR4 memory and lightning-fast up to PCIe 3.0 x4 M.2 SSD storage, Zen AiO Pro has power to spare for instant responsiveness and ultra-smooth and immersive entertainment.

Dedicated NVIDIA GeForce GTX™ 960M gaming-grade graphics with up to a class-leading 4GB of video memory ensure users can enjoy superb stutter-free high-resolution movies and videos in vivid, lifelike colors, or play even the very latest games at full resolution with high quality settings.

Zen AiO Pro is the world’s first all-in-one PC to use the next-generation USB 3.1 Gen 2, which delivers blindingly-fast data transfers of up to 10Gbit/s —twice as fast as USB 3.0, and over twenty times faster than USB 2.0. With these speeds, even the biggest data transfers take no time at all. Zen AiO Pro uses the latest USB 3.1 Type-C connector for improved ease of use — the connector is reversible, so it can’t be inserted the wrong way round. And for all-device connectivity, Zen AiO Pro also has a full complement of 4 USB 3.0 ports plus a USB 2.0 port, along with the latest ultra-fast 802.11ac Wi-Fi.


Incredible sound, awesome entertainment


Zen AiO Pro is designed for the ultimate multimedia entertainment, with up to a stunning FHD 10-point multi-touch IPS display for vibrant, pin-sharp visuals that make every detail visible, along with wide viewing angles and ultra-responsive touch interactivity. Zen AiO Pro also has a color gamut of up to 100% sRGB, which ensures accurate, rich and vivid color reproduction.

The incredible audio system has a total of 6 speakers that deliver rich and clear full-range sound. Each 8-watt stereo channel uses three powerful speakers located at either side of Zen AiO Pro, giving fully-realistic stereo separation and a total of 16 watts of pure, undistorted sound for an amazingly-lifelike experience.

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.