Capture your Summer Stories with the new Sony Camera A6300

Taking better Instagram photos means practicing all the time. I remember posting my very first photo four years ago when I was still in Abu Dhabi. It was a rectangular colorful panel I saw at Corniche Beach beside Seattle’s Best coffee.

It was bad, I mean really bad even if it was just taken from my phone’s camera. I didn’t use any app like Snapseed to saturate, accentuate or give glow to your photos, nor did I think using an app was necessary. I just thought it was interesting so I took a photo and posted it.

But as the years passed, and after following the Instagram accounts of people who take really good photos, I realized that taking photos requires at least a decent amount of effort.

Looking back at my first photos made me kinda feel ashamed of ever posting them, (at least I could look back and see how much I’ve improved) I dread the way I posted them because it was either shaky, out of focus or blurred images. Now that I’m a full time blogger, I’m constantly searching for photographers/instagrammers who have really nice pictures and try to learn from them. Three of my current favorites are Jelito de Leon, Kookie Buhain and Kimi Juan, and they all have clean and interesting feeds.

A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to attend Sony’s Photography Fair and was able to participate in Jelito de Leon’s workshop at Fully Booked BGC. During the event, I learned that he uses Snapseed for his images before uploading them. For “flatlays,” he showed us how to curate the perfect flatlay and balance out larger items with extremely small ones to create some scale and to keep harmony between colors.

Jelito de Leon

He uses the new Sony A6300 for in capturing that instagram worthy pictures. This new mirrorless camera features the world’s fastest auto-focus (AF) speed that can lock locus on a subject in as little as 0.05 seconds-the fastest AF acquisition time. It has an incredible 425 phase detection AF points that enables you to shoot images at up to 11 frames per second with continuous autofocus and exposure tracking.

This syncs perfectly with your mobile devices so you can easily share and rave about what you’ve accomplished this summer to friends and family on social media.

The versatile A6300 camera is also equipped with a newly developed 24.2 MP APS-C sized Earner CMOS sensor that works together with a BlONZ X image processing engine to produce outstanding image quality throughout the entire ISO sensitivity range lSO 100 51200. It can also shoot and record high resolution 4K video in the popular Super 35mm format.

Up Your Photography Game with the New Sony A6300 (64,999) This new mirrorless camera features the world’s fastest auto-focus (AF) speed that can lock focus on a subject in as little as 0.05 seconds-the fastest AF acquisition time. it has an incredible 425 phase detection AF points that enables you to shoot images at up to 11 frames per second with continuous autofocus and exposure tracking.

If you are planning on getting serious about photography, the Summer season offers the perfect opportunity to reignite your passions or realize your aspirations and Sony has several other choices that will perfectly suit your needs.

Fuel You Sense of Adventure with the ASSOVR Sony Action Cam
Capture your new adventures through stunning point-of-view footage with Sony’s latest HDR-ASSO Action Cam. Whether you’re travelling, enjoying water sports, cycling or just strolling around, the HDR-AS50 allows you to capture those experiences and relive them through our mesmerizing HD movies.

The new HDR-AS50 boasts of its 11.1 megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor paired with a ZEISS° Tessar lens. capturing your content in crystal clear high definition resolution. The camera uses advanced SteadyShot’”l which delivers judder-free footage when shooting everything from motocross to aerial landscapes as shakes and cycling are effectively compensated for.

Another great feature of the HDR-AS5O is that field angle adjustment is also now possible on the camera through ”angle setting” and ”zoom setting,” enabling users to switch between wide and narrow for perfect frame adjustment of any scene with less image distortion no matter what angle.
These latest cameras sync perfectly to your mobile devices so you can easily share and rave about what you’ve accomplished this summer to friends and family on social media.

Get Out and About with the Sony Cyber-Shot RX100 IV (Php 49,999.00)
The Sony Cyber-Shot RX100 VI just might be the travel companion you’ve always dreamt of. It has everything you need packed in its tiny body. This versatile pocket-sized shooter not only takes amazing stills but offers 40x super slow motion video capture at up to 960 fps. an ultra-fast Anti-Distortion Shutter with a maximum speed of 1/32000 second. high resolution 4K movie shooting and more.

The RX100 N has an advanced dual video recording functionality. allowing shooters to capture 19.8 MP still images during HD video recording in any of 11 different composition patterns simply by pressing the shutter button. it also features an upgraded Fast intelligent AF System that enables high speed.

Develop healthy eating habits with your kids

Teaching kids to eat healthy is a challenge for any parent. Children would rather eat their fill of candy and junk food instead of fruits and vegetables. Although it’s perfectly fine for them to eat a few sweets every now and then, it’s important for children to develop healthy eating habits early on.
Parents definitely play a big part in the overall development of young children. From the way they talk to the way they act, kids primarily learn by emulating their parents. This applies to healthy eating habits as well. The way parents talk about food, cook meals, and eat all play an important role in influencing children in developing healthy eating habits.

In a study conducted by Dr. Jennifer Utter from the University of Auckland in 2012, children of mothers who ate few fruits, vegetables, and dairy products also developed low-quality diets.
As role models, parents need to ensure that they’re setting a good example for their children by demonstrating a healthy attitude when it comes to food. Instead of eating junk food, grab some fruits instead and share them with your children. Show them that you enjoy these snacks and explain why they are good for the body.

But where do you find healthy, fruity snacks nowadays? Driving your kids to school, one sees fast food joints lining the streets and selling pre-prepared snacks. Even groceries are full of ready-to-eat goodies so you don’t have to worry about preparation. With food this easy to give to your kids, even fruits, which only require peeling and slicing, might seem too much of an inconvenience.
Fortunately, there are fruits you can easily serve without the hassle of peeling and cutting. Canned or packed pineapples, in particular, offer a great option for you to help the whole family form a habit of healthy eating.

These canned fruits won’t take much time for you to serve as snacks. But beyond their delicious flavor, convenience, and ready availability, they are packed with nutrients including vitamin B6 for energy, manganese for the formation of connective tissues and bones, fiber for healthy bowel movement, and vitamin C for better immunity.

Speaking of the immune system, research has proven that daily pineapple consumption can boost a child’s resistance against illness. In a study conducted by Dr. Leonora Panlasigui of the Philippine Women’s University’s School of Nutrition, adding two servings of Del Monte Pineapples to the daily diet of her young participants greatly improved each child's overall immunity.

The study showed a 27 percent increase in the production of granulocytes—a type of white blood cell vital to combating diseases—in children who ate two servings of pineapple a day. The result is reduced recovery time from bacterial and viral infections.

“Even a single serving of fruit a day could make all the difference with your child’s health,” says Dr. Panlasigui. “One serving is good, but the general consensus recommends two servings a day. It’s easy to build a fun, tasty habit with the kids that will benefit them in the long run.”

By helping the family develop healthy eating habits, you can be assured that even if your children eat away from home, they will always make the healthier choice.

Experience the most joyful summer at Resorts World Sentosa Singapore with Jollibee

Jollibee invites Filipino families to join the Singapore Summer Made of Joy raffle promo to enjoy free passes to Universal Studios in Resorts World Sentosa and other Singapore attractions.

Jollibee Chickenjoy, in partnership with premier destination Resorts World Sentosa Singapore, lets families experience the most joyful and exciting summer bonding with the Singapore Summer Made of Joy Promo. With the promo, families can enjoy more of their favorite Chickenjoy while getting more chances of winning one of the 30 Resorts World Sentosa Singapore family vacation packages. The twenty-five winners will each get an all-expense-paid three-day, two-night stay at Resorts World Sentosa Singapore for a family of four, with free passes to Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, and Adventure Cove Waterpark.

Every Chickenjoy piece bought entitles customers to a raffle ticket, which can be dropped off in designated boxes found in all Jollibee stores nationwide. Get the two-piece Chickenjoy Value Meal and get two raffle tickets; you can also share the joy with your family and friends with an eight-piece Bucket and get eight raffle tickets! The promo has been extended until April 30, 2016, and the more Chickenjoy you buy, the more chances of winning.

‘Edutainment’ for the whole family
With the Singapore Summer Made of Joy Raffle Promo, the whole family can bond together through a variety of learning and leisure activities. They can relive the magic of blockbusters with movie-themed rides at Universal Studios Singapore through an impressive variety of attractions, explore ocean life at the sprawling S.E.A. Aquarium, and have a wet and wild great time at the Adventure Cove Waterpark.

All these educational and entertaining experiences make Resorts World Sentosa Singapore a great partner for Jollibee in creating joyful experiences for Filipino families.

Hurry and grab more of your favorite Chickenjoy and you might just be headed to an unforgettable summer getaway with the whole family!
For more information on Jollibee’s Singapore Summer Made of Joy Raffle Promo, watch the video (https://goo.gl/8Axmtz) and visit the Jollibee Facebook page.

Achieve a healthier life through Philam Vitality

For the first time in the Philippines, insurance products offer living benefits “like never before” with a science-backed and global wellness programme, Vitality.

With close to 20 years of success spanning South Africa, United States, Europe, China, Hong Kong and Australia, Vitality is made available for Filipinos who would like to go beyond traditional life insurance products.

BPI-Philam introduced Assure Protect to the market recently, following Philam Life’s launch on October 2015. Assure Protect is a high-value life insurance plan which allows policyholders to enjoy high market returns. It is a unit-linked protection plan that comes with Philam Vitality and offers an upfront 10% discount on the insurance premium while keeping the life insurance benefits and coverage the same. The discount can increase up to 20% depending on engagement & health status. This is happening for the first time in the Philippines.

Beyond protection, investment and savings, Philam Vitality pushes the bar and gives day-to-day living benefits that will reward members for being healthy.

 “With Philam Vitality, insurance becomes strongly relevant to our policy holders every day. It is there when they make daily choices: what to eat, how they can improve their health, what exercise to do today, what vacations to plan for, etc.” says Philam Life chief executive officer, Mr. Axel Bromley.

“We want to empower Filipinos to achieve financial security and prosperity. This can only truly happen if health does not get in the way.” says BPI-Philam chief executive officer and president, Mr. Ariel Cantos.

Philam Vitality gives easier access to basic health check so members will watch out for their health status, like their updated cholesterol and sugar levels. The programme has partnered with industry leaders Makati Medical Center and Hi-Precision Diagnostics for discounts to basic and some advanced screens. Its exclusive dental partner, Gan Advanced Osseointegration Center (GAOC), likewise provides significant discounts for basic dental assessments.

To keep improving their health, members are given discounts to Gold’s Gym, Toby’s Sports and renowned fitness device brands, Garmin and Polar. Smokers can also take advantage of a special package for Smoking Cessation at the Makati Medical Center.

Each time a member takes the screens and does healthy activities, there will be Philam Vitality points to be awarded. The points add up to allow a member to reach a higher status for higher benefits, starting from Bronze to Silver, Gold and Platinum.

Intelligent incentives were designed to reward members for taking steps to be healthier. These rewards come from partners like SM Cinema, Seda Hotels, Marriott and Enchanted Kingdom.
All these partner branches and establishments are located on over 180 locations all over the Philippines, giving a great chance of access to members for their benefits.



“The rewards one can get from the Philam Vitality programme are astounding. From the insurance premium discount to all the partner benefits, a member can see that insurance is now more and more relevant to him. We’re excited to launch Philam Vitality to our BPI-Philam customers and we hope it will really encourage our members to live healthier and happier lives,” says Mr. Cantos.                              

Bonifacio High Street takes Summer on the Street

Bonifacio High Street (BHS), a kilometer-long dedication to lush greens, vibrant spaces, one-of-a-kind outdoor shopping & dining, and larger-than-life entertainment, brings you fresh inspirations & encounters this summertime with two exciting campaigns named SUMMER ON THE STREET and the ICONS OF THE WORLD mall-wide promotion running from April to June 2016.

Already a favorite lifestyle destination, BHS is also the perfect playground this summer as it celebrates different passions in all shapes and forms—be it Outdoor & Recreational Sports; Photography; Pets; Music & the Arts; Food, Travel & Culture; or even random “Geekery”—whoever you are, whatever it is that you love, you will surely find something just for you at Bonifacio High Street.

A Dog Day Afternoon
Its pet-friendly parks & walkways make Bonifacio High Street the best setting for you & your furry friends. In BHS, petting is not only allowed, it’s even celebrated!

On April 10, both pet owners & pets are in for a treat at Waggin’ Tails, happening in the BHS Park. In collaboration with All4PetsParty, enjoy free vet consultations, pet agility courses, pools & playpens, and take home loads of freebies! The fun continues with The Great Shih Tzu Walk at the Activity Center & 9th Avenue on May 7. Hosted by Royal Canin, it will be an attempt to break the Guinness world record for the biggest gathering of same breed dogs.

Tasteful Travels 
Thailand comes to Bonifacio High Street with the 1000 Smiles Thai Festival on April 15-17 at the Activity Center. Discover exciting Thai fare & savor delectable flavors as the Tourism Authority of Thailand dishes out amazing bites. You can even get a chance to win an all-expense paid trip to Bangkok!

The Great Outdoors
What is summer without revelling in the outdoors? Let the sunshine seep into your skin as you spend the weekend at the R.O.X. (Recreational Outdoor Exchange) Outdoor Festival on April 16 to 17. Get your adrenaline pumping with this fun and engaging adventure. Stretching the entire length of BHS, enjoy active lifestyle challenges, outdoor movies, and unbeatable promos and freebies!

Art & Soul
Soak in even more inspiration with the Arts x Music x The Coffee Bean festivities on April 30! Be treated to an all-sensory experience with live music from the best talents of BGC Impromptu, bring home unique & creative trinkets from the BGC Art Mart, and hone brand new skills with the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s free creative movement workshops and improvisation classes. Did we mention there will be free coffee too?

Vote Mom!
The most important woman in our lives is in the forefront on May 8 with Bonifacio High Street’s mother’s day celebration. In partnership with Mommy Mundo, moms get to enjoy inspirational talks, on stage activities, and charming gifts and prizes!

Sneak Peak
Calling all sneakerheads for a weekend to remember on May 21 – 22 as Bonifacio High Street showcases your favorite kicks from your most loved shoe brands. Indulge in exclusive promos & discounts from popular brands such as Sole Academy, Adidas, Nike, and more, while enjoying fun game booths and live music from some of the best DJ’s!

Geek on Fleek
The Community of geeks will find another space to share their unique hobbies at the “United Geekdom” weekend on May 21-22. With activities such as Lightsaber Demos, Game of Throne (GOT) Quiz Nights, and a showcase of Lego, comic books, and other collector items, everyone will agree that geeks are the new cool!

Picture Perfect
Capping off the summer festivities is the CameraHaus Photo Festival on May 28-29. Not only for photographers and hobbyists, the festival will include special summer discounts and promos from various camera brands, photo contests and lectures and amazing giveaways!
Look out for the #BHSSummer food truck and exchange your Php1500 receipts from any Bonifacio High Street shop from April 9 to May 29 and get free ice cream from Mad Marks and other summer treats!

Shop & Fly
After the successful staging of the “mini” Eiffel Tower last Valentine’s, Bonifacio High Street brings the world to your feet with more larger-than-life installations inspired by the most iconic structures from all over the world: revel at the 20-ft tall Leaning Tower of Pisa, The Louvre, and the Merlion that will adorn key spaces in BHS beginning April 9.



In partnership with Globe Telecom & Emirates Airline, you can get a chance to win a FREE flight for two (2) to Singapore, Italy, and Paris plus free Globe Data Roaming for (5) days for a minimum spend of Php3000 (single or accumulated receipts) from any Bonifacio High Street shop or restaurant from April 9 to June 9, 2016.

With new and exciting roster of events, promos, and activities for everyone this summer, Bonifacio High Street is truly a vibrant space that feeds everyone’s passion to live, work, and play.
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/BoniHighStreet or follow @bonifaciohighstreet on Instagram.

Century Tuna Superbods Nation 2016 Finals Night fires up the summer

The hottest, the grandest, and most sizzling event this summer season — a celebration like no other as Century Tuna Superbods marks 10 glorious years of sexy — hits the stage in the Century Tuna Superbods Nation 2016 Finals Night. Truly, it doesn’t get bolder than this as some of our country’s most popular celebrities and a bevy of fit and fab men and women — the 26 Superbods 2016 finalists — converge at the exclusive Palace Pool Club for the much-awaited announcement of the ultimate Superbods of 2016!

“That the Century Tuna Superbods search has reached its 10th year is but a reflection of our unwavering commitment towards promoting a lifestyle of health and fitness,” says Greg Banzon, General Manager, Century Pacific Foods, Inc. ”We are extremely proud of this milestone which we’re celebrating in major way. I can’t wait to see the Superbods finalists who I'm sure will put their best foot forward on this night as well as witness the grand reunion of Century Tuna celebrity endorsers.”

And what a reunion it will be! Joining Ultimate Superbods Anne Curtis and Derek Ramsey are some of the hottest celebrities who are also past and present Century Tuna endorsers, namely, Xian Lim, Jessy Mendiola, Elmo Magalona, Paolo Avelino, Gerald Anderson, Isabelle Daza, KC Concepcion, Aljur Abrenica, Phil Younghusband, and Solenn Heussaff who will walk the runway in what is sure to be an evening to remember!

And of course, taking center stage with these glamorous celebrities are the 2016 Superbods finalists — Olivia Medina, Carmela Fernandez, Ambra Gutierrez, Nancy Leonard, Chet Abella, Maria Martinez, Cassie Umali, Mirtle Gimenez, Kaara Tan, Carla Meneses, Anja Peter, Natalia Lalonde and Tanya Hyde, Jerome Tan, Ryan Sy, Kel Padilla, Erie Obsena, Jake Khan, Pio Luz, Tom Esconde, Cedric Roxas, Shawn Stansbury, Ali Khatibi, Clint Bondad, Andrew Aurellano and Ameen Sardouk — who have been working hard, raising their game as they prepare to prove themselves worthy of the Superbods 2016 title.

True to this year’s Superbods Nation theme, Century Tuna has made the competition bigger in scope as it inspired the entire nation to join the fitness revolution by downloading the Century Tuna Superbods app. This mobile app allowed consumers nationwide to vote online for their favorite candidates receive useful fitness tips while staying abreast of the latest Century Tuna Superbods Nation 2016 happenings and even win a ticket to the much-awaited finals night.

This year’s star-studded finals event is the perfect culminating activity to the journey that began with a series of nationwide go-sees early this year, followed by the announcement of the 26 finalists, and the fun Pre-Finals weekend. Truly a fitting celebration to mark the 10th anniversary of the biggest, sexiest and most-awaited health and fitness event in the country that began in the summer of 2006.

Dubbed as the Century Tuna Beachfest, the first Superbods competition was a two-day event held in the country’s most fabulous island of Boracay and brought together hot bodies, exciting  prizes, fun  games, and a glamorous beach party where  Jon Avila and Michelle Padua emerged as the country’s very first Superbods.


This was followed by the Century Tuna Superbods Beachfest 2007 where Ram Sagad and Patty Ortega reigned supreme; the Century Tuna Superbods Bods and Brain Challenge in 2009 with Van Victor Leano and Theresa Fenger emerging triumphant; the Century Tuna Superbods Run in 2010 where thousands gathered at the Bonifacio Global City for an adrenaline-pumping event;  A Salute to Sexy in 2012 where John Spainhour and Monika Sta. Maria marched in to victory, and the Century Tuna Superbods Super Challenge in 2014 with Mauro Lumba and Sarah Polverini as winners.

As this year’s finalists hold their breath for the announcement of Superbods 2016 title holders, Century Tuna further upped the ante with bigger prizes:  P100, 000 each for 2nd runners-up, P250,000 each for the 1st runners-up and P500,000 each for the grand prize winners.

Of course, a most impressive panel of judges has been put together to choose this year’s winners: Century Pacific Foods, Inc. General Manager Greg Banzon;  Miss Universe 1969, actress and Century Tuna endorser Gloria Diaz; fashion editor and stylist Liz Uy;  basketball superstar Jeron Teng; Mediaquest and TV 5 President & CEO Noel Lorrenzana; Intelligent Skincare Inc, a unit of the Belo Medical Group Managing Director Cristalle Belo-Henares; and PC&V Communications President and Chief Creative Officer Ariel Comia.

The country’s most glamorous stars; the hottest Superbods title holders and the healthiest, fittest and most glamorous men and women in the country vying for the  Superbods Nation 2016 title. Without question, the Century Tuna Superbods Nation 2016 Finals Night is this year’s most fantabulous summer event!

Bahay Safety , Buhay Safety

According to data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, from 2010 to 2013, 30% of house fires are caused by faulty electrical wiring. The main causes of these fires range from exposed wiring, defective cords and wire, defective appliances, and even lightning strikes. Upon closer inspection, one can see that only one of these (the lightning) is considered as an “Act of God”, which means that preventing electrical fires is well within our control.

Recently, Schneider Electric Philippines, the global specialist in energy management and automation, launched the Bahay Safety, Buhay Safety Campaign, an advocacy to raise awareness about electrical safety at home. At the recent media launch held in Makati, Schneider Electric, along with safety advocates TxtFire Philippines Inc., showed how fires, and personal injury, can be prevented simply by following simple safety precautions and investing in the right electrical fittings.

“It takes very little electricity to cause harm,” said Mr. Jones Lim, Public Safety Director of TxtFire, who was the resource person on safety for the event. “But as with anything, as long as we know how to handle it, electricity can help power our lives with minimal risk.”

TxtFire is a group of volunteers, who initially offered immediate response to reported fires within their areas of jurisdiction. But now they are more proactive in their approach by going to different provinces to educate people how they can prevent fires.

Mr. Lim opened up with a primer on common electrical facts, its effects on the human body, the most common ways that we’re exposed to electrical damage or injury, and how to manage them. Most common of which is faulty electrical wiring, which can be prevented simply by ensuring that your homes wires, switches, plugs, and appliances, are well insulated and properly grounded.

After the primer from Mr. Lim. Schneider Electric’s own Erwin Creencia, Retail Sales Director, showed global statistics on electricity-related injuries and fatalities at home. According to the French Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development, Transport and housing, 4,000 people get serious electric shocks every year in France where 100 of those incidents are fatal. More data from an independent study from GRESEL, a French voluntary research group, revealed that 40% of the incidents happen to children under 9. In the US, a 2012 study from the University of Oklahoma stated that electrocutions are the 4th most common causes of industry fatalities. Over 3,600 suffer from disabling injuries and 600 people die every year from electrocution.

“Even in developed countries in Europe, a lot of homes are potentially electrically unsafe,” Creencia said. “But we can prevent the worst from happening.  We just need to know more about how we can better protect our home and of course our family,” he added.

Creencia further defined what “Safety at Home” really meant. For Schneider’s Bahay Safety, Buhay Safety campaign, Creencia focused on three key elements: 1) Safety for property, which starts with protection against overloads; 2) Safety for your family, which aims to protect your loved ones against electrocution and other electrical dangers; and 3) Safety for electrical appliances, which protects your expensive devices from malfunctions due to overvoltage.

Schneider Electric has always believed that starting with the correct equipment is a crucial investment to your home and your family.  For each of the three safety elements, Schneider Electric presents a solution for Bahay Safety, Buhay Safety.  First, the Residual Current Devices (RCD), which automatically turns off the current when it senses a short or electric shock, preventing further injury. They also presented miniature circuit breakers, which protects against short circuits and overloads from appliances, thus preventing fires. And lastly, surge protection devices, which protect from overvoltage cause by inconsistent power currents and lightning strikes, to save your expensive appliances from damage.

Schneider Electric’s solutions are compliant with the International Electrotechnical Commission or IEC standards.  Electrical installations in buildings that have the IEC 60364 standard include safety protection standards against electric shock, thermal effects, overcurrent, voltage disturbances and electromagnetic disturbances.

“By following a few simple safety protocols such as making sure your electrical wiring are not faulty and damaged, investing in the right equipment and ensuring their proper installation, the risks of electrical fire, damage, injury can be greatly reduced,” Creencia added. “With so much at stake—valuable property and even more so the lives of family members—no cost is too great when it comes to safety,” he concluded.

For more information on Schneider Electric Philippines products, please visit http://www.schneider-electric.com.ph

Alex Medina is so good even when he’s bad

Alex Medina is one of those actors who exudes a roguish charm that reminds me a lot like my showbiz crush Robin Padilla. although he has been a staple in the Indie scene for the past few years, I must admit that the first movie I saw him in was Heneral Luna. But despite his limited screen time in the movie, his scenes were among the ones that I remember most.

In Echorsis, however, Alex Medina gets most of the screen time as Karlo, the sweet talking gigolo who victimizes gay men into falling in love with him and filling his wallet.

Chris Cahilig and Alex Medina

Much like his father, respected character actor Pen Medina, Alex showcases his acting chops in every scene, I even noticed some of  those in the cinema beside me swooning just like his victims on screen.

And as he makes the 180 degree switch from gigolo to someone who is possessed by a vengeful gay spirit, Alex ably conveys to the viewers his internal struggle despite delivering some of the funniest lines in the movie.

Push yourself to the limit with AXN's Ultimate Thrill 2016!

This summer, AXN brings to the crowd an energy-packed set of activities that would bring pure excitement to the crowd.

AXN Ultimate Thrill 2016 will be held in Camp N Nuvali in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, on April 16, starting at 6 AM. 150 qualified teams of 2 members, 18years old and up, will have to register one to two hours before the event. Registration can be done onsite or online at http://nuvali.ph/events/AXN-UltimateThrill-2016 and also at Chris Sports branches.

This event presents the thrill-seekers with a variety of obstacles including log hurdles, wall climbing, rollercoaster zipline, and more! After the morning activities, only 20 teams with the shortest time to accomplish the challenges would move on to the final round. Finally, at the end of the event, only 5 brave and tough teams will go on to the next leg of the thrills in Boracay on the following week.

AXN Ultimate Thrill 2016 is co-presented by Smart and is sponsored by C2 Cool&Clean, Fisherman’s Friend, and Smirnoff Mule.

Experience the longest zipline at "Camp N" Nuvali

If you are a fan of outdoor adventure, you will surely love what Camp Nuvali N offers. It boasts of Adventure Tower which houses the longest rollercoaster zipline in Asia, which of course I tried  to simultaneously with the short zipline, I should say that the short zipline has the steepest slope ever. I have been ziplining since the last 3 years, I have tried it 5x already, so I conquered my fears altogether.  Camp Nuvali N has the longest zipline I have been through, and it was fun flying through the trees with its slope and fast speed. There are of course questions in your mind while reading this, and I would provide them for the curious and thrill seeker in you. There are 5 things to consider before ziplining.

1. Make sure you are physically up for the ride. You must be able to climb the stairs leading to the ziplines. There are ropes that you would be gripping on for your dear life, make use of your muscles you never knew you had.  Eat your meal before proceeding to the course and make sure to have a bottled water alongside your mini messenger bag. 

2. What should I wear? You should wear light and comfortable clothing that isnt too loose, the one that would never snug on your harness. Wear shoes that are close-toed, flipflops or sandals are definitely a no-no. Tie your hair up, so as to not get tangled in equipment. 

3. Is ziplining safe? At Camp Nuvali, safety is their top priority. They use the best equipment in outdoor sports imported from Germany.  Their harnesses and carabiners are made of extremely durable materials. Their staff is highly trained and would double check your harness before you climb the stairs. They make sure you understand safety procedures before you begin your ziplining tour and provides special helmets as well. 

4.  Can I bring my kids on a zipline tour?  If you're the kind of mom who wants to experience this with your kids, go but take extra precaution. If safety is your priority, then you and  hubby should leave the children at home. But if they are grown ups and would like to try this out, why not. 

5.  Know your limits. Most zip lines have a weight limit. Ask yourself if youre healthy enough to try.  If you're pregnant or if you have a heart condition, if you think the stress just might be too uncomfortable, if you are afraid of heights, take a pass. Try the aerial walk first or go biking. 

Within the heart of Nuvali lies “Camp N”, touted to be the eco-city’s premier outdoor  adventure and team-building facility that serves as an incubation for self-discovery through obstacles and challenges testing one’s physical limits, mental abilities, and even character and values. Located just south of Manila, Camp N is convenient for bonding among coworkers, families, and friends looking for active fun this summer season.

 “We designed Camp N in such a way that outdoor play and self-discovery are integrated seamlessly so people can enjoy bonding while being surrounded by nature. Camp N’s philosophy— expressed through providing people outdoor amenities where one can commune, learn, grow, and interact socially— jive perfectly with the sustainable philosophy of Nuvali being an eco-community,” said John Estacio, Nuvali general manager.

John Estacio, Nuvali general manager.

Camp N’s thrills-based and skills-based facilities include the Adventure Tower, which has the biggest roller coaster zipline in Asia, as well as free fall, wall climbing, and rappelling facilities. The Obstacle Course has three challenge levels from basic to advanced, encompassing a broad spectrum of skill levels. The Aerial Walk is a series of rope-based challenges set high in the air. The High and Low Rope Initiatives is a series of balancing platforms and tightropes set just a little above ground and requires the participation of small groups.

Right beside Camp N is Greens & Patches which serves as a tree nursery, a demo organic farm, as well as an art and meditation center for those seeking an introspective approach in self-development. Guided tours and programs will soon be offered here so guests can learn about nature’s processes and gifts.

Camp N’s lush and scenic trails include paths for trail running beginners and mountain biking for kids and adults.

“Camp N is for everyone and anyone who is not only looking for some outdoor adventure fun but also a place where they can recharge and connect with other people or even themselves, while being surrounded by nature,” said Estacio.

“The presence of Camp N provides the community a convenient outdoor adventure stop. For Nuvali’s existing communities, it’s a fun learning camp within the neighborhood where they can take their kids out to play and learn. As Camp N evolves further, there will be more activities that will develop their physical and creative skills all within the comfort of nature,” added Estacio.

On April 16, Camp N will be the venue for the first leg of the “AXN Ultimate Thrill 2016”, a multi-stage adventure race similar to The Amazing Race, also popularized by the AXN network. Adventurers will go through intense obstacle challenges in Camp N and the first 20 finishers will head to Boracay for the final round. Only 200 teams from Manila may join the AXN Ultimate Thrill 2016. Registration is through the AXN website.

To get to Nuvali, one can take any of the five South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) exits at Mamplasan, Sta. Rosa, Eton-Greenfield, Silangan, and Canlubang. Nuvali is also easily accessible via public vehicles from major centers like Makati, Bonifacio Global City, and Balibago.

Nuvali is a 2,290-hectare mixed-use development of Ayala Land that straddles the cities of Sta. Rosa, Cabuyao and Calamba in Laguna. It is a integrated self-supporting eco-city that is home to 12,000 residential units, two business process outsourcing (BPO) buildings, two prestigious schools, and the 150-room Seda Hotel, which can provide accommodations for stay-cations and teambuilding activities.

 As a veritable stomping ground for outdoor adventure enthusiasts, Nuvali offers nature amenities such as its 35-kilometer mountain bike trail, a multi-functional lake, hiking paths, and a wildlife and bird sanctuary. Ayala Malls Solenad has over 400 shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making it the primary go-to leisure destination for residents in Laguna, Tagaytay, Batangas, and Muntinlupa.