Secure your child’s education with a Philam Life policy

(From left) Philam Life Chief Life Operations Officer Richard Bracken hands-over a check to Philam Life Policyholder Agnes Belazon


Agnes Belazon knows how a mother’s love can fuel her to do whatever it takes for her child to have a good life with a college education. She however did more than just toil away. She made the right step of purchasing an education policy after the birth of her eldest daughter Jheansen.

Nineteen years later, Agnes is now nearing the fulfillment of her dream of a college degree for her daughter. Jheansen is now in her graduating year at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines’ Human Resources Management program, graduating ahead of time. Having a Philam Life education policy freed Agnes of financial worry as Philam Life releases semi-annual payouts just in time for every school semester’s enrollment.

Since 2004, Philam Life has delivered timely payouts of over PHP10 billion in education benefits. This May, 50,000 scholars nationwide will receive their education funds in time for the first semester of school year 2016-2017.  This is a testament to the company’s ability to fulfill its promise to help parents give their children a good education, year after year.

Like Agnes, you too can secure your child’s education with a Philam Life policy.
For more information, get in-touch with a Philam Life Financial Advisor or visit www.philamlife.com.

A better life begins with a smart choice: Life Smart

More than anything in the world, Filipinos value their family the most. Breadwinners work hard to maintain a stable source of income to provide for their family’s needs and to achieve a worry-free and happy family life. Making choices in life is hard because of the loved ones to consider.

The future holds a lot of uncertainties.  No matter how careful anyone tries to be, things may not go according to plan.  A smart choice that every breadwinner should make is to have the right plan that can help them prepare for the future.

Recognizing the need to simplify the value of an insurance protection plan, Philam Life recently introduced Life Smart, an insurance plan designed to give the policyholder a worry-free future with life insurance coverage, accident and terminal illness benefits so that his family can continue to live the life he planned for them. If nothing happens by the end of the plan, he can get his payments back plus an additional cash bonus, making it a smart choice for his needs.

Life Smart gives guaranteed life insurance coverage with accident and terminal illness benefits.   This means that in case the policyholder passes away, his beneficiaries will receive the full coverage of his plan.

If cause of death was due to an accident, the amount that the beneficiaries will receive becomes double the amount of the insurance coverage.

If the policyholder gets diagnosed with a terminal illness, he will receive the guaranteed benefit in advance.

Moreover, after 20 years, the policyholder will get all the payments back.  Plus, he can also get additional cash through yearly dividends and a loyalty bonus.

Think of it this way: the breadwinner and his family are financially protected the entire time for 20 years, and if nothing unexpected happens, all the payments will be returned. As the name implies, Philam Life’s new Life Smart plan is designed to be smart and simple.

A better life begins with a smart choice.  So make the smart choice today with Life Smart. Visit www.philamlife.com.

Modern Living TV features celebrity hosts Bianca Gonzalez and Stephanie Zubiri

Don’t miss the latest episode of PhilSTAR TV’s “Modern Living TV,” as celebrity hosts and lifestyle columnists Bianca Gonzalez and Stephanie Zubiri scout for the most beautiful living spaces and try out the latest metro trends and hobbies.

Join Steph as she meets up with Mia Borromeo of Philippine Tatler Homes for a quick  tour around the lavish Hermès Maison store. Exclusively carrying luxury French home’s furniture, Hermès Maison has the latest luxe styling trends in store as seen in the most grandiose homes here and abroad.

However, living glamorously does not have to be confined to one’s home. The MLTV team explores ‘glamping,’ (a portmanteau on glamour and camping) the newest trend among those who wish to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing luxury.

After the break, Bianca discovers the secrets of everyday make-up from the experts at MAC Cosmetics. Learn how to sport a more polished and beautiful visage everyday in just five minutes.

For this week’s featured living space, Avida’s One Antonio is a condo-city tucked in the quiet side of San Antonio Village, a private, sensible, and rejuvenating enclave in close proximity to Makati’s Central Business District.

The fifth season of Modern Living TV has 13 episodes, running every Saturday since March 5 until May 28 on ANC at 6 p.m., with replays on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Modern Living TV is the first lifestyle TV show by a news media organization.

Every 30-minute episode of Modern Living TV features the latest eye candy in the form of breathtaking living spaces and other elements of modern living. The show will also present informative and entertaining segments that feature the hottest lifestyle trends.

For more updates, like and follow https://www.facebook.com/ModernLivingTV and @ModernLiving_TV on Instagram and Twitter.  To watch past episodes, log on to philstartv.com.

Visit Muni Market at Nuvali on May 21

On its 5th year, MUNI Market continues to spread its message of “mindful living” to folks living in the metropolis and beyond through a festive market affair at the Solenad Activity Park, Solenad 3, Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna. Cause-driven entrepreneurs will be showcasing their healthy, local, and eco-friendly fares including food, as well as home and fashion items, alongside educational workshops, demos, and live musical performances.

“Muni” is derived from the word “muni-muni” which in Filipino means to think, ponder, muse, or reflect. Through the MUNI Market, the Muni community of like-minded merchants eager to share their knowledge of “mindful lifestyle options” hopes to inspire people to become aware of their impact as consumers and the simple ways one can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Among the conscious, purpose-driven merchants at MUNI Market include Yadu which produces high-quality bags and backpacks made with upcycled fabric. Risque Designs makes colorful footwear using handwoven Hablon textiles from Iloilo and accessorizes them with Paete wooden icons. Gouache’s reusable lunch bags tote as well as complement wholesome meals. Jertie’s Kitchen specializes in vegan, gluten-free pastries and dishes.

The MUNI Market will be open from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. In between shopping, kids can attend coloring and storytelling activities, food enthusiasts can watch food demos, and yogis can join a yoga class. While guests mill about the day-long bazaar, musicians such as Toni B, Gentle Universe, Paola Mauricio, and Mellow Submarine will provide live entertainment for a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
“MUNI Market’s ideals are in sync with Nuvali’s sustainability philosophy. We are one with the MUNI community in helping consumers make more informed lifestyle decisions and providing avenues for people to effectively make changes for the good of the environment and society,” said Nuvali Marketing Manager Jennifer Chua.

Within Nuvali’s lush 2,290-hectare mixed-use development are scenic bike trails, hiking paths, and a wildlife and bird sanctuary, in line with its vision as a self-supporting eco-city. Nuvali recently launched Camp N, its 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. 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.

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.

Show your support for the Wish 107.5 Ultimate Fandom Challenge

Wish 107.5 gathered up finalists for the Ultimate Fandom Challenge on May 18 at the Vagabonds Artisan Food in Tomas Morato, QC.  Celebrity singers who graced the presscon are The Juans, Francis Lim and Daryl Ong. 

Darryl Ong

Francis Lim

Wish unveils the first Wish 107.5 Ultimate Fandom Challenge, which aims to revitalize Filipino music by empowering fans to show their support and appreciation for the music of their favorite artists.

The celebrities who made it to the finals are the Darrenatics (Darren Espanto), Juanistas (The Juans). Dyfenders (Jason Dy) and Mowienatics (MorissetteAmon). 

Also competing to be hailed as the 4th,  5th and 6th runners-up are the Wish Fandom Survivors Juan Karlos United Families Club (JK Labajo). Francisnatics (Francis Lim) and Darylnatics (Daryl Ong).

After over two weeks of intense battle. the recently named top contenders of the  Wish 107.5 Ultimate Fandom Challenge are now gearing up for the competition’s final round.

During the elimination round. the fandoms' final score was computed through their performances in online voting (50%) and Twitter trending battles (50%). The faculty of the Ateneo De Manila University’s Department of Mathematics served as the official tabulating partner.

The fandom of total performer Darren Espanto topped the online voting and also emerged victorious during the Twitter trending battle held on May 15.The group made it to the number one and eight spots of the Philippines and worldwide trends lists, respectively.

Apart from another round of online voting and Twitter trending battles, the remaining fandoms will go through a set of more intense challenges for the competition's final stage. This includes an adventure race and a special collaboration with their favorite artist to be judged by prominent figures in the industry.





 The final night will be held on June 20 at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum where a total of Php 2.3 million will be given away to the winning fandoms, their artists and chosen beneficiaries.



Other fandoms who participated in the Wish 107.5 Ultimate Fandom Challenge include Callalista United (Callalily), Esang’s Angels (Esang De Torres), JBKlisters (JBK), Paollowers (Paolo Onesa) and SweetBryterNatics (Bryan Termulo).

Powerpuff Girls celebrates Mama Jamma's Day Out!

My love for Powerpuff Girls started in the late 90s. When all the girls, of course not my age rooting for a Buttercup, Blossom and Bubbles. I was in my early 20s,  secretly adoring Buttercup, because of her aggressiveness, mean and tomboyish ways. Despite all those, she always managed to save the day together with the two Powerpuff Girls.

Cartoon Network recently celebrates Mother's Day with the  ThePowerpuff Girls Mama Jamma’s Day Out at the Activity Center in Trinoma Mall, Quezon City on May 8 and treated over 5,000 moms and kids to a day of bonding and fun.

“So once again, the day is saved. Thanks to ThePowerpuff Girls!” The citizens of Townsville are always grateful to the superhero trio for saving the world before bedtime. In reality, our days are saved mostly by superheroes who have been with us since day one – our mothers – and more often than not, we forget to thank them for all the great things they have done. 

Families enjoyed the Mayor of Townsville’s Photobooth, where they posed like they’re flying over the city of Townsville; the Chemistea Lab, where kids concocted their own delicious beverages; and Bento Baon, where moms and kids bonded over learning how to prepare super-cute, crafty and yummy lunchboxes perfect for school.

In addition, kids took part in Poaky Oaks Art Classes where they learned to make their own Pillow Puff pillows, design their own picture frames, inflate their own balloons and have their face and body painted. To make this Mother’s Day more memorable, kids were also encouraged to create their own Powerpledge Accessories and exercise their creativity as they make their little promises to their moms. Nothing says “I love you, mom” more than a well-kept promise.

ThePowerpuff Girls Mama Jamma’s Day Out was hosted by Karel Marquez, with performances by the Pop Girls and special appearance from celebrity mom Camille Prats and her son. For more information, visit the event page:https://www.facebook.com/events/1127863173911696.

Catch Blossom, Bubbles and Buttercup every weekday at5:45pm as part of Laughternoons only on the number one kids’ channel, Cartoon Network! Cartoon Network is available on SKYCable Channel 43, SKYCable HD Channel 178, Cignal Channel 35, Cignal HD Channel 110, Destiny Cable (Digital) Channel 43, Destiny Cable (Analog) Channel 51 and Cable Link Channel 26, Dream Satellite Channel 15.

LEROY SANCHEZ AND OTHER YOU TUBE FAVORITES IN MANILA!

Some of You Tube’s hottest artists headlined by Leroy Sanchez are performing in Manila on Saturday, July 9, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Also confirmed in the line up are Max Schneider, Sam Tsui with Kurt Hugo Schneider, and Australian band At Sunset. It’s the season’s hottest concert.Produced by Ovation Productions. Tickets on sale starting 12 noon of Saturday May 21 at regular ticketnet outlets and ticketnetonline.

ARTISTS’ BIO

Leroy Sanchez

At age 15 Leroy uploaded his first cover song on YouTube, and has since posted over 70 videos amassing over 34 Million YouTube views. Leroy’s covers have varied drastically over the years and have always been selected based on a personal connection he feels to the music. The artists he has covered range from Bonnie Raitt to Rihanna to Frank Ocean and some—such as James Morrison, Tori Kelly, Jessie J—have even taken notice of Leroy’s rendition of their song and sent praise and support out via social media. His passion for music, inherent skill, and undeniable charm have earned him a dedicated following of loyal fans who have followed Leroy on his journey and eagerly await his next move.


Max Schneider

Max Schneider is a New York City-based pop-soul singer and actor. Schneider was raised in Woodstock, New York. He began performing at age three and got his first agent at the age of 14. Schneider was a swing understudy in the Broadway musical 13 covering 4 roles in 2008 and 2009, and modeled with Madonna for an international Dolce And Gabbana campaign. He was the 2010 Young Arts Theater Winner. Throughout June 2015, Schneider toured with Fall Out Boy, Wiz Khalifa, and Hoodie Allen on the Boys of Zummer Tour.

Sam Tsui

Sam Tsui has been hailed as an internet singing sensation, who along with his production partner Kurt Schneider was among the first musicians to establish a hugely popular music-focused channel on Youtube. To date, his videos, including covers, medleys, and mashups, have amassed over 500 million hits on Youtube alone, with each new release, including his 2013 debut original album “Make It Up”, contributing to his ever-expanding worldwide fanbase. A recent graduate of Yale University,Tsui has been able to harness the ever-changing tools of the digital music age to independently create an internationally popular channel and brand, garnering him countless TV and magazine appearances, including The Ellen Show, The Oprah Show, Entertainment Weekly, and In Style Magazine. Tsui has all served as a host and correspondent on "American Idol" and "The Sing Off". Turning his digital success into ticket sales, he completed a two-month domestic tour in 2013 and a seven country Asia Tour in 2014, with plans for future international touring in the works. Tsui has applied his powerful digital platform to many brand deals, including KIA, Dell, and a national spot with Coca Cola that ran during the 2014 Super Bowl. Sam's second album is currently in the works.


Kurt Hugo Schneider

Kurt Hugo Schneider is a composer, music producer, and director. Most of his work is on his YouTube channel http://youtube.com/KurtHugoSchneider, created in October 2007, now with over 3MM subscribers and over 600MM views.

Kurt was born in Baltimore in 1988 and grew up in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. He become involved in musical theater in high school and quickly developed a love of music and performance. He majored in mathematics in college, while developing his musical and technical abilities by creating content for his YouTube channel. In 2009, he created the production company NoodleHouse Studios. In 2011 he moved to Los Angeles, where he lives and works–composing, producing , performing, and directing.


At Sunset

AT SUNSET features brothers Harrison and Andrew Kantarias, and their good mate Tom Jay Williams. Originating in Adelaide Australia, the trio came together with two things in common: their love of music and their enthusiasm for the fun things in life.

“The name is a metaphor for our feelings towards music. We like to be upbeat, positive, and really just enjoying life. Playing music, sunsets, beaches, pools, girls in bikinis... it doesn’t get better than that, does it?” Harrison reflects.

In the two years since making an online presence, the band have amassed well over 5 million views on YouTube; 300,000 combined Twitter followers; one million Facebook likes; and an ever increasing army of fans globally.

Tickets available starting 12 noon of Friday, May 20, 2016 at all ticketnet outlets and online at www.ticketnet.com.ph.

There is HOPE for a Bright Future

There is no question that education forms the basic foundation for a child’s eventual future, which is why this time of the year causes a lot of anxiety for parents when it comes to choosing a school for their children. With the new K-12 program now firmly in place, some schools are better equipped to deal with this overhaul in the educational system.

You want a school that prioritizes not only a child’s welfare and education but one that keeps up with the ever-evolving theories that involve learning. Hope Christian High School (HCHS) has been a leader in primary and secondary education for the youth for the past 70 years.  The school prepared for the K-12 transition way in advance. Advisers were assigned to ensure that the students are on the right track. Teachers are well trained in the new curriculum but are also vigilant when something needs to be adjusted or revised.

Hope Christian High School is a non-traditional school with a stellar reputation in the academics. They are particularly well known for their STEM program. STEM stands for Science, Technology Engineering, and Math, an international based program that puts a certain emphasis on these subjects which are integrated into their curriculum. Tremendous opportunity and growth is expected for those with expertise in these areas. We are seeing it now in the demand for jobs that involve IT and other related fields, and the demand can only increase. Coupled with the school’s emphasis on bilingual fluency in both Mandarin and English, this gives a student good head start in the global arena.

“We are a non-traditional school where students’ individualism and uniqueness is greatly appreciated and acknowledged,” emphasizes Angeline Kua Tan, Principal of Hope Christian High School. “We offer innovative subjects like STEM, Aquaponics, and Robotics in our curriculum. Students in high school use tools like I-pads and other e-learning devices because we believe that a hands-on experience is an integral part of learning.” With cost as a major consideration for many parents, Hope Christian High School’s tuition and miscellaneous fees are reasonable and can be considered low to the kind of state-of-the-art facilities the school has.

Hope Christian High School believes in holistic growth and development. They have a well-rounded program that encourages participation in sporting activities such as track and field, volleyball and basketball as well as the arts such as theater and dance.

“The pursuit of excellence is paired with Christ-centeredness,” states Angeline Kua Tan. “Here at HCHS, we develop leaders for God and man.” 

Enrollment starts on May 16, 2016. Visit their facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Hope.Christian.High.School. For more details and information, please visit the website at http://www.hchs.edu.ph.


Hope Christian High School is located at 1242 Benavidez St., Sta. Cruz
Manila, you may contact at (+632) 310-8071 to 75.

Jenuine NextJen Meetings at Hotel Jen

Hotel Jen, the lifestyle brand of Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, has launched NextJen Meetings – an exciting meetings model delivering distinctive themes with practical amenities, optional extras, Golden Circle Event Planner Rewards, as well as credit to redeem against a future event.

NextJen Meetings Jenuine
Created to reflect the Hotel Jen experience and promise of a sense of adventure and intuitive service, NextJen Meetings take meetings beyond a traditional conference layout with themed offerings – ‘Jenuine’ and High-Energy. The ‘Jenuine’ concept boldly uses a full-sized table tennis table or sofa seating to assemble participants for ice-breaker or meeting sessions, while the High-Energy package inspires interaction with bean-bag seating or swing chairs, and a video game station to spur creative thinking. Delegates may also request for a customary meeting setup under the Business theme.

In addition, event organisers can earn Golden Circle points on all materialised conferences and events through the Golden Circle Event Planner Rewards programme. With the highest level of rewards in any meeting and event loyalty programme, planners can earn up to 40,000 Golden Circle points on an event booking – the equivalent of 40 complimentary room nights.

It is also the only programme that allows members to earn double points for subsequent meetings or events booked in the same calendar year, as well as to redeem points for future events and meetings.

Aimed at making NextJen Meetings the most rewarding suite of value offerings, the ‘Jenuine’, High-Energy and Business concepts include brain-food menus for lunch – served buffet or picnic style by the pool or garden – and two breakout sessions with refreshments and snacks. Standard for each theme are an organiser pack and cable kit, mobile charging station, audio-visual equipment, quirky amenities, farewell drinks and a 10 per cent credit for use towards a future meeting.

A menu of add-ons, such as art workshops, Chinese tea tasting and wellness activities, may be arranged as part of a complementary approach to experiential meetings at Hotel Jen.

“Having asked clients to share great and mediocre meeting experiences, we put their valuable insights to use,” said Marisa Aranha, vice president of sales and marketing. “Apart from location and price, respondents mentioned customer service and meals were a priority – we have addressed all these components and added our extra touches.”

To join Golden Circle, please visit www.goldencircle.shangri-La.com.

Philippine Red Cross on Ceaseless Recovery and Renewal

It’s been several difficult years since Nov. 8, 2013, when the Philippines braved the strongest storm ever recorded, and took the brunt of Typhoon Haiyan, the deadliest Philippine typhoon to date.
As the typhoon swept through Samar, Leyte, Cebu, Capiz, Negros and Northern Iloilo, it left in its wake 6,300 dead, and cities such as Tacloban in a brittle heap. According to reports, an estimated 16 million people were affected by Typhoon Haiyan, 4.1 million people were displaced, and 1.1 million houses were damaged after the devastation.

Rebuilding the cities,especially Tacloban, and helping the communities bounce back from such devastation was a challenge. It was a difficult task, but not an impossible one for the Philippine Red Cross (PRC).

“The Philippine Red Cross understands that action without direction is nothing. We, the PRC, pride ourselves in being there at times when people need us most, sharing hope when there doesn’t seem to be any, and providing light when others cannot see the way,” shared PRC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Dick Gordon. “As long as PRC live, we will continue to serve, protect and be in service to the Filipino people.”

Approaching Haiyan’s third anniversary, the PRC proudly shares its progress.

HEALTH SECTOR
HOME/ SHELTER
HYGIENE & SANITATION
SCHOOLS/ EDUCATION
LIVELIHOOD

Smart partners with 20th Century Fox for "X-men" and "Smart X-perience"

With Superhero fans all hyped up to witness the world’s powerful mutants in “X-Men: Apocalypse,” the country’s unrivaled mobile services leader Smart Communications has teamed up with 20th Century Fox through its local distributor Warner Bros. for one of this year's most anticipated films, which opens in 3D and IMAX cinemas on May 18.

As the official mobile partner for “X-Men: Apocalypse, Smart is unleashing the most epic round of awesome experiences, perks and prizes exclusive to its subscribers, giving them a chance to win the SMART X-PERIENCE, an ultimate adventure that features a trip for (two) 2 to any Airbnb listing in Southeast Asia; a group pass for an X-Men-themed activity at Mystery Manila; and Uber Black vouchers.

Also up for grabs are brand new devices such as the Samsung Galaxy S7 and LTE Pocket WiFi, perfect for taking their dose of X-MEN: APOCALYPSE content on the go.

Text XMEN to 9999

To join the promo, just register by texting XMEN REG <NAME/AGE/ADDRESS> to9999 free of charge. For the complete mechanics, simply text XMEN to 9999.

Smart users can accumulate e-raffle entries with every top-up of select Smart Prepaid Big Bytes offers (50, 99, 299, or 799); purchase of a Smart Prepaid or Smart Bro Prepaid SIM; and sign-up or renewal for select Smart Postpaid and Smart Bro Postpaid Plan.

FREE Mystery Manila Pass for Smart subscribers

To take the X-men: Apocalypse experience to another level, Smart has also joined forces with Mystery Manila to give all Smart subscribers a FREE PASS to the X-Men-themed challenge at Century Mall in Makati City. This unique experience will allow X-Men fans to gather their squad and summon their inner superhero in unraveling a thrilling mystery – for the perfect group activity this summer.

To secure a slot for your FREE PASS, simply register atwww.smart.com.ph/XMENAPOCALYPSE.  Smart’s dedicated portal also offers exclusive digital offers and interactive online challenges that give subscribers a chance to take home premium X-men: Apocalypse merchandise.

Super-sized digital and real-life experiences

“After the smashing success of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, we are excited with "X-Men: Apocalypse," another sure-fire blockbuster X-perience for our beloved subscribers. This further stretches their film enjoyment through our arsenal of digital content and our brand of awesome experiences,” said Smart Brand Head Kathy C. Carag.

“With our supersized data offers, especially our doubled-up Big Bytes 50 with 700MB data valid for three days plus 600MB for YouTube and iflix, Smart subscribers have more than enough to boost their X-Men: Apocalypse experience – from streaming trailers and video features on YouTube to rooting for their favorite mutants on social media sites like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.” 

Powerhouse cast of warring mutants

Directed by visionary director Bryan Singer, X-Men: Apocalypse features a powerhouse cast of warring mutants as the immortal Apocalypse (Oscar Isaac) takes  Magneto (Michael Fassbender) into his fold to create a new world order, prompting Raven (Jennifer Lawrence) and Professor X (James McAvoy) to unite and lead a team of young X-Men to save mankind from complete destruction.

For more information on Smart’s exclusive X-Men: Apocalypse offers, visitwww.smart.com.ph/XMENAPOCALYPSE and follow Smart’s official accounts on Facebook (www.facebook.com/SmartCommunications), Twitter and Instagram(@LiveSmart).




Level up your "X-Men: Apocalypse" experience with Smart's most awesome perks and prizes!
Text XMEN to 9999 now!