Witness the Christmas Magical Field of Lights in Solenad Nuvali

I got an invite to visit Solenad Nuvali and the Magical Field of Lights in Laguna last December 7.  It was my second time to be in Nuvali. The first was at the Camp N for their outdoor adventures. This time we visit Solenad Nuvali Mall to watch a movie, tour the mall (its Christmas Bazaar)  and witness the awesome Magical Field of Lights at night.  Lush greeneries and open spaces surround the establishments of Solenad, offers a relaxed and leisurely shopping experience.

This holiday season, Nuvali transforms into a first-of-its-kind holiday destination with the launch of Magical Field of Lights at Nuvali.

We left Makati at around 1:30PM and arrived at Solenad Nuvali at 2:45PM. We immediately went upstairs at Solenad Cinema and bought tickets to watch Moana.  I love the movie and thankful that my schedule did not push through to watch it on its first day in Makati.  Solenad Cinemas is located at the 3rd level of Solenad’s cinema building. The new state of the art theaters is equipped with Dolby Digital, Recliner Seats and the latest in sound technology, Dolby Atmos.  Solenad houses 4 theatres. The seats are comfortable.  The cinema is squeaky clean and smells nice . We enjoyed the movie in its entirety with free popcorns and sodas.

After the movie, we got to tour around Solenad. I admit the moment I set my foot in Nuvali. I wanted to live there. With lush greeneries that surrounds you.  I love how peaceful it feels and looks even at night. Solenad Nuvali is a welcome respite from the busy place and traffic in Manila especially this Holiday season. I wanted to go back now, at this moment. I need some calm and fresh air.

The christmas bazaar is complete with anything you have in mind. Perfect for gift giving this christmas.  From perfume, makeups, make up brushers, skincare, tops, dresses, knick knacks for the bags, bags, shoes, cellphone casings with blings, clear jelly case and charms.

One block away adjacent to the Christmas Bazaar is the Souq Salamanca booth.  The store catches my curiosity with their mystic charms, and their evil eye protection charms and keychains . It is color blue with cute eye at the center. When you closely look at it, it has some sort of mystery that draws you within.  The owner says it could drive away bad spirits. So the partner bought two charms for us. We wanted some positivity this coming 2017. They are also selling metals, stones and crystals.

We went at the Magical Field of Lights that is a 5-minute walk away from Solenad. We took some photos of the christmas lights and witnessed the launch of Magical Field of Lights,” the first lights and sounds show in Ayala Land’s largest sustainable estate.

Ongoing until January 8, 2017, Nuvali’s grass fields light up like an enchanted field of tulips dancing to two 5-minute medleys enjoyable for the whole family. The show will run every 30 minutes from 6:00 P.M. to 10:00 P.M. daily. Aside from the show, the field also features a variety of attractions such as the 50-meter long light tunnel, Christmas trees, and dandelion light installation. It will also be complemented with a Christmas fair that showcases traditional Filipino Christmas treats such as bibingka and puto bumbong. A variety of local goods perfect for gift-giving will also be available.

“This year, we are ecstatic to introduce a magical and one-of-a- kind holiday treat to the south, bringing Ayala Land’s signature light and sound show to more cities and communities,” said Jennifer Chua, Nuvali Marketing Manager.

With the help of Estate Water, Qualimed Hospital, Amaia Steps Parkway, Ayala Malls Solenad and Nestle Kitkat, Nuvali brings to life a spectacular show for its residents, employees and visitors.

Nuvali invites holiday guests to partake in the Christmas festivities including a visit to the Nuvali Christmas Bazaar at Ayala Malls Solenad which will feature unique local goods from Laguna.

Solenad in Nuvali will also have a roster of crowd-drawing events including the “Christkindl Market” holiday village featuring traditional and modern gifts for sale from December 1 to 31, and the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra concert on December 16.

 Xavier School Nuvali joins the Christmas celebration with “Christmas in our Hearts: The MCN Lighting of the Christmas Star” event happening on December 2.

From sunup to sundown, the estate offers a wide range of activities for families and weekenders. With 50% of the development dedicated to green and open spaces, Nuvali features an off-road biking and running trails approximately 50 km in total length, a multi-functional lake, and a Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary.

Seda Hotel in Nuvali offers a relaxing stay for guests opting for a Christmas staycation. Guests booked for December 24 can enjoy complimentary servings of puto bumbong or bibingka and two cups of hot chocolate.

To get to Nuvali, private vehicles can pass through Mamplasan, Sta. Rosa, Eton-Greenfield, Silangan, or Canlubang exit along South Luzon Expressway (SLEX). Public transportation to Nuvali is available from major jump-offs such as Bonifacio Global City, and Balibago.

Nuvali sits in the cities of Sta. Rosa, Calamba and Cabuyao in Laguna and features a diverse mix of residential and commercial developments.

Western Union awarded Juelle Jade Espiritu with US$1000 through Chain of Betters Campaign

Hatem Sleiman, Western Union Regional Vice President, Middle East & Philippines

The Chain of Betters ask " How would you make the world a better place if you were given US$1000?" and Juelle Espiritu answers by helping the fishermen community of Maribeles Bataan installing radar reflectors on their small wooden fishing boats so as  to help large vessels detect them on their radar and hopefully avoid collisions. With the help of Western Union thru the Chain of Betters campaign. Juelle Jade is now able to help and support fishermen of Maribeles Bataan.

Western Union, a leader in global payments services, recently awarded Juelle Jade Espiritu, one of this year’s Ten Outstanding Maritime Students (TOMS) last December 14 at Joy Nostalg QC with US$1000 to install radar reflectors on small wooden fishing boats in Mariveles, Bataan. The award was given as part of the company’s global Chain of Betters campaign, which creates a chain of good deeds worldwide.

Living in Mariveles, Bataan and studying in a maritime school exposed Juelle to the realities of life at sea, where fishermen sail on the vast open ocean to earn enough money to live. These fishermen use small boats, making them almost invisible to large international merchant vessels that frequent the area. So, when given a chance, Espiritu wanted to lessen the danger the fishermen face every day.
He proposed installing radar reflectors made of recycled material to wooden bancas (small fishing boats) to help large vessels detect them on their radar and hopefully avoid collisions.

“Being one of Western Union’s TOMS has given me so much honor and pride,” said Espiritu. “Now that Western Union has given me the opportunity to help my community, I am excited to see fishermen use the radar reflectors and hope that will help keep them out of danger.” .

Chain of Betters is a global campaign developed by Western Union that supports initiatives in 35 countries. To date, it has supported 108 projects conceived by individuals who have inspiring stories to tell – from lighting up a whole village to helping make a child’s dream to be an airplane pilot come true. Interested individuals can share their ideas for good deeds at www.wu.com/chainofbetters.

“We believe better things happen when money moves, which is why the Chain of Betters campaign funds projects from all over the world to help improve local communities,” said Hatem Sleiman, Western Union regional vice president, Middle East and Philippines. “Anyone can share their own ideas to hopefully become the next link in the campaign.”.

This Chain of Betters campaign is one of Western Union’s efforts to improve the lives of Filipinos. It also sponsors and manages the annual TOMS campaign to recognize and honor future seafarers.

Music Runners partied at the second edition of The Music Run by Philam Vitality

An infectious and energetic blend of music filled the atmosphere at McKinley West as over 10,000 participants, a.k.a. Music Runners ran, danced and partied at the second edition of The Music Run by Philam Vitality. The event, hailed in other countries as the Ultimate 5k Running and Music Festival, returned to Manila bigger and bolder following a smash-hit debut at the Philippine Arena last year.

A phenomenal and futuristic run, The Music Run is an award-winning event that offers a unique total music immersion experience and has been making waves all over the world, including multiple sold-out events in Asia this year, and new tour dates announced in India, Europe and South Africa for next year.

The Music Run by Philam Vitality started on a high note at the Music Village with a pre-party featuring local alternative soul band Sud, who rocked the crowd with upbeat renditions of their hits ‘How We Play’ and ‘Sila’. Pre-race energy levels were further pumped up with a mass warm up by Gold’s Gym, the much-loved music and dance infused workout.

Music Runners ran, danced and partied across a 5km route comprising of five 1km Music Zones – Rock, Pop, Old School, Hip Hop and Dance. Lined with over 120 concert-quality speakers pumping 150,000 watts of music the entire way, The Music Run by Philam Vitality is the world’s loudest 5k fun run. The soundtrack for run was voted for by the participants through a bespoke online music app developed in partnership with Spotify.

In each of the Music Zones, Music Runners were treated to special interactive activities: From cool, cold pyrotechnics in the Philam Asset Management Inc Rock Zone; a tunnel with hanging balls at the BPI-Philam Pop Zone; a stage featuring AirAsia crew lip syncing to the top-voted songs with an electric “Superbowl” performance in the AirAsia Old School Zone with a chance to win exclusive flights and prizes; photo opportunities with graffiti artists, dancers and photo walls in the Hip Hop Zone; to a mobile disco tunnel with glowing lights in the Philam Vitality Dance Zone.

Presenting Sponsor Philam Life, who recently launched the Philam Vitality Active App, hosted a series of engaging running, swimming, and cycling challenges at their booth. A few lucky Music Runners who downloaded the app also walked away with cool prizes such as fitness devices and gym memberships.

“Through The Music Run, Philam Life offers Filipinos a chance to stay fit while having fun. Last year was a really big success and we were inspired to bring it closer to more runners this year,” said Philam Vitality Deputy Head Kats Cajucom.

“This was made possible with the Philam Vitality program, a first of its kind, full-scale wellness program where members get rewarded for making healthy choices. Through Philam Vitality, we are taking active steps to positively transform the lives of Filipinos by helping them to live longer, healthier and better lives,” she added. 

Music Runners were also treated to endless music and fitness-inspired entertainment in the Music Village courtesy of event sponsors.

Petron hosted five fun and challenging activity stations, which included a 10ft high rock-climbing station, a nine feet high ‘Bungee Fun’ jump, a VJ Booth, a ‘Blaze 100’ Velcro jump wall’ and also PS4 Dance games for participants for all Music Runners to enjoy.

At the Alcatel booth’s basketball challenge station, an Alcatel Pixi First phone was given away to the best scorer every hour. Alcatel Shine Lite smartphones featuring remarkable camera qualities were also won by Music Runners who dressed up in the theme “Dare to Shine,” as well as a Music Runner™ who struck the Best Pose at their photo booth.

Other sponsors such as Oakley and Saucony also showcased their latest products at their respective booths and provided Music Runners a chance to win exclusive prizes.

To cap off the event was the ultimate music festival that kept the energy high with dancers, laser lights, chill out zones, and fireworks. Australian radio house DJ Sam Withers, who was a big hit in last year’s after-run concert, wowed audiences once more with a stunning performance.

“The Music Run is not just another fun run. It aims to bring our running experiences to new heights of excitement. The Music Run first made waves in Asia and now it is sending waves of good vibes in cities around the globe,” said Martin Capstick, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Exceed Sports and Entertainment, event promoter of The Music Run in multiple cities in Asia. 

“We are really glad to experience the Filipino energy once again. We hope that even after this run, more Filipinos would become inspired to take up healthier ways to have fun,” he added.

The Music Run Manila is presented by Philam Vitality, and sponsored by BPI-Philam, Philam Asset Management Inc., AirAsia, Oakley, Alcatel, Petron, Saucony, McKinley West, Mellow Radio, Manila Water and Takbo.ph. 

Sigrid Grace Acuin stands now at the helm of a career as a Financial Advisor

Driven by a cause greater than her own, fuelled by a passion put to good use, and ignited by an imagination that unleashed her potential, Sigrid Grace Acuin stands now at the helm of a career as a Financial Advisor, spanning 3 decades. It was a career that was carved at a young age.  Such an early exposure worked to her advantage and eventually she learned the ropes of the insurance industry by the guidance and help of her mentors. It was no walk in the park despite the advantage because the road ahead was not fully mapped as she would learn. Her passion to the career and determination to provide the best for her children kept her steadfast.

                                    Grace Acuin, Third Time Top of The Table (TOT)

The gains began to pay off when she made it to the qualifying round of the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) in 2004 but it was in 2011, when she came back to the Espiritu Agency that Grace went full blast, desiring to give her best in gratitude to her managers Nancy and Henry Espiritu. They backed her up and became her steadfast supporters in her quest for excellence. More than anyone else, it was the late AM Nancy Espiritu who prodded her to go for the Top of the Table (TOT). Nancy gave her that extra push that motivated Grace to reach her first TOT in 2013.

Grace with her children

                                                                 


There was no stopping Grace and despite challenges and obstacles pertinent to the business, she stood her ground unfazed. It became more of a challenge as she was raising 5 children on her own and wanted only the best for them. Once again, fortune smiled upon her brave heart and she made it to the TOT in 2014 in just seven months.

Grace in Florence, Italy

                                                                 



How did she do it? First, she admits in all candor, she was drawn to wanting to make her manager happy. Oh what a beautìful feeling it was to see that smile light up her face! She recalled how excited she was whenever she would hand out a check to Nancy or call saying she had closed the sale. It would have been wonderful if Nancy were around to witness her 3rd TOT this year. During the 2016 Philam Life Annual Awards, Sigrid Grace Acuin was awarded her 3rd Top of the Table qualification, International Premier Icon Award and Top 1 Certified Financial Solicitor for the second year in Philam Asset Management Inc.

Grace in Hongkong

                                                                 

With definitive success in the palm of her hands, Grace shares some of the most important lessons she has learned along the way. Plan and Prepare.  Be pro-active. She updated her list and went out of her comfort zone by going for VIP clients. She delegates. She competes with no one but herself. Giving her best to do better every year. If she doesn't get the results she wants, she would step back and evaluate then make the next move. Making each day count by saving lives one day at a time.

Today she reaps the rewards of her success; for the past 5 years, she's been traveling via business class to Asia, US & Europe all expenses paid by Philam Life. She is now wearing the hat (again) of a Unit Manager with the aim of developing financial advisors to become members of the MDRT.

Grace in London

Sigrid Grace Acuin is an icon made defining her own landscape in the edifice of the insurance industry and contributing her share in a prestigious legacy that is Philam Life.

Alviera’s SandBox launches night operations

SandBox announced that it will be extending operating hours starting December 2. Guests will be able to enjoy all the rides until 9 PM every Friday and Saturday.

“Due to increased public demand, we are extending until 9 PM to cater to more visitors on weekends,” shared Jomi De Guzman, Alviera Project Development Manager.

 This Christmas however, weekends at Alviera will be extra special with the "SandBox Holiday Beats" concert adding to the holiday cheer on December 3, 9, and 17. It will feature live performances from some of the country’s most popular bands: Ki Ro, Chocolate Factory, Che Che Bureche, Silent Sanctuary, Moonstar 88, and Hale.

Alviera has also launched Li’l People, the latest attraction for children at SandBox.
“SandBox in Alviera is popular with families, especially those with small children. Our newest facility will service the needs of families with little kids. This way, all family members, not just the adults, can have a great time in Sandbox,” said De Guzman.

This newest entertainment facility welcomes children up to 12 years old. The air-conditioned indoor playground is filled with colorful play areas where children can interact with each other. Educational toys abound to help them learn while playing.

New dining choices have also opened in SandBox. El Pedro Cubano is an authentic Cuban restaurant that offers Cuban sandwiches, arroz, mariquitas (chips with salsa), tucca fritas (cassava fries with salsa), tamales, and empanadas.

Another new dining option is Morgan’s Comfort Food. A visit to a Kapampangan household will not be complete without good food, animated laughter, and loud conversations. Inspired from what a Kapampangan lola, or apu will prepare on a typical Sunday lunch gathering, dishes are filling, uncomplicated, and comforting, like giving you a hug from home.

Those with a sweet tooth will appreciate Monster Milkshake’s creations. They serve over-the-top milkshakes, ice cream, and bubble waffles, along with savory snacks like hotdogs and waffle fries to complement the icy comfort goodness. With the unique infusion of flavors in each milkshake, Monster Milkshake creates an unforgettable experience for everyone.

“We continually strive to make SandBox a place where everyone, young and old, can enjoy their time and appreciate the outdoors. There is something for every member of the family here,” said De Guzman.

Through the years, SandBox has attracted not only visitors from Pampanga, but also those coming from Manila and nearby provinces. The longer and now tougher Aerial Walk takes visitors through an obstacle course above ground. The Giant Swing keeps riders thrilled 10 meters up, and many are lined up for the Adventure Tower’s offerings:  rappelling, wall climbing and free fall. Other thrill seekers enjoy Avatar One, Asia’s first roller coaster zipline at 180 meters long. The open fields of Sandbox are ready for outdoor activities like camping, kite-flying, field games, and other sports.

Alviera is an Ayala Land sustainable estate in partnership with Leonio Land, located in Porac, Pampanga and accessible via NLEX-SCTEX. Envisioned to become a regional growth center of Central Luzon, it features a diverse mix of quality residential, industrial, and commercial developments.

For more information on SandBox at Alviera, visit http://www.alviera.ph/ and http://www.facebook.com/AlvieraPH. For inquiries, email info.alviera@gmail.com or contact 0917-803-3099 / (045) 432-0014.

Kings Sue whips up Delicious Christmas Traditions

Its that time of the year when Moms like us think of what to prepare and cook for our loved ones on our Noche Buena table.  King Sue whips up delicious recipes in time for the holidays.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year to be with family and friends and share good food. Made with love at the heart of every kitchen  and helping each other cook up a delightful Holiday feast is a lovely tradition. King Sue has some suggestions for that perfect Christmas spread—from ham steaks, burritos, pasta, gratin, and bruschetta, to a host of other recipes—that will not only make this year’s Yuletide celebration  more meaningful:


GLAZED HAM STEAK

Glazed Ham Steak

Ingredients:
• 1 kilo King Sue Sweet Ham, cut into 2 inch slices
• 1 can crushed pineapple
• 2 Tbsp. brown sugar / muscovado sugar
• 1 Tbsp. butter
• 3 Tbsp. honey
• Shallow baking pan
• 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
• Heavy skillet

Cooking Directions:

* Open the can of crushed pineapple and pour the contents into a sauce pan.
* Add the brown sugar, butter and honey to the pan, and stir to combine.
* Turn the stove on medium and heat the glaze until hot.
* Take it off the burner and let it cool for about five minutes.
* Preheat the oven to 180 degrees C or 350 degrees F.
* Line a shallow baking pan with aluminum foil, and place the ham steaks in the baking pan.
* Pour the pineapple glaze over the steaks. Spread the glaze completely over the steaks.
* Cover the pan with a sheet of aluminum foil and put it in the oven.
* Cook the glazed ham steaks 18 to 20 minutes.
* Take off the aluminum foil covering the ham steaks and let them stand for five minutes.
Serve while warm.


PAELLA BURRITO

Paella Burrito

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp  olive oil
• 1 small onion, minced
• 1 small tomato, diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced
• 1 pc chicken breast, strips
• ½ King Sue Chorizo Filipino
• 3 slices King Sue (your choice of ham)
• ¼ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper
• 1 cup cooked rice
• Tortilla (optional)

Cooking Directions:

* Heat the pan, pour in olive oil. Sauté the chorizo for a few seconds to get its flavor, then remove chorizo from the pan.
* Sauté onion, tomato, and chicken.  Let the chicken for a few minutes.
* Add in the ham and chorizo.
* Season it with paprika, salt and pepper.
* Add in the cooked rice, turn off the heat and add the bell pepper.
* Serve on plate or wrapped in tortilla.


PENNE PASTA WITH HUNGARIAN SAUSAGE

Penne Pasta with Ham Sausage

Ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning mix
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flake, optional
• 4 King Sue Hungarian-Style Sausage, cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
• salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup parmesan cheese
• Basil leaves, for garnish
• Store bought garlic bread.



Cooking Directions:

* Bring large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Cook pasta according to package directions.
* In a large deep skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil.
* Add onion, garlic, Italian seasoning mix and red pepper flakes, if using.
* Stir frequently and cook until the onions are soft and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes
* Add sausage and cook for 1 minute
* Add can of crushed tomatoes, stirring all the ingredients together to combine.
* Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste and let simmer for 10 minutes.
* Stir in heavy cream and mix well.
* Drain the pasta and add directly to the skillet with the sauce Toss the pasta to coat with the sauce.
* Transfer to a serving bowl or platter, top with parmesan cheese and garnish with basil leaves.
* Serve with garlic bread.

POTATO AND CHORIZO GRATIN

Potato and Chorizo Gratin

Ingredients:

• King Sue Chorizo Bilbao
• 1 kilo marble Potatoes
• 1 pack all purpose cream
• 1 bar cheddar cheese (easy melt) grated
• ½ cup parmesan cheese grated
• 1 bar (200gms) mozzarella cheese
• Salt
• Oil

Cooking Directions:

* Cut potatoes in half and boil with a little salt until done, let it cool.
* Cook chopped Chorizo in oil set it aside.
* Toss potatoes with all purpose cream, grated parmesan cheese and cheddar.
* Add in Chorizo bits. Left some for toppings.
* Put in baking dish and top with grated mozzarella cheese and chorizo.






OVEN BAKED BACON WITH VEGETABLES BRUSCHETTA

Vegetable Bruschetta

Ingredients:

• 3-4 slices King Sue Sliced Bacon
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2 whole tomatoes, cubed
• Portion of Zuchinni cubed
• 1 pc  green capsicum, cut into thin strips
• 1 French Baguette (small)
• Olive oil cooking spray
• 1 large garlic clove, halved
• 150g mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced

Cooking Directions:

* Preheat oven toaster. Sprinkle olive oil, salt and pepper over the tomatoes, zucchini and bell pepper. Roast for about 8-10 minutes.
* Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Cook bacon for 5 to 6 minutes or until golden and crisp. Remove and drain on paper towel.
* Preheat oven toaster. Cut four 2cm-thick slices from loaf.
* Heat bread in oven toaster for 1 to 2 minutes until golden. Rub both sides of bread with cut side of garlic clove. Top bread with capsicum, bacon and mozzarella. Place in oven toaster and cook for 2 minutes or until cheese melts.
* Serve immediately.




SWEET AND SOUR HAWAIIAN HAM

Sweet and Sour Hawaiian Ham

Ingredients:

• 500 gms King Sue Hawaiian Ham Loaf cubes
• 1/3 cup white or rice vinegar (Note: rice vinegar gives better results)
• 4 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 4 teaspoons water

Cooking Directions:

* Mix the vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, and soy sauce together and bring to a boil in a small pot.
* Mix together the cornstarch and water, add to the other ingredients and stir to thicken then pour in KING SUE HAWAIAN CUBED HAM.
 * If desired, you can add 1 green pepper, cut into chunks, and pineapple chunks as desired after adding the cornstarch. For a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch to 4 teaspoons while keeping the water constant.


For more easy-to-make recipes using various King Sue products, check out their website www.kingsue.com/recipes and start planning a special Yuletide table. 

BATTLE OF THE GOLDILOCKS SWEET ATTACK CHAMPS

You can always count on Goldilocks, the country’s number one bakeshop, to bring you
a delightful day of non-stop fun and tasty sweet treats.

Last month, the country’s number one bakeshop launched its first interactive
smartphone app called Sweet Attack. Once the app is downloaded, players use their
phone cameras to scan any Goldilocks 50th anniversary cake logo to start the game.

The premise is as simple as it is intuitive: using the touchscreen function, players must protect a delicious cake from a swarm of hungry ants by squashing them with their fingers. Due its dynamic gameplay, charming graphics, and easy interface, it is not surprising that Sweet Attack has become a remarkable success all over the country.

During the recently concluded Sweet Attack Battle Tournament, the app’s highest scorers from the past month were invited to compete among themselves for the chance to win cash prizes and gift certificates from Goldilocks. The winners were determined through several elimination rounds, until one sweet champion emerged.

The afternoon was abuzz with excitement and entertainment as players and spectators alike enjoyed the festivities, not to mention the scrumptious Goldilocks treats and giveaways.

Get in on the action and download the Goldilocks Sweet Attack game on the App Store or Google Play Store. Who knows…. the next champion could be be you!

Kopiko 78 awarded eight star athletes to be included in Kopiko 78 Recharged Team

As this year’s UAAP men’s basketball season came to a heady climax, Kopiko 78 awarded eight star athletes, handpicked from each of the varsity teams to be included in the first ever Kopiko 78 Recharged Team!

One Kopiko 78 Recharged Player was commended during each game of season 79 for impressive and exceptional hardcourt performances, exemplary playing despite their hectic schedules with school and trainings. The players from each team who received the most distinctions were awarded the prizes last December 7 at the Araneta Coliseum. Adamson University’s Jerrick Ahanmisi, Ateneo de Manila University’s Antonio Asistio, De La Salle University’s Benoit Mbala, Far Eastern University’s Prince Orizu, National University’s J-Jay Alejandro, University of the East’s Bonbon Batiller, University of the Philippines’ Dave Moralde and University of Santo Tomas’ Louie Vigil each received P25, 000 cash prizes.

We caught up with some of the players and they shared their tips for keeping their energy up.

“You just have to work hard and pray. Dedicate yourself to what you want to achieve and leave the rest to God.” – Ben Mbala, La Salle Green Archers

“Rest is important so that you don’t waste energy on unnecessary things. You need to eat and sleep right.” - Anton Asistio, Ateneo Blue Eagles

“You have to be in the right condition to do what you need to do on the court. That means some extra running, sprinting and weight training.” - Dave Moralde, UP Fighting Maroons

“You need to focus on what you’re doing and you should like what you’re doing. You should always keep in mind that you can do it.” – Bonbon Batiller, UE Red Warriors

“I keep my body prepared. I stick to my pre-game meals, which consist of a lot of carbs. I also have my pre-game ritual: that means proper warm up and getting my mind focused. Visualize!” Louie Vigil, UST Growling Tigers 

“I pace myself, I do breathing exercises. Energy is all about preparation. You need to prepare, so you don’t have a hard time.” – J-Jay Alejandro, NU Bulldogs

“It’s all about endurance and focus. You should not give in to the pain, though it’s not easy. You need to focus on stamina, agility—that keeps you going.” He shared: “We do a lot of conditioning: running the field, climbing stairs up to 18 storeys, core and weight training.” – Prinze Orizu, FEU Tamaraws

To stay refreshed and recharged just like the Kopiko 78 Recharged Team, make sure to enjoy Kopiko 78!

Dr. Loscertales introduces Ozone Therapy in the PH

Barcelona has been enjoying the perks of having Dr. Humberto Loscertales in their medical scene. The famous internal medicine specialist has been the authority and top practitioner of the Ozone therapy for the past 16 years in the Spanish City.

This December, Dr. Loscertales visited the Philippines to introduce one of the most recognized alternative treatment in the US and Europe. A proud alumnus of the Barcelona Autonomic University where he studied Medicine, Dr. Loscertales is highly regarded by the academe for his various doctoral courses, logging 100 teaching hours in the same university.

His academic career reached new levels when he finished his International MBA, starting in Barcelona Ramon Llull university for two years an intensive third year in Manhattan College NY. Dr. Loscertales also practiced medicine in various hospitals in Barcelona while juggling all his academic appointments. He practiced as an attending physician for the Intensive Care Department at the Hospital Clinic, for the Traumatology & General Surgery, at the Can Ruti General Hospital, and for Hematology & Internal Medicine at the Hospital De Sant Pau.

His impressive resume brings to mind the typical or conventional physician, with the scholarly appearance and an aura of wisdom and authority brought about by years of non-stop studying. Dr. Loscertales beaks his stereotype image by having a consistently vibrant personality and a supply of energy that often eludes men and women of his age. Apparently, the practice of Ozone therapy for more than a decade had its benefits, as Dr. Loscertales exudes his youthful vibe while preaching on this new alternative treatment with so much passion.

“We have an exceptional medical tool that increases our efficiency on the solution of medical problems, normally in a complementary way with other medical strategies. In some cases, it is the only medical tool/treatment that can provide a good solution to diseases like: Ankylosing spondylitis, Post-traumatic synovitis, Arthrosis and other degenerative diseases,” Dr. Loscertales said in a statement.

With the strong belief that this non-invasive treatment responds to various medical problems, an association of physicians was created with Dr. Loscertales as one of the founding members in 2006. The association was known as the Asosacion Espanola de Profesionales en Ozonterapia (AEPROMO). This organization spearheaded the establishment of proper standers and norms on the correct use of Ozone in medicine and to organize the international protocol of dosage and clinical indications of the ozone therapy giving the criteria for official recognition.

Ozone has recently been making headlines as it is highly regarded to get impressive results to alleviate chronic pain and it is also a tool for anti-aging. As early as 30 years old to as late as 60 years old, clients go in and out of the Ozone therapy clinics to have their cells regenerated by the O3 element. They head out with an energized body ready to take on more activities in their daily lives.
The treatment which lasts for only about 45 minutes per sessions, is now available at the Ozone Therapy Center, Ground Floor of the King’s Courts Building 1, along Chino Roces Avenue in Makati.

Starbucks PH inspires people we love for 19 years

 I remember meeting my mother at Starbucks SM San Lazaro 6 years ago over  a large cup of coffee jelly.  We met there and talked about relationship (mine),  heartache (mine). Since then, Starbucks SM San Lazaro became our "tambayan",   from there we always catch up on everything that is happening in our lives, at least thrice a month.

I was the one who introduced her to coffee jelly. She loved to partner it with corned beef pandesal. Starbucks SM San Lazaro is the only place that my parents love to go to for coffee, they love how the resident barista concocted their signature hot mocha (coffee).

Good things happen when people get together. This is why, for 19 years, Starbucks Philippines has made it a mission to inspire and nurture the human spirit, one person, one cup, one neighborhood at a time. Its stores serve as the venue where people meet to spend unforgettable moments together.

Starbucks stores located across the country have been a witness to inspired moments of the Filipinos. It is where friends get together, families bond and workmates relax after a long day’s work. It’s a place where people spend their first dates, study for the gruelling final exams and meet prospective clients. “We want our stores to inspire people to create memorable moments. We want the stores to be somewhere they can visit in different phases of their lives – be it for celebrating milestones or even simple gatherings. A third place between work and home,” said Noey Lopez, Starbucks Philippines president.

Maybe it’s the familiar interior across all stores, the inviting atmosphere, or the unmatched professional yet personal service that, for 19 years, Filipinos tend to spend their time there. It’s the Starbucks Experience – the tradition of warm hospitality, constant need for connection, and love for coffee –that make Starbucks Coffee and the Filipino people a great culture fit.

“Since the opening of the first Starbucks store at 6750 Ayala on December 4 1997, we have been committed to providing Filipinos with uplifting coffee experiences not only by celebrating coffee and its rich tradition, but also bringing  a feeling of connection” said Lopez.

Today, Starbucks is present in 20 provinces and 58 cities across the country. The 300th store opened last December 2 at SM City East Ortigas, Pasig City.

“We serve as a gathering place for our customers and we couldn’t be happier about it. We’re not just passionate purveyors of coffee, but everything else that goes with a full and rewarding coffeehouse experience,” said Lopez.

To share your moments of being together at Starbucks, visit www.meetmeatstarbucks.ph