LG G6’s large, immersive screen can be enjoyed in a comfortable, one-hand grip.

 Last year, global technology innovator LG Electronics blew away the Mobile World Congress with its G5 smartphone, garnering the most awards among all the other mobile powerhouses. Because of its worldwide success, expectations of tech experts were high in this year’s MWC run, which launched its successor LG G6.

Today, two months after its global unveiling—where global tech experts Wired, Android Authority, Digital Trends, PCMag and TeachRadar hailed the G6 as the best smartphone of MWC 2017, the multi-award-winning device officially opened its doors to the Philippine market through a massive event at SM Mega Fashion Hall. Consumers, media partners and celebrities gathered together to experience LG’s latest flagship, which projects itself as the ideal social media smartphone for any digitally-savvy user.

Endless display, compact body
Through consumer insights, research, development and innovation, LG G6 goes back to basics, empowering users to do more with its large screen while being compact enough to fit comfortably in one hand. It comes with a 5.7-inch QHD+ FullVision display, and for the first time ever in a smartphone, a highly functional 18:9 screen-to-body ratio. Compared to conventional 16:9 aspect ratio displays, the 18:9 format offers more viewing space and a more immersive experience when streaming videos and playing games.

Even with its large screen, the smartphone is easy to hold. Sculpted from aluminum and glass, the G6 offers a sleek minimalist design with rounded corners, extremely narrow bezels and a perfectly flat black—no camera bump to avoid or protect.

Video, audio and picture quality at its peak
More than the breakthrough 18:9 format and complementary design, LG G6 also stakes its claim as the first smartphone to feature Dolby Vision technology. But not only does it support Dolby Vision, it also supports HDR 10, both of which are standards for High Dynamic Range (HDR), the picture quality technology which allows a wider range of color, luminosity and detail. With HDR content from Netflix and Amazon on the rise, users can watch popular shows in stunning HDR quality on the G6, enhanced by superior audio from its Hi-Fi Quad DAC feature.

The camera technology of the G6 is also naturally advanced with its standard and wide angle settings for both the rear and front cameras, dual 13MP rear cameras (including a 125-degree lens on the wide angle) and an expanded 100-degree field of view with the wide angle 5MP front camera. The G6 features Android’s first-ever Square Camera Mode, with a function that can divide the 18:9 screen into two identical squares for simultaneous photo taking, editing and uploading, as well as creative Instagram shots. Users can also up their food photography game with the popular Food Mode function.

Bar-raising durability and user experience
The G6’s durability is further developed with its water and dust resistance. It can be immersed in up to 1.5 meters of water for as long as 30 minutes, and users can worry less about accidental drops and other rough environments during everyday use. For greater reliability against overheating, the G6 is designed with a metal frame and heat pipe to dissolve heat. The powerful device has passed 14 different military-standard 810G tests involving rain, fog, humidity and temperature, among others.

User experience is also levelled up with a built-in Google Assistant to work seamlessly and intuitively with LG apps, empowering users to get fast answers, manage everyday tasks, enjoy the best music and videos and search the G6 more quickly and efficiently than ever. With the remote after-service utilizing artificial intelligence, the more Google Assistant is used, the more personalized it becomes because it knows more about the user.

Now in Philippine shores
Prominent personalities like LA Tenorio and Sharlene San Pedro graced the event and encouraged the public to try out the smartphone, while respected industry names shared their own acclaims from different points of view. Social media influencer Janeena Chan raved about the G6 camera’s square feature and wide-angle mode while Spot.ph’s Owen Maddela shared his experience with the Food Mode. Director of local blockbuster “I’m Drunk, I Love You” JP Habac commended the G6’s video taking and Dolby Vision capabilities, while the Hi-Fi Quad DAC audio quality was lauded by Yael Yuzon, the lead singer of popular music band Sponge Cola.

“We’re so excited to introduce to the Philippine market our newest mobile innovation,” LG Mobile Philippines VP Jay Won said. “It received excellent feedback from tech experts worldwide because we listened to customers’ modern needs. The G6 went back to basics and took smartphone design, convenience and overall user experience to the next level. With the G6, we hope that Filipinos will be able to expand their capabilities using the big, immersive screen that fits in one hand.”

LG G6 is now available in the Philippines in Astro Black, Ice Platinum and Mystic White retailing for Php 37,990.00. From April 17 to 30, 2017, buyers can avail of LG’s pre-order promo and enjoy exclusive freebies worth Php 8,990 (an LG G6 case and LG Tone Infinitum bundle) as well as a one-year extended warranty. For more details, visit lg.com/ph, like @LGMobilePH on Facebook and follow @LGPhilippines on Twitter and Instagram.

LG G6 is now in the Philippines. Present at the launch at SM Mega Fashion Hall were (L-R): Program host and radio DJ Karla Aguas, basketball star LA Tenorio, actress and VJ Sharlene San Pedro, social media influencer Janeena Chan, TV personality Luis Hontiveros, LG Mobile Philippines Product Manager Faith Mijares, LG Mobile Philippines Senior Sales Head Aldo San Pedro, actor and singer Khalil Ramos, Spot.ph Associate Publisher Owen Maddela and “I’m Drunk, I Love You” movie director JP Habac.

(L-R): Basketball star LA Tenorio, actor and singer Khalil Ramos, LG Mobile Philippines Product Manager Faith Mijares, social media influencer Janeena Chan, LG Mobile Philippines Senior Sales Head Aldo San Pedro, LG Mobile Philippines VP Jay Won, actress and VJ Sharlene San Pedro, TV personality Luis Hontiveros, movie director JP Habac and Spot.ph Associate Publisher Owen Maddela celebrated the country’s newest social media smartphone.

Great technology and music came together as Spongecola’s lead singer Yael Yuzon and alternative rock band Hale treated the audience to OPM classics.



LG G6 offers exciting new features fit for any digitally-savvy user: the Dolby Vision and video taking capabilities for movie director JP Habac, the Food Mode feature for Spot.ph Associate Publisher Owen Maddela and the Square Camera and picture taking superiority for social media influencer Janeena Chan.

LG G6’s large, immersive screen can be enjoyed in a comfortable, one-hand grip.

Stay chill this summer with McDonald's new Creamy McFreeze

Step out in style this summer like up and coming teen stars Maymay Entrata and Edward Barber as they join the McDonald’s family as the newest endorsers of the new Creamy McFreeze. Take it from their latest TV commercial “Cool Summer with MayWard” as they show everyone how to turn the streets into their catwalk with the newest summer sensation: McDonald’s Creamy McFreeze. You can watch the fun and playful TV commercial

https://www.facebook.com/McDo.ph/videos/1306806442701946/

Like MayWard, up your style game and stay chill this summer when you enjoy the new Creamy McFreeze—creamy vanilla soft serve topped over thirst-quenching frozen drink. It’s a unique and delicious frozen drink that is perfect for those hot summer days when you need something cool to go with your equally cool outfit. Available in three flavors, you can choose among the Frozen Coke, Frozen Royal, and Frozen Royal Berry Delight. It’s definitely the best summer accessory for those looking for a cool and refreshing experience—only at McDonald’s!

Invite your friends and loved ones to beat the heat with the new McDonald’s Creamy McFreeze for only Php29. It is available 24/7 in select stores via Dine-In, Take-Out, and Drive-Thru. Share your photos on Facebook, facebook.com/McDo.ph or tag @McDo_PH on Twitter or Instagram.

Its PLAY time at Ayala Malls

This summer, kick off your office shoes and put away your school uniforms as Ayala Malls becomes your most exciting playground!  Inviting you into its playful spaces and inspiring you with new, wonderful experiences, Ayala Malls redefines PLAY time, and helps you create beautiful memories with family and friends with its slew of summer activities. Whether you’re a tiny tot, tween or adult, Ayala Malls gives you amazing opportunities to explore, engage, share and have fun! This April to June, find new reasons to leave your home and revel in life outside!

ShopkinsShoppies Live: Just For Kids

Ayala Malls tickles your tiny tots’ imagination with the Shopkins Shoppies X Play. Let the kids meet their fave characters as the hit YouTube stars, Shopkins Shoppies, take   center stage in their Premiere 30-minute Live Musical Show. Catch the live interactive shows at Glorietta (April 21-23; 2PM, 4PM and 6PM), Market! Market! (April 28-30; 1PM, 3PM and 5PM) TriNoma (May 5-7; 2PM, 4PM and 6PM), Alabang Town Center (May 12-14; 11:30AM, 3PM and 6PM), Solenad (May 19-21; 11AM, 3PM and 6PM) and Harbor Point (May 26-28; 11AM, 3PM and 6PM).

Rugby Clinics: The Tough Get Going

After a year of sitting still in the classroom, get your heart racing with a little high-adrenaline contact sport – Rugby. Rugby is the latest sport to be re-included into the summer Olympics, and this summer you can be taught by our very own national rugby team, the Philippine Volcanoes.

In cooperation as well with the Phil. Rugby Association, the Globe Volcanoes Junior Rugby Clinics will help your kids bulk up and fuel their competitive spirit. In addition to building confidence and stamina, kids can build camaraderie with fellow young athletes. Sign them up for the clinics held at Glorietta, Solenad and Legazpi (May 7), The 30th (May 14), Alabang Town Center (May 21), Market! Market! andAbreeza (May 28), TriNoma and MarQuee (June 4), Ayala Center Cebu (June 11), UP Town Center and Harbor Point (June 18) and Circuit Makati (June 25).

Ultimate Summer Squad: Fun with Friends

 

How tight is your squad? This summer, Ayala Malls tests your teamwork with the ultimate #Squadgoals challenge. The Ultimate Summer Squad adventure puts your friends and family through several fun challenges in a game-show inspired playground. Compete in this high-energy race that tests your wits, strength and stamina. Giant inflatables, wacky ‘Minute to Win It’ games, and wild card activities are just some of the exciting obstacles that you will need to pass! Join now and get the chance to win big with the ultimate group summer getaway – (First Place) a 3D/2N stay in Casa Kalaw, El Nido, Palawan  with airfare for four; (Second Place) a 3D/2N stay at Balay Cogon, Sicogon with airfare; and (Third Place) an overnight stay at Seda Hotel Nuvali and a full day pass at Republic Wake Park Nuvali.

 Register at www.ayalamallsultimatesummersquad.com and see you at Market! Market! (May 6-7), Circuit Makati (May 13-14), Vertis North (May 20-21), Solenad (May 27-28) and MarQuee (June 3).

 BillboardPH Music Trip: Music That Moves

Another means to let off steam is to bust a groove on the dance floor. At Playsound: The BillboardPH Music Trip, Ayala Malls takes you on a musical journey, tracing the evolution of your favorite beats and rhythms from the swinging ‘60s, disco era,‘80s pop, ‘90s grunge and beyond!  Travel through time and reminisce, learn, and PLAY! The Playground will have digital exhibits, interactive music charts and games, a special live show, videos, a unique photo booth, and more. PlaySound is for all ages and music fans, so enjoy a music-filled weekend at Trinoma (May 13-14), Glorietta (May 20-21), and Alabang Town Center (May 27-28).

PGF: Game On!

For many, instead of the great outdoors, they prefer spending their free time battling it out in the virtual world. The country’s most talented gamers will come together on April 28-30 at TriNoMa for the Pinoy Game Fest. Be with kindred spirits and share your love for online games. Hosted by Globe, the Pinoy Game Fest will bring together more than 15,000 gamers, making it one of the biggest gatherings of enthusiasts. So put on your head gear and see you at the digital arena!

Snap a Pic: Pose & Play
Post pics or it didn’t happen! On April 21, Ayala Malls will set up quirky art installations to help bring your summer selfies and groufies to life. Play with colorful sets and have fun putting together your Instagram-worthy photo shoot. You never know, you just might become the next viral hit!

With Ayala Malls’ PLAY, discover the numerous definitions of fun.

Inspire Creativity Through Summer Art Programs at Global Art

Instead of just letting them waste time playing all day, why not keep your kids busy with something they can enjoy and help them achieve their potential?

Summer is the best time to involve your kids in a myriad of activities that will make their vacation fun and memorable like art programs that will not only keep them busy but will inspire creativity as well.

Creating art fuels the imagination and takes it a step further.  It is also a way of unraveling what hidden talents a child has. 

This is what Global Art offers. It is  school where toddlers, teenagers and even adults are encouraged to unleash their creative potential through world-class art enrichment programs.

There are several summer art programs that Global Art offers. One is  Creative Drawing. This motivates children to create a one of a kind artwork and not just copy a teacher’s sample.  Young as they are, students will be inspired to think every step of the way (think of a story that inspires the artwork, drawing composition, decide on angles and sizes of the objects of the drawing, and what colors to use). Then the teacher will help him/her draw based on the child’s story and using Global Art’s coloring techniques to make drawings come alive.

Another popular program is Acrylic Painting. Here, children learn how to paint a still life,  a landscape and even a portrait using acrylic paints and brushes.  Properly coached by teachers, they will be taught different techniques including knife painting.

Global Art also offers another exciting art program which is  Clay Art.  Children will enjoy rolling, squeezing, twirling, and pulling clay to create different objects. An interesting aspect of these classes is the "Cultural Program" where students learn the different cultures and customs of a country including its landmarks and create a miniature of them through clay and painting.

Other art packages to choose from are :

• 2 Hours Workshop  for busy kids who do not have many hours to learn art
• Multimedia Course (Creative Drawing, Painting and Clay)  or the Sampler Program 
• Drawing And Sketching (for 13 yrs old and above)
• Cartoon and Comic (for 7yrs old and above)

Make summer exciting and fun for your kids. Help them express themselves creatively. And art is a good medium to this.

Global Art has 15 branches throughout Metro Manila, Pampanga, Cebu,  Davao and General santos. 

Visit their website - www.globalart.com.ph - for a complete list of their  branches.

For further information and inquiries on Global Art Philippines, visit or call their main office at Unit 101, Sekai Center, 368 Ortigas Avenue corner Madison Street, Greenhills, San Juan; Tel no. 726-0435. Like them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/globalartphils/.

Fly away to 2017 Billboard Music Awards with RTL CBS Entertainment and Monster RX 93.1

RTL CBS Entertainment and Monster RX 931 invite all music fans for a chance to win a once-in-a-lifetime experience to catch the 2017 Billboard Music Awards live in Las Vegas.

Tune in to Monster RX 93.1 from 6:00AM – 10:00AM from April 24 to April 28, 2017, and wait for the DJ’s cue to call and take your shot at this exciting promo. Put your music knowledge to the test as you answer trivia questions posted on Monster’s Facebook page about the Billboard Music Awards and RTL CBS Entertainment.

Winners selected each day become qualifiers for the final raffle to be drawn and announced on May 3, 2017.  The lucky winner and a friend will go on a four-day, three-night all-expense paid trip to Las Vegas to catch the hottest music acts perform live at the 2017 Billboard Music Awards at the T-Mobile Arena on May 21, 2017. Participants must have a valid U.S. Visa and Philippine Passport valid for the next six months.

The 2017 Billboard Music Awards will air first and exclusive, and live from the U.S., on RTL CBS Entertainment on May 22, 8:00 AM. Follow https://www.facebook.com/RTLCBSEntertainment/ and https://www.facebook.com/rx931/ for more details.

A Goldi-Good Time at the Goldilocks Junior Club Fun Day

Back in my days, summer was all about going out--not out to party but to play out in the streets with friends, under the scorching heat of the sun. We chased each other, played tumbang preso, skipping rope, piko, syato, sipa, Step No, patintero etc..

If there was a downside to all the high tech devices our children could easily get their hands on, with Youtube as their nanny and all the installed games on their gadgets, playing those traditional games have become the stuff of parties, fiestas and even TV show games.

That is why as part of its 50th year celebration, Goldilocks Bakeshop brought back and introduced to these young kids several pinoy games at the Junior Club Fun Day held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena Music Hall, last week.

Early in the day, registered Goldilocks Junior Club members received a free shirt, meals, and other freebies when they arrived. The festivities prompted curious onlookers to sign up for a membership and avail of its numerous perks.

Event host and sports broadcasting personality Chiqui Reyes was on hand to make sure that the program went smoothly, providing fun and excitement for everyone.

A notable theme throughout the entire day was the emphasis on classic Filipino childhood games. Indeed, particIpants and members of the audience were able to reconnect with their Filipino heritage through games like sipa, tumbang preso, and piko, which brought back fond memories of playing outside on the street with friends.

“At a time when most kids’ idea of fun is to be isolated in a virtual world of screens and games, Goldilocks wanted to remind them about the joy of group interaction and physical play,” noted Goldilocks Marketing Director Cherry Caluya. “These larong Pinoy form a delightful part of our Filipino customs, and today’s children will greatly benefit from learning them,” she added.

In addition to the classic Pinoy games, attendees were entertained by the Bearkada Bears, who had a dance number and a photo session with the crowd.  Members were also able to participate in a DYC (Decorate Your Cake) session, and join in on a traditional pabitin game with cool prizes and goodies.


The country’s number one bakeshop made sure that the Goldilocks Junior Club Fun Day was a day to remember for everyone.

For more information about the Goldilocks Junior Club, log on to www.goldilocks.com.ph, or join the conversation through Facebook or Twitter via GoldilocksPH

Try new beverage recipes created by Starbucks baristas

Starbucks has been known to handcraft every beverage to fit your needs, with a level of personalization that creates the perfect customized beverage every time.

It’s not unusual to find your Starbucks barista suggest ways on how to personalize your usual beverage from time to time. After all, it’s the best way to discover your next favorite beverage.

Starbucks baristas develop their artistry and passion for coffee on a daily basis. To showcase this creativity – the precision and art that goes into handcrafting every cup of coffee, Starbucks Philippines has encouraged their baristas to submit their original espresso-based beverage recipes.

A total of 22 beverage recipes were submitted from their districts and three were chosen to be featured online through the Starbucks Philippines Facebook page. The three 'Barista Favorites' are Dark Chocolate Espresso Fusion, Iced Double Shot Vanilla Mocha and Iced Spice White Chocolate Mocha Macchiato. 

For those who love chocolate and coffee together, the Dark Chocolate Espresso Fusion, made by Cyndy Gangaramani, store manager of Starbucks Reserve 14 Jupiter, is a blend of Dark Mocha and White Chocolate Mocha, mixed with milk and a shot of espresso and finished with a caramel drizzle on top.

Meanwhile, Richard Lim from Starbucks Plaza 100 Dela Rosa, Makati created the Iced Double Shot Vanilla Mocha. It is an Iced Mocha with an extra shot of espresso, vanilla syrup, breve, no whip and brown sugar on top to give it crunch.

This is perfect for stressful days.

Lastly, the Iced Spice White Chocolate Macchiato, handcrafted by Calvin Sanchez from Starbucks 9 Macapagal Blvd., is a combination of White Chocolate Mocha sauce and Irish Crème syrup, mixed with milk and finished with Ristretto shots. It is topped with foam and a dash of cinnamon powder for those who want a little excitement in their drinks.

The best thing about these three beverages is that it's available all year round in any of your favorite Starbucks stores. So anytime you crave these special customized beverages, you can ask your favorite barista to whip it up.

Interested in learning more about the recipes for these three drinks? Visit the Starbucks Philippines Youtube Channel and Facebook Page.

HOOQ celebrates 2nd anniversary with new partners

HOOQ – the largest Video on Demand service in South-East Asia—celebrates its 2nd anniversary on April 19. The event was attended by HOOQ executives, celebrity guests headed by Xian Lim and hosted by Celebrity TV and Radio Host Tim Yap.

HOOQ has had a productive and successful two years since its inception, delivering the best of both Asian and Hollywood entertainment to homes across Asia.

HOOQ has subscribers in the millions, all of whom can enjoy over 30,000 hours of quality entertainment, and this will be increased with new partnerships from Paramount Pictures, BBC Worldwide and Endamol Shine.

Further to this, HOOQ today announced a new service that delivers movies fresh from the cinema to your home – Transactional VOD (TVOD).  This allows blockbuster movies to hit the service within three months of their theatrical release.  To top it all off, customers subscribing to the current Subscription VOD (SVOD) service will be able to enjoy one movie from the TVOD library each month as part of their SVOD subscription at no additional cost!

“Securing new partners such as Paramount pictures, BBC and Endemol Shine are a testament to the fact that HOOQ has the right formula to deliver quality entertainment to Asian homes, with a balance of the best Asian films and dramas alongside solid Hollywood blockbusters and series.  We have never been more elated and will continue to push boundaries to evolve and stay committed to delivering the best entertainment to our customers with new services such as TVOD that bring movies to your homes quicker than ever before – even as part of your SVOD subscription,” said Chief Executive Officer of HOOQ, Mr Peter Bithos.

A FORMULA FOR SUCCESS
Built in Asia for Asia, HOOQ’s formula has been to be a subscription video-on-demand service, which continuously innovates and delivers the best quality entertainment.  Whether it is HOOQ’s world first download capability for Hollywood, its weekly pricing or its ad-free freemium model, HOOQ has continue to evolve its business model for Asia.  This has proven successful, with the platform securing millions of subscribers across Asia.  This success comes from HOOQ’s strategy of combining the best Asian and Hollywood content with a solid distribution partner network of the top telcos and broadband providers in the region including AIS, Airtel, Globe Telecom, Telkom, and Telkomsel, just to name a few.

“In the Philippines, we made sure to put together the best Filipino content for our subscribers with a combination of the top local studios and independent filmmakers. This combined with HOOQ’s strategy of serving premium Hollywood content, as well as our key distribution partnership with Globe has contributed to making HOOQ the regional leader,” says Ms. Jane Cruz-Walker, HOOQ Philippines Country Manager.

LATEST MOVIES FROM THE CINEMAS NOW FOR RENT ON HOOQ
HOOQ’s new TVOD service not only gives access to movies from the cinemas to your home, HOOQ subscribers will get access to watch any 1 TVOD movie per month as part of their current subscription, while additional movies can be rented for just P125.00 each.  There will be new movies uploaded each month from studios such as Sony Pictures, Warner Bros., Disney, Dreamworks and Pixar with titles such as Arrival, Underworld: Blood Wars, Fantastic Beasts and How to Find Them, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, just to name a few.  With this  new feature, HOOQ customers can now enjoy the largest library of Hollywood and Asian hits, TV series same day as the US, as well as the latest movies fresh off the cinemas!

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO ON HOOQ
In the Philippines, HOOQ has inked exclusive deals with Regal Entertainment and Viva Communications for digital rights to their new movies within 3 months of theatrical release.  Recent hits such as Camp Sawi, Bakit Lahat ng Guapo May Boyfriend & I Love You to Death have already debuted on HOOQ and are consistently in the top 10 list of most watched content by subscribers.  Mano Po 7, Die Beautiful, The Escort, and My Rebound Girl will be on HOOQ within the next quarter, with newly released movies to follow throughout the year.

In addition, HOOQ is bolstering its line-up of Hollywood studio partnerships consisting of Sony Pictures, Warner Bros., Disney, Dreamworks, Lionsgate, Miramax, Starz and over a hundred Asian studios. New hit series are now available from Endamol Shine and BBC including Secret Diary of a Call Girl, Mistresses and Wolf Hall.  The full catalog of DC shows are now also on HOOQ, including Legends of Tomorrow, Arrow and Gotham.  Meanwhile Supergirl, Lucifer and Powerless are available to stream within 24 hours of US airing.

HOW TO GET HOOQ
It’s easy to get HOOQ’d.  Customers can simply download the HOOQ app from Apple Store or Google Play, sign up or log in, to access HOOQ’s library of top Hollywood and Asian hits anytime, anywhere and on any device include computers, smartphones, tablets, set-top boxes, smart TVs via Google Chromecast and all Apple devices.

Globe At Home customers can get up to 6 months access to HOOQ with plans P1,299 and up, while Globe mobile customers can also get up to 6 months trial on selected prepaid and postpaid plans.   You may also visit www.hooq.tv to sign up for a 7-day free trial.