Daily Newsmakers

Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rocking Eve With Ryan Seacrest 2017 1 January 2017, Starts 9am (8am BKK/JKT) NIALL HORAN, LUKAS GRAHAM, SHAWN MENDES, EMELI SANDE AND FIFTH HARMONY FEATURING KID INK AND TY DOLLA $IGN, TO ROCK THE WEST COAST CELEBRATION OF “DICK CLARK’S NEW YEAR’S ROCKIN’ EVE WITH RYAN SEACREST 2017” WITH PERFORMANCES FROM THE BILLBOARD HOLLYWOOD PARTY

Caltex™ Havoline® ambassador and Baguio-based fighter Mark Striegl dominated the Bulgarian Sotir Kichukov as they faced off in the cage at ONE: Age of Domination at the Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay last December 2.

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.

Family dinners at home are possible with the right kitchen appliances Eating together at home is a time-honored practice among Filipinos, but the daily demands of work and school—not to mention traffic—are making it harder to sit with family at the dinner table.

Holiday shopping for gifts can be more meaningful if it offers the giver a chance to share the spirit of the season with underprivileged children. For 6 years now, SM has been doing just that through its SM Cares Bears of Joy.

Globe signs MoA with Hineleban Foundation, Inc. on five-year Rainforestation Program in Bukidnon and Lanao del Sur              Leading telecommunications company Globe Telecom, together with its thousands of iPhone 7 customers, collaborates with Hineleban Foundation, Inc. on the Rainforestation of Six Mountain Ranges of Mindanao as part of the company’s commitment to sustainable development and good corporate citizenship.

It’s the holiday season once again and if you’re looking for the perfect gift for the music lover or sports buff in your life, Power Mac Center may just have the answer for you! Introducing the  JBL Reflect Aware earphones , the world’s first sport earphone with noise cancellation and adaptive noise control. Designed to help the wearer stay aware while staying active, the JBL Reflect Aware has best-in-class noise cancellation properties for a more focused workout, while still being able to mix in environmental sound for greater awareness of surroundings. And because it’s JBL, expect its signature engineering of the precise, naturally articulated sound found in high-end cinemas, arenas, and recording studios around the world.

Traditions are essential in every culture and create different experiences for everyone. For Filipinos, the Christmas season is one of the most celebrated traditions across the nation. As early as September, malls, establishments, and even homes are already decked out in holiday colors as families make plans for their usual Christmas activities. 

In an economy where micro, small, and medium enterprises comprise 99.6% of all registered business, navigating through commerce in the Philippines can prove to be a hefty lot. Much of it is headlined by the humble   sari-sari   store, where anyone can purchase every good imaginable at his cost and convenience. But right at the cusp of the information age, even our mom and pop shops would have to learn to grow to sustain their economic presence and performance.

Holiday season has put its game face on –Christmas carols are playing regularly on radio, malls are decked with tinsel and giant ornaments, and friends and family are already in the zone in completing their wish lists. Now may be the perfect time for a gift-giving spree, but what if you’re on a tight budget and can’t afford to spend all your money in one go?

This Holiday Season may be the best time to try shopping at the Best Value Factory Food Outlet, one of the best kept secrets in the industry. And best of all, unlike other warehouse outlets, you don’t need a membership. People in the food industry and those with small and medium scale food businesses have been flocking to Best Value even before they opened their doors to the public at large – and now you can, too.

Outstanding Filipino Contestant On The X Factor UK To Showcase Vocal Prowess That Wowed Judges On The Largest Talent Competition In The World RTL CBS Entertainment, the regional broadcaster for the 21 st Asian Television Awards, has confirmed the participation of Ivy Grace Paredes, the Filipino singer who impressed the judges on the current season of The X Factor UK . The 33-year-old songster known for her powerful vocals will take the stage at this year’s Asian Television Awards to shine as she did on the largest talent competition in the world.

Every month...every week...every day, a new smartphone seems to come out. With so many brands and models to choose from, how can you be sure to get the right one for you? Well, with the recent launch of the ZenFone 3, you are about to find out why the choice is obvious and you won’t be able to resist wanting one!

Stay connected with 5 days of unlimited data roaming while travelling The advent of budget airlines and affordable rates give more people an opportunity to plan their trips abroad whether it is for work or vacation. Alongside flights and accommodation details, connectivity has become an essential to be able to keep in touch and share experiences real-time.

Looking to escape the urban jungle for just a spell? As part of its #LovetoClick promotion, Citi Credit Cards recently launched a new offer for a sweet escapade you can’t resist. Avail of a deal at one of the largest hospitality and leisure companies in Asia Pacific, MINOR Hotels, and save up to 40% off your next getaway!

Get ready for the coolest surprise from Jollibee: the Jollibee Creamy Floats in Chocolate and Coffee are back! The country’s number one fastfood chain is giving its customers another reason to indulge their Jolly cravings with this specialty beverage line-up. Made from real coffee and chocolate, these beverages offer the perfect indulgent drinks you deserve! The Jollibee Chocolate and Coffee Floats are topped with vanilla soft-serve and Jollibee’s well-loved chocolate syrup for a treat packed with cool, creamy indulgence. These Creamy Floats are the perfect reward to a long day at school or work, or as a way to celebrate anything and everything.

Shopee, one of the leading mobile marketplaces in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, announced the November 11 launch of its Shopee Christmas Time deals, officially starting the online shopping holiday countdown. Known for celebrating the longest Christmas season in the world, Filipinos will be able to enjoy thousands of deals on a lot of items they want and need, ranging from lip kits, today’s trendiest clothes to some of the most popular toys of the year.

Consistent with its value on good governance, SM maintained its position as one of the country’s top taxpayers for taxable year 2015. The mall company received several awards from different communities where it emerged as the no. 1 taxpayer in the Local Business Tax and Real Property Tax categories, while keeping its top positions in other localities spread across the country.

Over P700,000 in cash prizes at stake The much-awaited painting competition for young artists is back! The 31st edition of the DPC-PLDT Visual Arts Competition (VAC 31) takes off on November 8, 2016 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Tanghalang Manuel Conde. The launch, followed by a VAC 31 roadshow in north and south Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao, celebrates the rich creative talent of fine arts students across the country. 

Top brands and amazing deals for your Christmas shopping The biggest online shopping event in Southeast Asia kicks off on  November 11, 2016  with the participation of more than 12,500 local and international brands and 6,000 merchants. This month-long shopping event is Lazada’s fifth  Online Revolution  since its launch in 2012. This year’s theme is ‘Brands for All,’ putting customers’ favorite brands in the spotlight. Customers can expect jaw-dropping, well-curated offers, and exclusive launches of branded items.

For the first time in more than two decades, Wilbros Live is thrilled to announce that Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Bryan Adams is finally coming to Manila on January 18, 2017 at the Araneta Coliseum for his GET UP World tour.

Solid Pattern Home Builders is giving away brand-new Toyota Vios 2017 units at the Lamudi Housing Fair , happening on November 18 to 20, 2016, at Megatrade Hall 3, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong. This exclusive offer is open to all Housing Fair attendees who will sign spot-on cash contract with Solid Pattern Home Builders worth Php4.32 million.

Today, with the wave of exciting technological innovations and new apps, people are becoming more preoccupied with their gadgets. Whether it means replying to important work emails, keeping attuned to the latest updates on social media, or fighting off and catching virtual monsters, this new normal of being glued to our screens has kept us from experiencing important and joyous face-to-face moments with family members and loved ones.

The Philippines today is at the cusp of new and great opportunities. With the impending rise to power of new national leaders, the emergence of a more vigilant Filipino people, the advent of the ASEAN integration, and overall improvements in various global and national indicators, the challenge is not anymore survival, or development, but to ride the momentum. The call of the hour is to bring the country to new and greater heights, towards sustainable prosperity. The greater need is to deliver inclusive growth for all Filipinos. The mandate for PMAP is to strategically position people – Filipino human capital, as the main driver of the movement. For this is the time to tHRive!

Network unveils channels’ new look and more exciting things ahead Solar Entertainment Corporation remains to be the largest content provider and channel operator in Southeast Asia. The network is comprised of seven (7) channels—ETC, 2nd Avenue, Jack TV, CT, Solar Sports, Basketball TV, and NBA Premium. The viewers are in for a treat when they tune in to Solar Entertainment’s roster of channels on Sunday, October 16, as the first integrated rebranding execution of the channels will be revealed.

Emphasizing that government support is essential in enhancing ICT development in the country to further boost economic growth and create employment opportunities, Globe Telecom reiterates call for closer collaboration with the government in developing key telecommunication infrastructure. “Time and again, we continue to call on the government to help develop broadband access in the Philippines by investing in internet infrastructure in rural and far-flung areas of the country. There is no substitute for government support if we are to achieve social inclusion of all communities as we aspire for further economic growth,” Globe President & CEO Ernest Cu said, emphasizing that development of broadband infrastructure is particularly essential in communities where even basic infrastructure services such as roads and bridges are lacking.

When it comes to choosing appliances for the house, it’s already a non-negotiable to choose one that not only provides comfort and convenience, but also one that gives big electricity savings. Making such a decision will help home-owners save money so they can focus on the more important things in life: their family. The same principle applies to air conditioners. Carrier Philippines makes choosing easieras they launch the Carrier Crystal Inverter, its latest iteration in its impressive lineup of High Wall Split-Type air conditioners that gives quality cooling without worrying on electricity cost.

Lamudi Philippines, the biggest real estate portal in the country today is organizing another milestone event for the property sector. Slated on November 18 to 20, 2016, the Lamudi Housing Fair will be the largest housing event in the country to feature the widest selection of properties and offer exclusive discounts to home buyers and property investors. To be held in Megatrade Hall 3, SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City, the housing fair is expected to attract more than 5,000 attendees.

                Kickstart Ventures enjoins local startups to participate in the second installment of Singtel Innov8’s global call to create innovative solutions for real world business challenges.  This follows the success and momentum of the initial Innov8 Connect programme launched in January 2016 which attracted over 120 submissions from startups across 22 countries.                 “Through the second round of Innov8 Connect, Philippine startups are given another opportunity to realize their global growth aspirations.  Kickstart, through Innov8 Connect, is opening doors for them to penetrate the global market as part of our mission to break down barriers and build bridges between the business community and the startup founders,” said Minette Navarrete, President of Kickstart, a wholly-owned venture capital firm of G...

The signature Globe prefix 917 always had a special bond to most of the company's customers, especially those who are loyal to the service for over 10 years. Brought to life through the actual date, September 17, this month serves as the perfect time to set a wonderful celebration nationwide.   Through delightful and rewarding experiences, Globe expresses its gratitude to all its customers for their continued patronage, making it the country’s leading mobile brand. This month, all Globe customers nationwide are in for an exciting line-up of events, treats and exclusive deals from shopping to food and travel.

ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG), the world’s undisputed no.1 gaming brand opens ROG Master 2016 Philippine qualifiers to professional gamers and enthusiasts. ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) the world’s undisputed no.1 gaming brand is proud to announce that the ROG Masters 2016 Philippine qualifiers is now open for registrations for both DOTA 2 and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO). The ROG Masters is an action-packed and exciting gaming event that challenges both professional gamers and enthusiasts to show what they got in terms of strategy and tactics in games like DOTA 2 and CS:GO. The ROG Masters is considered as one of Asia’s largest eSports tournament with a grand prize amounting to $200,000 for the world championship and PHP 115,000 for local qualifiers.

Haier’s inverter tech brings energy savings beyond standards Inverter technology has revolutionized home appliances, bringing greater energy efficiencies that translate to more savings. In particular, refrigerators—which traditionally consume almost 1,800kwh/year—are now being designed with digital inverter compressors that cut down electricity consumption from about 500 to 380kwh/year.

What do Oprah Winfrey, Paul McCartney, Michael Jordan and Lebron James have in common? They’re all incredibly successful, hard-working and geniuses in their field, but many people don’t know that they all practice meditation. Oprah said that meditation has made her “1,000 times better”. Michael Jordan and Lebron James, both famous athletes, practiced meditation to sharpen focus and improve concentration. Steve Jobs, the founder of Apple, was a well-known meditation practitioner. As stated by his biographer Walter Isaacson, “Your intuition starts to blossom and you start to see things more clearly and be in the present more. Your mind just slows down, and you see a tremendous expanse in the moment. You see so much more than you could see before. It's a discipline; you have to practice it.”

Stay on top of safer, more efficient electrical and data systems with attractive, industrial-grade labels Disorganized, mislabeled wires, panels, and boards can slow down an electrician, engineer, or IT professional during instances when rebooting systems as quickly as possible is critical. Creating efficient, safe, and more organized electrical and data systems is as easy as a press of a single button with the Brother P-Touch line of professional labeling machines and TZe industrial-grade tapes.

The Filipino Portrait Artists’ Guild, Inc. (FPAGI), a group of portrait artists based in Manila, will be opening their first group show on August 25, Thursday, 5 pm at Gateway Gallery.   The 21 artist-members have lined up various figurative paintings that depict the Filipino at work, during leisure, in motion and at rest. The works are indicative of the artists’ level of understanding of the human figure in relation to his or her environment, showing variety of styles, composition and influence.

From city streets to parks and malls, everyone is definitely on-the-go just to catch their next Pokémon to level up! Taking Filipino gamers by storm, here are some safety tips to remember the next time you and your friends go out to catch, drop lures and conquer gyms! Globe Prepaid customers can extend the fun by downloading the new Globe Switch app! On Globe Switch, avail of the free 1GB mobile data and 30 days free access to Pokémon Go starting August 20, 2016. Globe Switch offers the best online deals as well as over 3 GB worth of free access to over 50 of the most popular apps in the market. viva manilena

MediCard, a leading health maintenance organization (HMO) provider, has partnered with Hanjin Subic Shipyard to provide innovative, advanced and efficient quality health service to its employees. Hanjin Subic Shipyard is the 4 th largest shipyard in the world and the sole contractor of Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction-Philippines (HHIC-Phil).  With this partnership, Hanjin Subic Shipyard employees now have access to MediCard’s wide network of more than 1,000 accredited hospitals and clinics and over 40,000 accredited doctors nationwide.  In photo are HHIC-Tech President Mr. Park No Joon, HHIC-Phil Managing Director Mr. Jun Woo Yoon, Subic Shipbuilder Corporation President Mr. Kim Tae Jeon, MediCard President and CEO Dr. Nicky S. Montoya, MediCard COO Atty. Juan Andres S. Montoya and MediCard AVP for Sales and Business Development Maricel L. Torres.

Judging by the amount  of coffee shops and other restaurants that serves good coffee, there really can’t be any adult in this great big world that has never tried coffee. Now, if we are to look beyond those coffee beans and grounds we see in these  coffee shops around town, and wanting to learn and appreciate more about what goes inside those mugs and cups, the Barista & Coffee Academy of Asia is the center that teaches one to look beyond the cup. Short courses are being offered by the BARISTA & COFFEE ACADEMY OF ASIA on Brewing Practice, Barista 101, Brewing Practice, Coffee Business Management, Menu Development, Caf é Operations. High Tea, and Cocktails this August.

Meralco announced that overall electricity rates this August went down by Php 0.11 per kilowatt hour (kWh) for its residential customers. Households consuming 200 kWh will experience a reduction of around Php 22 in their electricity bill. Meralco Public Information Office Head Joe Zaldarriaga (in photo) explained that the overall rate decrease was due to the downward movement in the generation charge. Meralco also reiterated safety tips with the onset of rainy season. For tips and other information, visit www.meralco.com.ph or follow its Twitter (@meralco) or Facebook (facebook.com/meralco) accounts. viva manilena

Repertory Philippines, the premier producer of thought-provoking and entertaining straight plays and musicals, is launching its Theater for Young Audiences program for 2016, with child-friendly performances of Hansel and Gretel .

In 2012, Pusod tapped Globe for the use of ICT to enhance implementation of the Taal Volcano Protected Landscape (TVPL) Management Plan designed to ensure the economic and environmental sustainability of the Taal Lake ecosystem which covers 13 municipalities and 3 cities in Batangas and Cavite. One of the key programs implemented by Globe and Pusod to address the area’s environmental issues is the promotion of ecotourism which gives a low-impact alternative to commercial tourism.  This not only helps protect the environment but also provides livelihood to communities around the lake.

One with the legions of Filipinos excited for the arrival of Pokemon GO in the country, leading mobile services provider Smart Communications has announced that it will give subscribers 7 days of free data access to Pokemon GO upon the launch of the hit game in the Philippines. This offer is available on both Android and iOS users.

Globe Telecom is ready to transmit voice calls for emergency hotline 911 and complaint hotline 8888 on August 1, as directed by the government. We are also expediting migration of our system to immediately enable transmission of SMS or text messages thru 8888 and we are confident that we will be able to achieve this target within the timeframe of 30-45 days given to us by the government. As suggested by the government to discourage prank calls, we would also like to inform our customers that those calling the hotlines will incur regular voice charges plus an additional P5/call for those calling the 911 hotline.  As a telecommunications provider, Globe recognizes the importance of such communication tool for the government to effectively carry out its initiatives for the benefit of the public. — Atty. Froilan Castelo, Globe General Counsel.

Meringue, Bars and Cookies at The Maya Kitchen   Learn how to bake, make that perfect cup of coffee and cook a great meal as The Maya Kitchen brings you a myriad of classes this month of August.             Basic Baking is on  August 2-5 , 9-12, 23-26 and  August 30-September 2 ,  Tuesday -Friday,  9am-2pm .   Learn basic baking techniques applicable to small and commercial scale production of recipes and formulations of quick breads, pies, cookies, cakes and other bread varieties. Class fee is P8,000.