Brave dangers with VALVRAVE The Liberator on Animax Asia

ANIMAX, Asia’s first channel specializing in anime programming, premiered the action-packed anime series, VALVRAVE The Liberator last November 3. As the channel’s latest blockbuster title, the edgy sci-fi and mecha series will bring exhilarating action into our world with 2 explosive seasons airing back-to-back.

Created by Sunrise Animation Studio (Cowboy Bebop, Mobile Suit Gundam), VALVRAVE The Liberator is set in a world where 70% of the human population lives in space. The story follows a peace-loving high-school student named Haruto Tokishima. The once peaceful world he lived in has come crashing down when his home is invaded by the military forces of Dorssia Military Pact Federation. In a strange twist of fate, he discovers a mysterious humanoid weapon called the VALVRAVE. To operate the mecha (machine) and save his loved ones, Haruto has to give up his own humanity. Will he be able to liberate the world with his newly acquired powers?

Multiple spin-offs to satisfy fans

Lauded by critics and fans alike for the unconventional delivery of plot, the success of the anime series went beyond the tube. It was subsequently adapted into manga and had two light novels published.

Viewers of Animax Asia will get to catch all the mecha action two seasons in a row, and discover the amazing abilities the mysterious VALVRAVE holds.

Catch VALVRAVE The Liberator every Monday to Wednesday at 11PM (PH), first and exclusively on Animax Asia.

Animax is available on SKYCable Channel 46 and Cignal Digital TV Channel 34.

ABOUT ANIMAX ASIA

Launched on 1 January 2004, Animax is Asia’s first channel brand specializing in Japanese animation – anime. Animax offers a wide variety of anime programs from across the most popular genres including action, romance, horror, supernatural, sci-fi, comedy and slice-of-life.

Animax is home to some of the biggest anime titles in the world that enjoy great following across the region. In addition, the channel created TV history in April 2009 by becoming the world’s first regional broadcaster to air an anime series at the same time as Japan and followed that with six other simulcast anime series. Currently reaching 40 million viewers in 46 million homes across 17 markets in Asia, Animax aims to offer anime programming for everyone.

Beyond television screens, Animax also actively engages its audiences at local events, including its signature Animax Carnival that has rolled out in Malaysia, the Philippines, and Taiwan. See www.animax-asia.com for more.

**Via Press Release

A Night of Horror at the Night Sky Cinema

We were sure in for a lot of treats last October 25 in Nuvali, Laguna. Prepping the night for the Halloween season, SKY CABLE and NUVALI featured three (3) horror flicks in an outdoor-screening event dubbed as "Night Sky Cinema Presents: Fright Night at The Fields." 

Hosted by DJ Dylan of NU 107.5, the event started at around 7PM with an exciting game before we braced ourselves for the first featured film of the night, Zombieland. The organizers promised a scary to scariest sequence and kept it as the Sixth Sense aired next. The night caps it off with The Conjuring which the Motion Picture Association of America categorized as Rated R for having scenes of disturbing violence and terror according to the IMDB.com.

Exciting games, food fair and roaming creatures of the night complete its Carnage Carnival Theme. For each of the film's interval, games like the "Zombie Hunter" where you chase zombies for a change, and you can also take photos with them around the area or at the "Photo Haunt Wall." There's also "Zombie Mystery" you can solve to win exciting prizes.

The Night Sky Cinema Presents: Fright Night Halloween outdoor screening was brought to life by the efforts of Nuvali and Sky Cable presented by Nutrilin, along with La Filipina, Yellow Cab, Amaia, OLX, and Pambatang Solmux.

For more info, log on to http://nuvali.ph/ or follow Nuvali on Facebeek, Twitter, and Instagram @NuvaliOfficial

SONY CHANNEL HITS THE PHILIPPINE AIRWAVES

SONY PICTURES TELEVISION NETWORKS, ASIA dazzled viewers in the Philippines with a new look for beTV. Debuting last October 15, Sony Channel is set to be the premier destination for female-skewing Hollywood entertainment.

Sony Channel features some of the most captivating and talked-about drama, comedy, lifestyle and reality programs on TV, all airing close to the U.S. telecasts, together with popular feel-good movies. New programming include “How to Get Away with Murder,” the latest drama from executive producer Shonda Rhimes (“Scandal”, “Grey’s Anatomy”). Other new series coming to Sony Channel include White House drama “Madam Secretary,” starring Téa Leoni; romantic comedy “Manhattan Love Story”; as well as the comedic drama “Jane The Virgin.”

Click to read more about Manhattan Love Story

“We believe there is an opportunity in the Philippines for a general entertainment destination that is female focused, but also male inclusive. These four new series are smart, edgy and driven by strong women -- a perfect fit for the new Sony Channel brand,” said Hui Keng Ang, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Networks, Asia, Sony Pictures Television.

Click to read more about Jane the Virgin 

These series will join a variety of popular returning programs on Sony Channel, including pulsating medical drama “The Night Shift,” starring Eoin Macken (“Merlin”), which debuted as the top scripted series last summer in the U.S.; musical drama “Nashville,” which follows the struggles of the fading queen of country music and a rising young star respectively played by Emmy-nominated Connie Britton (“Friday Night Lights”) and Golden Globe-nominated Hayden Panettiere (“Heroes”); along with reality competition “Cupcake Wars” and dating series “The Millionaire Matchmaker.”

Click to read about How To Get Away With Murder 

Fresh, confident and stylish, with a dash of clever wit, Sony Channel is visually stunning with a brand identity that perfectly complements its line-up of high calibre programming. 

Click to read about Madam Secretary 

ABOUT SONY PICTURES TELEVISION NETWORKS, ASIA

Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia was established in 1997 with Singapore as the Asian headquarters of Sony Pictures Television’s networks business. It operates six ad-supported 24/7 channels which are wholly-owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment.

AXN is the home of thrilling entertainment; beTV is the place to be for the best of TV; Sony Channel is the stunning, premier destination for best of female-skewing Hollywood entertainment; Animax offers anime for all; ONE is powered by prime and current South Korean entertainment content; and GEM serves up star-studded and popular general entertainment programming from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and South Korea.

Sony Channel will be seen on SKYCable Channel 35, Cignal Digital TV Channel 60, Destiny Cable Channel 62, and Cable Link Channel 39.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

1. What is Sony Channel?

Sony Channel is the premier destination for the biggest and best in Hollywood Entertainment.

Designed for the socially connected viewer, Sony Channel spotlights the most captivating, talked about shows on TV, airing close to the U.S telecasts. From dramas and comedies to lifestyle and reality programming, this is television that you live, breathe and crave.

2. Why is beTV being refreshed to Sony Channel?

Sony enjoys a reputation in the Philippines as a leading provider of electronic products ranging from computers and TV sets to music and mobile phones. What many consumers may not realize is that Sony is also a powerhouse in general entertainment, operating a successful portfolio of six English and Asian language content channels across Asia, including the number one English general entertainment pay-TV channel in the region, AXN.

In the Philippines, AXN has provided thrilling entertainment to our viewers for many years, and as a result, the channel has been consistently top in ratings. Given this, we believe that a Sony-branded channel offering a whole new entertainment experience will make for a recognizable and ideal companion to AXN for our audience

3. What sets Sony Channel apart from beTV?

Sony Channel will remain a female-skewing English general entertainment channel, however, we’ve introduced a brand identity that is truly stunning, and a fresh line up of the biggest and best entertainment from Hollywood, which air fresh from the U.S telecasts.

4. What sets Sony Channel apart from other female-skewed channels in the territory?

The new look Sony Channel cannot be compared. The look of the channel is visually mesmerizing, akin to viewing contemporary art, while our programming line-up features Hollywood’s most buzz-worthy new shows: How to Get Away with Murder, Jane the Virgin, Madam Secretary, and Manhattan Love Story to name a few. 

Sony Channel will feature social integration for added engagement across Facebook, Twitter accounts and on our new website, http://www.sonychannelasia.com/. We hope Sony Channel will become a pervasive part of our viewers’ lives, that it extends beyond TV to become a branded lifestyle experience.

5. Who is the target viewer of Sony Channel?

A female skewing, male inclusive audience who loves to escape, engage and lose themselves in premium content. Sony Channel viewers are modern, social, stylish and aspirational. Sony Channel will appeal to a core target of females, ages 25-49.

6. What are some of the new types of programs featured on Sony Channel?

Sony Channel offers an exciting mix of dramas, comedies, lifestyle and reality programming. It will also showcase some of Hollywood’s most celebrated movies. 

7. Where can I find my favorite beTV programs?

Sony Channel will continue to offer your favorite returning series, but do look out for the an exciting new line up of first and exclusive U.S series airing close to the US as well as enjoy the viewing experience.

8. Where can I find out more about Sony Channel?

You can connect with Sony Channel via its website, on Facebook or Twitter:

Check out the latest about Sony Philippines at http://www.sonychannelasia.com/ and you can also follow them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SonyChannelPH and Twitter https://twitter.com/SonyChannelPH

**Via Press Release

TV OBSESSION: Jane The Virgin

Loosely adapted from a Venezuelan telenovela of the same name, Jane the Virgin is a delightful new dramedy on Sony Channel.

Jane Villanueva (Gina Rodriguez) has been convinced of two life truths owing it all to her overbearing grandmother Alba – first, that telenovelas are the highest form of entertainment; and second, that all women must protect their virginity at all costs. Now at 23, she is a driven young woman studying to become a teacher and a writer while supporting herself with a job at a new hotel in Miami.

All the years of watching telenovelas with her mother Xiomara (known as “Xo”) and her devout grandmother gave Jane a slightly unrealistic view of love – Her sexy, young-at-heart mom Xo was an unwed mother at 16 who continues to live her life as a performer at local clubs while looking for a new man. Her grandmother Alba on the other hand is a devout and prayerful lady with religion at the center of her life. Both women share a special place in Jane’s life and continue to root for her as an ambitious and compassionate woman despite their conflicting influences on Jane.

All of Jane’s meticulous life plans are turned upside down during her life-changing routine check up when she is accidentally artificially inseminated with a specimen meant for the patient in the next room. Unbeknownst to her, the specimen belongs to Rafael (Justin Baldoni), a reformed playboy and cancer survivor who is not only the new owner of the hotel where Jane works, but also a former summer crush of hers.

A few weeks later, the unsuspecting Jane is faced with the most important decisions of her life. Will she continue with the pregnancy? How can she explain the situation to her fiancé and family? And what should she do about the wishes of the biological father, Rafael, and his scheming wife Petra? At the same time, Jane’s mother Xo is facing a life-changing decision of her own: after years of letting Jane and Alba believe she didn’t know the identity of Jane’s father, the time has come to admit the truth – Jane’s father is Xo’s former boyfriend Rogelio. Making the situation even more surreal, Rogelio is now a huge telenovela star, and he definitely wants to meet his unsuspecting daughter. 

The series also stars Brett Dier (“Ravenswood”) as Michael, Andrea Navedo (“Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” “Golden Boy”) as Xiomara, Yael Grobglas (“Reign”) as Petra, Ivonne Coll (“Switched at Birth,” “The Bold and the Beautiful”) as Alba and Jaime Camil (“Devious Maids,” “Que Pobres Tan Ricos”) as Rogelio.

Catch "Jane the Virgin"every Sunday at 9:05 PM only on Sony Channel Philippines. 

TV OBSESSION: Manhattan Love Story

Manhattan Love Story is a new romantic comedy based on this simple premise: The only way to maintain relationships—with lovers, spouses, family, co-workers, or friends—is to keep most of our thoughts to ourselves. Dana (Analeigh Tipton, Crazy, Stupid, Love) and Peter (Jake McDorman, Shameless) travel through the complicated terrain of modern-day relationship in this new romantic comedy.

The show has an extra dimension: the audience will hear Dana and Peter’s inner thoughts, highlighting the differences of men and women in dating and find out what they are really thinking when they say something. 

Dana is from Atlanta and moves to New York to chase her dreams. When she gets a job, her colleagues started losing theirs and put the blame on her. She keeps a naive and innocent disposition despite these setbacks in high hopes that her colleagues will once again like her. She is determined to succeed in the Big Apple in both career and love.

Peter, on the other hand, is a cynical New Yorker who works for his dad at the family’s business. He has dated so many women to the point that he does not remember their names when he sees them on the street.

Their contrasting personalities do not stop Dana’s friend and sorority sister Amy (Jade Catta-Preta, Californication) from setting them up both on a blind date. Filmed in New York, Manhattan Love Story also stars Nicolas Wright as David, Chloe Wepper as Chloe, and Kurt Fuller as William.

Will Peter and Dana fall in love despite the odds? Tune in to this quirky new show and find out if you’ll get smitten too!

Catch "Manhattan Love Story" every Sunday at 10PM on Sony Channel Philippines. 

TV OBSESSION: Madam Secretary

Madam Secretary revolves around the life of Elizabeth McCord (Téa Leoni), the shrewd, determined, and brilliant former CIA analyst now working as a college professor. However, after a controversy that involves a plane crash, McCord returns to public service at the request of her old friend, and the current President of the United States (Keith Carradine).

McCord’s team includes her Chief of Staff Nadine Tolliver (Bebe Neuwirth), speechwriter Matt Mahoney (Geoffrey Arend), press coordinator Daisy Grant (Patina Miller) and her charming assistant Blake Moran (Erich Bergen). McCord’s flair for diplomacy and high standards for ethics have enabled her to take on daunting political tasks such as debating third world problems, finessing foreign dignitaries at work, as well as battling it out with the President’s combative Chief of Staff Russell Jackson. As a dedicated wife and mother, she ends each day at work going home to her supportive husband, Henry, and their two bright children, where “politics” and “compromise” take on new meaning.

Sony Channel’s new political drama also stars Tim Daly (Henry McCord), Bebe Neuwirth (Nadine Tolliver), Zeljko Ivanek (Russell Jackson), Patina Miller (Daisy Grant), Erich Bergen (Blake Moran), Geoffrey Arend (Matt Mahoney), Katherine Herzer (Alison McCord), and Evan Roe (Jason McCord).

Catch "Madam Secretary" every Thursday at 9:05 PM on Sony Channel Philippines.

TV OBSESSION: How To Get Away With Murder

Academy-Award nominee Viola Davis stars as the brilliant, charismatic criminal law professor who is everything you hope your Criminal Law professor would be. She teaches a course she boldly refers to as “How To Get Away With Murder”, choosing the brightest students in her class to join her at her firm.

"I don’t know what terrible things you’ve done in your life up to this point, but clearly your karma’s out of balance to get assigned my class. I’m Professor Annalise Keating and this is Criminal Law 100, or as I prefer to call it, How to Get Away with Murder."

The students vying for this coveted position include Wes Gibbins (Alfred Enoch), a wide-eyed, likable boy-next-door recently accepted off the waitlist; Michaela Pratt (Aja Naomi King), a confident, ambitious overachiever born knowing how to "lean in;" Connor Walsh (Jack Falahee), a sly, sophisticated heartbreaker used to getting any prize he lays his eyes on; Laurel Castillo (Karla Souza), a quiet, sensitive idealist who's easy to underestimate and Asher Millstone (Matt McGorry), an entitled know-it-all born into a world of Ivy League educations and country club memberships. The students all work under two of Annalise's dedicated associates: Frank Delfino (Charlie Weber), a local Philly boy done good, and Bonnie Winterbottom (Liza Weil), a sweet, observant team-player with a hidden edge.

"How to Get Away with Murder" is created and executive-produced by Pete Nowalk ("Scandal," "Grey's Anatomy"). Shonda Rhimes ("Scandal," "Grey's Anatomy"), Betsy Beers ("Scandal," "Grey's Anatomy") and Bill D'Elia ("Grey's Anatomy," "The West Wing") also serve as executive producers. "How to Get Away with Murder" is produced by ABC Studios.

Catch "How To Get Away With Murder” every Wednesday at 9.05PM on Sony Channel  Philippines. 

Habitat and Minka Collaborate For A Common Purpose

“Minka” a South American term meaning “collaborating together for a common purpose” is now starting to be the trendy byword amongst the health-conscious market with its advocacy of being known not just as an ordinary toothbrush, but spearheading a so-called “toothbrush movement” .

In a groundbreaking partnership, Minka Toothbrushes, which are available at all Healthy Options stores nationwide, have partnered with Habitat for Humanity Philippines in its ongoing social advocacy campaign. For every sale of a Minka Toothbrush at Healthy Options, 10% of its sales will go towards ongoing projects by Habitat, particularly its water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) program. The Minka Toothbrush packaging will also include Habitat’s logo, to further promote its advocacy and awareness to socially conscious customers. Minka Toothbrushes, incidentally, are biodegradable bamboo toothbrushes, that are environmentally-friendly.

(From left to right) Anthony Fernandez, Habitat’s Online Fundraising Officer; Jonah Marie Chipeco, Habitat’s Mass Marketing Manager; Mark Rivera, Minka’s Managing Director; Xrell Nikki Mallonga, Minka’s Director of Operations; Charlie Ayco, Habitat’s CEO and Managing Director; Yvonne Lih, Habitat’s Chief Marketing Officer; and Luisito Baclagon, Mass Market Development Head.

“At Habitat, we believe sanitation and health are improved when you provide a family with decent housing, tying hand-in-hand with Minka’s vision to raise worldwide awareness on sustainability and health,” said Charlie Ayco, CEO and Managing Director of Habitat.

Minka also plans to produce a biodegradable soap in of line the WASH program and the Toothbrush Movement. “Partnering with an organization which aims to improve livelihood across the world, strengthens both Minka’s and Habitat’s collaborated work towards a global, unified goal,” said Ayco. 

**Via Press Release

AVIDA SHARES EXPERT INVESTMENT TIPS WITH "PROJECT HOMEPOSSIBLE"

Leading property developer, AVIDA LAND, holds an exclusive seminar and home fair on managing and growing your life assets with PROJECT HOMEPOSSIBLE: Get Creative with Your Own Money, Your Own Space, Your Own Life. Don't miss this one of a kind opportunity to discover creative ways on how you can manage your personal assets.

Industry experts Leila Hernandez, Edric Mendoza, and Rosario Carbonelle will share their valuable knowledge on the different possibilities of handling and maximizing your finances and investing in your first home or office. Learn decorating tips as well from one the country's celebrity interior designers, Marilen Faustino-Montenegro.  

Exclusive perks and premium gifts await guests. Secure your seats now and pre-register via http://m.avida.ph/c/project-homepossible

PROJECT HOMEPOSSIBLE will be held on Saturday, October 11 at the Grand Ballroom of Intercontinental Hotel in Makati City. Registration starts at 10AM

To know more about this event, just visit https://www.facebook.com/AvidaLandPH or http://www.avidaland.com/events/2014-09-23/project-homepossible

*Via Press Release

LEADING MAN PIOLO PASCUAL BARES ALL IN E! NEWS ASIA SPECIAL

Manila, Philippines – He’s hot, he’s available and he’s all yours this September! Piolo Pascual gives E! News Asia Special an up close and personal treatment for five days, as the team follows the hunky actor around from his home, to his work, to the gym and even to his restroom breaks! An honest and candid documentation of Piolo’s life, the E! team delves further into the private and mysterious life of the celebrity most popularly known as “Papa P.”

“Piolo was chosen for this E! Special as he is well-loved and adored by viewers. However, many continue to wonder about what his life is like when the cameras stop rolling,” said Liza Latinazo, NBCUniversal Country Manager. “We are excited to bring him closer to his fans in both the Philippines and South East Asia”.

With a career spanning over two decades, Piolo remains to be an enigma even to his most loyal fans. This is why E! rounds up his closest friends and family members to get the real score from the people who know him best. For example, his 17-year-old son Iñigo Pascual gives us a glimpse of how Piolo is as a doting father. Meanwhile, his leading lady Iza Calzado spills the beans on Piolo’s work ethics and habits.

“I opened a bit more about my life in this feature because I felt comfortable working with the guys from E! Here you will see what my life is like on set and at home. It’s a privilege and an honor for me to be the first male Filipino celebrity to be featured on E! News Asia Special,” said Piolo during the press conference last month.

This E! News Asia Special is an exclusive invitation to the life of the Philippines’ number one leading man. Catch the full feature only on E! on September 28, 2014, Sunday at 9PM.

E! Channel airs on Channel 57 for Sky Cable and Destiny Digital, Channel 25 for Cignal and Channel 33 on Cable Link.

About Universal Networks International

Universal Networks International, the international channels division of NBCUniversal, is one of the world’s premier entertainment portfolios, delivering quality content and compelling brands to over 176 territories across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Asia Pacific.  The brands in the portfolio include Universal Channel, Syfy, 13th Street, Studio Universal, E! Entertainment Television, The Style Network, DIVA Universal, Telemundo and Golf Channel. These unique brands deliver a full range of entertainment experiences to local audiences across the globe. 

Universal Networks International also operates Movies 24. Further, NBCUniversal News Group, one of the most influential and respected portfolios of on-air and digital news properties in the world, operate CNBC and NBC News internationally.

Universal Networks International is a division of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment television networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, world-renowned theme parks, and a suite of leading Internet-based businesses. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation.

*Via Press Release

MANILA INTERNATIONAL BOOK FAIR: Words Without Borders

More than 50 titles will be launched by Vibal Group to celebrate Filipinos' love for reading and literacy at this year's edition of the Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) on Sept. 17 to 21 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

Starting the lineup is the Unang Diksiyonariyo Caton series, translated in various Philippine dialects and designed to complement the Mother Tongue Program espoused by the Department of Education.

New children's books for young readers will be launched under Vibal's Chikiting Books imprint, such as Jomike Tejido's Why Do Squids Squirt Ink?, Nati Santos' Nobody's Hat, and Russell Molina's Salamat Po! translated in Binisaya and Ilokano.

Aside from new Chikiting Books, Vibal will also launch new books under Vibal Foundation: More American Than We Admit features scholarly essays edited by Julian Go, reflecting the cultural interactions between Filipinos and the American colonial masters. Dear Lady S features advice by Lady S—resident love columnist of the Philippine Online Chronicles.

Pagmumuni-muni at Pagtatalak ng Sirenang Nagpapanggap na Prinsesa is a compilation of essays by John Iremil Teodoro, one of the pioneers in gay literature in the country. Bekibolaryo, on the other hand, is a comprehensive lexicon explaining terms, words, and expressions used by the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transsexual (LGBT) community.

K to 12: RA 10533 and Relevant Education Policies by Atty. Joseph Estrada and Atty. Kristjan Gargantiel meanwhile elaborates on how the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013 can affect existing policies and laws in education.

These books can actually be previewed for free by mobile device owners by scanning designated QR codes posted along the booth's illustrated panels. Vibal's booth will also feature tablets, all-in-one PCs, and other mobile devices to feature e-book editions of their printed books, along with interactive games, video documentaries, and other rich media content for MIBF visitors.

Now on its 35th year, the MIBF gathers Philippine publishers to showcase their latest books and offer big discounts for their popular bestsellers. Vibal is a regular participant of this annual event that attracts bibliophiles and other book readers alike, along with book sellers and authors to celebrate the power of books, reading, and knowledge.

During the five-day event, Vibal will also be organizing various activities at their booth: an interactive storytelling-cum-zumba session featuring Eugene Evasco's May Lakad Kami ni Tatay will be held on Sept.19. Meet-and-greet sessions with various authors and illustrators will also take place.

For September 17, Atty. Joseph Noel Estrada will headline the meet-and-greet sessions in the morning followed by Bebang Siy and Ronier Verzo in the afternoon. Genaro Gojo Cruz is set to attend the morning session on September 18, while illustrator Jonathan Ranola will grace the afternoon session on the same date. The morning session for September 19 will mark the presence of author Eugene Evasco and three illustrators—namely Brent Sabas, Ariel Santillan, and Leo Ang—while Lady S of the Philippine Online Chronicles, alongside illustrators Jamie Bauza and Valerie Jan Villaflor will be there in the afternoon.

Authors Rhandee Garlitos and John Teodoro, together with illustrator Tokwa Penaflorida are set to appear in the morning of September 20 at the Vibal booth. For the afternoon session on the same date, another group will be present to interact with their fans—authors Heidi Abad and Lem Garcellano, alongside illustrators Wiji Lacsamana, Christian Oliver Cruz, and Doms Agsaway. To cap off the fair, the husband-and-wife tandem of Jomike Tejido and Haraya Ocampo-Tejido will be at the Vibal booth on the afternoon of September 21.

MIBF is organized by Primetrade Asia, Inc. in partnership with Asian Catholic Communicators, Inc., Book Development Association of the Philippines, Philippine Booksellers Association, Inc., and the Overseas Publishers Representatives Organization of the Philippines.


Via Press Release

1st KO SI 3rd: LOVE IN THE TIME OF RETIREMENT

An interestingly kilig offering to the 2014 Cinemalaya Film Festival

Illustration by Tokwa Penaflorida

Reality of things compels us to live life as it unfolds. We move with the times and work with what's on hand. This is often the way we create the story of our lives. There's a chance to leave a supposed love story behind to settle with the more obvious life offerings, forgetting what could have been and then one day after many years of work and family life, fate brings back a chance for the heart to open up a space for love again. This is the story of a married retiree named Cory brought to life by Ms. Nova Villa and her love interest when she was still single, Third portrayed by Mr. Freddie Webb in 1st Ko si 3rd, an official entry to the 2014 Cinemalaya Film Festival.

"I would like to tell a story about an interrupted love," says Real Florido the film's writer and director. "Then play with the idea of giving it a chance when the characters are in the senior years." The film's excitement and complication come from the fact that Cory and Third are in their 60's and are married to different partners. "This film also shows how a retiree would spend her 'free' days and look forward to the future after ending her decades of labor in the city treasury office," Florido added.

Bringing Back an Old Spark

Villa and Webb have been known in the 1990's as well-watched comedic couple. Their chemistry doing funny skits on television has had a good following from numerous households. At this day and age of multifaceted showbiz coupling, 1st Ko si 3rd is bringing back to the silver screen the wholesome tandem. This time providing both young and mature audiences with unadulterated family entertainment that gives an insight about life and love.

Igniting a Dream

Real Florido has been writing for one of the most competitive and prevailing television networks in the country where he has made and lead content for several entertainment shows. His background in video production started in college. He also did several collaborations on independent film making before he had an entry approved to the 2014 Cinemalaya Film Festival with 1st Ko si 3rd.

"I want to advocate delivering content to audiences that that will make them think and realize some aspects of everyday living that are sometimes overlooked," Florido states. "My entry to this year's festival intends to do that and I look forward to being able to create more projects with compelling messages in the future," he concludes.

2014 Cinemalaya Film Festival will be at the Cultural Center of the Philippines on August 1 to 10, 2014.

For more information please contact:

Philip Ace Falcon

Mobile: 09178628984

E-mail: pacefalcon1@yahoo.com

Real Florido 

Mobile: 09175277325

E-mail: realflorido@gmail.com

**Via Press Release

SANIB PWERSA SA COLT 45

Here's a fist-bump to Asia Brewery Inc. (ABI) for successfully re-introducing the all new Colt45 at the Hard Rock Cafe, Makati! The overhaul features a fresh new look and a more flavorful beer "brewed for brotherhood." The "Sanib Pwersa" brand, which translates "to join forces," embodies sincerity and loyalty among "brads" (brothers/friends) and represents the kind of relationship it aims to foster with its drinkers.

Photo courtesy of www.adobomagazine.com

According to ABI Marketing Manager for Alcoholic Beverages, Mr. Greg Anonas, "the new Colt 45 was brewed with brotherhood in mind from concept to conception." This explains why they dropped the horse and the horse shoe logo and changed it to the fist-bump, a modern take on the classic high-five. "Embracing the idea of celebrating brotherhood allowed us to revolutionize the brand's flavor to optimize sharing, place the fist-bump on our labels to symbolize brotherhood and work with great brand ambassadors to help make the spirit of Sanib Pwersa come to life," he added. Conjointly, ABI Brewmaster Dr. Alberto Rivera shared that "we've improved the overall beer experience by using more aromatic hops, reducing bitterness, and bringing out its roasted malt flavor using our signature triple-hopping process. The results is a more flavorful beer that has more character and is closer to the ideal."

Photo courtesy of lifestyle.digitalspidey.com

Filipino hip hop sensation Abra and rock icon Raymund Marasigan teamed up to write the Sanib Pwersa anthem to celebrate true friendship and brotherhood, reflecting the new Colt 45's brand and ideologies. "It is always a delight to sing songs that celebrate the Filipino, and in the case of Sanib Pwersa, we celebrate the brotherhood that is uniquely ours. How each and everyone contributes something to the table and how great things happen when you and your bros come together," shares Mr. Raymund. 

Get a taste of the new and improved Colt 45 available in 7-11, Padi's Point, major supermarkets, and sari-sari stores across the country for a suggested retail price of only Php 21 per bottle.

Join the Colt 45 Philippines brotherhood and get the latest updates on Facebook community page (Colt 45 Philippines) or on Twitter at @Colt45PH. You can also subscribe to Colt 45 Philippines Youtube channel. Cheers brad!

JASMINE Hits Worldwide Trending List; Engages More Viewers Online

The self-titled love mystery drama of home-grown TV5 star Jasmine Curtis-Smith continues to engage more viewers every week as the unidentified stalker known only as Maskara wreaks havoc on the life and career of Jasmine’s fictitious version of herself in the series. Aside from the compelling developments in the story, JASMINE the series has a consistently growing online following, as proven by its notable presence in social media, particularly in the popular microblogging site Twitter.

photo courtesy of KapatidTV.com

For three consecutive weeks now, JASMINE has been consistently trending on Twitter, with thousands of tweets from around the world showing how viewers are reacting to the surprising twists and turns in the story as well as on Jasmine’s commendable acting in the suspense-thriller. In fact, last June 14, the hashtag #WhosTheSTALKER figured at the No. 1 spot in the top trending list in the Philippines. The following Saturday, June 21, the hashtag #JasmineURLoved also trended at No. 1 in the Philippines.

Breaking records for the show was the hashtag #STALKERKaKung, which made it to No. 2 worldwide and simultaneously at No. 1 in the Philippines last June 28, remarkably generating over 48,600 tweets and more than 3,000 retweets and staying at the top trending list for 24 hours up to June 29.

More and more viewers are definitely getting hooked to JAlSMINE as they take to social media in expressing their thoughts on the show and interacting with their fellow viewers around the world. As the story progresses, expect more shocked reactions and wild guesses on the true identity of Maskara. There have been accidents and deaths, and some important characters have been Maskara’s hapless victims. How far will Jasmine’s stalker go in expressing his obsession to have her all for himself? Who will be his next victim? Will Jasmine be able to find out Maskara’s true identity before it’s too late?

JASMINE airs every Sunday at 5:00 p.m., with replays at 10:00 p.m., only on TV5.

**Via Press Release

TakBohol Run for a School

TakBohol: Boholanos run to build a school

Veterans Memorial Medical Center (July 27, 2014)

Hundreds of Boholanos will unite for a fun run to support the construction of a school building in the earthquake-hit province of Bohol. On Sunday, August 24, 2014, Tapok- Tapok Bol- Anon, Inc., an organization of Boholanos based in Manila, in partnership with Habitat for Humanity Philippines will gear up towards the race for a brighter future of the youth of Bohol. The fundraising marathon is expected to be one of the biggest gatherings of the Boholano community in Manila this year. 

Habitat is a non- profit organization which envisions a world where everybody has a decent place to live,. Habitat is committed to addressing the housing backlog in the Philippines, where millions remain in substandard housing.

In October last year, a magnitude 7.2 earthquake rocked parts of Bohol and the Central Visayas, destroying infrastructures and leaving hundreds of people dead. Just 3 weeks from the quake, the region was not spared from the path of the super Typhoon Yolanda (international name “Haiyan”) which sent some 40,000 Boholanos homeless. With these figures in mind, the Tapok- Tapok Bol- Anon Inc. saw the great need to partner with an organization to help their fellow Boholanos rise from the tragedy. 

Today, more than six months after the earthquake, many families in Bohol remain homeless. In response to this need, Habitat targets to rebuild over 8,083 homes in 17 badly affected municipalities across the province providing decent, earthquake-resilient shelters to families still living in tents and make-shift houses.

All funds raised from the fun run will help fund the construction a school building in one of the worst hit barangays in Bohol. Tapok- Tapok Bol- Anon, Inc. hopes to help school children still holding their classes in tents and makeshift learning facilities. Registration fee is P300, the run categories are 3k and 4.5k. Participants will run around the Veteran’s Memorial Hospital grounds. 

Tapok- Tapok Bol- Anon, Inc.  was formed to further enhance the camaraderie and leadership of mid-level Boholanos based in Manila and contribute to Bohol’s well-being. Over the years, Tapok- Tapok Bol- Anon, Inc., has partnered with various government agencies and private organizations for programs to help support the needs of the Boholanos. 

Today, Habitat for Humanity Philippines aims to rebuild the hard-hit areas in the various Visayan islands. It has continued to raise funds and gather volunteers in its goal to build 8,083 homes in 1,059 barangays of the 17 municipalities of Bohol. Habitat continues to seek  the support of groups and individuals in building a better future for  the Filipinos. To know more about Habitat and its programs, or to volunteer log on to www.habitat.org.ph. 

To know more about “TakBohol, Run for a School”, please contact Mr. Aries Sarmiento at 0915-4079217. 

TakBohol Run for a School 2014

Event Details

Date: Sunday, July 27, 2014

On- site Registration: 4:00 A.M.

Race Start: 5:00 A.M.

Venue: Veterans Memorial Medical Center, North Avenue, Quezon City

Registration fee: P 300.00

Registration Sites: On- Site

Registration Starts: Ongoing until day of event

Race Categories:

Male	Female
3k		4.5K	3k	4.5K
1ST Prize= P 3,000.00		1ST Prize= P 3,000.00	1ST Prize= P 3,000.00	1ST Prize= P 3,000.00
2nd Prize= P 2,000.00		2nd Prize= P 2,000.00	2nd Prize= P 2,000.00	2nd Prize= P 2,000.00
3rd Prize= P 1,000.00		3rd Prize= P 1,000.00	3rd Prize= P 1,000.00	3rd Prize= P 1,000.00

Donations may be coursed through:

Bank Name: BDO

Account Name: Tapok- Tapok Bol- Anon, Inc.

Account Branch: Richville Branch (Ayala Alabang, Muntinlupa)

Savings Account: 47300-36460


**Via Press Release

INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM DAY: Museum Collections Make Connections

The International Council of Museums-Philippines (ICOM-Philippines) is the National Committee and Secretariat of ICOM in the country, an international organization of museums and museum professionals committed to the conservation, continuation and communication to society of the world’s natural  and cultural  heritage, present  and future, tangible and intangible. ICOM has a unique professional network of institutions and museum professionals worldwide collaborating and participating in discussions and reflections concerning museum development.

In line with the ICOM International Museums Day Celebration (IMD),  ICOM-PH is pleased to announce its upcoming event entitled “IMD2014 Forum” echoing the ICOM theme, “Museum Collections make Connections” to be held on Friday, the 27th of June 2013 in Manila, Philippines.

In partnership with the De La Salle - College of St. Benilde, Habitat for Humanity Philippines, University of the Philippines – Diliman, International Federation of Social Science Organizations, Philippine Association of Museums Inc, International Movement for Development Managers, Hiniraya Cultural Heritage and Development Foundation, GULF AIR, and other institutional partners, we will – as one team, celebrate the annual International Museum day in June and reflect on the global theme, “Museum Collections Make Connection” as we create the opportunity to introduce and strengthen new and creative collaborations among members, their museums and their partner stakeholders. 

The objective for International Museum Day (IMD2014) is to continuously raise public awareness worldwide on the role museums play in the development of society. The global standard theme of IMD 2014 is “Museum Collections Make Connections.” As the world moves away from traditional methods of engagement, museums must find new ways to engage with their communities by making their collections more accessible and relevant to their stakeholders. It also encourages public awareness of the role of the museums in the development of society and promotes the connection that exists between different types of collection and their audiences.

ICOM – Philippines will be inviting representatives from its counterparts in Asia and Europe to share their own insights and best practices in making and keeping collections to the Filipinos. Speakers from province of Bohol will also be invited to share the current status of their lost treasures. Their  presence will also solicit the help and support needed from the museum community in restoring and taking care of the collections affected by the recent natural disasters. Representatives of Indigenous People will also talk about their own collections that tell their stories. Congressman Teddy Baguilat of the lone district of Ifugao will share the collection, culture, heritage,and  the current activities of the group of Indigenous People he belongs to. The Ifugaos are considered as the pride of the Philippine history and culture.

ICOM – Philippines is looking forward to see in museum professionals, advocate of museums, culture and the arts of everyone else who would like to learn more about the best practices on taking care of one’s collections using standards of museums’ code of ethics. ICOM – Philippines is inviting the public to join us as we celebrate the achievements of  ICOM, share experiences as museum professionals and take ourselves to the next level of synergy.

If you would like to know more about ICOM Global, please visit icom.org or you may call ICOM-IMD Secretariat office at (632)550-2218. Please look for Ms. Mischelle Rico or Mia V. Morales.Thank you and we look forward to seeing you on June 27 for International Museums Day 2014!

**Via Press Release