Sharing Buckets of Love With Finger-Lickin' Goodness

Make the season bright and savor the joy of giving with KFC'S BUCKETS OF LOVE, a campaign to raise awareness and generate funds for conflict and disaster-affected areas in the country. Not only does KFC serve good dishes, but also moments that are just 'so good.'

Echoing the idea that hunger is not an issue of charity but rather of justice, KFC Philippines bolsters its longtime partnership with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) through the said campaign. This year, KFC has pledged to donate 5.00 from every 8-pc. bucket meal and Php 1.00 from every 1-pc Crispy Butter Chicken sold from November until January of next year. Proceeds will be used to support WFP's efforts in rebuilding communities affected by Typhoon Yolanda while continuously supporting feeding programs in conflict-affected areas in Central Mindanao. Customers may also share their blessings through coin canisters found in KFC counters.

The organizers shared to us the story of Norhana. She used to go to school with an empty stomach and no packed lunch prior to the school feeding program. During lunchtime, she would rather give her share of food to her siblings and just wait for afternoon classes to begin. But thanks to KFC and the WFP, Norhana now receives a meal in school to help her perform better in class. Not only can we enjoy KFC's signature dishes, but also help in improving the quality of life of children and communities who will benefit from the Buckets of Love campaign. It tested that even small gestures can make a big difference.

General Manager for KFC Philippines Liza Leah Calma-Junio shared that "Beyond the so good experiences that we provide our loyal fans through innovative products and one-of-a-kind opportunities, we also make it a point to pay it forward by extending assistance to communities that need our support. KFC is a company that values sharing and likewise Filipinos are people who love giving. Buckets of Love gives them the channel to share what they have with those who need it most."

For more information on how you can take part in this noble cause, you can follow KFC on Twitter @KFCPhilippines or like their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/kfcphilippines.

All Star Benefit Concert for Yolanda Victims

A benefit concert for the rehabilitation of Typhoon Yolanda victims is slated to take place on December 21, 2013 at 7:00 pm at the Citizen's Business Bank Arena, in Ontario, California.

Dubbed "Philippines Relief Concert: All Star Charity Show," the concert was the fruit of a conversation between Mr. John Gummoe of the Cascades, and Mr.Danee Samonte of Steve O' Neal productions. Both Mr.Gummoe and Mr. Samonte had heard about the desperate situation of the survivors of Typhoon Yolanda, and wanted to come up with a fundraising event. American musical artists, most of who have performed in the Philippines, heard about the devastation wrought by Typhoon Haiyan. They immediately wanted to get involved in this concert that would help raise funds for rehabilitation efforts.

More than 10 classic artists are set to perform on December 21. Among them -- John Ford Coley, John Claude Gummoe of the Cascades, Rex Smith, Ron Dante (the original lead singer of The Archies), Bobby Hendricks (from the original Drifters), Kyle Vincent, Frank Stallone, Classics UV, Dick and Dee Dee, Chris Montez, The World Famous Platters, Dennis Tufano (the original lead singer of The Buckinghams), and Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods, and a special appearance by the "The Hitman" David Foster. 

"Our audience can expect a night of great music and charity. We will walk down memory lane by listening to the greatest hits of these artists," says Eugene Flores, of All Access Concerts. "We can also enjoy the show knowing that with each ticket bought, 100% of the proceeds will have a direct effect on rebuilding the lives of the victims of typhoon Yolanda."

"Asian Journal and Balikbayan magazine is of course very proud to be part of this fundraising concert," publisher Roger Oriel said. "It has always been the aim of our publication to help uplift the Philippines, and this is another avenue by which we can channel our resources towards alleviating a very dire situation."

Proceeds of the concert will be coursed through Habitat for Humanity Philippines's Rebuild Philippines program and ABS-CBN foundation international. 

**Via Press Release

Make Wave For Sea Fair 2014!

It's no ordinary party scene courtesy of LEGWORKS EVENTS as they bring the wingding on a cruise in a foreword of the upcoming JUST ADD WATER: SEAFAIR 2014 happening on February 20-23 at the CCP Complex Bay Terminal Parking. And so me and my friends suited up in our nautical attires and partied the night away.

I got to meet and chill with fellow bloggers who were all having as much fun as I did. Ms. Jean Hill even let's us see some of her creations which will be featured in Tied by a Knot, one of the many highlights of the said event. After gaping on these fab couture, which by the way were literally tied and not sewn, we knew there is so much to expect at the SEAFair.

Photos courtesy of Alex De Vera Dizon

Back-to-back events and water-related activities will allow participants and guests to experience the wonders of marine lifestyle in this 4-day expo. Featured spectacles are Yacht Cruise, Regatta Competition, Dragon Boat Demo, Helicopter City Tour, Fashion Show along with nautical apparels and launching of a very promising accessory line, and a cocktail party to wrap the night off. Food stalls and display booths of the coolest water sport gear and accessories, nautical apparel, marine equipment and peripherals will also be available at the venue. 

Photos courtesy of Alex De Vera Dizon

Mark your calendar and get ready to sail on an exciting, fun-filled week at Just Add Water: SEAFair 2014. For more information, you may contact Ms. Gen Fernandez or Ms. Haidee Ricardo at (02) 515-9903 or 0917.950.0948. You may also visit their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/seafair2014

Touching Reunions in Let’s Ask Pilipinas’ Twelve Days of Christmas

Aga Muhlach will be spreading the joy of Christmas to OFWs beginning on Tuesday, December 10, with the ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ special on LET'S ASK PILIPINAS.

The upcoming episodes are made more special as OFWs will be playing for the first time in the daily game show. The contestants will be playing from various parts of the world, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and United Kingdom, with each having their own touching stories to share.

In the Tuesday episode, Aga brings the audience close to tears as he reads a letter from a contestant’s mom who is in prison for a crime they say she didn’t commit. Another episode holds a a virtual date between contestants who were former college classmates, with Aga suddenly playing Cupid for the two.

Let’s Ask Pilipinas made way for the virtual reunion of the contestants with their families, who flew in from as far as Aklan, Bukidnon and Tuguegarao to be part of the studio audience.  With the power of technology, emotional video reunions are made possible with their families. One of the OFW contestants hasn’t seen her family for 13 years and happily thanks Aga for the opportunity. In another touching reunion, a mother who flew in from Ozamis is in tears upon seeing all her three daughters who are now working in Dubai.

Aside from the heartwarming virtual reunions and the game prizes offered by Let’s Ask Pilipinas, Aga will also be giving away 12 of his favorite things to the studio audience.  All these gifts will bear glimpses of Aga as person as they range from his basic essentials to the classy items that he enjoys with friends and family.

Catch the 12 Days of Christmas special on Let’s Ask Pilipinas starting December 10, 7PM on TV5.


**Via Press Release

MIRACLE ART EXHIBITION: The House of Living Art

It's definitely a whole new world as art imitates life in the MIRACLE ART EXHIBITION in Lucky Chinatown Annex A. Let your imagination loose and strike a pose as you merge with awe-inspiring multidimensional works of art to create fascinating illusions.

The Miracle Art Exhibition houses a vast collection of incredible art paintings in 4D. It's really hard not to be amazed by all these artworks with different themes from animals and nature, movies, and even well-known masterpieces to name a few. Visitors can interact to about a hundred of paintings inside the gallery; and with just the right angle, create a 3D effect where one becomes part of the whole portrait. Now that's the miracle.

One thing unique about the Miracle Art Exhibition is that it encourage visitors to actually touch and take photos of the paintings. I honestly think it's a step away from the "boring" stereotype of an art exhibit because it is more engaging. Me and some of my friends can surely attest to that.

With an entrance fee amounting to Php 300 for adults and Php 200 for students, Miracle Art Exhibition is certainly an ideal spot for friends and the whole family. So don't miss the chance to collect countless memories with them as you journey in a world of art like no other. Prep your creativity, strike a pose and get ready to shoot. Smile!


Photos courtesy of witty4you.blogspot.com and recyclebinofamiddlechild.com

A Gleam of Hope at the Enchanting Lights and Sound Show

The country's leading city sparkled in vibrant colors as it welcome the Christmas season with the ENCHANTING LIGHTS AND SOUND SHOW that will run every 30 minutes from 6pm to 9pm until January 5 of next year. Held at the Ayala Triangle Garden in Makati, this spectacle fostered not only joy and merriment among visitors but also a drive to help in the relief operations for the super typhoon Yolanda victims.

photo courtesy of rammmpa.blogspot.com

Thousands of light bulbs danced in captivating harmony with four Christmas medleys; all to share the very essence of what the festivity is all about - sharing our blessings and making a difference. But more importantly, it reminded everyone that each of us can inspire a gleam of hope to those affected by the calamity in the Visayas region. 

photo courtesy of rammmpa.blogspot.com

Ayala group of companies launched the "BULIG BISAYA" campaign together with the Enchanting Lights and Sound Show in an effort to aid in the restoration of integral services such as telecommunications and banking, provision of potable water, transferring of victims to safer grounds, and relief operations. In line with this noble cause, donation boxes have been positioned around the Ayala Triangle Gardens and Tower One & Exchange Plaza fountain area where people can drop cash donations of any amount. In addition, by sharing the Makati Christmas E-cards through the Make It Makati Facebook page, two (2) pesos will be donated for the victims of the super typhoon.

Makati City offers more tidings and surprises this December starting with the 4th Annual Christmas Caroling Competition happening on December 2, followed by Christmas Around the World presented by SkyCable and TLC on December 6 and Thanksgiving Masses offered by Makati locators from December 15 to 23.

photo courtesy of rammmpa.blogspot.com

Amidst a nation bruised by a super typhoon, the Christmas season becomes all the more meaningful as it share flickers of hope and joy to the hearts of all those affected by the super typhoon. Be one with the Bayanihan spirit at the city that makes it all happen. Cheers to the Holidays! 

For more information, like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter @MakeItMakati or you can visit their website at www.makeitmakati.com to learn more about Makati and the Make It Makati campaign.

ZOOBIC NIGHT SAFARI: Wild After Dark

The night is so much alive at ZOOBIC NIGHT SAFARI. This 25-hectare exotic sanctuary in Subic Bay offers a unique, thrilling, and exciting wild night adventure that would surely charm the lionhearted. Packed with so much excitement, me and my friends took this one of a kind adventure all set to tickle our nocturnal senses.

Aboard a tram called the Zooper Train, our wild adventure started with a tour at The Forbidden Cave. This surely got our hearts pounding with all its bizarre surprises. I dare you try this and find it out for yourself. Be warned, it's not for the fainthearted. Next stop was the Serpentarium, a reptile haven of snakes, lizards, and iguanas.

Giving us a breather was the most anticipated Night Safari Show. Performances staged for the night's entertainment reminded us to take care of Mother Nature and the ecosystem. Among many of the show's highlight was the Aetas performing their traditional dances. Closing the night's spectacle were a number of fire dances performed by no other than Zoobic Safari's very own staff; from the receptionists to the caretakers, just about everyone.

Then we were ushered to Zoobic Safari's pride, the Tiger Safari. We took a ride in an enclosed jeep bound to take us to the tiger's natural habitat and got the chance to have a bewildering close encounter with the tigers. Next on the list was the Croco Loco; a crocodile lair where we got the chance to feed the giant reptiles. And completing our tour was an on-foot trip in the Zoobic Park where we got oriented with different animals in their simulated habitats.

Be bold and experience wild nights only at the Zoobic Night Safari. For inquiries, you may contact them at 899-9824 / 899-9595 loc 344 or you can visit their website at www.zoobic.com.ph

NUVALI DIRT WEEKEND 2013: Of Prime and Champions

They were definitely in it to win it as Nuvali hosts the biggest and first ever Mountain Bike National Championship at the NUVALI DIRT WEEKEND 2013. Bikers from all over the country geared up and raced to the finish line strutting the heart of a champion.

The race was categorized into three action-packed Union Cyclist International (UCI) events - the Cross Country Olympics, Downhill-Individual, and Four Cross Race. Nevertheless, adding more adrenalin pumps to the event are six non-UCI registered mountain bike events namely the NUVALI 30kms XC Race, Folding Bike Bi-Modal Race, the Philippine Duathlon Series Championships, Kid's Championship Race, Fixie Events - Fixie Criterium Championships and Fixie Alley Cat - and the highly anticipated endurance challenge, the 24-Hour Race. 

photos courtesy of littlebitofeverythinginlife.blogspot.com

World-governing body for cycling, the Switzerland-based UCI, awarded the all-important points to winners to help them solidify their rankings which could propel them of earning a spot to participate in international races like the SEA Games, Asian Games, and the Asian Championships.

photos courtesy of littlebitofeverythinginlife.blogspot.com

Nuvali Dirt Weekend 2013 is also doing their share in the relief operation for the rehabilitation of Carles and Estancia, Iloilo. The organizers, supporters, and participants donated a percentage of the registration fee to help fund this noble cause. The event was also braced by various Dakila artists Nityalila, Bayang Barios, and Noel Cabangon who all championed climate change awareness. This year's theme, Pilipinong Siklista, surely highlighted the quality and future of the Filipino cyclists; a showcase of champions. 

Get to know more about Nuvali at www.nuvali.ph or via +63917-5ASKNUV (275688). You can also follow them on Facebook and Twitter @Nuvaliofficial.

ZOOCOBIA: Embracing Biodiversity

ZOOCOBIA surely is one of the happiest places in the planet. This captivating paradise in Clark, Pampanga offers more than just a variety of exciting activities for the whole family. It's a theme park like no other.

First on our tour was the Animal Bone and Skin Museum. Here, in noble display, were preserved animal skins and bones where one can surely learn a thing or two about taxidermy. Next stop was the Birds of Paradise. This is definitely one of the best experiences Zoocobia has to offer because we actually got the chance to feed the lovebirds with our own bare hands inside their nesting den. In addition, it also allow visitors to have a close encounter with a wide array of birds.

photo courtesy of followmycrumpledfootnote.blogspot.com

While you meet a variety of animals along the trail, another unique offering of Zoocobia is The Barn where visitors get to meet and feed domesticated animals. Other attractions include The Philippines' Pride, Garden Maze and the Zoocology Museum.

photos courtesy of littlebitofeverythinginlife.blogspot.com

Adding more frenzy to the whole Zoocobia experience are the Clarkzilla 4x4 Zooperb Ride and the Zooc Ride, a gravity car running on a 400-meter winding track. These are definitely a must try; fun and excitement guaranteed. The latest addition to Zoocobia's adrenalin pumping treats are the 450-meter Zip Line and  the Zing-A-Ride. These two installations are set to put a big smile to thrill seekers. But to top it all off, I enjoyed the Carabao Ride the most. It was a short yet very stirring trip.

photos courtesy of littlebitofeverythinginlife.blogspot.com

It was a fun, learning tour at Zoocobia but most importantly, it constantly remind it's visitors to take care of nature and the ecosystem. Get to know more about Zoocobia at http://zoomanity.com.ph or by liking their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/zoomanitygroup.

TENDA LAUNCHES THREE NEW ROUTERS IN THE PHILIPPINES

TENDA, a new kid on the block in the wireless distribution system in the Philippines, is set to impress the consumers with its easy-to-install units and reliable data connection of up to 300 Mbps.

The company introduces three new exciting models in the Philippine market-the W3002R, W309R+ and FH303. According to Charlie Jiang, company sales manager for the Philippines, TENDA is set to win the competition against other wireless solution brands in the market.

"TENDA's edge against the other routers are, it is easy to set up or install and its parts are made by Broadcom chipset company (famous WIFI chipset maker in the world)," Jiang said.

Jiang explained that TENDA's edge over competitors does not stop at providing quality routers but, extends to after sales services.

TENDA W3002R

 "The guaranty time for TENDA routers in the Philippines is two years since the date when the customers bought it from the authorized dealer's stores," Jiang said. Jiang added that should customers come across a defective unit, technical support can be easily reached through the hotline.

"If there is any problem about the hardware, the customers just have to consult our dealer’s technicians to solve it, Jiang said.

"If the technician cannot troubleshoot the problem, the dealer will send that unit back to our distributor BELEXIS then our engineers will test the RMA unit first and then try to fix it or replace it in 7-15 days according to the problem," Jiang said. Jiang promises to bring the finest internet connection experience in the office and at home for TENDA customers.

"The purpose of TENDA Philippines company is just to let the Filipinos enjoy surfing the wireless network easier by using our easy set top TENDA router in an affordable price and good service " .Jiang said.

Sharing the best data experience with W3002R and FH303 W309R+ and FH303 is the perfect combo to heighten the data connection experience that hits 300 Mbps and provides the widest area coverage. Jiang explained  the W3002R is a powerful wireless solution made for home and office use that offers reliable internet connection for faster downloads. “W3002R is the advanced 300Mbps router with new nice design, high power router, its coverage is two times wider than the normal 300Mbps router,” Jiang said." 

TENDA-W3002R has detachable antennas that use the universal repeater technology which allows wider area coverage, better performance and enhanced compatibility. Security issues have also been resolved with the W3002 as it offers multi-level encryption options to prevent unauthorized access to safeguard important data. FH303, on the other hand, resolves dead spot troubles at home and in the office that slows down fun and work. As TENDA is committed to customer satisfaction, the FH303 is made to deliver quality internet connectivity with a push of a button.

TENDA FH303

“FH303 is also a high power router with a button on the rear side , that can adjust the router 's performance mode to be normal signal or high signal mode,: Jiang explained. “When the router is working in normal signal mode, it also can save the energy ,we call this as the green energy saving,” he added. Two rear side buttons can be found on the unit. The first button allows users to adjust wireless signal effectively and conveniently while the second button serves as security lock. Other features of this model include several filters like bandwidth control, MacAddress clone, remote web management and system log.

 “These models belong to the high power router series ,for the high power router with two 

antennas , we recommend W3002R while for the high power router with three antennas , we recommend FH303 ,” Jiang said. FH303 comes in elegant white with three antennas which secures reliable internet connection.

No more dead spots at home with W309R+. One of the highlights of TENDA wireless solution technology is affordability and quality and that is exactly what the W309R+ has to offer. Customers are in for a great deal with the last, but not the least, on the roster of the newly launched router models with its competitive market price and potent features. According to Jiang, W309R+ can increase data connectivity at home up to 300 Mbps that can work with broadband internet connection.

”W309R+ is the high power 300 Mbps router with two 9 dBi antennas,” he said. This model can share with multiple computers considering the limits of a broadband internet connection. Since not every household has a “techie” member, the W309R+ comes with an easy setup utility that makes it easy for family members to set up the unit. This affordable model is more than its price worth when it comes with added features like the enhanced wireless distribution system which allows customers to set up a wireless communication between two or more routers in the area. Despite its ability to connect to several routers, the W309R+ does not compromise the security of data of its users as it is equipped with a multi-level encryption feature. 

About TENDA

Founded in 1999, Tenda Technology is the recognized leading supplier of networking devices and equipments for consumer, SOHO and small business users. Tenda has committed to delivering easy-to-install and affordable networking solutions for its customers, offering innovative, award-winning products that enhance people's lives and productivity.Our product lines include WiFi devices, ADSL CPEs, Ethernet switches, mobile broadband(3/3.5/3.75G) devices and wired routers.

Based in Shenzhen, China, where our ISO9001:2000 certified facilities, plus ten automated SMT lines and assembly lines, produce 80,000 units of CE- and FCC-marked items per day.

Since 2007, Tenda has started launching its global branding efforts. Until now, through our worldwide distribution channels, Tenda distributes products to more than 100 countries around the world. In 2009, our total revenue was recorded at 151Million USD. In which, revenue from overseas was 41Million USD, accounting for 27%, up from 19Million in 2007 and 28Million in 2008.

About Belexis

Belexis Concepts Inc.began operations in February 2010 as an IT distribution company for Acer products. A sister company of Banbros Commercial, Inc., Belexis quickly established itself as a leading distributor of eMachines and Acer Commercial products nationwide.

Its network of dealers, corporate resellers and retailers serves as the core distribution channel nationwide. It aims to be the leader in the distribution of IT products and is committed to maintain a dominant position in the market. Beginning 3rd quarter 2010, Belexis began offering Gateway products as it expands its product line to serve the different markets.  Edifier speakers were added to its line in October, 2010. 

In November 2010, Belexis became a distributor of Imation and its brands, TDK, Memorex, XtremeMac to forge into the CE market.  It continues to seek an array of IT & CE products to serve its growing market.

**Via Press Release

SALUDO: Celebrating 25 Years of Being A HERO

Honoring heroes, old and new, HERO FOUNDATION celebrates 25 years of transforming every Juan into a hero. Truly, the Filipino hallmark of the Bayanihan spirit continues to live on and inspire camaraderie towards the same goal - a better future.

Hero Foundation launched its Silver Anniversary Free Concert last October 22 at the Glorietta Activity Center, Makati to celebrate and to show gratitude to corporatations and individuals who helped provide educational assistance to the children of our soldiers who were killed or incapacitated in line of duty. In addition, this event was dedicated to recognize the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform so we can all live in peace.

This silver anniversary offering was a huge success. Thanks to the event organizers with the help of the Ambassadors of HERO Foundation. Artists Princess Velasco, Young JV, John Lesaca, Harana, Chad Borja, Jinky Vidal, Top Suzara and Mark Bautista serenaded the crowd before the awarding of the Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum donors. And capping the night are performances by Callalily, Moonstar 88, Banda ni Kleggy and 6Cycle Mind.

photo courtesy of witty4you.blogspot.com

For more information on how you can become a hero, please log on at www.herofoundation.com.ph or you may contact Ms. Michelle S. Chan, Director for Marketing and Resource Mobilization, at 0917 - 822 - HERO (4376) or via email donate@herofoundation.com.ph. You may also check HERO Foundation at their Facebook page or follow them at Twitter and Instagram @Hero_Phils.