A trip to ALA Skin Care

RIGHT at the outskirts of Welcome Rotonda is Wellness City, a fitness gym and a beauty clinic that is strategically located right at the boundary of the cities of Manila and Quezon.

The beauty clinic goes by the name ALA Skin Care. ALA is named after the initials of its founder, dermatologist Alberto L. Adrales.

What makes the skin clinic unique, however, is that it has treatment specially made for men, and that was something I tried when I paid a visit there.

Because I had to attend a soccer coverage that time, I failed to meet Adrales in person, but the staff present still provided me with the facial treatment.

First, the usual things being done in a facial, like sprinkling your face with warm water and the removal of the pimples.

But what makes this facial unique, however, is the inclusion of a mask machine that aims to revitalize your face.

No! I'm not trying to cosplay Jason Voorhees for Halloween.

Unlike the other facial treatment that I've been, my face became clearer here at ALA.

Aside from the basic facial, ALA also offers specialized facials like the oxygen-revitalizing facial, the cryptofusion diamond peel and facial, and platinum peel and facial.

ALA also offers a fat-burning treatment called the multi-shape radiofrequency and thermal blanket.

ALA even offers fitness-oriented life coaching. After all, ALA's mission is "to provide complete healing of the body, mind, and soul."

ALA Skin Care--and the entire Wellness City area--is located at 4 E. Rodriguez Sr. Ave., Quezon City, just beside KFC. For inquiries, call (02)2561940 or 09178446060 or go to its Facebook page (Wellness City) and its Twitter page: @wellnesscityph.

Acer S7 laptop launched

ACER officially launched its new laptop, the Aspire S7, through a grand event at the SM Megamall Mega Fashion Hall in Mandaluyong on Saturday night.

Motivational speaker Francis Kong, beauty queen Megan Young, and singers Thor and Jonalyn Viray graced the said launch

The new S7 laptop weighs only 1.125 kilograms and has a 9.98mm ultra-thin factor, making it the world's thinnest laptop right now.

It is also built with the seventh generation Intel Core I5-7Y54 processor and the Windows 10 OS, making it still as effective as the other laptops.

Gamers need not fret about going for the S7 laptop as it is also compatible for DOTA 2 and LOL.

The new Acer Aspire S7 laptop is available for the suggested retail price of PHP64,999.

Victoria Court unveils new out-of-this-world room

VICTORIA Court, one of the leading hotel chains nationwide, launched their new themed room on Thursday night at their Pasig hotel.

Inspired by the Star Wars saga, the said room, aptly named "Space Wars", features a spaceship cockpit with light switches, pilot flight controllers, and sound effects so that the guests can play simulations of spaceship battles.

Also, guests can channel their inner cosplayers as costumes and weapons can be seen in the room as well.

The dishes to be served at the Space Wars room, which like the other rooms can be used for gatherings, are also Star Wars-inspired, like the black-bun Dark Side Burger, Panatrooper (Victoria Court's own take on Panna Cotta), and Jar Jar Drinks.

New Jollibee Yumbassadors named

FOURTEEN people who excelled in their respective fields were named the 2016 Jollibee Yumbassadors at One Esplanade in Pasay on Friday night.

Model Kelsey Merritt, startup owner Rachel De Villa, young inventor Angelo Casimiro, poet JM Severo, entrepreneurs Jairus Ferrer and Christopher Valentin, Palarong Pambansa gold medalist Mea Niñura, racer Marlon Stockinger, and globally-renowned Filipino quartet 4th Impact made the list of Jollibee's latest achievers.

“This year’s batch of Yumbassadors are proof of how millennials are – passionate, driven and determined, and always going for the best. This generation, the Gen Y or 'Proud Gen Yum', are impressive individuals and each of them are out to change the world,” said Jollibee Philippines Head of Marketing and Global Brand Chief Marketing Officer Francis Flores.

A place to unwind in the bustling city

I WAS at the middle of covering the PCCL finals when a friend of mine called me and asked, "Do you want to check out this hotel in Manila?"

I told her, "I will definitely be late considering I have to come from San Juan," but she replied, "That's OK."

So a jeep and two train rides later, I ended up at Hotel Kimberly along Pedro Gil Street.

While it may not be that near from the airport (12-kilometer distance), the location is good for the tourists who want to "feed" their social life (just a walking distance from Robinson's Place Manila, UP Manila, and the bars within the Ermita and Malate districts).

I eventually joined a few more bloggers in this presentation of Hotel Kimberly.

The hotel manager first led us to the restaurant.

Next up, we were shown the rooms. First was the superior room.

Then the deluxe room. There are two types of deluxe rooms, the single room, which is good for a maximum of two, and the family room, which can accommodate three at standard rate.

There is also the premiere family suite and the executive suite.

The premiere family suite.

The executive suite

Finally, we got a glimpse of the function hall. Since Hotel Kimberly Manila is located in a business district, it's great for offices who want to hold special meetings or even Christmas parties.

As aforementioned recently, we were toured around Hotel Kimberly Manila, which distinguishes it from the other Hotel Kimberly in Tagaytay.

Hotel Kimberly Manila is located at 770 Pedro Gil Street. For reservations, call (+632)52118888 or email the hotel at reservations@hotelkimberly.com

For more details about both Hotel Kimberly branches, go to hotelkimberly.com

New Honda BeAT motorbikes launched

ON Saturday, Honda released its new BeAT-FI eSP Series during the motoring company's Let Your Beat Out activity at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

Daiki Mihara, the president of Honda Philippines, Inc., is confident of the potentials of the new motorcycle series in the local scooter market.

“The New Generation BeAT-FI eSP Series is a reflection of Honda Philippines’ continued commitment to provide powerful, safe, fun, and worthwhile driving experience to the growing market of Filipino scooter enthusiasts,” Mihara pointed out.

The New Generation BeAT-FI eSP Series would hit the local retail markets literally and figuratively running, in terms of consumer interests, performance, and most notably sales. It has practically the same DNA as the Honda Click125i that was launched in February so Honda Philippines is quite confident that it will also be a success in terms of performance and sales given its affordability and expected wider market base. 

According to Elie Salamangkit Jr., Product Planning Manager of Honda Philippines, the New Generation BeAT-FI eSP Series is banking on its class-leading fuel efficiency, the Honda exclusive and industry-pioneering technology, stylish and sporty design, better utility, and affordability that is expected to strongly appeal to a wider market base, to immediately make its mark in the local scooter market.

The New Generation BeAT-FI eSP Series also features the Honda Smart Technology, a groundbreaking technology that Honda first used in the Honda Click125i that really caught the attention and envy of every market player in the Philippine motorcycle industry.

The Honda Smart Technology is actually what’s powering the New Generation BeAT-FI eSP Series to its very remarkable on-road performance punctuated no less by its class-leading fuel efficiency which is 63 kilometers per liter for its CBS/ISS variant and 58.5 kilometers per liter for the standard model based on the ECER40 test method.

Honda has also maintained its trend-setting safety and security features in the New Generation BeAT-FI eSP Series including a secure key shutter, a side stand switch, park brake lock, automatic headlight on (AHO), and the combi-brake system.

In terms of utility space, the New Generation BeAT-FI eSP Series has a larger utility box that is capable of accommodating 11.2 liters worth of personal items or safety equipment.

A closer look

So what is the Honda Smart Technology and how did it become industry leading and pioneering?

The Honda Smart Technology actually has three main features – the eSP, the ISS, and the Combi-Brake System (CBS).

The eSP means enhanced smart power. It is an advance engine technology that combines high power and high fuel efficiency with a quiet start and smooth eco-friendly engine. The technology enables the efficient combustion of the engine as well as minimizes friction thereby reducing waste. It optimizes energy output too. eSP technology is integrated with the unique Honda ACG starter to ensure that once the rider starts the engine, it would be jolt-free. It also supports the application of another advanced and exclusive Honda feature known as the Idling Stop System (ISS).

Under the eSP, there are many technological features including the Honda-exclusive ACG Starter, the PGM-FI, the CVT, among others. With the use of the ACG or alternating current generator starter-type system, there is no reduction gears and gear meshing noises thus ensuring smooth and quiet start. The PGM-FI is a technology pioneered by Honda since the introduction of the Honda CX500 Turbo in 1982, the world’s first fuel-injected motorcycle. It is programmed fuel injection which ensures higher fuel efficiency, power and torque while keeping emission low. CVT is continuous variable transmission which has become a norm in modern scooters. It allows for intelligent low friction and vibration.

The ISS feature of the Honda Smart Technology is another Honda exclusive and the first-of-its-kind in motorcycle application. The ISS automatically switches off the engine of the scooter during brief stops and thus saves fuel. The conventional idling of other scooters and motorcycles is that they continue to consume fuel even on idle mode. The rider also does not need to restart the scooter on ISS as he just needs to twist the throttle and the engine is automatically switched on again in less than a second.

The Combi-Brake System (CBS) is the feature that delivers controllability, convenience, and the sense of confidence for the rider because the technology in the scooter gives it the optimum braking power while reducing nosedive, which is very common in many scooters and motorcycles. Because the technology enables the application of the right amount of brake power on both wheels of the scooter, shortest stopping distance when braking can be achieved.

With the industry-pioneering and revolutionizing feature of the Honda Smart Technology, the New Generation BeAT-FI eSP Series is expected to blaze a trail of excellence for every succeeding scooter that will come out of Honda to follow. 

Filipino, Spanish dishes highlight Madrid Fusion

THE Philippines and Spain share a deep and colorful history, and what better way to celebrate these two cultures than through their vibrant and intertwined culinary traditions.

This April, the world’s most anticipated epicurean event will celebrate the two countries ’300 years’ worth of shared connection through food in one global event where the world’s top chefs showcase culinary innovations and cutting-edge techniques, ingredients and recipes taking food and dining to the next level. If one wants to see the “future of food,” this is the place to be in.

SM plays host to this historic affair and welcomes Madrid Fusion as it comes to Asia for the first time and puts Manila at the heart of culinary interest worldwide.

Madrid Fusion Manila 2015 happening on April 24 to 26 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City highlights the Philippines as an haute cuisine destination in Asia.

A welcome night at the scenic SM By the Bay for the official delegates is sure to put everyone in a good mood during the first day of the congress on April 24 where this time, it’s all about the best of Philippine food, art, and culture.

“SM is proud to be the venue of the historic Madrid Fusion Manila. We believe that one of the Philippines’ best-kept secrets is our rich culinary heritage,” expressed Steven Tan, SM Supermalls senior vice-president. “We also want to bring the excitement of Madrid Fusion, particularly Spain’s strong influence in our food and culture, to our mall-goers by taking these culinary festivities to our malls.”

To help create national awareness for this cultural milestone, the official Madrid Fusion Manila 2015 TV commercial is being aired in all SM Cinemas nationwide.

Set to captivate Manila with their culinary virtuoso are Spain and Asia’s legendary chefs Andoni Luis Aduriz, Elena Arzak, Quique Dacosta, Ramón Freixa, Francis Paniego, Paco Roncero, Mario Sandoval, Paco Torreblanca, André Chiang, and Alvin Leung.

Presenting the Philippines’ own diverse and imaginative epicurean traditions are chefs Fernando Aracama, Margarita Forés, J Gamboa, José Luis “Chele" Gonzalez, Pepe Lopez, Rob Pengson, Bruce Ricketts, Myrna Dizon, Claude Tayag, and Juan Carlos de Terry.

Taking centerstage at the congress will be this exciting encounter between Spain’s legendary Michelin-starred chefs and the Philippines’ very own culinary stars. A trade exhibition will focus on the finest Spanish and Filipino products from Spanish wines and cheeses, to the Philippines’ world-class exports such as rice, cacao, coffee, mango, coconut, and liquors.

A feast of everything delectably Filipino-Spanish shall delight foodies at the Gourmet Weekend Market from April 24 to 26 at SM Mall of Asia. A premium selection of cheese, tapas, wine, ingredients, local finds and special bundles shall be made available in partnership with SM Markets (SM Supermarket and Hypermarket).

New food concepts that reflect culinary innovation and technique will be available only this April at select SM Mall of Asia restaurants where special dishes with Spanish influence or cooked with the finest local produce, ingredients and flavors are sure to bring out your inner foodie.

Savory goodness awaits mall-goers of SM Aura Premier which shall host its own Spanish-themed fiesta with music, dancing, food and drinks on April 26 at the Sky Park lawn.

Also from April 24 to 26, irresistible dining deals await all food lovers at SM Megamall’s flagship and first-in-the-country dining destinations and the newly-opened Mega Food Hall.

Miss Teen Earth-Philippines finalists revealed

TWENTY young females from across the country will vie for the prestigious Miss Teen Earth-Philippines crown. The finalists were revealed during a press presentation at the Ace Hotel on Thursday.

Seventeen-year-old Trisha Apa-ap, Anna Alberto, Melody Infante, Julieane Fernandez, Joecel Robenta, Andrea Altamirano, Michaela Bernardo, Merl Gayo, and Erica Bayani will compete against 16-year-old Luzenne Jones, Madeleine Siewert, Bianca Willemsem, and Patricia Andulte, 15-year-old Andrea Rivera,  and 14-year-old Kirsten Delavin, Sarah Madrigal, Keanna Sanguyu, and Aloisa Jauid.

Carylle Mamon is the oldest finalist at 18 years of age, while Cindy Abella is the youngest at 13.

The beauty pageant aims to spread the news about environmental conservation among the youth.

As part of the advocacy, the candidates are tasked to return to their respective hometowns and implement the projects they proposed.

The coronation night will be set at a later date. It will be nationally televised on GMA.

Finanical freedom conference set for June 20

MOTIVATIONAL speaker and financial expert Chinkee Tan will share his knowledge on financial freedom in the KaChink Conference on June 20 at the Metro Tent.

In the said, Tan and other speakers will tackle how to properly budget your money and make the right investments.

Also, some of the very important details in Tan's best-selling books will be further discussed in the said conference.

After the conference, attendees are expected to get the knowledge needed to acquire the financial freedom that can make them "retire before the age of 50".

The ticket prices for the KaChink Conference are as follows: PHP1,800 for gold, PHP1,600 for silver, and PHP1,400 for bronze.

However, you can avail of the early bird promo, where PHP1,000 will be slashed off the regular price.

To avail of the discounted admission fees, just fill out the form below and check the KaChink box.

[Editor's Note: The writer is an accredited online lead generator for Chinkee Tan’s Book and Training Programs]

Digital Filipino opens more slots for E-Commerce program

Digital Filipino

Due to insistent public demand, Digital Filipino, in cooperation with the Asian Institute of E-Commerce and the AIE College, reopened the enrollment for the Certified E-Commerce Specialist, Entrepreneur, and Professional Training Program.

The program was well received by those who want to become equipped with knowledge on how technology and finance can co-exist that the organizers of the said course led by Janette Toral opted to accommodate those who failed to join in the first head-to-head sessions last January and February.

The new batch of students will begin its program on either March 14 (face-to-face) or March 19 (online).

Every module, except for Module 8, costs PHP 3,000. Module 8, which teaches you how to present your e-commerce proposal to a prospective client, costs PHP 6,000. However, you can enroll for the entire training program for only PHP30,000 if you pay through cash.

But for a limited offer, you can enroll for the said program and you can get a 10% discount. Just fill up the form below and wait for a confirmation from Ms. Janette Toral.

If you want to receive an exclusive 10% discount for the Certified E-Commerce Specialist, Entrepreneur, and Professional Training Program, just fill up this form and a discounted billing will be emailed to you.

Full Name

Email

Mailing address

Contact number

Educational attainment
High School College undergraduate College graduate Masteral education

Payment option
Bank deposit Paypal / credit card

Facebook profile url

Where will you attend?
ONLINE Makati Cebu Davao Dagupan

Janette Toral will send an email confirmation link to ensure no one is adding you without consent. Kindly check your bulk or spam folder in case it doesn't arrive in your inbox. Once confirmed, you will receive an e-mail that has the discounted e-mail billing.

Editor's Note: The writer is an accredited online lead generator for DigitalFilipinoTraining Programs.

Michelin teams up with Shell anew for eco-marathon

Michelin, in global partnership with Shell, welcomes back the Shell Eco-Marathon Asia (SEMA) for its second year in the Philippines at the Rizal Park, Manila on Feb. 26 to March 1, 2015.

The Shell Eco-Marathon is an international competition wherein student teams must create a safe and energy-efficient vehicle that promotes sustainable solutions for mobility. Michelin continues as the official global partner and tire supplier of the event in 2015.

An increased number of student teams will participate in SEMA 2015, with 127 teams from 17 countries from the Asia-Pacific and delegates from Australia, Saudi Arabia, Oman and South Africa. From the Philippines alone, 25 universities from all over the country with as much as 34 participating prototype vehicles are joining this year. The SEMA 2014 had 109 teams from 15 countries, and 15 teams from the Philippines among them.

“The Michelin and Shell partnership are aligned with valuing innovation for better mobility, that also pursues energy-efficient and safe solutions for mobility.” said Michael Nunag, Chief Representative of Michelin Philippines.

The Michelin tires for Shell Eco-Marathon are well-designed tires that are lightweight and provide low rolling resistance, providing optimal traction and longer travel time for the prototype vehicles. These tires are approximately 6 times more efficient than one of the best energy efficient tires on the market (Michelin Energy EV). Michelin will also be providing technical assistance and support to all the participant teams throughout the competition, by supporting them with safety advice and how to best utilize the tires for their vehicles to get the best performance.

Apart from the sponsor exhibition where the public will have a chance to see the product and performances of Michelin Tires, Michelin will host the Michelin Road Safety City 2015 at the Fanzone area at the SEMA 2015.  A first for SEMA in Manila, the concept behind Michelin Road Safety City is to get everyone, especially the kids, in on the importance of road safety.

“Road Safety is everyone’s responsibility. With Michelin Road Safety City 2015, what we want to bring to all the participants is the basic but important knowledge that will keep them safe on the road. This includes respecting traffic rules, the meaning of road signs, and how to avoid danger on the road. All the activities are designed to demonstrate the importance of road safety, with the hope that this will help to reduce road accidents,” said Ruedee Euachongprasit, Director of Communication and Brands, Michelin East Asia and Australia.

Join the Certified E-Commerce Specialist, Entrepreneur, and Professional Training Program

Digital Filipino

Learn from the best to become an online influencer in the e-commerce industry. Join the Certified E-Commerce Specialist, Entrepreneur, and Professional Training Program.

Here, you can learn the benefits of the internet in boosting businesses. In particular, you will learn how e-commerce has become a tool in improving the Philippines' economic competitiveness in the ASEAN and worldwide market.

Also, will learn about the e-commerce business and revenue model and ways to manage supply chain back-end and customer support.

You can also learn how to accept payments online, detect frauds, and secure your websites.

You can also use the knowledge you will acquire in this program to collaborate with prospective clients for start-ups and business expansion.

The first module of the training program will be held on the following dates: January 17 in Makati, January 24 in Cebu, January 31 in Davao, and February 7 in Dagupan.

If you can't make it to the aforementioned dates, you can join the online version, which will start on January 21.

Every module, except for Module 8, costs PHP 3,000. Module 8, which teaches you how to present your e-commerce proposal to a prospective client, costs PHP 6,000. However, you can enroll for the entire training program for only PHP30,000 if you pay through cash.

But for a limited offer, you can enroll for the said program and you can get a 10% discount. Just fill up the form below and wait for a confirmation from Ms. Janette Toral.

If you want to receive an exclusive 10% discount for the Certified E-Commerce Specialist, Entrepreneur, and Professional Training Program, just fill up this form and a discounted billing will be emailed to you.

Full Name

Email

Mailing address

Contact number

Educational attainment
High School College undergraduate College graduate Masteral education

Payment option
Bank deposit Paypal / credit card

Facebook profile url

Where will you attend?
ONLINE Makati Cebu Davao Dagupan

Janette Toral will send an email confirmation link to ensure no one is adding you without consent. Kindly check your bulk or spam folder in case it doesn't arrive in your inbox. Once confirmed, you will receive an e-mail that has the discounted e-mail billing.

Editor's Note: I am an accredited online lead generator for DigitalFilipinoTraining Programs.

Bohol Travel Fair opened

L-R: Mr. Reed Aeschliman, Cong. Rene L. Relampagos, DOT Sec. Ramon R. Jimenez Jr.,
BM Benjie Arcamo, Gov. Edgar M. Chatto, Atty. Lucas M. Nunag, Cong. Arthur Yap, and
Tagbilaran Mayor John Yap II formally opened the Bohol Travel Fair.

The first Bohol Travel Fair opened today at the Glorietta Activity Center in Makati City amid simple yet meaningful ceremonies.

The 3-day event, which runs today until January 11, 2015, serves to kickstart the province’s Visit Bohol 2015 tourism campaign, which hopes to lure local and foreign tourists, including businessmen, back to the province to explore its beauty and natural splendor and be part of its growing economy.

The initiative is also aligned with the Philippine government’s own “Visit The Philippines 2015” tourism campaign, a follow up to its successful “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” effort last year.

The Bohol Travel Fair, which is organized by the Bohol provincial government in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines (TPBPHL), and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), was attended by numerous VIPs, dignitaries and special guests from the province, the national government, the diplomatic corps, and other important stakeholders in the Philippine tourism scene.

The event also provided participants, mainly private resort owners, the opportunity to showcase the best of what they can offer to event guests and the general public when it comes to tourist attractions.

Wedding fair to start New Year at SM Megamall

Meet the best suppliers for your upcoming wedding or debut at the 16th Ultimate Wedding and Debut Fair to be held at SM Megatrade Hall 3, 5/F SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City on January 3-4, 2015.

Be entertained with various acoustic performances and learn a thing or two on wedding planning by our event planner exhibitors.

Also, get a chance to win an awesome 3-day, 2-night accommodation at Tugawe Cove, Caramoan Islands.

Simply register at www.weddingfairphilippines.com/weddingfairregistration and visit us during any of the two-day fair. No purchase required to be part of this raffle.

16th Ultimate Wedding and Debut Fair is presented by Island Exhibit & Events Management Link, Inc., together with AskJenneToday.co, Jack & Jenn Catering, Rotary Club of Las Pinas East, and Myther Events and Expo Inc.

This event is sponsored by Island Cove, VOffice, Center for Pop Music Philippines, Prestige Cruises, Easy Taxi with media sponsors GMA, BridalBook.ph, Kasal.com, View Magazine, and When in Manila.

FlipGeeks organizes geeky Christmas party

FlipGeeks, the number one portal for everything geek culture, The Appraisery and Rumpus Room is holding a "Geek Xmas Party" at Cubao Expo on Sunday, December 21, 2014 from 3pm to 12am. There will be various activities including raffles, board games and video games for the geek community, bloggers, and media people to enjoy. Registration to join the activities will start at 3pm and those registered will be entitled to one ticket for the raffle.

Together with FlipGeeks, owners Victor Prieto (The Appraisery), and Kiko Aquino(Rumpus Room) joined forces to bring us the "Geek Xmas Party" to help develop the local geek community by instilling a deeper sense of community between geeks – helping bridge the gap and enhancing the geek experience. This is made possible by the various members of the geek community, bloggers and media people bringing together various audiences of geek culture from comic book fans, moviegoers, video game fans, etc.

FlipGeeks' partners, The Appraisery and Rumpus Room, are also hosting activities for everyone. Get ready to be introduced to board games through The Appraisery and enjoy it with your friends. If the virtual world is more to your liking, let Rumpus Room show you how it's done.

Sykes turns SMX Pasay to E-Heads concert area in Christmas celebration with Buendia

Ely Buendia captivates the crowd with the timeless hits of his band
Eraserheads.

Over 6,000 Sykes employees gathered at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City to celebrate one "Popstatic" year-end party.

Hosted by TV personality Karen Pamintuan and Magic 89.9 DJ's Tony Bueno, Sam Gogna, and Eric Virata also known as the Boys' Night trio, the Sykes Christmas party became entertaining from the start.

The BPO company first handed out service awards to their longtime and most trusted employees.

Then a K-Pop dance contest took place where some of the best dance groups from different Sykes Metro Manila zones battle it out.

Manila South took home the win.

As the main highlight of the pop-culture themed year-ender, Eraserheads frontman Ely Buendia rocked SMX Pasay with the timeless hits of his 90's band.

Wendel Garcia, his bandmate at Pupil, one of his two other rock groups, also made an appearance and helped Buendia in bringing the music on drums.

Even Sykes' big bosses, Dean Van Ormer, Marc Guison, and Kenneth Juarez, pulled off an entertaining stunt as they danced to Robin Thicke's hit single "Blurred Lines".

Also, PHP2 million worth of prizes were given away to lucky Sykes employees in the raffle draw.

Sykes' branding and communications director Cecile Venancio lauded everyone who was involved in organizing the Christmas party.

"We only get to do this once a year, so we make sure that they all feel valued," she said.

Even the Cebu-based Sykes employees got a taste of the happenings in Pasay as a simultaneous Popstatic year-end party took place at the Queen City of the South.

About 3,000 Sykes employees from Cebu attended the said event.

Some more places to visit at the Riverbanks Center

Aside from the new Science Centrum, the Riverbanks Center also boasts of three more museums. Here is the list of the other three:

The Spirit of Bethlehem

This hanging Christmas tree is part of the Spirit of Bethlehem collection.

The Spirit of Bethlehem is a private collection of over 500 belens/nativity sets/posters/paintings and sculptures from all over the world.

It boasts of numerous pieces from here and abroad, collected through decades of devotion to the Infant Jesus, by its owner Gigi Abaya-Carlos.

Belens/Nativity sets from different countries like the United States, Mexico, Spain, Israel, Africa, Guatemala, China, and from the different regions of the Philippines will certainly catch your attention because they reflect the culture from where they originated. Some are made from different materials like papier mache, stones, glass, clay, resin and more. About 80% of these Belens are proudly Philippine-made.

Museum of Miniatures

After seeing all the Belens, one is awed by the collection of tiny but real-looking replicas of things you would find in all the different rooms of a European mansion. It is a collection of shadows boxes filled with Lilliputian pieces of 1:1 scale.

The miniatures are part of the collection of the late Aleli Vengua, a passionate artist who handcrafted most of the pieces herself. A lot of the materials used were scrap from items in our day to day living, be it plastic, wood, aluminum, fabric, and glass.

Each room is designed with so much detail and attention that one will never want to look away.

The Joey Velasco Gallery

Right next to The Spirit of Bethlehem is the Joey Velacso Gallery, now home to the spiritually moving art pieces and legacy of the late Joey Velasco. The artist was only 43 years old when he passed away because of a life-threatening kidney disease. Best known for his works “Hapag ng Pag-asa”, or “Table of Hope”, which depicts the Last Supper with Jesus and street children instead of the disciples, Velasco has stirred the hearts of many with his paintings.

Those who have seen his paintings will certainly attest that it is not just a gallery. Though there is an appreciation of art, it is more of a place of reflection. It is a “living museum” where art reflects the spiritual dimension of day to day living and sparks social awareness. According to Ms. Queeny Velasco, wife of the late painter/writer, it is a museum of “faith and patriotism”.

The gallery is being supported by the Joey Velasco Foundation (JVF) whose current priority is to give support to the Hapag Kids and their families of Hapag Village in Amparo, Caloocan City. The JVF created livelihood projects for them, gives training to enhance their skills and other activities for the value formation of the community.

To check out these places, go to the Riverbanks Center along A. Bonifacio Avenue in Marikina City. For more inquiries, visit Riverbanks' website.

A return trip to the Science Centrum

I was in my third grade when I had my one and only visit to the Philippine Science Centrum, which was still situated in Manila City then. Now, after almost 18 years, I was back at the Science Centrum, now based inside the Riverbanks Complex in Marikina City. Obviously, a lot has changed in the Science Centrum in the past 18 years.

While it's now not that accessible as it was then (it was once located at the Manila U-Belt area), it's more spacious, giving more room for new exhibits to be placed.

One of the Science Centrum's additions was this stationary bike in which once you tried it, the CFL's will light up, teaching us more about kinetic energy.

Another item I saw in today's Science Centrum that I did not see in my past visit was this finger tingler. We were lined up in a circle while holding our hands. I had my hand in the tingler, and once the exhibitor activated the machine, we felt the electricity. The machine teaches how electrocution can be passed.

Another cool thing I saw was this weighing machine that compares my earthly weight to that of the other planets. Thanks to the difference in the gravity level of each planet, we can be lighter or heavier at another planet. In fact, I found out that I can be about one-third of my size if I go to Mars!

Some more cool machines I found inside the new Science Centrum building were this apparatus, which can give you the experience to fly...

...and this one, which one turned on will emit an electric current as seen by the naked eyes.

I also tried out its shadow photo booth, but unfortunately, my photo of its was too dark enough. I also failed to take a photo of some optical illusion areas, but they were cool.

If you want to see them, just go to the new Philippine Science Centrum located at the E-Com Center of the Riverbanks Complex, A. Bonifacio Ave., Marikina City. From Cubao, New Manila, or Sta. Mesa, just ride a jeep bound for SSS Village or Calumpang. For more of the Science Centrum and the other museums inside the Riverbanks, visit Riverbanks' website.

Dulaang UP presents "The Country Wife"

Acclaimed director Tony Mabesa adapts and directs Dulaang UP’s fourth offering for its 39th season, the Philippine premier of William Wycherley’s The Country Wife. A classic sex comedy written in 1675, it satirizes hypocrisy and human judgment that dominated the Puritan Regime, issues that still hound contemporary society. DUP also stages Ang Misis Kong Promdi, a direct Filipino translation by Nicolas B. Pichay.

The Country Wife's plot revolves around the lives of men and women of high society; lives that are entangled in a paradox of love, marriage, reputation, mores, sexual conduct, and politics. A notorious philanderer’s homecoming ignites a series of infidelities and indiscretions. An innocent young woman from the countryside speaks honestly of her thoughts and desires posing a challenge to the gendered norms and moral codes of 16th and 17th century London. 

An ensemble of seasoned theatre actors headlines the cast- Martha Comia and Sue Prado alternate as Mrs. Margery Pinchwife the “country wife” of the title, who visits London for the first time and there slowly loses her innocence. Neil Ryan Sese and Jay Gonzaga take turns playing the lecherous and manipulative Harry Horner. George de Jesus and Tarek El Tayech play Jack Pinchwife, the jealous and potentially violent husband to country bumpkin Margery. Issa Litton and Karen Gaerlan essay the role of the intelligent and morally upright Alithea. Shamaine Centenera-Buencamino suits up as Mr. Sparkish, a dimwitted and narcissistic playboy, together with alternates RS Francisco and Arvin Trinidad. Ian Ignacio and Carlo Tarobal take the stage as Frank Harcourt, a rake who falls in love with the admirable Alithea.

Completing the stellar cast are Leo Rialp, Jacques Borlaza, Adriana Agcaoili, Dolly De Leon, Brian Arda, Sigmund Pecho, Bea Paloma, Rizzy Alejandro, Joanna Lerio, Ron Biñas, CesAldaba, Francis Mata, Aurora Yumul, Chona Fernando, Gian Carlo Patelo, Regina Mendezona and Yvonne Ricaro

The artistic team is a collaboration of some of theatre’s most creative minds. Lights design by Shakira VillaSymes, sounds design by Jethro Joaquin, technical direction by MelitonRoxas Jr., set design by Clint Ramos, costumes by Eric Pineda, dramaturgy by Joanna Lerio, and photography and posters by Dino Dimar.  

The Country Wife runs from November 19 to December 7, 2014 at the Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero Theater, 2nd floor Palma Hall, University of the Philippines Diliman. For tickets, sponsorships, and show buying inquiries, call Samanta Hannah Clarin or Camille Guevara 926-1349, 433-7840, 981-8500 local 2449 or email dulaangupmarketing@gmail.com.

A unique facial experience

By Ivan Saldajeno, Dugout Philippines

JUST like women, men need facial care too, so it's not surprising that boys go to facial centers too. However, I found a very unique facial center inside the Bonifacio Global City.

Skin Philosophie, formally called Skin Philosophie Medical Aesthetic and Lifestyle Solutions, offers a unique kind of treatment. I tried it out.

In my previous facial experience, I had my face sprinkled with warm water. However, at Skin Philosophie, there are no water sprinkler, and the machines used for the facial are totally different from the others.

Some of the machines used in my facial.

However, like the other facial centers, the mission is the same: to have a youthful skin free of the nasty pimples.

The entire facial process

After an hour of the clinic's signature facial, my face got refreshed, younger-looking, and clearer, that is, most of the pimples are gone.

Aside from the facial, Skin Philosophie, owned by Dr. Kyla Talens, offers other services.

In fact, Skin Philosophie offers a fat-burning radio frequency treatment where anyone who avails of the said service can shed off those unwanted fats and have that beach body he or she wants for the beach outings.

(Update as of April 1: For this summer season, however, Skin Philosophie offers an 80 percent discount on its RF treatment. For only PHP560, you can blast out the fats from you. The promo is good until May 31.)

For further details, you can visit Skin Philosophie at the third floor of the Fort Strip at the corner of 28th Avenue and 7th Street at the Bonifacio Global City. You can also call the clinic at 2118762, 2158080, or 8567451. You can also visit its website at skinphilosophie.com or its Facebook page at facebook.com/skin.philosophie.

(Update: The writer is now an accredited lead generator for Skin Philosophie Medical Aesthetic and Lifestyle Solutions, and as a special offer by the writer, you can avail any of the services in the said clinic for five percent off. If you wish to do so, just post a screenshot of this post, print it or save it to your gadget, and present it to Skin Philosophie. Be sure you have made your reservation a day before your treatment schedule.)