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.

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.

Top Digital Influencers Speak at DIMS 2014

Grace Nicolas, together with fellow bloggers Jennifer Gana and Ben Fran-
cia, will discuss how online journalists can become digital influencers in
the 3rd Digital Influencers Marketing Summit.

Hundreds of online media personalities will once again grace the third edition of the Digital Influencers Marketing Summit at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

Speakers from various facet of online media will make talks about the latest trends in the cyberspace.

In the first session, Anton Diaz of Our Awesome Planet and Junie Del Mundo of EON The Stakeholders Firm will discuss about how the ASEAN integration can still favor the digital influencers.

Afterward, DIMS organizer Janette Toral and Freelancer.com's Jojy Azurin will teach CEO's on how to become a digital thought leader.

Later on, Jonji Gonzales of TenMinutes.PH and digital marketer Apple Perez will look at the advantages of promoting travel, tourism, and culture online.

Meanwhile, ProFriends, a leading real estate firm, will have a talk on online real estate brokerage.

On the other hand, Hashtag Digital's Mannix Pabalan, Dominguez Marketing's Mel Dominguez, and Saddleback's Boris Joaquin will instruct the audience how to increase digital influence in search, e-mail, and social media.

Later in the day, Vanilla Digital's Lace Llanora, Elance's Ron Cirujano, entrepreneur Rosario Juan, and digital marketer Jeoff Salas will also do an instructional guide to building sustainable communities.

Finally, bloggers Grace Nicolas, Jennifer Gana, and Ben Francia will look at bloggers and even online journalists being digital influencers.

Toral lauded Nicolas, Gana, and Francia for doing the talk on bloggers.

She said, “Bloggers who step up and speak their minds are few and rare. They will not be able to please everyone but will definitely find a niche where their skills suit best.

To know more about the summit and to register, go to this website:

http://influencerbootcamp.digitalfilipino.com/course/digital-influencers-marketing-summit-2014-dimsummit/

Experience a Fun-Filled Day with the Yamaha Club Day

Yamaha club has something exciting for its valuable customers!

Since it has been established, Yamaha club has been giving its loyal customers the enjoyment of a two-wheeler lifestyle that strengthens the organization, both individual group and the Yamaha club in general. And with its continuous support to its clients, they have been showing now the big numbers of Yamaha club!

This June 7, 2014 at SM Mall of Asia Concert Ground, join them with another milestone of giving excitement to the 84,000 members and you might be one of them, too! Enjoy a day filled with fun, excitement, music and exclusive perks that will showcase the numerous highlights of the Yamaha club and its line-up of different socially-relevant activities, and will also bind the organization into one big family!

Yamaha club day also aims to show-off the big number of attendees of the event, striking an attempt to create bragging rights line with a new Guinness World Record.

What are you waiting for? Come and experience a vibrant lifestyle with Yamaha Motor Philippines!

“Revs Your Heart” with Yamaha International Motorshow

This June 4-8, 2014, join Yamaha as they take you to their “Yamaha International Motorshow”, which will be held at SM MOA Atrium Hall. This event will show off the innovative and unique features of its local and global models, as well as its various new products for 2014. Yamaha aims to bring in to every customer the new Yamaha exciting world, which will be showcased in this 5-day event.

Also, Yamaha will be launching to the public its new brand slogan, “Revs your Heart”, to highlight the ‘company’s passion for innovation by creating an exceptional value and experiences that enrich the lives of the customers.’ With Yamaha’s “Refined Dynamism”, the company aims to captivate and help create vibrant lifestyles through the new product line up and technology of Yamaha.

The new brand slogan came from the word “rev”, which simply means revving an engine, being associated to the human heart that pumps the blood through the body’s veins to make all the systems work properly. Revs Your Heart is a strong statement that is able to move people to greater heights and raise the quality of life. This is a statement that represents a deep sensation that lasts, a passion that endures.

Because of the company’s philosophy of providing its clients their satisfaction, Yamaha aspires to ignite a high-quality feel that projects the HEART of Yamaha through delivering an excitement ground that continuous to REV their exhilarating sense.

Together, let us all experience a colorful, vibrant motorcycle lifestyle with Yamaha! 

Compleat Smile Opens in SMX Pasay

The board of directors of Compleat Smile

Your smile will become more "compleat" as Compleat Smile Dental Clinic officially opened at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

Compleat Smile directors Ebot Velasquez, Francis Winston Guico, Cathy Domingo-Guico, Melinda Acosta, Jonathan Acosta and Jun Arioder attended the event. Model Michelle Go and actor Arjo Atayde also graced the event.

Korean dentist Dr. Um In-Woong also came to the opening as the guest of honor. Earlier in the day, he had a talk about tooth auto-banking, one of the latest innovations in dental technology.

Owned by Global Aesthetics Inc., Compleat Smile offers 100% commitment to everyone's dental health and well-being by giving the highest quality dental care while handling his concerns well.

Compleat Smile can be found at Unit G9 of the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. For inquiries, call (02)8311814 or visit its website at compleatsmile.com or its Facebook page.

Yoshinoya Reopens in MOA

(L-R) Pasay City Mayor's Office Chief of Staff Albert Paredes, Yoshinoya
Century Pacific President Timmy Yang, SM EVP for Operations Perkin So, and
Japanese Embassy Director Tatsuo Kitagawa cut the ribbon to formally reopen
the Yoshinoya Mall of Asia Branch. Alice Mate

Yoshinoya's Pasay branch is back with a bigger restaurant. The Japanese resto's store at the SM Mall of Asia was reopened at its new location along the ground floor.

Timmy Yang, Yoshinoya Century Pacific Inc. President, Perkin So, SM EVP for Operations, Tatsuo Kitagawa, Director of the Embassy of Japan, and Pasay City Mayor's Office Chief of Staff Albert Paredes graced the ribbon-cutting ceremony signaling the reopening of the Yoshinoya branch.

The reopening of the MOA branch ups the number of Yoshinoya restaurants to seven with other branches located at the Fairview Terraces and the SM North EDSA in Quezon City, Robinson's Galleria and SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City, Glorietta in Makati City, and the SM City Manila in the said city.

Yoshinoya is home to the world famous Gyudon beef bowl.

Circus Vargas Brings “MagiKaria!” to Pasay

The magic of Christmas will be even more captivating–and jaw-dropping–with the arrival in Pasay of the internationally acclaimed Circus Vargas troupe, one of the world’s biggest traveling circuses.

Showcasing gravity-defying flights, flashy costumes, fun dance routines, and other deliriously delightful antics, Circus Vargas will be bringing to the country its most exciting production dubbed as “MagiKaria, A Fantastical Magical Experience.”  

This amazing production will feature the astonishing athleticism, physical beauty and acrobatic prowess of the men, women and children of the circus, promising to deliver the same immense joy and excitement already experienced by millions of people worldwide.

Circus Vargas promises to bring back the old school circus entertainment mixed with modern twists. There’s the fabulous fluidity of the aerial ballet that uses streams of chiffon material hanging from the ceiling. There’s also Zorro Low Wire who leaps and flips over various obstacles in his way, and other acrobats doing some fun trampoline style tricks. 

Equally mesmerizing is the upbeat juggling styles of Michael Ferreri, a 4th generation performer who started at 13 years old, together with the death-defying cannon jumper Leo Garcia.  Then there’s the thrilling trio of motorcycle riders doing their dangerous stunts inside the round metal cage called the Thunder Globe. 

Charismatic illusionist Patrick Gable will also perform his mystifying illusions that are guaranteed to impress, astound, and make everyone in the whole family a believer of MagiKaria. 

This extravaganza of magical proportions will be held at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City from December 25 to January 1, 2014. 

Tickets are now available at SM Tickets, SM Cinema, and Snack Time outlets. For inquiries, call Tropical Productions, Inc. at 519-8984, email info@tpiguam.com, or visit www.circusvargas.com. -PRC Inc.

Team Car Porn Dominates MAS 2013

Joey Mead-King came for her husband to lead Team Car Porn in MAS 2013.

Team Car Porn Racing was the big winner of Manila Auto Salon 2013 at the SMX Convention Center at SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

The preparation of the Car Porn Racing team was long and hard but everyone was excited as this was the first time all four RWB-Porsches from the Philippines will be showcased for the country to see. All efforts paid off as RWB Victoria, General, Akira, and Ellise made heads turn and left people in awe. We did not need hot models to draw a crowd. The RWB's gathered their own crowd.

The booth was jampacked on the first day as fans lined up to the meet and greet the RWB legend, Akira Nakai. 100 lucky fans were given a chance to meet him and take home a Nakai signed poster.

Celebrities which included Sam YG, Dianne Medina, and Ramon Bautista were sighted taking pictures and hanging around the RWBs. In absence of sorely missed Car Porn director Ian King, Joey Mead-King showed full support by visiting Victoria and happily posed for everyone. She showed the crowd how to definitely model like you mean it. Our booth has been one of the busiest as limited edition items from Hoonigan and Victoria Court were sold and the last batch of Victoria Court Elite black and Pink cards and merchandise were given to participants who like our Facebook fan page.

The RWBs sure made history as the organizers had to create separate awards to acknowledge them. Victoria, the first RWB made in the Philippines, won Best Body Kit Import and General bagged two major awards, Best Tuner and Best in the Show. This is the first time in history for one car to get both awards. Amazing win for Team Car Porn Racing indeed!

SM Cinema to Host the Philippine Premiere of Fast & Furious 6

SM Mall of Asia is ready to go fast and furious.

SM Cinema, the country’s home of premiere nights, will host the upcoming Fast and Furious 6 premiere which will be held at SM Mall of Asia on May 15, 2013. The film’s lead action star, Vin Diesel, along with fellow stars Michelle Rodriguez, Gina Carano, and Luke Evans, producer Neal H. Moritz, and director Justin Lin will be coming to the Philippines to be part of this exciting movie event.

Fast & Furious 6 continues in the tradition of thrilling fast‐paced car chases, action, and suspense that has made the movie franchise a worldwide sensation. Vin Diesel, Paul Walker and Dwayne Johnson lead the returning cast of all‐stars as the global blockbuster franchise built on speed races to its next continent. Reuniting for their most high‐stakes adventure yet, fan favorites Michelle Rodriguez, Jordana Brewster, Tyrese Gibson, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Sung Kang, John Ortiz, Gal Gadot, and Elsa Pataky are joined by badass series newcomers Luke Evans and Gina Carano.

Fast & Furious 6 is a United International Pictures Release through Solar Entertainment Corporation. The film will be released in theatres across the Philippines on May 24, 2013.