Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach's Homecoming at Smart Araneta Coliseum

It was a night of grace, class and elegance of the Filipina Beauty Queen. I've never been into pageants that much but have really high regards to the people who live an breathe it. We are all proud of our contestants and made sure they've got the backing of a nation when voting online, campaigns are concerned. We've now gotten Filipino designers to actually do the gowns too and pretty much did all the things we hoped would change our fate in the Miss Universe competition, and it did bear fruit. After 40+ years of waiting for it, we finally have Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach as our new Ms. Universe 2015, at the most opportune time and slightly controversial one at that. We were a little sad she didn't get to do a proper Ms. Universe walk so when her homecoming was prepared, they arranged a part of the program to be her official walk. Here's some excerpts, a collection of 3 videos as part of our coverage of Pia's Homecoming a few days ago. Thanks to the goodness of SMART Communications, PLDT Home for having us!

Erik Santos and Yeng Constantino opened the show. Xian Lim hosted it together with Dianne Castillejo and Venus Raj. A parade of former beauty queens who won the Bb. Pilipinas - Universe title also happened that evening.

  

This is Part 2, the reveal of Pia whilst she was serenaded by Piolo Pascual and her crush Sam Milby.

This is part 3 where Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach did her official walk as Ms. Universe 2015. She wore the Blue Gown that Albert Andrada made for her during the actual pageant. She was stunning!

Again, thanks to the lovely people at Smart Communications and PLDT Home for having us!

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Kanye West x adidas Releases Yeezy Boost 350

I love shoes. Hence this story. I've been looking for a shoe exactly like this but in a different color. They released this in White, Black and Gray initially and now it's in Tan. I super like the concept of Kanye West and adidas Originals but this would only work with people who like neutrals. 

This Yeezy Boost 350 in Tan was just released before the year ends and I'm sure guys would probably have this on their trees since yesterday. I like the knitted form, the breezy feel, as the BOOST was made for comfort, performance and style. They did a really good job with the design and materials now with the help of current technology.

This costs a hefty but worthy Php 11,495 in stores like Commonwealth, Sole Academy or adidas.com so you better hurry before it runs out!

KUMAGCOW

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10 Reasons Why You Should Watch Haunted Mansion by Regal Films this MMFF 2015

I had the chance to watch the movie in advanced so I think I'd be able to tell you reasons why you should watch Regal Film's entry to the Metro Manila Film Fest. I'll add a couple more reasons because we got to also talk to Direk Jun Lana and Janella Salvador after the screening and discussed scenes and more things about it without spoiling the movie. Let's start!

1. The story is interesting. You've got an interesting mix of the past and the future. There are several background information that isn't noticeable in the trailer which you'll find out if you discover the mysteries they put in it. There's a LOT!

2. They went over budget. They wanted this first salvo be something that would look good when you watch it in theaters and they've extended shooting just to give you scenes which can be only shot at night time. Even at the irk of Producer Mother Lily. It's not cheap.

3. Graphics are good, done in just specific scenes so you could still see some sort of realism as Direk puts it. You'll see that in the scenes of LJ Reyes specifically.

4. It was shot in a real mansion, owned by the Marcoses. They needed to make it grand and put in stuff to make it realistic. They also made graves at the back, which made people a little scared even if thet were the ones who put it there in the first place. 

5. You'll be scared, and you'll find interesting twists in the story. Don't be too complacent that the movie is already done. There's always a surprise waiting to happen. You'll be afraid over and over again.

6. Janella did a good job. She might even be nominated for best actress. 

7. If box office success isn't the measurement, they could even be in the running for Best Picture. Who knows?

8. The Marlo Mortel, Jerome Ponce and Janella Salvador love story is cute. Who's gonna win her heart? The answer might shock you, so you have to watch the film.

9. Janella is thankful for the trust given to her. The script has been made and updated for 6 years waiting for the right cast, and they just happen to be there at the right time. 

10. The friends, the enemies, the bullies and the cheerleaders actually make quite a stir. Some of them might die but you have to watch it to know who.

Here's our interview of Direk Jun Lana and Janella. 

Make sure you watch it on theaters today because it's something different. I saw people closing their eyes inside the theater, you might be doing that too. Trust me on that part. Congrats Haunted Mansion! I hope you do get good things on opening day!

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Regal Films Official MMFF Entry: Haunted Mansion

Had the chance to watch Haunted Mansion during the Midnight Screening in the Theater in Greenhills. The film stars Marlo Mortel, Janella Salvador and Jerome Ponce. The premise is actually a retreat that turned out to be a creepy journey since Janella's character can see spirits. 

On the contrary she doesn't seem to be afraid of it, she takes on knowing the story behind each of them and try to find a way to figure their stories out. The film's been able to give a couple of shocking moments especially during the scenes with LJ Moreno. Sharlene San Pedro injects most of the humor as she plays Janella's best friend. Marlo Mortel and Jerome Ponce will in some way fight it out to get Janella's attention, and hopefully fall in love. That, in between horror scenes inside and outside the actual mansion.

 Add to that the really creepy characters that appear every now and then, you'll find this movie a good thing to watch for teens. Ella has a secret and she'll be telling you about it during the scene where she confides it with Marlo. Then they had to stay in the Mansion for one extra day because of the naughtiness of a few of her classmates, now they're going to be really stupid if they did a ghost hunt right? But they did. That starts a whole lot of problems of course. A plus on the graphics, a plus on the story, a plus on the fright once you see the flooding starts.

If a fright is your kind of fun, go watch it in cinemas on December 25 during the Metro Manila Film Festival. If you're looking for variety, this would really be something you could add on the movies you plan to watch during this season. Great job Direk Jun Lana!

Ciao!

KUMAGCOW

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Alden Richards for "My Bebelove #KiligPaMore" this MMFF 2015

He was sick, really under the weather when he was in the blogcon a few weeks ago for "My Bebelove #KiligPaMore". This is Alden Richards', Vic Sotto, Aiai Delas Alas and Maine Mendoza's movie under OctoArts Films and APT Entertainment. It's already being felt in theaters today that it's a box office hit because of the lines I saw earlier in the mall. They also had a lot of theaters for it yet it's looking like the lines won't stop. Hopefully they already fixed the dubbing issues they've seen during the premier. This is another feather to the hat of Direk Joey Reyes because they're not looking for awards this year, but a material that would make all the fans of AlDub happy. They're taking on different roles this time and will shy away from the regular KiligSerye characters they portray in Eat Bulaga. This will also show a different Vic Sotto, more on the macho gentleman side, plus an extremely funny Aiai Delas Alas who's said to be ready to capture the long lost crown of being Comedy Queen in Philippine cinema. 

As of this writing, I couldn't get to watch it again because I won't be able to muster enough strength to line up that long. I will try the reserved seats perhaps tomorrow. It's looking like a successful Metro Manila Film Festival is in the midst and I can't wait to see the figures which they say is coming out tomorrow morning. Alden and Maine's magic continues to be a formula that everyone's still embracing and I hope the whole AlDub Nation would continue to support them this MMFF. They're counting on you guys!

Here's a video excerpt of the "My Bebelove #KiligPaMore" blogcon.


My Bebelove Blogcon with Alden Richards and... by kumagcow

This film shows today until next month so make sure you get to watch it with the whole family! Fall in love all over again with Alden and Maine plus Bossing Vic and Aiai! This is under OctoArts Films and APT Entertainment! Unfortunately Maine couldn't be interviewed on this day because she was caught in traffic and was coming from a remote location in Rizal after their Eat Bulaga location shoot!

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Maricris Garcia Releases New Single "Ako Na Lang Ang Bibitaw"

The last time I had the chance to see Maricris Garcia was September last year. It was during a charity event in Quezon City and it was raining hard that I didn't get to interview much because it was packed. She of course is part of legendary group La Diva wherein she was together with Aicelle Santos and Jonalyn Viray. Now that they've been able to hold successful individual careers, they're continuing to impress a lot of people, me included. Before this interview, I've seen Aicelle Santos and Jonalyn Viray perform live during Regine Velasquez' concert. This one was an opportune time to hear her sing. 

She's actually also releasing a new single called "Ako na lang ang bibitaw" (I'm letting you go), a material they've long been keeping in GMA Records' coffers for future use. She was just around the studio when she was talking to people when first heard the song from the other room. They suddenly stopped and exclaimed "That song is just so deep! What is that?" then proceeded to the other room and asked about it. That stuck to Maricris' mind for a couple of weeks then one day she received a call from GMA Post Prod telling her she'll be recording a new song. She told them about that same song she heard in the studio and she was shocked that it was actually the same one being offered to her. Talk about serendipity no?

Maricris has been able to achieve a lot in the past few years. She also sang several theme songs for shows like "Mga Mata ni Angelita" (Nang Dahil Sa Iyo), Marimar (Mahal Kita) and "Babangon Ako't Dudurugin Kita" wherein she did "Kung Sana Bukas" and currently, she's part of Marimar playing the iconic Natalia Montenegro. Aside from her acting gigs, she really doesn't have that much venue to actually sing songs because the previous show Sunday All Stars was always there every Sundays. She did oblige to sing a few lines for us

Here's our short interview with her on video:

Maricris Garcia Releases New Single "Ako na... by kumagcow

They're already recording a few more songs in hopes of perhaps releasing a full album, but for now you can enjoy the single "Ako na lang ang bibitaw" on iTunes and digital stores nationwide. Make sure you tell your friends who are already fond of the Pinoy Pop Superstar champion, make this your next glimpse of Maricris Garcia as she takes you further with her music. This is under GMA Records.

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Oishi Snacktacular 2015!

This is it! Tomorrow looks so good as Oishi goes out and celebrate a day of fun, good snacks and drinks at the Trinoma Activity Center in Quezon City. It starts on Friday August 7, up until Sunday August 9th. Aside from that, you might see someone you'll like. I heard their endorser might drop by, and you know who that is!

You'll love the available Oishi Slush C+, Chogo Chug Ice Cream, Oishi Pillows, Wafu Leche Flans and a lot more extraordinary creations made from your favorite and original Oishi snack items. You know, you're going to miss a lot when you don't go to Trinoma this weekend! 

I'll be there too so don't take photos while I'm having Oishi Pillows LOL! 

Ciao!

KUMAGCOW

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Huawei Holds Philippine ICT Roadshow 2015

We got invited to cover Huawei's ICT Roadshow which happened in Dusit Thani in Makati, Philippines. It's an opportunity to learn, and how Filipino information technology decision makers would be able to take advantage of the many hardware advancements that Huawei can actually provide for servers, mobile devices and make internal network efficiency and security a reality. Huawei Philippines has been one of the leaders in this industry and they've been working hand in hand with government agencies, private corporations and institutions to help in nation building. Tall order, but its achievable. It's a give and take thing, and I think that if they want to grow as a company, they had to make changes and show what they could offer the Philippines. 

As Jackie Gao CEO of Huawei says "We are trying to make things possible. We believe technology and communication will enrich lives. Let's build a connected Philippines."

To open the event, they also invited Mr. Monchito Ibrahim of DOST and he says "June is the ICT month in the Philippines and we've seen how the internet has revolutionized the way Filipinos live their lives. Internet fuels the economy too, jobs have been created there. 18.6 US dollars has been generated in the ICT alone, being connected is sharing ingenuity and innovation. The real test is how to make challenges be resolved locally and start digitally empowering our countrymen even in the countryside. We are optimistic that the free internet program to be launched in major cities soon will make no Juan be left behind. As we aim to be the global leader in this sector, innovations through commerce has been done together with ICT corporations like Huawei like  the startup challenges we held last month and I wish everyone would help make this country a global leader in this segment." He also mentioned he used to compete with Huawei in the past, he was glad to be invited this time to speak in front of tons of IT professionals that afternoon.

The projected 6.4 GDP growth this year, low inflation rate and additional employment will make business models in connectivity a success in the Philippines because it is innate in Filipino homes to stay connected. We have millions of cellphone subscribers and are still expected to grow. The NTC is working with also with Huawei in making sure stakeholders are taken cared of. The new normal in the Philippine climate will make disaster response and security solutions to be put in place, Huawei can help the country in this sector. ICT will thrive in the years to come, increase in broadband connectivity increases a country's GDP to result in a more robust economy.

Jubert Alberto of IDC Philippines says "No company can survive without the heavy use of social media as we continue to change marketing strategies and becoming omni channeled so they can thrive on platforms. Telcos should provide stable and reliable connectivity so we all can gain access to cloud and big data services. BPO's will push more emerging business models as services. There is a rise in millenials and they want it now, they want it fast, there is a large room for growth and I hope Huawei would be able to help the Philippines".

They also launched the OceanStor V3 which are enterprise level storage systems that can still adapt older devices and new ones so they can work together (hardware and systems) without totally phasing them out. That would save corporations a lot of money in the long run and the premise is, big data plus reliable storage units can adapt to new technology with their devices running it. There will be more network and mobile devices that Huawei will be dishing out in the next few years. Information officers should take a look at what's possible to salvage so they can still efficiently use rather than changing whole systems abruptly which will need more resources like manpower, hardware, plus training costs. Congratulations Huawei for a very successful ICT Roadshow, I really learned a lot!

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Special Offers From Discovery Properties On PTAA 2015

It's another year and another time for the PTAA 2015. Tons of corporations, travel agencies, hotels and resorts converge at the SMX Convention Center to promote the best deals, their places and the whole Philippines in general. The Discovery group of luxury resorts is bringing in their A game and pushing forth unbelievable deals in their property and give you a much closer view of what it feels to be in their hotels, resorts and the islands. This is it! 

See what I mean? You and your loved ones are missing a LOT! If I were you, I'd visit them at SMX today!



It's also their 15th Anniversary and they're dubbing it as DISCOVERY XV and will run today February 13 up until the 15th and it'll surely get thousands of visitors from all over the Philippines and other countries. Make sure you get their stays in prime properties such as Discovery Suites in Ortigas, Discovery Country Suites Tagaytay, Discovery Shores Boracay, Club Paradise Palawan and the soon-to-open Discovery Primea Makati. Go on and email them at corpsm@discovery.com.ph or log on to http://tinyurl.com/Discovery-XV for more details. Oh and please try to walk in to the venue if you're not doing anything this weekend. 

You can also visit their website http://discoveryhotels-resorts.com/ and do it from there. But remember, special offers and discounts will only be in the PTAA fair! 

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Marites Allen Updates for 2015: Year of the Sheep

We attended the convention of Marites Allen at the Luxent Hotel in Quezon City. As I'm writing this outside the veranda, the place is packed with fortune and Feng Shui enthusiasts from around Metro Manila. I couldn't even get a seat literally because of that. 

Generally, 2015 is seen to be very nice. More so if you are born in the right hour, day, month and year and complement the element and animal sign that's bound to be lucky. 

As for relationships, although it's going to be elusive for me this year - I don't really mind. I can also do things to suppress it by using charms and enhance other things that I'm lucky with according to the charts. Feng Shui is basically how you can make your environment work for you. We just have to be guided by it but we still control our destiny. There's nothing wrong following simple rules to become ultimately happy right?

For those who would love to do something about their house and follow the flow, the East is where the Sun rises but you can follow a simple gradient so you can subdivide the section of your house into the directions where you need to take action. Illness on the Southeast, Robbery in the South, Hostile people in the Center (do not put wood or water in that area), and some unluckiness in the West (throw out old charms that absorbed much bad elements already and get new ones to supress it). 

People here take matters of their fortune seriously. They know how much Ms. Marites Allen offer only the most practical advises even though it all looks so luxurious here. Her new line for Frigga not only have pieces that look so gorgeous on women - but brings an added bonus of luck by getting all the auspicious symbols in it. So when you lack one or more things in your animal sign, it'll get you all the help you need. She's also launching a book early next year indicating pieces and prints that you can wear every month so you don't have to do the guess work. Frigga has really outstanding titled people working behind it that also worked with other brands and some critically acclaimed as well.  

Some of the nice things you would see in the World of Feng Shui stores and Frigga outlets soon!

Now you've got the best of both worlds. You've got the best designs and clothing, plus the one of the most revered real masters and authority in Feng Shui. You don't get that title just by practicing it and studying about it because there are certifications that come with that awarded by a governing body. Unfortunately I heard some people are abusing that and presenting themselves as masters. Marites Allen is the real deal and she's doing things that have benefited some of the most noted personalities in the Philippines including Boy Abunda, Kris Aquino, Lucky Manzano, Jennylyn Mercado and Chinese moguls to name a few. She wants everyone to benefit from it and the way she's going, she's gotten a ton of countries in Europe and Asia already in her belt. She's never going to forget the Philippines of course. To know more, you may check out her personal website http://maritesallen.com/ and Frigga's Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/Frigga888. She's also coming out with stuff for men beginning with the leather wallets which we saw during the Feng Shui Convention this afternoon. Aside from that, you can visit World Of Feng Shui outlets in leading malls nationwide! That I gotta see!

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