Piolo Pascual and Toni Gonzaga: Starting Over Again

I know.... we're starting over again. LOL! That's what you do when you can't think of a way to introduce this story. Well, just the thought of Madame Olivia Lamasan directing this movie spells award all over it. Do you remember Madrasta? That movie gave Sharon Cuneta her grand slam. So if this is something from the same woman who made that masterpiece, we wouldn't be surprised if Toni Gonzaga or Piolo Pascual wins something too.

Our talk was really relaxed and non formal. We didn't delve too much on the details but we talked a lot about the creative process and how Piolo, Toni and Iza's characters became who they are in the movie. When it was being made, we had a hunch that it was going to be a romcom since it's pretty much going to bank on Toni Gonzaga's love for Piolo (remember the softdrink commercial?). Direk Olive said that before they made the film, they got the cast go through a small exercise where they wrote down their interpretation of the characters in the script. Their answers were not as what Direk Olivia thought it would be because it became a little serious; and very cerebral. Direk laments Piolo was serious but found him more intelligent now. She can't believe what she's hearing or reading when she asks Piolo to explain some scenes. A mark that he really has matured, and she's happy to see that.

When Piolo also first heard about the cast, add to that the Director... he said "This is the project which he has been waiting for. This is worth the wait." He also lauds Direk Olive about their past project and says highly about her. Direk says Piolo never changed a bit because he's still the humble guy she saw when they filmed "Milan" in 2004. That was also a hit by the way, and she says... this project would be something new but you can never discount the natural chemistry between Toni and Piolo. That's generally where they are banking on and appreciate that fans are seeing the trailer's message.

 I went in and said that I already am congratulating them because if it weren't for the crowd at that venue I could have cried a bit because of the scenes. Direk asked me why but I just said my love life is not for public consumption hahah. But really, it will move you to tears. You'll see some scenes you can relate to because it reflects real life. There are more reasons to watch this but no matter how you put it, this is a great movie that's got a perfect storyline. The movie is organic and it grew on them. If it goes out on theaters nationwide, make sure you line up because as we see it... this is a hit!

I don't watch that much Filipino movies, but this one's good so I'll try going to the premier night if possible!

For more information about their movie:

Star Cinema

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http://www.starcinema.com.ph

Stylish and the Best Cases for iPhone 5/5S: The SwitchEasy MELT

Been trying to find the perfect case for my iPhone 5 and iPhone 5s. I only have a few things in mind as a standard but mainly it just needs to aesthetically fit my personality. It just happened to land on my hand a few days ago and it was one of the biggest surprise. 

This one's from Switcheasy and promptly called MELT. 

It promises Ultimate Protection with its sturdy construction and hydro polymer material. It's something more environmentally sustainable than regular PVC.

My current iPhone 5 case looks like a car ran over it. It's screen protector also has bubbles on top and it can give tiny bubbles a run for its money lol. 

Aesthetically the SwitchEasy MELT looks like melted plastic. I extremely like that effect. It's also available in a multitude of colors which looks cool when you put it beside your friends phones. I also showed this to my friends and they agree that it looks totally awesome.

Since it's made with two layers, you get that extra protection on your iPhone5/5S that you need if you accidentally bump or drop your phone on a regular day. Aside from that, you've got the Power Button, Volume Buttons, Audio Port, Speakers and Charging Port covered so you're assured that no crevices are left to suffer the elements while on everyday use. I specifically like the port covers because that's been a problem with my other case as it always gets dirty without me noticing it. 

SwitchEasy MELT's makers also made sure that you won't have any issues with the camera view since the double layer of protection is a little thick. There's ample angle on the holes in the back which is very neat for iPhone photographers and Instagram enthusiasts. Wide shots are a breeze!

What's also neat is that when you buy the SwitchEasy MELT case, you'll also get a shiny screen protector with it. I already proceeded to take out the old one and wipe the iPhone5/5S screen clear. Then after making sure its clean, I went ahead and put in the new one. If there are bubbles, make sure you have scotch tape on stand by to remove dust off of it. Make sure you don't touch the adhesive part, but you won't have problems with that since its properly labeled.

If you see bubbles on the side, rub it off with the cleaning cloth that came with your screen protector on an outward motion. It'll be gone in no time. I think I've found the unique design, best color and protection that I've been looking for, and that's all in the SwitchEasy MELT.

For what its worth, I like the SwitchEasy MELT iPhone5/5S case. I've been using it for a week now and so far, it's outclassed my former one. It's also available in a lot of tech shops/resellers like 8Telcom, Astrovision, BCG Computer, Banana Telecom, BCG Computers, Beyond the Box, CellShoppe, Digital Arena, Digital Hub, Digital Walker, District 32, E-Central, Electrocomputer Data System, Games and Gadgets, Graphic All In, iCenter, iCon, iGig, JMB Albay Gadgets, Islands and More (NAIA T3), Landmark, Microstation, Mobile 1, PC Hub, SEATAC, Senco Link, Silicon Valley, Sync, Technoholics, The Inbox Store, Vertex, Sidrah, Gui and iBook stores nationwide. Although I would strongly advise yo to go with Digits Trading (https://www.facebook.com/digitstrading) since they've got other things inside the store that you might fancy too.

Follow them on twitter for updates and more products https://twitter.com/digitstrading

For more information about their stores:

Digits Trading

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I'm on the Glucerna 1-2-3 Challenge!

I have to get you in on this one. I've been having some problems with heightened sugar levels and it's been bothering me for quite some time now. I haven't been a good boy when it comes to softdrinks, juices and desserts. Add to that my hard headed lifestyle of not drinking too much water too. Plus I've got a whole clan afflicted with a lineage of diabetes. Hope springs eternal as they say. Well, I just downloaded the Glucerna PH App on the App Store this morning and tried out the Glucerna 1-2-3 challenge. They gave me a few boxes of Glucerna SR Vanilla and Chocolate a few days ago to get this started, thanks to the great people at Abbott Laboratories. Together with my goal to shed a few pounds, I'll be replacing one of my meals with Glucerna SR and see if it does wonders to my sculptured German physique and washboard abs LOL.

This isn't magic so I would need a couple of things done like managing my diet and a little exercise. Since I quit gym a few months ago, it'll be a little hard. I know people will tell me things and call me names but I don't care. If it's going to get my schedules, meals and activity fixed I don't mind going through this Glucerna 1-2-3 Challenge. I'm a warrior and I don't really back out of challenges. Plus, who doesn't want rewards right? Yeap you heard that right, there's a whole catalog dedicated to rewards when you follow the program to a T. Take the first step to your Glucerna 1-2-3 Challenge at https://www.glucerna123challenge.com.ph/.

I'll tell you if it works or not soon. I'm warning you though that I might be a little crazy or cranky at times. Me without food is going to be difficult, but if this is for my health I've got to swallow the bitter pill and do this! Click here for the app download in GOOGLE PLAY STORE or the Apple App Store here.

Note: I was chosen to be given samples by Glucerna. Opinions stated on this post are my own. This is not a paid post and honestly, I'm loving the Vanilla! :)

For more information about their product:

Glucerna SR

Visit their official website

https://www.glucerna123challenge.com.ph/

Infrastructure Matters: IBM's System X

IBM announced today the 6th generation of its enterprise level X-Architecture for System X and PureSystems servers. This sparks a seamless addition to new and improved x86 based systems that would be great for analytics, cloud and large data.

IBM believes that change is inevitable. With a new era of business opportunities and very dynamic data size and sources, it is time to prepare to make use of better structures and framework. Analytics and big data handling is essential to remain competitive. Systems has to have no downtime, faster access and bigger data transfers and having servers that can predict any errors even before it happens without compromising other data uptime. Features like these make the IBM solutions for shared and secured access on a league of its own.

The beauty of it is that every two years they will announce new ones but this will still work. The same concept they are bringing to new ones because you don't need upgrades that much as it won't be cost efficient. This systems are designed for business critical enterprise so that even when you scale up, you won't get compromised and give you about 43% solutions cost. You can host multiple generations of technology in one server so maintenance is extremely easy. IBM's X6 is the fastest, mission critical application deployment in x86 based systems and no hardware vendor can match it. They are the first to do this.

X5 will retire this December. They also said that the Lenovo acquisition will not affect anything but the team that developed this and support for it will be transferred to Lenovo. We'll have to wait for the official announcement on this. With more performance and lower cost plus 4x more memory and higher system availability I couldn't think of any brand yet that could match X6. Will big enterprise use be of a reality soon? We'll have to find out if it applies to the Philippine market so we in turn can reap its benefits.

Note: One of the the local distributors is MSI, and they've assured all else will be okay once the transition starts in transferring x86 to Lenovo.That is reassuring.

Affordable Unlimited Postpaid Sim Plans For P599 a Month at ALLPHONES Stores

Do you have relatives you need to call a lot and have spent so much on prepaid cards? Well, there's a new service in town provided by Allphones Stores that carry SIM only plans for a monthly service fee of Php 599.00. In partnership with Globe, they've come up with awesome plans that would fit your budget even without the hassle of availing phone units from the network provider. Plans are also packaged simple, you don't need to think about what call, text or data plan to take because it's made perfectly affordable on these terms. Choose between the following:

1) Unlimited Calls and Texts to Globe/TM mobile numbers

2) Unlimited Calls to Globe/TM mobile and Landline Calls

3) Unlimited Texts to All Networks

4) Unlimited Mobile Internet.

The deal is, there's no lock in period plus there's no hassle applying for one because all you need is ONE valid ID. Their signup process is also done on a tablet app form so its paperless and secured by military grade protocols. By the end of the first half of 2014, there would be around 42 Allphones stores around the country. They also have mobile phones sold in store for those who wish to purchase. Just visit www.allphones.com.ph and use the site's store locator if you want to see one nearest you! :)

For more information about their stores:

All Phones

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http://www.allphones.com.ph

UNTV Cup Season 2

Back from the very successful games last year, UNTV now presents UNTV Cup Season 2 and this time it's even BIGGER than ever because there will be 10 teams joining this charity. They are the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP Cavaliers), Congress (Congress Legislators), Department of Justice (DOJ Hunters), Local Government Unit (LGU), Malacañang Palace, Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA Equalizers), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (Philhealth Advocates), Philippine Judiciary, Philippine National Police (PNP Responders) and Senate. Malacanang and Philippine Senate teams are new additions whilst LGU separated from congress building the official list.

Commissioners say that this would be a great venue to get together and help their chosen charities. Aside from that, change the public perception about these offices and get them informed about their individual projects so people can tell that they are doing something. Ka Daniel Razon admits that most of of them are victims of bias media reporting. He says "Sometimes the news isn't what we want to hear, we would like to request that each department should have a reportage team and UNTV will give proper space in newscast without any edits. Content will be all yours. Bring forth what you want the people to hear. It will be a good vehicle for your agencies to reach the proper audience." 

He also welcomed new teams like the Senate, Malacanang and LGU's (which separated from Congress) and was happy that it completes the 10 team lineup they were gunning for. They are planning to have three point shootouts plus an all star game later on and they have noted to get some players that have not been able to qualify in the games too.

Charities are going to be chosen by the respective teams and UNTV will not suggest so as to not have influence over it. They are monitoring these agencies silently and have ensured the money is going to them. They are also considering to put up Volleyball matches for women soon but that is still in the works. They would like to ask the agencies how UNTV can help, that alone is satisfying.  All games will be also played in historic Smart Araneta Coliseum and broadcasted live every Sunday at 2:30PM in UNTV. It will also be streamed online at http://www.untvweb.com.

For more information about their programs:

UNTV - Your Public Service Channel

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http://www.untvweb.com

Colored Right and Pampered at Belleza Y Estilo Salon

It's been a while since I visited my hair stylist extraordinaire Cher Nogara. She's with a new salon now called Belleza Y Estilo Salon in Holy Spirit Drive Don Antonio Heights in Quezon City. I've been wanting to have a platinum blonde shade on my hair and it's a process of bleaching that you have to go through before that.

 Yes, I went blonde a few weeks and had to retouch a bit before this visit. Had to have a few days of people staring at me, but as they say in France - you've got to go a mile before you get to your destination. It was fine because I'm used to it.

The bleaching process too is a little painful because it naturally is hard to get black off our natural hair. It's not for everybody, you had to have high pain tolerance- I must say that if you want to try this out. But if you're not that adventurous and would just like normal color and highlights for your hair, it's damn easy for these people who has done hair of celebrities. That's a good conversation starter, you should ask them who frequents their salon and you'll be surprised! Even WLS FM DJ's go there on a whim!

 

Plus the place is clean as a whisk. They're on soft opening now, but you won't have to worry about their services since they are pros. They are really a nice bunch of ladies in the salon and you won't be intimidated at all. Coffee's on them too. Oh before I forget, they use organic treatments from international brand Davines. You should check that out to know a little something about this brand, then experience it in the salon.

The moment I went back to see Cher, she already knew what I had in mind and started the last phase of doing my hair. So after a few hours, a rinse and blow drying...

Then here it is, wish granted! The perfect hair Platinum Blonde color that I was trying to achieve. I don't like boring hair as you can see. I don't even like anything like those you usually see magazines worn by stars. I like my "do" now and I'm wearing it gladly on events. :)

Aside from that, the new Belleza Y Estilo Salon has nail spa services so I wen't ahead and tried getting a pedicure plus foot scrub to take care of my tired feet (I've been walking miles in Ilocos and just got home). What's great is that I even got a foot massage along with that. The lady who also rinsed my hair after the color treatments even gave me a scalp massage. I almost slept on the chair hahaha! 

With what it's worth, get your face painted, get your hair did, your hands and feet pampered with some of the best ladies in the industry. Please visit them on the Second Floor, above Dog City at Holy Spirit Drive, Don Antonio Heights 2 in Quezon City. If you are coming from Quezon City Circle went right on Commonwealth Avenue, take the U-turn slot after Ever Gotesco and turn right on Holy Spirit Drive. If you see their sign or Dog City, that's it. You can't miss it on the right side.

I surely had my hair color fix, my nails done and boy I'm glad I did. You should do yourself a favor and get yours done now. You work for money, now is the time to spend it and take care of yourself okay? :)

For more information about their stores:

Belleza Y Estilo Salon

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Belleza Y Estilo Salon

Dreams Get Real with McJim Classic Leather!

Oh yes you read that right! Isn't that great news?! McJim Classic Leather is going to make your dreams come true by calling off college/university level male aspirants ages 15 to 22 years old whether solo, duo or group to win recording contracts, release their own single, music video and win big cash prizes.

Make sure that Group acts who aspire to join must have a maximum of five members; which can also include female members - but where majority of must be male. They also need to be of Filipino lineage and currently enrolled. 

A demo CD recording of their performance of an original song plus printed copies of the song’s lyrics is needed. They must also submit the complete set of required documents including:

1.) The completed application form

2.) A photocopy of their birth certificates

3.) Proof of current enrolment (i.e. valid ID or registration form); and one colored picture saved in a CD.

Remember: Failure to submit these documents and/or the CD recording and the printed lyrics is needed, otherwise it will signify an applicant's disqualification. So make sure you follow the instructions to a T.

To get to the finals, representatives from McJim Classic Leather, event organizers and a respected panel of judges from the music industry will evaluate entries and pick 50 contestants that will battle in five weekly elimination rounds. After the grueling eliminations, 12 of them will be judged via the criteria of Star quality, Quality of the original song, Voice quality and Audience impact. So make sure you keep this in mind when you submit an entry. The 12 will be also filmed performing their originals and will be posted on the McJim Classic Leather TV Get Real YouTube channel. The 3 most viewed videos on the channel by May 30, 2014 at exactly 12 noon and three more chosen by contest organizers and McJim Classic Leather representatives will the opportunity to professionally record their originals via Sonic State Studio (the arranger and recording studio behind Artists Gloc 9, Abra, Orange and Lemons, Kamikaze, Silent Sanctuary, and 1:43, to name a few) and these songs will be released as singles in radio stations nationwide. Isn't that a dream come true?

On June 15, 2014, all six finalists will compete for the title. Winner of this contest will take home P50, 000 in cash plus a recording and management contract and a grant to create the official music video of a single, whilst second place wins P25, 000 in cash and a trophy and third place will win P15, 000 in cash and a trophy. But don't fret because all of the 12 semi-finalists will receive P10,000 worth of McJim Classic Leather products so nobody goes home without something good :)

  If that isn't enough to convince you to join "Dreams Get Real" by McJim Classic Leather, I don't know what will. It's easy and can be the break that you and your friends might be waiting for to get that OPM Artist dream to come true. It's time, you just have to join! :)

For a complete rundown of contest mechanics and rules, please refer to the social media channels and website indicated below. Capisce? :)

For more information about their brand:

McJim Classic Leather

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http://www.mcjimleather.com