BYE BYE FRIENDSTER

There was a time when people specially in the Philippines were so addicted with Friendster and that every person maintains one account for them to get in touch with friends, families, former classmates and office mates.

Some even used Friendster to gain new friends, to find lovelife, to promote a site, to sell products and even to write notes and blogs. It wasn't until a better social networking site by the name of Facebook came out that Friendster's popularity dwindled. When I saw that FB was better, I decided to shut my Friendster account down. What I missed about it is the ever so long testimonials about one person and the fact that you coudl see who viewed you or when a person last logged in. All of those and more have been part of my life once.

But now, as the site draws its doors to a close, for sure Friendster would be missed. It was once a phenomenon but now would just be a part of history.

NESTLE CELEBRATES 100 YEARS WITH "PAG-IBIG"

Nestle has been one of the big names in the food and beverages industry and this year, they are celebrating their century year in the Philippines.

With products that are really successful and has been big parts of our daily living, they have somehow made our lives more wonderful. I myself love lots of their products. I am a big Milo drinker and surely it is one of the best chocolate drinks ever. Then there's Bear Brand, Nido, Nescafe, Nestea and Maggi to name some more. And how could anyone forget the sweet flavors of their ice creams.

On their 100 years, they share with us a touching TVC "Pag-Ibig". Truly Nestle will continue to be a part of our lives much like true love is.



Youtube link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ffQf0ztguzs

NATION MOURNS OVER FILIPINO EXECUTION IN CHINA

The whole nation mourns over the execution via lethal injection of 3 Filipinos in China. The three -- Ramon Credo, 42, Sally Villanueva, 32, and Elizabeth Batain, 38 -- were arrested separately in China in 2008 for smuggling heroin and sentenced to death.


The execution made by the Chinese government has drawn several reactions from different set of people citing the Philippine government as not doing much to save their lives. The Catholic church and Amnesty International has both been very vocal of their disappointment with the Aquino administration. But while saving the lives of these Filipinos seem to be task, ket us not forget that they did something bad as well and they did it on a foreign land. We can't expect the government to flex its muscles and get in the way of anothe nation's legislation and laws.

What we can do now is to remember that wherever we are, we should always put in mind to do only what's just and what's right. But as for these 3 souls, all we can do is pray for them and their families.

OLIVER TOLENTINO MAKES US PROUD

Another Filipino is making waves in the international circuit and this time it is in the fashion industry again.

Oliver Tolentino is the first Filipino ever to participate at the El Paseo Fashion Week at Palm Springs, California. He headlined an elite field of designers and opened up his show last March 20.  Proudly Filipino, Tolentino hails from Bataan and presented around 50 plus designs that showcased Philippine fabrics. PLaying with colors and fabrics is one trademark of Tolentino. His designs brings a great mix of the East and the sophistication of the West.

Oliver made big waves in the fashion industry last year when he won the Sustainable Eco Fashion Award at the 2010 Bahamas Fashion Week

EARTH HOUR TODAY

Once more, the entire WORLD including the Philippines will embrace darkness. Today, March 26, 2011, Filipinos all across the country and even the world will once again join the Earth Hour. It will be the 5th year for this event organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature and this will be the 2nd year I would be actively participating on this drive.

I'll join hundreds of people or maybe even thousands at the Mall of Asia Grounds and turn off the lights for an hour starting 8:30 PM. This campaign is driven towards awareness on the need to take action with the climate change all over the world. Last year, billions joined the Earth Hour in support with the movement. I am proud to say that for the past 2 years (2009 and 2010), Philippines has topped Earth Hour participation. In 2009, 10 million Filipinos in 647 cities and towns joined and 15 million in 1,076 cities and towns switched off and turned pitch black. (Yey, I'm part of the 15 million last year)

It has become one of the biggest event in the world and will continue so. I hope people would not see this only as a yearly thing. Instead we should look on how we can actively support this endeavor on our daily lives. We can save mother nature in our own ways. A small thing done from each one of us could be collectively doing great measures.

MY EIGHT PESO FARE

Starting today, February 2, 2011, a new fare hike has been implemented for Public Utility Jeepneys all accross the continent. The move was done in reaction to the continuous price hikes in gasoline. That means as of today, the minimum fare in Metro Manila and the Luzon areas would be 8 PHP, up by 1 peso from the previous fare. Senior citizens and students will continue to grab 1 peso discounts thus making their fare at 7 PHP.

For me, the timing is just right as if they don't approve this hike the drivers of the passenger jeepneys will be the one most affected. The continuous oil price hikes have affected them in a big way already. While some of the people might contest the hike, I think it is just right.

Now this solves the issue of drivers as of the moment but it's not a long time solution. Maybe we should really check back our laws with regards oil price regulation. Ever since twe have them deregulated, the prices have gone up without any control. I guess that's the one that's gonna solve the problem for a longer period of time. We can't afford yet another 1 peso hike. If that happens, then the regular pinoy would definitely react.

2010 IN REVIEW: NEWS THAT MADE THE HEADLINES

There were a lot of happenings in the past year for the Philippines. Some were bad, some were good and others really endearing. Here are the top 10 headliners for the year 2010.

1. Manila Hostage Crisis
- August 23, 2010. This is definitely the worst day for the Philippines in 2010. A hostage taking blown out of proportions and even broadcasted all throughout the world. It has shown how incompetent our police force is and that they can't handle a simple hostage crisis situation. It broke national TV records for being the most watched hours in 2010. It is painful to watch but I do hope we have learned our lessons. Travel advisories here and there were released to the Philippines putting our country on the hot seat anew.

2. Maria Venus Raj Bags 4th Runner-up
- While most were disappointed to see Venus only take the 4th runner-up, it was still a day of pride for the Philippines. Fresh from the hostage crisis days back, it was good news as the Philippines has once more been noticed in the beauty pageant arena. Never mind if there's the endless jokes on Venus' "Major, Major" answer. She's still a winner.

3. P-Noy Wins Presidential Race
- I personally did not vote for Noynoy but still this is a defining moment for the Philippines. For our country who is eagerly waiting to be taken off the hands of GMA, any new leader is very much welcome. And considering the political roots of Noy, Filipinos were expecting that he can somehow revive the ailing Philippine condition. So far, so good. I guess we, Filipinos need to just trust in the government now and do our small ways in helping. He can't do it all alone after all.

4. Charice Conquers Hollywood
- Filipina singer Charice makes her mark felt in the busy confines of Hollywood. With her debut album reaching No. 8 in the Billboard charts and the remix of "Pyramid" topping the dance charts, she was destined for greatness. Concerts here and there with David Foster and a host of other gigs made her a busy bee. And let's not forget, she landed a recurring role in the series "Glee" and did wowed a lot of viewers on her rendition of "Listen" at the season 2 premiere. Truly remarkable.

5. Hubert Webb Gets Acquited
- For whatever reasons, I still could not swallow this news. Why did it take more than a decade before the court makes a decision that Webb and company were not guilty of the Vizconde massacre. This is unbelievable for both parties. I am not taking sides but this shows how bad our justice system is. If it is indeed true that Hubert is innocent, imagine the long years he lost serving a sentence he should have not been given the first place. And let's not forget Lauro Vizconde. Truly painful!

6. La Salle Bar Exam Bombing
- I still can't fathom why some people would do stupid stuff that in the end can hurt a lot of people. The La Salle bombing incident surely has shown how some people don't think of their actions. I truly hope due justice is given to this case much so with the the people affected.

7. Failed Tourism Logo
- "Pilipinas Kay Ganda" have all the markings of a failure. The Tourism's new logo cost a lot and it did not even get pushed. I personally don't like the idea. It's like a title of a new "morning show" or a "game show" not a tourism catch phrase. There's nothing wrong with the current "Wow, Philippines" campaign. So why fix something that ain't broken?

8. The New Philippine Peso Bills
- I never thought this one would really come up nice. At first I was hesitant to see such changes but this one's definitely for the better. Our new bills have a strong Filipino being. With the national heroes in front and Pinoy sceneries and landmarks at the back. Plus I like its vivid colors matching those of Thailand and Malaysia's bills. I actually have a PHP 20 bill with me that I don't want to use right now!

9. Carlos Celdran, The Church and the RH Bill
- One other topic that just can't seem to die is the issue on the Reproductive Health Bill. One of the people who are very vocal of their support is David Celdran who later on got a feud with the church and was even filed with complaints. I have a take on this issue. Isn't there a separation of church and state? Why does the church keep on meddling with stuff like bills and laws?

10. Air Asia Comes To The Philippines
- Air Asia, a renowned budget class carrier has finally announced that they will be having an Air Asia Philippines. It's gonna be their third affiliate after Thailand and Indonesia. The arrival of the Malaysia-based carrier would surely be a welcome development for Philippine travellers who are always on the look for cheaper travel deals.

Credits: Yahoo News, PH Star, MB, PDI

METRO MANILA FILMFEST 2010: MY WATCHLIST

It is December season again and it means The Metro Manila Film Festival will again be in full swing this coming Christmas Day. I usually make it a point to watch all entries in support of our local film industry. This year's entries are packed with seasoned veterans of the filmfest and some fresh faces. The genre of the movies are again a mixed one to better cater to all markets. I guess for a long time only action films are amiss once more. But the 8 films really promise to make us smile this holiday season. Here's my take on all 8 and which ones I'll watch first. Don't worry I'll watch them all. I just have some preferences.

1. RPG Metanoia
From the first time I heard of this film, I was really excited since this is gonna be a first in the Philippine cinema - a 3D movie. I have seen the trailer and some of stills from the movie and I think this is really something to look forward to. The artwork seems sharp and some of the designs were off the hook. I'm sure a lot of kids would be pushing their parents to watch this one.

2. Ang Tanging Ina Mo Rin (Last Na 'To)
This is the third and as the title suggests, the last. And I would not want to miss it. I have watched the first 2 movies of the Tanging Ina series and all I could say is I really had fun with those. What makes me excited on this film is the fact that this would be a reunion of all cast except Heart. It is nice to see how each one has grown. And who could not resist the funny antics of the 2 ladies on board - Ai Ai De Las Alas and Eugene Domingo. Surely a whacked out affair.

3. Rosario
This I think would not really rake much in the box office but I believe they will lord on the awards ceremony. Not having much of the commercial appeal the rest of the entries have, what I like on this one is the big story base. Watching from the trailer, this is one good movie and Jennylyn Mercado really did extremely well. Also, from all posters of entries, I find Rosario as the most intriguing. And Albert Martinez as a director is really something.

4. Dalaw
Horror Queen of the new generation Kris Aquino is back again to make us scream. And one of my friend is working behind the scenes for this film as well. I checked on the trailer and unlike most Filipino films which gives out scares, I think the attack of Dalaw is to give us chills. And with Dondon Santos on the helm, I am expecting some breath of fresh air.

5. Si Agimat at Si Enteng Kabisote
MMFF box office behemoths Vic Sotto and Bong Revilla in one film - WOW! This early, I believe they will lord over the box office once again. It is nice to see how the 2 worlds of Agimat and Enteng will be incorporated into one. As usual, effects and mass appeal is what will make this film stand out. And while Kristine Hermosa is out as Faye, Sam Pinto steps in.

6. Shake Rattle & Roll XII
It seems like that when MMFF hits, a Shake Rattle and Roll film is almost automatic to be one of the entries. SRR has become a part of Filipino pop culture and with its 12th edition this December I think they're not gonna stop from there. I am not getting tired of them, after all, each year, they tend to give us something to be surprised with.

7. Father Jejemon
King of Comedy Dolphy stars on this film showing that he really loves his craft and all he wants is to entertain all of us. It's interesting to see how the dynamics of the Jejemon language would be incorporated into the film specially as Pidol is on the other side of the generation.

8. Super Inday and the Golden Bibe
GMA 7 main draw Marian Rivera stars on this remake of a 1988 classic previously played by Maricel Soriano. I actually enjoy Marian more on comedies and this might just be the proof that people are waiting for since from day 1 she has been compared to the Diamond Star. A stellar support cast with Jake Cuenca, Pokwang, Vice Ganda and Jillian is also something to look forward to.

Photo Credits: Facebook Movie Pages, ABS-CBN, MMFF, GMA

PHILIPPINES NUMBER 1 IN BPO

To start the week on a good note, I would like to comment on the current news about the growing BPO Industry in the Philippines. And guess what? After frequently playing second fiddle to ertswhile top BPO country India, the Philippines has now taken the lead in this growing industry.

For perspective, BPO stands for Business Process Outsourcing and is generally focused in providing business support functions to companies. These functions include the largely successful call center block that is comprised of jobs like customer care specialist (voice and non-voice), sales specialist and many others. Part of the BPO industry is also the oursourcing of functions like Finance and Accounting, Payroll, Human Resources and IT. For Philippines to be at the top of this industry all over the globe is a big achievement. This means that we are trusted by a lot of companies/businesses in terms of technical skills and expertise with business. To us, Filipinos, this is something we should be proud of.

PILIPINAS KAY GANDA GETS PANNED AND GETS PULLED OFF

Department of Tourism is on the hot seat once more and they just could not handle it. Days after introducing their new internet ad/campaign for Philippine tourism, DOT has recalled and pulled the plug on the ad. Thanks God! That was like something not really thought of.

The ad has the new slogan "Pilipinas Kay Ganda" which is for me simply wrong. It's like a mutated version of a mornign show and a noon-time variety program. (Pilipinas Win na Win and Umagang Kay Ganda). I don't know what they were thinking but thankfully they pulled that out one. Thanks to a lot of people that vocally disliked the ad. I think it lacked identity. It is a suicide attempt to salvage the ailing tourism in the Philippines. There's nothing wrong with the current Wow Philippines slogan but what is wrong is how we campaign. We don't let people see the real beauty of the Philippines. Well since you're not gonna see the "Pilipinas Kay Ganda" slogan anymore, just for perspective here it is and you be the judge.

Photo credits: Yahoo News Philippines

I Support Manny Pacquiao, the World’s #1 Boxer, Just Like Head and Shoulders, the World’s #1 Shampoo!

Manny Pacquiao - world class boxer! Head & Shoulders - world class brand! Combine this two together and you have a knockout!

This coming November 14, 2010, Filipinos will once more be glued to their TV screens and life seems to stop once more as their perennial champion Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao fights for pride and glory of our country against a worthy opponent by the name of Antonio Margarito. I support Manny 100% as I know his abilities as a boxer and his dedication to his sport. That can be easily seen with his 9 world titles from 7 different weight divisions. Aside from that, he fights with heart and not just for the prizes or fame. He's one true champion and continues to be one of the idols of the Filipino people.

Go Manny and make Philippines proud once more! Just like Head and Shoulders, I am supporting Manny all the way. Go for the win!!! Best of luck to our "Pambansang Kamao"!!!

Photo and video courtesy of Nuffnang

TELETECH MAKES PEOPLE KNOW

Well, there's a lot of call centers in the metro already and one would just have to walk the streets of Ayala to see all the big names there and try their luck on a job or two. But what makes it really interesting is this one time when I was walking along Ayala near RCBC Building.

Teletech is advertising that they are expanding and hiring new people but not with the usual flyers and notes. They have guys wear a semi-billboard type on their backs that actually lights up during the night. Good way to catch attention. Here's one pic I got of one guy who has this on his back. Guys, it really is difficult to earn a living nowadays. Kudos to Teletech for doing this nice promotion!

IN MEMORIAM

Today, we remember...

All Saint's Day has always been part of a Filipino's tradition. In this day we remember our loved ones who have passed away. Each candle that we light symbolizes life in its brightness. That life are ones which our loved ones previously had and shared with us. Each flower we give makes us remember how wonderful it was being with them. And each prayer we utter makes us thank GOD for the gift of life and for making sure those dear to heart are with HIM.

For me, this day is not a day of mourning but a day of celebration. For after all the people who has left us are now enjoying the glory of HIS Kingdom. May we continue to remember how lovely life is and how glorifying death is. Happy All Saint's Day!

RIGHT OF SUFFRAGE: BARANGAY AND SK ELECTIONS 2010

Today, October 25, 2010, Filipinos once more exercise one of the rights they have - voting.

As today marks the Barangay and SK elections, please be reminded to choose the right people. The barangay is the smallest yet the most vital part of the community. People who you will put in the position will represent your small community to the rest of the metro.

But as we try to exercise our rights to vote, do we still see the value of the Barangay elections? Are elected officials doing anything after the polls? For some reasons people are somehow mixed on voting today. Some of which just see this day as an extra vacation and a time to rest. There might be no big things happening in your barangays but it is still a good choice to cast your votes. For the right choices of people could mean a good representation of the people in your baranagay. All big things start from the smallest stuff.

CHOLO AYUYAO: A DAY WITH BEAUTIFUL DOLLS

Selma in red

I have been reading a lot of stuff and mingling with a bunch of people who have different interests. Some in fashion, the others in acting and modeling, some in the arts, a few from the music industry and a whole lot of things in between. In our daily lives we search and look for people, things, places and anything that could pique our interests and have a second look. And there are really some stuff that just makes you wonder and gaze in awe. This is the effect of these creations by one extraordinary individual Cholo Ayuyao.

Fraglle Collection

Most people and friends know Cholo as an amazing fashion accesory designer and yes he is indeed one. But what struck me most is when I first viewed his collection of dolls - carefully crafted and keenly brought to a different life. His designs and creations were stunning. The first dolls I've seen were his Dochine collection which saw his dolls transform into superheroines. All the details and design was simply exquisite. I personally loved Sirikit Verdadero the most. (see pic)



Plime Collection

 

Sirikit of Dochine Collection

Philippines in National Custome

But then he came out with more and more interesting designs - from National costumes, super villains and even guy dolls. And every single piece in his collection truly reflects how talented and wonderful he is as a person. His other outstanding collections include the Plime collection where in he focused with the colors plum and lime green as costumes for his dolls and his fresh Fraglle collection.

Cholo's dolls are an epitome of beauty and wonder. Hope to see them all in actual and I'm sure I'm gonna enjoy them. This is for Cholo and his dolls so the whole world could see such a brilliant mind embodied in such a nice and wonderful person. Enjoy the pics.

PHOTO CREDITS: Cholo Ayuyao's Facebook Pages
* All dolls are personal creations of Cholo Ayuyao.

P&G PHILIPPINES 75 YEARS STATION ID

Consumer products leader P&G Philippines has joined media giant ABS-CBN in celebration of its 75th birthday in the country. P&G is a global company that has found great success here in the Philippines with products such as Pantene, Olay, Rejoice, Safeguard, Tide and a whole lot more.

75 years have already passed since its initial inception in the country and it still is continuing its strength. As part of its celebration, it has come up with a Station ID in cooperation with ABS-CBN. The video is a heartfelt one as majority of which shows values with family and friends. It has showed that through it all, P&G is there as part of everyone's life. The station ID features some of the biggest P&G endorsers and Kapamilya stars - Kris Aquino, Kim Chiu, Angel Aquino, Boy Abunda and Angel Locsin to name a few. The theme for the station ID is sang by world renowned performer Lea Salonga.

As they say it: P&G, Touching Lives.



NEW YOUTUBE LINK (CLEAR VERSION): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MiYqJOeq85I

NOBODY DOES IT LIKE THESE GUYS

Youtube has always been a media for songs, music videos and random snippets of anything under the sun. Most of the time, it is a channel for which people can freely express themselves. Usually we see videos for pure fun and enjoyment.

It was October 2 when this video became a constant subject of sharing in Facebook and as the usual person who looks on almost all videos in the news feed, I watched this and I laughed really hard. =) These guys were all out in their dancing (oftentimes looking ridiculous) to the tune of Wonder Girls' "Nobody". I might say they have the moves but I guess what made it funny and appealing at the same tims is the fact that these guys do have looks. They can pass for models or possibly budding showbiz celebs. I don't know any of them but while we wait if they will enter into the foray of showbiz, let's just have fun watching them.

The guys enjoyed what they did. Perhaps showing you don't need to be dressed just to sing and dance in youtube. LOL =)



YOUTUBE LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iaosk0KbTdM

CEBU PACIFIC DANCES AGAIN - MALE VERSION

Well, if you are one of the few people who have watched the now super famous Cebu Pacific flight female attendants dancing ala Gaga and Katy Perry, brace yourselves for more.

This time, its the male attendants time to shine. October 8, 2010 morning flight to Davao saw the male attendants turn to dance and entertain the people in the flight. It was fun and as usual the attendants know a thing or two about dancing. I don't know the song playing but could use some new songs to really grab most  people's attention. It's not that famous or maybe I just don't know the song plus the beat is not that good.

Now what else can the other people complain. Will the complains on Cebu Pac being sexist be silenced now that they also have their guys dance. Kudos Cebu Pacific for the new fun you've injected in your flights.


YOUTUBE LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qyJJncQfyIk

10.10.10 RUN FOR PASIG

This Sunday, October 10, 2010 brace yourselves for what is touted to be the biggest run for a cause not just in the Philippines but also in the world. Making a big buzz and advertised as "10.10.10 Run for Pasig" this will be fun run for a cause. Aside from its obvious reason of trying to clean out and restore Pasig River, the organizers of this run, KBPIP also plan to eclipse the record set for a run in the world and they are targetting a total of 120,000 runners. That would mean a new record in Guiness if that is the case. That's worldwide attention plus a noble cause as well.


Several celebrities are expected to come and join the run. Names that are officially listed in the run include boxer Manny Pacquiao, hunk actor Piolo Pascual and singer Karylle. Members of NGOs, public officials and students are also expected to join in.


There are 3 distances one can choose from.
3KM – SM Mall of Asia – Php 250.00
5KM – Fort Bonifacio – Php 250.00
10KM – Luneta – Php 250.00

As further promotion of this event, MRT will be giving away free train rides to all registered runners. One just needs to wear his number bib to be able to get the free ride.

So come and join the run and help in this big cause. For we're all hoping that one day, Pasig River will be restored to its old beauty.

For more info, visit the website: http://www.101010runforpasigriver.com./

WINNIE MONSOD: BE PART OF THE SOLUTION NOT THE PROBLEM

I found this piece in youtube and just could not resist posting it in my blog. Winnie Monsod has always been one of my admired teachers - one of the few women I could say is truthful and honest. This is a video of her saying her last lecture in UP Diliman.

It is a strong piece of reminder to all of the Filipinos specifically the youth even if she solely pertains to students in UP. Her words are universal that one could easily relate. She has encouraged us to be part of the solution rather than be part of the problem. She focused on the integral point on UP's mission/vision: "Honor and Excellence". She's right in reiterating that those words are designed in a way that Honor should always come above excellence. True enough, once people have these, competence and integrity is just automatic.

I hope a lot of people will watch and listen to this video. I also like how she stressed that students should always remember these phrases: "I am only one but I am one." It emphasizes the importance of one soul. An endeavor won't be succesful unless there are people in it. Each one of those individuals are pivotal to the success of whatever is on hand. This is what is needed to have a more successful Philippines. We should start within ourselves and from there we'll see betterment.