Alaxan FR Celebrates Pinoy Pain and Pride

In the timely event of Manny Pacquaio's recent victory of his last match, Alaxan FR sees it fit to celebrate this victory with Pinoy Pain and Pride. Last November 26, 2010 at the Seaside Boulevard near SM Mall of Asia, Alaxan FR initiated the celebration with the unveiling of the statue that best describes the pain and pride of each Pinoy. 

The statue was made by award winning Filipino artist, Fred Baldemor, who also in the previous months also shares his pain and pride for his latest masterpiece. The statue also portrays simple workers who struggle to survive and made a difference in their own way, embodied in a nurse, a construction worker, a farmer, and a teacher. At the center of the statue is the embodiment of the one who became an inspiration to all Filipinos: Manny Pacquiao.

The event was hosted by Susan Entrata with performances by Bugoy Drilon, Nyoy Volante, Jed Mandela, Cookie Chua, XB GenSan, PUP Maharlika Dance Troupe, and the rock band, Pedicab. Paeng Nepomuceno also provided a testimony of perseverance. Also recognized was Reynaldo Lachica, an environmental and product chemist for the Search of The Toughest Job, a campaign by Alaxan FR and Department of Labor and Employment. After the unveiling, the celbration continues with a performances of Bamboo.

I Know You Want These Seattle's Best Coffee Holiday Giveaway

For a limited time, Seattle's Best Coffee launches Give and Receive Promo. For every purchase of the SBC Holiday Drink,Cookies and Mint with Oreo bits(Mocha or Javakula) or a regular drink of any sizes, you will given a sticker to complete for your Give and Receive Card at any SBC branch. Once completed, you will be given a limited edition Holiday Package. A tumbler designed Ivan Acuña and a tote bag by Jowee and Mon of Team Manila. You are not only buying just coffee but you are also contributing to help World Vision by just completing the G & R Card. Promo is only until January 15, 2011.

Marc Nelson and Rovilson Fernandez are WWF Philippines first National Ambassadors

From extreme sports to hosting adventure shows to backpacking trips across the globe, television personalities Marc Nelson and Rovilson Fernandez share the same passion for excitement, adventure, and the great outdoors. It is only natural then that the ‘best buds’ channel their passion and enthusiasm for nature to the bigger, more important role they now play as the World Wide Fund for Nature – Philippines first National Ambassadors.

“Marc and Rovilson have experienced firsthand the biodiversity of our reefs and have seen many that are under threat.  They know just how crucial it is for organizations like us to intervene to preserve and protect our natural reefs and our marine life, as well as to support the communities that depend on them for their livelihood.  We could not have chosen more passionate National Ambassadors for WWF Philippines and are both thrilled and excited to work alongside them in empowering Filipinos to take action,” said WWF CEO and President Lory Tan.  

First on the agenda for the new WWF National Ambassadors is to create greater awareness for the organization’s recently-launched I Click, I Save campaign, encouraging young urban professionals with access to the internet to donate to WWF marine conservation initiatives with just a click of the mouse through www.wwf.org.ph/donate.  Donations will fund WWF Philippines’ initiatives in marine protected areas in Palawan; Apo Reef, Mindoro; Donsol, Sorsogon; and Tubbataha Reef in the Sulu Sea.

Marc and Rovilson will also be involved in WWF environmental education drives in schools, helping raise awareness for the urgency with which carbon footprints must be reduced to avert the negative effects of climate change.

“This is a brand new day for us as it is certainly a privilege for Rovilson and I to be part of the solution—to use our talent to encourage fellow Filipinos to protect our reefs and the diversity of our marine life,” says Marc. “We’ve seen the beauty of our reefs as part of the Coral Triangle firsthand, and we’ve also witnessed their continued degradation.”

“We’re impressed at how WWF intervention can breathe new life into protected areas through community education and involvement and are honored to contribute to these efforts in every way we can,” adds Rovilson. “It is important for many of us to understand that each of us must contribute, even in little ways, to preserving our environment for future generations.  We’re not just talking about preserving ecosystems here, but giving life to communities that depend on them for their livelihood.” 

With their mission in environment conservation cut out for them, the tandem is now ready to take off on their next ‘Amazing Race’ to live out their marine conservation advocacy.

To learn more about WWF-Philippines’ programs, visit www.wwf.org.ph

Discover KB Gold Premium Glutathione Soap Power of Five Ingredients

A radiant and clear skin surely makes a person stand out; it should be like a clean canvass ready for anything that will enhance its beauty and natural glow. However, certain skin care steps must be followed to maintain its suppleness and healthy condition that shines through.

Skin ageing is surely something inevitable. Age spots, discoloration, wrinkles, and dryness become a major problem especially if the person is constantly dealt with an unhealthy lifestyle. While it is also important to feed the body with nutritious food and supplements, it is also vital to understand the right products that will keep the skin young and good looking.

That is why Yumei Mise Inc., the makers of the first and only glutathione in the Philippines formulated with NAC is introducing another product innovation that will enhance the skin’s freshness and youthful condition.

Introducing KB Gold Premium Glutathione soap which composes of powerful combination of five ingredients: alpa arbutin, kojic acid, soybean extract, hyaluronic acid (HA), and human placenta extract. To better appreciate its unique characteristics, take time to understand its individual features and benefits. As its name connotes, KB Gold Premium soap emphasizes exceptional quality and standard based on prudent research and years of study--   formulated for fast, safe, and effective way to a whiter, smoother, and over all skin rejuvenation.

Human placenta, the soap’s main ingredient has been recognized for its amazing anti-aging properties acknowledged by the Japanese Ministry of Health and Labor as safe, effective, and with no side effects.  The abundant nutrients found in the multi faceted human placenta help in improving skin texture, color, while diminishes wrinkles and pore size of the skin.

One potent component of this product is the soybean extract, a vitamin E rich antioxidant that delays ageing and promotes smoother skin. The unique features of soya stimulate collagen production which makes the skin supple and elastic.  

Another natural substance incorporated in its exceptional ingredients is the hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance found in the body of a newly-born and occurs naturally in the deep layers of the skin. Unfortunately, starting 18-20 years of age, human body produce less and less HA, until it becomes apparent by the age of 40 where skin starts to lose elasticity and wrinkles appear. The vital roles of this acid include powerful hydrating properties and support the formation and maintenance of collagen of the skin.

To further enhance the dynamic combination of KB Gold Premium soap, it is also infused with 99% alpha arbutin and kojic acid (in comparison to a mere less than 10% in other brands). The most natural and safest way in skin bleaching, both substances are found to have radiance-enhancing abilities-- making the skin lighter and more even out, minus the brown spots. Expert dermatologists also backed the unmatched formulation of KB Premium Glutathione soap with its ph balance, long-lasting, and revitalizing floral fragrance which keeps the skin refreshed. The product is also marked by its European standards of soap quality, good for both face and body.

With KB Premium Glutathione soap’s first-class power of five ingredients, it is considered economical in price for Php475 each. See for yourself and purchase at Asian Sky Mall located at Pearl Drive, Ortigas Center Pasig. The product is also soon to be available in Watsons, Mercury Drug, and other leading drugstores nationwide.

For inquiries and faster transactions, contact hotline no. 09178005836.

                                                                             

-END-

KB Gold Premium Glutathione Soap is manufactured and distributed by Yumei Mise Inc., located at Asian Sky Mall located at Pearl Plaza, Pearl Drive Ortigas Center Pasig City.  For inquiries and faster transactions, contact 4773850 or 09178005836.

FUN FACTS ON THE MAKING OF “TRON: LEGACY”

In line with the upcoming release of “TRON: Legacy” – a 3D high-tech action-adventure set in a digital world that’s unlike anything ever captured on the big screen – Disney dishes out the interesting fun facts  behind the making of this eagerly anticipated film.

In “TRON: Legacy,” Sam Flynn (Garrett Hedlund), the tech-savvy 27-year-old son of Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges), looks into his father’s disappearance and finds himself pulled into the digital world of Tron where his father has been living for 25 years. Along with Kevin’s loyal confidant Qora (Olivia Wilde), father and son embark on a life-and-death journey of escape across a visually-stunning cyber universe that has become far more advanced and exceedingly dangerous.

·          The 3D technology in “TRON: Legacy” was developed post-“Avatar” and represents the most advanced in the world today.

·          It's the first 3D movie to integrate a fully digital head and body upon an existing actor to create a younger version of Jeff Bridges’ character, Kevin Flynn, using advanced Emotion Capture technology developed by Digital Domain.

·          Jeff Bridges is the first actor in cinematic history to play opposite a younger version of himself.

·          Grammy®-award winning, French electronic duo Daft Punk scored “TRON: Legacy,” composing 24 tracks in all. They are also seen in a brief cameo.

·          The light suits were created using electroluminescent lamps made from a flexible polymer film.

·          Lightcycle design was inspired by the original sketches of Syd Mead, who designed them for “TRON” back in 1982. Creating Lightcycles that would form visual units with their riders and still give them room to move was a challenge for “TRON: Legacy” vehicle designer Daniel Simon and the rest of the vehicle design team.

·          Both Garrett Hedlund and Olivia Wilde received training in Parkour and martial arts for their roles.

·          Because donning the light suits was a time-consuming and labor-intensive process, special inversion boards were provided to allow actors to get off of their feet and recline without endangering the costume.

·          The light discs created for the film consist of 134 LED lights, are radio-controlled, and attached to the suits with magnets. In addition, they house the batteries that power the suit lights. They are heavy, so care had to be taken when throwing them on set.

·          Several of the vehicles were practically fully built for certain scenes, as opposed to computer-generated, in keeping with director Joseph Kosinski’s vision of blurring the line between CGI and reality.

·          Flynn’s Arcade holds a treasure trove of icons for “TRON” fans: the Master Control Program desk caddy from the original film; the tabletop computer interface and a condensed version of the Shiva laser, which takes Sam into the Grid; a map of the Grid embedded in the code of the background image; and Sam’s drawings from childhood on the wall.

Distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures Philippines, “TRON: Legacy” will open soon across the country in IMAX 3D, Digital 3D and regular formats.

Book Review: Undaunted

Front cover

Undaunted: Courageously resolute especially in the face of danger and difficulty. Not discourage. That is according to Merriam-Webster's dictionary. This is also how to describe the Lopez legacy in the new book written about them, Undaunted: The Lopez Legacy 1800- 2010 which was launched last November 22.

Inside cover

The book is the latest addition updating the history of the Lopez clan written by Raul Rodrigo. Mr. Rodriguez is already established himself as the Lopezes' entrusted chronicler to tell its story. The book itself is classified as a biography and non-fiction. It covers the period circa 1800-2010. The book is in hardcover format. The flap jacket is also the same design as the main cover the book title is printed in gold foil lettering.

Significant events in the Lopez clan and the nation

The inner cover displays individual picture of the pioneers in the Lopez clan and it was arrange in a yearbook type. It has a photo time line graph that shows significant events in our nation's history significant event in Lopez history during that period of time. It also shows the updated genealogy of the Lopez clan.

The Lopezes' sugar plantation

The book presents the history in photographs. It is the photos that tell the story and it dominates the whole book. What makes this book different from historical biographies is that pictures are harder to gather than writing about it. Imagine the time and effort finding these photos and compiling all of it to arrange for this book. You have to find the right photo for each chapter especially if it's an old photograph ages over a hundred years. It was well researched and carefully arranged. The book was done visually like a photo-almanac comparing it to the likes of Life: Year-In Review. The book's visual aspect also makes the reader stimulated so the reader can also engage in the story.

Zero Hour

The book also shows how the Lopezes help shape our country in their companies, mass media, and politics. You may probably ask what it has to do with me. The Lopezes have given much to the people in regards to entertainment, mass media, power supply, and leisure among other things. Their experience is something that we can learn from. Especially if you share their Lopez credo: Pioneering, nationalism, team work, strong work ethic, integrity, social justice, concern for employee welfare, business excellence. For my recommendation, the book is worth buying especially if you wish to know more about the people behind the industry that brought you ABS-CBN and learn how from their example how they made it big in the industry. The book was also published under ABS-CBN. Undaunted will soon be available commercially.

War With Malacañang

GFI Software Expands Operations in Philippines

Last, November 17, I was invited to the dedication of GFI here in the Phils. It's a good opportunity to bear witness to it because GFI is a leading provider of security and infrastructure solutions and has clients in different sectors including the U.S. Department of Defense and a pioneer in anti-malware protection. GFI's  opening ventures here in the Philippines not only to provide marketing here but also opening doors to qualified people. Here's their press release.

New center to focus on advanced research and
development for security software products

Manila, Philippines – November 17, 2010 – GFI Software, a leading global security and infrastructure software provider for consumer and enterprise customers, today announced the opening of its new Advanced Technology Development Center. The facility is located at One World Square Building, 10 Upper McKinley Road, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, Philippines.  The grand opening event was highlighted by an inaugural ceremony with Ivan John Enrile Uy, Chairman of the Commission on Information and Communications Technology (CICT), and several high-ranking GFI Software executives. 

Formerly known locally as Sunbelt Software Philippines, Inc., GFI Software Philippines Inc.’s new 6,000 square foot facility will operate as center for research and development of VIPRE® antivirus technology, and also add local customer support capabilities. Filipino security researchers have made valuable contributions to VIPRE’s growing success as one of the most highly rated antivirus engines in the market. GFI plans to increase its employee base in the region by more than 50 percent over the next year.  

“This is our first and only development office in Asia and we have been enormously pleased with its success.  The Filipino work ethic and education level are impressive and have been the key reason for our continued expansion,” said Alex Eckelberry, President of Security Division of GFI Software, Inc.

“The Philippines is a growing hotbed of technology development, and GFI Software recognizes the opportunity to leverage its local talent to stay at the forefront of antivirus innovation,” said Dan Lorch, General Manager, GFI Software Philippines, Inc. “In order to meet our goals, we will need to fill positions in the coming months both in security research and customer support operations. Manila and the surrounding regions provide an excellent source of qualified professionals to strengthen our technology and support both locally and globally.” 

    

In addition to Chairman Uy, several GFI Software executives joined the grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony, namely: Alex Eckelberry, President of the Security division, Eric Sites, Chief Technology Officer, Security Division; Mark Patton, Vice President of Research and Development and Dodi Glenn, Malware Response Manager.

 

About GFI

GFI Software provides web and mail security, archiving and fax, networking and security software and hosted IT solutions for small to medium-sized enterprises (SME) via an extensive global partner community. GFI products are available either as on-premise solutions, in the cloud or as a hybrid of both delivery models. With award-winning technology, a competitive pricing strategy, and a strong focus on the unique requirements of SMEs, GFI satisfies the IT needs of organizations on a global scale. The company has offices in the United States, UK, Austria, Australia, Malta, Hong Kong, Philippines and Romania, which together support hundreds of thousands of installations worldwide. GFI is a channel-focused company with thousands of partners throughout the world and is also a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner.

Ayala Triangle's New Attraction:Lights and Sound Display

Each night from 6PM to 8PM, Ayala Triangle presents the lights and sound display every 30 minutes at the park area. The lights were set up in the trees while they synchronize with instrumental Christmas songs. I'll be bringing my niece there one of these nights.

NEWCOMER WILL POULTER IN “CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER”

“Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader” finds its latest treasure of an actor in newcomer Will Poulter who plays Eustace Scrubb, the bratty cousin of the Pevensies.   Returning in their biggest 3D adventure are Georgie Henley and Skandar Keynes who play Lucy and Edmund Pevensie respectively.   In the film, the Pevensie children are staying at Eustace’s home when all three are dragged into Narnia via a painting on the wall depicting the ocean, which suddenly becomes terrifyingly real as gallons of water flood into the room. They surface in the ocean in Narnia, near Caspian’s ship, The Dawn Treader, and embark on an epic quest to find the seven Lost Lords.

Photo courtesy of 20th Century Fox

Bright, articulate, enthusiastic, utterly charming and delightfully modest teenager, Will clearly relishes the big opportunity that working with director Michael Apted and co-stars Ben Barnes, Georgie Henley and Skandar Keynes (who have all appeared in the Narnia films before), represents. For him, this particular adventure was a dream come true especially on the shores of Australia where the film was also shot.    “I loved being in Australia,” he says. “I loved the people I worked with and we got to work in a giant water tank – that was so cool. We also learned to scuba dive and I learned sword fighting too, which was fantastic. Finally, I had to work with a blue screen, which was weird but fun. After work I would go surfing and I loved doing that. Actually, I can’t begin to describe how much fun it was. I had the best time.”

Born and raised in London and in many ways, is like any other English boy of the same age. He also loves to act and made a very promising start in the professional world of filmmaking at just 14 years old when he starred in the charming British comedy Son Of Rambow.  He credits his drama teacher at school, The Harrodian, for inspiring him to take the plunge and go for the role of Lee Carter.   “My teacher, Laura Lawson, put me up for my first audition for Son of Rambow,” he says. “I kind of owe everything to her. She’s been amazing to me.”

When Michael Apted (“Amazing Grace,” “The World Is Not Enough,” “Nell”) first auditioned young Will for the part of Eustace Scrubb, the vastly experienced director was obviously impressed.  Typically, though, Will himself was convinced that he didn’t stand a chance. “I was absolutely terrified.”

“Eustace is really a horrible, horrible guy,” Will explains of his role. “He’s obnoxious, at times arrogant, and quite defensive of himself, and he’s very much against the whole idea of Narnia and talking creatures,” he says.

 “I felt really guilty that I had to subject that many people to a brat like that for six months,” he laughs. “But it was also really good fun and I absolutely loved playing the part—it was tough but I absolutely loved it.”

“Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader” opens December 9 in theatres nationwide from 20^th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.

Make Miracles Happen with Miracle Machine

Miracle Whip is all about making good things happen. But this time, Kraft has decided to whip up miracles outside of the kitchen with Miracle Machine.

Miracle Machine is a social network application and its objective is quite simple: to get people and their friends and their friends’ friends working together to make miracles happen for the less unfortunate. Think Facebook but instead of status updates and comments, you get opportunities to help.

Last year, when Ondoy mercilessly devastated the country, most of us turned to Facebook as a channel for mobilizing efforts to help thousands of people during those trying times. Miracle Machine aims to do the same, to become a centralized online hub where people from all walks of life can come together and combine their resources to extend a helping hand to those who need it the most.

For the first phase, the Miracle Machine wishes to whip up 12 miracles in 12 days through Facebook in time for the Christmas season.

Kythe Foundation hopes to help Angelalyn Magalano, a 13-year-old angel who suffers from Nephoric Syndrome and psoriasis by making her wish come true of meeting a pilot and talk about flying.

Jamboree Mountaineers hopes to make the indigenous tribes’ Christmas in Wawa, Montalban merrier by trekking there and delivering food for Noche Buena.

Childhope Asia hopes to keep street children warm this Yuletide Season by providing them with new underwear and clothes.

Kaeskwela hopes to fill the empty libraries of public schools in far-flung areas in the country with educational books.

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) hopes to find abandoned dogs and cats new families to take them in by making them adoption-ready through grooming.

-more-

Page 2

Sagip Buhay and Philippine General Hospital hopes to provide medical assistance for those who don’t have the means and access to proper healthcare with new blood pressure devices and Thermoscan thermometers.

Firefly Brigade and Tiklop Society hopes to collect 10 bikes and bike safety gear for people in urban communities to help them get from one place to another faster and safer so they can be more productive in their work.

Tahanang Walang Hagdan hopes to give back to the 326 volunteers who have selflessly devoted their time to the organization by giving them gifts this Christmas.

Resources for the Blind hopes to record an audio storybook for blind children to bring them to the world of wonder and imagination.

Museo Pambata hopes to make 2, 000 children happy this Season of Giving by gifting them with pre-loved storybooks and toys.

St. Martin de Porres Charity Home hopes to spread holiday cheer with a potluck party for the underprivileged kids under its care.

Finally, for the 12^th miracle, a fully functional miracle conduit will be made available on the 12th day of December to organizations who need it and people with something to give.

To set the wheels of Miracle Machine in motion, visit http://www.facebook.com/WhippingUpMiracles, click on the Miracle Machine tab. Maybe there’s one miracle or two you’d be able to help us make happen and you might also consider spreading the word to your friends. There might be someone in your friend list or your friends’ friend list who has the means to answer a call for help or support a specific cause.

If we get everyone to pitch in, we can show that as more people become part of Miracle Machine, we get to make more and more amazing things happen!

My Amnesia Girl Opens Today In Cinemas

Get ready for the romantic comedy Star Cinema is offering for the Christmas season. For the first time, John Lloyd Cruz pairs up with Toni Gonzaga in My Amnesia Girl.Joining John Lloyd and Toni are Beatriz Saw, Joross Gamboa, Carlos Agassi, Ketchup Eusebio and more. The film was directed by Cathy Garcia-Molina. Garcia-Molina stressed that it is not a Filipinized 50 First Dates though it may appear similar.

Undaunted Book Launch

Undaunted: Courageously resolute especially in the face of danger and difficulty.Not discourage. That is according to Merriam-Webster's dictionary. This is also how to describe the Lopez legacy in the new book written about them, Undaunted: The Lopez Legacy 1800- 2010.

Mr. Oscar Lopez

The book was written by Raul Rodrigo, a chronicler of the Lopez clan, as a follow up on his previous book, Phoenix. The book was launched at Rockwell Tent last November 22, 2010. Despite the sudden rain and heavy traffic, people still able to make it to the event. 

Undaunted the musicale

The event started after having our lovely dinner. With words of welcome by Chairman Emeritus of Lopez Group of Companies, Mr. Eugenio Lopez. We were also entertained by a musicale presentation entitled, Undaunted the Musicale, which gives a colorful presentation of the the early beginnings of the Lopez clan circa 1800s up to present. 

Mr. Manuel Lopez

The musicale not only narrates the Lopez clan story but also gives us the experience of the time period with the background effect that shows excerpts of the book. It was like a journey to the past as if you are time traveling. That is why the book was published. We need to see their story from the first-person experience.

The bloggers and Undaunted author Raul Rodrigo

As a student of Broadcast Communication, I also studied the history of television media. The TV media pioneer was the Lopezes. Their insights and reputation gives me an idea about their timeless principles that made them a great television industry that almost all Filipinos enjoy today globally. This is what I should learn because maybe one day, I may be part of the industry when I graduate. It is not yet commercially available so watch out for it's release at your nearest bookstores.

DEATHLY HALLOWS” SMASHES RECORDS, RAKES IN P102-M IN 4 DAYS

MANILA, Nov. 22 – It's Pottermania all over again in the Philippines as Warner Bros.' “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1” shattered records and created box-office magic!    

The seventh Potter film made history by debuting with a death-defying P102-M nationwide for the Nov 18-21 frame, this according to Francis Soliven, general manager of Warner Bros. (F.E.), Inc. which distributed the film.

It’s four-day Metro Manila gross of P75.6-million represents the year’s most successful opening weekend for a Warner Bros. title, beating April’s mythological blockbuster “Clash of the Titans.”

Rolling out in more than 100 screens across the country, “Deathly Hallows” posted magical openings in the following Top 20 cinemas: SM Mall of Asia (P8.13-M), SM North EDSA (P6.32-M), Trinoma (P5.98-M), Glorietta 4 (P3.97-M), Gateway Cineplex (P3.81-M), SM Megamall (P3.73-M), SM Cebu (P3.58-M), Greenbelt 3 (P2.96-M), Power Plant (P2.93-M) and Eastwood (P2.57-M).

Also showing impressive sales are Shang Cineplex (P2.45-M), Ayala Cebu (P2.22-M), Robinsons Ermita (P2.13-M), Alabang Town Center (P2.12-M), Robinsons Galleria (P1.91-M), Theatremall (P1.73-M), Market Market (P1.62-M), Festival (P1.58-M), SM San Lazaro (P1.52-M) and SM Fairview (P1.44-M).

Internationally, “Hallows – Part 1” soared to the top of the global box office in its opening weekend, earning a staggering $330.1 million dollars worldwide, encompassing $125.1 million in the US and $205 million overseas. 

The North American box office numbers shattered the franchise’s previous opening weekend record—held by “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” at $102.6 million—surpassing it by an astounding 23%. 

Worldwide, the opening weekend for “Hallows” ranks as one of the highest of all time, which is especially impressive for a non-holiday weekend.

With the success of its first six of seven titles, the Harry Potter series had already achieved the distinction of being the top-grossing film franchise of all time, reaching a combined worldwide gross of $5.4 billion.  The numbers for “Deathly Hallows – Part 1,” as well as the anticipation for “Part 2,” opening on July 15, 2011, should ensure its place in film history for years to come.

In “Part 1,” Harry, Ron and Hermione set out on their perilous mission to track down and destroy the secret to Voldemort’s immortality and destruction—the Horcruxes.  On their own, without the guidance of their professors or the protection of Professor Dumbledore, the three friends must now rely on one another more than ever.  But there are Dark Forces in their midst that threaten to tear them apart.

Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1” is still showing across the Philippines.

CDO Holiday Ham

For a limited time this Christmas season, CDO is offering the Holiday Ham. The Holiday Ham has the ideal taste suited for us Filipinos. Not only that it's seasonal, it's also cheaper than other brands for only PhP450.00 at the supermarket. The Holiday Ham can also be served with various presentations depending on your taste.

Some of the various ways to serve the ham

Polycom On Making Communications More Up Close and Personal

Have you ever watch Star Trek or any Sci-Fi related story? The Sci-Fi genre can give us an idea of an imaginary future. In Star Trek, for example, they can communicate through what they call a viewscreen were they can see the person and discuss their diplomatic concerns and other matters as well. This is how I see what Polycom is doing.

Rene Valiadolid, Channel Sales Director(Phils.)

When I first heard about Polycom, I thought it was just another company specializing in telecommunications but it was more than that.Polycom started in 1990 and is now established globally along with it's partners of equal stature like Microsoft, Hewlett -Packard, Siemens, IBM, and McAfee.

Randel Maestre,Global head and Senior Director of Industry Solutions

Polycom Global Head and Senior Director of Industry Solutions Randel Maestre gives us some idea what is Polycom about. Polycom,explains Mr. Maestre, is an art of conversation. Mr. Maestre said that the core of Polycom is it's Unified Collaboration or UC for short, is fast decision making, anytime/anywhere information, enhanced workflows, knowledge base, collaborative discussions and rich communication. Just to sum it all up is simply the basic components of communication: Sender-Message-Receiver. UC also means Unified Communication.

L-R. Rene Valiadolid, Tan Wei Leng, Randel Maestre

Polycom products and services like telepresence & video communication, voice communication, application tabs and it varies depending on the needs of its customer or client. They already have specific solutions covered different institutions like education, government, medicine and of course,business among others. For example, in the field of medicine, a medical specialist can provide instructions to a hospital from different location even while a surgery in progress and it's called telemedicine. This is an ideal way for us here in the Philippines because we are an archipelago because we are composed of remote islands.

One of the many products of Polycom

This makes communication more personal even at great distances. There are myths about video conferencing that needs to be eliminated. One myth about video conferencing is that it requires high bandwidth. Polycom guarantees that video conferencing can be a half the bandwidth. Another myth is that video conferencing is expensive. It is less expensive than traveling not to mention it's also a hassle.

One of Polycom's target is also the mobile communication such as mobile phones.Since it already advance the last decade Polycom is also pentrating the mobile market by delivering Unified Communication application starting with Samsung's Android based Galaxy tabs. Imagine handling your businesses at the palm of your hand.

Indeed, the modern communication makes the world smaller for us to connect with people and this is what Polycom stands for. American Technologies, Inc. or ATI is one of the local partners of Polycom. For more info about Polycom, simply go to their website at www.polycom.com

Coca Cola Lights Up Your Christmas Season

Christmas is always a tradition Cubao is preparing for and so is Coca Cola. Coca Cola teamed up with Araneta Center for the launch and the ceremonial lighting up of the Christmas Tree last November 12 at the Araneta Coliseum parking lot. The event kicked off starting with the Christmas Caravan with the Coca Cola Ambassadors Enchong Dee and Kim Chiu with the Pinoy Big Brother Teen Clash of 2010 housemates. 

Coca Cola ambassadors with Coca Cola executives

The parking lot was  also busy with games and photo ops as if you are in your college days. The main event was hosted by Nicole Hiyala and Chris Tsuper and featured many performances from your favorite Kapamilya stars and of course, the main attraction, the Light Up and Sound Display of this year's Christmas Tree. The commercial segments for the Coca Cola Christmas theme was also revealed at the event.

Also, it was the best way to promote the latest Coca Cola promotion: The Contour Glass. You can get the contour glasses at your nearest 7-11 outlets, sari-sari stores or public markets and Coca Cola Sales offices nationwide when you buy Coca Cola, Coke Light, Coke Zero, Sprite or Royal Tru Orange in any 500ml, 750ml, 1L, 1.5L, and 2L packs. Look under the Santa caps for the "Coke Glass" text and collect 2 more regular Coca Cola Santa caps and exchange these caps for one Contour Glass. It's never to early to have the spirit of Christmas this soon.

Movie Review:Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows part 1

Do I need to mention the synopsis? Seems like I don't need to tell because everybody knows that it's the seventh year of our boy Harry. My review will be partly from the book but more on the perspective of a moviegoer. As expected since it's part 1, you know you are expecting a cliffhanger in the end. Since Book 5 or the fifth movie, the Harry Potter stories got gloomy. Deathly Hallows Part 1 is the gloomiest story. Nevertheless, the Deathly Hallows Part 1 has revelations, some exciting scenes, comical situations and some romantic moments. What I didn't expect here was casting Bill Nighy as Rufus Scrimgeour. He is one of my favorite British actors but he wasn't what was describe in the book with leonic features but was as authoritative in his role. Personally, I am not disappointed that Book 7 story was divided in two parts. The finale like this needs longer hours because one movie can't bring justice to the story. Part 1's screening time is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.if you already read the separate book that in the Harry Potter universe, Tales of Beedle the Bard, it might be useful to have the head start if you read it first because it relates to this story. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows opens today in all cinemas.

Tech Review:Iomega® ScreenPlay™ Director HD Media Player

This is a must-have for those who like movies and TV series especially yours truly.This external hard drive can play your favorites not only from your PC, but also can be hooked up to a TV as well preferably a HD TV. All you need is just a TV jock and there you go. What's great with the ScreenPlay Director is that it can play all your Torrent downloads as well. Either you store Torrent file in the Media Player's hard drive or just plug in your USB flashdrive. If you just decide to use your laptop, be sure you have a good media player installed in your laptop. There is also a YouTube option for this.

With full 1080p high definition (24 fps) and up to 2TB of space to save your files, the ScreenPlay Director adds exceptional features like direct access to online media and network connections. This high-definition multimedia player connects easily to your home network to store & access your videos, music and photo collections. You can still save your office documents too.Easily browse your network to select stored videos and view on your home theatre or access online content with the convenient remote. Compatible with the latest media formats such as H.264, WMV, MKV, MP3, AC3 (Dolby® Digital Encoding), WAV, WMA, MPEG-1, MPEG-2 (AVI/VOB), MPEG-4 (AVI/XViD), DivX® and JPEG. It supports the Iomega USB WIFI Adapter for wireless access (adapter sold separately). Includes Iomega Protection Suite software. The ScreenPlay Director is powered by an Energy Star® qualified adapter for a better environment. The ScreenPlay Director is also more expensive than regular external hard drives but the convenience of having one is rewarding. It is really a good gadget to invest on.

 SRP

ScreenPlay Director HD Media Player 1TB Director - PhP 12,860.00

ScreenPlay TV Link Director Edition TV Link Director - PhP 7,000.00

Available at AShop, Complink,Digits Trading / Digital Hub,iStudio,Silicon Valley Concept Stores,Octagon,Liteware Computers.