Monday, May 28, 2018

RENAISSANCE GALLERY CELEBRATES ITS 15TH ANNIVERSARY

Press release


RENAISSANCE GALLERY CELEBRATES ITS 15TH ANNIVERSARY
JUNE 10 – JULY 4, 2018

In celebration of its 15th Anniversary, Renaissance Gallery, a leading purveyor of non-representational art in the country, presents “XV” which opens on June 10 till June 22 at the SM Art Center, with cocktail reception on June 13 at 6 pm.

Featured are the works of Hermes Alegre, Bien Benitez, Remy Boquiren, Arley Carig, Macoy Coching, Addie Cukingnan, Melvin Culaba, August Espino, Egai Fernandez,  Allain Hablo, Sam Penaso, Jay Ragma, Jucar Raquepo, Cid Reyes, Genesis Rovero, Ronaldo Ruiz, Aner Sebastian, Resty Tica, Valen Valero, Mellisa Villasenor , and Janice Young.

Succeeding this show is “Ambidextrous,” a group exhibition of artists working in both representational art and abstraction, which opens on June 24, with cocktail reception on June 25 at 6 pm. The show runs until July 4.
XV is curated by noted art critic, writer and visual artist Cid Reyes.
The Art Center is on the 4/F, Bldg. A, SM Megamall, EDSA cor. Julia Vargas Ave., Mandaluyong City. For inquiries, call Margaux Romero-Oracion at mobile: 0925-555-7790.

“XV”
THE FIFTEEN YEARS’ JOURNEY OF RENAISSANCE ART GALLERY
By CID REYES

Years and years after leaving college as students taking units in European history, we may have forgotten pretty much about the rise and fall of empires and the religious wars that divided Christendom, but it is a safe bet to say that none of us has ever forgotten the one word that summarizes the whole history of mankind since the Medieval Age: Renaissance! From the Latin root word meaning “rebirth,” Renaissance stands for the intellectual flowering of human knowledge that spanned philosophy, literature, science, and – in the field for which it is best known for: the arts. Think Leonardo da Vinci! Think Michelangelo, whose genius inspired the phrase “Renaissance Man!”

Against this brief background, we come to appreciate the inspiring idea that gave birth to an art showcase named Renaissance Art Gallery. Not surprisingly, it was a “brainchild” conceived in 2003  by the couple Manuel “Noli” and Agnes Romero. Already steeped in the appreciation of all things beautiful, such as jewellery and painting, Noli and Agnes recognized the genuine talent and skill of Filipino artists, many of whom have become personal friends, and whose works have comprised their own private collection. The Romero couple felt that a genuine way of expressing their appreciation is to help promote Filipino artists of various generations and artistic persuasions, both representational and non-representational. The criteria that are uncompromisingly observed are quality and excellence. And proof of the Romeros’ commitment to this conviction is the sustained “staying power” of fifteen years’ existence in the very competitive field of the art market.

And if further proof were needed, Renaissance Art Gallery continually lives up to its very name. The past many years have all been a compelling experience of re-freshening the vision of Philippine art as an essential expression of the Filipino soul, a “re-birthing” of the ideals that created the Filipino artist. While only the artist himself can find his own direction, or yes! a re-direction, Renaissance Art Gallery can be his precious avenue that allows for experimentation and revalidation, always receptive and sensitive to the personal journey of artists in their highly individual styles and techniques.


Impressive indeed is the list of solo exhibitions racked up in the past fifteen years since Renaissance Art Gallery opened its doors at the SM Megamall’s “ArtWalk,” where it has remained to this day. Indeed, many of these presentations were “debut” shows, the first held and granted especially for the younger generation of artists, who at that stage of their artistic development and maturity, needed and deserved encouragement and appreciation. In fact, these shows were so successfully launched and promoted that the artists were said to have been  “discovered” by the art community and the public at large. In turn, these artists express their gratitude by continually exhibiting with Renaissance Art Gallery and participating in significant events such as “XV” – Fifteen Years of Renaissance Art Gallery!

No doubt: even Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo will be raising a toast! So:  Here’s to the next fifteen years of Renaissance Art Gallery!
                                                                                   


Wednesday, May 23, 2018

MANILA WRESTLING FEDERATION BRINGS LIVE ACTION-ADVENTURE TO UP DILIMAN WITH “MWF 2: MAKI-WRESTLING, ‘WAG MATAKOT”

Press release


After its highly successful and much-talked about debut last April, Manila Wrestling Federation (MWF) – the country’s hottest live athletic entertainment company – marches on with its fun, family-friendly and Pinoy-flavored brand of professional wrestling with “MWF 2: Maki-Wrestling, ‘Wag Matakot” at the UP Bahay ng Alumni, Diliman, Quezon City on May 27. Show starts at 6 PM.  

The evening’s main event features the company’s two top stars: the freedom-loving Robin Sane against the patriotic Mr. Lucha, kicking off a grand tournament to crown the first-ever MWF Champion in December, which is set to be the country’s most-coveted prize in sports and entertainment.

Now dubbed as the Philippines’ first and only “AksyoNovela”, the MWF delivers relatable and relevant stories through colorful, larger-than-life and uniquely Filipino characters, including the overly enthusiastic inspirational life coach Gus Queens, the Pinoy fighter Rex Lawin, action star Gigz Stryker and the street bully Fabio Makisig, in athletic exhibitions in the wrestling ring.


In addition to the superb in-ring showcase, MWF creates immensely entertaining moments, such as last month’s audio-visual spectacle “Sagot Kita! Anytime, Anywhere” featuring a screen-to-stage appearance by Japanese actress Maria Ozawa, through a core team of professional stage, TV and film artists led by Ohm David, Meliton Roxas, Teresa Barrozo, Juan Carlo Tarobal and William Elvin Manzano.

“We want to make this a new alternative theatrical spectacle,” says MWF onstage personality and TV/film actor Tarek El Tayech. “We want to be able to tell stories better and more vividly than everyone else, not just here in the Philippines or the entire Southeast Asian and Asian region, but all over the globe”.

MWF has also partnered up with event ticketing app Ticket2Me, making it more convenient for Pinoy wrestling fans to buy their tickets online and pay through a variety of outlets such as Paypal, local banks, and 7-11 stores nationwide.

Get your tickets for “MWF 2: Maki-Wrestling, ‘Wag Matakot” now at  www.ticket2me.net. For inquiries and ticket reservations, please send a message to the Manila Wrestling Federation’s official Facebook page www.facebook.com/ManilaWrestlingFederation, or contact +63 9178431194. 

ABOUT MANILA WRESTLING FEDERATION
Manila Wrestling Federation is a Manila-based sports-entertainment group, specializing in professional wrestling. The MWF offers a colorful cast of wrestlers and exciting, competitive in-ring action the whole family can enjoy!


Friday, May 18, 2018

CCP WELCOMES MARGIE MORAN AS ITS NEW CHAIRPERSON

PRESS RELEASE
May 18, 2018


CCP WELCOMES MARGIE MORAN AS ITS NEW CHAIRPERSON


THE Cultural Center of the Philippines welcomes its new chairperson, Margarita “Margie” Moran-Floirendo, succeeding advertising maven Emily Abrera. She was appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte as a member of the CCP Board of Trustees in January, 2018 and was elected as CCP Chairman during the board meeting held in April.


Ms. Moran-Floirendo was the president of Ballet Philippines, a resident company of the CCP. During her time, she spearheaded successful fund-raising campaigns such as the Art Auction and Ballet Barbie, and special galas including Stella Abrera's debut performance in the Philippines, through Giselle, in 2015, and ballet dancer Connor Walsh in 2011, and Joseph Gatti's Philippine debut performance for Don Quixote, among others.

With a soft heart for ballet dancers, the former BP president has supported the dancers' campaigns to international ballet competitions (IBC), including the successful campaign of Candice Adea (with her partner JM Cordero and coached by Victor Ursabia) in the USA IBC, Helsinki IBC, Seoul IBC and Boston IBC. She was also able to help raise the salaries of the dancers.

Through her efforts, the Ballet Philippines was able to establish branches of BP Dance School in SM Aura in Taguig, Greenhills Theater Mall in San Juan, and Victoria Sports in Quezon City. With her support, the CCP resident ballet company went to perform in various countries including US, Canada, China, Middle East, South Korea, Indonesia and Cambodia, as well as various cities and regions in the country.

Notable for her social and civic works in promoting peace and livelihood in Mindanao, the new chairperson has been an advocate of Philippine arts and culture, starting with her stint at the Southern Philippines Foundation for the Arts, Culture and Ecology.

Ms. Moran-Floirendo hosted “Margie on Mindanao” on ANC and produced the multi-awarded film “Bagong Buwan.” In 2009, she hosted “The Red Carpet,” a cultural show of the CCP which aired on Net 25. She published two books, “Mindanao, A Portrait” and “Mindanao in the Mend.”

She also made her mark for winning the second Miss Universe crown for the Philippines in 1973, four years after Gloria Diaz won the crown in 1969. Two years after her reign as Miss Universe, she finished her business administration degree at the Maryknoll College (now Miriam College) and Boston University, and her masters degree at the University of London, awarded through the School of Oriental and African Studies. She moved on to work in various companies including the Pearl Farm Beach Resort in Samal Island, Davao del Norte.

Friday, May 11, 2018

Enjoy Countless Treats this Mother’s Day at Ortigas Malls

Press Release


Ortigas Malls are big on celebrations, and with Mother’s day just right around the corner, you can expect to have exciting events dedicated especially for the special lady in our lives: our moms.


Glam Mum

For the month of Mom, we’re celebrating across all Ortigas Malls where moms will have the chance to take a well-deserved break by having Glam Mum pamper sessions in any Ortigas mall. Moms who shop on Mother’s Day, May 13, with a minimum spend of P2,000 using their Mastercard credit card will even get a chance to win prizes at our pick-a-prize in Greenhills, Tiendesitas, or Estancia!

Mother’s Day Fair


In addition to that, there will be a Mother’s Day Fair at the Greenhills V-Mall Lobby from May 7 to 15 where all sorts of goods will be available. Make sure to bring and treat your mom to a shopping spree at the shopping mecca of Metro Manila!

Tiendesitas, on the other hand, is also be hosting a special Mother’s Day Weekend Pop-Up at the Level 1 Building B from May 11 to 13. Check out the pop-up stores that will offer specialty goods, food, art, and so much more.

From May 12 to 13, Estancia’s Mother’s Day Mom Squad will have pamper sessions for all the deserving moms, and a bazaar that’s sure to be chock full of gifts as a treat. There will also be an ongoing art exhibit by Irene Ibanez in time for Mother’s Day, which will highlight the love between a mother and a child. Having had 10 years of experience with watercolor, Irene has been creating worlds on canvas by weaving wonderful little stories with a blend of elegance and whimsy. She has since shared these worlds with her daughter Isabela, and together, they are able to strengthen their bond as they grow in their art. This exhibit will also mark Isabela Ibanez’s debut into the local art scene.

Featured as well is Irene’s long-time mentor, Roland Santos, a well-regarded watercolorist who has been painting since his teenage years and is praised today for his expressive series of old houses, flowers, horses, landscapes, and still-life.

To top it all off, there will also be a special performance by Finn Morrison on May 13 at Estancia for all mall-goers to enjoy.

Bring your mom to your favorite Ortigas mall to celebrate with all the exciting events it has in store for them! Give her a well-deserved break, and make sure to spoil her on her day with Ortigas Malls.

     May 13, 2018
- Glam Mum pamper sessions at Greenhills, Tiendesitas, and Estancia.
     May 7-15, 2018
- Mother’s Day Fair at the Greenhills V-Mall Lobby
     May 11-13, 2018
- Mother’s Day Weekend Pop-up at the Level 1 Building B of Tiendesitas
     May 12-13, 2018
- Mother’s Day Mom Squad, with an art exhibit and live performance at Estancia

For more information, check out each of these Ortigas Mall’s social media page:

Friday, May 4, 2018

MOTO TOURISM COUNCIL JOINS SILLAG 2018 CELEBRATION

Press release


Early this month, Moto Tourism Council (MTC) joined in the celebration in La Union – Poro Point’s Sillag Festival 2018 by forming a unity ride that started in Manila and ended with a luncheon treat at the baywalk of Poro Point Freeport Zone. A total of 17 members participated in the unity ride from Manila showing the joy and safety fun of motorcycling trip plus the beauty of the various provinces that they have passed by.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Wanda Corazon Tulfo Teo has approved the formation of the Moto Tourism Council (MTC) that will draft the Moto Tourism campaign plan aimed at boosting motorcycle travel in the country, and eventually generate additional revenues for the tourism sector. A thrust that Assistant Secretary Frederick Alegre himself supports, since he is a rider himself. According to him, the MTC is aimed to show not only the beauty of certain parts of the country but the entirely of it. From Luzon to Mindanao, using the Philippine Nautical Highway, motorcycle riders can now enjoy a trip to any point in the country.
The La Union unity trip aims to promote not only the beauty and safety of proper motorcycle riding but also the possibilities of the being developed Freeport Zone. Joining the unity ride were Manuel Jose, Christpher Pedrosa, Chris Franco, Alvin Aggregado, James Selenio, Raffy Escano, Bobbit Tongco, Miggy Tongco, JT Lansangan, Peter Lansangan and Peter Barrientos, to name a few.
Arriving during the second day of the Sillag Festival celebration, La Union was awaken by the number of riders passing by the main road of the province before ending at the Freeport Zone. The weather was so endearing that it was both sunny and windy at that time. Met by the Highway Patrol team and that of the PNP, the site of riders being accompanied was a sight to behold, elevating the curiosity of the people on what is there to see that day at the celebration ground. With bikes and riders, a riding spectacle was created for the people of La Union and that of Poro Point. Participants of the ride were then treated to an all Filipino luncheon spread prepared by the PPMC Poro Point Management Corporation headed by Dir Warly Guerra, Chairman of Investment Committee. Dir Guerra gave the guests a briefing of the investment opportunities in Poro Point Freeport Zone. He also seeked the help of the businessmen to help in promoting PPFZ as investment destination.
Not only did the MTC did the unity ride but they also started the Parade of Lights celebration and took the time to display their various bikes for people to see and take pictures with; something that bike riders, bike enthusiasts and fans took delight that day in the festival.
With this simple exhibition of motorcycling experience, riders can now travel and enjoy in their own pace the trip of doing a point-to-point tour of the country, promoting road and motorcycling safety and the scenic view of the place. No small thanks to the thrust of the Department of Tourism in looking into the various ways that people can truly explore the country.

Thursday, May 3, 2018

CCP AND BENCH TEAM UP TO PRESERVE THE PHILIPPINE TERNO

 Press release

INSPIRED by the successful turn-out of last year’s Fashioning the Terno mentoring program for regional designers, the CCP and Bench team up once again to undertake a second phase for 2018 entitled TERNOCON, a terno making convention and contest for regional designers culminating with a Fashion and Cultural Showcase at the CCP on November 11, 2018.


TERNOCON aims to encourage the use of the terno as a popular form of formal dress; to connect the knowledge and skills from Fashioning The Terno – Phase 1 to a contemporary application in terno making; and to inspire and motivate regional designers to create ternos that are at par with the construction skills of senior fashion designers.  A total of thirty (30) regional designers were chosen from the 2017 phase 1 participants who come from 17 provinces/local communities nationwide.  Each finalist must design, create and execute one cocktail balintawak terno and one formal terno.  A preparatory workshop is slated from May 8-10, 2018 at the CCP Main Theater Lobby.  The 30 finalists will be mentored by some of the county’s top professional designers to include Inno Sotto, JC Buendia, Cary Santiago, and Len Cabili.


The CCP Cultural Exchange Department (CED) and Bench jointly implemented the 2017 Mentoring Program held in the cities of Vigan, Bacolod and General Santos from July, August and December.  The program was successfully finished by 43 local designers, artists, educators and cultural workers involved in theater, dance, and heritage conservation from 24 provinces/communities nationwide.  Lead facilitator and instructor Gino Gonzales enthused on the stimulating outcome of the regional workshops. “There is a lot of real talent and genuine enthusiasm in the regions, so it’s very encouraging to go the extra mile for the participants.  Our goal is to propagate the use of the terno and give the participants a unique opportunity to shine on a national level.”

The contest proper will be held at the CCP Main Theater stage on November 11, 2018 which will also include a cultural performance by some of the country’s most prominent artists and performing groups.  It will also showcase new couture ternos by three preeminent fashion designers. A select team of experts will judge the entries based on adherence to tradition and competition guidelines; craftsmanship/execution of design; creativity; and wearability/functionality.  The winners will receive cash prizes and citations.

For more information, contact the CCP Cultural Exchange at tel. no. 832-1125 local 1708 and 1709 or email atccp.ced2014@gmail.com