Financial marketplace celebrates women entrepreneurs

L-R Daniela Laurel; Camille Villar and DTI Operations Group assistant secretary Blesila Lantayona

Manila, Philippines , March 27 2019 two of the most fulfilled women in their chosen fields and carreers shared their experience, challenges, and success they achieved and thrive harder in their work. While DTI Operations Group assistant secretary Blesila Lantayona tells about how the government can help particularly women to excel in their fields.

Now is a good time to be a woman-trepreneur in the Philippines.Just last year, the Philippines was rated as the ninth best market for women entrepreneurs in the world in a report by global payments company Mastercard.

The Philippines made the top 10, the only market not in the developing world to do so. The only other Southeast Asian country in the top 10 is Singapore.

The report found that women entrepreneurs in the Philippines benefit from what is considered a gender-friendly business environment.

By becoming entrepreneurs, women are given the opportunity to channel their energy and passion into projects that help them gain financial independence. Women who go into business for themselves have the satisfaction of not just seeing their enterprises grow but also of knowing that they can support themselves and their loved ones.

Online financial marketplace eCompareMo.com salutes hardworking and ambitious Filipino entrepreneurs. As part of their advocacy to help Filipinos make better financial decisions, they want to help the Filipina in her drive to become a successful entrepreneur.

In line with that, eCompareMo.com hosted “#SHERules: Filipinas Who Change The Way We Do Business,” a roundtable discussion on empowering women through entrepreneurship, which took place on March 27 at the Rockwell Club in Makati City.

#SHERules esteemed panelists included Department of Trade and Industry Regional Operations Group assistant secretary Blesila Lantayona; Financial Literacy Advocate Daniela Laurel; and Camille Villar, managing director of Vista Land and Lifescapes and daughter of recently named Forbes’ Richest Filipino, Manny Villar. They join eCompareMo.com’s Chief Operating Officer, Ched Limson, in speaking about the unique challenges and triumphs faced by Filipina entrepreneurs today.

“The power of women is often underestimated, both by themselves and others. I’m so proud to be able to highlight just how the Filipina can harness her inner strength and channel it through entrepreneurship,” said Limson.

“Through our online financial marketplace, we give everyone who wants to grow their business access to financing through a wide selection of loans with low interest rates and light payment terms. Whether you’re looking for seed capital or extra funds to expand your business, we can help you find the right loan to suit your needs,” she added.

About eCompareMo

eCompareMo.com is the Philippines’ largest online financial supermarket for credit card, loan, investment, and insurance services. Launched in 2014, it is the first and only portal in the country to provide end-to-end services, from product comparison to application to approval. It is also the first fintech company to offer a Car Insurance Concierge—giving car owners complete assistance in getting their first policy, insurance renewal, and claims settlement.

Summer is made more fun with Everyday is Play Day Year 3

Last Monday March 25, 2019 , A kick off of summer fun and the biggest collaboration of best-loved global toy and children’s brand, brings to everyone Everyday is Payday on it’s 3rd biggest year, launched at SM City North Edsa, that will surely showcase series of exciting shows and festivities for both kids and Kid’s at heart in many of your favorite SM Supermalls from March to October  2019

This year’s campaign is particularly extra special as SM Supermalls is partnering with UNICEF, and together they are set to promote and instill every child’s right to play, relax and indulge through a holistic approach or both their artistic and recreational activities. Through this team up, they promote their shared advocacy to bring more smiles to children’s face across the country.

“SM brings back  Everyday is Play with Kiddie characters, meet and greet, and interactive play aims to help develop their  confidence and their social skills”, said Jonjon San Agustin, SM Supermalls SVP for Marketing.

Through a showcase of a new  found wonderlands filled with real play and digital experiences while also featuring toy collections, play machines and giant interactive displays. Through this teamup, they promote their shared advocacy to bring more smiles to children’s faces across the country.

A reach beyond every kid’s imagination will also power up the launch with some memory games and scientific experiments from Nutty Scientist, a colorful ball pit plunge from Ball Pit City, and special performances and appearances from previous winners of Sm Little Stars, the Concio Sisters, Celebrity Supermoms, and mascots from participating brands.

Don’t forget to let your kids @EatPlayShopinTheCity  this summer at this participating malls.

SM City North Edsa, SM City Fairview, SM City Novaliches, SM City San Jose Del Monte, SM City Manila, SM City San Lazaro, SM City Sta Mesa, SM City East Ortigas, SM City Taytay, SM City Angono, SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, SM City BF  Paranaque, SM City Sucat, SM City Bicutan, SM City Las Pinas and SM City Muntinlupa.

Say no to stress and yes to fresh with Fruitas

Do you want to feel and look like a pop star this summer? Shake off all your stresses and beat the summer heat by dancing them away with Fruitas’ shakes and the queen of pop, Sarah Geronimo! 

To get everyone into this healthy, refreshing habit, Fruitas launched their latest “Fresh Ka Pa Ba?” campaign through a grand launch held last March 22 at the Le Village Food Park in Quezon City. Along with the official introduction of Sarah Geronimo as the newest face of Fruitas, a Fruitas dance and jingle was also showcased. Guests had the chance to participate in lots of fun and activities, including a booth that let them show off their #FruitasShakeMuna dance moves. 

Named as the newest Fruitas brand ambassador, Sarah embodies the freshness and energy that comes with being healthy and happy. She makes it a habit to take fruits everyday knowing that a fruit a day is a great way to prevent a lot of diseases.  

One way to meet your daily fruit requirement is to take juices, a smart and easy way to consume the vitamins and nutrients that your body needs. 

To get things shaking, Fruitas kicked-off the #FruitasShakeMuna dance contest to get everyone on the road to health and wellness!  

“This year, we want to make every Filipino’s summer fresh despite the heat. And what better way to do it than with a fresh Fruitas shake and dancing! It can make you healthy and make you feel great all the time.

Many millennial join in on the summer fun with Fruitas  and for those who upload their own #FruitasShakeMuna dance cover with a caption on why you choose Fruitas as your ultimate refresher on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. Five lucky winners  win P20,000 and a one year’s supply of Fruitas! 

You too can say no to stress and yes to fresh. Look good and feel good with Fruitas this summer.

Fruitas Holdings Inc. is the leading group in the food cart industry in the Philippines. Since its first stall opened in 2002, the group now has 1000 stores all over the country and over 20 brands in its portfolio, which includes well-loved food concepts Fruitas fresh from Babot’s Farm, Fruitas Ice Candy, Black Pearl, Buko Loco, Juice Avenue, Friends Fries, The Mango Farm, Halo Halo Islands, Johnn Lemon, Shou Hand Pulled Noodles, Cindy’s Candy Cloud and Fancie.  

For more information, you may visit: http://fruitasholdings.com/.

Coco Martin bares his "Biker" side as an Ambassador for Shell

Last Saturday March 23, 2019, Coco Martin Shell’s newest Ambassador launched the Shell Advance Oil and had a chance to meet the Shell partner dealers and witnessed the winning bidders of the day with a chance to win a motor bike.  

WILDLY popular for his long-running action TV series “Ang Probinsyano” and his acting skill that has earned him local and international recognition, Coco Martin admits that aside from his family and his craft, one thing that gives him pure joy is riding his motorcycle.

Whenever possible, Coco would be seen riding a motorcycle in his films or in TV dramas.
“Kung mapapansin nyo, lagi akong gumagamit ng motorsiklo pag gumagawa ako ng mga pelikula at soap opera kasi isa yun sa mga trademark ko eh, at isa yun sa mga passion ko kaya pinapakita ko 'to sa mga pelikula,” Coco said.

He started riding at the age of 16 when he worked as a tricycle driver to have money for school. Not one to hide his modest roots, Coco admits that he used to drive his lola’s tricycle at night till the wee hours of the morning so he could have “baon” for school.

“Bata pa lang po ako, ito na ang ikinabubuhay ng aming pamilya. Ang lolo ko ay jeepney driver at ang tatay ko po ay ganun din. Ang lola ko naman ay may tricycle na pamasada. Noong matuto akong mag-motor, ipinasada ko na ang tricycle ng lola ko pangtulong sa pamilya, at pambaon ko sa eskuwela,” Coco proudly shares.

That started his love for motorcycles so much so that when he started earning, initially from doing indie films, his thoughts turned to making the future for his family which was why he bought three tricycles and a brand new jeepney for his father to continue the family business.

Coco’s passion for motorcycle continued through the years and he is now the proud owner of not one, not two, but 11 motorcycles.

Of the 11 bikes, he has a current favorite which he says provides both comfort and an adrenaline rush.
He also treasures his very first bike, given to him by no less than actress Dawn Zulueta.
Coco says that whenever he gets the chance, he rides his bike to the countryside to relax his mind from the stress of work.

“Masarap po sa pakiramdam yung mag-bike ka at magpunta sa mga lugar na tahimik para makapag-relax,” he says.

Being a responsible biker Coco admits that he was a reckless driver when he started and has had a few accidents.

“Bata pa kasi ako nun, so medyo reckless ako magmaneho at sumemplang na din ako ng ilang beses,” he said.

Over the years, he realized the importance of being a responsible biker by undergoing proper safety training.

He adds, “Base sa mga kamalian ko noon, naisip ko nga na kailangan mo talagang dumaan sa training, kasi hindi basta-basta ang paggamit ng motor. Maaring sa isang iglap may mangyari sa iyo na hindi maganda, kaya better talaga na mag-training ka, para maiwasan yung mga aksidente.”
Part of being a responsible owner, Coco said, is making sure that your motorcycle is well-maintained and in tip-top condition.

“Syempre, iniingatan ko yung mga motor ko. Unang-una, yung maintenance hindi dapat pinapabayaan. Shell Advance ang lagi kong ginagamit  na langis para mapanatili kong malinis at malakas ang makina ng mga motor ko,” Coco said.

That was the reason why it was very easy for Coco to accept the invitation of Shell to become its brand ambassador for Shell Advance.

“Alam ko kasing mapapagkatiwalaan ng mga nagmo-motor ang Shell Advance dahil ako mismo, ito ang gamit ko. Kaya madali rin para sa akin na i-endorse din ito sa iba pang motorcycle riders para sa maintenance ng kanilang mga motor,” Coco adds.

Shell Advance has a complete range of motorcycle and scooter oils specifically formulated to give complete engine protection so that you can outride anything. Motorcycle enthusiasts like Coco Martin regularly use Shell Advance because it maximizes horsepower, enhances fuel economy, keeps pistons clean, provides superior wear protection and protects against extreme heat. 

Shell Advance is one among the many products that form part of Shell’s 105-year legacy of service and quality, all of which aim to make the future for motorists—whether riders of motorcycles and tricycles or drivers of cars and trucks.

Since the dealer partners wanted very much to win by the highest bid, Shell representatives and its leadership decided to divide the highest bid for the two outstanding highest bidder and give them instead of One (1) bike, they reconsider giving Two (2) bikes to the winners.

Details and Photos of  the Winners will be on the next issue of this blog. 

For more information, visit www.shell.com.ph

Sarah G. Finds A New Love

This time, her brand-new passion leads her to the kitchen

Manila, Philippines – Just when you thought Sarah Geronimo can do it all, she reveals that she has also learned how to cook. Speaking at the launch of Phoenix SUPER LPG, the Popstar Royalty shared that although it took her a while, she really wanted to learn how to whip up culinary hits in the kitchen.

“Ginusto ko po talagang matutong magluto. Parang ang sarap kasi sa pakiramdam na kaya mong ipagluto ‘yung pamilya mo and mga friends mo (I really wanted to learn how to cook. It feels good to be able to cook for your family and friends),” shared Sarah.

Having discovered the joys of cooking, Sarah took culinary classes to further her newfound passion. She started with little experiments--from whipping eggs correctly, to cooking simple dishes. Eventually, Sarah learned to make Filipino favorites such as adobo and sinigang.

“Marunong na rin po akong gumawa ng iba’t ibang sauces (I also know now how to make different sauces),” Sarah quipped in between laughter.

HER SECRET RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

For Sarah, nothing beats preparation and hard work when it comes to pursuing any interest. This has always been her magic formula to succeed in whatever she chooses to do. She also emphasized the importance of having help or assistance available whenever needed. For this, she counts on her mentors who help bring out her best, whether she’s performing on-stage or acting on-screen.

Even when it comes to cooking, Sarah admits to getting some assistance. She admitted, “Syempre kailangan natin ng safe and simple tool to help me, ‘di ba? Especially when I was just starting, medyo kabado po ako magluto (I need a safe and simple tool to help me, right? Especially when I was just starting, I was really nervous).”

THE TASTE OF DISCOVERING MORE JOYS

Sarah swears by Phoenix SUPER LPG, which promises a safe, sigurado, and simple cooking experience. It uses a German-made SRG regulator with an inlet safety valve, a reserve indicator, and snap-on mechanism.

“Using Phoenix SUPER LPG makes me feel more at ease kasi ang dali n’yang gamitin, making cooking even more enjoyable and hassle-free. Sarap pala magluto! (Using Phoenix SUPER LPG makes me feel more at ease because it’s so easy to use, making cooking even more enjoyable and hassle-free. I realized how much it feels great to cook),” she said.

With features that highlight safety, certainty, and simplicity, Phoenix SUPER LPG helps Sarah pursue her new passion and discover the joys of cooking.

“We are happy to be partners with Sarah as she expands her passion from the stage to the kitchen. Just like anyone who cooks, she needs a reliable partner to make this experience more enjoyable. With Phoenix SUPER LPG, she’s sure to find more joy in cooking,” Phoenix Petroleum Assistant Vice President for Brand & Marketing Celina Matias said.

One of the highlight of the event, a group of 7 , with 4 members compete in cooking fish fillet and sauted beef Chef JM Sunglao taught and step by step give simple, five-minute, easy-to-make steps so they too can make their own dishes using the all-new Phoenix SUPER LPG. Although we have not won, we are happy and joyful that we learn a very simple yet classy and healthy meal.

To order your own Phoenix SUPER LPG, please call #SUPER (#78737) for nationwide delivery.

Maxicare hosts first-ever Veggie Festival

It’s high time that we should be more than careful enough on what we eat as a people specially what we share with our family and children. Today we are experiencing what the West does have since the 20st Century starts , they have done many safety measures specially the US . They now have alternatives of having unlimited dining of fresh and organic vegetables and have it available in a very affordable price.

Eating should not be merely satisfying your hunger because the diet you choose affects every aspect of your health, including the environment. It’s about time to eat healthy, live healthy, and take control of your health. It’s good news that Maxicare have this kind of program that would help us regulate cases of sickness that unhealthy diet brings.

As obesity and unhealthy lifestyles continue to grow into a global problem.  Maxicare Healthcare Corporation, the country;s leading healthcare provider arranged its first ever outdoor festival –“Maxicare Veggie Fest. 2019 , A project in support of the company’s Chairman of the Board Mr. Roberto ‘Bobby’ Macasaet Jr’s personal advocacy for healthier lifestyles.

“One of the easiest ways to start your journey to living a healthy life is by eating a plant-based diet which is why we are very proud to be holding the Maxicare Veggie Fest. Today, we invite everyone to live their best by boosting not only their physical health, but also their mental status. It’s like eating  your favourites but without the guilt “, said Macaset whose main objective is to improve the health and wellness, focusing on plant- based nutrition.

In its mission to improve others quality of life, Macasaet encourages members and non-members alike to incorporate a variety of fruits and vegetables, whose grains and starches, good fats and lean proteins into their diet so they can live longer and feel stronger by inspiring others to fight disease and eat healthy.

Held at the Legaspi Active Park in Makati City, the veggie fest was packed with plant-based advocates that offered hand-picked products for health conscious consumers. The activities included a film showing  on plant based lifestyle and a talk on “Holistic Healing for Wholesome Living presented by a YOGA instructor Donna Francisco. “Guilt Free and Gluten Free desserts” by Jessie Abergas of Jertie’s Kitchen. Skin Food – Understanding the Right food for a Beautiful Skin by Dr. Kathy Amurao Herrera  “Aging Gracefully” by May Manahan-Lagmadeo and Dr. Willy Lagmadeo of Health and Wellness Coaches Phils. Inc. “Lifestyle Medicine “ by Dr. Johann Manez and a Local Native plant-based eathing with “Mesa ni Misis by Juana Manahan Yupangco.

It’s time to get rid of old habits and start concentrating on moving towards excellent health. Don’t forget to place your inquiries , comments and feedbacks on their Social Media pages.

Our nation is one of the finest agricultural place in Asia and it is just right that we should go on doing organic planting as much as we can so that the price can be more affordable even to the lower class of the society. The government should be the one to lead this group of farmers to be funded and have their own way of making a business out of the crops and herbs.

For more information visit  www.maxicare.com.ph or their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/maxicarehealthcarecorporation.

Landlite reveals lighting design trends for 2019

21st Century has a lot to do with innovations on many things that we use at home , on our offices and almost everything we have. We can't stop technology to change and it should better our life specially with Landlite since its about how they transform old lighting's   into a more sustainable in terms of life span, greener environment, and most of all a more protection for our health and delicate parts of our bodies.

Eco-friendliness and sustainability. Multifunctionality. Mobility. Human-centeredness. These are the key lighting design trends to look forward to this 2019, as revealed by Landlite Philippines Corporation (LPC), a leading distributor of lighting fixtures and solutions in the country, as it gathered members of the media, industry partners, and their top clients at the sleek LuxDecor showroom in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

“We’re excited to share the latest lighting design trends for this year 2019,” says LPC CEO Jocelyn Li, during Lighting Trends and Designs 2019 where the top lighting distributor shared with key customers and media the latest lighting design and technology innovation.  “We would like to uplift the lighting standards of our market into a new level. We have three main priorities we focus on: Quality and service, evolving trends, design and innovation and product sustainability”.

During the event, LPC also presented its new brand ambassador top host and celebrity Marc Nelson who will appear in the company’s marketing campaigns and share news about LPC products and industry insights.

Below are the key lighting trends for 2019:

Eco-lighting
As the world becomes more conscious about the environment particularly in the reduction of waste and the promotion of recycling, lighting products are also responding to this call.

The Hook portable eco-lamp for one, designed by OiKo Design Office for Faro Barcelona, has been optimized for all stages of their life cycle, reducing the environmental impact between 30 percent and 70 percent. Free of harmful PVC, a harmful material present in most wires and plugs, the housings of The Hook portable eco-lamp are also made entirely of recycled plastic.

Human-centric
Another lighting trend that is fast gaining traction is human-centric design. Proponents of this movement say that CCT shifting, which refers to the correlated color temperature of LED bulbs, can help regulate circadian rhythms, moods, visual acuity and one’s performance.

Towards this end, Bohman&Folenius created the Inviting Light for home lighting, whose main characteristic is how the light moves to accompany you according to your different needs and moods. The head of the lamp adjusts both in its horizontal and vertical axis, while regulating light intensity, changes in color temperature, and also has a dimmable feature.

Its various versions—table, wall or clip—allow for multiple  locations, such as shelving units, headboards, study and work desks, as well as in the kitchen.

Multi-functional
Consumers of today now also seek out lighting solutions that can replace multiple pieces of equipment, in their desire for value for money as well as space-saving needs especially for those who reside in condominium units.

Thus, the stylish NIKO by Nahtrang—a homage to scientist and inventor Nikolai Tesla—was borne, which is actually two objects in one: a lamp and mobile charger, with a surface on which we can charge our smartphone without cables getting in the way. With its Nordic design with dual functionality, NIKO is perfect for illuminating bedrooms and living rooms, and is a good choice for hotels.

Mobility
Another interesting trend coming to the fore is mobility in lighting products, which is a response to those who are more outdoorsy in nature. The Take Away lamp designed by Nahtrang addresses this need, taking inspiration from lanterns coupled with the versatility of Japanese ceramic bowls: small, light, cable-free, and nomadic—allowing it to be placed anywhere.

Landlite took the opportunity as well to present its other range of lighting solutions: the Le Vita by Nahtrang, delicate and simple in design; the MOY by Nahtrang, a modern round light that provides a uniform illumination ideal for living rooms or busy areas; the Cometa which allows for uniform and high-quality illumination with anti-glare technology; and designer lamps inspired by different world cultures such as the Akane by Pepe Llaudet and the Aladino.

Germany and Portugal Displays their Tradition and Mastery of their Skills in the Sky

Last Sunday, March 2, 2019, Germany’s 9^th PIPC champs “Steffes-Ollig Feuerwerke” and Portugal’s “Pirotecnia Minhota” treats the crowd with their tradition and mastery of skills in the sky. 

This is the 2nd Week and Germany  shows how they compete , the sky almost turn into red no wonder the people  watching was just amazed and can't help but shout and applause . As it close the final execution of the firework  it ends with the song "I did it my way", which is just their innermost feeling of how they treat this as they are soon to be the 1st placer.in this competition.

  .

While Portugal has a monster like creature with fire  that has been there while gazing on the sky anytime ready to devour you. 

This one gives them the perspective and more assurance of being in the top three of the competition.

These two entries I believe would  have one of the finalist or 1 may won the first place in the 10 countries that joins the contest.

To cap off the competition and close a decade of giving the best pyromusical exhibition in the Philippines, March 30 promises the most spectacular display of colors and surprises with Poland’s Surex Firma Rodzinna and the Philippines’ own Platinum Fireworks Inc. in a grand finale like no other.

The annual PIPC Photo Contest will also highlight entries from amateur and professional photographers wherein winners will receive special prizes from PIPC’s partners and sponsors.

Tickets to the most-awaited 10^th PIPC are available at www.pyrophilippines.com or through SM Tickets, SM Cinemas, SM Mall of Asia ticket booths starting February 13, and at SM City Clark ticket booths starting February 14, ranging from the Patron with dinner at P1,800, VIP at P600, Gold at P350 and Silver at P120. Ticket prices will be different on the closing day of 10^th PIPC. Ticket coupons will be available for purchase in Metrodeal starting February 13, 2019.

This magnificent family-friendly bonding experience is made possible with Plati num Fireworks Inc., the City of Angeles, Pampanga, the Department of Tourism, Tourism Promotions Board, Philippine Reclamation Authority and our many sponsors.

For more information about PIPC show schedules, visit the SM Supermalls social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, and http://bit.ly/10thPIPCFAQs

AUTISM ADVOCACY LEADERS CONVERGE AT THE ANGELS WALK FOR AUTISM

 

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP), together with SM Cares, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Prime Holdings, holds the annual Angels Walk for Autism on March 3, at the Mall of Asia Arena. Since it began in 2007, the walk continues to advocate for acceptance, accommodation and appreciation of Filipinos with autism towards an Autism-OK Philippines.

This year’s Angels Walk for Autism celebrates our country’s legacy of strong leaders that have brought the autism advocacy forward -- for the last 30 years, across 97 chapters, with 13,000 members -- and have become the foundation on which the next generation of leaders will build the future.

Hans T. Sy was honored as the inaugural recipient of the ASP’s Leadership Award for Autism Inclusion and Welfare.  It is the society’s highest recognition, celebrating exemplary leadership that has significant and positive impact on advancing ASP’s vision of acceptance, accommodation and appreciation of persons with autism in an Autism-OK Philippines.

 Beyond awareness, Mr. Sy’s leadership has inspired tangible, measurable action through the accomplishments of SM Cares.

“Although many are aware of autism, very few people actually understand what it means to live life on the autism spectrum. SM Cares and ASP come together as a community to remind everyone that autism awareness and acceptance should be part of their everyday lives. Awareness is a good thing, but acceptance is far more meaningful,” said Engr. Bien Mateo, SVP of SM Supermalls and Program Director of SM Cares Program on PWD’s. 

Former President Fidel V. Ramos, who issued EO 711 of 1996, instituting the commemoration of the National Autism Consciousness Week, will be honored by ASP as the Father of the Philippine Autism Advocacy. “FVR’s leadership opened the doors for the government agencies and private institutions to begin the path towards genuine inclusion of persons on the autism spectrum,” shared Mona Magno-Veluz, ASP National President, “His administration’s disabilityinclusive policies have put the Philippines ahead of our ASEAN neighbors in advocating for persons with autism and other invisible disabilities.”

The pre-walk program was led by Ms. Dang Koe, ASP Chair Emeritus and the inaugural ASEAN Prize Laureate 2018.  The ASEAN Prize aims to recognise inspiring achievements and contributions that foster the ASEAN identity, promote the ASEAN spirit, and champion the ASEAN way.  ASP is among the active movers behind the ASEAN Autism Network and the ASEAN Mapping Project.

 ASP awarded the Autism Works Partners of the Year honors to Dohtonbori Philippines, a Japanese casual dining pioneer and to Willis Towers Watson, a global leader in risk management and consultancy, for their unwavering commitment to creation of productive opportunities for jobseekers with autism.

The program includes the presentation of the annual ASP Autism Angel Achievement Awards to Samantha Pia Cabanero (for Advocacy), Eduardo Enrique Munarriz (for Athletics), and Carlo Gregorio Veluz (for Visual Arts). It will also incorporate the induction of the new ASP Board of Trustees, composed of parent advocates; and the first set of officers of the ASP Self-Advocates Circle, composed of adults with autism. The festivities will include acts from special guests and performers on the autism spectrum, and a special presentation on ASP’s milestones since its foundation in 1989.

Over 20,000 participants -- families, professionals, supporters from the government and private sectors, from the Philippines and overseas -- are expected to join the annual walk from the MOA Arena to the SM MOA Music Hall.  The walk is held with the support of the MOA Arena, SM Mall of Asia, National Council of Disability Affairs, ASEAN Autism Network and the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability. 

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) is a national, non-profit organization working towards an environment that empowers persons with autism spectrum disorder to become the best of their potentials -- self-reliant, productive and socially-accepted members of the community. ASP labors to establish institutional mechanisms to support persons with autism and their families. Established in 1989, the organization -- composed of 13,000 members spread over 96 chapters -- has been in the forefront of providing services to families and individuals affected with autism. 

SM Cares is the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Prime Holdings, Inc. Its advocacies include Programs on Persons with Disabilities, Children and Youth, Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Environment Sustainability, Senior Citizens, and Overseas Filipino Workers (SM Global Pinoy). As a responsible integrated property developer, SM ensures that its CSR programs serve as a catalyst for positive change in the communities that it supports.

Ballet Manila closes 23rd performance season with DEUX

After a spectacular 23rd performance season, Ballet Manila is set to close its curtains with Deux, a double header that gracefully combines classical and contemporary ballet. The show will be held at the Aliw Theater, CCP Complex on March 2 and 9 at 6PM and March 3 and 10 at 3PM.

The first chapter of the show will open with classical vignettes. It will highlight “Les Sylphides,” also known as “Chopiniana” in Russia, a romantic dreamy white ballet that depicts a lone danseur (The Poet) surrounded by his muses – white-clad sylphs or air spirits, dancing in the moonlight. While there is no plot, its lingering music by Frederic Chopin and lyrical choreography by Michael Fokine evoke the illusion of ethereal weightlessness which characterized the romantic era of ballet where technique is the focal point, especially the intricate pointe work of ballerinas. 

From this dreamy ambiance, the audience will be transported to the second chapter filled with contemporary numbers, and exhilarating rock and roll beats in the world premiere of Martin Lawrance’s The Winding Road set to the legendary music of The Beatles. The young or old will surely connect to the music and lyrics of I Saw Her Standing There, Here, There and Everywhere, Something, The Long and Winding Road, She Loves You, and many more!

“It has been a very exciting and rewarding 23rd season for Ballet Manila. It kicked-off with electrifying productions that formed part of our “Tour de Force” and now we’re poised to close it with Deux,” says Ballet Manila CEO and Artistic Director Lisa Macuja-Elizalde. “We thank our audiences for their continued patronage and support and we hope to see you all again when the curtains rise for our 24thseason.”

Don’t miss this newest and most special double header! For tickets, visit www.bit.ly/balletmaniladeux. 

Ballet Manila is The Philippines’ Premiere Classical Dance Company. Under the leadership of Lisa Macuja-Elizalde, Ballet Manila has brought the magic of classical ballet to the farthest-flung regions of the country, as well as the important ballet capitals of the world. Ballet Manila also continuously innovates to provide its audience, clients, and business partners with a myriad of shows and performance options.