SBNLifestyle

December 28, 2018

ABS-CBN Unveils Sound Stages as Part of 65th Year of TV Celebrations

ABS-CBN Corporation marked its 65^th founding anniversary with the inauguration of its brand new sound stages in San Jose del Monte City, Bulacan last December 12.

ABS-CBN president and chief executive officer Carlo Katigbak said the two sound stages were built to support the company's efforts towards expanding its audience and content output beyond the Philippines and to foreign audiences.

"We want to bring ABS-CBN content to the international stage, and having a state-of-the-art facility and a world-class production team is a big step for us towards that direction and dream," Katigbak said.

ABS-CBN chairman Mark Lopez added, "What I'm most proud of about this project is that we're creating Hollywood-level sound stages which puts us at par with the rest of the world."

This project was the brainchild of ABS-CBN chairman emeritus Eugenio "Gabby" Lopez III, who saw that building the studios is the best way to keep in step with the world's top entertainment companies, which shoot bigger percentages of their programs and films in sound stages and not in remote locations. Moreover, the sound stages also enable the company to manage production costs more efficiently.

"Completing the sound stages represents a very major step for ABS-CBN in terms of our ability to create much better production. Through this we can show the world the best of the Filipino," said Lopez III.

Present at the inauguration of the sound stages along with Lopez III, Lopez, and Katigbak were ABS-CBN board member and former President and COO Freddie Garcia, ABS-CBN board adviser, former president and CEO, and current chief creative officer Charo Santos-Concio, ABS-CBN COO of broadcast Cory Vidanes, and ABS-CBN Film Productions Inc. managing director Olive Lamasan, together with Rep. Rida Robes, Mayor Art Robes, and some members of the ABS-CBN community.

The sound stages represent the beginning of a plan to establish a production hub that include sound stages, backlots, production and post production facilities and offices that will allow both ABS-CBN and Philippine-based productions to match production facilities found elsewhere in the world.

In parallel with the construction work, the production and support teams for both TV and Feature Films began a three-year training program for the stages both in Hollywood and in the Philippines designed by Manhattan Beach Studios together with ABS-CBN Studios Inc. and ABS-CBN University. Covering all aspects of production, the courses involved over 150 people and were designed to ensure that production processes mirror the best practices in the world.

Following the intensive training camp for production staff and crew, the studios will host the productions of upcoming teleserye "The Faithful Wife" and the much-anticipated "Darna" film in the second quarter of 2019.

Phase 1 of the production hub includes two 1,500 sq. m. (16,000 sq. ft.) sound stages with a floor to grid height of 30 feet, a breezeway with dressing rooms and various support rooms and the technical facilities in aid of production. Sitting on 7.7 hectares, the facility includes a visitor's center, parking facilities and various support buildings. The sound stages also boast of solar panels that help support the energy requirements of the whole facility.

Inaugurated in time to celebrate not only its 65th anniversary but also Star Cinema's 25th year anniversary, the stages will enhance the production output for both TV and film in the years to come.

Designed by California-based architecture firm Bastien and Associates together with Filipino firm AIDEA and consultants from Hollywood-based Manhattan Beach Studios, these represent a new wave of sound stage design customized for the Philippine climate.

Coincidentally, the sound stages are being inaugurated a few days shy of 50 years after the ABS-CBN Broadcast Center in Quezon City was inaugurated. Considered the most advanced facility in Asia at that time, the center opened on December 18, 1968.

Work on the sound stages started as early as 2010 with various members of the executive and production teams visiting facilities in South Korea, Mexico, North America, Europe and Asia to understand the nuances of sound stage work. The project proper started in Q1 of 2014 with construction commencing May 2017.

For updates, follow @ABSCBNpr on facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and visit abscbnpr.com.

By: JENG On 12/28/2018 12:24:00 PM

Discover the Origins of “Bumblebee” on Earth in New Adventure Film #BumblebeeMovie

In the more than 12 years since the first Transformers film commenced shooting in White Sands, New Mexico, the straightforward idea of turning a popular toy into a movie has surprised even its creators by growing into a worldwide phenomenon with box office receipts totaling $4.3 billion. With Paramount Pictures' new action-adventure Bumblebee, the saga enters new territory with a story as emotionally resonant as it is action-packed.

Check out a new Spot below and watch Bumblebee in Philippine cinemas Tuesday, January 8.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/wfPqGaHp_fw

As the film begins, audiences get their first glimpse of the Bumblebee of Cybertron lore. Known as B-127, the bright yellow transformer is a fierce warrior who has fought in a centuries-long conflict between the Autobots and the Decepticons. When all seems lost for the Autobots, B-127 is dispatched to Earth with a mission: Protect the planet and its inhabitants in the hope of establishing a refuge for his comrades.

His arrival is complicated when two Decepticons, Shatter and Dropkick, follow him and launch an attack that endangers Earth's inhabitants, and an American military team decides, understandably, that the alien species is a threat to mankind. Bumblebee attempts to hide from his pursuers disguised as a dilapidated yellow Volkswagen Beetle, but when a teenaged girl named Charlie decides to restore the vehicle, she inadvertently discovers his true identity.

Producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura describes the film as an origin story. "This is Bumblebee's origin story on earth. Since the movie predates the Bay chronology we had the opportunity to do a deeper dive into his character, giving the audience even more reason to fall in love with him. He effectively creates a brand new story through his relationship with Charlie. It becomes a rite of passage story for both of them," he explains.

When Screenwriter Christina Hodson first fleshed out her original take on Bumblebee, the filmmakers were attracted by her vision, Hodson envisioned a smaller, more family-friendly Transformers film with an emotional story at its core.

The producers were intrigued by the concept of a "kinder, gentler" Transformers story that incorporates a more emotional, humanized version of the bots. Christina convinced us to take a leap of faith and make a different kind of film than we had before," says di Bonaventura. "The audience has always wanted to know more about who the Transformers are, and her story allowed us to develop the characters and tell a more intimate story. We let the audience get to know a Transformer in a way they never have before."

Hodson's first draft, completed in the fall of 2016, was an emotionally centered story around Hailee Steinfeld's character Charlie and Bumblebee, "I love seeing girls going on adventures," Hodson says. "And I wanted to create a female character who didn't fit into typical boxes. I think one of the things that makes Charlie feel like an outsider is that she isn't just one thing. She's a bit nerd, a bit tomboy and a bit athlete. It is absolutely full of Transformers-style thrills and adrenaline and adventure and fun, but has a lot of heart, too."

The idea of focusing on one specific character was also greeted enthusiastically at Hasbro, creators of the original Transformers. Brian Goldner, the company's CEO and an executive producer of the film, was delighted to read a script that addressed the "inner life" of Bumblebee.

"We at Hasbro are guardians of the Transformers lore, so we particularly appreciate the way Charlie brings him to life in a whole new way that still connects directly to what fans know and love about Bumblebee."

"Bumblebee was the perfect choice, he is a fan favorite and probably the most human-like autobot. Bumblebee is heartfelt, has a youthful exuberance and is a multi-layered character," explains di Bonaventura.

Goldner also endorses the idea of setting the film in the 1980s, when the first Transformers toy line, animated television series and comic books took the world by storm. "Setting the story within that vibrant decade is a wonderful tip of the hat to the talented creators of those characters," he concudes.

Bumblebee is distributed in the Philippines by United International Pictures through Columbia Pictures. Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/uipmoviesph/ and use the hashtag #BumblebeeMovie.

By: JENG On 12/28/2018 12:16:00 PM

Spread Christmas Cheer with ABS-CBN Foundation International’s Gifts of Love Online Holiday Celebration

The desire to spread holiday cheer is a universal sentiment for people of goodwill. Gifts of Love Online Holiday Celebration allows people from around the world to be part of a gift-giving experience to benefit disadvantaged children in the Philippines. ABS-CBN Foundation International Managing Director Jerry Bennett explains that "There are many needy children back home in the Philippines and we all know that we can't help everyone, but we can help someone."

Gifts of Love Online Holiday Celebration is an online telethon that helps ABS-CBN Foundation International raise funds for theirGifts of Love campaign. This global outreach event will help the children in the Philippines with various necessities like food, clothes, and school supplies.

The online telethon will air live on two platforms on Thursday, December 20 from 1:00 pm – 7:00 pm, PST: Facebook Live (TFC US Official) and on TFC Online. Gifts of Lovewill feature performances and demonstrations from various talents from the US. This includes rapper, music producer, and spoken word artist Ruby Ibarra, singer/songwriter and YouTube sensation AJ Rafael, alternative/indie artist Jeremy Passion, popular YouTube content creator purplebanana25 (Hannah Tolentino), the Ichiban Girls, Sincerity Girls Ensemble, and pop singer Sheryn Regis. This will be hosted by TJ Manotoc, Nikka Magahis,Poca, and Ginger Conejero.

Bennett enjoins viewers and readers to "reach out and help at least one child. For only $30, their support will go to feeding a child for a month, as well as provide for their school needs, clothes and shoes." As The Jackson 5'sfamous song goes "Give love on Christmas Day. No greater gift is there than love." Bennett adds, "As we are blessed here in the U.S., we would like to give back and be channels of blessings this Christmas."

Spread the word and share the Christmas spirit. Gifts of Love Online Holiday Celebration is on Thursday, December 20 from 1:00 pm – 7:00 pm, PST on Facebook and on TFC Online.

By: JENG On 12/28/2018 12:10:00 PM

Sandra Oh and Andy Samberg Named Co-Hosts of 76th Golden Globe Awards on January 7, 2019 on Blue Ant Entertainment

Sandra Oh, star of the critically acclaimed drama series "Killing Eve," and Andy Samberg, star of Golden Globe-winning comedy "Brooklyn Nine-Nine," will co-host the 76th Annual Golden Globe Awards.

The three-hour telecast will air LIVE on Blue Ant Entertainment on Monday, January 7 at 8:00AMfrom The Beverly Hilton.

The Golden Globes serve as the official kickoff to the 2019 awards season. Winners in 25 categories — 14 in film and 11 in television — are voted on by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA).

"Sandra and Andy are the perfect choices to host this world-class event," said Paul Telegdy and George Cheeks, Co-Chairmen, NBC Entertainment. "They bring wit, charm and style to a room filled with the very best of film and television. It's sure to be another unforgettable fun-filled night."

"We're excited to welcome Sandra Oh and Andy Samberg as co-hosts of Hollywood's Party of the Year," said HFPA President Meher Tatna. "Both Golden Globe Award recipients have continually showcased their talents in film and television, and we can't wait see what their undeniable chemistry will bring to the Golden Globes stage."

"We are thrilled to have Sandra and Andy co-hosting the Golden Globes," said Mike Mahan, Executive Producer and CEO, dick clark productions. "This innovative pairing sets the perfect tone for the most entertaining awards celebration of the year."

Oh currently serves as co-executive producer and earned an Emmy Award nomination for Lead Actress in a Drama for "Killing Eve" as Eve Polastri, an MI5 officer who hunts down and becomes entangled with a cold-blooded female assassin. Previously, Oh starred as Dr. Cristina Yang on "Grey's Anatomy," for which she won a 2006 Golden Globe for Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Series, Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television, a Screen Actors Guild Award for Female Actor in a Drama Series and five Emmy nominations for Supporting Actress in a Drama. Oh's film credits include "Sideways," "Under the Tuscan Sun," "Catfight" and "Meditation Park," and she produced the animated film "Window Horses: The Poetic Persian Epiphany of Rosie Ming" as well as voicing the title character.

In 2014, Samberg was a two-time Golden Globe winner for "Brooklyn Nine-Nine," winning Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy and as a producer on the show for Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy. Prior to that, Samberg was a cast member on "Saturday Night Live" from 2005-12. His work on the iconic late night franchise earned him an Emmy Award and six additional Emmy nominations for his work with The Lonely Island and their digital shorts. The Lonely Island has also been nominated for three Grammys. In 2016, Samberg hosted the 67th annual Primetime Emmy® Awards and in 2013, hosted the Film Independent Spirit Awards.

The Golden Globe Awards, often referred to as "Hollywood's Party of the Year," is one of the biggest nights on the calendar for live viewing. It's also one of the few awards shows that combine the honorees of both film and television.

The 2018 Golden Globe Awards telecast averaged a 5.0 rating in adults 18-49 and 19 million viewers, according to Nielsen Media Research, putting it ahead of every show on television from the previous 10 months in total viewers, since the prior year's Academy Awards.

Produced by dick clark productions in association with the HFPA, the Golden Globe Awards are viewed in more than 210 territories worldwide.

Meher Tatna is President of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association. Allen Shapiro, Executive Chairman of dick clark productions, Mike Mahan, CEO of dick clark productions and Barry Adelman, Executive VP of Television at dick clark productions, will serve as executive producers.

Blue Ant Entertainment is available on SKYcable channels 53(SD) and 196(HD), SKYdirect channel 35, Destiny Cable channel 53, and Cablelink channels 37.

By: JENG On 12/28/2018 12:08:00 PM

TFC Relives the Christmas Season for the OFs via Kapamilya Reunion

Keeping true to the theme of ABS-CBN's Christmas station ID family is love, The Filipino Channel in partnership with Remitly will bridge the distance between overseas Filipinos and their families here in the Philippines via Kapamilya Reunion 2019.

Reliving the Noche Buena feels for the overseas Filipinos who were not able to come home for the holidays, TFC through Kapamilya Reunion 2019 will be treating them and their families to a post-holiday virtual celebration where their families in the Philippines will get to enjoy great Filipino food, meet some Kapamilya stars, and bring home surprise freebies.

Want your family in the Philippines to be part of this virtual celebration? Just complete this sentence: I'd like to nominate my family in the Philippines for a virtual salu-salo from TFC because…" and send it to TFC's official Facebook page applicable in your area.

The entries will be reviewed by a committee from ABS-CBN Global Ltd. from January 3 to 6, 2019. Winners will be contacted by a TFC representative and will also be posted on The Filipino Channel's social media accounts starting January 7 to January 9, 2019.

The families in the Philippines of the selected overseas Filipinos will attend the Kapamilya Reunion 2019 event which will happen on January 13, 9:00 A.M. at the Restaurant 9501 inside the ABS-CBN Compound.

Don't miss this chance to have a unique post-holiday celebration with your loved ones in the Philippines, send your entries now for Kapamilya Reunion. Deadline for submission of entries will be on January 3, 2019.

For more details, visit TFC's official Facebook page applicable in your area.

By: JENG On 12/28/2018 12:05:00 PM

Pacquiao-Broner and Nietes-Ioka Boxing Fights Air Live on SKY Sports Pay-Per-View

SKY Sports Pay Per View is set to unleash slam-bang boxing action this December and January as it features skirmishes between Manny Pacquiao and Adrien Broner for the WBA Welterweight title this January 20, and Donnie Nietes and Kazuto Ioka for the vacant WBO Superflyweight Championship this December 31 in Pinoy Pride: Nietes vs. Ioka.

SKY subscribers nationwide who will avail of the "Pacquiao vs. Broner" fight on or before January 4 can enjoy the early bird rate of Php 699, instead of Php 949. The fight airs live, commercial-free, and in high or standard definition with a replay on the same and day right after the live event.

Pacquiao (60-7-2, 39 KOs) who recently turned 40, is out to prove to the world that he is not yet done as he faces the 29-year old boxer for his 70^th fight. This fight also serves as a reunion with his trainer Freddie Roach who confirmed that he has agreed to work again with Pacquiao.

The American boxer Broner (33-3-1, 24 KOs), a former four-division titleholder, is hungry for a win since he lost to Mikey Garcia in July 2017, and got a draw in his fight with Vargas last April 21.

Call 418 0000 or your local office or visit www.mysky.com/pacman to subscribe. SKYcable and One SKY Fiber with HD Cable subscribers can also text PACMAN to 23662. SKYdirect postpaid subscribers can text SKY to 23668, while prepaid subscribers can text PPV BOXING <BOX ID> to 23667 (available to Globe Prepaid and TM). Meanwhile, One Sky Fiber subscribers who have no access to cable TV may avail of this same offer via SKY On Demand.

Before Pacquiao's highly anticipated return to the ring this January, SKY subscribers nationwide can watch the live, commercial-free, and high-definition airing of the Donnie Nietes-Kazuto Ioka battle for the vacant WBO Superflyweight title for only P99.

See if "Ahas," who is coming from a draw with Aston Palicte, can secure the title over the holidays against the Japanese fighter who won his last fight with Williams Arroyo.

To catch "Pinoy Pride: Nietes vs Loka" live, commercial-free and in standard or high definition on Dec. 31, 6:30PM, subscribe now and watch this for only P99. Call 4180000 or visit mysky.com.ph/boxingppv to subscribe.

For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or visit www.abscbnpr.com.

By: JENG On 12/28/2018 11:52:00 AM

MMFF 2018 Awards Winners

Here is the complete list of winners in the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2018:

Best Director: Joel Lamangan, "Rainbow's Sunset"
Best Float: "Jack Em Popoy: The Puliscredibles"
Best Short Student Film: "Kasilyas" - Bulacan State University
Best Child Performer: Phoebe Villamor, "Aurora"
Best Production Design: "Rainbow's Sunset"
Best Visual Effects: "Aurora"
Best Sound Design: "Aurora"
Best Musical Score: "One Great Love"
Best Original Theme Song: "Sa'yo Na" from "Rainbow's Sunset"
Best Editing: "Jack Em Popoy: The Puliscredibles"
Best Cinematography: "Aurora"
Best Screenplay: "Rainbow's Sunset"
FPJ Memorial Award: "Jack Em Popoy: The Puliscredibles"
Stars of the Night : Jericho Rosales ("The Girl in the Orange Dress"), Anne Curtis ("Aurora")
Gatpuno Antonio J. Villegas Cultural Award: "Rainbow's Sunset"
Best Supporting Actor: Tony Mabesa, "Rainbow's Sunset"
Best Supporting Actress: Aiko Melendez," Rainbow's Sunset"
Special Jury Prize: Max Collins, "Rainbow Sunset"
Special Jury Prize: Eddie Garcia, "Rainbow Sunset"
Third Best Picture: "One Great Love"
Second Best Picture: "Aurora"
Best Picture: "Rainbow Sunset"
Best Actor: Dennis Trillo, "One Great Love"
Best Actres : Gloria Romero, "Rainbow's Sunset"

By: JENG On 12/28/2018 11:45:00 AM

December 21, 2018

TFC Welcomes Newly Reopened Philippine Consulate General in Houston, Texas

A full quarter of a century since it closed, the Philippine Consulate General in Houston, Texas reopened this year to provide the consular needs of the fast-growing Filipino population in Texas and south central U.S. It is now serving some 179,000 Filipinos in the states under its jurisdiction, namely, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas, the second largest state next to Alaska in the U.S. Just to show scope, Texas alone is about two times bigger than the Philippines in land size.

ABS-CBN North and Latin America, through its Sales and Distribution team under Ray Olano, assigned Houston-based Territory Account Sales Head for Midwest Joy Espinosa to reach out to the new consular team under Consul General General Jerrill Santos and offer assistance through TFC services. An IPTV demo unit was set up at the Consulate. Consul General Santos thanked ABS-CBN TFC for the warm welcome and support.

Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter S. Cayetano had previously said that “the reopening of our Consulate General in Houston is consistent with the priorities laid down by President (Rodrigo) Duterte for us to bring our services closer to Filipinos overseas.”

“Through our Consulate General, we will endeavor to serve all Filipinos living on this side of the United States,” Secretary Cayetano said.

By: JENG On 12/21/2018 06:50:00 PM

"Aquaman" Rules the International Box-Office, Breaks Record for Biggest December Opening Weekend Ever for a Foreign Title

Warner Bros. Pictures’ first-ever Aquaman standalone feature is making huge waves at the box office, coming in at #1 internationally for the second week in a row, and taking in an impressive Php 230.4-million in its opening weekend in the Philippines.

The epic action adventure, directed by James Wan and starring Jason Momoa in the title role, opened on approximately 643 screens on December 12, with sold-out shows and fans lining up to be among the first to see the film. The opening weekend marked the All-Time Biggest December Opening Weekend for a Foreign Title, surpassing 2015’s Star Wars: The Force Awakens with Php 188-million.

Other notable records broken are the All-Time Biggest Opening Weekend for a James Wan Film, outgrossing 2015’s Fast & Furious 7 with Php 98-million; and the year’s Biggest Opening Weekend for a Warner Bros. Title (beating last November’s Php 109.5-million gross of Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.)

Francis Soliven, General Manager of Warner Bros. Philippines, stated, “This weekend’s results prove that Aquaman is king of the box office as well as the seven seas. We are thrilled with these extraordinary numbers, and equally excited to see audiences comprised of movie fans, DC aficionados, and families filling the cinemas this holiday season. We anticipate strong word of mouth will carry these terrific results well into the New Year.”

From Warner Bros. Pictures and director James Wan comes Aquaman, the origin story of half-surface dweller, half-Atlantean Arthur Curry that takes him on the journey of his lifetime - one that will not only force him to face who he really is, but to discover if he is worthy of who he was born to be…a king. The action-packed adventure spans the vast, visually breathtaking underwater world of the seven seas, and stars Jason Momoa in the title role.

The film also stars Amber Heard as Mera, a fierce warrior and Aquaman’s ally throughout his journey; Oscar nominee Willem Dafoe (“The Florida Project”) as Vulko, council to the Atlantean throne; Patrick Wilson as Orm, the present King of Atlantis; Dolph Lundgren as Nereus, King of the Atlantean tribe Xebel; Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as the revenge-seeking Black Manta; and Oscar winner Nicole Kidman (“The Hours”) as Arthur’s mom, Atlanna. Also featured are Ludi Lin as Captain Murk, an Atlantean Commando, and Temuera Morrison as Arthur’s dad, Tom Curry.

Wan directed from a screenplay by David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick and Will Beall, story by Geoff Johns & James Wan and Will Beall, based on characters created by Paul Norris and Mort Weisinger for DC. The film was produced by Peter Safran and Rob Cowan, with Deborah Snyder, Zack Snyder, Jon Berg, Geoff Johns and Walter Hamada serving as executive producers.

Wan’s team behind the scenes included such frequent collaborators as Oscar-nominated director of photography Don Burgess (“Forrest Gump”), Wan’s five-time editor Kirk Morri, production designer Bill Brzeski, and visual effects supervisor Kelvin McIlwain. They were joined by costume designer Kym Barrett and composer Rupert Gregson-Williams.

Warner Bros. Pictures Presents a Peter Safran Production, a James Wan Film, Aquaman. The film is being released worldwide in 2D, 3D, 4D, and ScreenX in select theatres, and in large screen formats, including Dolby Cinema and IMAX, by Warner Bros. Pictures.

By: JENG On 12/21/2018 06:20:00 PM

GSK Philippines Celebrates 9 Years of "Orange Day Volunteer Program" in the Philippines by Visiting 16 Gawad Kalinga and 2 Smile Train Sites Nationwide

Volunteerism involves a person or a group of people participating in projects that are beneficial to the community’s wellbeing. Volunteerism is the spirit behind GSK’s Orange Day, when employees get one paid day off to volunteer at a non-profit organization of their choice.

On November 23, 400 employees of GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) Philippines visited 16 Gawad Kalinga sites and two Smile Train partner institutions in the country, including Antipolo in Rizal, Sagay in Negros Occidental, Naga in Camarines Sur, Quezon Province, Laguna, Pasig-San Rose, Muntinlupa, Pasig, Sta. Mesa, Bataan, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Caloocan, Davao, Gen. Santos, La Union and Las Pinas.

“We encourage our employees in GSK to volunteer and contribute to our local communities. It helps our employees gain new experiences and skills, creating a deeper understanding of patient needs. Employees come back with a different view and serve as change agents in GSK,” said Sriram Jambunathan, General Manager for GSK Philippines Pharmaceuticals.

All GSK employees are entitled to employee volunteering, which means they can take one paid day off per year to pursue an authorized charity activity. Although there are multiple ways of volunteering at GSK, Orange Day is a key flagship program launched in 2009.

The company believes that by volunteering, employees are challenged to think differently, develop leadership skills, and heighten cultural agility. Further, GSK believes that they can also be instruments in helping create positive, sustainable change for non-profit partners, and the communities they serve; and that through their experiences, they bring fresh ideas and new energy back to the company.

“One day of volunteering can have impact on the health and well-being of local communities where we operate. As well as this, volunteering is also a great way to demonstrate and live our values outside of the organization,” said Ritesh Pandey, General Manager for GSK Philippines Consumer Healthcare.

GSK Values are Patient Focus, Integrity, Respect for People, Transparency.

“We believe that we can do good and do good business at the same time, embedding ‘responsible business’ in the core of our operations, the patients at the heart of everything we do. GSK will not be GSK without Orange Day,” said Sarabjit Paul, Site Director for GSK Manufacturing Plant in Philippines.

As GSK medical representative Maan Bacila puts it, Orange Day serves as reminder of how blessed employees are to be part of the company, “We are given a chance to share our blessings of love and abundance by inspiring people to do more, feel better, thus live longer, through improving and working on our current situations, no matter, how hard or challenging it may be.”

Leah Inigo, also a GSK medical representative, shared, “From the bottom of my heart, I felt fulfilment because as we are all focusing to deliver business performance this 2018, we pause for a while to share our blessings with others, not only material things but also our precious time, and warm hugs, and contagious smiles.”

This year, GSK commemorates its 50th year in the Philippines, committing to continue helping Filipinos do more, feel better, live longer.

By: JENG On 12/21/2018 06:16:00 PM

Feel the Luxury at Director’s Club Cinema - The Podium

Be treated with a unique kind of comfort and luxury at Director’s Club by SM Cinema at The Podium, its newest location.

Situated at the business district of Ortigas, Director’s Club Cinema The Podium will surely be a favorite hang-out spot for those who want to unwind while watching much-awaited blockbusters.

Director’s Club Cinema The Podium offers a unique cinematic experience through extraordinary facilities and premium services that take movie watching to the next level.

Be in charge at Director’s Club Cinema The Podium as comfortable leather recliner seats easily adjust and favorite Snacktime treats are just push of a button away through the in-house butler service.

Make movie nights more exciting in any of the three (3) Director’s Club Cinemas, each with a 48-seating capacity, at The Podium.

Utilizing the latest technology in digital surround sound and quality projection and screen, this cinematic experience is sure to be a visual and sensory treat!

Enjoy the latest blockbusters at SM Cinema’s latest offering at Director’s Club Cinema The Podium.

Book your tickets through the website, www.smcinema.com or download the SM Cinema mobile app. You may also follow /SMCinema on Facebook and @SM_Cinema on Instagram for updates!

By: JENG On 12/21/2018 06:05:00 PM

5 Ways to Celebrate Family Christmas Inside BGC's Play City

After the holiday rush at work and school, it’s finally time to spend precious moments with our greatest love - our family. Give the gift of wonderful memories to our children by taking them to KidZania Manila, the premier play city where the whole family can bond over its #YuleBeTogether themed activities.

Here are five ways to celebrate the Family Christmas at KidZania Manila:

1.    Take the Christmas Family Challenge.

The main square will be filled with exciting challenges for the whole family as they are called to help keep the Christmas spirit strong, and earn KidZos in return. These activities include delivering gifts, sorting letters, and arranging logs. Join the fun from December 23 to January 1.

2.    Decorate for the holidays at the Christmas corner.

Let the kids take on the Yuletide cheer at the Christmas corner, where they can color DIY themed placements or create ornaments. At the end of the activity, they can take home their masterpieces for the whole family to enjoy or complete at home together.

3.    Play with your mom or dad inside selected establishments.

No better way to teach young kids work values than by working together with them and sharing them your thoughts, memories, and learnings. Take on the role-play challenge at the Acting Academy, tour the Marine Research Lab together, and explore the Disaster Preparedness Training Center to train them early on facing emergencies.

4.    Play and learn through the city challenges.

Take the adventure in Nido 3+/5+ City Challenge with your little ones. Children ages four to six years old may join the Play, Learn, and Let go challenges with their parents in featured Nido establishments until December 31.

5.    Jumpstart your kids’ savings.

It’s the perfect time of the year to start teaching the kids how to save, especially since they will get their ‘pamasko’ from their godparents. Check out the BPI Jumpstart^ launch from December 18 to 22 and avail of the P100 deposit to open a BPI Jumpstart^ Savings Account.

Celebrate #FamilyIsLove at KidZania Manila this Christmas while leaving skills and values that go a long way.

For more details, visit manila.kidzania.com or follow the Play City’s social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram) @kidzaniamanila.

By: JENG On 12/21/2018 06:00:00 PM

JC Santos, Bela Padilla and Revilla Brothers Star in Pay-Per-View Offers from Sky

Fresh 2018 movies starring JC Santos and Bela Padilla, “The Day After Valentine’s Day,” and the Revilla brothers’ “Tres” lead the exciting line-up of pay-per-view offerings that are perfect for a holiday movie marathon this December.

After the highly talked about 2017 box-office movie “100 Tula Para Kay Stella,” Bela and JC reunite with director Jason Paul Laxamana in “The Day After Valentine’s Day.”

This movie was one of the entries in the 2018 Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino and tells the story of moving on from heartbreak. Lani (Bela) is a simple girl who likes “broken things” and Baybayin, the Filipino ancient alphabetic writing system. She stumbles upon Kai (JC), who is suffering from a heartbreak, and tries to help him move on as they spend Valentine’s Day together.

Other movie treats to enjoy include “Single Single: Love is not Enough,” “Harry and Patty,” “Petmalu,” “Unli Life,” and “The Hopeful Romantic.”

To avail of this movie pack, subscribe to SKY Movies Pay-Per-View for only P30 for a 5-day access. Call 418 0000 or visit mysky.com.ph/moviesppv or text MOVIESPPV to 23662 to subscribe.

Giving viewers a dose of adrenaline rush, meanwhile are the Revilla brothers, Jolo, Luigi, and Bryan as they band together for the first time in the action trilogy movie, “Tres,” a timely movie that revolves around the high-stakes world of anti-drug law enforcement, drug traffickers, and drug users.

According to Jolo, “Tres” is only the first of the Revilla brothers’ joint projects as they plan to make more action and fantasy films in the near future. This movie also serves as the comeback film of Imus productions which produced the films of Jolo’s grandfather, “Nardong Putik,” “Pepeng Agimat” and “Ang Panday.”

Also in the Star Cinema on SKYcable Pay-Per-View bundle are “K9,” “Kasunduan,” “Riding In Tandem,” “Corpus Delicti,” “We Will Die Tonight,” and Pinoy Pride 45.

The Star Cinema movie pack offer is available until January 4 for only P30 for a 5-day access. SKYcable subscribers can also access these movies from the comfort of their home or on any device anytime, anywhere via SKY on Demand. To subscribe, call 418-0000 or your local SKY office, visit www.mysky.com.ph/starcinemappv or just text STARCINEMAPPV to 23662.

By: JENG On 12/21/2018 05:26:00 PM

#TeamLie Face #TeamJelai in PBB Otso Concert

Pinoy Big Brother Otso housemates and Camp Star Hunt Star Dreamers join forces for a special concert tomorrow, December 21 inside the PBB house, after Home Sweetie Home.

The concert will feature performances from the teams of Jelay and Lie.

Jelay will be joined by Rhys, Karina, Sansan, Krist, Lienel, Kurt and Aljon. Together, they will face the team of Lie, which includes Missy, Reign, Seth, Kaori, Achilles, Gian and Gabby.

What exciting performances have they prepared? Who will emerge as the winning team? And, will they win this week's challenge of having 888,888 views on Facebook during the concert?

Find out tomorrow on Pinoy Big Brother Otso, after Home Sweetie Home, only on ABS-CBN.

By: JENG On 12/21/2018 05:24:00 PM

December 17, 2018

Catriona Gray Wins Miss Universe 2018 Crown

Catriona Gray, the 24-year-old Filipino-Australian beauty from Bicol, Philippines was crowned Miss Universe on Monday, December 17, at the Impact Arena, Thailand.

During the final question, Catriona was asked "What is the most important lesson you've learned in your life and how would you apply it to your time as Miss Universe?"

She replied: "I work a lot in the slums of Tondo, Manila and the life there is... it's poor and very sad. And I've always taught myself to look for the beauty of it, to look for beauty in the faces of the children and to be grateful. And I would bring this aspect as a Miss Universe, to see situations with a silver lining, and to assess where I could give something, where I could provide something as a spokesperson. If I could teach also people to be grateful, we could have an amazing world where negativity could not grow and foster, and children would have a smile on their faces. Thank you."

Tamaryn Green of South Africa was first runner-up followed by Miss Venezuela.

By: JENG On 12/17/2018 11:14:00 AM

December 16, 2018

Nicolas Cage is Spider-Man Noir in Acclaimed “Spider-Verse” Film

The character of Spider-Man Noir is finally in a Spider-Man film.

In the new animated film Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, Oscar®-winning actor Nicolas Cage (Moonstruck, Leaving Las Vegas, Adaptation) voices the role of Spider-Man Noir. "He is from a dimension that is literally black and white," explains Cage. "Spider-Man Noir is hard boiled, he's probably the edgiest of the Spider-Men — think Raymond Chandler, Paul Cain, those great old detective novels. He's a 1933-era private eye and he's fighting Nazis, so he's a real hero."

The actor says he enjoyed voicing Spider-Man Noir because the directors allowed him to have fun with the role and to pay homage to some of his favorite classic actors, such as Humphrey Bogart and James Cagney. He explains, "I felt like we were doing something new and something original with the character. In addition, the movie is really about positive qualities like being heroes and doing the right thing for the community. It's also great for families, because everyone is represented. I can also tell you it has a terrific sense of humor."

Cage says to him Spider-Man is one of the most iconic comic-book characters and the ultimate superhero. "He is the most highly watchable action character with a great sense of humor. I think Stan Lee also felt that Spider-Man is one of his greatest achievements. And it's no secret that I like to play with different sources. It was fun to go back in time and pull back a little of that Humphrey Bogart essence. I think it will be interesting for young people because they may watch the movie and want to learn more about this Humphrey Bogart character—let me check out his movie Casablanca and find out! So, I think there's something in this for everyone, for the adults who like the old movies like I do, and also for the kids or the young people who will want to learn more about them."

Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the creative minds behind The Lego Movie and 21 Jump Street, bring their unique talents to a fresh vision of a different Spider-Man Universe, with a groundbreaking visual style that's the first of its kind. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse introduces Brooklyn teen Miles Morales (Shameik Moore), and the limitless possibilities of the Spider-Verse, where more than one can wear the mask. Directed by Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey, and Rodney Rothman, the screenplay is by Phil Lord. The film is produced, in association with Marvel, by Avi Arad, Amy Pascal, Phil Lord, Christopher Miller, and Christina Steinberg.

Now playing in Philippine cinemas nationwide, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.

By: JENG On 12/16/2018 10:21:00 PM

Southeast Asia’s First IMAX with Laser Now at Vista Cinemas’ Evia Lifestyle Center , Vista Mall in Alabang

Outdating existing cinema experience currently available in the country, Vista Cinemas introduces an incredibly groundbreaking movie technology as it houses Southeast Asia's first IMAX with Laser theatre in Evia Lifestyle Center Mall in Alabang.

Launched last November 20, 2018, Vista Cinemas' IMAX with Laser cinema now brings the audience a notch higher with its next-generation technology that delivers stunning images and heart-pounding audio for an unparalleled immersive cinematic experience. Capturing true reality projected on one of the world's largest screens, the experience is set apart by its next-generation 4K laser projection system which features a new optical engine and a suite of propriety IMAX technologies that deliver increased resolution, sharper and brighter images, deeper contrast as well as the most distinct, exotic colors ever available on-screen.

Defying the standards in immersive entertainment, Vista Cinemas' IMAX with Laser theatre is consistent with its thrust to bring only the best experiences to its customers aimed to transport audiences into today's most anticipated blockbusters with heightened realism that draws the audience into the movie and out from his own world.

The IMAX with Laser technology has been designed from the ground-up exclusively for IMAX screens that delivers breathtaking images and makes us of IMAX's 12-channel sound technology for an even greater dynamic range giving the ultimate in audio immersion.

Because the audience deserve more than just a movie, get ready to experience a world of difference at Vista Cinemas' Evia Lifestyle Mall IMAX with Laser at Evia Lifestyle Center.

Visit Vista social media pages at

www.facebook.com/vistacinemas

www.facebook.com/evialifestylecenter

www.vistacinemas.com.ph

By: JENG On 12/16/2018 10:06:00 PM

December 11, 2018

TNT Unveils SurfSaya Promos with More Data to Enjoy this Christmas

This Christmas, it's more fun and enjoyable when you have enough data to connect with loved ones and enjoy all your favorite websites and apps on your phone.

Now, there's a more fun and affordable way to stay online as TNT introduced its new SurfSaya promos, which come with a more enjoyable combination of data, calls, and texts to cover all your communication needs especially this holiday season.

More enjoyable combination of data, calls, texts

TNT offers SurfSaya 30, which comes with 300MB open access data; plus 100MB per day for Facebook and Messenger; unlicalls to TNT, Smart, and Sun; and unlitexts to all networks for three days for only Php30.

TNT subscribers can also enjoy SurfSaya 20, which comes with 100MB open access data, plus 100MB per day for Facebook and Messenger, unlicalls to TNT, Smart, and Sun; and unlitexts to all networks for two days, for only Php20.

For a much bigger online experience, TNT offers SurfSaya 99, which comes with 1.5GB open access data, plus 100MB per day for Facebook and Messenger; unlicalls to TNT, Smart, and Sun; and unlitexts to all networks valid for 7 days for only Php99.

To register, simply dial *121# and choose SURFSAYA.

Enjoy online fun with PH's fastest LTE network

With TNT SurfSaya promos, you have everything you need to stay updated, connected and entertained whenever, wherever this Christmas season.

With TNT SurfSaya, you can share your fun Christmas celebrations with friends and loved ones on Facebook: You can send holiday greetings on Messenger, post your funny Christmas moments on Facebook Stories, scroll through your newsfeed for the latest get-togethers with friends, and even share your fondest Christmas memories on your timeline.

Into mobile gaming? With TNT SurfSaya, you can also play your favorite mobile games like Mobile Legends with friends over the holiday season. For more fun moments with the family, you can also use your data to look for new Noche Buena recipes to cook together, or search online for new creative and budget-friendly projects you can give to loved ones.

TNT subscribers can enjoy Surf Saya promos powered by Smart's LTE network, the country's fastest LTE network as recognized by industry experts Ookla and OpenSignal.

To find out more about TNT's latest promos, follow TNT on Facebook (www.facebook.com/TNTph) and Instagram @tntph.

By: JENG On 12/11/2018 06:24:00 PM