LG Philippines Initiates LG Library on the Go

Wednesday, July 31, 2024



Went to this quaint little school nestled in the heart of Nagcarlan Laguna this morning to celebrate what could be a great start for kids to learn reading. Folks from LG Philippines is in town as they roll out their "LG LIBRARY ON THE GO", aimed to benefit the population of Manaol Elementary School. This is part of the CSR activities called LG Ambassador Challenge -100 Days of Miracles which they put up with representatives of LG Electronics and their beneficiary, Korean Food for the Hungry International.

This was sparked by a wish from LG Ambassador Charlene Aguilar who wanted to have a transport with books on it. This will have a capability to go to other places as well so it could serve even more children in this side of the world. The event was attended by LG Philippines Managing Director Nakhyun Seong, LG Philippines Head of Corporate Marketing Ana Marie Salapantan and LG Philippines Marketing Communications Manager Anthony George Constantino. It was covered by a few media outlets, and bloggers too.





LG Philippines Managing Director Nakhyun Seong says "I am happy to meet you today, my simple message is READ A BOOK. Make it a habit to do it so you can have a bright future. Even if it takes you one book every month, it'll make your dreams come true! I am so happy to see the kids here, they are so energetic!"

Take a look at this new Life's Good Mobile Library!









The 7 Barangays is just the start and they plan to do more in the next few years. In the past they have been doing community based projects and this year they are concentrating on often overlooked needs which is EDUCATION. They also have eye checkup and glasses for the kids courtesy of Monloy this morning. 






It was touching to see the kids get excited about the books they are about to read plus the reading/storytelling sessions they prepared for them. These are the times where you can really say, Life's Good!






COW

SB19, Sandara Park, G22 Headline Acer Day 2024

Tuesday, July 30, 2024


 


Another year, another installment of ACER DAY!

Today we just got word that ACER day is happening this coming August 4, 2024. It will be held at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City and the stars coming are phenomenal!

Since it's 2024, everything will be going with the theme of AI, but theirs is kinda quirky as they call it "AI'm Limitless", which means YOU have the power to push your limits and see what kind of products, PC's will fit your lifestyle.

Acer Ambassadors will be in full force which means performances from well loved PPOP Kings SB19, the national krungkrung Sandara Park and G22 are expected to do several numbers. Add to that, Rico Blanco, Ebe Dancel, TJ Monterde, and Cup of Joe,

Want a surprise? SB19 and G22 will be telling you more about "Acer U: Charged to Lead" Back to School Promo where you can get discounts on the latest laptops, Acer home devices, and even gear from Under Armour as a freebie (depends on purchase and will be given GC's). It can range from 10-14K, and must be registered at warranty.acer.com.ph to claim it. If you want to know more about how you can take advantage of the discounts, visit their social channels and official website. You can get information about the concert there too.

See you there! I'll be covering it!


COW

Several Actors Shine on GMA's "PULANG ARAW"

I've been trying so hard to keep mum about this series, I'm talking about GMA's biggest series yet, "Pulang Araw".

See, I think I've heard about it a few years ago and thought that it was going to be shelved. I'm so glad to be proven wrong today as it does the world TV premiere, right after it's launch through Netflix a couple weeks ago. 

When I heard of the story, I really felt how quite promising it would be. Delving in history, the war, the Japanese, and the personal/family complications... there's just a lot of things you can pull off from that. 

Here's a video of the red carpet event:


Then there's the artists portraying the role. Coming from the very successful "Maria Clara at Ibarra", GMA wants a continuation of the #BarDa pairing so they got David Licauco and Barbie Forteza in this show. Then a little about 10 years ago, they already told Alden Richards about it. This is also the first time he is being paired with Sanya Lopez, so there's a lot to see where their stories would go.

 

The first episode I could say had no SHORTCHANGING in the acting department. Since this is a backgrounder, the young versions of these four gigantic stars of GMA would take the spotlight. Aside from them, this is the time you'll notice how underrated RHIAN RAMOS is as she plays the mother of Barbie and Alden's characters (Adelina, Eduardo). Rhian Ramos as the mother of young Alden and Barbie is EXCEPTIONAL. She's feisty, didn't hold back raising arms for her son and daughter who got beat up, teased and bullied by other kids. She's a gem in this series albeit short-lived, it was enough to showcase who she IS as an actress. I'd give her a trophy today just for that, and I'm not even joking.

Aside from Rhian who stole the show (first episode), another person decided to tell us during the preview that he's a force to reckon with. His name is Aidan Veneracion, whom I often see in workshops under Ms. Ana Feleo (with or without reason, he comes voluntarily). Albeit new to the business as a Sparkle Teen, he's really outstanding in the first salvo. Another star is Cassy Lavarias who played the young Barbie Forteza. She has this innate charm to pull you in on her struggles. She cries like a legendary actress, but she's still a child... so imagine the things she can do in a few years. Heck, she'll give a lot of veterans a run for their money. She's that good. They could be the reason you'll love PULANG ARAW on the first episode, and  follow these individual stories through.

Here's the press conference on video, please enjoy!

 Here are some of the other stars to join the show!

See, this is not normal. I could just have seen the first episode to be just another episode, but no. PULANG ARAW deserves the attention NOW and in the next few episodes. The sweetness of relationships, friendships, and nationalism, mixed with the star power of the lead stars they've managed to put together in one show, how can you not love a story like this?! 

You need to watch the show, PULANG ARAW is now streaming on Netflix. The episodes will be out early in the platform, a few days before the one shown on TV and GMA subsidiaries. You don't need to deeply think about the story, you just have to have the heart to love it just like what they did to the people in their lives and this story. Imagine if it's going to be Alden, Barbie, David and Sanya's turn, they actually were phenomenal in the short instances they appeared in the first episode (Alden made the war scenes in the forest quite a visual feast!)

Make sure you watch it, because as far as I'm concerned, it's one WELL MADE series that deserves to be seen. It's realistic, excellent graphics (especially the planes during the war), funny in some places, and you'll love how.. in a way, shape or form, impress you even if you don't like it. It's that impressive!


COW

Huge Changes at Tagaytay Highlands: A Different Vision



Tagaytay Highlands hold a special part in my heart because of the multitude of things that I've done with family there over the years. Back then, it was quite exclusive, privately accessible, with the country's who's who owning a plot or two.

This has CHANGED over the decade, utilizing every morsel of real estate in the area means development of properties, and the magic of living in several townships this 2024. This time, they put value in transforming communities. With focus on modern community living, each residence are well planned, managed, brought to this decade by establishing mixed use properties without taking the charm and exclusivity of it.

Now it's got the Highlands, the Midlands, Midlands West, Greenlands and perhaps more soon. This place was built on a VISION, one that has been delicately designed before things move inside the estate. From usual country home residences, it now has integrated structures that can also be used for leisure, recreation, commercial use, while maintaining vibrant and sustainable in all areas.

This is one of the reasons why it's thriving, not letting new conveniences take away what's already good and existing in the property. Adding only the things that can harmoniously blend with the needs and wants of people living here. By far, it is still one of the most sought after properties in the country. It's paradise, especially for those who want to live in the high areas. It's like having a piece of a cold mountain elsewhere in the world, but living in a tropical country, and people you love.

The place still has open spaces, where a huge part gets dedicated for it. Parts of it also see the world famous Taal Lake/Volcano, while others are for the running mountains too. This spans around 1500 hectares, where you can also enjoy outdoor activities. There are tons of flora and fauna, plus see birds in a sanctuary. This is proof that it can be done, the combination of facilities you need, but with all the things you love with nature.  

This place is managed by Highlands Prime, Inc., a subsidiary of real estate giant SM Prime Holdings. It's just one of the ton of world class properties they do on a weekend (I kid). Heard they're also raring to do a few more projects in the pipeline like Highlands Residences, Trealva, Primrose Parks, Horizon Terraces Garden Villas Scottsdale, and more soon. If this looks appealing, take a bit of your time and message them at facebook.com/Tagaytayhighlands so you can stop dreaming, and start doing. Else, you may visit tagaytayhighlands.com and get the answers you need.


COW

Queens Honoring Queens at the Life Strong Hairfix Event



It was a time to feel beautiful and confident as hair color brand Life Strong Hairfix held their "Your Crown, Your Story" event at Luxent Hotel in Quezon City. Tons of Moms, women of all ages took time out and got free hairstyling, played games and won prizes courtesy of Hairfix.

COO of Lifestong Marketing Margaret Lee says "Hairstyling, treatments, DIY, with salon quality products is now possible because of Hairfix. It is now available nationwide, our best selling colorant is now number 1 in the market and the convenience you get with these products at home is priceless. You can now transform your hair with 18 colors to choose from, healthier hair from root to tip, all from Hairfix! It's time you take care of your crown and tell your story."

Rabiya Mateo is the current brand ambassador and she says "When I heard they were tapping me about Hairfix, I was so happy because I am a user. It's not only a great product, but very affordable too. I love the Light Brown color, and am raring to use the bold ones soon. For those who haven't tried it, it's time you take care of your hair and look good again especially now since they also have a promo of buy one take one. Give an hour or two to do simple things to look good and feel good so you radiate, and your family will feel it too."

Miss Eco Teen Philippines 2023 Francine Reyes and Miss World Philippines 2021 Tracy Maureen Perez also graced the event and shared really encouraging.. and empowering words to the Moms who were there. They also made sure they know their worth, and how they envy their resilience in raising their respective families and continue to help and enjoy their community. They also shared some of their favorite Hairfix products, of some, they have been using even before they were endorsing the product. Here's the event on video, please be kind to the photographers who were going in front (blocking your view) while we were recording this bit. :)
 
 

I was really touched when they showed 4 lucky Moms who they spoiled shopping and done with a makeover using the latest products from Hairfix. I personally like the hair colors because of the variety and how affordable it is. Let me take this bit to thank the men and women behind Life Strong who invited us to witness that. Rabiya, Tracy and Francine went up on stage and crowned them right after the reveal. That was really a touching moment. 
 
Now it's your turn to get your crown, and make that story! Congratulations Hairfix!


COW

Crazy Lines at HONOR 200 5G's First Day Out!

Sunday, July 28, 2024

 


Today is the first day of HONOR Philippines selling their best ever HONOR 200 5G and the HONOR 200 5G Pro. These two devices have been heavily awaited by the public especially since it comes with the JBL Soundgear Frames, a promo given to those who would avail of it on pre-order. It costs 9,500 pesos so it's a really BIG deal to get them this early.

We checked out their MarketMarket! stores this afternoon to see how they fare, and by the looks of it, crowds were already lining up since morning, a pretty good sign of what's about to come in the next few days for the phone brand.

Check out the highlights on this reel I made during the event :)




The same thing happened in other stores across the Philippines, which makes sense because this HONOR 200 5G that I've been using for a couple of weeks now, actually does good portraits which is one of the selling points of this phone. Surely, the AI function of it will improve in the next few days/weeks. Imagine the capabilities of removing things from images without the need of expensive software, all done on the phone.

The HONOR 200 5G retails for only Php 24,999 while the HONOR 200 5G Pro is priced at Php 29,999. You can also purchase it via Home Credit so it'll be lighter monthly. Cheers to HONOR Philippines!


COW

JENNYLYN MERCADO is the face of Beautéderm's CRISTAUX Threemendous Trio Serum Line

Sunday, July 21, 2024


When you hear the name Jennylyn Mercado, you think of an actress who's got everything you want in one. She's the iconic "bhe", who's very kind, very down to earth, a mother, and wife to Dennis Trillo. It's been a while since we've seen her, but nothing seems to have changed. She's still the same beautiful woman we've adored since she won Starstruck.

Today was a special day, so Beautéderm threw her a welcome party. This is the day that they have also announced that she is the brand ambassador for the new CRISTAUX Three-mendous Trio. A line of serums meant to take care of the ravages of time, and day to day care for unblemished skin. One is the Skin Energizing Vitamin C, ZERUM Hydra Beauty Skin Brightening Serum (with Zinc), and my personal favorite the RETINOL Skin Repair Serum.

Beautéderm CEO Ms. Rei Tan and Jennylyn have been talking quite a lot through messages, but have never actually met in person. In the photoshoot for this campaign, they were finally able to do that.



Jennylyn says "When I met her, she was very nice, very humble, inspiring and I was very happy that this pushed through. We had to go through hurdles because when initial talks happened, I was pregnant and just gave birth. There were so many times we wanted to do this, but now it happened. She really took good care of me, she's a different person, it's in her nature to ask if I'm comfortable or I'm okay. She also asked if I was full, if the team was full, I was so happy to learn that I was in the right place."

She adds "When I got the serums at home, I immediately wanted to use it because I don't endorse anything that I don't personally use. I had to put it in my existing skin care regimen. I have very sensitive skin, and in fairness, I ended up with glowing skin. I use the Vitamin C Serum with facial wash and moisturizer. I use the Hydra Serum at night, but just do the retinol as needed. I usually go outdoors and ride motorcycles. I am exposed to the elements, and the sun. I sometimes suffer sun spots and pigmentation, I use the retinol for it including the age spots. I'm not young anymore so I do have fine lines and this takes care of that."

Ms. Rei Anicoche-Tan remarks "If you're a Beautéderm baby, there's something in common about us.. there's a glow. Even with light makeup, you can see that in our endorsers. Jen will be the face of all of our facial products, but we are promoting this new line. You can see this being used by me, and our endorsers. We only get people who love and know about the products, and she's the perfect one to represent that. I'm very proud of our ambassadors, even the guys, we just don't get endorsers just because of face value because consumers are smart now. They know if they use the product and if they want to emulate, they've got Beautéderm behind them. They believe and buy because of that." 

Here's the rest of the event on video, please enjoy!

Beautéderm wants you to age less and glow more with the new THREE-mendous Trio. Now is the time to add serums in your existing skincare routine especially if you feel like you are aging a bit. Not when it's too late!

Congratulations Jen! Thank you Ms. Rei for always having us in your events... and of course, taking care of our skin! I love your BEAU and new CRISTAUX line, plus that lovely detangle Brush which I use on a daily basis! 



COW

Zubiri Points Out What Should Be Addressed in Upcoming SONA


The SONA or State of the Nation Address will be happening on July 22nd. This is the third time the President is doing it. Before that, Senator Zubiri laid a few concerns of Filipinos that should be discussed, which he hopes the President would do in his term.

He says "The country could have been an upper middle income economy by year 2028, but this has been dampened by high inflation. The high price of rice, usual commodities affects the ordinary working class. It is essential that the growth seen with the GDP translates into good things in the daily lives of Pinoys. He should also address the minimum wage, increase it. Maybe a new wage law, acted upon, and not just sit in the house of representatives. Aside from the wage hike, food security should be prioritized at this time."

These are just some of the things he deem important to be addressed at the upcoming SONA. The former Senate President has been working hard in making sure his peers at the Senate do the same for the development of the country. The SONA is the best platform to not just show what he has done, but what plans he have to make sure that all the gains he has done in the past year would continue in the future.

COW

ANDREA BRILLANTES Takes TWO with DEAR FACE


Your lovely Blythe showed up for media and corporate executives as she gets additional years as the face of Dear Face Beauty Melon Milk.




It was held at Lore Manila, served food by Chef Tatung. The feeling was so festive as the high selling Beauty Milk Melon Milk was laid on installations depicting the Hamptons. During the event, it was announced that she will be continuing her contract for an additional 2 years, which we think is well deserved. Andrea has been really one hardworking woman in terms of promoting the drink on her socials, she also takes the time to talk about it with friends, family, her fans, and followers.

Founder and CEO Ms. Jonah says "We wanted to renew our partnership with Andrea even if our initial contract hasn't ended because we have a genuine bond with Blythe. She is also an effective endorser, one that converts sales. She's the real thing."

No wonder she's been renewed for 2 more years. An effective endorser would really take the brand to places they've never been. She's lovely, and loves the product sincerely even before she was the endorser for this brand. Congratulations Andrea! You've taken a courageous step with Dear Face Beauty Milk Melon, and have done so much as a friend and endorser.

COW

Affordable Coffee IS Possible with Great Taste Dark Latte

Saturday, July 20, 2024


I've been a fan of coffee since I've had it with rice. No joke lol.

These days, I'd say I love the convenience of just getting them off the shelf and taking it ultra cold from the refrigerator before I do something at work. Surely, everyone would have had a habit of doing that if it wasn't super expensive because as you know, the ones out in the market are usually pricey.

Great Taste knows you need coffee when you need it. So at this day and age, they're giving you the options you deserve. Dark Latte for flavor, and a price that you wouldn't resist, because this bottle of Great Taste only costs Php 20.

This is inspired by cold brew, and has a strong but creamy flavor. It also is very handy, easy to put in the fridge, could be a better daily drink. Go check out Great Taste's social channels to know more about it. I've tried this from a convenience store and loved it. It's your turn!


COW

HONOR 200 5G Excels in Portraits, AI Functions to be Added Soon


Honor Philippines just launched their newest phones today, the HONOR 200 5G and the HONOR 200 Pro 5G.

The phone boasts of a camera that has been worked on by Paris based Harcourt Studio, who specializes in portraits. Now it's actually easier to take quality shots with this AI Portrait Master. They've been doing this since 1934, so they certainly know what they are talking about.

This partnership is backed up by real engineering, and experience of shooting actors. We did the same shoot with equally talented photographer Borgy Angeles a few weeks ago, and with a Harcourt Studio filter, you can expect dramatic results.


SMART OMEGA Empress takes on female ML gaming to the next level by using HONOR 200 phones in their games, promising eSports athletes!



JBL is making sure you get the best audio experience by throwing in a Php 9,499 worth the JBL Soundgear Frames when you pre-order!

The new phone make portraits like the real thing. It enhances the shot with Harcourt vibrant portrait style, classic and black and white. It's something that exudes emotion on photos, pretty good feature for phones that is photo-centric. It also has AI Creation through an update soon, something to look forward to in the near future. 

It also will have AI eraser so if you are shooting in a crowd, it's gonna disappear instantly. An AI Portrait Master. Design wise, they did it in matte and glossy, so the colors shine on its back cover. It has Super Vivid Display, dynamic dimming so you don't experience screen irritation. Uses Honor Eye Comfort display technology and Snapdragon 83 Gen 3, making it more powerful than its predecessors. It also has better fps when gaming, uses Silicon Carbon batteries able to charge 50 percent in 15 minutes. This is through 66W Supercharge ability, and that's just the start.

I've used the phone quite a lot these past few weeks on our coverages and shooting celebrities, so far, I love the photo quality especially the portraits I take. It does make a lot of difference when you use an HONOR phone, the HONOR 200 5G and the HONOR 200 5G Pro might be your best bet when you plan to get a new one. Check their social channels for more information, but in my books, the portraits produce drama... something that you should consider if you often take photos of yourself or other people. Some really good AI functionality will be added on updates soon, something that's exciting to see soon!

COW


Get Ready for "Bountiful Blooms": The 1st Philippine International Flower Festival

If you are fond of flowers, flower arrangements, science and the art, you're about to get a happy pill this coming September as the 1st Philippine International Flower Festival entitled "BOUNTIFUL BLOOMS" happens at the SPACE at One Ayala in Makati City.

Convenor Jerry Sibal says "This is the first International Flower Festival. On September 19-22, our homeland will be the place to hold PHILIFF where floral designers, landscaping, trade show, exhibit for ikebana, the art of Bonsai, and Orchids. This will also be the venue for a Fashion Show together with international artists. Last year, I told them about the Flower Festival, and we now have people from the government and the private sector to help me make it happen. This Bloombee here is simple, but we are making a full bloomed one in September, so you better be back soon. In Atok Benguet, we have a huge cut flower industry and putting them into the 40 Billion dollar global export market will surely boost the industry. Aside from these, we are also trying to promote local farm tourism, and grow flowers like Tulips, those from New York locally through hydroponics. We have 350 flower farms all over the country. We also need to educate through forums, you'll be surprised how fast this would grow."

There will also be Floral Art Installations, the whole second Floor of One Ayala will be having over 80 booths, 4 huge displays in the center and the floral fashion show installation.

Table pieces will also be showcased as part of the design for entertaining and this will be historical. This is Sibal's way of giving back, to the industry and country. He will also be displaying a few well loved PH bred Waling Waling at the exhibit, dedicated to the orchid lovers and collectors.


They need Bloombee sponsors to help them support more farmers, their CSR efforts will include the Bloombee Park which will host the fashion show, international participants, so you can experience what they do outside the country. Workshops and seminars will be posted soon. Make sure you follow the Philippine International Flower Festival social channels and official website to know more about how you can participate. There's no competition, the community will benefit from it.

Head on to philiff.com for tickets and updates about the event. If you want to participate or become a sponsor, they have it at the official website. This is supported by Ayala, and from the looks of it... it's blooming!




COW