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Does any of you remembers the MMMBop days?  Well, I definitely remember that time.  It was a craze!  Remembering that makes me realized how I've grown already and so are they.  It was really that long and I wonder what would be their music now.

Last week I get an invite with the presscon of the Hanson and because of unforeseen schedule I just let my correspondence cover the said event.  Here's the rest of the story...


To most of the world, Hanson were three little boys who sang infectious and catchy songs like “I Will Come to You,” “Penny and Me” and “Where’s the Love.” Fifteen years after hearing their ubiquitous "MMMBop" here, there, and everywhere—the boys are back to reward loyal Pinoy fans with some of their greatest pop-rock anthems.

In support of their highly-anticipated new studio record released by Polyeast Records, “Shout It Out,” Dayly Entertainment and Fox International Channels stage the Hanson Shout It Out Tour 2012 on March 30, 2012 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum and March 31, 2012 at Waterfront Hotel Cebu. PolyEast Records’ Robin Nievera will serve as the front act for the Metro Manila gig. Nievera has recently launched his debut album “Overwait” under PolyEast Records preceded by his first single “in 3’s.”

Hanson brothers Isaac, Taylor, and Zac, --the pop-rock boy band from Tulsa, Oklahoma that took the radio by storm in 1997-- are back with a force to be reckoned with. Experience a non-stop fun and dancing and the chance to bring back a phenomenon with one of the purest pop hitmakers of the last two decades.

Image courtesy of FPJ

Releasing their most ambitious album to date which reflects the music that Hanson listened to growing up-- 60's soul and 70's songwriters-- Shout it Out is now available in stores under by PolyEast Records. The new album, which debuted at #2 on the US Billboard Independent charts, has fuelled the continued passion of fans around the world; led by the infectious soul-inspired single “Thinking ‘Bout Somethin’” and the smash follow-up “Give A Little.” The album highlights music legends, guest bass player Bob Babbit of Motown fame, and horn arranger Jerry Hey, best known for his work with Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones and Earth Wind and Fire.

The three-time Grammy-nominated band has also been enjoying a massive resurgence with the first single’s video which pays homage to a scene from the classic movie "Blues Brothers" and features a guest appearance by "Wird Al" Yankovich. The 12-track set will mark the band's third release on its own 3CG Records label (including 2004's Underneath and 2007's The Walk) and distributed by PolyEast Records here in the Philippines. Fans can now buy the album at all major record outlets or download the songs at www.mymusicstore.com.ph

Drawing on the classic sounds of R&B, soul and blues albums they listened to growing up, Shout it Out is a breezy, sun-kissed collection of 12 hook-heavy, brass-indebted rock songs. The album includes the opener "Waiting For This," the groove-based "Kiss Me When You Come Home"; gospel- influenced "Carry You There"; leaning towards the easy-listening type of "And I Waited"; catchy and distinctive guitar riff of "Give a Little"; big band-esque sound "Make it Out Alive"; piano-driven ballad "Use Me Up"; the mid-tempo leanings of "These Walls" and "Voice in the Chorus"; and the vocal-driven album closer "Me, Myself and I."


Billboard said that Shout It Out represents some of the band’s “most soulful work ever committed to record”, while Salon hailed that the new single “may be their finest moment yet”, and Entertainment Weekly praised “Thinking ‘Bout Somethin’” as “a delicious, catchy slice of popsoul.”

PolyEast Records will also release Hanson’s “THE BEST OF 5” CD+DVD – a collection of Hanson’s live performances of their singles, released over the last 13 years. This exceptional concert series invites the millions of Hanson’s fans to re-live more than a decade of the band’s music and their renowned dynamic live shows, and gives an unparalleled look at why Hanson have stood the test of time.

Clarke Isaac (31 y.o.), Jordan Taylor (29 y.o.), and Zac Walker (26 y.o.) have spanned many different genres, including rock, blues, folk, and pop. They are most noted for their Grammy-nominated 1997 monster hit, “MMMBop” and have sold over 16 million albums. Their 1997 album “Middle of Nowhere” was met with critical acclaim and went on to achieve multi-platinum status and led the band being the youngest-ever nominated songwriters.

Over more than 15 years since their debut major release, the band has earned praises for their songwriting, musicianship and dynamic live performances with New York‘s Village Voice calling them the "Finest Straight Up Rock Band In America."

Well the band did have their concert here in Manila and in Cebu it's just too bad that I wasn't able to watch the Hanson Shout It Out Tour 2012 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum last March 30, 2012 which was presented by Dayly Entertainment.

The event was presented by Dayly Entertainment and Fox International Channels. Special thanks to Gold’s Gym and Metro Cuisine.

For more album details, you may log onto www.polyeastrecords.com, follow us on twitter PolyEast Records or “Like” us on Facebook fan page.

After the the eviction of PBB Housemate Divine, it is now down to the Big Four.  The race is set, who will be favor by the people and who will reign as the big winner of the Pinoy Big Brother Unlimited Edition.  Will it be?

Available for radio servicing now is “Eyes Open” by Taylor Swift, a massive tune featured on the motion picture soundtrack event of the year. The Hunger Games is rocketing towards a massive first week at the US box office. In step, the books from the Hunger Games series continue to fly off shelves and first week estimates on the soundtrack album are currently at 150-175k which should put The Hunger Games at #1 on the Billboard Albums chart next week.

“Eyes Open” is one of two Taylor Swift tracks on the album and written specifically with themes linked to the film. “Eyes Open” is organically selling as a download globally and is already playlisted at numerous pop radios around the world, including several major stations in the US. A video is in discussion now with details forthcoming.

THE HUNGER GAMES – SONGS FROM DISTRICT 12 AND BEYOND album is now available under MCA Music in CDs at leading record bars nationwide or online via mymusicstore.com.ph. To download The Hunger Games official soundtrack, “Safe and Sound” by Taylor Swift featuring The Civil Wars on your mobile phones, just text KL773 and send to 2332 for GLOBE/TM, text SAFETAYLOR and send to 2728 for SMART/ Talk N’ Text and text 5493457 and send to 2300 for SUN Cellular.

British classical pop quartet Blake, which sold over a million albums worldwide, has conquered the hearts of Filipinos with their successful promo tour for their Together album, under Universal Records. This is their first album released in the country.

Blake, composed of four talented, good looking singers Stephen Bowman, Jules Knight, Humphrey Burney, and Ollie Baines, will also serenaded thousands of Filipinas in their shows and TV guestings, which includes appearances in Showtume, ASAP Rocks, Paparazzi, among others.

Jules was reportedly smitten by actress KC Concepcion’s beauty. The two were reportedly seen hanging out a number of times.

Jules even asked KC for a “date” on National TV when they met in ASAP.

Jules pleads, “We really hope you can grab a copy of our first album to be released in the Philippines Together. It has our versions of some of the most romantic songs.”

Together boasts of having an interesting mix of traditional songs and more modern pop tracks, carefully chosen to further highlight the immense talent of the group. It includes U2’s With or Without You, Simon and Garfunkel’s Bridge Over Troubled Water, Elvis Costello’s She, among others.




The group considers their friendship, love for music, and same brand of humor as the secret to the success of their group.

Members of Blake admit being excited to perform for the Filipinos because of their love for romantic ditties.

When asked what song he wants to perform for their fans in the country, Humprey quips, “Up Where We Belong because it’s a great classic. I know you guys love to sing and you would know the words to this song.”

Blake is also considering doing collaborations with local talents soon.

Track List

1. With Or Without You (originally popularized by U2)
2. Bring Him Home (from Les Misérables)
3. Bridge Over Troubled Water (originally popularized by Simon & Garfunkel)
4. Abide With Me
5. La Califfa
6. She (popularized by Elvis Costello)
7. I Vow To Thee, My Country
8. She Was Beautiful (Cavatina)
9. Ave Maria
10. Nessun Dorma
11. Unsung Hero featuring Caroline Redman Lusher
12. Titans
13. When A Child Is Born
14. Here's To The Heroes (Band of Brothers Theme)
15. Voice Of An Angel
16. Beautiful Earth
17. All Of Me (Inspired by Prince William & Kate Middleton's Wedding)

London, 22nd March, 19:30 hrs. The Body Shop, one of the 21st Century's most iconic and pioneering Brands, today launched a new beauty movement – called Beauty With Heart – that will inspire individuals everywhere and transform the boundaries of beauty.

Beauty With Heart places emphasis on a beauty experience that is more than skin-deep, putting a human stamp on beauty and empowering people the world over to Look Good, Feel Good And Do Good.

Beauty With Heart will spring to life through a new store experience called Pulse, as well as through the active support of the first global Brand Advocate for The Body Shop, Lily Cole.

Activist, model and actor Lily Cole is the embodiment of the Brand’s strong Values and the first of a community of inspiring young activists.

Sophie Gasperment, Executive Chairman, The Body Shop, said: "We know that our Brand delivers more than beauty; our products truly contain heart as well. Today, we’re looking to a future where our vision of beauty can be experienced by new generations for whom it is all about looking good, feeling good and doing good, too.”

Lily Cole, global Brand Advocate for The Body Shop, said: “I have long been an advocate of the potential of using business and consumer power to cause positive change. The Body Shop takes a responsible attitude to people and the environment, and it feels amazing to be supporting a brand who are pioneers in that way of working.”

The launch took place in central London and attracted figures from the world of fashion, beauty and lifestyle such as Vivienne Westwood and Jo Wood. The Body Shop became one of the world’s first ethical businesses when it opened its first store in 1976 in Brighton, UK. Today, The Body Shop welcomes over 275 million shoppers to its stores every year, and has over 2,700 stores in 63 countries worldwide.

Beauty With Heart will be rolling out in the UK from 3rd May, with global roll out to follow from 15th May onwards.

Catch their Pamamaalam concert and alumni night, “SingKwenta, SingKwela!” on March 31, 2012, Saturday at 7:30 P.M., Philamlife Auditorium, U.N Avenue Manila.

“SingKwenta, SingKwela!” will showcase a world-class repertoire of choice international spirituals, Broadway classics, and well-loved OPM songs. The touring group during the UPCC’s Golden Anniversary year will perform this repertoire from April through October, sharing its unique brand of music and dance to a myriad of audiences in the United States, Europe, UK, and Southeast Asia.






The concert also features guest artists Ms. Nanette Inventor (UPCC Alumna Batch 1974) and UPCC Alumni Batches 1985-1994 and 2006, marking this Pamamaalam a special night for the UPCC alumni as well.

The events are presented by the Friends of Korus Foundation, Inc. Tickets available at the gate are Php300 each. Students and senior citizens can avail of the discounted rate of P200 upon presenting valid IDs. To reserve your tickets, contact Eenna at 0915-748-1351 or Audrey at 0917-628-3739.

TV5's Kanta Pilipinas brought the Filipino pride, musical tourism set to promote the country's local talents in the City of Love, Iloilo last March 23-24, 2012. If it was so easy for the contestants in other regional audition venues to come to the stage and bring the house down with their confidence, the Ilonggos were so nitpicky and conservative supporting the hopefuls who had more talent than stories.

This time, the country's considered RnB Siren Ms. Arnee Hidalgo joined our panel of judges, Cornerstone Talent Management Head, Mr. Erickson Raymundo and award-winning cross genre composer, arranger and producer Mr. Jimmy Antiporda selecting the country's top local performers in SM City Iloilo.




The songs took over the stories with more outstanding performances of Ilonggos on the stage. One of the most unforgettable hopeful was a young teenager who sang a Jovit Baldivino's "Too Much Love Will Kill You' dedicating the song to his girlfriend who died of leukemia. Another hopeful from Boracay composed his own songs and a product of broken family who longs for his father's love with his songs. The inspiring stories that created more color and passion to the song wowed the judges in Iloilo.

From among the few registrants, almost half were called back the following day and the final list from Ilonggo were 16 lucky hopefuls who will vie their chances in Manila soon. Were the stories more powerful than the songs?

We have too much to look forward with TV5's Kanta Pilipinas as more performances will unfold in the upcoming auditions set on March 30 at SM City North EDSA and April 20 in SM City Batangas.

The excitement continues with the country's biggest and newest singing talent search that's truly Filipino, Kanta Pilipinas, soon to be airing on TV5! Let the song uplift the nation with Kanta Pilipinas! We all believe that Filipinos are the best singers in the world! Tara na! Kanta mo, Kwento mo, Kapatid #Kanta_Pilipinas!

Movie time people! I'm pretty sure that mythology lovers would be eager to watch this movie. I know someone who would.

Wrath of the Titans is a follow up movie of the Clash of the Titans. It seems that the Titans are always fighting, anyway that's what the story of the greek mythology is all about. I wonder what would be the next title if there will be another?

So if you got plenty of moola and you got nothing to do today just head on to the nearest cinema in your place and watch Wrath of the Titans.

Just a brief of the story. After Perseus defeated Hades and the Kraken in Clash of the Titans he lived as a a fisherman with his son Helius. Meanwhile on the world of the gods and goddesses something happened to Zeus. He was overthrown and placed in the deep underworld dungeons and Perseus gets the news and needs to save his father.

By the way here's the teaser of the movie...

TV5's newest singing reality search, Kanta Pilipinas held auditions at the Summer Capital of the country, Baguio City. The nationwide search for the country's biggest talent brought more crowd witnessing the Ilocanos take the stage with formidable and truly exceptional celebrity judges, award winning Cross Genre Composer, Arranger, Producer Mr. Jimmy Antiporda, Power belter Ms. Bituin Escalante and Cornerstone Talent Management Head, Mr. Erickson Raymundo.

Powerful songs sung and interesting stories unfolded with more than 193 registrants who tried and participated. Perky and crowd-attraction Jhai'Ho opened the program with dynamic song and dance boosting more confidence of the contestants. Compared to the former auditions, the hopefuls in Baguio did not choose Adele's songs and stuck to standards and classics. Onlookers and mall-goers were drawn to the stage as many hopefuls look truly exceptional and pleasing. Was the looks enough to get the vote of the judges? Ms. Bituin Escalante was teased in the middle of the auditions to sample what would be "giving all you've got" performance. Singing while sitting, more audience were thrilled and captivated at our country's power belter's rendition of Alicia Key's "If I Ain't Got You".

Distinct and unforgettable stories that inspired the songs of the hopefuls include a battered teenager who would hide in different places of the house all the time. An interesting twin was astounding with the song and the story sharing how their father had always taken their income in singing. Battery stories continued with one who is always hand-cuffed by the father getting inspiration and passion to sing from the struggles. The stories behind the songs brought the others to the next level.

From a batch of 193 registrants, 43 were called back and only 16 was given the recognition to compete with the nation when Kanta Pilipinas begins airing on July. Was the looks or the drama enough to take them to the next step? Will they be fortunate to compete for the final list? These and more we have all to look forward with Kanta Pilipinas which will be airing on TV5 soon!

SM Mall of Asia remains to be the top lifestyle destination in the country with its endless dining, entertainment and leisure choices. This mall also takes pride in featuring the most awaited and extraordinary events of the metro every season. This February to March 2012, witness the biggest and the best annual fireworks show in Asia, The 3rd Philippine International Pyromusical Competition!

This is where 11 of the world’s most renowned pyrotechnic artists from various countries are bound to put on a spectacular and never-before-seen fireworks exhibition. Last 2011, China reigned supreme as it took the glorious trophy and placed United Kingdom and Japan in the second and third spots, respectively. This 2012, China and United Kingdom are back to compete once again in this prestigious event.


For 2012, the brightest competition opens with South Korea and Malta on February 11, United Kingdom and Spain on February 18, Finland and Portugal on February 25, China and The Netherlands on March 3, Australia and Canada on March 10 and Italy on March 17. On the last day, March 17, Philippines as the host country will also showcase a phenomenal Pyromusical performance to be executed by Platinum Fireworks, Inc. which was recently awarded “Most Favorite Pyromusical Performance” at the GlobalFest 2011 held in Calgary, Canada.

This event would not be possible without its presenters, Close-up and Samsung Galaxy Note, co-presenters Tanduay and Yamaha, in cooperation with Platinum Fireworks and Department of Tourism. Its major sponsors FOX International Channels and McDonald’s, its official residence Microtel MOA and media partner, Philippine Daily Inquirer.

It begun last February 11 and ended March 17, 2012 with a Big Bang.  People witnessed the brightest show on earth showcased by world-class explosions of colors harmonized with electrifying music, The 3rd Philippine International Pyromusical Competition happened at the bayside mall of the country, SM Mall of Asia!

Winners of the competition are....




Until next pyromusical event!

Adele and Whitney were still the national anthem among contestants along with other standards and OPM pop songs like Angeline Quinto’s Patuloy ang Pangarap in SM CITY DAVAO last March 10, 2012. Hosted by the perky and lively Jhai Ho, TV5’s Kanta Pilipinas in SM CITY DAVAO became the talk of the town especially after the last calamity struck in the province.

Giving hope to all Davaoeños, Ms. Jamie Rivera, Mr. Jimmy Antiporda and Mr. Erickson Raymundo enjoyed the performances of Davao hopefuls. From the roster of 378 registrants coming from the cities of GenSan, Cotabato, Sarangani and other outskirts, 46 contestants were given another chance to get the judges’ attention the next day.


There was one welder who stood out despite his looks rendering an unforgettable performance and a farmer who dreamt of having his own land. Stories of broken families and living with stepfather were cognizant to the other contestants’ sorrows except for an interesting unemployed young man who makes a living out of singing earning his talent from his disabled grandfather.

Ms. Jamie Rivera had a hard time choosing who will go to the next level after consecutive outstanding performances of the hopefuls. At the end of the second day call-back auditions, 22 hopefuls from Davao made it in the list of eliminations.

Fun and more fun of TV5’s Kanta Pilipinas’ call for the nation continued in Cebu last March 2, 2012. Hosted by Jhai’Ho, the event center of SM CITY CEBU filled the mall with 424 registrants and more than a thousand onlookers and mall-goers when TV5’s Kanta Pilipinas began the auditions. Audition Judges Ms. Jamie Rivera, Erickson Raymundo and Mr. Vehnee Saturno entertained the crowd with their comments and reactions. Interesting songs and stories unveiled like a girl from Surigao who won a local contest in her province was sponsored by the Mayor to go to Cebu to audition so she can fly to Manila to look for her Dad whom she never met. The humble dream to be reunited with the father was referred as “Taong-Grasa”. Ms. Jamie Rivera tried to enliven the spirit of the sobbing participant, “Kung ang tatay mo taong grasa, alam ko kung ano ka (Baby Oil”? which the mob appreciated. Cornerstone Talent Management Center Head Mr. Erickson Raymundo pushed the inspiration more with his comments, “Bigay mo na lahat ng Kaya mo, Buwis Buhay na ito”. Another pupil-dilating story was a girl who has Retinitis Pigmentosa (a rare disease suffering from loss of sight at night), a girl born with hairlip but can now sing and a girl who want to give honor to her island (referring to Siargao). From the 424 registrants, 51 hopefuls were called back the next day and only 16 passed to get to Manila.

With 180 registrants last Feb. 24, 2012 in SM City Cagayan De Oro reaching the cities of Iligan, Misamis and Cagayan, 76 hopefuls were called back and only 37 passed the judges’. Filipino pop songs became the favorite rendered on the stage with many who rendered the Grammy Award winning songs of Adele and Whitney Houston, hopefuls came from different communities and barangays.

Inspirational Diva and audition judge Ms. Jamie Rivera was excited to listen to the stories of the Cagay-anons. Award winning Cross Genre Composer, Arranger, Producer Mr. Jimmy Antiporda raised eyebrows asking a couple who sang on the stage. “May conflict ba yan?” relating to the girl singer and pianist boyfriend as he was alluded in the same shoe with Ms. Jamie Rivera in the past. Ms. Maristel Sampedro became the comic relief throwing funny comments at gays impersonating Whitney Houston on the stage.




What astounded the judges and onlookers was the ex-convict contestant who vented denouncing his past as a former member of the Akyat-Bahay gang. There was also one with 11 siblings living in different parts of Mindanao hoping to be reunited with dreams through Kanta Pilipinas.

Marvin Agustin has been out of the quiet on the big screen for quite some time and it's for sure that his fans are pretty thrilled to see him act again on the big screen. The movie is directed by Wenn V. Deramas entitled Moron 5 and the Crying Lady under Viva Films and MVP Pictures.




Half-witted longtime friends Albert (Luis), Isaac (Billy), Mozart "Mo" (DJ), Michaelangelo "Mike" (Martin) and Aristotle "Aris" (Marvin Agustin) were used to living moronic yet pretty normal and hassle-free lives until successful careerwoman Becky Pamintuan (John Lapus) accused them of killing her father and ruin everything for them. The Moron 5 are more than sure of their innocence but the life of them, they cannot find a single satisfactory argument on how to prove it especially when their opponent would do everything to punish them for whim.

Spending three miserable years in prison trying different failed comedic attempts to get out, they finally figured a way to escape. They stalked Becky and try to understand why she is fighting so hard to have them imprisoned when it's clear as day that what happened three years ago was a nonsense frame-up.




An opportunity came when Becky's driver got fired for having an affair with her maid and Albert volunteered to apply to replace him. He infiltrated the Pamintuan Residence and together with this four crazily daft friends, they've gathered information about the curious family yet to them, Becky's unexplained hatred for them it isn't making any sense at all.

Why is Becky fighting so hard to have them suffer? The Moron 5 will try their hardest to know and hopefully understand what's really going on although little did they know that by doing so, everything that they hold dear might be at risk.

It was an opportunity seeing a movie like "The Lorax", especially this days that our world is experiencing an environmental issue.

The Lorax is one of Dr. Seuss classic children's book story and it was given life in 3D animation with wonderful new characters, including a boy, whose journey is to search for a magical creature that will win for him the affection of the girl he loves.

The Lorax' story centers on one of the most important issue of our time, saving our environment.  It is set in an imaginary world that is polluted and grim, because of Once-ler, a strange creature obsessed in cutting "Truffula" or trees, thinking that this will help him craft "Thneeds", which he thought everyone will need.  In the end, after realizing the sad consequences of his action, Once-ler gives the boy the last truffula seed and asked him to plaint it for trees and fauna to return.

The story of The Lorax is relevant today.  virtually almost all of the country's ecosystems have been significantly transformed or degraded.  Philippine ecosystems have changed more rapidly due to deforestation, pollution, urban congestion, marine and coastal degradation and loss of biodiversity, which have worsen the impacts of climate change in the Philippines.

"Trees are very important in the country's roadmap in the battle against climate change, they clean the air while at the same time serving as carbon sinks", Secretary Mary Ann Lucille Sering said.

The NCCAP, approved by President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III November last year, has seven thematic priorities, one of which is Ecosystem and Environment stability.  Environmental sustainability therefore means maintaining healthy and stable ecosystems, which is a necessity especially amidst changing climate.





"Adapting to climate change requires the action of everyone.  We need to have everyone informed of what they can do to save the environment, and in the long run, the future generations.  We have to act now if we want our children to have genuine trees in their time", she said.

In cooperation with the United States Agency for International Development (USAid), the CCC aims to share the morale of the story to young and old alike as they launch their video against climate together with the premiere of the movie.

The video will be shown in all SM and Ayala cinemas for one whole year.

"Our video will show that people from all walks of life should be involved in addressing climate change.  Small actions count big, and collectively they can make an impact", she added.

"It's not too late. We still have genuine trees around us.  Climate change is here and we need to adapt.  Let's take care of the environment and we will be more climate resilient in the future," she said.

What better way to hold the country’s biggest Skate Summit than to let two of the world’s best pro skaters to lead it?

This is exactly what Converse Philippines has in store for the hundreds of skateboard enthusiasts who are set to compete for the Converse Asia Crown title on March 31 at the Trinoma Mindanao Open Parking in Quezon City.

During the summit, US-based pro skaters Kenny Anderson and Mike Anderson are set to show Filipino skaters how skateboarding is really done with their extremely polished skate tricks that seem effortless.

Kenny Anderson, who returns better than ever as an alumni to the Converse Skate Team (having been on the original team in 1997), is considered “untouchable” on a skateboard for his consistent style and fluidity; while for Mike Anderson’s part, his skating is often described as “effortless,” because he is said to make his tricks look as if was very easy to do.

Catering to the best skateboarders around the Metro, the Asia Crown aims to give Filipino skateboarders the chance to show off their dope moves on the board and compete with the best of the best skateboarders across the country.

More than bragging rights, the local Asia Crown skateboarding champion will be hailed as the first official skateboarding ambassador of Converse Philippines—That means a year of Converse skateboarding goodies, P50,000 cold hard cash, and plane tickets to official Converse skateboarding events worldwide.

An open skate for all, free of charge, the skate summit will also be a day-long celebration of physical recreation, while fusing music and the arts, to reinforce Converse Philippines’ position as a key proponent of the global sport that is skateboarding.

For interested registrants, check Converse Philippines Facebook page and drop by www.converse.com.ph. Registration forms are available for download at the Converse Philippines’ Converse Asia Crown event page and in stores nationwide.

March 17, it was the last day of the jam-packed 3rd Philippine International Pyromusical Competition event in SM Mall of Asia.  It's the last presentation of fireworks from Italy and from the Philippines.  Also, this is the announcement of the winners of the pyromusical competition.

Gladly I was able to cover this event and had time to be there, though it was really rough going at SM Mall of Asia because of the heavy traffic caused by vast number of viewers and expectators.   Well, perhaps because it is the last day of the pyromusical and it's almost vacation time already and most students are now free to enjoy the vacation.  Good that I got there just in time.

The last competitor for the competition was Italy with its Orzella Fireworks S.R.I., it is founded in 1884 and they are proud of its family tradition on the art of fireworks which has been handed down from generation to generation.  They are also the co-organizer of the Caput Lucis Fireworks Competition.











Of course the whole competition would not be complete without the presentation of the Philippines though it was only an exhibition from Platinum Fireworks, Inc.  They are the organizer and co-producer of this international event.   Platinum Fireworks, Inc. has brought pride to the Philippines by placing 2nd Runner Up at the 2009 and 2010 Macau International Fireworks Display Contest and winning the 2011 Globalfest Pyromusical Competition held in Calgary, Canada.

They will be once again representing the Philippines in this year's Globalfest 2012.  The Grand Finale also include a Special Pyromusical Segment from Close Up, the confidence to get closer!

Though there came up with a technical problem the presentation was able to move on and finish the night with a Big Bang!

Here are some of the pictures as well...

Marvin Agustin’s journey to what he is today—a successful chef and restaurateur—is so inspiring that it became the cornerstone of his latest endorsement for Knorr Cubes.

Marvin recently signed on to become the new brand ambassador for Knorr Cubes, the favorite partner of people like him who are passionate about food and cooking. As such, he is also the new face behind Knorr Cubes’ “Door to door Sabaw Challenge” in which he will be visiting different cities all over the Philippines, challenging cooks to identify which is the better, more ma-karne and better-tasting sabaw: the one made with Knorr Cubes, or not?

During the challenge, Marvin will present two versions of sabaw, one made with granules and the other, made with Knorr cubes. Marvin believes so much in the product’s claims to deliver the meatiest taste and flavor that he throws in a promise to give up cooking if they end up choosing the sabaw that’s not made of Knorr cubes—and everyone knows how passionate Marvin is about cooking, so for him to promise that is a big deal.


Among the locations Marvin will visit are Laguna, Iloilo, and Metro Manila. There will be a series of 30-seconder commercials featuring Marvin engaging cooks and housewives to take part in the challenge.

“That’s really what it’s about: Marvin being confident about the product so much that he’s willing to give up his passion for cooking just to prove a point, which is that Knorr cubes is the meatiest out of all the cooking aids in the Philippines,” says Monica Rios, brand manager of Knorr for Unilever Philippines, which is spearheading the Door-to-door challenge.

Marvin grew up in a household where cooking was a passion. Their apartment was small, and from the living room, one could sit and smell what was being cooked in the kitchen.

His mother loved to cook Filipino dishes. “Mahilig kami sa sabaw. Mahilig kami sa sinigang, mahilig kami sa nilaga. Every meal, kailangan laging may sabaw. Sabaw at kanin,” recalls Marvin. “At we really used Knorr cubes. Kahit pinakbet, nilalagyan ng Knorr shrimp na cubes.”

As a teenager, Marvin worked as a waiter, and later, became a mascot for a popular fastfood chain. From there, he worked his way up, became a popular actor and re-invented himself into a successful businessman with a chain of restaurants that includes Sumo Sam, Oyster Boy, Marciano’s, Komrad, John and Yoko and Mr. Kurosawa.

This is what inspired Unilever to choose him to be the latest endorser of Knorr Cubes.

Says Rios: “It’s a nice success story to hear, that he started out as a waiter, and even worked as a mascot for a while. He has proven that he can rise above all the challenges in life. Now he’s a chef and a restaurateur. It’s very inspiring, the way he was able to achieve everything…maypassion siya, and he just really went for it. So it’s a nice feeling for him to be endorsing the product.”

Marvin feels honored to be chosen to join Knorr’s family of chefs. “When I first learned about it (endorsement), sabi ko, everyone knows that I really love cooking. I love cooking for my friends and my family, and Knorr cubes is really what we use for soup. So napakasaya at family-orientedang pino-promote namin na brand.”

Get the latest updates from Marvin himself! Like Marvin Agustin on Facebook or follow him @marvin_agustin on Twitter.

Also visit Knorr Philippines.

Thanks to Chicken Deli I will have a chance to watch the movie "The Hunger Games".  Just hoping to get there on time to get the tickets and also the dinner.  Hahaha!

So, The Hunger Games, what was about this movie and why most people are eagerly waiting to watch this?  The actors, perhaps, or the story.  I don't know anything about how it is foretold in the book written by Suzanne Collins.  It is a bestseller young-adult book in 2008 and I have not read it err I did not read it because of lack of sources, etc.  This movie is starred by Jennifer Lawrence who played Katniss Everdeen, Josh Hutcherson and Liam Hemsworth, directed by Gary Ross.

The story is set in a future where food shortages is chronic and the outskirt regions are being suppressed.  The only thing left to do to avoid suppression is to annually provide 24 young people by lottery to compete and fight to the death on live television.  

So, I'm very anxious to watch the movie as well and learn why people are expecting this.

The Coca Cola Concert ng Bayan will be held today, March 23, 2012 at 3 PM at the SM Mall Of Asia Concert Grounds.  There will be performances from Sarah Geronimo, Somedaydream and Gary Valencia.  Also, most of your favorite local bands and artists will be there to perform as well like Parokya ni Edgar, Gloc 9, Sandwich, 6Cyclemind, Sponge Cola, Chicosci, Cally Lily, Ebe Dancel, Rico Blanco, Never the Strangers, Itchyworms, Wolfgang and Pupil.

So if you're in for the concert just head on at the SM MOA Concert Grounds and celebrate with Coca Cola 's Concert ng Bayan!

As the MYX Music Awards concluded many music artist are very happy of the outcome.  Here's a simple round-up from MCA with artist who bag the awards.

Two of MCA Music’s major domestic artists went home victorious at the recent MYX Music Awards held recently at the Music Museum.


Rock band Chicosci’s new single “Unbelievable” was voted by a combination of MYX viewers and artists as “Favorite Remake”. The song is a cover of the EMF original which is included in the compilation album “90s Music Comes Alive” under MCA Music. Its music video was directed by Paolo Ruiz and Tower of Doom and was supported by Samsung Galaxy S Wifi 5.0. “Unbelievable” easily made it at MYX charts just days after its premiere last year. The band is currently finishing their new album under MCA Music.

“We are so thankful for those who voted four our music video which was quite different from what we usually do like doing a cover and shooting a video during one of our tours,” Miggy said.


Another winner was electronic-pop sensation Somedaydream who bagged the “Favorite MYX Celebirty VJ”. Since debuting at last year’s MYX Music Awards, so many good things came along for this talented Ateneo student which also led him to a MYX Celebrity VJ stint in June 2011. His album is still out under Mecca Music and MCA Music which includes the hit singles “Hey Daydreamer”, “Delivery Boys” and “Sing This Song”.

“I was just there last year to perform and now I won an award! It’s unbelievable and I’m so happy that MYX is always there to support,” Somedaydream said.

Since 2006, MYX, the number 1 music channel in the Philippines honors the biggest hitmakers in the Philippines via the MYX Music Awards.

Round ups for the local music industry!

In her few months in showbiz, Zia has already proven that she is more than just the daughter of King of Comedy Dolphy and Divine Diva Zsa Zsa Padilla’s daughter. She has recently been named as 2012 MYX Music Awards’ Favorite New Artist.

Zia’s music, which fused pop, soul, jazz, and retro R&B, has been widely-accepted by the public yielding the hit song Ako Na Lang. She recently launched her new single Dear Lonely, lifted from her debut album Zia. The album has recently been awarded a Gold Record Award.

Simple Girl is also available for download at www.mymusicstore.com.ph. It also boasts of having more than 160,000 songs making it the country’s biggest music download site, where one can get tracks as low as P20.


“I’m proud to say that all the songs in the album were arranged to my style of singing. My producers made sure I was comfortable with singing the songs in the album,” Zia says. “I am happy that people appreciate my music.”

It was no surprise then when Zia chose to cover her mom Zsa Zsa Padilla’s ‘80s hit ‘Mambobola’. “We were throwing some ideas around and I think I actually suggested the song myself. I felt that it would be very nice to have one of my mom’s songs on the album as a kind of tribute to her for all of the things she has done for me.”

Zia also covered Sheena Easton’s ‘So Much In Love’ and Michael Jackson’s ‘Smile’, dedicated to her comedian father Dolphy. “Aside from my mom, I would say that my dad’s taste in music really shaped mine. He influenced me to appreciate the classics—from standards to classical to world music and even oldies.”

MyMusicStore, created to support OPM artists and to cater to Pinoy music lovers, is the ultimate one-stop shop for those who can’t wait to have their music downloads right here, right now!