Digital Wallets Surge in Popularity in APAC

MasterCard’s latest Mobile Shopping Survey reveals that consumers in Asia Pacific are embracing new mobile technologies with one in five or (19.5 percent) using digital wallets, a two-fold increase from two years ago (9.7 percent).

Emerging markets are leading the way with smart phone users in China (45.0 percent), India (36.7 percent) and Singapore (23.3 percent) the region’s biggest adopters of digital wallets. The results are based on interviews that took place between October and December 2015with 8,500 people aged 18-64 across 14 markets in Asia Pacific.

While mobile banking apps (31.8 percent) are still the most widely used among other new mobile technologies such as in-app shopping and mobile NFC payments, digital wallets have seen the fastest uptake over the last two years.

In addition, consumers continue to embrace mobile shopping with half in Asia Pacific having made a purchase using their smart phone in the three months. Unsurprisingly, the markets that have seen strong uptake of digital wallets are also where the majority of people are using their mobiles to shop.

Overall, close to half of respondents (48.5 percent) across the region have made a purchase using their smart phone in the past three months, led by those in India (76.4 percent), China (76.1 percent), South Korea (62.0 percent) and Thailand (61.1 percent).

India also tops the region in growth rates, with the number of people shopping on smart phones rising by 29.3 percent from two years ago, followed by Vietnam (17.7 percent) and Singapore (17.1 percent).

Australians (23.7 percent) and New Zealanders (16.2 percent) are the least likely to shop online via their mobile phones.

More than half of the respondents across Asia Pacific (53.9 percent) cited convenience as the key driver for shopping on their smart phone. Other motivating factors include the ability to shop on the go (42.9 percent) and the growing availability of apps that make it easy to shop online (41.4 percent).

Clothing and accessories (35 percent), personal care and beauty products (20.9 percent) and movie tickets (20.4 percent) are the top mobile shopping purchases amongst Asia Pacific consumers. Close to half ofM consumers in China (46.4 percent), India (42.5 percent) and Korea (42.1 percent) shop for clothing and accessories on their smart phone.

In the Philippines, an increase in mobile shopping was also noted, with 40.9 percent purchasing an item via smart phone in the past three months. Similar to their counterparts in Asia Pacific, Filipinos’ top mobile shopping purchases are 31.5 percent clothes and other fashion accessories, 21.7 percent personal care and beauty products, and 18.3 percent home appliances. Filipinos point to being able to shop on the go and convenience as primary reasons for mobile shopping.

When it comes to new mobile technologies for business and online shopping, 33.5% of Filipinos are more familiar and likely to use mobile banking apps. Digital wallets come second at 17 percent, which has risen from 10.3 percent in the past years.

Raj Dhamodharan, Group Head, Digital Payments, Asia Pacific, MasterCard commented “New forms of mobile payment technology, such as MasterCard’s digital wallet MasterPass, are making transactions easier and safer, online, in-app and in-store. As more and more merchant apps provide shopping and services, consumers need a digital wallet that provides the best balance between security and convenience. We are already seeing that demand in many markets in Asia Pacific from India to Singapore to Australia. In Singapore for example consumers are using their MasterPass wallet to pay their bills and book taxis. In each of these cases we worked with merchants to enable safe and simple in app payments using MasterPass."

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About MasterCard

MasterCard (NYSE: MA), www.mastercard.com, is a technology company in the global payments industry. We operate the world’s fastest payments processing network, connecting consumers, financial institutions, merchants, governments and businesses in more than 210 countries and territories. MasterCard’s products and solutions make everyday commerce activities – such as shopping, traveling, running a business and managing finances – easier, more secure and more efficient for everyone. Follow us on Twitter @MasterCardAP and @MasterCardNews, join the discussion on the Beyond the Transaction Blog and subscribe for the latest news on the Engagement Bureau.

Media Contacts

Georgette Tan, MasterCard, georgette_tan@mastercard.com, +65 6390 5971

Georgina Mallory, Weber Shandwick, gmallory@webershandwick.com, +65 6825 8026

Samantha Yong, Weber Shandwick, samyong@webershandwick.com, +65 6825 8053

Appendix: Data

% of respondents who have made a purchase using a smartphone

	2015	2014	2013
Asia Pacific	48.5	45.6	38.6
Australia	23.7	19.6	24.8
China	76.1	70.1	59.4
Hong Kong	42.9	38.2	40.0
India	76.4	62.9	47.1
Indonesia	55.5	54.9	46.7
Japan	31.3	25.8	22.9
Korea	62.0	53.8	47.6
Malaysia	45.5	45.6	31.5
New Zealand	16.2	20.7	15.0
Philippines	40.9	34.0	32.8
Singapore	48.5	36.7	31.4
Taiwan	46.6	62.6	45.2
Thailand	61.1	58.8	51.2
Vietnam	51.7	45.2	34.9

% of respondents who currently use digital wallets

	2015	2014	2013
Asia Pacific	19.5	11.2	9.7
Australia	13.6	4.6	2.4
China	45.0	28.5	32.0
Hong Kong	11.2	7.0	7.2
India	36.7	24.4	13.6
Indonesia	11.1	15.6	9.8
Japan	7.7	2.3	2.8
Korea	13.4	9.8	11.8
Malaysia	11.0	12.2	6.2
New Zealand	9.5	1.6	1.6
Philippines	17.0	10.3	10.8
Singapore	23.3	5.7	4.4
Taiwan	13.0	13.8	9.8
Thailand	7.6	6.8	11.4
Vietnam	15.9	14.0	11.8

Global FC Blanks Loyola Meralco Sparks FC, 2-0

There’s no stopping two-time UFL Champion GLOBAL FC now.

Loyola Meralco Sparks FC saw a formidable opponent in GLOBAL FC last Saturday, Feb. 27, at the Rizal Memorial Stadium as GLOBAL FC blanked Loyola FC, with a 2-0 score.

The Saturday night crowd at Rizal Memorial Stadium saw players Omid Nazari and Arthur Kouassi contributing 1 goal each in behalf of the Leyte-based team.

First goal was by Arthur Kouassi, during the 42nd minute of the first half of the match, while the 2nd goal taking place at the 2nd half of the match.

Omid Nazari, who became a marked man after his hat trick during GLOBAL FC’s UFL opening game against Pasargad FC, was named Man of the Match.

Coach Leigh Manson says,“On Thursday we will have the Ceres game, which is obviously the most challenging among the recent games we’ve had. We are not yet where we should be, but I think slowly, we are gaining momentum which is good.  I think with Ceres next week we probably have to go higher (take it a notch higher).  But when we play against each other, I think you’ll find that the teams lift themselves because there’ll be a lot of Azkals players, playing against each other, they know each other very well and nobody wants to lose that game.”

“GLOBAL FC fans are also encouraged to root for their team this Thursday, March 3.  There is nothing like a stadium full of screaming fans”, Coach Manson adds.

GLOBAL FC vs. Ceres FC takes place on March 3, Thursday, 8:30 p.m. at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.


*This is Press Release

GSM BLUE: Embrace the New

As the leader in the gin category, we are much aware that the market landscape is changing. Today, more and more youths are interested in exploring their spirit of adventure and fueling their #YOLO attitudes. Ginebra San Miguel aims to be part of that notion, which is why we have changed the look and reformulated GSM Blue. The contemporary look has been updated to capture the curiosity of the young. Its fresh citrus aroma invigorates the sense of smell and a sip of the enhanced GSM Blue will leave you speechless because of its distinct smoothness and light taste. Straight up or mixed, the new GSM Blue is the ideal drink to bring life to all your explorations wherever you are and whoever you are with.

GSM Blue will be part of your summer adventure because we will be invading the favorite destinations of our millennial target market. From La Union, Baler, Zambales, Laguna and all the way to Boracay, expect to find GSM Blue’s unique activations. From sampling booths, special lounges where you can hang with your friends under the sun, to being creative with our Ink for Drinks activity where you get free drinks for every henna tattoo, GSM Blue will give you an experience worth sharing on your social media feed. #YOLO #GSMBlue and #Adventure are the few themes you will see this summer from our brand. It's time to go on an adventure with GSM Blue, the spirit that is easy to drink and easy to mix.

To further hype up #YOLO and #Adventure, GSM Blue will fly 5 friends for free to the hottest summer destination, Boracay. Participants should post a photo of your tropa adventures with the new GSM Blue on Facebook and Instagram. Use the hashtag #GSMBlueSummerAdventure. The post with the most number of likes wins a 3D&2N Boracay Trip for 5. Winners will get to experience exhilarating activities such as zorb, ATV, cliff diving, parasailing, helmet diving and party all night on the labor day weekend.

In line with mixing, GSMI will also be holding its annual Blueniversity Bar Mixing event where Hotel and Restaurant Management students from different universities can participate to show off their mixing and bartending skills. Students from different schools will face off on March 7, 2016 and the winner will be given a chance to represent the country in an international competition. This is another activity that proves the brand’s close ties with the younger market. GSM Blue can truly take you places.

*This is Press Release

Sparta Launches Football Academy for Kids

Sports and Recreational Training Arena or SPARTA, best known for its FIFA certified 1-star indoor football field, launches the Sparta Football Academy for Kids.

PFF A-License Head Coach Joel Villarino says, "The program was set-up so that kids can experience the sport for the first time. Since football is a universal and a well-renowned sport, it is a sport you can play anywhere regardless of your height, gender, race and social status.”

Villarino continues, “With this program, kids can learn the basic skills of football and the rules of the game.  Apart from which, kids can also learn discipline and have a good sense of teamwork.  Football can also help in the improvement of one's health condition, it can also improve their decision-making skills, as they make decisions while on the field."

The program runs from March to May of 2016.  Classes are to be held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 am-12nn.

SPARTA is located along Pioneer Street in Mandaluyong City.  For more information, please call 6553799 or 0977-7634402.


About SPARTA:

SPARTA is a one-stop sports, lifestyle and wellness center built for the highly competitive athlete.  It strives to become the most influential sports facility in the Philippines through its centralised location, expert trainers and programs developed for those who aim to dominate the competition.

Apart from the Indoor Football Field and the Sparta Calisthenics Academy, users may also try Yoga, Capoiera, Karate, Jeet Kune Do, Filipino Martial Arts, Fluid Tactics and 360Pro.

Sparta is located at 126 Pioneer Street, Mandaluyong City. 

*This is Press Release

FatOut by ATC

All Clean!
Are you all clean? Clean on the inside and the outside? Since we’re kids we’re thought to always have a good hygiene. People always make sure to teach us how to take a bath, brush our teeth, brush our hair, and stay prim and presentable at all times. Hygiene is very important in our health, but what most people forget to teach is, being clean on the inside especially our colon is very important. Worry no more because FatOutcan help with that.

FatOutcan help make your digestive system more effective. When our colon is cleansed it pushes out undigested waste, clearing the way and helping you absorb good nutrients better. With a healthy colon your digestive system allows you to easily pass undigested waste through your system which can result to having lesser risk of other digestive problems and disorder and also help in weight loss.
FatOuthas the revolutionary Sweep and Shred Formula which helps in cleansing your colon and trimming down your fat.  Psyllium Husk sweeps and cleanses toxins in your colon while Green Tea Extract shreds and burns your fat. FatOut eliminates hard-to-digest fats and helps detoxify the colon. It nourishes the digestive system that can help in proper bowel movement and digestion. The sweep and Shred formula can help you lose the pounds without putting your health at risk. Note that, FatOut is not a medicinal drug and is not used to treat the symptoms of any disease.

FatOut should be taken daily, before every meal, preferably with a warm glass of water. FatOut is available at all Mercury Drug stores and other leading drugstores nationwide for SRP P125.00 per capsule. Stand out with FatOut!
For more information about FatOut, visit www.facebook.com/ATCFatOut.

*This is Press Release

Internet of Things Summit Philippines has Arrived!

With major technology companies and start-ups seriously embracing Internet of things strategies, now is the best time to introduce and educate more people about the power of this revolutionary technology.
This coming March 4-5, 2016, be prepared to be amazed by the technology of the things around us with the first ever Internet of Things Summit Philippines 2016. Aimed to introduce the IoT ecosystem to the country, the IoT Summit Philippines 2016 will feature more than 50 exhibitors from the tech industry, all of which are big movers of the Internet of Things in the Philippines and in Asia. The event also aims to create an avenue for the audience to appreciate the technology, bridging in the gaps and helping the Internet of things to unleash its full potential through various medium.
Being the social media and texting capital of the world, the market in our country is undeniably big, with millions of users of smartphones, laptops, and wearable technology that is getting to be popular to most of us.
The IoT Summit Philippines 2016 will be having a Plenary session that will focus more on what´s the latest advancements on Wearables such as Android Watch, Virtual & Augmented Reality. They will also cover Connected Health, Connected Living, Big Data and Security, 3D Printing and Future of 5G in the Philippines.

http://iotexpoph.econnext.com/plenary

“We want to prepare the Start ups & Tech community for Internet of Things” according to Elaine Cedillo, the Project Lead of IoT Summit Philippines “and to raise the profile of the Philippines that we are ready for the ‘Next Big Thing’  “ she added.
IoT Summit Philippines will also have pre events that will ultimately culminate towards the opening of the summit. Bootcamps and hackathons shall take place on February 20,21, 27 & 28 at Palet Express, Makati powered by A Space prior the event to reinforce the audience, with more than 200 participants varying from High School & College students, to Programmers, Engineers, I.T. developers, System Integrators and Hobbyist Makers.
The Bootcamp will be headed by Microsoft Philippines, Egizmo and Thinklab as the training partner while the IoT Hackathon is a project of Department of Science and Technology – Information and Communication Technology Office (DOST-ICTO), all happening at A Space_Palet Express, Chino Roces Makati City.
About 200+ makers composed of High School, College Students, Engineers, I.T. Professionals, System Integrators and developers will be expected to showcase their prototype project on March 4-5 which will open to the public to see. 
(Insert photo of a hackathon)

During the day 1 of IoT Bootcamp at ASpace Palet Express, Chino Roces Makati.

WHAT IS INTERNET OF THINGS AND WHY IS IT RELEVANT TO OUR LIVES?

Internet of things promises to innovate customer experience by allowing objects embedded with communications technology to transfer data over a network, helping them “communicate” with each other.  For example, car sensors can notify the driver if the vehicle’s condition is alarmingly dangerous; a washing machine’s status can be accessed via Wi-Fi; and your package or delivery can be tracked anywhere in the world in real time.

To put it simply, we will be able to communicate with all sorts of devices as long as they are connected to the internet.

With the continuous rise of the tech industry in the Philippines, major companies and start-ups are catching on the new revolution that this type of platform has to offer. The IOT Summit aims to drive more opportunities to this unceasing movement of IoT in the country, as well as prepare the industry and community in the foreseeable future, where most devices will also take part to this one of a kind technology.

The Internet of Things Summit Philippines 2016 is happening on March 4-5, 2016 at the Megatrade Hall 3, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong, Philippines. The event is organized by Econnext Ideas and Media and Red Wizard Events Management in partnership with DOST-ICTO and supported by Smart Communications, Smart Devnet, and PLDT Innolab with  MTTagorda Management Consulting and American Technologies.

Some members of the Philippine Cyberpress with DOST-ICTO Deputy Officer Monchito Ibrahim with IoT Summit Phililpines event partners, Thinklab, and the organizers from Redwizard Events Management and EConnext Ideas and Media.

You can check out the event website at iotexpoph.econnext.com or like their facebook : https://web.facebook.com/iotexpoph/ for more details or if you want to be an exhibitor or major partner, you can email info@econnext.com or text 09209734926 and 09179048777.


Sources
VIDEO REFERENCE FOR BLOGS (Source – Forbes.com): http://www.forbes.com/sites/jacobmorgan/2014/05/13/simple-explanation-internet-things-that-anyone-can-understand/#324415fb6828

1 – Morgan, Jacob. ‘A Simple Explanation Of 'The Internet Of Things’ (May 13, 2014) http://www.forbes.com/sites/jacobmorgan/2014/05/13/simple-explanation-internet-things-that-anyone-can-understand/#324415fb6828

2 – Burrus, Daniel. ‘The Internet of Things is Far Bigger Than Anyone Realizes’ http://www.wired.com/insights/2014/11/the-internet-of-things-bigger/

*This is Press Release

Vista Cinemas opens first and only MX4D Motion EFX Theater in the country at Evia Lifestyle Center

New state-of-the-art theaters redefine movie watching experience in Metro South Mall-goers of the Metro South can now experience the best cinema experience available in the world.

After the successful opening of its first movie theaters in Taguig, Vista Cinemas has opened to the public its second location at Evia Lifestyle Center in Vista City, Daang Hari. The four new movie theaters equipped with unique top-of-the-linefeatures are now ready to to redefine the movie-watching experience in the Southern Metro.

Three of the four newly opened cinemas are fitted with the latest and the best in audio technology--Dolby Atmos -- which allows movie-goers to feel like they're part of every scene. Sound produced by the Atmos System is projected from every direction in the cinema and moves with the action on-screen – creating a one-of-a-kind movie experience.

Apart from this world-class sound system, all four theaters of the Vista Cinemas are equipped with luxury seating from the FIGUERAS and LUXOS brands available only in selectlocations around the world.
Figueras is a Spanish brand that specializes in crafting high-end seating for public spaces. Their seats can be found in places such as The White House and the Philharmonie de Paris. Luxos is a specialized line developed by the Japanese furniture brand Okamura. Luxos is a new and original concept of a lounge chair with a lower, reclining seating posture that provides added comfort through its active back structure and smart operation.

Couples living and working in the area can now also get to experience world-class movie dates. Vista Cinema 2 at Evia Lifestyle Center has thirty-one customizedlove seats that take the romantic movie experience to a whole new level of comfort and coziness.
Best of all, Vista Cinema now brings the first and only MX4D Motion EFX Theater in the country to Southern Metro Manila. This latest evolution in 4D cinema technology features MX4D theater seats that move in-sync with the action on-screen, while special EFX generators inside the cinema make viewers feel every jolt, poke, tilt, plus timed wind and mist atomizers. Vista Cinema's MX4D theater lets residents in the south enjoy the latest cinema innovations without them needing to go too far from home, avoiding the stress and traffic of the busy Central Metro.

The two top-of-the-line movie theaters opened this month are only the first phase of growth for Vista Cinemas. With more Vista Cinema locations all over the country set to open within the year, more Filipinos can look forward to a new era of premier movie viewing, right by their doorstep.



*This is Press Release

Vita-E Capsules

2016 is a year for all natural, we get all serious whenever we see another DIY video on YouTube to achieve a more natural makeup, hair- do, or even a fashion OOTD. Looking natural is the way to go, achieving this looks, makes you look younger and effortlessly beautiful. Gone are the days when you put on so much blush on and foundation to cover up your blemishes, this years, trend is all about, less is more.
It’s the same issue for our skin, sometimes we get so addicted using so many products on our skin. In belief that it’ll make our skin more radiant and smooth, but that’s not always the case. Using less skin care products can be healthier for you, using a skin care product that will give you all the benefits that your skin really needs.
ATC Healthcare International Corp. searched for the best ingredient that gives a more beautiful and fit it into one convenient capsule of Vita-E.
Vita-E contains 400 IU of vitamin E, a known antioxidant that effectively protects the cells against free radicals and gives our skin a beautiful, youthful and effortless glow. 
Free radicals are molecules that harm cells and contribute to the development of conditions such as stroke and cancer which Vita-E helps to prevent. These antioxidants are also essential for the maintenance of healthy skin by protecting it from UV-induced damage. Vita-E works from the inside making you feel AND look great. Not only that Vita-E is essential in maintaining the functions of our heart, blood vessels, and nervous system, Vita-E also gives all around protection for a healthy immune system.
Take care of what’s beneath and be naturally beautiful with Vita-E. Vita-E is recommended to be taken one capsule per day. Vita-E is SRP P14.00 per soft gel capsule, available at Mercury Drug and all other leading drugstores nationwide. 

Meet, Greet and Team up with Kiefer and Jeron in a Shootout Hosted by Akari

Akari, the country’s top lighting and electrical brand, brings its Dual Power ambassadors, Kiefer Ravena and Jeron Teng to SM City Fairview on February 27, 2016 for a meet-and-greet. Aside from this, lucky Akari customers will get a chance to play alongside Kiefer and Jeron in a shootout.

Interested participants must make the qualifying purchase from February 16 to 26, 2016 in selected Ace Hardware stores for a chance to join this event. Aside from the opportunity for an interaction with Kiefer and Jeron, end-users who purchase P2,000 worth of Akari products will get an 8GB USB Card for free, while a purchase worth P1,000 will entitle them to an Akari USB Light.

Visit the nearest participating branch of Ace Hardware for a chance to get up close with today’s collegiate basketball superstars.

*This is Press Release

HISTORY®’s VIKINGS SEASON 4 STORMED ASIAN HOMES #1 series in its timeslot in Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines, drawing bigger audiences

The season four premiere of HISTORY’s critically acclaimed scripted drama series Vikings pummeled the competition on Friday night, as the #1 show in its timeslot beating all English language cable channels in Singapore, Malaysia (excluding Movies and Sports channels) and the Philippines (excluding Kids channels).

Singapore saw an increase of +320% Cable 15+ viewers, Malaysia drew in 218% more viewers aged 15+, while the Philippines brought in 644% more 25+ ABC1 audience on its debut night, all more than its prime time average.

The new season of Vikings will introduce its first Asian character, “Yidu”, who will play a pivotal role in the series. Asian-Canadian actress Dianne Doan joins the stellar cast as “Yidu”, the mysterious slave who fascinates Viking chieftain Ragnar.

Vikings season four airs as a same day telecast with the United States, every Friday at 9pm on HISTORY.
HISTORY™ is available on SKYCable Ch 67; Cable Link Ch. 43; Dream Satellite Ch 30; Destiny Cable Ch 57; and Cignal Ch 125.
Source: Kantar Media, Singapore, Kantar Media, Malaysia DTAM, Kantar Media, Urban Philippines. Vikings S4 Premiere Episode 1 timeslot on 19 February 10pm-11pm (SG/MY), 9pm-10pm (PH).HISTORY Prime average based on period 6pm-12mn (SG/PH) 1 Jan 2015-21 Feb 2016/20 Feb 2016 (MY)

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About HISTORY™ and HISTORY HD™

HISTORY™ and HISTORY HD™ are the leading destinations for entertaining hit series and revealing, award-winning event specials that connect history with viewers in an informative, immersive and fascinating manner across multiple platforms. Programming covers a diverse variety of genres ranging from real-life characters who bring history to life every day, to natural history, contemporary history, technology and science, as well as archaeology and pop culture. Hit series include Kings of Restoration, Pawn Stars, The Vikings, Ancient Aliens, Duck Dynasty, Counting Cars, Hidden Cities Extreme and Ride N’ Seek. For more information, please visit:

Homepage: www.historyasia.com
Facebook & Twitter: HistoryAsia


About A+E Networks®

A+E Networks® is one of the world's leading media companies and America’s second largest cable television network. A+E Networks’ channels are watched all over the world, reaching more than 330 million subscribers in over 200 territories. A+E Networks is a joint venture of Disney-ABC Television Group and Hearst Corporation. Its networks and divisions include A&E®, Lifetime®, HISTORY®, LMN®, bio.®, H2™, HISTORY en Español™, LRW®, Crime + Investigation™, Military HISTORY®, A&E IndieFilms®, A+E Networks International®, A+E Networks Digital®, and A+E Networks Consumer Products®.


*This is Press Release

‘Gindependence Day’ Invites All to Join the Revolution to a New Philippine Gin Culture

Ginebra San Miguel Inc. (GSMI) is brewing something new for 2016. Announcing, Gindependence Day! This is a celebration to mark the brand’s emancipation from the old and a welcoming of the new.

As the market leader in the gin category, Ginebra San Miguel is paving the way for a new mix of gin culture in the Philippines. Standing on its success and popularity in the mass market, the GSMI Gin Brands now plan to reach even greater heights by catering to more premium groups. With a lineup of never-before-done activities, GSMI Gin brands will connect with a wider audience and improve the gin experience as a whole. 


2016 KEY MESSAGE

Ginebra San Miguel is making new waves in the market with activations that will level up its image and brand perception for the market. From that gin brand known as for the old and mass market, GSMI is opening a new chapter for something more hip, fun and upscale. GSMI is not afraid to embrace change and create a revolution in the gin market. It’s time for the new. The time for gin is now!

GINEBRA SAN MIGUEL GIN: Feel the change

1. GANADO SA BUHAY THEMATIC CAMPAIGN

Our flagship brand Ginebra San Miguel is going through some interesting changes. After years of championing the hardworking Filipino working class, our brand of gin, which stands for The Filipino Fighting Spirit or “Ganado” will be talking to a younger market with its activations. This is to solidify our positioning for our future “Ganado” Filipinos.

In the past year, we created ads that showed a father passing the baton to his son who was looking for a job and keeping his spirits high amidst the disappointing reality of rejection. This year, we take on another journey with our market as we highlight a special segment in society, the Young Filipino OFW and his family. Our next TVC will showcase a story of a son and his father as they go through the real life drama that families encounter when someone is leaving. No matter how good the opportunity is, family members will still be affected when someone leaves. This became our inspiration in kicking off our advertising campaign for 2016. Our TVC called “Sepanx” or Separation Anxiety will surely melt your hearts and spark the flame of being “Ganado sa Buhay” anywhere you may be in the world. Ginebra San Miguel plays an integral role in the “Ganado” life of our core market.

2. GIN NATION CARAVAN

The “Ganado” spirit, which the brand espouses will be pushed to a more elevated experience, breathing new life to the brand. The Gin Nation Roving Caravan was created to guide and inspire people about the various ways that Ginebra San Miguel can be consumed. Participating in various university events and food festivals, the Gin Nation Roving Caravan is changing the way people drink Ginebra San Miguel from the ground up, one location at a time. We want to introduce Ginebra San Miguel to more and more Filipinos of all sectors, age and demographic.

Get ready to take the party on the road with our Gin Nation Roving Caravan. Our Gin Nation truck will be partnering with the metro’s hottest events and destinations like Mercato Centrale, Maginhawa Food Street, school events and concerts.  Together with the truck, Ginebra San Miguel also formulated five mixes that everyone can enjoy: Manila Sunrise, Blue Fizz, Mojito Slush, Sweet Lemony Martini and All Nighter. Each mix is tailor-fit for everyone’s taste. Apart from these unique mixes, we want to complete the drinking experience by adding acoustic performers that will give entertainment to our “Ganado” market. As we move on to the summer of 2016, we invite everyone to watch out for our Gin Nation Roving Caravan and join us in building a bigger and better Ginebra San Miguel. Like the “Ginebra San Miguel” Facebook page (www.facebook.com/barangayginebra) for details and schedules.

3. GINUMANFEST CONCERT SERIES

Summer is one of our favorite times of the year, when there are many festivities happening around the country. Ginebra San Miguel has been part of these celebrations for the past four years with the Ginumanfest Concert Series.

This is a concert series that tours the different regions of the Philippines, bringing top bands and performers to share their passion and the spirit of “Ganado sa Buhay” with everyone. Giving people samples of well-loved gin drinks, Ginumanfest is the biggest festival road show in the category covering destinations from Luzon to Mindanao. This is another festive year for the country and we are excited to again be part of the fun with our “Ganado” family.

4. GINEBRA SAN MIGUEL 3 ON 3 TOURNAMENT

Our Barangay Ginebra team plays a big role in the success of our brand, which is why we always have something in store for our fans. This summer, we will be going around different barangays to host a three-on-three competition where anyone above the age of 18 can participate. All they need to do is collect GSM Blue caps or Ginebra San Miguel seals to join with three of their friends.

These Barangay teams will battle it off to be their area’s representative for the national championships. The top 16 teams from the identified areas will face-off against one another in a championship tournament that will determine this year’s three-on-three national champion.

The inaugural qualifier will happen on March 12 at Santolan, Pasig City. Teams from Pampanga, Tarlac, Pangasinan Laguna, Quezon Province, Cavite, Bulacan, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Paranaque, Rizal, Pasay City, Cebu, Davao and Bacolod will have their respective qualifiers until May 7. The winning team from each area will get P3,000 plus GSMI products and a once in a lifetime chance to play for the national championships. Like the “Ginebra San Miguel” Facebook page, for more exciting news on this event.


*This is Press Release

Shop ‘til you drop with Araneta Center’s The Great Leap Year Sale

Here’s a fantastic way to spend the leap year: Shopping at Araneta Center’s The Great Leap Year Sale, where you can experience huge discounts while walking through shops jam-packed with sale items!
Experience a fun and affordable shopping spree and head over to Ali Mall, Gateway Mall and New Farmers Plaza on February 26-29, 2016 and shop ‘til you drop as you look through fabulous finds with prices up to 70% off!
Don’t miss out on Araneta Center’s awesome sale! Follow Araneta Center’s social media accounts at www.facebook.com/AranetaCenter on Facebook, @AranetaCenter on Twitter, and @thearanetacenter on Instagram for updates.

*This is Press Release

Philippines Hosts the 11th World Congress of the Club of the Most Beautiful Bays

This year, the 11th World Congress of the Club of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World was held in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro – the only member bay in the country included in the club of the Most Beautiful Bays. The congress served as an avenue for international stakeholders to discuss measures to fight climate change in order to protect the club’s member bays. Organized by the Puerto Galera Most Beautiful Bay Inc. (PGMBBI) in coordination with the Provincial Government of Oriental Mindoro, the Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board, the multi-faceted congress showcased Puerto Galera’s unique ecological and cultural assets through talks, island-hopping and excursions, and a visit to the Mangyans, among other activities. Photo shows: (L-R) Puerto Galera Mayor Hubbert Dolor, Governor of Oriental Mindoro Alfonso Umali, Jr., Presidential Adviser for Environmental Protection Sec. J.R. Nereus O. Acosta, Congress organizer Hubert D’Aboville, former President of MBBW Galip Gur, Setubal, Portugal Mayor Maria Das Dores Meira, newly elected President of MBBW and Yeosu Bay, Korea Mayor Cheolhyeon Ju.

Please refer to the Tourism Promotions Board

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Jr.NBA and Jr.WNBA Presented by Alaska search for best basketball players’ starts in Baguio

The Jr.NBA and Jr.WNBA Presented by Alaska starts its search for the best basketball players in the country when it holds its first Regional Selection Camp at the Benguet State University, Baguio on Feb. 20 and 21. Boys and girls may join the search for the ten best boy and five best girl basketball players who will become members of the Jr.NBA and Jr.WNBA All-Star team. There is also a search for the boys and girls coaches who will handle the two teams.

The All-Star Team will travel on an overseas for their NBA experience trip together with fellow Jr. NBA All-Stars from Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam and Indonesia. The 2015 Jr. NBA All-Stars traveled to China to watch the NBA Global Games in Shenzhen featuring the Charlotte Hornets and the L.A. Clippers.

The Jr. NBA and Jr. WNBA Presented by Alaska is free and open to boys and girls ages 10 to 14 years old (born 2002 to 2006). Interested parties may register at the venue in Benguet State University in Baguio or online through www.jrnba.asia/philippines. 

The Jr. NBA and Jr. WNBA Presented by Alaska is one of Alaska Milk’s programs that shape, train, challenge and inspire children to achieve their dreams and aspirations in life.

“These holistic programs train children to be confident, disciplined and hardworking because Alaska Milk Corporation aims to prepare them to be winners in life in the future. This year’s program includes new locations such as Batangas, Catanduanes and Cavite to reach more children and coaches and discover the best basketball players across the country,” said Blen Fernando, Marketing Director.

The 2011 National Nutrition Survey conducted by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) revealed that three out of ten children aged 5-10 years were underweight while eight out of one hundred children of the same age were overweight, making malnutrition and obesity two of the most pressing nutritional problems in the Philippines today.

The Jr.NBA and Jr.WNBA presented by Alaska is under Alaska Milk’s Nutrition.Action.Champion program. It helps address the issue of overweight and undernourished Filipino children with the promotion of proper nutrition and active lifestyle through sports and outdoor play.

This year’s program started with the tip-off at Don Bosco Technical Institute Makati last Jan. 23. School clinics, that teach the fundamentals of basketball, will run in April with stops in Bukidnon, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Dagupan, Davao, Iloilo, Metro Manila and Puerto Princesa. New locations include Batangas, Catanduanes and Cavite.

Other than Baguio there will also be Regional Selection Camps in Davao (Feb. 27-28),
Cebu (March 5-6) and Metro Manila (April 9-10).  The top 50 boys and 24 girls from the


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Award winning Filipino dance troop to perform at World Culture Festival

Over a hundred cultural performers from the multi-award Buyogan Festival from Leyte have been invited to perform at the upcoming World Culture Festival. The World Culture Festival is the largest gathering the world has ever seen, attracting millions from different cultures, nations and faiths uniting under the resounding message of One World Family. The group’s attendance will mark the first time that a representative from the Philippines will grace the global event which will be held on March 11-13, 2016 in New Delhi, India.
The Buyogan Festival is a group of cultural performers from Leyte, which was critically impacted by Typhoon Yolanda three years ago. They have won several championships at the Sinulog Festival and are proud to represent the nation in this historic event.
They have choreographed a special performance which is a tribute to the world for their help after Typhoon Hayien and also showing the resilience of the Filipinos moving from devastation to rehabilitation and to celebration.
The WCF is part of the 35th anniversary celebration of The Art of Living, a global movement founded by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.
Speaking on this grand celebration, World Culture Festival 2016, The Art of Living founder, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said, "We are a part of one humanity and we express ourselves differently through music, art and food. Celebrating our diverse cultures binds us together and expands our perspectives. The World Culture Festival emphasizes on co-existence, demonstrating the power of peace by bringing millions of people together. It is an opportunity for world leaders from cultural, social, political, business fields to come together to rekindle human values in the pursuit of happiness and peace."
​​The Art of Living is looking for generous benefactors and sponsors who would like to contribute and make the dream of the award-winning Buyogan Festival cultural performers to travel to India a reality.

The Buyogan Festival is a fiesta that is celebrated in the coastal town of Abuyong in Leyte, where the local buyog or bees take the spotlight as vibrant bee dancers perform during a grand parade. No doubt, it would be a shining moment for Tacloban—an area that has been reeling from challenges in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda—its people, and our nation as we showcase the best of the Philippines to the world.
‘World Culture Festival' (WCF) is expected to host millions of people from over 155 countries in New Delhi. The event is supported by the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Tourism and the Government of India.
 The 3-day grand festival will have a massive 7-acre stage to seat thousands of artists, dignitaries and guests as they witness the staging of a most impressive variety of music, dances and other art forms from India and across the globe, with the vision of preserving them for future generations. On all three days of the festival, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar will lead a ‘Peace Meditation’ which would be joined by millions from across the globe. 
Individuals and organizations who wish to know more on how they can support may call Kim Hartman at 0917 8480063. More info can be found at The Art of Living Philppines Facebook page, #wcf2016 #worldculturefestival. Help fund the initiative online at www.tinyurl.com/BuyoganToWCF. Learn more about the Art of Living at: www.artofliving.org or call 0917-840-0049  (02) 622-2566 for inquiries.
Several graduates of the Art of Living programs as well as those who are simply interested to be part of a Global Peace effort are also making plans to represent the Philippines and attend this historic event. Filipinos who have been keen to visit India may also see this as a great opportunity. The Art of Living Foundation can help with tour packages and travel arrangements.


About The Art of Living:
The Art of Living Foundation, founded by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in 1981, is a global movement, rekindling human values in the pursuit of happiness and peace. It works to bring peace at the level of the individual, society, nation and the world as a whole. Its areas of work cover conflict resolution, disaster and trauma relief, poverty alleviation, empowerment of women, prisoner rehabilitation, education for all, campaigns against female foeticide and environment sustainability. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is a universally revered spiritual and humanitarian leader. His vision of a violence-free, stress-free society through the reawakening of human values has inspired millions to broaden their spheres of responsibility and work towards the betterment of the world.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is engaged in peace negotiations and counselling in conflict zones around the world. His peace initiatives in Sri Lanka, Iraq, the Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Kashmir and Bihar have been widely acknowledged.  Present in 155​ countries, The Art of Living formulates and implements lasting solutions to conflicts and issues faced by individuals, communities and nations.  Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has reached out to an estimated 370 million people worldwide through personal interactions, public events, teachings, Art of Living workshops and humanitarian initiatives.
Learn more about this amazing event at www.worldculturefestival.com or call Kim Hartman at 0917 8480063 or 0917 8105990 for more info on how to join the Philippine delegation traveling to India.

Website: www.worldculturefestival.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/wcf2016
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheWorldCultureFestival


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