Royal Enfield opens its first exclusive store in Manila, Philippines

Royal Enfield, the fastest growing motorcycle brand in the world today opened its first exclusive store in Manila, Philippines located at 7462 Bagtikan Street, San Antonio Village, Makati City, Metro Manila as a part of its growth strategy in South East Asia. This is a part of Royal Enfield’s nodal city approach and focused international thrust of leading and expanding the global mid-sized motorcycle segment (250-750cc). The first exclusive store in Manila has been set up by the Hardcore Brothers Custom Motorcycles, Inc.

Speaking on Royal Enfield’s first exclusive store in Manila, Mr. Arun Gopal, Head International Business, Royal Enfield said “Royal Enfield is striving to provide an immersive retail experience for its customers that forms an integral part of the company’s core retail strategy, globally. Our store in Manila showcases the heritage and philosophy of Pure Motorcycling. The space has been designed not just as a point of purchase but as a meeting point for enthusiasts and for conversations around motorcycling.  The store will be retailing the full range of Royal Enfield motorcycles and gear and will be great starting point for them to experience the brand.”

Designed as a motorcycle enthusiast’s living room, the 972 sq.ft Royal Enfield store in Manila, has been created as per Royal Enfield’s new brand retail identity that showcases its philosophy of “Pure Motorcycling” in every aspect of the Royal Enfield ownership experience. The store features an interesting visual merchandising format and innovative product displays, which include the use of bits and bobs from Royal Enfield motorcycles and photo frames that speak of the Royal Enfield’s heritage. A full blown wall display of a stripped down Continental GT showcasing the bike’s internals and frame depicts machine love where the rider derives sensorial joy through tactile interplay with his motorcycle

Speaking on the Philippines market Arun said “At Royal Enfield, we feel that Philippines is an important emerging 2-wheeler markets in the south east Asia yet it is largely underserved in the mid-sized segment. With the commuter segment forming almost the entire 2-wheeler industry, Royal Enfield presents a huge opportunity for the customers to upgrade to more evocative motorcycles. It was here in Manila four years ago that Royal Enfield opened its first exclusive store in south-east Asia and now in a new brand retail identity, we are sure that customers will find the retail experience much more engaging and appealing”

Royal Enfield designs classic styled motorcycles that are simple, evocative, tactile and fun to ride, providing riders with a “Pure Motorcycling” experience. Blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology as a means to achieve the perfect balance between the man, machine and the terrain, Royal Enfield motorcycles create a unique experience for riders which is approachable and unintimidating.

In Manila, the Royal Enfield Bullet - world’s oldest motorcycle in continuous production since 1932, is available at a price of Php 295,000 for the Bullet 500cc and Php 151,500 for the 350cc variant. Royal Enfield’s retro street model, known for its post war, timeless styling - the Classic 500 is available for Php 313,000 and Php 196,500 for the 350cc variant. The most definitive highway cruiser, the Rumbler 500 is priced at Php 353,500 and the Royal Enfield Continental GT 535cc café racer is now available at a price of Php 353,500. All prices given are SRP

Speaking on Royal Enfield’s presence in Philippines, Jimmy L Barinaga, President & CEO Hardcore Brothers Custom Motorcycles Inc said “Royal Enfield has grown steadily from being practically an unknown player to becoming an aspirational brand after we introduced it four years ago in the Philippines. The timing is perfect for us to become a more meaningful player in this underserved mid-sized segment where we are providing customers with a differentiated motorcycling experience with our products. With Royal Enfield’s apparel and accessories (Gear), we will be able to provide motorcycling enthusiasts with a complete leisure motorcycling lifestyle in the country”

In addition to its entire line-up of products for Philippines, from its new store, Royal Enfield will also be retailing its latest range of motorcycle apparel and accessories (Gear). With Royal Enfield’s offering of purpose built, meticulously detailed and well crafted motorcycle gear, the riders will have a more enjoyable motorcycling experience.

The newly revamped Royal Enfield store located at Manila, is a full-service store and is equipped to provide service and aftermarket capabilities. Royal Enfield will work closely with Hardcore Brothers Custom Motorcycles, Inc to bring a differentiated experience for motorcycle enthusiast in the region.

During the 15 month period (Jan 2015 – Mar ’16) Royal Enfield sold over 600,000 motorcycles across the globe to support its global growth strategy and also announced its plan to sell 675,000 motorcycles for the 12 month period from April 2016 to March 2017. By 2018, Royal Enfield plans to manufacture and sell up to 900,000 motorcycles from two of its existing manufacturing facilities and a third upcoming facility, in Tamil Nadu, India. With a view to become the leader in the global mid-sized motorcycle industry, Royal Enfield is also building two new technology centres - one in India and one in UK, to enhance capability and execute long term product strategy. Royal Enfield recently announced its entry into Brazil along with the launch of its first subsidiary outside India in North America.

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About Royal Enfield:
The oldest motorcycle company in continuous production, Royal Enfield made its first motorcycle in 1901. A division of Eicher Motors Limited, Royal Enfield has created the mid-size motorcycle segment in India with its unique and distinctive modern classic bikes. With its new manufacturing base in Chennai, India, Royal Enfield is able to grow its production rapidly against a surge in demand for its motorcycles. With 50% growth every year for the last 3 years, Royal Enfield is fast becoming a very important player in the global mid-size motorcycle market and is working towards re-inventing this space with motorcycles that are evocative and engaging and great fun to ride.
Royal Enfield’s product line‐up includes the Bullet, Classic and Rumbler models in 500cc displacements; and the recently introduced Continental GT 535cc café racer. Royal Enfield operates through 18 company-operated stores and 500 dealers in all major cities and towns in India, and exports to over 50 countries across the world including the USA, Japan, UK, several European and Latin American countries, as well as the Middle East and South Asia.
Royal Enfield also organizes and supports many motorcycling events and rides , more prominently the Rider Mania – an annual gathering of Royal Enfield riders from all over India to the lovely beaches of Goa, and the Himalayan Odyssey, the most arduous motorcycle ride over some of the toughest roads and highest mountain passes in the Himalayas. Royal Enfield also conducts the popular ‘One Ride’ where people around the world ride out on their motorcycles on the first Sunday of April.
To know more about Royal Enfield, the motorcycles, marquee rides and other initiatives, visit: http://www.royalenfield.com/ph/
Be a part of one of the largest communities of motorcycling enthusiasts; like Royal Enfield on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RoyalEnfield
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https://twitter.com/royalenfield  

About Eicher Motors Limited:
Eicher Motors Limited (EML) is the flagship company of the Eicher Group, which was a catalyst in the green revolution in India with the production of India’s first agricultural tractor in 1959. EML is now a leading player in the Indian automotive space. Eicher Motors owns the iconic Royal Enfield motorcycle business, which leads the premium motorcycle segment in India. The oldest motorcycle brand in continuous production world-wide, Royal Enfield has witnessed a huge surge in demand in the recent past, and is charting its course to be the leading player in the mid-sized motorcycle segment globally. EML’s joint venture with the Volvo group, VE Commercial Vehicles Limited, designs, manufactures and markets reliable, fuel-efficient trucks and buses; and is leading the path in driving modernization in commercial transportation in India and other developing markets. EML’s joint venture with US based Polaris Industries Inc formed in 2012, Eicher Polaris Private Ltd. (EPPL) launched the Multix, a new 3-in-1 vehicle purpose built for the independent businessman in June 2015. For the fifteen months ended March 2016, Eicher Motors recorded its highest ever total income of INR 15,689 crores (USD 2.4 billion) and is listed on the Bombay and National Stock Exchanges. As of April 1st 2016, Eicher Motors Limited became a part of the Nifty 50 Index.


Disclaimer:
All statements included or incorporated by reference in this media release, other than statements or characterizations of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations, estimates and projections about our industry, management's beliefs and certain assumptions made by us. Although EML believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement was made, and EML undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. No assurance can be given that actual results, performance or achievement expressed in, or implied by, forward looking statements within this disclosure will occur, or if they do, that any benefits may be derived from them.


*This is Press Release

Ali Mall marks its 40th year

The Araneta Center celebrates the 40th anniversary of the iconic Ali Mall – the first-ever fully enclosed shopping mall in the country.

Named after the late legendary world heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali, Ali Mall was inaugurated on June 30, 1976 with Ali himself in attendance. Ali fulfilled his promise to return to the Philippines after winning against Joe Frazier in the “Thrilla in Manila” the year before and was the guest of honor at the event attended by VIPs, government officials, Araneta Center executives, and members of the Araneta family.

Though the concept of a mall has since evolved, Ali Mall was the first to house a Cineplex and to introduce the concept of a food court, located at the top most level beside the cinemas. Ali Mall also pioneered the integration of entertainment to the shopping experience with Skatetown, the largest indoor skating rink in its time. Another unique feature was a five-level car park connected to each floor of the shopping area. With its offerings and design features, Ali Mall changed the shopping experience by putting a premium on customer comfort and convenience and in the process melding itself to the lifestyle of its patrons with its choices of shopping, services, dining, and entertainment.

Four decades later, the mall still operates with the same guiding principle – to be a part of its guest’s lifestyle. As the mall evolved, it introduced, among others, the first digital cinemas in the country. Today, aside from offering a comfortable destination of value-for-money shopping options, Ali Mall also offers a wide array of dining choices fit for families and friends. The mall also features the convenience of the Government and Banking Center, a one-stop, full service venue that holds 10 government satellite outlets – including a Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) branch that handles passport and document processing and soon, a Land Transportation Office (LTO) branch and four full-service bank branches.

To celebrate four decades of being part of the Filipino lifestyle, Ali Mall will hold a special sale and offer promos on the weekend of its anniversary, from June 30 to July 3.

The shopping concept that Ali Mall pioneered has since become a blueprint for many other malls to emulate and build upon. Like its namesake, it carries a legacy that has touched the lives of many, and will continue to do so for years to come. 

As Araneta Center continues its redevelopment as a retail, office, entertainment, hospitality, and residential district, many new concepts are expected. Although Ali Mall will retain its standing as the country’s first mall, its claim will not solely be just being the first, it will continue to evolve, as it has done in the past to meet the needs of the lifestyle of its community.



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Former Ballerina Cathee Roslovtsev Opens Dance Studio at Sparta in Mandaluyong

Former Ballerina Cathee Roslovtsev has decided to fulfil her life-long dream of putting up a dance studio, which caters to children and adults alike.  The Elan Ballet and Pilates Studio is located at the second floor of SPARTA in Mandaluyong.  Formerly with the Philippine Ballet Theatre and presently an artistic council member of The Philippine Ballet Theatre, she will be using the Australian Conservatoire of Ballet training method for her ballet classes. 

The training method is a 12-year training method for the child, from 5-17 years old, wherein yearly, somebody from Australia will give the exam, to see if the child can move on to the next level.

Apart from Classical Ballet, she also offers Baby Ballet classes for kids from 3-5 years old, Mommy and Me Ballet classes for kids who are between 2-4 years old, while her Pre-primary Ballet classes on the other hand, targets kids who are at least 5 years of age.

According to Cathee, the values that kids can learn from ballet include, “Camaraderie, obedience, discipline, patience and perseverance.  All of these values can be learned while mastering the various techniques, like doing the pirouette.”

She also stresses the importance of learning Pilates for ballet students. 

Cathee, who is also a Certified Pilates Instructor, will also be offering Pilates with machine and mat.  “Pilates and dance go hand-in-hand.  Because with Pilates, the exercises are designed to restore the natural curves of the spine and it rebalances the muscles around the joint”, she says.

Cathee, who is very dedicated to her craft, was also very hands-on with the construction of the Dance Studio.  For instance, she had to install a special kind of flooring that helps cushion the knees and the joints, so when you do your jumps and your leaps, you don’t get injured.

Apart from Classical Ballet, The Dance Studio also offers Jazz, Street Dance, Tap, Salsa, Zumba, Pilates and Yoga for Special Kids.  She also has customized programs for her dance clients, Cathee adds, “Because each person has a diff body type.  So programs will be customised depending on what the client needs.”

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

TaskUs: Ridiculously Good

Ever since its inception in 2009, TaskUs has strived to be a ridiculously good company. Founded by business-savvy millennials Bryce Maddock and Jaspar Weir, TaskUs grew its humble five-man team and multiplied it to a thousand.

TaskUs started as a company with one goal: to provide assistance to busy and always on-the-go individuals. The company held on to that one goal, and as years went by, wrapped it up and made it even bigger and better. Boldly, TaskUs moved on from helping out individuals and began seeking out startups and rapidly-growing businesses that set their sights on making a difference in the world.

Making a difference in the world is a mutualistic endeavor. How? With its one-of-a-kind approach to outsourcing through customer service, revenue generation, and content management solutions, TaskUs keeps these businesses focused on the big picture. In turn, keeping the clients free to concentrate on true innovation is TaskUs’ big picture.

TaskUs believes that the secret ingredient to achieving this is the people. Its employees. Teammates, as they’re called. Whisk in a handful of TaskUs’ eight core values to the pot and we’ve got ourselves a winning combination.

Teammates deliver and get the work done in the most efficient way possible. They do not just settle for good; excellence is always what’s strived for. But perfection does not happen overnight, and every day must be considered a journey to continuous self improvement, mentally, physically, and emotionally.

TaskUs’ teammates are encouraged to do more with less because sometimes the best solutions come from thinking outside of the box. No matter how eccentric the ideas are, ridiculousness is embraced. With this kind of thinking instilled in even one teammate, it can grow and sprout in other teammates. That’s how inspiring others work. The result? One whole unified team that makes the TaskUs dream work.

At the end of the day TaskUs’ teammates know how to have fun through events such as Happy Hour and rewards that come in the form of beach trips. Everybody is expected to join in on the fun. It’s the TaskUs culture. It’s what makes TaskUs ridiculously good.

Best Places in the Philippines for Foreign Retirees

With 7,107 islands featuring gorgeous beaches, upland communities, and busy metropolises, the Philippines offers retirement options for almost any person of any lifestyle. Thousands of islands can be challenging to choose from, especially if you are a nonresident retiree. Fortunately, by taking into combined consideration cost of living, the presence of basic necessities, and the overall retirement atmosphere of an area, it becomes just a little bit easier to narrow the list down.

1. Imus, Cavite

Imus, Cavite. Photo by Ramon F Velasquez via Wikimedia Commons

Imus is an ideal retirement location because it is very close to Metro Manila (approximately 19 km south of the capital), giving foreign retirees a quiet suburb to live in that is not too far from the conveniences of the capital. Earning cityhood in 2012, Imus itself is not one to lack in lifestyle amenities, as it is currently home to 14 commercial centers. While very urbanized, Imus still retains most of its provincial charm. There are also a number of residential developments to choose from, a few of which are upcoming projects by Ayala Land, Vista Land, and Megaworld.

Rent per month: Range from Php4,000 for a two-bedroom townhouse to Php13,000 for a three-bedroom house and lot

Hospitals: 5

Commercial centers: 14

2. Bacoor, Cavite

Bacoor, Cavite. Photo by Lawrence Ruiz via Wikimedia Commons

Widely described as a bedroom community where many of its residents are employees who commute to and from Metro Manila, Bacoor is currently transitioning from being a mainly agricultural economy to one that’s focused on residential and commercial development. Property developers have been keen on developing projects in rural–urban fringes like Bacoor, which will become the future southern terminus of the Manila Light Rail Transit System. Also, part of the city will be traversed by the future Cavite–Laguna Expressway, making travel to nearby Laguna very easy.

Along with several shopping centers, the city has a number of resorts, cultural landmarks, and festivals. And similar to Imus, it is very near Metro Manila but still has a laidback, rural atmosphere, making it an ideal place for retirees.

Rent per month: Range from Php6,500 for a three-bedroom house to Php25,000 for a house in Avida Settings Cavite

Hospitals: 8

Commercial centers: 14

3. Tagaytay City

Taal Lake and Volcano as seen from Tagaytay Ridge. Photo via Shutterstock

While widely known as a tourist destination, Tagaytay City is also an ideal retirement destination thanks to its cool climate. Located in relatively short distance from Metro Manila, it is still far enough to provide the peace and quiet that many come to the area for—not to mention spectacular views of the Taal Lake and Volcano. Although Tagaytay’s popularity as a vacation spot makes it quite costly to live in compared to the other cities on this list, Cavite’s agricultural areas ensure that fresh produce here at least is very cheap. Further, if retirees suddenly feel a need to soak up some sun, the sandy coves of Nasugbu are just a short drive away.

Hospitals: 2

Commercial centers: 4 (including partially opened Twin Lakes’ retail area)

4. Cebu City

Downtown Cebu City. Photo via Shutterstock

Among the Philippines’ top three cities, Cebu may not seem like the best place for a retiree. But on the contrary, it is actually ideal because of the comprehensive urban amenities it offers. And being an island locale, it is very near a good number of tropical resorts and natural attractions, including the white sand beaches of Mactan Island. Properties can sometimes be a little costly in Cebu given that it is a major city, but this also means that there are many options available in various estates developed by some of the country’s biggest real estate companies.

Rent per month: Range from Php18,000 for a two-bedroom townhouse in Lahug to Php140,000 for a five-bedroom house in Banilad

Hospitals: At least 16 major hospitals

Commercial centers: 29

5. Santa Rosa, Laguna

Santa Rosa City poblacion area. Photo by Ramon FVelasquez via Wikimedia Commons

Another area predominantly serving as a suburban residential community of Metro Manila, Santa Rosa is situated a mere 38 kilometers south of the National Capital Region. The premiere city and hub of South Luzon, the city is often called the Makati of the South due to its economic activity sans the density and level of urbanization. The city is popular for being the location of Nuvali, a massive estate developed by Ayala Land. Sta. Rosa is also home to a number of special economic zones, industrial parks, and master-planned communities resulting in the increase of the city’s comprehensive modern amenities.

Rent per month: Range from Php19,000 for a newly built house in Avida Parkway to Php80,000 for a five-bedroom house in Pramana Residential Estates

Hospitals: 9

Commercial centers: 11

6. Calamba, Laguna

View of Mount Makiling from Calamba. Photo via Shutterstock

Calamba is often referred to as the Resort Capital of the Philippines because of its many hot spring resorts located on the slopes of Mount Makiling. However, the city has as of late come to be known as a residential destination as well, thanks to the emergence of developments like Ayala-Greenfield Estates and Ciudad Verde.

To complement the resort-like living retirees can enjoy in Calamba, its local economy is fueled by a number of lifestyle and commercial centers, providing residents’ basic needs. If the city gets too crowded for a retiree’s liking, however, the very laid-back campus of the University of the Philippines Los Baños and the National Arts Center are just a short drive away.

Rent per month: Range from Php8,000 for a one-bedroom house to Php150,000 for a six-bedroom house in Brgy. Canlubang

Hospitals: 10

Commercial centers: 9

7. Subic Freeport Zone, Zambales

Subic Bay. Photo via Shutterstock

Renowned for being a former overseas U.S. military installation, the Subic Freeport Zone the Philippines. Along with its duty-free shopping, there are also a number of great schools, hospitals, and hotels and resorts in the city. While there is plenty to do and see is perfect for foreign retirees who want to continue their American suburban lifestyle in in the Freeport Zone, probably one its biggest draws as a retirement area is the location’s cleanliness and orderliness.

Hospitals: 3

Commercial centers: 5

8. Dumaguete City

Dumaguete City. Photo via Shutterstock

More popularly known as the “City of Gentle People,” Dumaguete City is the capital and primary seaport of Negros Oriental. Typical of a provincial capital of an island province, the city is full of beach resorts and dive sites, and is considered one of the best places for beachfront living on a budget. In fact, the city was listed among some of the most affordable and ideal places to retire to in the 2014 Retire Overseas Index.

Rent per month: Range from Php13,000 to Php18,000

Hospitals: 3 (tertiary)

Commercial centers: 5

9. Bacolod City

Bacolod City. Photo via Shutterstock

Identified by the Department of Science and Technology as a center of excellence for business process outsourcing (BPO) and information technology, the city hosts a number of BPO companies and voice call centers. While this has resulted in rapid urbanization, sugarcane plantations and heritage houses are still typical sights in the city. Like the island locale that it is, Bacolod also has a number of beach and resort properties suitable for retirement.

Hospitals: 10

Number of malls/commercial centers: 20

10. Cagayan de Oro City

Cagayan de Oro Press Freedom Monument. Photo by Amarkgio via Wikimedia

Cagayan de Oro City has long been Mindanao’s melting pot. Situated along the northern shores of the island, its economy is driven by agricultural activity and real estate developments, most notably commercial and leisure projects. However, the city also offers plenty of natural attractions, including white-water rafting in Cagayan de Oro River.

While highly urbanized and currently ranked the 10th most populated city in the Philippines, Cagayan de Oro is ideal for retirement thanks to still being somewhat rural and laid-back but also being a place with plenty of leisure and medical facilities. The city is also very accessible, with regular scheduled flights to Manila, Cebu, and Davao.

Rent per month: Range from Php16,000 for a fully furnished three-bedroom house to Php90,000 for a five-bedroom, 400-sqm house

Hospitals: 11

Commercial centers: 18

11. Davao City

Davao City’s Chinatown. Photo by Shubert Ciencia via Wikimedia

Arguably Mindanao’s commercial and business center, Davao City is a budding business hub and a popular tourist destination that many expat retirees have chosen as their retirement destination. It helps that the United States, Japan, Palau, and Malaysia have consular offices here. For such a fast-growing city, the cost of living in Davao is relatively affordable. The city is served by an international airport with regular scheduled flights to Manila, Cebu, and even Singapore, while it is also a jump-off point to Samal Island for those who would like a weekend R&R.

Rent per month: Range from Php18,000 to Php90,000

Hospitals: 31

Commercial centers: 18

12. Baguio City

Baguio City. Photo via Shutterstock

Although Baguio City has experienced rapid urbanization in the last two decades, the City of Pines has retained most of its old charm. It continues to have the trappings of a highland resort, such as quaint B&Bs, cozy cafés, breezy tourist spots, and fresh produce from neighboring La Trinidad Valley. This, coupled with the cool climate, makes the city popular with vacationers and retirees alike. Although it is significantly smaller than other cities like Manila or Cebu, it is by no means inconvenient. It has a good number of commercial centers, BPO centers, good schools, and hospitals within its boundaries.

Rent per month: Range from Php13,000 to Php110,500 for a forest cabin-style property

Hospitals: 5

Commercial centers: 6

13. Tagum City

Kayaking in Nabintad River, Tagum City. Photo by S5Switch via Wikimedia Commons

Although this city has always been overshadowed by its more popular neighbor Davao City, Tagum (the provincial capital of Davao Del Norte) has been getting a lot of attention in recent years. It is cited as one of the most livable cities in the Philippines, and is home to a number of festivals including one that celebrates music and another that celebrates bananas (one of its main crops is the beloved fruit enjoyed all over the world). The city also has a number of good hospitals, branches of national banks, tertiary schools, and shopping centers, and is conveniently accessible to Davao’s international airport through the Pan-Philippine Highway.

Hospitals: 6

Commercial centers: 4

14. Lipa City

Lipa City’s poblacion area. Photo by Ramon FVelasquez via Wikimedia Commons

A recreational, religious, commercial, industrial, and educational center for the province of Batangas, Lipa City offers an adequate deal of urban amenities set upon a rural backdrop. Its location between Mount Malarayat and Mount Makulot gives it a relatively cooler climate compared to its neighboring towns, making it an ideal location for leisure estates that target vacationers and retirees alike. It is home to a number of health resorts, golf estates, and gated communities.

Rent per month: A typical newly built, three-bedroom house rents for Php25,000

Hospitals: 10

Commercial centers: 2 (major shopping malls)

15. Batangas City

Port of Batangas. Photo via Wikimedia Commons

The largest city and provincial capital of Batangas, it is deemed as one of the fastest growing cities in the Philippines. Dubbed as the industrial port city of the CALABARZON region, Batangas City’s economy is mainly driven by trade, services, and manufacturing. Despite all this, the city is still relatively laid-back. Living in Batangas City gives retirees a central location that is accessible to beach resorts and trek sites. It is also the jump-off point to Puerto Galera in Mindoro Island.

Rent per month: A typical newly built, three-bedroom house rents for Php25,000

Hospitals: 5

Commercial centers: 9

VXI opens flagship facility in Pasay, eyes one or two more by yearend

Pasay City, Philippines, 15 June 2016—Contact center solutions provider VXI Global Solutions recently opened its flagship facility in Pasay—its seventh in the Philippines—and is looking at opening one or two more by end of this year.

Speaking to the local media during the facility’s grand opening at the Five E-Com Center located at the Mall of Asia Complex in this city, Jared Morrison, Senior Vice President and Country Manager for the Philippines of VXI Global Holdings B.V. Philippines, Inc., said they are already in the market scouting for two more additional locations.

Morrison said among those locations are one at the National Capital Region (NCR) and another provincial site. He mentioned that they’ve already looked at the Next Wave Cities list of the Department of Science and Technology-Information and Communications Technology Office (DOST-ICTO) and the Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) for possible locations.

“We’ve seen the list and we’ve already sat down with our real estate consultants. Right now, we’re developing strategies on where to locate next,” explains Morrison.

He added that VXI will make the announcement on the new expansion location, whether in the NCR or in the province, by the end of this year and the next one by early next year.

Davao City was mentioned as a possible provincial site again since VXI already has an existing facility there. “Of course Davao is also still possible but we don’t want to compete with ourselves. However, if there’s room for one more there, then we’d love to go to Davao,” he said.

The Pasay site, costing around an estimated Php 185 million to build and will house more than 1,000 employees, is already filled to about 80% of its total capacity and Morrison said they expect to be fully loaded by the end of this year as well.

But what’s even more exciting is the fact that the new facility will provide additional jobs for those interested to work in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry. Last year, Morrison said VXI paid a total of close to Php 3 billion in salaries and this facility will definitely add up to that total.

“VXI has an excellent service track record with our clients and they are demanding more of our services so we have to develop an excellent talent pool, which we compensate with above-industry standard pay, including other exceptional benefits. People work for us and stay long with us because they see opportunities for career advancement and growth, the chance to lead people. That’s the value that VXI offers in terms of jobs for those who want a career in the BPO industry,” Morrison added.

VXI has more than 21,000 people working around the world with office in the US, China and of course the Philippines. More than 40% of its global employee footprint is based in the Philippines. The company started with only 590 employees in 2003 and grew at an average of 30% per annum, and now has more than 10,000 employees as of June this year working in its facilities in Makati, Ortigas and Quezon City . Last year, VXI grew its headcount in the Philippines by 16% from 2014.

VXI provides call center and ITO services in more than 25 languages for leading global Fortune 500 companies. Its partners rely on a complete range of contact center and technology solutions to retain and grow their customer base while maintaining the highest level of quality and operational excellence.

For more about VXI, visit www.vxi.com

WORLD SERIES OF FIGHTING - GLOBAL CHAMPIONSHIP now have Exclusive Japanese Partnership with DEEP Fighting Championships

One of the interesting items about this new relationship points towards WSOF-GC qualifiers, as well as a potential tournaments to be dubbed “The Road to WSOF-GC”. This gives young, up-and-coming fighters an opportunity to know that they will be able to compete on international events outside of Japan and test their skills against some of the best fighters around the globe. Additionally, it was announced that DEEP’s end of year event would contain three WSOF Global title fights. The Road to WSOF-GC championship gold is now paved. Fans from Japan can look forward to a very fun, exciting end of year event between these two promotions.

Speaking shortly before the big announcement to the press, Saeki said, “I am very happy and thrilled about DEEP FC forming a partnership with WSOF-GC. I would like to thank both President Shawn Wright and Vice-President Jason Lilly for considering working with us. Moving forward, a 15-year old MMA promotion DEEP FC would like to provide all the support necessary to help them achieve success in Asia. Let's work together to achieve our goals!”

                “DEEP is the premier fight league in Japan. Their consistent level of quality events and premium fighters attests to that,” states WSOF-GC Vice President of Operations, Jason Lilly. “Many great fighters have come through DEEP to go on to the UFC, such as Shinya Aoki and Ryo Chonan. Invicta’s reigning Atomweight Champion, Ayaka Hamasaki, also came up through the DEEP ranks, as did our own 125-pound star, Yusaku Nakamura. Even the legendary Akihiro Gono has competed for them. Whereas we now have this partnership in place, this is not to exclude DEEP fighters from having other opportunities outside of both of our organizations. It’s our mutual goal to promote these fighters and help prepare them for the next level, wherever that may be.”

                “I am truly honored and humbled to be welcomed in Japan by Mr. Saeki,” elated WSOF-GC President, Shawn Wright. “We promoted our first Global event in Japan earlier this year and now know that we have a strong, strategic partner to assist us to continue to grow our brand here. DEEP is not only the premier organization in Japan, but also one of the very best in the world. I foresee this being a mutually beneficial relationship for both parties and I could not be more excited about this announcement.”

DEEP will be hosting DEEP76 Impact on Sunday, June 26 from Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, featuring a 155lb title fight between the legendary Satoru Kitaoka against Kota Shimoishi. DEEP has hosted over 300 events since their inception in 2001. These fights will slowly be making their way into the WSOF Global Fight Library at wsofgc.com, as will future fights be made available to fans who can follow the growth of these two organizations together. MMA fans can watch all of their fights, as well as those from all other affiliates for only $4.99 per month at WSOFGC.com.

                World Series of Fighting Global’s ultimate mission is to bring together the best athletes from countries and organizations across the world to compete for a true, globally-recognized world champion. Media inquiries should be sent to Jason Lilly, Vice President of Operations of World Series of Fighting Global, at jlilly@wsof.asia. Follow them on Twitter @WSOFGlobal


About DEEP Fighting Championships:

Founded in 2001 by the promoter Shigeru Saeki, DEEP Fighting Championships (DEEP FC) is a championship Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) series dedicated to not just showcasing the top MMA athletes in Asia but also promote the sport with many interesting and experimental approaches - promote both ring and cage events, resurrect the careers of big-name stars, provide athletes from other sports such as kick boxers, sumo wrestlers, pro-wrestlers, and ex-pro baseball players, the opportunity to test their skills in MMA. Also, DEEP implement various rules from North American unified rules, PRIDE rules to Kick Boxing and Shoot Boxing rules.

The operation is based in Tokyo and Nagoya, Japan, DEEP FC is one of the longest running premier MMA promotions in the world.

In addition to MMA series, DEEP FC also promotes grappling series named DEEP X, kick boxing series named DEEP KICK, and senior fighters' series named DEEP HERO and "Oyaji" DEEP.

DEEP FC is currently broadcasted by Sky Perfect TV / Fighting Network Samurai in Japan, Fight Network in Canada and UK, and recently, inked the deal with Abema TV, an internet TV station created by TV Asahi and Cyber Agent. Abema TV will broadcast all of DEEP FC's "Number Series" events and "Cage Impact Series" event starting from DEEP 76 on June 26th, 2016.

Efes Pilsener now in the Philippines

The name Efes has been synonymous with beer in Turkey since their Pilsener hit the scene in 1969. Made with malts produced in Efes’s own malteries, this brew presents a quintessential German-style Pilsner appearance in the glass: pure golden in color with nice clarity, capped by a bright white head of foam that drops some lace as it recedes. On the nose, expect a lightly sweet pils malt aroma, while the noble hops offer up a fairly grassy and somewhat floral character with just a touch of fruitiness tending toward lemon. As it opens on the palate, it’s all about the crackery pils malt, with its typical lightly sweet, papery, and grainy personality.

The mild residual sweetness quite pleasant, and balanced well by the Hallertau hops which firm up and come in to dry out the finish.  Light in body, but very smooth and creamy on the palate, it closes crisp, per the style.

Enjoy and taste this superb Liquid Sunshine - Cheers!

*This is Press Release

On My way Cafe Lupe This Weekend!

This will be my first time to stay in Cafe Lupe and I am pretty excited as well as the other participant/bloggers that will share the weekend party and relaxation where the stars are in Antipolo.

Cafe Lupe has been one of the nice places to stay if you'd like to visit places in Antipolo, very accessible because it is just along Sumulong Highway next to the popular restaurants in the same area.

I'm excited to learn about the place as well as bond with other members of the qualified bloggers. Watch out for my review and blog about it next week!

Make your day more flavorful with Gardenia

Make your day more flavorful anytime of the day with a bite of your favorite dessert made with your favorite bread!
Who can resist a succulently smooth, creamy and caramel-y Gardenia Amazing Butterscotch loaf filled with flavorful butterscotch chips? And hey, did you know that this can be transformed to another sweet pick?

Try this easy-to-create sans rival using Gardenia Butterscotch:
 Gardenia Butterscotch Mango Sans Rival

Ingredients:

3 pcs Butterscotch Loaf
¼ cup butter
1 tbsp ripe mango, sliced
1 tbsp nuts, chopped
2 pcs chocolate bars
1 tbsp powdered Sugar – 1 tbsp

Procedure:

1. Get 3 slices of Gardenia Amazing Butterscotch Loaf and trim the sides.
2. Combine butter, evaporated milk and powdered sugar until becomes smooth.
3. Spread the butter cream mixture into the trimmed breads then put sliced ripe mangoes on top and sprinkle chopped nuts. 4. Stack all breads onto each other. Spread the butter cream on the bread sides and apply nuts.
5. Chill overnight.
6. Serve and enjoy!


Wait, there’s more! Gardenia’s amazing flavored line has also a black forest loaf, a lusciously soft, moist bread rich in chocolate filling, laden with sweet, succulent cherries.

More exciting and innovative recipes using Gardenia breads can be discovered! Just visit www.gardenia.com.ph or follow www.facebook.com/gardeniaph



*This is Press Release

Essilor Launches Interactive New Website

To help and guide consumers in understanding and finding the best solutions for their eye problems, Essilor, the world leader in corrective ophthalmic lenses, has launched a newly designed website at www.essilor.com.ph.  The website is more than just an educational portal on vision and eye care, it also offers a comprehensive guide to help consumers find the best and most suitable solutions for their vision problems. Like blurred vision. Poor night vision. Eyes that feel tired almost all of the time. Frequent eye exposure to the sun.  Poor vision for your school-age kid.

The website makes it very easy for consumers to choose the lenses they need. Click on the “Products” section to see the entire brand portfolio under Essilor: Crizal for clearest vision; Crizal Transitions for optimum vision solutions both indoors and out;  and Varilux as the #1 progressive lenses for smooth transition from distance through intermediate and near visions.  Then there’s Crizal Eyezen for connected people who frequently use digital devices;  Xperio for polarized sunwear for best protection and comfort outdoors; Optifog for long lasting fog-free vision; and Myopilux for the most effective myopia control lens available. 

Within the section, consumers can easily choose from lenses which have been carefully classified according to Age, Need, and Activity.   For instance, if you click on Age, you can choose from lenses for kids, young adults, adults and senior adults.  If you’re looking for lenses based on Needs, you can choose from UV protection, blue light protection, reduce glare, fog resistance, distance vision and even eye strain prevention, among other issues. Or if you require lenses based on Activity, you simply click on any of the following: reading, driving, computer use, and playing sports. Simply click on the relevant item and the website will recommend lenses based on your requirement.  

Easy-to-understand information on vision is discussed on the “Learn about Vision” landing page. “All About Your Eyes” gives facts and trivia about the eyes, eyesight and vision problems, while “Age And Your Vision” discusses eyesight conditions and problems through the different life stages. The “All About Lenses” subsection shares the types and functions of lenses and gives details on caring for these lenses and the possible conditions that may occur upon using them.

Imparting the significance of proper eye care is also a top priority.  The “Eye Care” subsection goes through each symptom, condition, sickness, cause and preventive measure for vision problems comprehensively, and even has a page devoted to the latest news in eye care and vision research. Finally, “Visiting Your Eye Doctor” explains the critical role of eye care professionals in vision care. This is helpful for site users who are planning to have their first-ever optical check-up and trying to find the best vision solutions for eye problems.

The new website also now includes a dedicated locator, powered by Google, for visitors to easily find the licensed vision care clinic or optical shop nearest them. Each page in the website also has contact functions to allow customers to reach out to the wide network of eye care professionals accredited by Essilor Philippines.

Visit the new website now and learn more about what Essilor can do for you at www.essilor.com.ph. You can also visit the Essilor Philippines Facebook page at www.facebook.com/essilorph.


About Essilor
The world’s leading ophthalmic optics company, Essilor designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of lenses to improve and protect eyesight. Its corporate mission is to enable everyone around the world to access lenses that meet his or her unique visual requirements. To support this vision, the Company allocates over €160 million to research and development every year, in a commitment to continuously bring new, more effective products to market. Essilor’s flagship brands are Varilux®, Crizal®, Transitions®, Xperio® and OptifogTM.
It also develops and markets equipment, instruments and services for eyecare professionals.
Essilor reported consolidated revenue of €4.9 billion in 2012 and employs around 50,700 people in some 100 countries. It operates 19 plants, a total of 390 prescription laboratories and edging facilities, as well as several research and development centers around the world.
Essilor was classified by Forbes magazine as being among the world’s 30 most innovative companies.
For more information, please visit www.essilor.com.ph.

*This is Press Release

Foreign Fighters Reigns again at UGB 15: Foreign Invasion 2

UGB 15: ‘Foreign Invasion’ 2 took place at the Don Bosco Technical College last June 24. It showcases top Filipino fighters against their counterparts from the USA, UAE, UK, and Singapore.

The event is a follow-up to the hugely successful Foreign Invasion 1, which crowned new champions in American Brad Robinson and Pakistanis Uloomi Karim and Ahmed Mujtaba.

Joining together with the champions are the new Lightweight Matthew McGrigor and Light Heavyweight Mike St. Claire.

A night of awesome MMA action and Rock & Roll Music. Six viewer won free tickets to the big show on July 30 where he or she can take home P1 million in cash!

Event was made possible by UGB MMA Corp. is the Official Licencee of WSOF-Global and Fitbox Fitness and Boxing Gym (UGB MMA Corporate Partner)

Pharex 15-day Compliance Pouch for Cholesterol

60% of patients with heart disease fail to comply with their medication, study shows

For patients with cardiovascular disorders, adherence to medication goes a long way in ensuring that their health is in its tiptop condition. However, 60 percent of these patients are not complying with the medication as prescribed by their doctors, according to a study.

Published in the American Heart Association, the study revealed that non adherence to medication remains to be a major problem for cardiovascular patients, often leading to poor clinical outcomes, frequent hospitalizations, and increased mortality.

To prevent the worst consequences of heart disease, expert says that religious compliance to medication should be a top priority—starting from curbing the risk factors associated with the disorder.

“One of the risk factors for developing heart disease is having high blood cholesterol levels, which increases the risk of formation of plaques and atherosclerosis,” said Dr. Amado Nazal, medical director of Pharex HealthCorp. “If our patients will comply with their medication from the moment their doctors instructed them to lower their cholesterol levels, then we will be able to keep their condition from worsening.”

He added, “We believe that many patients fail to adhere to their medication because of the costs that come with it. However, medication need not be expensive. This is why at Pharex, we provide optimum health assistance to these patients through maintenance medicines that are not only of high quality but also affordable.”

Pharex HealthCorp., the most prescribed brand of medicines, offers quality maintenance medicines that are designed to help curb high cholesterol levels at an affordable price.

With the Pharex 15-day Compliance Pouch for Cholesterol, patients will be able to comply with their medication to prevent tendencies of having chronic cardiovascular diseases.

“Fat as a result of bad cholesterol can build up on the walls of your heart’s arteries, which suppresses the smooth blood circulation that’s crucial to our body system’s functions,” Nazal said.

When arteries are narrowed down or blocked, the heart will not be able to pump blood to the other parts of the body, Nazal added. “Too much cholesterol weakens our heart, therefore putting to risk our lives.”

“With the new Pharex 15-day Compliance Pouch for Cholesterol, we are assuring patients of three things: first, they can conveniently bring their medicine whenever and wherever they go as it is packed in a resealable foil pouch. Second, it’s affordable and accessible to leading drugstores nationwide.Lastly, healthcare professionals proved and tested the effectiveness of the medicine, making it a top choice for people who have high cholesterol levels,” said Nazal.

Nazal concluded, “Failure to comply with medication could cost our lives more than we realize. Now that the new Compliance Pouch for Cholesterol is here, patients will be more able to improve the quality of their lives without the added costs.”

The new Pharex Compliance Pouch is available in all leading drugstores. For more
information, please contact 4338088 (local 820).

1st BusinessWorld Economic Forum

The country’s biggest names in business will speak at the first BusinessWorld Economic Forum happening on July 12, 2016 at Shangri-La at the Fort in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Themed “Charting Progress to 2020”, the highly anticipated event will tackle the country’s present and projected economic situation in light of the forthcoming changes in public governance.

Vice President-elect Maria Leonor “Leni” G. Robredo will open the morning sessions with the topic on “How To Attain Inclusive Economic Growth” while incoming Department of Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez will start the afternoon sessions with the discussion on “The Philippine Economy Under the New Presidency.” MVP Group of Companies Chairman Manny V. Pangilinan will be delivering the keynote speech.

Also speaking at the event are Philippine Competition Commission Chairperson Arsenio M. Balisacan and Securities & Exchange Commission Chairperson Teresita J. Herbosa. 

Other prominent business figures who will serve as session speakers include Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. President & Chief Executive Officer Erramon I. Aboitiz,  Insular Life Assurance Company CEO Nina D. Aguas, Globe Telecommunications President Ernest Cu, Phinma Corporation President Ramon R. del Rosario, Ayala Corporation Energy Holdings, Inc. President & CEO John Eric T. Francia, Solar Philippines President Leandro Leviste, ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation Chief Digital Officer Donald Patrick Lim, Sun Life Financial President and CEO Rizalina G. Mantaring, McKinsey & Company Managing Partner Suraj Moraje, Megaworld Corporation First VP Commercial Division Kevin L. Tan, Rustan Supercenters, Inc. President  Bienvenido V. Tantoco III, McDonalds Philippines EVP & Deputy Managing Director Margot Torres,  Alaska Corporation President and CEO Wilfredo Steven Uytengsu Jr., as well as Facebook Canada Global Marketing Solutions Group Director Alfredo C. Tan.
 

The speakers will provide their expert viewpoints on the forum’s five discussion sessions: succession, sustainability, integration, disruption, and capacity. The session on succession is expected to encourage discourse and provide answers on how the country can prepare its next generation leaders. Sustainability will discuss how the corporate sector ensures the sustainability of financial gains. The session on Integration will focus on the business imperatives of regional integration and is expected to address questions on how the country can leverage on free trade agreements (FTAs) to broaden its market and product or service offerings as well as how economic integration be made more inclusive.  Disruption will explore how technology has blurred the distinctions between industries and will explore the questions on which industries are due for a shakeup and how companies wage competition across multiple fronts. The last session is on capacity which aims to highlight the way companies address the challenge of infrastructure and supply bottlenecks in a growing economy.

The session topics are crucial to understanding, predicting and influencing the Philippines’ business and economic growth today and in the coming years.

Organized by BusinessWorld, the country’s leading business daily, this event is in line with its 29th anniversary and is open to the public. The first BusinessWorld Economic Forum is brought to you by Metrobank, Turkish Airlines in partnership with Ayala Land, Inc., PLDT Inc., Smart Communications, and Meralco. For more information, please visit www.bweconomicforum.com, e-mail to norelyn@fmi.com.ph or call 896-0639 / 896-0637.


*This is Press Release