SME CONTACT CENTERS UNITE

EXPERIENCE BEAUTY
THE ART & SCIENCE OF

PHILCALL LEVELS THE FIELD Page 4

Page 8

DEALING WITH WORK

&DIABETES
Page 6

DAVAO BPO PAYS BELOW MINIMUM WAGE

Page 4

Publishers Note

Filipino IT-BPO Heroes THE LOOK AND FEEL OF THE OUTSOURCING INDUSTRY

I especially like Convergyss recent campaign of portraying their employees as heroes, for their contribution to the Filipino family and the Philippine economy. I commend this campaign because for over a decade the economical impact of the people of the IT-BPO industry has been mostly unsung. In fact its majority call center agents have been slandered, maligned, and insulted by the very society it contributes to, making this campaign a refreshing reversal. I myself would like to point out another hero the Filipino IT-BPO entrepreneur. Perhaps unnoticed for over a decade now, Filipino owned IT-BPO companies have been slugging it out with multinational giants like Sykes, Teleperformance, and Convergys. Most of these Filipino owned companies have either merged or been bought out by foreigners. Right now, the ones left are on the SME (small and medium enterprises) scale, the likes of Pilipinas Teleserv and Magellan Solutions both 100% Filipino owned. I believe that it is a heroic effort that they continue to compete on a global level. Last year, the IT-BPO industry bagged a gross of US $ 13.5 billion. My question is how much of these billions stay in the country. I suppose, a huge chunk of the net profit goes back to foreign stakeholders based overseas. I have nothing against this as this is their right. However, I want to give honor and distinction to the Filipino Entrepreneurs in the IT-BPO industry as their 100% pinoy owned companies ensure that most of their earnings stay in our country. For more on this, please read our article on Philcall, an association of 100% Filipino owned IT-BPO companies on pages four to five. I hope we could see more of these companies in the future, as I believe that 100% Filipino owned companies can beat multinational counterparts, and that seeing a better saturation of Filipino owned companies will mean more Filipinos will feel the benefits of the IT-BPO industry. It is also my hope that the government would give more support to these Filipino companies on a policy level. At the greatest rate, I would like to take this opportunity to give my highest respect and sincerest salute to todays unsung economic hero the IT-BPO entrepreneur. Respectfully

Pio Granada
Publisher

Bayan dela Cruz

Editor in Chief

Brian Lu
Business Development Director

Ruby Diaz
Advertising Manager

Xian Anzures
Managing Editor

Contributors Writers
David Montecillo Greg Yan

Photographers
Rap Yu

Layout and Design

Jiar Castillo

Pio Granada
The Publisher

Editors Note

With each release of the magazine we have been hard at work realigning our content to match the industrys agenda and the `dynamic IT-BPO culture. In this issue, we have prepared a guide to go to Puraran, Virac and Caramoan in our travel section. In our health section, we have an article about coping with work and diabetes, as well as using meditation to help you reboot your body.

magazine is published by Gorilla Trading. For advertising & printing please call: 355-9811 Email: aftercallmag@yahoo.com Website: www.aftercallmag.com

ON THE COVER

We want to break all the myths, the prejudices and misconceptions that society harbors about the industry. This is why we would like to extend our invitation for you to forward your success stories to us. You may contact us through e-mail at aftercallmag@yahoo.com or hit us up on facebook: www.facebook.com/ AfterCallMag. We would also want to encourage IT-BPO professionals to contribute to the magazine either as writers, photographers, and models or suggest topics for the magazine, as we want the magazine to continue to be the true blue IT-BPO magazine by the BPO people for the BPO people. Thanks,

Bayan Dela Cruz Editor-in-Chief

PHOTOGRAPHER: RAP YU MODEL: THERLYN ALCUITAS STYLIST: SKY GAVIN HAIR & MAKE-UP: TONI RODRIGUEZ

The Office

SME CONTACT CENTERS UNITE

PHILCALL LEVELS THE FIELD

he Philippine Call Centers Alliance, Inc. (PhilCall) is a newly organized association of SME (Small to Medium enterprises), Filipino-owned call centers all over the country. The organizations operating philosophy is to set a high standard of customer relations management and professional ethics among its members; to be in the forefront of instituting industry alliances and linkages; and bring into the national and international path the added value of working with SME Call Centers. PhilCalls key objective is to serve as a prime catalyst for continuous advocacy and reforms for industry development.
Business Process Outsourcing has developed into a major driver of performance and strategic transformation in businesses today. With the countrys rapid BPO industry growth estimated at 40-50% annually, the Philippines is strategically poised to seize a bigger stake in the global outsourced service business with its large pool of highly skilled, English-speaking and customer service oriented workforce. The Philippine BPO scenario has evolved beyond its established model of international companies operating with a thousand-seat capacity. Small & medium home grown contact centers nationwide have come into play serving as conduits for ICT growth in the locality as it creates a ripple effect in the local economy with its increasing demand for technology, infrastructure and manpower. PhilCall is open for regular membership to all majority Filipino-owned call centers running an operating seat capacity of 200 seats or less with a sincere interest in upholding industry growth and development. The Association also accepts associate members for companies whose business activities support those of the regular members e.g., Voip and software providers, training and recruitment centers, etc.

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PhilCall is headed by the CEO of Magellan Solutions Fred Chua. After Call, interviewed him to know more about PhilCall.

There are 8 major value propositions for joining PhilCall: 1. Marketing and business development assistance 2. Benchmarking and Best Practices with similarly established call centers 3. Human Resource Development and training 4. Call center investor and shareholder networking with like-minded entrepreneurs and business owners in the same vertical. 5. Advocacy and representation for Government agencies 6. Access to financing and fund support 7. Sourcing and special discounts from associated suppliers and providers of call center services 8. Recognition and certification of call center capabilities.

What is PhilCall?
Philcall is an association of locally owned Small to Medium Sized call centers in the Philippines which brings into the national and international path the added value of working with SME call centers.

What is the difference of PhilCall with CCAP?

PhilCall aims to help startup and struggling SME locally owned call centers succeed in this very complex and dynamic industry. Unlike CCAP, as PhilCall accepts call centers with less than 50 seats. It is unlike CCAP, since the major concern of SME call centers is getting clients, PhilCall plans to proactively market the association through marketing activities abroad in the hopes of attracting potential clients to outsource to its call center members.

Who are the members of PhilCall?

The members of PhilCall are mostly startup companies and SME centers in metro manila and provincial areas. We have a total of 20+ participating centers.

What is the vision of PhilCall for the Call Center industry in the Philippines?
The Vision of PhilCall is to uplift the businesses of Filipino-owned SME call centers through a unified business development marketing effort, best practices of similar companies, and awareness of a higher standard of professional ethics which would essentially increase job creation in primary cities and outlying areas around the country with successful call centers being established.

Can you discuss the brief history of PhilCall?

PhilCall was established back in 2007 by a group of call centers that were deceived by bad brokers and consultants that caused many similar companies to fold up. The companies decided that they wanted to share their experiences, so that, no other centers would fall under the same trap that they did. Unfortunately, after one and a half years, the association became inactive due to the advent of the US Economic crisis in 2008, which crippled the thriving outbound telemarketing and lead generation programs that were the lifeblood of most SME Filipino owned call centers. With the help of a dedicated group of individuals, we re-established the association this year with the same values and principles that thrive to help its SME call center members.

What is your vision for the Small and Medium Call Center Companies?
My own vision for the SME call center companies is to help grow locally owned them in the hopes that they become successful enough to be multinational organizations similar to the likes of Infosys of India.

How to Contact PhilCall

Currently, the association holds its meetings at the Metro Club in Rockwell Makati every last Thursday of the month from 2pm to 5pm. The temporary office address is located in grounds as Magellan Solutions Outsourcing, Inc. @ PB Mezzanine Floor, Summit One Tower, 530 Shaw Blvd. Mandaluyong City. For more information, you may contact the PhilCall Secretariat,Richelle.sahagun@philcall.ph. PhilCall has a website at www.philcall.ph.

What is your vision and direction for your own company?

My own vision for my company Magellan Solutions is to grow it to a 2000 seat center in 4 years, and, establish a family culture environment thats a true community.

What are the expectation and the benefits in joining PhilCall?

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From: http://thesauce.net.au Republished with the permission of Martin Conboy, Publisher, The Sauce

Exploited Filipino Workers Paid Starvation Wages by BPO Provider

an attending nurse or sick bay to cater for staff which once again is mandated by Filipino labour laws. As the company has no sick bay for those who would need to rest and are not feeling well, workers are forced to sleep on a bench outside the premises or at a local canteen located outside the office. Given the company has over 1,000 employees, that can be a busy bench. The company works through the night servicing its US clients yet provides no break out areas. Instead, agents are forced to go outside the building and look for a canteen. Given that over half the employees are female, from an OH&S point of view that is putting their night crew at serious risk. Neither are there any fire or emergency exits provided. If there was a fire it could be a catastrophe somewhat similar to the recent disaster in Bangladesh. Yet if they complain they can expect some rough treatment from the company and it would appear that the local police are in on the game. The company, at its own discretion, can accuse and have these workers arrested accusing them of stealing clients and client information and working for them in their own time. The police need no evidence to search a persons home and seize what ever they like, including computer files and equipment. Not only is this highly irregular and moreover illegal, it is tramping on their civil rights and denying them natural justice.

he Sauce has received shocking reports on the treatment and conditions of contact centre workers in Davao city, the Philippines. Working for a BPO provider owned and operated by an American citizen, the workers are being paid less than half of the minimum living wage needed in the Philippines. And those who complain are likely to receive a visit from the local police and authorities.
Earlier this month, we received a note from an employee (we have withheld the name of this employee and others we have interviewed for their protection) who works as a virtual assistant (VA) and gets paid $US 1 per hour for an 8 hour day. The company they work for charges its clients between US6.30 and $8.70 an hour depending upon the number of hours worked. On these numbers the wages component is between 11% to 16% of the revenue generated. Given that this is a business that you buy by the hour the gross profit component is impressive.

The only problem is that this profit is achieved by exploiting knowledge workers who are powerless to stand up to the exploitation. Clearly these slave wages are not enough to survive on and they fall well short of the minimum rate of $US 350 per month mandated by local authorities. Most of these workers are forced by necessity to take on additional work via on line platforms like freelancer.com, Guro.com, Odesk and eLancer.com just to make ends meet. One worker we spoke to sleeps on average 3 hours a day as he struggles to put food on the table for his young family. This company also exploits these hapless workers who are desperate for work by paying them US$2.50 a day (Training Allowance) and taking two to three months to train them.

the workers are being paid less than half of the minimum living wage needed in the Philippines. And those who complain are likely to receive a visit from the local police and authorities.

The Sauce will continue investigating this story and hopefully soon will be able to name the BPO provider in question. Everybody understands that one of the drivers to outsource in the first place is the cost differential between western countries and these developing nations, and that outsourcing helps to redistribute wealth around the globe. It has helped in bringing millions of people across the world out of poverty. This bottom feeder organisation tarnishes the reputation of the Philippines entire industry by exploiting its work force. The clients of this company are most likely completely unaware of what is going on in their name. One of the clients is a religious charity and another is a kids safety program which kind of smacks of double standards. None the less ignorance of these practices is no excuse and in the same way that corporate giants like Apple or Nike look at their supply chain so to should companies or individuals who are using these cheap as chips outsourcing service providers.

The Philippines is a place where access to medical assistance is provided by the employer. In fact its a standard part of the employment conditions for BPO service providers, so people rely upon it as part and parcel of their employment rights, however this company makes its employees wait a whole year before they allow them to receive any company funded health benefits. The situation is not all that much better after the first year probation period is over as the company does not provide
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Christian V. Anzures

nterGlobe Technologies (IGT) is a global travel domain expert providing travel technology and BPO services that help maximize business performance for its customers. IGT is committed to delivering innovation and business excellence across the entire spectrum of the travel and hospitality domain. The company offers Integrated Application Development and Maintenance Contact Center, Back Office Services and Solution Frameworks to the travel industry worldwide.
This year, InterGlobe Technologies launched its first Search for the Next Faces of IGT which showcase not only the individual diversity of its employee but also the diversity campaign of the company for being distinct from other BPO Company. Chito one of the organizers of the pagaent said that you can be you; we encourage every one to be who they are and support them as well. The finalists of the Next faces will represent the company in corporate ad campaigns and other promotional activities. Marcel from India, one of the finalists is an expat and pioneer of IGT gave an insight on working at IGT. I started as a bouncer in a disco in India my work their is not to technical, when I first worked in IGT, I saw the technicalities, at first I thought that I could not do it and Id rather go back to India, but here in IGT they give you enough room to cope with everything and to grow. Here in IGT we treat every one as family. There are misconceptions when it deals with the BPO industry, like its a dead end job and not really a career, but this misconception are only created by the people who are working or have worked in the BPO industry. These people are the one who are not satisfied or impatient they seek for another job. But here in IGT we gave the people space, we make them stable by taking care of them that is the difference of IGT with the other BPO company, Marcel added. IGT is a part of InterGlobe Enterprises Limited a leader in aviation and travel related services. With its footprint, spanning across the globe from 10 state-of-the-art delivery centers IGT employs over 5000 travel experts worldwide.

The IGT Contestants

Photo by: Xian Kahlil Anzures

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Exper ie nc e t h e Ar t a nd Sci ence of B e auty a t Ae scultura

Ruby Diaz

et ready to enter a fab beauty clinic, where luxury, pampering and style abound. The ultimate destination for your body and skin celebrated six beautiful years last July 6, 2013. Aescultura, the art and science of beauty is indeed in its prime.
The elite beauty spot for dishy perfection boasts an ambience of luxe, chic sophistication that pervades as one steps into the entryway, its architecture is done in a palette of gold on green accented with harmonious hues reminiscent of greek mythology, interspersed with modern touches of chrome. It is more than posh. This creative, fabulous beauty clinic is the scene. Our homey feel along with personalized service are what our patients like about us. We talked and walked through nearly every detail of the client experience at Aescultura, to be positive that it would be what we wanted: perfect and tasteful, says Dra. Loves Labaniego-Liwag, the clinics Operations Manager. With the proliferation of beauty clinics all over the country, Ms. Dang Tan, owner of Aescultura quipped We are simply different she added, We are not here to compete or aim to be most renowned, we are here for our clients satisfaction, and our own satisfaction in knowing that we have helped bring out the beauty in them. But the beauty of Aescultura does not stop there, clients when asked, would readily answer superb when asked about satisfaction, they clearly put a premium on superior service, the aestheticians have the lightest hands that instantaneously puts a client at ease on treatments t h a t would otherwise give clients needs, a gold star, the would be at you inside, talk know how to For their w e r e wine or a p r e p them jitters. The staff keeps tabs on the that would make you want to give them instant you park your car, an attendant your door with an umbrella to escort about exceptional service! They sure go the extra mile. anniversary offering, the guests greeted with either a glass of refreshing iced tea drink to them for a day of free treatments and sampling of premium items. Guests were also given exclusive Aescultura s o a p s e s p e c i a l l y m a d e t o a n s w e r every Skin problem. Nurses and attendants are apt to answer every query a guest may have on services offered by the clinic, to top it all, freebies and humongous discounts were granted to their loyal and growing clientele. The launch of a new treatment called Zen obagi skin health facial which is offered only at Aescultura coincided with the anniversary; its a comprehensive treatment for the face that is suitable for any skin type. We continuously offer products and look for revolutionary treatments that would further service for our patients and cater to their every need explained Dra. Loves Labaniego-Liwag For a relatively young beauty clinic, the future of Aescultura looks bright indeed, We are planning of putting up more clinics in strategic areas in our country, and we want to further our reach, for them to experience how we treat every job as a masterpiece. In the meantime, the whole team works to be at par with the best in the world, because our clients deserve only the best says Ms. Dang Tan. You could reach AESCULTURA ART AND SCIENCE BEAUTY at +63(2) 3765969 G/F Future Point Building, 112 Panay Avenue, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines.

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Travel & Ecology

The Fish Counts

Gregg Yan

ooks like a scene from the Matrix, I muse while fighting the notorious Tubbataha Reef current, which is trying its best to peel our fish counting team off a coral-covered wall into open water where hungry hammerheads lie waiting. Around us, forming a dense cloud of coloured confetti above jagged heads of stag horn coral is a massive, pulsating shoal of Anthias and damselfish. Easily tenthousand strong, the coloured mass seemingly swims and feeds as one just like the squid-like sentinel swarms in the Matrix. The fish are obviously having no trouble with the current. Having spent the last two hours counting fish, Tubbataha Marine Park Rangers Seconds Conales, Manny Bundal, Jeffrey David and I are now struggling 30 feet below the sunlit waters of Tubbataha South Atoll, trying to retrieve 100-meter transect lines used as guides to count not just fish, but invertebrates, substrate types and reef damage as well. Though conducted annually, this years research expedition is way out of the ordinary for not one, but two large ships ran aground the famed reefs coral-coated atolls. Led by renowned coral scientist Dr. Al Licuanan, divers from

the Tubbataha Management Office, Department of Science and Technology, World Wide Fund for Nature, University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute and De La Salle University have already witnessed first-hand the effects of ship groundings on one of Earths richest marine biodiversity bastions. All week Ive been haunted by images of crushed coral, pulverized to grit. Ive been trying to envision how the scars can heal, but Im totally stumped. Transformed into graveyards of broken coral and bare rock, the grounding sites hosted only surgeonfish drab-hued reef residents, easily eclipsed by the reefs shinier stars. We wait and fight on as the current gets stronger.

THE CRADLE OF LIFE

Bursting through the vastness of the Sulu Sea, 160 kilometres southeast of Puerto Princesa in Palawan are the twin atolls of Tubbataha, spectacular worlds brimming with wealth both beneath and beyond the blue. Formed from the eruption of undersea volcanoes over 15 million years ago, Tubbataha for the Philippines is what the Serengeti is for Africa an unmatched cradle of life. It is the undisputed jewel of the Coral Triangle.

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A multi-awarded UNESCO World Heritage site which celebrates its 25th anniversary this 2013, the 97,030-hectare Natural Marine Park and no-take zone encompasses both atolls plus nearby Jessie Beazley reef. Tubbataha earned its moniker from visiting Samal tribesmen who called it long reef after the exposed coral formations revealed daily by the tide, explains WWF Tubbataha Project Manager Marivel Dygico. It is accessible via a 12-hour live-aboard cruise from Puerto Princesa City, though strong waves confine recreational diving to the months of April, May and June. It is a fish-lovers wet dream, as over 600 types of fish ranging from the fingernail-sized pygmy seahorse to the occasional truck-sized whale shark patrol coral-coated slopes and dramatic drop-offs. Each dive reveals a treasure trove of finned jewels, distinguished by the way they swim. Adorned in gold and amber, butterfly fish strut like beauty queens. Trailing sweetlips follow us with schoolboy curiosity. Ghostly silver batfish swim with creepiness, while grey reef sharks exude pure awesomeness. The area also hosts 360 species of coral, 14 species of shark, 12 species of whale and dolphin, endangered green sea and hawksbill turtles plus over a hundred seabird species, adds Dygico. All this biodiversity translates to unrivalled productivity. Whereas a typical square kilometre of healthy coral reef annually yields up to 40 metric tonnes of seafood yearly, Tubbataha generates over 200. Though fishing within the park is not allowed, the larval dispersal effects continually seed the far reaches of the Sulu Sea with fish and invertebrate spawn. Above the blue yonder peek two tiny land masses spaced eight kilometres apart. North Atoll spans 12,435sq m and hosts over 200 trees, many shorn and pitted by ravenous red-footed boobies. The scrubby landscape rises no higher than two meters above the sea. South Atoll is much smaller, at 3140sq m. A meter-high concrete wall, cracked and pitted by the elements, forms a protective ring against erosion, while a solar-powered lighthouse erected in 1980 by the Philippine Coast Guard stands sentinel over all. Sadly, both atolls bore back-to-back bruises from ship groundings this year.

the 1300-tonne Avenger-class minesweeper from the reef. When the silt settled, Tubbataha South Atoll was 2345sq m of reef poorer. Just eight days after the American warship was extracted, another vessel followed suit. On 8 April 2013, Tubbataha Park Rangers discovered the F/V Min Long Yu, a 48-meter long Chinese poaching vessel, floundering a nautical mile east of the Ranger Station, part of Tubbataha North Atoll. Though smaller than the wood-and-fibreglass hulled USS Guardian, the Chinese vessel was steel-hulled. This plus the fact that the craft kept bucking up, down and sideways, proved deadly to the reef. By the time the craft was towed out 11 days later, 3902sq m of reef had been obliterated, with some massive 500-year old Porites corals sheared cleanly in half. Our team spent days investigating both sites. Though the reef damage was shocking, worse was to come. Adding insult to injury, 2870 endangered pangolin carcasses were found aboard the Chinese vessels holds. Though internationally protected, poachers still hunt the harmless mammals for their meat and scales to fuel the traditional East Asian medicine trade. Advocates the world over are up in arms to claim compensation for the groundings.

LITTLE DOCTORS

Back in South Atoll, drab squads of surgeonfish whiz by as Seconds secures the last transect. Suddenly, the striped fish start to, well shimmer. Dumbfounded, I soon remember what Tubbataha Park Superintendent Angelique Songco told us before our dive. When the tide shifts, hot water from the lagoon mixes with cold water from the depths. The effect makes the water glimmer. Painted in a whole new light by this eerie phenomenon, I realize that these surgeonfish are far more than drab reef denizens. Perpetually pecking and grazing, forever ignored because of their dull colours, these unassuming fish are the secret to Tubbatahas recovery. After visiting the grounding site of the USS Guardian the day before, Dr. Licuanan explained his theory of reef regeneration. The key to it all might be surgeonfish. Their constant grazing keeps algae from taking over the freshly-exposed rock. It is because of them that coral larvae will be allowed to resettle on the grounding scars. Named for the scalpel-like extensions by their tails, these valuable reef denizens are like real-life surgeons experts at bringing things to life. The fish count done, we begin our ascent, leaving Tubbataha in the hopeful hands of these little doctors. And though lacklustre in colour, they to me shone brighter than any of the reefs other jewels.

A TALE OF TWO SHIPS

On 17 January 2013, the USS Guardian, a 68-meter long US Navy warship, entered Tubbataha without proper clearance to accidentally plough into the north-western portion of South Atoll. Though its 79-man detail was swiftly evacuated, it took 73 excruciating days and $45 million to slice and remove

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Sheridan Beach Resort & Spa, Post Card Perfect

By Marjiel P. Gono

heridan Beach Resort and Spa is an intimate 4-hectare green resort nestled in the heart of Sabang Beach, Puerto Princesa. Approximately, one hour and a half ride from the airport and 20 minutes away to the spectacular Subterranean Underground River, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. The resort is located between the statuesque mountains and picturesque beaches characterized by powdery sands, crystal clear waters and majestic view of mountains. Postcard perfect photo-ops can be situated at different points within the whole area, ideal also for scenic travel by a private helicopter. The untamed nature presents the impression of abundance a treasure trove of infinite possibilities. The modern-classic concept and interiors appointed to embrace wide range of cultures and diversities, to balance luxury and simplicity without a feeling of inhibition. Crafted 95-rooms are equipped with Triple-A amenities, sensible equipments, commanding breeze of highlands, and lush gardens. The focal point of the resort is the 340-foot long azure infinity pool, reputed as one of the largest in Palawan, inset with a stunning Sip n Dip Pool Bar perfect with our signature cocktails. Dining is lavish with a breathe of the beach at South Sea Restaurant that will tickle ones palate with distinctive flavors of Asian-Western cuisine, selected herbs and spices freshly picked from our 50-hectares Sheridan Organic Farm, grilled premium sea foods, wood-fire oven pizza, sumptuous buffet and nightly entertainment of acoustic guitar. Dine Al Fresco and enjoy the beautiful ambience of the sea. Blue Bar invites a toss of fine wines and spirits. For instant caf vibe, the Lobby Lounge sets a variety of coolers, cakes, pastries, and array of good reads for mental stimulation. It is also merged with a souvenir shop that features classy South Sea Pearls and gift items. Fitness and thrill-seekers can pick range of activities; be it

in the Gym, Sports Bar or ATV in Sheridan Jungle Track. For water sailing, MV Sheridan Banca is tailored-fit for zesty adventures await at the beach or sunset island tours. Active children can stretch educational activities for learning at Kids Club with anointed Medical clinic to ensure safety. These prestigious inclusions are well intentioned to be Children and Family Friendly Resort.

In accordance to Going Green Advocacy, Sheridan Nature Spa incorporates the principle of Reuse, Reduce and Recycle, extended to resort operations. Based on the holistic concept, we use only the best natural oils and organic remedies for treatments. The aroma of fresh flowers and variety of massages by well trained therapists do wonders to well being, inspired by rich Asian tradition and respect for peace and privacy.
For conventions and special events, function areas can hold a total of 450 persons by capacity complete with conference and banquet facilities. Event Executives are seasoned to plan, conceptualize and execute. The Food and Beverage Team are dedicated to serve in various ways to accommodate by partitioning the set up at the beach or pool view. Romantic proposals, weddings, anniversaries and joyous celebrations of life are legendary and worth to cherish with a stunning backdrop of the beach and manicured landscape. The Sheridan Beach Resort and Spa is more than just a beach resort. It is a visionary property all geared for romantic venture, tranquil sanctuary, healthy lifestyle and discovery of natural beauty. Our commitment to protect and preserve natural environment delivers exceptional services and stronger team content to all our guests and visitors. Our company spirit inspires warmth, sincerity and passion.

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To Gota, Puraran, and Back

Pio Granada

If you int end to su rf in Pura socks, an ran make d some a sure to bri ntiseptic, require yo ng aqua as going u to step to the ree on rough f brake m stones w ay ith sharp edges.

Hunongan Cove

ou have never truly experienced the country side until youve seen it from the top of a Pinoy jeepney. Riding with hog feed and boxes of Emperador light brandy, I was sunbathing on the rooftop of a passenger jeepney, shuttling me from Virac, Catanduanes to the town of Barras. I was in search of places that ringed of silence, stillness and peace; I was nding my sanctuary my church. In my junket to Caramoan, Camarines Sur, and Cataduanes, I have found many of these places, sometimes in between destinations. I want to share the unconventional route my friends and I took in nding these places: Manila Naga Caramoan Catanduanes Tabaco and back.

Gota Beach, Caramoan

I have always wanted to go to Gota Village Resort for the pristine islands dotting its perimeter with powder white sand comparable to that of Boracays. It is famous for being the place where different batches of Survivor stayed, and the islands where they shot different incarnations of the show.

port, a van was waiting for us, which took us straight to Gota Village Resort.

Where to stay and eat/Activities

If you want the Survivor Experience then Gota Village Beach (+63 920-9650390 or +63 920-9672942 look for Resty Vidad, website: www.caramoanislands.com ) resort is the only option. For a 3 days two nights package, the cost was Php 7,000 per head when went there. The package included the following activities: Kayaking, island hopping, rock climbing, and a nature hike. The room included was a quaint one bedroom wood cabin, it had a queen sized bed and two single beds. The package only includes breakfast. The land and sea transfers (round trip) mentioned earlier are also included.

How to get there

We got to Gota Village Resort by way of Naga. We took a bus from the Cubao terminal (behind Shopwise), specically the RSL bus, which had lazy boy seats and its own comfort room. A ticket to Naga costs Php 1,200. When we got to Naga, a shuttle from the Gota Village resort took us to a port which took us straight to Caramoan. At the

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Gota Beach

Wooden Cabins in Go

ta Village Resort

Puraran Beach, Catanduanes

I have never found tranquility like on Puraran beach, where everything was so still and silent, you can hear God speak. Fabulous rock formations are blissfully scattered on a shore laden with corals and stones. Puraran Beach is best known for being the home of the Majestic Waves, 7-footer barrel waves which pro-surfers crave to ride.

is recommended. There is a wet market in the town of Baras, buying food there before taking off for Puraran is a good idea, as lobsters are cheap in Catanduanes. Obviously, the best thing to do here is surf. From March to May the waves here are small, so summer is the best time to go for beginners, but if you want to ride the Majestic, then going to Puraran between July to October is your best bet. In Puraran, I have found the solitude I was looking for. When I was at Gota beach, the peace I enjoyed on the rst day was immediately destroyed by a trove of tourist doctors accompanied by their families, who seemed to invade the resort all at once, like a Mongol horde. The other thing I enjoyed doing Puraran was meditating in the middle of the beach with no one in sight to disturb me. Going back, we rented a van from the resort, which took us to back Codon Port. From there we rode a roro going to Tabaco, Albay and nally we rode a bus at the Tabaco bus terminal. My take away from the trip was that I saw Gods majesty seeing magnicent rock formations (especially during island hopping in Caramoan and on the boat ride to Catanduanes), the powder white beaches and experiencing being on the middle of the Pacic on a small boat whilst being banged by waves. In the middle of the ocean, I have never felt the magnitude and vastness of Gods creation. In its greatness, one may feel small, but I didnt, rather I felt one with its endlessness. Undeniably, nature brings me closer to God than any church or religion can, and in this adventure, this was the peace my soul craved for and found.

How to get there

We got to Puraran by contracting a pump boat to take us directly to Catanduanes, while we were at Gota. The trip cost us Php 2,000 and about an hour. We arrived at the port town of Bislig, San Andres. From there, we took a tricycle to the provincial capital of Virac. There we went to the port of Codon, from there took a jeep going to the town of Baras. I highly recommend riding on top of the jeep, not only did I get more natural air-conditioning, I got to take in the sights and avoided the crammed space in the regular passenger area. From Baras, you need to take a tricycle to nally take you to Puraran Beach.

Where to stay and eat/Activities

Staying in Puraran is a stark contrast to Gota Village Resort, here you get to rough it out in Nipa huts. Accommodations range from Php 500 to Php 800 a night. The options here are Puraran Surf Resort (+63 915 764-9133, +63 949 134-3443, website: www.puraransurf. com) and Majestic Puraran (+63 919 558-1460, +63 927 628 2251, website: http://www.majesticpuraran.com/). In Puraran, you cant expect the creature comforts in Gota Village resort, save for a sari-sari store which offers cooked meals. Bringing your own food and booze

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HAVEN IN THE CITY

Photo by: Xian Kahlil Anzures

YOUR NEAREST

ucked in a hilly city in the Sierra Madre mountain ranges, this spa and resort is the perfect getaway for people who want to de-stress from the hustle and bustle of urban living without going too far from the countrys capital.
Callospa and Resort in Antipolo City, a 45-minute drive from Metro Manila, is an escape and a haven in one. Its landscape boasts of several species of plants that can only be found in exotic tropical locales. The lush surroundings make the summer a little less scorching and rainy days heat breakingly romantic. Imagine raindrops falling on plants and on its man-made ponds, as you whisper sweet nothings to your significant others ear. The 1,900-square meter property of Evangeline Garcia became famous for its spa services, with prices ranging from Php 400.00 to Php 1,000.00. You can relax for an hour or so from its array of massages, such as stone, lymphatic drainage, mandara twins, herbal compress, Ayurveda, signature massage and massage ventosa. Other services include body and facial treatments for as low as Php 250.00. If a body scrub or a basic facial isnt enough to pamper yourself, then why not try foot spa, manicure/ pedicure, Xiamen or Malaysian foot reflex, and many, many more. A swimming pool is also ready to complement your stay. More than being a spa, Callospa is also slowly becoming a favoured destination for wedding. From photo-shoots to the actual ceremony and reception, this venue has everything to make this important life event truly memorable.

Callospas 24-hour Dream Wedding Destination Package costs only Php 178,000.00. This includes an exclusive resort use from 9:00 am to 7:00 am the next day, Brides family stays overnight at Tatami Room, Grooms family at the Family Suite. The Couples Honeymooners Suite, on the day photo-ops at the spa, lights and sounds energy charges is free. The package includes a buffet for 150 pax. Callospa is not just a wedding destination. Debuts and other celebrations can also be held here. Company outings or barkada bondings are definitely welcome here. Tournaments, team building sessions, reunions, meetings, childrens parties and other events can also be accommodated. As a private resort, only one event at a time only is accommodated. Aside from the pool, the spa and the rooms, you can make your stay more enjoyable by singing with your buddies using Callospas videoke. Complete your experience by trying its exfoliating steam room, relaxing hot and cold Jacuzzi and detoxing sauna. Most popular here? Couples Affordable Overnight Getaway at Php 4,000.00 during weekdays and Php 4,500.00 for weekends. This includes use of the Premium Suite, complimentary breakfast for two, swimming, and use of sauna, Jacuzzi and 1 hour full body massage. For packages, promos, rates and other information about Callospa, you can contact them through their numbers at (02) 6507889; (02) 5701376; 4014621; 09228007889 or 09178243715. You can also email them at callospa@yahoo.com or visit their website www. callospaweddings.com.

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Reboot with

Qigong & Meditation

Health

hat happens to a regular computer when there are too many programs, or windows, open and running at the same time? Eventually, the system hangs. The cursor doesnt respond, warning notifications appear rendering the computer useless. During this time people use a set of simple of keyboard sequences that usually refresh the system: Control-Alt-Delete. Other keyboard action is pressing the restart, reboot or just pulling the plug all together to give it a rest.
future and entertaining fears and anxieties. There are many meditation styles that offer the same or similar benefits. One most significant benefit is the balance of mind and body amidst trying times. Qigong is considered moving meditation. Qigong segues perfectly into stillness meditation. When the mind rests, the body follows. In these fast paced times, our minds are running with too many programs that get us closer to hanging like an overworked PC. The speed of technology and industry is constantly on the go. We as human beings can only keep up for so long. The reboot protocols of Qigong and meditation help the hard working professional and/or city dweller to manage the demands of modern life. Unlike the PC, there is no risk to the system if humans make it a habit to reboot ourselves. If you would like to experience Qigong and Meditation to reboot yourself, with friends, or your company contact: sattvah888@ yahoo.com, davidm@onesparknow.com

People are just like a regular PC. We go through the day with many programs and windows running in our minds. These running programs come in the form of work deadlines, clients, customers, bosses, subordinates, personal and professional relationships, traffic and other things that threaten to make our mind and bodies hang. Although we dont have keyboards, we can reboot our systems with Qigong and Meditation practices.

What is Qigong?
Qigong (pronounced Chee-gong) is like the Chinese exercise Tai Chi. Qigong uses slow, mindful movements to enhance the flow of Qi (Chi) in the body. Qi is also known as Life-Force energy, and Prana in Yoga tradition. Through the practice of Qigong, life force energy circulates through the body. The flow of Qi energy is essential for health in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Qi is also vital in the generating power in the Martial Arts. The flow of Qi is just as important in rebooting the tired mind and body.

What is Meditation?
Meditation is appreciating the present moment and being where the body is. Many times the modern persons mind is in the past,

How to
1. Choose a place with little distractions. If youre in the office, your work desk is ne as long as the sounds are easy to be with. Sit on a comfortable chair with feet at on the oor, hands on you lap, posture straight but relaxed, close your eyes. Take a deep breath for 4 seconds. Do this by expanding your diaphragm and with little movement on your chest. Visualize the air going to your mid section. Hold for two seconds. Exhale slowly for 4 to 5 seconds. Imagine youre releasing the stress Qi from your body and mind. Breathe this way ve more times. Focus the mind on the breath and the feeling of the expansion and contraction of the diaphragm. After the last breath, remember where you are and open your eyes.

Benets
Alleviates stress Qigong improves physical coordination and strength Manages blood pressure Improves sleep Enhances immune systems Releases toxic emotions Releases toxic emotions and energy absorbed from toxic people. Improves relating with others Improves creativity Better focus and concentration Improves condence and self worth Relaxes nervous system Good compliment to Yoga and weight loss program. Seeking clarity in times of confusion.

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Pantry

Great Taste Brown

Busy days made sweeter with

usy professionals need a cup of rich, aromatic and fullflavored coffee to boost their energy in the morning and breeze through the days challenges. Great Taste offers Pinoys a chance to enjoy their daily pick-me-up in a sweeter blend with its 3-in-1 Brown coffee.
A delightful blend of coffee, non-dairy creamer and brown sugar, Great Taste Brown has a distinct caramelized flavor. Moreover, coffee lovers can treat themselves to a rich delicious cup for only PhP6 (suggested retail price). On-the-go individuals can stay on top of their daily tasks with Great Taste Brown to help them stay alert throughout the day. Busy professionals like call center agents can also count on the delectable taste of Great Taste Brown to keep them energized during long hours of work. And thanks to its convenient 3-in-1 format, they can always get that much-needed perk any time they want. Keeping up with the requirements and demands of my job can be really stressful says Anne Lorraine, a call center training specialist. I like Great Taste Brown because it gives me the caffeine fix I need without being too sweet. Its become a regular habit of mine to drink it after a days work. Meanwhile, Czarina San Agustin, a systems programmer, says Great Taste Brown is my reward for

when I get to finish all the items on my to-do list. I look forward to making myself a cup every afternoon, or before I start on a new account. Its like getting a fresh boost of energy. Czarina adds, Its a lot cheaper than going to a coffee shop. Ive saved a lot of money and time ever since including it in my grocery list. Now, even my friends are hooked on it! Whether preparing for the busy day ahead or rewarding yourself for a job well done, Great Taste Brown can help you get the extra push you need to keep up with the challenges of your day. Enjoy a cup of smooth, rich coffee naturally sweetened with brown sugar, and in a more convenient, more affordable way through Great Taste Brown. The new Great Taste Brown, is available in all leading supermarkets, groceries, convenience stores and sari-sari stores nationwide.

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Launched Luzviminda; a Collaboration of Food and Ingredients Christian V. Anzures

1 Hotel is the first hotel at the Bonifacio Global City in Metro Manila, inaugurated Luzviminda a feast of ingredients, food and collaboration of chefs in the whole region of the country. According to Mr. Tony Co Director for Operations of the F1 Hotel, the idea is to promote the food and ingredients that originate or could only be found in every region of the country. The banquet would be an everyday sequence that would run until the 30th of June in celebration of the Fathers Day.
The F1 Hotel, F Caf lead by Chef Sao Del Rosario, the Head Chef of the hotel invited chefs from different part of the country to highlight the Masters way of cooking and presenting their art. Some of the celebrity chefs that are invited include; Chef Boy Logro for his Visayan mastery of cooking, Chef Martin Jickain of Station Juan Caf for Luzon and Chef Karl John Noel and Chef Paul Sydney Uy for Mindanao. The event does not only highlight the food but it also illustrates the talent of the Filipino by providing more hype and quality service. The luncheon buffet offers different variety of food or dishes that could be found only in a particular area of the region, the chef introduces fusion with the traditional dish that we know. The launching show case also the title holder of the recent pageant of the Ms. Earth which includes Ms. Caneille Santos Fire, Ms. Kim Suiza water and Ms. Angele Delos Reyes Earth and also the participant of the said event. F1 Hotel Manila was the first hotel to open at the Bonifacio Global City that offers the high standards of services, starting from the facilities and amenities onto the food that they serve. Located within walking distance to shopping centers, corporate offices, recreational facilities and boutique shops. It is also a short drive from domestic and international airports and even from other cities within the Metropolis. The Hotel offers 243 stylish rooms with 3 room categories; Deluxe

F Cafe Head Chef , Chef Sao Del Rosario

Rooms, City Suite and Fort Suite to provide its guest with a luxurious experience. F`1 Hotel has 243 stylish guest rooms with 3 room categories - Deluxe Rooms, City Suite and Fort Suite, to give its guests a luxurious experience. All rooms are well appointed and include a choice of king or double bed. Each room is equipped with an individually controlled air conditioning system, a minimum of 2 line NDD/IDD access telephones, work desk with internet ports, electronic safe, coffee & tea making facility, LCD TV, iPod dock with radio and alarm, and walk-in shower.

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS TONY CO (Center) WITH RANDY SANTIAGO

HOST SAM OH INTERVIEWS THE CHEFS

Photos by: Xian Kahlil Anzures

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Travel Space

Enjoy a family picnic by the lake

Your dream home in Pampanga is now within reach!

Liana house model. Only P8,200/month

apampangans never settle for anything but the best, even when it comes to choosing a home. That is why Property Company of Friends, Inc. (PRO-FRIENDS) offers stylish and quality homes in one of Pampangas most prestigious addresses at a price that a young urban professional like you can afford.
The Palms, a sprawling development inside The Lakeshore along North Luzon Expressway, is a safe and secure community that features townhouses and single attached homes starting at only P8, 200/month an amount usually spent on expensive dinners, branded clothes, and even coffee dates. The Palms is only a few minutes drive from SM Pampanga and Robinsons Starmills. It is situated near hospitals, schools, and churches, such as Manabat Hospital, St. Scholasticas Academy, and Sanctuario de San Fernando, among others. For added convenience, an exclusive shuttle service will be provided to run trips all throughout the day with drop-off points at The Lakeshore to and from SM Pampanga Terminal. You can choose from five types of house models, namely Liana, Mia (townhouses), Sofia, Brooke, and Leighton (single attached homes). Liana has a floor area of 50 sq.m. and a lot area of 50 sq.m. Mia, on the other hand, has a floor area of 60 sq.m. and a lot area of 50 sq.m. Sofia has a floor area of 52 sq.m. and a lot area of 80 sq.m. Brooke, meanwhile, has a floor area of 72 sq.m. and a lot area of 100 sq.m. Lastly, Leighton has a floor area of 84 sq.m. and a lot area of 120 sq.m. All of these houses are area-optimized to cater to the needs of families of different sizes. They are also built with maximum cross ventilation using the latest in Reinforced Concrete Technology. This housing technology ensures that

homes can withstand typhoons, earthquakes, and other natural calamities better than the conventional hollow blocks (CHBs). Being part of The Lakeshore, the residents of The Palms will have an access to its first-rate amenities. Imagine yourself having a picnic with family and friends at The Docks, celebrating birthdays at The Tent, running around lakesides jogging paths, dipping into The Clubhouses infinity pool after working out in the gym, or treating someone to a romantic dinner at The Grill. Savor this lifestyle and more at a price that wont hurt your pockets. Truly, one of the best accomplishments in life is providing your family a better living environment. For many urban professionals like you, it could mean owning a home with the money that you have worked for. With all of the deadlines, stress, and hectic working hours you have been experiencing for years, the most rewarding feeling perhaps is seeing the smiles on your loved ones face when your dream home come to life. Fortunately, that dream is made possible by Property Company of Friends (PRO-FRIENDS). Being in the real estate business for more than a decade, PRO-FRIENDS aims to develop high quality housing at a price you can afford. It was founded in 1999 by a group of friends and is now one of the fastest growing real estate developers in the country. Beyond doubt, PRO-FRIENDS made everything easier for you and your family. As a matter of fact, the company offers one of the lowest down payments in the market today at only 12.5%! So with a little discipline and proper budgeting, owning your dream home in Pampanga is definitely within your reach. PRO-FRIENDS is here to help you realize your dream. To know more about The Palms Lakeshore or to schedule site visit, contact PRO-FRIENDS at (045) 455-0922 or visit www.profriends.com today!

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DANCE
A
popular all-male dance group forms part of the pool of expert instructors at the newest dance studio in the busy district of Quezon City.
Celebrity group Manoeuvres, through member Gringo Baring, now teaches Hip-Hop classes at the newly-opened I-Dance Studio located at The Penthouse Level of Future Point Plaza 3 Building along Panay Ave. Classes are scheduled every Saturdays 11:00am-12:00pm for the intermediate level while the advanced class is at 3:00-4:00pm.

CELEBRETY at I-DANCE STUDIO

Ruby Diaz

like a

According to business owner Ms. Dang Tan, the idea of putting up a dance studio was suggested by her friend Mr. Jon Supan, pioneer and manager of Maneouvres group, the good-looking male dancers that served as the official back-up dancers of Mr. Gary Valenciano during the 80s to mid 2000. From the beginning, Jon knows about my passion for dancing. He made me realize that through this business, I can regularly dance and keep myself fit, while at the same time, help dancers, beginners and pros alike, find their second home in I-Dance Studio, said Ms. Tan at the grand launch of the studio in a Mardi Gras party She adds that it is important for a dance studio to be built with the well-being of consumers primarily in mind. We put premium on quality, hospitality, and comfort among others, things that will make our students look forward to wearing their dancing shoes again with us. I-Dance also extends one-on-one coaching sessions to those who have missed their classes, or simply to those who prefer close supervision with the instructor. The studio can gladly accommodate requests of students who want to study other types of classes other than ballroom dancing, hip hop, and the fast-rising class I-Yoga. Soon, salsa, striptease and belly dancing will be included. Like dancing, managing a dance studio requires openness, patience, and dynamism. We are excited to hear more from our guests, and together we can make I-Dance Studio better in whatever way we can, explained Tan. Thanks to its owners eye for details and aesthetics, the studio is not only an eye candy but also a haven of comfort. I-Dance Studio uses a state-of-the art technology for its flooring system so that the dancers will be protected from the impact of the floor while they dance. During the launch, Quezon City officials Rep. Kit Belmonte, Councilor Marivic Co-Pilar and Fiscal Luchi Marcos joined Ms. Dang and husband Dr. Edwin Tan, a seasoned real estate developer, in the opening rites. For inquiries and studio bookings, please call 961-6410 or visit www.idancestudio.ph or like their page @www.facebook. com/idancestudiophilippines
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Tech + Mobility

SMAC intensifying pace of business transformation IT-BPM unleashes innovation with social, mobility, analytics, and cloud
(Manila, Philippines)The advent of the information technology (IT) architecture called SMAC, or social, mobility, analytics, and cloud, is raising the stakes for the global business process management (BPM) industry, opening up insights, new revenue streams and greater service impact through innovation. SMAC is unleashing innovation at a rapid pace. It is transcending the digital space and revolutionizing the IT-BPM value chain, says Jose Mari Mercado, president and chief executive of the Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP). Access to credible, rich and compelling data and channels allows companies to compete better as well as manage risk. In many cases, it liberates organizations from incorrect assumptions that define their strategies or goals. Dubbed as a stack, SMAC components must operate as an integrated system of processing information to deliver maximum business innovation and value. Social and mobility solutions are seen as effective drivers of productivity and engagement, while business analytics and cloud-based applications are enabling decision-making at optimal costs. Demands are outpacing traditional capabilities across all industries. The pressure to adapt to rapid changes is very intense, and many are being left behind, Mercado said. By transforming the role of technologies from a basic support function to the core of business model, adopters are disrupting how services are envisioned and brought to market. Examining SMAC in multi-process human resources outsourcing (MPHRO), global advisory and research firm Everest Group reports that buyers and service providers see SMAC as a way to extract new value from MPHRO engagements. Multi-process HRO is defined in a value stack, from top-level HR strategy; employee relations, regulatory and compliance; recruitment, benefits and payroll; and finally support infrastructure such as information systems and contact centers. In consumer health care, SMAC is fostering a higher level of engagement among patients and consumers, with models evolving from physical care in clinics or hospitals to virtual care. As people learn more about their health and risk factors, they are being empowered to work toward desired health behaviors. Global industry leaders will focus on SMAC during the 5th Annual International Outsourcing Summit, taking place October 6 to 8, 2013 in Makati City. In the opening plenary, IOS will delve on how firms across geographies are revolutionizing business through SMAC. The summit will also feature keynote presentations by industry and domain experts; panel discussions with top industry executives and other respected and influential resource persons; gala dinners; business matching sessions; exclusive briefings; unconferencing sessions; and, a supplier exhibit. SMAC is bridging the vast landscape that is IT-BPM. This is central to the theme of our summit, Unlocking Possibilities, Creating New Vistas, Mercado said. We hold fast to the view that our industry has played a crucial role in helping many adapt to the new business model that defines what it means to be truly global. For more information on the summit, visit www. internationaloutsourcingsummit.com. Delegates may also download the app for free from iTunes and Google Play Store. For inquiries, contact +632 757 3500 ext. 309 or email Dana Abasa at dtabasa@ teamasia.com.

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he perception of our Filipino youth is full of astounding possibilities this was recently concluded in C2 Sarap ng Bukas Music VideoMaking Contest that was held in Xin Tian Di, Crowne Plaza Hotel in Ortigas, Pasig City.

C2 Launches Sarap ng Bukas Music Video Contest

Romulo Domagas, and Annabele Jane Masculino. Apart from cash prizes, the winners received special gift packs from C2 Green Tea. This year, C2 used a different approach by using the social media to add a little bit spiced in the category by awarding Jeanmehwah Dagum of Caloocan City the Fans Choice Award having the video entry with the most number of online votes. For this special recognition, she took home P20, 000. As the countrys ready to drink green tea brand, C2 advocates living a well balanced lifestyle to reach ones maximum potential and make their dreams come true. C2 launched the music video competition in December 2012, celebrating creativity, music, and the bright future that await young talents because who knows, the future may just really surprise them! Promoting a cool and clean lifestyle among the youth has always been our goal, said Vice President General Manager for URC Beverage Division, Edwin Totanes. Through the Sarap ng Bukas music video competition, we wish to encourage our young talents to always take care of their body, mind, and spirit today, so they have the refreshing drive to go after what they want in life, he concluded.

C2 in recognition of young creative talent especially for the up and coming directors in the country launches its digital campaign for encouraging everyone to take care of their health. The direction is how C2 touches our lives; it is an open age concept contest. Krizelle Ching of Cainta Mass Communication graduate from University of the Philippines Diliman bagged the top spot from hundred of entries and took home the tittle, Grand Winner, as well as the cash prize of P150, 000 with 10 thousand pesos worth of C2 package. My friends and I are truly thrilled, and honoured to be this year winner. I hope that our video inspires everyone to believed C2s message that there is always hope for a brighter and better tomorrow, said Ching. The concept of the winning entry is inspired by giving and everyday is a gift, a cancer patient who choose to give and gave joy to the people surrounding her while fighting for her medical condition. Its a simple shoot done with an ordinary laptop, Ching added. Gharawi Usman of Manila, first runner-up with his idea of animated effects and won P100, 000, while Chloe Veloso of Cebu was named second runner-up and received P50, 000 and C2 package. The line Ill be the very best of me in in the Sarap ng Bukas song challenged me to bring out my best in making this music video, shared Usman. Some say that the video I made is so random, but its actually an abstract way of showing who I am. Being the second runner-up in this competition gives me a great sense of accomplishment, not just for me but also for my team who worked with me on this video, said Veloso. We all worked so hard from working on the costumes, to the effects and the shoot itself. It really feels great that all our efforts have paid off. Seven other finalists whose videos were scored by a panel of judges in terms of creative execution and depiction of the Sarap ng Bukas theme received P10, 000 each. This included Patrick Jason Bayani, Paul Julius Sy, Lorenz Roi Morales, Geriza dela Cruz, Jose Ma. Antonio Gonzales,
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AE