Sabado, Pebrero 21, 2015

PR: Honda CLICK 125I; THE SCOOTER OF THE FUTURE HAS ARRIVED

Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI) officiallyannounces the introduction of New Honda Click 125i, dubbed as the “future of scooters”.

The Honda Scooter revolution continuous from the unique concept of Honda Zoomer-X which is the 1st scooter of its kind toHonda CLICK 125i which is another Philippines’ 1stscooter of its kind never seen before in Philippine market.This model will surely capture the hearts of every Filipino customer not only for the young generation but for the young at heart as well.



Equipped with New Generation Intelligent 125cc global engine with cutting edge technological features developed simultaneously with other Honda-dominated-scooter countries like Thailand and Indonesia.

“The Click 125i is our answer to customers who are looking for Environmental friendly Super Sports Scooter with superior specification, unbeatable features and “futuristic” design. Fortunately for Philippine scooter market, we are not going to wait for the future, but the future will be now with the introduction of the New Click 125i eSP”, says Elie Salamangkit Jr. – New Model & Accessory Development Manager of Honda Philippines.

The Click 125i presents an aggressive and sporty design with a sleek and innovative look based on the image of the new engine featuring cutting-edge technology and an exhilarating ride, while projecting a“slim & sharp” futuristic image”.

PGM-FI, a technology pioneered by Honda since the introduction of Honda CX500Turbo in 1982, the 1st in the world Fuel Injected Motorcycle is also used in this model. However, the innovation is not focused on the Fuel injection of this scooter. Every aspect that was developed in the Click 125i is Honda's effort in providing products that delivers better benefits and exceeds customer expectations.

Honda’s dedication to provide the Joy of riding a motorcycle is clearly demonstrated in the use of the revolutionary HONDA SMART TECHNOLOGY.The Click 125i brings future technology to the present with cut-away innovations never seen before in the local motorcycle history such as Enhance Smart Power (eSP), Idling Stop System (ISS)and trendsetter  Combined Brake System(CBS).

While it does not have a“sixth sense” and cannot predict your thoughts or where you want to go, the Click 125i, has its own version of eSP and knows what riders want from their scooters.

Honda’s eSP or Enhanced Smart Power is an advance engine technology that combines high power and high fuel efficiency with a quiet start and smooth eco-friendly engine.eSP technology is able to maximize the efficient combustion and minimize friction to reduce the risk of waste, and to optimize the energy out. eSP technology is integrated with the Unique Honda ACG starter that is able to start the engine jolt free and with a more refined sound, as well as the basis for the application of advanced feature Idling Stop System (ISS). The benefit of Honda Smart Technology isfurther optimized with the advent of technology Combi-Brake System (CBS) which balances braking the rear wheels and front optimally.

The Honda ACG starteris exclusively developed for comfortable frequent operation of the idling Stop System. The engine is started via the same AC generator used to generate electricity and charge the battery while riding. This eliminates the need for a conventional starter motor, thus there are no reduction gears and gear meshing noises… just smooth, quiet starts.

The PGM-FI built-in Liquid cooled engine boasts of 8.40 kW (11.4PS) @8500 RPM maximum power and 11.16 N.m @6500 RPM maximum torque and delivers class leading fuel efficiency of 64.3 km/liter at 50kph or 58.9KM/liter under ECE R40 testing method  *<Actual fuel consumption may be higher or lower depending on drivers habit and actual driving condition>.

TheIdling Stop System (ISS) of the Click 125i is one of the reasons for its fuel efficiency. Compared to the conventional engine which continuously consumes fuel once the engine is started, ISS eliminates wasteful fuel consumption by automatically switching the engine off after 3 secondsin traffic lights and other brief stops; and when you have to move all you have to do is just to twist the throttle to Start up and Go in less than a second.

In addition, the New Honda Click 125i eSP also features dependable Honda Safety and Security features like standard automaticSide Stand Switch where the engine does not start up when in the down position, and Brake Lock easily operated to prevent the motor jump when started or remains in the idle state when stopped on a hill.Bigger tubeless tires for better traction and more secure feeling and comfort compared to other brands. Another excellent feature is the ever reliablesafety magnetic key (Magnetic Key Shutter) which effectively prevents theft and push-button seat opener.  The New Honda Click 125ieSP also has the largest luggage capacity in its class at 18 liters which is capable of storing aFull-face helmet.

Image of thisFuturistic Super Sport Scooter is complemented by its Trendsetter LCD Meter Panel and class leading Dual Keen Eyes LED Headlight projecting a commanding “Night-Face-Image”.The LED headlight provides a better advantage for the rider through 80% higher light intensity, 80% more efficient power consumption, and longer lifetime.

Finally, the Adoption of a wide range of low-friction technologies and Excellent Combustion Efficiency of this engine ensures Click 125i’s better fuel efficiency and better total all-around performance.

With the latest technology and appearance, the All New Honda Click 125i is offered at a reasonable price of SRP PhP 87,900.00and available in 3 premium colors, Pearl Horizon White, Asteroid Black Metallic and Candy Rosy Redwith Honda Genuine Accessories in selected Honda 3S shops.

Now, the future is here… the New Click 125i driven by the Power of Dreams…

For more information, visitwww.hondaph.com:







Biyernes, Pebrero 13, 2015

Theater Review: Time Stands Still by Red Turnip - When is Love Enough?

"I thought marriage will change me."
                                                                               -Sarah talking to James "Time Stands Still"

When love changes everything. When love conquers all pain.  When love drives us apart.  This are the thoughts that would come to mind when you get to watch the 2nd season-ender production of Red Turnip of Donald Marguilles "Time Stands Still".

Staying true to their calling, Red Turnip's production focuses on the different emotions and aspect of man to his environment.  Opening their 2nd season with Rabbit Hole, Red Turnip aims to capture the metro again with this award winning piece.

This is my second chance to view a Red Turnip production and I am still amazed with the pieces that they get to pick for Filipino viewing.  Compared to Cock, Time Stands Still has more quotable lines that it is quite a challenge to view, write and take pictures all at the same time.

Synopsis:
TIME STANDS STILL is the story of Sarah, a photojournalist who must return home with her journalist boyfriend James after sustaining injuries from war-torn Middle East. The play follows their love story as they negotiate a more ordinary life, far from the thrills of a battleground. Yet the comforts of urban domesticity—the simple pleasures and small compromises—can be a minefield of its own. "Time Stands Still" is a blazingly important play about responsibility - to ourselves, to our loved ones, to our community, and to our world.

"Are you God?."
                                                                             -Mandy talking to Sarah "Time Stands Still"

This is technically Rem Zamora's 2nd stage play directorial piece after his successful staging of Cock. He never failed to amaze me on his interpretation and vision as to how a play is to be mounted for the viewing public.  His idea of combining projected images to show time transition and using an in-the-round blocking despite the stage set-up was a marvel to behold.  He was able to bring along a creative team that helped him bring to light this production though its light and realistic sets.  I am not claustrophobic but the opening scene gave me a feeling of being closed in when the house lights slowly faded out and images flashed at the walls; making you focus on the wall and set presented in front of me.

 "How can you live by yourself with all that you have seen?"
                                                                           -Sarah talking to James "Time Stands Still"

Time Stands Still is about the love between two individuals that brought them together and has also driven them apart.  It is about love that helped them survive their traumas but it also made them see things at a different light.  Such is the dilemma that unfolds in this stage piece.  Sarah is a photojournalist played by respected stage actress Ana Abad Santos, while veteran stage and film actor Nonie Buencamino played the role of James, a journalist.

All of the actors played their roles to the best as expected from their caliber.  Ana displayed her skills as an actress by portraying a person caught between her love for her profession, love for the person who is there for her and her personal guilt because of her role as a photojournalist.  Nonie is the journalist who is caught between his love for the woman in his heart and his personal dream to help ease his own ghost which resulted from his profession.  Supported by Nor Domingo and Giannina Ocampo, playing the roles of Richard and Mandy respectively, the quartet is complete!  The roles of both Nor and Giannina may be supporting in nature but very important!  They gave the needed balance in this emotional piece - especially the candid lines of Mandy, as delivered by Giannina.

They all displayed clear facial expressions that is so important with this type of stage set-up.  Their expressions spoke in volumes!  From Ana's pain to Nonie's frustrations, from the true love felt by Richard (played by Nor) to his young girlfriend, Mandy and to the candidly naive but true emotions of Mandy (played by Giannina).  The camaraderie among the four is true and felt.  It showed on the way they interacted onstage and created that friendship that their roles called for.

"There is so much beauty in the world and all we see is misery . . . both of you."
                                                                             -Sarah talking to Mandy "Time Stands Still"

This 2nd production for their 2nd season truly speaks volume in the heart of the artists involved and the people who gets to view it.  True that it was presented in the persona of journalist but if one would simply take time to analyze things, one would see that he or she was once been their shoes.  We all have felt that feeling of being torn between profession and man.  That feeling of being torn between our personal dream and that of the person we love.  When we have to decide and stand on it.  When we have to feel pain for the price of our own decisions in life.

This is one piece worth of your time.  Not because of its visual effects but because of the heart placed in it.  Heart coming from the director, from the actors and from the entire production of this piece.  Time has truly stood still for me when I was there watching this Red Turnip production.  A moment that truly captured me, heart and soul - as a viewer, a former stage persona and a person who knows how it felt to be torn between two loves.

Kudos to Red Turnip!

"Let us stop running."
                                                                                  -James to Sarah "Time Stands Still"

Photos:
(All photos used were personally taken by me during the press preview of Red Turnip's "Time Stands Still")




































Huwebes, Pebrero 12, 2015

Make Your Valentines More Special the #VictoriaCourt Way

Valentines is a date much awaited by couples, young and old alike.

From chocolates to flowers, stuff toys to simple cards, serenades to dinner; all is set for this Saturday.  None can be said true with what #VictoriaCourt has in store for those who would like to make this Saturday more special.  Known for its themed rooms and good service, #VictoriaCourt is now giving you another reason to make a special day more special.


A special package is set for all couples who would like to make this Valentines day more special.  For as low as Php 2,299.00 you will get to enjoy any of the deluxe room with a set dinner for two.  With this, you can choose from either a couples shirt or a bottle of wine as a special gift from #VictoriaCourt.  You may also opt to get a suite for the amount of  Php 2,999.00

For romantic reservations, please call 0917-9810084.

Let #VictoriaCourt make this Valentines more special for you and your love one.  Enjoy a #VCExperience!


PR: GSK Launches the Search for Winners Against Asthma 2015


Do you know what Kim Chiu, Arnel Pineda and Michael Christian Martinez have in common? They all have Asthma yet have accomplished so much in their respective fields.

Do you know of a friend, loved one or relative who are winning against asthma as well?
Do you want them recognized as winners against asthma just like KimArnel and Christian?

On February5,GSK will launch the Search for Winners Against Asthma 2015. The campaign aims to choose and recognize 10 young asthmatic achievers from different walks of life.

The advocacy likewise introduces Olympic figure skater Michael Christian Martinez as the new face of the campaign.  Martinez, an asthmatic, began experiencing asthmatic bronchitis when he was just two months old.


He recalls being in the hospital frequently and says the cold rink actually helped improve his health. Year after year my health keeps improving, so my mother fully supported me to continue skating saying it's better to spend the money on skating than in the hospital.

The program is a nationwide search for young asthmatic achievers aged 30 years and younger who are outstanding in their respective fields despite having asthma and inspire asthma sufferers that they, too, can win against asthma.

The rationale for the target age group is driven by the fact that asthma is one of the most important chronic disease during childhood causing substantial morbidity1Uncontrolled asthma is associated with a reduced lung function, impaired performance in physical exercise, and impaired quality of
life5More severe asthma leads to more frequent school absenteeism which may negatively affect
an individual’s level of education and, possibly, choice of career5People within this age group are in the process of developing the necessary knowledge and skills that will enable them to achieve
their goals in life and asthma should not deter them from realizing their full potential. Thus it is
necessary at this early stage to raise their awareness on asthma and how they can win against it.

The Search for Winners Against Asthma will run from February until May 2015 and will be touring different schools and drugstore outlets to spread the advocacy and invite more people to join the campaign.

The deadline for submission of entries is on March31,2015.  All entries will be screened during the first week of AprilAs we celebrate World Asthma Day on May5, the top 20 finalists will be announced and will be followed immediately by online voting. The top10 Winners Against Asthma will be announced and awarded by the 3rd week of May 2015.

This advocacy campaign is supported by the Philippine College of Physicians (PCP), Philippine Academy of Family Physicians (PAFP), Philippine Society of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (PSAAI), Huawei and Folded &Hung.

For more information please visithttp://www.facebook.com/winagainstasthma


 ASTHMA AS A PUBLIC HEALTH ISSUE

It is estimated that asthma affects around 235 million people worldwide2 with 250,000 annual worldwide deaths recordedAnother 100 million people are projected to suffer from the disease by
2025.3

In the Philippines, there are over 10 million cases of people with asthmaand remains the most common chronic disease of childhood morbidity as measured by school absences, emergency visits and hospitalizations.1

Despite the availability of treatment guidelines and medicines for the treatment and management of asthma, the majority of patients with asthma remain to be uncontrolled thus leading to compromised lives.  According to the AIRAP 2 study, only 1% of children with asthma in the Philippines are well- controlled.5

90% of asthma patients expect to have symptoms as part of their condition.653% of asthma patients regularly use rescue medication at least once per day to cope with their symptoms.7In the Asia Pacific, which includes the Philippines, activity limitation caused by asthma was considerable. A mean of 44.7% of respondents reported that normal physical activity was compromised, and
37.9% believed that their choice of job or career was limited.  A total of 52.7% of respondents said that sports and recreation were affected, and 37.6% believed their lifestyle was restrictedAlmost
50% reported sleep disturbances.4

Asthma can be a serious condition but it can be controlledAccess to doctors and treatment has been shown to significantly decrease asthma deaths and hospitalizations.8People with asthma can lead normal and active lives. They can even excel.



WIN AGAINST ASTHMA TODAY



In February 2014, GlaxoSmithKline(GSK)launched Win Against Asthma Todayan integrated advocacy campaign aimed at increasing awareness and amplify existing efforts to  spread information about asthma and how it can be managed.

The campaign also encourages patients to consult their doctors and discuss the best way to manage their asthma.

A lot of asthma patients do not realize that they are settling by accepting as normal the lifestyle restrictions resulting from uncontrolled asthma. Patients unnecessarily accept symptoms, assuming that frequent symptoms, exacerbations and lifestyle limitations are an inevitable consequence of having asthma. They may feel that although current treatments can alleviate their asthma symptoms, they just need to accept and bear that it normally happens.   This is where the partnership and constant consult with their doctors become very important.

To prove that the disease should not be a deterrent from living ones life to the fullest, real asthma patients were invited to provide testimonies of their experiences and they how won against the illness. Celebrity asthmatics, Kim Chiu and Arnel Pineda became the featured ambassadors for the first wave of the campaign.

As more asthma patients become aware that they can win against asthma just like Kim and Arnel, the campaign aims to strengthen its pool of ambassadors to continuously inspire more patients to take control of their asthma.





References

1               International study of asthma and allergies in childhood (ISAAC): rationale and methods,
1995
2               The global asthma report 2011
3               Global Initiative for Asthma. GINA Report Global Strategy for Asthma Management and
Prevention. December 2011
4               EurRespirRev2006;15:10–16
5               Allergy2013;68:524–530
6               BellamyD etal. Prim Care RespJ2005;14:252-258
7               Demolyetal. EurRespRev2010;19: 150-15
8               Thorax2006;61:663–670

*         Official GSKP CorporateProfile

Photos:
(Photos from the launch event was personally taken by me during the said event)

Francis S. Del Val, President and GM of GSK Phil



Kim Chiu being interviewed

Kim Chiu, Winner Against Asthma Ambassador

Phone patch call with Michael Martinez


During the Q&A