Friday, March 29, 2013

C3: CustomerContactChannels Raves Manila


Being an active consumer, I am more or less familiar with what a BPO company is all about. A BPO employee I personally knew is the one who answer my calls whenever I have inquiry with a certain product I just purchased. More often I call the telecom where I have my mobile phone subscription or sometimes my personal bank.
Only until recently when I got an invitation from a BPO company that I came to knew deeper what's happening inside a real BPO office. I was glad to have met Mr. Andy Sarakinis, Vice President and Country Manager of C3. C3 is not just any call center company, I learned. The firm is capably backed with team leaders that are well experienced and with proper technical knowhow.
As shared by Mr. Sarakinis, “I was here in the Philippines in 1999 from South Florida to test the waters. Before, 70% of the call center agents were females with the remaining 30% males. Now, it’s 60% women and 40% men. There’s been a shift in the age in today’s BPO agents where the older ones are increasing in number. In 2000 alone, 95% were below 30 years old. To date, there’s an increase in those older than 30, with a few in their 50s joining the industry. Every one of these agents could rise to the next level after three months like one of our fast-rising employees April Torrecampo, who thought she had none of the qualities required of a call center agent, but proved that her latent skill just needed to be harnessed". 


Ms. Crystabel Cardenas, the company's HR Director, herself already worked with the BPO industry for three years, according to her "A career path with C3 is equated with opportunities for growth. Globally, about 9 out of 10 C3 employees are promoted from within.

What makes it different from other BPO firms,C3 offers above industry benefits to its employees and is constantly outfitting its human relations policies to fit the needs of its workforce. Kevin Urrutia, the Vice President of Operations asserts, “When we talk about pay scales among call centers in the Philippines, C3 is at the 80th percentile - meaning if there are 100 call centers, C3 pays higher than 80 of them.”

“Inexperienced agents, those who have no prior call center experience, receive P16,000 starting pay. Those with a degree of experience receive up to P18,000 monthly wage. Plus they receive HMO benefits that they can share with a family member as long as they remain employed. It could be for a spouse or child, parent or sibling. Beneficiaries are named and could be changed at the start of every contract cycle. Lateral transfers are not done here in Manila yet but in our US branches they do,” she continued.

She also shared why C3 is literally different from the pyramid hierarchy of most corporate set-ups. “We are employee-centric and follow the inverted triangle approach wherein the grievance approach is immediate. This is made possible through regular supervisory visits. Our focus is on the entry level; mostly for support people and agents,” she enthused. Crystabel talks from over 13 years of experience in Human Resources dealing with fast-paced, rapidly-expanding local and multinational companies, and it is no mean feat that C3 now is counted as one of the most effective and productive BPOs in the Philippines.

C3 is definitely making an impact in the Philippines’ customer care industry with its own brand of performance optimization. Performance optimization, an element of C3 University, is where re-training for a new field and/or higher position takes place. It is the ‘silver lining,’ as its mentoring process helps employees climb the corporate ladder of success in their work life.

C3 University is an on-line training tool wherein an employee undergoes an aptitude test. Meanwhile, the Cadet-ship Program runs at an average of three months. The term can be extended depending on an applicant’s performance and evaluation rating. These promotion avenues provide the means to step up the C3 ladder.

When C3 opened on Nov 1, 2011, it started with 30 people on opening day. Now, the employee roster has risen to make C3 one of the fastest growing BPOs to date, as evidenced by an ever-increasing human resource inventory and a steady vote of confidence from its serviced clientele.

C3 is also strong on the value that charity begins at home. Cardenas emphasized that “C3's core values include open communication systems, accountability and helping the community through our CSR efforts. By community, we begin with our very own agents. For example, the people serving our pantry must be related to an employee. And as long as they have the support and patronage of our staff, they continue serving us with whatever type of food they make available at the refectory. Also during the Habagat, a number of agents were trapped in C3 and couldn't go home because the floodwater in their respective areas was really high. So our 11th floor recruitment section was turned into a shelter for them and their families and C3 contingency funds were used for logistics."


C3’s other international locations include Guatemala City, Guatemala and Panama City, Panama in Central America; Glasgow, Scotland and Sofia, Bulgaria in Europe; and Dalian, China and Mumbai, India in Asia. Its U.S. locations are in Idaho, Utah, Arizona, Oklahoma, and Texas, with headquarters located in Plantation, near Miami, Florida.



About C3
C3/CustomerContactChannels is a global provider of contact center services unlike any other in the market today. Services include sales, service, performance optimization, reputation management and complete customer interaction management via traditional, web, and emerging communication channels. C3 positively engages and promotes our clients’ brands with every contact we make with their customers. With a global team that is thousands of employees strong, the company is headquartered in Plantation, FL. More information can be found at www.c3connect.com and http://jobs.c3connect.com/manila. 


The recruitment line: Direct Line 479-7470 / Trunk Line 479-7400.

Thanks C3 for allowing us a closer look.


Sunday, March 24, 2013

A Blessed Palm Sunday


I promised myself that I will bring back my little boy in Naga City when he turn 7 years old and if possible it will be during the Penafrancia Feast. That's because I think by then, he will be able to tolerate the long travel when he is older enough.

But since hubby surprised us with a vacation, the Bicol visit was made earlier. We arrived here Friday night, and yesterday we just stayed home the whole day getting busy with family and friends celebrating my SIL's graduation.

Just in time, its Palm Sunday today, so before we went around Naga City, we visited the Basilica Minore first and foremost so at least I can still fulfill my promise.


My little boy Ivan with the Basilica priest who officiated the Palm  Sunday mass we attended
The Basilica Minore located at Balatas Road, Naga City is home for the Image of Our Lady of Penafrancia. The basilica was fully constructed in September 1981.  On May 22, 1982, no less than the late, His Eminence Jaime Cardinal Sin officiated the solemn inauguration and dedication.

in front of the Basilica Minore
The Feast of Our Lady of Penafrancia is being celebrated in during the 3rd Saturday and Sunday every September of the year.  It is when millions of Bicolanos and even non-Bicolanos who are devotees of INA flock Naga City in Camarines Sur to pay honor to the Virgin of Penafrancia, miraculous patroness of the Bicol Region. 

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Good Grooming Inside and Out for Pasig City with Schick


We all know in the last few months, our country was beset with the challenges of natural calamities. For some, we attribute the cause due to our lack of care for our environment. The metro in particular was not spare and experienced severe flooding due to blocked drainage and unclean surroundings.  Well its good to know that there are groups that advocates cleanliness and taking care of our community.

Schick razors preach advocacy of “looking good inside and out” as it takes proper grooming to a whole new levels with the Suaveng Ahit, Gwapong Schick Barangay Tour. The Schick caravan rolls into communities nationwide, as the brand stresses the importance of both personal and orderly community. 


“The project came into fruition because of our need to touch people’s lives where it matters most and that is through the community,” says Claire Guevarra, senior brand manager for Schick Philippines. “If we could get people to better themselves through proper self-grooming, then we can also encourage these same people to better each other’s lives by caring for their community.” 


The Schick caravan recently rolled into Barangay Kalawaan, Pasig City, to get residents to buy in to this holistic wellness campaign.

The event at Barangay Kalawaan was Schick’s sixth stop in its ongoing personal and community grooming campaign. The caravan has already visited neighborhoods in areas around Cavite, Caloocan, Muntinlupa, Quezon City and Antipolo. The Suaveng Ahit, Gwapong Schick Barangay Tour looks forward to visiting more communities within the next couple of months to spread the good word on grooming.



The tour is part of Schick’s “Shave for a Cause” campaign in which the brand gives back to the community with the help of its patrons. Initiatives like the Schick Barkada Showdown offer incentives to local charitable institutions, while the Schick Donation to Scholars aids underprivileged students to pursue their education through the SNDT Tulay Para Sa Kabataan Educational Foundation. 




For more information on tours, prizes, and other promos, visit Schick’s website (www.schick.com.ph) or connect with them via Facebook (facebook.com/schick.ph).

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Who is General LECHON?


General’s Lechon started as a home-based lechon business ventured by couple Brian and Lynett Ong whose recipe originates from San Carlos City in Negros Occidental that comes in different flavors namely Original, Curry, Garlic and Chili-Garlic.

The idea of a lechon business bloomed out of love for the owners, Bryan and Lynn. With all the fascination of the people for our country’s beloved roast pig, it had somehow convinced them to bring a different take on lechon delectation in Manila. In its truest form, a pig, removed of its innards, cleansed and put on a stake and roasted on smoldering spit-fire from charcoals, has always been the highlight of many feasts. The superstar of any rural gatherings such as fiestas, which marks the way Filipinos take pride in its own tradition in the culinary scene.

General’s Lechon is an inspiration paying homage to its ancestral beginning, San Carlos City, Negros Occidental. It is where Bryan Ong had her wife tried the best tasting lechon she had. Though not a big fan of lechons, she fell in love with the local Negros-style lechon. Since then she craved for it, and what can love not do, just to please his beloved. After coming back to Manila, they had Bryan’s family lechonero come over and prepare lechon for them.

It took them more than 50 different lechons to perfect the one the couple like. Transforming their backyard in Paranaque, into a lechonan, made them more serious and closely knitted in making sure they give out their best products. Sure, there are countless lechon marketers around but what set theirs apart is the quality of swine they use. It should be native pigs only. The lechon is subtly spiced and seasoned with lemongrass, salt and leeks, among other secret ingredients.

From what used to be a small home-business, since 2007, it is now one of the most loved lechon brand in the metro and ranked as the no. 1 lechon of Spot.ph for 2012. Foodies and lechon connoisseurs rave about their lechons. With four types of flavors filling up the lechons’ stomach, the Original, Chili-Garlic, Curry and Garlic, customers have more options to enjoy their lechon.

photo credit: www.gastronomybyjoy.com

How does a lechon make it to the list? Aside from using native pigs from a swine farm just at the outskirt of Manila, science and engineering was applied to calculate and thus maintain the consistent flavor that is said have the authenticity of a Negros-style lechon, and this is where Bryan Ong comes in. Though cooked in old-fashioned style, they devised some formulas from the original procedure. Just imagine how the pale pigs stuffed with Lynn’s mix of herbs and spices fashionably hoisted on long bamboos and carefully cooked on charcoals from sustainable woods, turn to a brassy golden reddish brown skinned, while the stuffing permeates to the meat and the heat slowly burns the fat there is to the native pigs.

With expansion on the top of their game, more products are now filling up their store shelves to give the utmost satisfaction in enjoying lechon in various ways from jarred Lechon Paksiw to Atchara. Lynn also have put her hands in roast chickens, which like their lechons are flavored. “It is always advised that calls are to be made ahead, like a week to reserve at least one lechon for an event, for regular customers know how to order because orders tend to pile up on our calendars. We do respect each of our clients specific needs for their lechon degustation,” said Bryan Ong.

With these in mind, a new joint was set to be open, to stand as a pick up station for ordered lechons. Strategically positioned at a gas station in Makati to give ease to customers getting their lechons or even buying by the kilos. While making sure even a kilo of sliced lechon of your choice make it to your plate still palatable.

General's Lechon will be opening their first branch this March 20, 2013 near Edsa-Pasay Road Makati where people can buy their flavored lechon in kilos.

Store Address: 3 Guillermo St., Ramos Compound, Sun Valley DriveParañaque City
Take-out Branch: 2nd floor of Petron Gas Station, Edsa corner Pasay Road, Makati City
For orders and delivery: (632) 408- 6850 / (63) 917- 897 5966 


For more information, visit their: Website: http://www.generals-lechon.com
                                                  Facebook: http://facebook.com/generalslechon
                                                  Twitter: @generalslechon

Saturday, March 16, 2013

BOBA Baby Carrier Giveaway II


Welcome to the Boba Carrier Giveaway Part II!
bobacarrier
Sponsored by: Boba Family
tweet-vertical
Check out Everything Mommyhood's review of the Boba Carrier 3G HERE.
'Being with your baby always need not be tedious"
Now for the giveaway, one lucky winner will win a Boba Carrier of their choice.
US only. 18 and up.
All winning entries WILL be verified
Giveaway ends 4/1/2013 at 12:00am Eastern
Disclosure: GIAY TO THE WORLD is not responsible for sponsored prize shipment. All opinions are that of my own and may differ from yours. I was not compensated in any way for the promotion of this giveaway.

Friday, March 15, 2013

The Coconut Cream Pie of Puzzle Mansion


Tagaytay City is our own version of Baguio City here down south because of its cooler climate and serene surroundings. Overlooking is the famous Taal Volcano, an active volcano that sits in the middle of a fresh lake. Its a favorite destination of local and foreign tourists. 


Taal Volcano, Tagaytay City

Lately, the city was put into the world map when the Puzzle Mansion, home to the world's largest collection of jigsaw puzzles was recognized by the Guinness World Records.

We were here for a visit several days ago.  Not only the puzzle collection was spectacular, its here I've tasted the very tempting COCONUT CREAM PIE. Let me tell you, it really tastes good and me and my little boy almost finished the whole pie, ha!ha!



So if you happen to visit Tagaytay, drop by the Puzzle Mansion as well and don't forget to try this cream pie.  Its only available here, because its their own recipe. A box costs P380.00, its almost the same size as a regular buko pie.

Micronutrient Deficiency Among Filipino Kids, Not Just a Small Problem


I have worked as a researcher for health and nutrition for 15 years and anything that concerns children's nutrition is my top priority.  The very same thing happened when I became  a mom and had some problem feeding my own child as he grew  up being a picky-eater.  But now I am so thankful that he was able to surpass that stage and has began eating variety of foods, vegetables and fruits in particular.

But still I knew in a much larger scale, our country is still beset by this problem of malnutrition especially among children primarily due to their lack of micronutrient intake.


By their very name, micronutrients are vitamins and minerals that are needed only in very small amounts, but their impact on our health is huge.

Micronutrients like iron, zinc, Vitamin A, and many others are responsible for the vital functioning of our body’s systems, from physical growth and vision, to brain vigor and increased immunity. When the body fails to receive the small quantities of micronutrients that it needs, serious health problems can result in a condition widely regarded as micronutrient deficiency or “hidden hunger”.

The nutritional makeup of the Philippines continues to be characterized by the severity of micronutrient deficiency. According to the Food and Nutrition Research Institute- Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST), 70-90 percent of Filipinos lack iron and Vitamin A in their usual diet.

Two out of ten schoolchildren suffer from iron deficiency anemia, and the incident rises with age. Following closely are those lacking adequate amounts of Vitamin A in their diet.  One out of ten from the same group is Vitamin A deficient.

The same study also shows that two out of ten children are zinc deficient. Zinc is a trace mineral that plays a role in body metabolism, reproductive health, immune function, and more than 200 important chemical reactions in the body.

Inadequate intake of these three important micronutrients may lead to several nutritional problems, including stunting, fatigue, poor concentration, lack of focus and other signs of impaired physical and cognitive development. These may be reflected among schoolchildren who suffer from poor mental and physical performance and frequent absenteeism as a result of impaired immunity. It is also important to have plenty of Vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that boosts immunity, prevents cardiovascular disease, and contributes to healthy skin, among many other benefits.
  
“Making the right food choices is one of the ways to address the problems of micronutrient deficiency,” said Dr. Imelda Agdeppa, Assistant Scientist of FNRI-DOST. “Unfortunately, the inaccessibility of food and money in the majority of Filipino households puts many families at a high risk of getting sick. The good news is there are many products in the market that are affordable and fortified with these micronutrients, and many families are already benefiting from these.”

Experts from FNRI recommend that when there is an inadequate intake of these nutrients, the consumption of foods that are fortified particularly with the three micronutrients primarily lacking in the Filipino diet—Vitamin A, Iron, and Zinc—is  encouraged so as to address nutrient gap.
  
In response to this dietary concern, Nestlé Philippines is intensifying its campaign to promote nutritious and affordable sources of important nutrients especially needed by children, such as BEAR BRAND Powdered Milk Drink. It is fortified with tibay resistensya nutrients like Iron, Zinc, and Vitamin C plus Calcium that kids need for proper growth and to perform well in school.

Monday, March 11, 2013

McDonald's National Breakfast Day



McDonald's Philippines will be joining the other 5,000 McDonald's restaurants in Asia, Middle East and South Africa for the first and biggest celebration of "National Breakfast Day", which will gonna happen on March 18, 2013.

All McDonald's restaurants serving breakfast in the country will be offering 1,000 delicious McMuffins for FREE from 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM via Dine-In, Take-Out, or Drive-Thru.

Terms and Conditions:

  • Coupons for the FREE McMuffin will be given to 1,000 customers on a first-come-first-served basis.
  • Coupon must be surrendered to the crew upon redemption.  Redemption does not require any purchase.
  • The coupon is valid for dine-in, take-out and drive-thru only.
  • Only one (1) coupon will be given per customer.
  • Only one(1) McMuffin can be claimed per coupon.
  • Only one (1) coupon can be redeemed in a single transaction.
  • No coupon, No FREE McMuffin.
  • Coupon/offer is not exchangeable to cash and/or other McDonald's products.
  • McDonald's reserves the right to refuse redemption if coupon was found to be tampered with.
  • Only original McDonald's issued coupons will be accepted.
  • FREE product may vary from illustration.  McDonald's reserves the right to replace the free item at its discretion, without any prior notice.
Visit the McDonald's website for the list of participating branches.



Meet and Greet Gina Gil-Lacuna, the Puzzle Queen


Met her for the very first time during the Guinness World Records Awarding Ceremony on November 29, 2012. Gina Gil-Lacuna is now the title holder and the owner of the largest collection of jigsaw puzzles in all shapes, sizes and form. She has 1,029 puzzles housed at the Puzzle Mansion.



She has 1,028 puzzles when awarded the Guinness Record, the last one she did was a 10,000 pieces of puzzle, which is a birthday gift to her husband and his son.



The museum boasts puzzles that are made of cardboard, wood, plastic which are either flat, circular, 3D and 4D (I used to have an idea that puzzles are only flat, now I know). They depict pictures of people, animals, nature, occasions, religions, business ads, cartoon characters. There are also amazing puzzles of famous paintings by Picasso, Da Vinci, Van Gogh, Michaelangelo, Renoir and Goya to name a few.






According to ma'am Gina, her passion for puzzles began 27 years ago when she did her very first Disney puzzle as a gift for his son Gino who was then 2 years old.  Afterwhich she was enchanted and entertained by puzzles and began buying them during her travels abroad and put them together, thus the birth of her collection.


Her very first puzzle which she did 27 years ago.
A business guru herself, being the woman behind the successful maternity wear brand "Buntis" (I knew this brand because it used to be my maternity dresses before) she is proud to share that her lack of formal education (being a high school graduate) did not became a hindrance for her to succeed. Now, despite her busy schedule running the puzzle museum, she still engages herself with their garment's business operations.

When asked what was the very virtue you learned from doing puzzles? Her reply, "PATIENCE" which I totally agree because for someone to finish putting those pieces of puzzles together needs lots of patience which eventually will turn into perseverance. This hobby can be addicting, LOL.  But I believe, it will always bring about fulfillment.



She is currently doing the Ravensburger Puzzle which she aimed to finish by July 2013.  It is a 32,000 pieces puzzle by Keith Haring entitled Double Retrospect. When finished, it will measure six (6) pieces of plywood,  it might be another world record for her. But accordingly, she might possibly beat her own record as there are still several unfinished puzzles underneath her bed. 


Entrance to the gallery is P100.00, with a guided tour by ma'am Gina herself.



The museum once again put the Philippines, Tagaytay City in particular, on the world map. It has then became a top tourist destination for the locals and foreigners alike. Getting there, you will not get lost as there are visible directional signs that will lead you to the place.



Besides the gallery, the other attraction here is the Puzzle Mansion Bed and Breakfast (read my review HERE). I was personally invited by ma'am Gina to stay overnight here to enjoy and  experience their wonderful accommodation.




There's also a souvenir shop where you can buy presents for your family and friends back home. Puzzles, shirts, caps, towels, wall clocks, calendars, and various sort of gift items.



So the next time you are in Tagaytay City or nearby, don't forget to drop by the Puzzle Mansion and know for yourself how Gina Gil-Lacuna got her title.

Address:
Purok 4 Cuadra St. Brgy. Asisan
Tagaytay City, Philippines 4210
website: http://www.thepuzzlemansion.com/
email: puzzlemansion@gmail.com

Celebrate Summer with the Banana Boat Great Outdoor Fun


On March 17, 2013, the Quezon City Memorial Circle will be transformed into a big big outdoor playground. Banana Boat, a leading brand when it comes to sun protection will begin summer celebration with the Filipino families.

Summer is a much awaited time not only for kids but for everyone.  It means no more schools, thus more time for fun. It is when families had more time together, bonding with each other.  It is when most of us headed to the beach to beat the summer heat. It equates mostly with outdoor activities.  

Banana Boat, is one brand that most of us gets too familiar especially during summer time.  It is a sunscreen lotion, yes! Therefore they are our "confidante" as they also knew about having fun, about a child wanting to go out and play and enjoy everything.


What to expect at the event?

Kids and adults alike can enjoy Circle of fun's amenities including free rides on the carousel and bump cars as well as the Pedal and Paddle, a spot that offers pedaled go-karts that can be used to go around the park or pedaled boats to go around the lagoon. Guests can also admire a bird's-eye perspective of the grounds in a breath-catching zip-line or choose to simply relax with a bike ride just within the area.


Join the game of "Futkal" or "Futbol sa Kalye" (Street Football); learn kite-making.  There will also be a free photo booth and a bonus Banana Boat sunscreen lotion for every picture taken. Get chances to take home some freebies as you join the different on stage games. Everyone will surely be delighted with the interactive magic and bubble shows.

Let's not forget that there will be free learning seminars on "how we can fully take care of our skin?" An invited dermatologist, an expert on skincare will talk about the do's and don'ts when it comes to our family's skincare.

Lots and lots of activities that will gonna make our whole day stay full of fun and surprises. But worry no-more if you get yourself exposed to the sun, as Banana Boat will be handling out sunscreen lotions to keep everyone protected from the sun's harmful rays.

How to register for the event?

Just purchase a P250 activity stub which is available during the event date. This already entitles a family or any group of four (4) to enjoy the playground's amenities. Also includes a Banana Boat product, a Banana Boat premium item, FREE entrance to the Circle of Fun, endless fun and recreation.


You may also opt to register online through the Banana Boat Facebook Page.


A press launch was held last March 8, 2013 to formally introduced the "Great Outdoor Fun" event with L - R, Mr. Peter Amores (Head of FUTKAL Philippines), Ms. Cara Tecson (Marketing Manager of Banana Boat), Mr. Todd Montgomerie (Managing Director of Energizer Philippines), Ms. Claire Guevarra (Banana Boat Senior Brand Manager), and Ms. Lady Reyes (Junior Trade Marketing Manager).




Make sure that your family is protected this summer and all throughout the year. You can choose from the various Banana Boat line of products which are available at Watsons, health and beauty supermarkets and drugstores nationwide.



Saturday, March 9, 2013

Kebabers: To Satisfy your Shawarma Cravings


As we observed the Lenten Season, part of this tradition is to lessen or if possible skip our meat intake. Therefore we tend to consume more of non-meat products and more of fish and seafoods.  Related to this is something recommended to satisfy your cravings.


KEBABERS with their very own version of crunchy Fish Shawarma is just perfect this Lenten season. Made with 100% Dory fish fillet marinated with our Kebabers own recipe special ingredient, fried until tender and crispy. Adding to its freshness is a mix of cabbage and carrots with a choice of succulent creamy garlic sauce and chili garlic wrap in healthy Pita bread that makes the right combination.

What are you waiting for? Hurry try their healthy and crunchy fish shawarma. With their cozy ambience perfect for barkadas and there reasonable yet quality menu you will surely back for more.


Also try their other sumptuous fish dishes like FISH Ahoy (comes in a rice bowl with iced tea) and Crunchy Fish a healthy version of Kebab.



KEBABERS has three branches now they are located in SM City Fairview – Ground Level,Annex 1 Eastwood Citiwalk 2 – 3rd level and in Katipunan infront of Ateneo gate 2. KEBABERS will be opening more branches in Capitolyo Pasig, The Fort, SM City North-Edsa Sky Garden and SM City Manila  this year to cater their growing clientele.


Tuesday, March 5, 2013

The Medicard-Metafit Fitness Boot Camp Challenge


After the holiday season, and with all those parties that happened wherein we loaded some calories.  Its time to shed out some pounds and be fit once again.

Fit, Fun and Fresh - an evening of work-out that will surely make you sweat and healthy. 

The Medicard-Metafit Fitness Boot Camp trial session was held at Medicard Lifestyle Center last February 16, 2013, in collaboration with APEX-Metafit coaches Jim Saret (Founder), Toni Dimaguila-Saret and Grace Siongco, together with Hazel Chua and Raffy Tan of Biggest Loser Pinoy Edition and spearheaded by Medicard president Dr. Nicky Montoya and Ms.Kate Cruz-Joaquin, Medicard Marketing Manager.

In the recent briefing event of MediCard-Metafit, the bloggers and some participants were already put to training what they’ll experience heavily at the boot camp which starts on February 25.


The workout techniques and methods - 10 jumping jacks, 10 squats, 10 pushups, 10 lounges per leg for a warm-up stint focuses more on lower body strength with over-all metabolic exercises. This was done the AMRAP (as many rounds as possible) within 4 minutes, pretty much the same as what you’d expect from a crossfit trial.
After the warm-up comes the Enter the 50/10, participants were made to do as many repetitions as they can of a specific exercise within 50 seconds with a 10 seconds rest in between. For a beginner, the second part of the work-out composed of “Burpees”, crab-like lateral movements, High Knees and Plank can be quite tiresome. But as any other Metafit trainings, coaches were there not only to guide the participants physically but they were also very motivational and supportive. 
What the participants experienced that night was just a teaser of what to expect from the boot camp; the rest of the exciting drills and activities are yet to come, at the same venue which is the Medicard Lifestyle Center. 


We all make many compromises in our life. One of the biggest and the most compromised aspect of our lives today involve our own health and fitness. It may be because of the busy schedule and different priorities that we opt to neglect our body and its needs. We are unaware of the effects of these compromises we make, until it strikes us. Living a healthy and fitter life may be difficult but is not impossible. It is just a matter of self-discipline and solid commitment in taking care of your body and motivation. So why not give Metafit a try?

Saturday, March 2, 2013

Air Asia Cafe's Refreshing Shakes: Something to Cool Down the Summer Heat


I used to fly with Air Asia during our trips to Brunei via Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia route.  Something I've been missing since I am an avid fan or their fare promos, the airline staff are not just beautiful people, they are so friendly as well. Thus, its always a hassle-free even I am traveling with my little boy.

Now there is something more to expect from Air Asia. Have you been out lately? Notice how the sun is more irritating to your skin than in past weeks? Well, summer is definitely here. Even the rain has turned into drizzles. Notice also the ambulant vendors selling ripe mangoes and the students crammin for final school projects, thesis and exams. The salons are also swamped with girls prepping for prom.

For summer, experts have advised that we drink more liquids than usual to fight the heat and to stay cool. An even better way to keep cool this summer is Air Asia Café’s refreshing drinks. They have fruit shakes made from green mango, dalandan and guyabano.


They also have a delicious green tea with lychee. You can really taste the lychee. It’s a great mix of tea and fruit. And, if you’re craving for a snack, then you can get one of the sweet buns. These come in three authentic tasting variants: Korean Chicken Barbecue, Chicken Teriyaki and Beef Bulgogi.

An ice cold shake and a sweet bun – the best combination for a cool summer. What makes this really cool is that you can now buy a shake with a sweet bun at a special price offering.

Air Asia Café is located right outside the Arrival Exit. You can’t miss it, and you shouldn’t miss it!




Air Asia Café is operated by the Manila Catering Corporation. (www.manilacateringcorporation.com.ph













HARRIS “THE HITMAN SARMIENTO” SUBMITS ORTIZ; RETAINS PXC LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE


Last February 16, PXC staged its eighth mixed martial arts event in the Philippines and 35th overall. This is a promise delivered by no less than Pacific X-Treme Combat general manager EJ Calvo. 

In the first of possibly four events this year in the country, the PXC treated Filipino MMA junkies to nine equally electrifying fights highlighted by the successful title defense of lightweight champion Harris ‘The Hitman’ Sarmiento.


“PXC 35 only solidifies the reign of PXC as the premiere MMA company in Asia Pacific,” Calvo said. “The nine fights we had so far gave MMA fans here in the Philippines something to remember and will definitely make them come back for more PXC events.” 

Coming off a disappointing first-round loss to PXC featherweight superstar Mark Striegl last November, Sarmiento moved back to his natural weight class and retained his 155-pound title belt at the expense of Isaiah Ordiz.

The victory was expected from the veteran Sarmiento, who marked his 60th professional bout with his 36th win, but how he did it was surprising. 

Expected to go toe to toe with Ordiz, Sarmeinto instead opted to take the fight to the ground and emerged successful as he forced his San Pedro, Laguna-born challenger to tap out with a kimura submission move late in the first round. 

“I just wanted to play it smart,” Sarmiento said of his surprising ploy. “I just took advantage of an opening and once I brought him to the ground, I knew I could finish the fight right away.” 

In the main undercard between flyweight contenders, Louis Smolka survived an early beating to defeat Alvin Cacdac via submission and earn a title shot against champion Ale Cali of Davao. 

After suffering a right eyebrow cut that turned his face into a bloody mess in the first round, Smolka suddenly turned the tables in the next two rounds as the Hawaiian turned to his ground and pound game before finishing the game with a rear-naked choke. 

“I’m kind of used to that because I get beat up all the time in training,” said Smolka, who stretched his winning streak to three fights. 

Meanwhile, Troy Bantiag caught Tony Reyes with a solid right punch then finished off his Guamanian opponent with continuous blows to score a referee-stoppage win late in the first round. 

Likewise impressive were the rest of the fights in the event, presented by San Mig Strong Ice and Sports 5, and backed by E-Games, Fitness First, FHM Philippines,FHM.com.ph, Premiere Condoms, Healthway Agility Phil, Beer Below Zero, Eden NightClub, Real Sports Radio, and Loqal.ph

Dario Banario scored a unanimous-decision victory over Joseph Mercado in an all-Filipino battle, Japan’s Chuji Kato forced Egons Racz into submission, Zebastian Kadestam registered a referee-stoppage win against Ron Jhun, while Ernesto Montilla Jr. Miguel Mosqura, and Glen Ranillo all scored a submission wins over Ruel Catalan, Steve Grandeza, and Mark Billena, respectively. 

“Our fight cards are one of the best in the industry, matching some of the most skilled fighters against each other as they climb the rankings,” Calvo said. 

"We are confident that our upcoming shows here in the Philippines will continue to draw bigger crowds. Fans will enjoy watching their favorite PXC fighters and get a chance to see new stars from across the globe.”

A Beautiful Journey for Expecting Parents: Free Workshop


"A Beautiful Journey for Expecting Parents” is the first in a series of free Xpert Workshops that creatively combine two different topics for your knowledge. A workshop on pregnancy & photography sounds like an interesting combination and for Xpert.ph, it makes a great first topic for Xpert Workshops

Join us on March 16, Saturday, 9AM, as experts in OB-Gynecology and newborn photography give tips and advice on how to have a healthy pregnancy and capture special moments in the parents' journey toward parenthood. Speakers are acclaimed OB-Gynecologist Dr. Diana Sarmiento of Filipina MD, and one of the top newborn photographers in the country, Sofia Genato, of The Stork Studio.




Who can join? How to register for the event?
The workshop is free for all. Registration is done online through www.xpert.ph/workshops and an electronic ticket will be generated for each registrant. Once registered, participants should bring a printed copy of the electronic ticket on the day of the workshop as proof of registration.

What can participants expect from the Workshop?
Participants will learn more about practical tips for a happy and healthy pregnancy. They will also learn photography techniques to better capture special moments for the expecting family. There will be discussions,demonstrations and interactions, and refreshments will be served. There will also be a daycare area where kids can stay while parents attend the workshop.

About Xpert Workshops:
The Xpert Workshops is created by Xpert.ph, a knowledge-based social network, in collaboration with Encouraging Communication, a training consulting brand that has years of experience in helping individuals and organizations increase performance and results through improved communications and better relationships at work (and beyond!).




Friday, March 1, 2013

FLM Boba Baby Carrier Giveaway


bobagiveaway-1
Sponsored by: Boba Family

Carry your baby with you always, without worries. Get to own this wonderful carrier.

Visit My Four Littles for the Boba Organic Carrier Review.
Cohosted by:
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One winner will receive a baby carrier from Boba Carriers.
US Only. All entries will be verified before winner is notified.
Giveaway ends March 16th at 12:00am.
Disclosure: Giay to the World is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment. To see your brand or business featured on Four Littles Media please email contactus@myfourlittles.com.

Juppy Baby Walker Giveaway


Juppy Baby Walker Giveaway

Have you heard of the Juppy Baby Walker? Well, this is your chance to win a personalized Juppy Baby Walker "Momentum" for your baby or for someone you know. Join the Juppy Baby Walker Giveaway hosted by GEORYL and co-hosted by this blog via the Rafflecopter below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Juppy is known as the safest baby walker, designed with your child's sensitivities in mind. You can learn more about this product by reading the review in Georyl's Juppy Baby Walker Review and Giveaway post.

Note: This contest is open to residents of USA and Canada only.

Good luck and thank you for joining!