CHRISTMAS PARTIES ala PJI

Christmas Parties
Marketing & Advertising, December 17, 2010,  Friday
Editorial Department, December 18, 2010, Saturday


Despite the prevailing situation in the PJI offices, I was able to join in the Marketing & Advertising Christmas Party on the 17th, and the Editorial Division's Christmas Party the following day, December 18, Saturday.

The M&A Christmas party started at 1pm instead of the 4pm prior schedule. Catering was done by Nixon Canlapan's children. We had an exchange gift and raffle prizes. Thank you to Traders Hotel thru Tita Lourdes Arrieta, Elro Corp. thru Cel and BF Bheng L. and GeiserMaclang thru Miss Amor, who send  raffle prizes to our delight. Those who joined were given Ever Bilena Cosmetics gift packs, aside from the raffled off items. For my efforts, I won a Mang Inasal voucher worth P250.
 I did better last year, because there were lots of prizes then.

At the Editorial Christmas Party, those who did not win any of the raffle prizes --- of refs, flat screens, and other appliances --- were given an envelope each with a P500-bill inside. Reimbursement for expenses in coming to the party, I guess. The food was okay, too with the presence of lechons. I saw some of  the editorial staffs holding Unilever gift packs. Unfortunately nobody gave me any. Are they for the lucky ones only?  Yes, last year I won a Panasonic refrigerator, because there were a lot of prizes then, too.

Times are really hard. . . And getting much harder for the employees of PJI.

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Christmas Atmosphere at the PJI Makati Offices

With no knowledge as to when the much anticipated 13th month pay will be given, the usually gregarious Journal employees became restless, the author included. Some employees put up Christmas decorations just to liven the atmosphere. Ms. VAM of the M&A Division started makings plans for a Christmas party for her sales personnel while Tata Gus did the same.  Budg made a Christmas lantern out of the disposable PR CDs which were scattered everywhere. Taking their cues, the desk ladies of the Taliba and People's Journal put up their own versions, somewhat enlivening the whole Editorial Department by hanging on the ceiling gift-wrapped empty boxes, miniature Christmas trees and Christmas lights, too. Yes, and spending for the decors with money out of their own pockets. Management's mantra? No budget (always!)

FYI. Full payt. of the 13th month balance was given second week of January 2011:-(( 

DECEMBER 2010 MOVIE DATE: NARNIA 3 (3D): VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER

December 1, Wednesday 7:00pm

Gateway 3D Cinema 5

NARNIA 3: VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER

Special Screening 

Return to the magic and wonder of C.S. Lewis' beloved world - via the fantastic Narnian ship, the Dawn Treader. In this new installment of the blockbuster; "The Chronicles of Narnia"; motion picture franchise, While Lucy and Edmund Pevensie are visiting their cousin, Eustace Scrubb, they encounter a magical painting that transports them back into the land of Narnia. Once there, they reunite with King Caspian aboard the "Dawn Treader," the first ship to exist in Narnia for hundreds of years. King Caspian takes them on a perilous journey to find seven lords banished by Miraz. Along the way they reunite with the lion Aslan, undertake a series of enchanting and terrifying adventures, and once again face the White Witch.

Release Date:12/10/10

FYI In one of the sequels of the Chronicles of Narnia, King Caspian got married and had a child, who was abducted by an underworld deity.. And the lucky girl who captivated Caspian's heart was the blue star in the Voyage of dawn Treader. She's Ramandu's daughter, the half-star who captures Caspian's heart, who was given no name in the novel, but for the film she has been named Lilliandil. The name was chosen by C.S. Lewis's step-son, "Dawn Treader" producer Douglas Gresham. 

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We almost didn't make it on time! And it would have been a shame if we did missed the screening. . . Gateway 3D Cinema 5 was already full when we arrived. But I won't regret having to ride a jampacked bus and boarding a super jampacked (mahihiya ang sardinas), saunalike ambience of the mrt train last night just to catch the special screening of the Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader at Gateway, QC. ahead of its December 10 regular showing in the metro theaters. Thank you, Mae V. Thank you, 20th Century Fox!

AYALA MUSEUM EXHIBIT NI MONAY

December 1, 5pm
Ayala Museum, Glorietta                               

RE/ENFORCE Exhibit Opening     

To re/enforce is to be persistent in insisting on putting into effect. It is to be vigilant in invoking for continued practice. It is sustained clamor for further action. Such is the central assertion in these exhibitions of four Filipino visual artists whose combined artistic outputs are being mounted at the ArtistSpace of the Ayala Museum which opens on December 1, 2010 at 5:00 p.m.

In “Tuldok,” multi-awarded Antipolo City-based Jerson Samson re-stresses the vox populi while providing a powerful reassertion of popular democracy. The concretization of popular will from the philosophical concept of populism that stuck an imprint amongst the Filipinos after the much-romanticized disenthronement of a dictator mirrors the sociopolitical context in Samson’s previous works employing his current painting style. However in “Tuldok,” there pervades the rhetorical undertones that lie opposite the exaltation of the voice of the people; comes now the exaltation of the people with a voice. In the large oil on canvas “Tayo,” the multitude that brought this new-found democracy can thus be reflected as those who pile up questioning outside the gates of a palace which looms over the horizon, far from their reach, where the popular voice hold office.

Monnar Baldemor in “Usapan” reiterates the need for constant communication between people as it is vital for an artist to communicate with his viewers. Here Baldemor stresses that whether how trivial or mundane or intellectual the subject matter maybe, one reaches out to another effectively through the spoken/written word. It is this spoken/written word that Baldemor infused in his paintings; snapshots of daily life provided with text to further give emphasis on the thoughts of his subjects. Such texts are as vital in the painting as the messages that Baldemor is trying to deliver to his audience.

The convolutions of everyday life constantly being made complex by the unrelenting advancements in technology as evidenced by the changing terrain of his native Cordillera became the focus/locus of Baguio City-based visual artist Ernie Gomez. The encroachment to land and its people and culture swept aside if not annihilated what was then pristine. As reflective as the national scenario, Gomez backtracks to the simplicity of provincial life in “Everyday Lives”. He reinforces this with a pictography of a race, moment, milieu poking on our sensibilities for a lot of introspection and self-evaluation as a people and a nation.  

Yet perhaps the cerebral juxtaposed by the philosophical comes out in Anthony Panugao’s “Conscious│Subconscious.” True to form and figure as in his first solo exhibition last year, Panugao’s apocalypse remains to be foreboding. Also here the artist resummons the function of faith. Panugao’s central premise is anchored upon the question “What if the subconscious mind fuses with the conscious mind?” Like osmosis between two potent faculties distinctly separate.  Panugao utilizes this philosophy of the mind that distills in a mind-body problem to create analytical pieces where the viewer is being asked to re-calculate.

Re/enforce, a collective of exhibitions mounted by Artepinas, Inc. for the ArtistSpace of the Ayala Museum is curated by JCrisanto Martinez and shall be on view until December 13, 2010. Inquiries may be channeled through the Ayala Museum or at (+63) 922.331.41.08 or via electronic mail at info@artepinas.tk.

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Ang “Usapan” nina Monay & Kap

Visual artist Monnar Baldemor and writer Kap Maceda Aguila first met in 1992 while working for the editorial team of a noted publishing group. The two bonded not just over closing pages but the joys of alternative music as well – sharing and discovering new tunes and musical genres. At one time, the two helped form a punk band, Paregoric, with Baldemor on bass, and Aguila on vocals and guitar.

The “Usapan” series was born from a curiosity to see how the written word could work within the colorful domain of Baldemor’s abstract paintings. “While Monnar’s paintings already provide snapshots of daily life and its intricacies, I wanted to give the viewer greater context – and insight – into what the subjects are thinking. More importantly, I wanted them to interact with each other,” says Kap.

Baldemor’s physical manipulations of these subjects are reminiscent of Spanish master Salvador Dali and Hieronymous Bosch of the Netherlands, while the detailed pen and ink strokes recall German painter Ernst Degasperi. Son of the prolific internationally known painter Manuel Baldemor, Monnar shares a preference for pastel colors – but forges a divergent path from the rural, festive landscapes of his father.

Monnar adds: “The text is an equally important of the painting. Rene Magritte, a Belgian surrealist painter, also employed the written word on some of his canvases.”

 “I want to drive what Monnar’s paintings actually seek in the viewers: to pique their curiosity, to think about what we do as a people, and the moments that define us. It wouldn’t be far-fetched to say that there’s profundity and humor in the pedestrian. Like Magritte, Monnar asks us to be sensitive to them,” says Aguila.

Monnar, a University of the East-Caloocan Fine Arts graduate, has earned five Jurors’ Choice nods in the prestigious yearly art tilt of the Artist Association of the Philippines. He was also chosen as finalist in the Phillip Morris Group of Companies Philippine Art Awards. Baldemor has worked in the publishing field for almost two decades and maintained cartoon strips for various publications.

Monnar is a member of the Art Association of the Philippines (AAP), Samahan ng mga Kartonista sa Pilipinas (SKP), and the Pinsel Artist Group of UE Caloocan. He has participated in more than a dozen group exhibitions.

Kap has a BA in Communication (majoring in Journalism) from the University of the Philippines-Diliman. He completed his academic units at the same institution towards an MA in Communication (majoring in Communication Research). Kap writes for the Philippine Star and other publications, bowls, and now plays the drums.

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FYI. I'm proud to say that I know Monay. In the office, he sits right in front of me.  
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CLASH OF THE TOQUE-EN ONES FINALE

Clash of the Toque-en Ones

CHEF SHARWIN TEE IS LIFESTYLE NETWORK’S FIRST EVER STAR CHEF

After an intense two-day live cooking demo followed by a month-long online voting, Lifestyle Network pitted two contenders  for Clash Of The Toque-en Ones: restaurateur Portia Baluyut and Chef Sharwin Tee, just  a step closer to fulfilling their dreams of having their very own food show and being crowned as Lifestyle Network’s first ever Star Chef.

Although the two share a passion for food and cooking, their backgrounds and cooking styles couldn’t be more different.

Rustic Heart

Portia is a self-taught cook, with only her grandmother as mentor, and books and the internet as her references. She left a career in advertising to finally give way to her true calling. She now owns Isabelo Garden restaurant in Marikina and according to her, life is now more delicious. Given the chance, her cooking show would be called Rustic Kitchen, which, simply, is cooking from the heart.

Kitchen Emergencies

Having his own cooking show has always been Sharwin’s dream, even at the young age of six, thanks in large part to the show Wok With Yan, his very first inspiration. A personal chef and a culinary instructor at Xavier School, he received his training from the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts in Vancouver, Canada. Sharwin firmly believes that anyone can cook, and if he wins, he plans to share his skills in an instructional cooking show called Kitchen Emergencies.

During the final challenge the two finalists, didn't just cooked before the judges, but also infront of a live mall audience. The judges during the final showdown were Clash Chairman Chef Myrna Segismundo, managing director of TV Food Chefs Inc.; Chef David Pardo De Ayala, executive chef of Discovery Suites; Chef Jessie Sincioco, owner and chef of Top of the Citi; Chef Jessie by the Rockwell Club, and Enchanté Restaurant; Chef Jill Sandique, owner of Delize; Antonio Ventosa, ABS-CBN Cable and Print Media Group Head, and Vice-President of ABS-CBN International, Leo Katigbak.

The final showdown was divided into 2 parts: A 1 Hour Cook-off and a 15 minute Cooking Show with a Partner Celebrity. During the cooking showdown, both contenders were given 1 hour each to prepare a main dish using coconut milk and dessert using mangoes. Both of them brought their own assistant and cooking paraphernalia. Chef Sharwin was given a 15 minute headstart to to do his thing. He started on his dishes with the sure hands of a winner---and finished cooking exactly on the dot. For me everything was impressive, although the judges reminded him to always ensure the correct temperature for his pasta dish. But even with that as minus point, Sharwin's rolled pasta laing dish bathed in coconut milk and topped of with burnt cheese was a winner.  For dessert, he created a sticky rice ball dessert on a caramel sauce with mango toppings. 

On the other side, Chef Portia was glamor personified during the cook off. Her variation of the Suman at Mangga theme was so simple yet appetizing to the eyes. For the dessert, there were rice rolls crusted with ground cashew nuts and topped with mango strips with condensed milk on the side as sweetener, which she called hubad na suman with mango toppings. For the hungry audience, the appetizing aroma of her deep fried tilapia fillets topped with drizzles of coconut milk sauce and served with steaming rice and a tomato salsa side-dish was heavenly. However, the judges found her tomato salsa too sweet for their tastes and she also failed to use coconut milk as her main ingredient. But she cooked so fast that she had enough time to cook one more dish if needed before her allotted time was over.


The objective according to the judges of the contest why they chose a Filipino theme for the dishes is to elevate our native Filipino products like the coconut and mangoes to world class status as cooking ingredients. And what they want is to show that although these are Filipino dishes, they want something different from the bahay-kubo concept of cooking, hence, making them at par with other world class cuisine.

Although I didn't stay for the 2nd round wherein Sharwin was paired with Phoemela Baranda and Portia was paired with Rovilson Fernandez for their 15 minute cooking show, I knew it in my heart that Chef Sharwin is going to be the winner. In this round, technical skill and visual appeal were the deciding factors.  Hence, two other ABS-CBN executives joined in to judge. And he did made it, Chef Sharwin Tee was declared the winner and the first Star Chef of the Lifestyle Channel for its soon to be cooking show. Kudos!

November 30, 4pm
Rockwell Tent, Powerplant Mall
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DOÑA ELENA CUISINERA CLUB'S Noche Buena Recipes 2010

NOCHE BUENA RECIPES

DECC November 2010
Chef Golda Laurel-Liamzon

I made it to the last DECC meet/demo for 2010 last Saturday despite the traffic, and we really had great fun, great food, games, raffles, etc.
The Christmas menu that Chef Golda prepared was really to die for, and quite easy to make and easy also on the budget. As usual Prof. Callanta's tips were very helpful---although, i think th...ey were forgotten during the melee. He he he
Very impressive array of potluck dishes, regrettably they were gone in a jiffy. But Tita Felisa especially gave me a serving of her hot and spicy chicken wings. I really like the Chinese connection (that's what I call Tita Felisa's group), great bunch! Ms. Jaymee, Prof. Callanta, Cgef Golda, Ms. Zen, and all the DECC members, HAPPY HOLIDAYS and may our tribe increase in the coming years! DOÑA ELENA!!!

HERBED STUFFED ROAST CHICKEN

Ingredients:
for the chicken preparation: 
Dona Elena Pure Olive Oil (greasing)
1 pc.      Whole chicken (about 1.5-2k)
1 pc        lemon, quartered
1 tbsp     Dona Elena Pure Olive Oil
to taset salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder

For stuffing:
2 tbsp.      butter
1 tbsp       Dona Elena Pure Olive Oil
1 pc          white onion, chopped
2 pcs        celery stalks, chopped
1 1/4 cup  Good Life Bread Cubes
2 tsp         mixed dried herbs (thyme, parsley, sage, tarragon)
                     fresh herbs are okey, too
1 pc         egg, beaten
to taste     salt and pepper

for the gravy:
2 tbsp      butter
2 tbsp      flour
1/4 cup    Dona Elena White wine
3/4 cup    chicken stock/drippings from the chicken

Procedure:
A.  1.  Preheat oven to 400F. Lightly grease an oven proof dish with olive oil or butter.
      2.  In a saute pan, heat the butter and oil and saute the onions and celery until softened.
      3.  Transfer to a bowl and add in the breadcrumbs, herbs, egg and salt and pepper.  Mix well and        
               make sure the crumbs are coated with herbs. Let cool.
B.  1.  Rinse the chicken inside and out. Using a paper towel, pat dry the inside of the chicken.
      2.  Coat the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, paprika and garlic powder.
      3.  Put the stuffing inside the chicken then push the lemon quarters inside. Tie the legs of the chicken with
            a kitchen string.
      4.  Place the chicken breast side down, on a roasting tin with a rack. Pour about 1 cup of water under the             rack and roast for thirty minutes.
     5.  Remove the chicken from the oven and gently turn the chicken so the breast is facing up.
     6.  Reduce temperature to 300F and roast the chicken for 1 1/2 hours, basting every 20 minutes with
          the juices from the tin.
     7.  Remove chicken from oven and cover with foil and let stand for about 10 minutes.
     8.  In a saucepan, heat the butter and then add the flour. Gradually stir in the drippings of the
          roast chicken.  Add the wine then bring to a boil, stirring until it becomes smooth and thick.
     9.  Season with salt and pepper.
    10.  Serve chicken with lemon wedges.


Healthy note:  For a lower fat content, you may reduce butter to half; and replace whole egg with two pieces egg whites.


HAMON AND QUESO DE BOLA PASTA

Ingredients:
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp Dona Elena Pure Olive Oil
1 head garlic cloves, crushed
2 cups Chinese ham, diced
2 cups all purpose cream
1/2 cup Jolly Green Peas, thawed
to taste salt and freshly ground pepper
1 pack catelli lasagna, cooked
    queso de bola, grated
   parsley, chopped (for garnish)


Procedure:

1.  Heat the butter and olive oil in a pan.
2.  Cook the garlic until soft.
3.  Add the hamon bits and cook about 3 minutes.
4.  Add the cream and let simmer a few minutes until a bit thickened.
5.  Add the green peas.
6.  Season with salt and pepper.
7.  Toss the pasta noodles with sauce.
8.  Top with grated queso de bola and parsley.

67% less bad fat or saturated fat when cooked with ol;ive oil instead of veg. oil.



EASY CHRISTMAS PUDDING

Ingredients:

4 cups       white bread cubes
1/4 cup      raisins
2 cups       apples, peeled and sliced
1 cup        brown sugar
1 3/4 cup  Jolly Cow Fresh Milk
1/4 cup     margarine
1 tbsp       cinnamon
1/2 tbsp    vanilla extract
2 pcs        eggs,  beaten

Procedure:

1.  Preheat oven to 350F.
2.  Grease your baking dish.
3.  In a large bowl, combine the bread, raisins and apples.
4.  Heat a saucepan and combine the 1 cup brown sugar, 1 3/4 cup milk and 1/4 cup margarine.
     Cookuntil margarine is melted then pour over the bread mixture.
5.  In a separate bowl, whisk together the cinnamon, 1/2 t vailla and eggs.
6.  Place the bread mixture in teh greased baking dish then pour the egg mixture
     on the bread.
7.  Bake for 40-50 minutes or until the center is set and the applaes are tender.
8.  In a saucepan, mix together the 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup milk and 1/2 cup
      margarine and bring to a boil.
 9.  Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.
10.  Serve the vanilla sauce over the bread pudding.

Healthy note: For a lower fat content, you may reduce margarine by 1/4 cup to make it just 1/2 cup and replace it with butter. 

November 27, 2010
Living Well, Podium
Mandaluyong City

NATURTEQ'S NARRA FOOD SUPPLEMENT

NARRA, NATURE'S MIRACLE FOOD SUPPLEMENT

The majestic narra (Pterocarpus indicus, Willd.), the Philippines’ national tree, is known for its hardwood, which is termite resistant, and its rose scent. But it has many uses---the tree itseld is used as furniture, the leaves and flowers, from shampoos to wax cleaning agents to medicines. But the healing properties of narra has been known for centuries. In the 16^th & 17^th century Europe, it was used as diuretic and folk medicine to combat tumors. Other folk medicine uses include bladder ailments, diarrhea, headache, stones, sores and dropsy. Boiling of narra was also done to create a gargle for sore throats, mouthwash for toothaches and astrigent. 

In 1991, narra as a folk medicine was revolutionized by a Filipino Air Force reserve and airline Captain Virgilio V. Ecarma, when he accidentally re-discovered narra's curative properties on his neighbor's arthritis. The inventor proceeded to do intensive research on the medicinal properties of narra and further funded scientific validation studies, proving that narra as a safe medicinal plant that can boost one's immune system and optimize the ability to naturally heal oneself. 

Clinical studies also conducted by Dr. Chuchi Quijano at Mactan, Cebu showed that the Philippine narra has the ability to lower the blood sugar level of diabetes mellitus patients, alleviates the inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis sufferers and patients with urinary stones had their stones washed away with their urine. 

In our present day, the countless health benefits of narra continue to be discovered. And this miracle food supplement  is now available at Naturteq.

Naturteq Direct, Inc. recently introduced to the media one of its front line products the Natursentials Rosewood (Narra Bark & Wood Food Supplement), the first and only immune-boosting food supplement that allows your body to heal itself naturally, allowing it to be in its optimum state, thereby preventing diseases from entering the body. It takes care of the ailment while protecting what is healthy, thus, it is called the “intelligent” food supplement.

 “Narra is known to be a very effective antioxidant, particularly a blood purifier,” says Dr. Sonny A. Viloria, General Practitioner and Natural Therapist, and one of the pioneers and strong supporter of the “Natural Medicine” practice in the Philippines. “It is good for those with conditions of hormonal imbalance, and prostrate problems. It also helps lose weight,” he adds. Dr. Viloria contiues to help a lot of patients, with testimonies mostly for diabetes cases, lung and breast cancers, too. He stresses, however, that the intake of narra does not replace the intake of regular prescribed medication, it acts more as an immune booster, enhancing what your body naturally has.

And why does narra have such powerful therapeutic properties? Because phytochemicals found to be part of its components include isoflavones which help lower the risk of diseases by fighting them on several fronts, and polyphenolics which are believed to have anti-oxidant properties and may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer. 


Naturteq’s Rosewood trees are nurtured in an organic environment, free of pesticides. The young branches are harvested and processed in a chemical-free, hygienic facility monitored by world-class standards. The end result is an effective product that leverages the purity and healing powers of the Rosewood tree, no additives and no preservatives.
 

And with the Christmas rush just around the corner, what perfect time for you and your family to start developing your own healthy lifestyles, make Natursentials Rosewood a part of it. Avail of the benefits of this immune booster food supplement only at Naturteq Direct, Inc. Natursentials Rosewood (Narra Bark and Wood Food Supplement), available in tea (15tea bags/box) and capsule (30 caps/box) form, has a patented formula and has no artificial colors, no sugar, no lactose, no milk, no salt, no gluten and no caffeine. 
For more information, visit their website at www.naturteq.com or email at inquiry@naturteq.com.

Natursentials Rosewood capsules and Rosewood tea

A CHRISTMAS START WITH NATURTEQ DIRECT 

Naturteq Direct, Inc. (NDI), a new venture with Philippine Prudential Life Company (PPLIC), was established in the first quarter of 2010, to be the leading Filipino-owned global direct selling company that offers high quality nutritional and beauty products and unparalleled compensation plan for its distributors.

Your passion and effort, together with the values of the company will create new opportunity for you and others to live a better life.

Discovering Naturteq Direct, Inc. this holiday season is just the perfect time for you towards unparalleled opportunities, healthwise and financially, too. Selling NDI products can earn you income, the compensation is designed to fit the different types of distributors. Rewards, Recognition and additional perks await performers. Signing up fee is P1,800 and you get FREE products worth the same value. Getting started also entitles you  to a FREE accident insurance coverage worth P50,000 plus P25,000 burial assistance, FREE enrollment to NDI accredited bank for your commission pay out, plus a Starter Kit to guide you in your Naturteq business. This is a good start! Join now. For more details, visit their website at www.naturteq.com or email at inquiry@naturteq.com.

ABOUT NATURTEQ

Naturteq Direct, Inc. is a direct selling company that offers high quality nutritional and beauty products that help its customers enjoy life to the fullest.  Its business model is designed to maximize the earning potential and networking abilities of its distributors.
 
Philippine Prudential Life Insurance Company (PPLIC), established in February 18, 1963 by Don Daniel L. Mercado, Sr. continues to be one of the country’s top insurance companies.  It has unceasingly supported the policies of the Insurance Commission, allowing it to meet the growing needs of Filipinos for life insurances. 

By venturing into a different industry, PPLIC believes that it can provide more lucrative earning opportunities for Filipinos, while continuing to leverage their core competencies in the life insurance business.It is through this belief that Naturteq Direct, Inc. (NDI) was established in the first quarter of 2010.  NDI is positioned to be the leading Filipino-owned global direct selling company through its world class products and unparalleled compensation plan.  The company is backed by a team of industry experts with over forty years combined experience in the direct selling business as well as the expertise of the management of its major stockholder, Philippine Prudential Life Insurance Company (PPLIC).  

THE MEN BEHIND NATURTEQ DIRECT, INC. 

George D. Mercado, President & CEO of Philippine Prudential Life Insurance Company, Inc. 

Mr. Gregorio “George” D. Mercado is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Philippine Prudential Life Insurance Company, Inc. (PPLIC), the leader in innovation and growth in the life insurance industry in the country.  Founded on February 18, 1963 by the late businessman and philanthropist, Daniel L. Mercado, Sr., PPLIC is a reputable 100% Filipino-owned financial services company committed to providing the best financial advice and diversified and affordable products — such as endowment plans, whole life plans, group and permanent plans, healthcare coverage, educational and pension policies and Credit Life Insurance — to its valued clients through its multiple and accessible distribution channels.  Now on its way to celebrating its 48th year of sterling, trustworthy and continuous service, PPLIC continues to serve the best interests of its more than 1.5 Million Policyholders and their families, with over Php 51 Billion Business-In-Force.

Mr. George Mercado first joined PPLIC in 1979 to 1985.  He then worked in various Sales and Marketing positions in US companies from 1985 to 1999.  He rejoined PPLIC in 1999 and became its President and CEO in 2004, taking over from his father, Mr. Daniel M. Mercado, Jr., the son of the Company’s Founder and who now serves as PPLIC’s Chairman. 

Bernie D.Y. Mercado, Naturteq Direct, Inc. GM

 

Mr. Bernardo Y. Mercado (BYM) is the founding general manager of Naturteq Direct, Inc. (NDI), a new venture with Philippine Prudential Life Insurance Company, Inc. (PPLIC) through their President and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Gregorio D. Mercado.  PPLIC is the leader in innovation and growth in the life insurance industry and financial services in the country and it was founded in February 18, 1963 by the late businessman and philanthropist, Daniel L. Mercado, Sr.

BYM started work at NDI in the first quarter of 2010 as a direct selling consultant and fully organized the company by September of the same year. Before joining NDI, BYM was the General Manager of Mary Kay Phils, Inc. for six (6) years.  And in 2007, he was the Chairman of the Direct Selling Association of the Philippines (DSAP). 

BYM first joined the direct selling industry in 1985 and has then held various executive positions at many multinational companies. He worked at Avon as a Branch Manager (Feb 1985-Oct 1992); Sara Lee Direct Selling, VP-Operations (Nov 1992- Aug 1995); Amway, Director for Sales and Marketing (Sept 1996-Dec 1997); and Nu Skin, General Manager (Jan 1998-Feb 2002).  His 20 plus years of experience enriched himself with solid knowledge and leadership that allowed him to grow companies.

And with a team backed by over 40 years of industry experience, Naturteq Direct, Inc. is a sure winner---success to the company and to those whose lives they will touch.

November 23, 2010 Tuesday

11am-2pm

Museum Cafe, Ayala Museum Greenbelt

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Personal:

The emailed invitation was sent by Bheng L., media liaison from the PR office of Ms. Nancy Harel. Rosewood. Narra. What was amusing was that the menu for the said event was also emailed with a note for me to select the soup and main course on or before November 18. Ha ha ha Anyway, I asked Leena, the managing editor of People's Journal if she'd like to come, and she said yes. 

   So we met outside the Museum Cafe, and went inside together. The presentation was already on-going but what we heard  from the speakers were really  interesting. 

   What really interested me was the talk about the health benefits one can get from Rosewood. You see my father is diabetic--- k his elder brothers and sisters and some nieces, too were already victims of the disease. My mother suffers from joint pains and is hypetensive, too. As for me, I am more or less on the healthy side (hence, the unwanted fats), hypertensive.

   We managed to listen to all those wonderful things that Rosewood Food Supplement can do to one's general wellness, in between mouthfuls of the delicious dishes laid in front of us by the waiters, who I suspected were also interested in the presentation. And since NDI is a direct selling venture, I think most of us who attended were given Free Registration as NDI distributors plus the PPLIC Insurance that comes with it. 
    Although, Leena and I were not so lucky to win any of the raffled off Dermteq Skin Care Gift Set, we went home with a Naturteq gift packs composed of Natursentials Rosewood capsules and tea. I was convinced that what I have in my Naturteq pack will work, hence I gave a box of the Rosewood tea to my editor, some tea bags and capsules to our copy boy, whom I know is hypertensive and overweight, while I took home the rest of my Rosewood loot and started my Rosewood tea routine that Tuesday night! After drinking a cup of the brew, I readily fell into a deep sleep, regrettably I missed the 2 TV programs I religiously watch on Tuesday nights. 

   Today, I am into my 3rd tea bag and second capsule (started on it last night). I even asked my 14-year-old-daughter to take 2 capsules this morning because she has this raspy voice and runny nose. I thought that since its an immune-boosting food supplement, taking 2 caps of Rosewood will surely do something to her clogged nostrils. Good start. Washes away toxins in the body?  Our copy boy asked me how much the tea and capsules are. He said that it's really effective gesturing to his stomach. But is he going to buy or just letting me know that he needs more? Hmmmmn. . .

   Leena , on the other hand, gave a box of the Rosewood capsules to her assistant editor Elvie, who has hypertension. I told her that I think its really working, she said she'll ask her husband to start on it. She's been asked about the price also.

   I always believed that you have to try it firsthand before you recommend or sell something to others. That way you can speak from the heart but from all the claims and clinical studies, I think Naturteq Direct is on to a good thing and Natursentials Rosewood will be proven to be the "miracle food supplement".

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JULIUS MAGGI KITCHEN'S November 2010 Offerings

INSPIRING INDONESIA
JMK November 2010
Chef Laica Herrera

NASI GORENG (Fried Rice)

Indonesia's National Dish 

 Indonesia Fried Rice with Vegetables, shrimp, pork and chicken in spicy paste

Ingredients:

2 tbsp. oil                                                                       4 pcs. chicken, bite-size slices

500g cooked rice, stirred with a fork to                           4 pcs. pork, bite-size slices

            separate grains                                                    1 tbsp light soy sauce

2 pcs. eggs, slightly beaten                                               1 tbsp dark soy sauce

3 cloves garlic, crushed                                                    1 tsp sugar

2 tbsp shallots, thinly sliced                                               to taste Maggi Savor-Garlic

2 tsp red chili, crushed                                                      to taste Maggi Magic Sarap

4 pcs prawns                                                                   

Procedure:

1.  Lightly grease a non-stick pan with oil.

2.  Fry the eggs to make an omelette.

3.  Remove omelette from pan and transfer remaining oil in a wok.

4.  Saute shallots, garlic, and chili.

5.  Add prawns, chicken and pork.

6.  Stur-fry until cooked.

7.  Turn the heat up to maximum and add the rice and soy sauces.

8.  Season with sugar, Maggi Savor-Garlic and Maggi Magic Sarap. 

9.  Stir constantly until well-mixed and heated.

10. Usually served with a side dish of satay, fried egg, vegetable pickles and shrimp crackers.

SATE BABI

Traditional Indonesian Pork Sate with Peanut Sauce 

Ingredients:

500g pork loin, 1'' cubed                         1/2 tsp. turmeric powder

1 tbsp Maggi Oyster Sauce                      1/2 tsp curry powder

1 tbsp light soy sauce                                1 tbsp sesame oil

1/2 tsp white pepper                                 1 tsp Maggi Magic Sarap 

1 tbsp sugar                                              8 pcs bamboo sticks

Procedure:

1. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except the pork pieces and bamboo sticks.

2.  Mix well and add in the pork.

3.  Mix thoroughly until well combined.

4.  Marinate for at least an hour.

5.  Skewer about 4-5 pork pieces into one bamboo stick.

6.  Repeat until all pork pieces are skewered.

7.  Grill over medium heat, turning once.

8.  Serve with peanut sauce as an appetizer or with rice as main course. 

SAMBAL KACANG OR PEANUT SAUCE (I prefer this recipe, much easier I think)

Makes about 1 1/2 cups

• Natural peanut butter -- 1 cup
• Water -- 3/4 cup
• Soy sauce -- 2 tablespoons
• Sambal oelek (chile paste) , or minced hot chiles -- 2 teaspoons
• Brown sugar -- 1 tablespoon
• Turmeric -- 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt -- to taste

Method

1. Add all the ingredients to a large bowl and whisk together until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Variations

• Substitute coconut milk for some of the water if you like.
• Add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon shrimp paste.
• Squeeze in the juice of one lemon or two limes if you like. Or add 1 tablespoon tamarind paste.

November 18, Thursday
JMK, Nestle Corp. Center
Powerplant

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November 2010 MOVIE DATE: UNSTOPPABLE

7PM November 9 (Tuesday), Glorietta 4
UNSTOPPABLE Special Screening 

The movie was directed by Tony Scott. With Denzel Washington, Chris Pine, Rosario Dawson, Ethan Suplee, and many more.

Last Sunday, while watching for the nth time the movie Princess Diaries 2, wherein Chris Pine as Nicholas Devereaux gets to fall in love with Anne Hathaway's Princess Mia character, we both wondered what other movies Chris Pine has filmed after Princess Diaries 2. We saw how good he was as Jake Hardin at Just My Luck, but I have yet to see Blind Dating, Smokin' Aces, Bottle Shock, Carriers and Star Trek. Whew!

We really miss Chris Pine. . .

And then there was UNSTOPPABLE. Before going to the screening, I searched about the movie and found out out that Chris Pine is in the cast aside from the inimitable Denzel Washington (Book of Elijah was my latest encounter with him).

The movie is about how a veteran locomotive engineer (Denzel Washington) and a young train conductor (Chris Pine) in a different locomotive chased and prevented an unmanned, half-mile-long freight train carrying combustible liquids and poisonous gas from wiping out a city. Denzel plays Frank Barnes, the veteran railroad engineer with two grown-up daughters, while Chris Pine is Will Colson, a young train conductor, who's currently experiencing a troubled marriage. But towards the end, everything became all right--- the runaway train was stopped, no harm befell the heroes although chris gets injured.

                                                                          ********

According to press, Unstoppable is loosely based on the "Crazy Eights" unmanned train incident in 2001. The train, led by CSX Transportation SD40-2 #8888, left its Walbridge, Ohio rail yard and rumbled on a 66-mile journey through northwest Ohio with no one at the controls, due to the throttle being applied on full instead of a brake. Two of the train's tank cars contained thousands of gallons of molten phenol, a toxic ingredient of paints and dyes harmful when it is inhaled, ingested, or comes into contact with the skin. For two hours, the train traveled along at speeds up to 47 miles per hour until the crew of a second train coupled onto the runaway and slowly applied its brakes. Once #8888 was slowed down to a speed of 11 miles per hour, a CSX employee, trainmaster Jon Hosfeld, ran alongside the train and climbed aboard, shutting down the locomotive. The train was stopped just southeast of Kenton, Ohio.

                                                                 *********

I enjoyed this film immensely ---it was fast paced (not because of the trains) and very realistic. I was somehow gripped with suspense during the train-chasings. The sound effects were just awesome, too. Plus the fact that denzel nor chris does not get killed is a bonus. Thank you Mae, thank you 20th century fox!

MS. PHILIPPINES-EARTH 2010 SEND-OFF PARTY

MS. PHILIPPINES-EARTH 2010 OFF TO VIETNAM

As they celebrate their 10^th anniversary, the international competition Miss Earth left the Philippine shores to Nha Trang, Vietnam, where over 85 delegates converged from all over the world to vie for the title of Miss Earth 2010 and promoted their environmental advocacies in the provinces of Dong Thap, Phan Thiet, Hoi An, Phu Yen and Nha Trang.

 

Carousel Productions invited media friends to a send-off-cum-lunch affair for Miss Philippines-Earth 2010 Kris Psyche Resus held at Villa Immaculada, Intramuros, Manila. Balancing both her duties to the Miss Earth Foundation and Carousel Productions, Ms. Resus has undergone several trainings to fully equip her to be the first Filipina to represent the Philippines for Miss Earth outside of the Philippines. The 23-year-old Filipina hopes to do her country proud and states that she already has several plans to further highlight the foundations campaigns if hailed as the 2nd Filipina to bring home the prestigious Miss Earth crown.

Coronation Night will be held in Vinpearl Resort & Spa Amphitheatre, Nha Trang  Province on December 4, 2010 to be televised live via VTV1 on the same day at 8:00 P.M. and replayed on Star World in 35 countries, and 26 countries also through the Filipino Channel and ABSCBN.

Photo shows the Miss Earth beauties and organizers meeting with the major sponsors of Miss Earth 2010: Nguyen Trong Hien, chairman of Vinpearl Resort, Nha Trang Vietnam; Miss Vietnam 2009; Lorraine Schuck, executive vice president, Carousel Productions, Inc.; Ramon Monzon, president, Carousel Productions, Inc.; Sandra Seifert, Miss Philippines-Earth 2009 and Miss Earth-Air 2009; Nguyen Cong Khe, chairman of Thanh Nien (Media Group Corp.); Larissa Ramos, Miss Earth 2009; Le Xuan Than, vice chairman, People’s Committee of Khan Hoa Province; and Kris Psyche Resus, Miss Philippines-Earth 2010.


Villa Immaculada, Intramuros, Manila
November 4, 2010

SOARING HIGH: JIL'S 32ND ANNIVERSARY October 2010

SOARING HIGH ON THEIR 32ND ANNIVERSARY 

 

Thousands attended the 32nd anniversary celebration of the Jesus Is Lord Church in Luneta Friday evening.

   
Earnest prayers were said during the height of the event in Quirino Grandstand, Luneta, site of the bloody August 23 hostage-taking incident that killed eight Chinese nationals.

  
“Let the curse be broken in our land,” said JIL founder and spiritual director Bro. Eddie Villanueva as he claimed healing and peace for the families of the victims of the said tragedy.

Aside from the Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile, Villanueva was also joined in prayer by other government officials including Congressional Representatives Justin Mark Chipeco of the 2nd District of Laguna, `Rey Umali of the 2nd District of Oriental Mindoro, CIBAC Partylist Representatives Chona Gonzales and Sherwin Tugna, and Kalinga Partylist Representative Abegail Ferriol who read the House Resolution commending JIL for its 32 years of service to the Filipino people. League of Governors of the Philippines president, Oriental Mindoro Gov. Alfonso Umali Jr. and Puerto Princesa Mayor Edward Hagedorn were also present.

   
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) Director General Joel Villanueva and Bocaue Mayor Eduardo Villanueva Jr., sons of Bro. Eddie were also in attendance.

   
Respected heads of different religious organizations also joined in the celebrations including Roman Catholic Bishop Deo Iniguez of the Archdiocese of Caloocan, Bishop Leo Alconga of the International Bible Society, Bishop Dan Balais of Philippines for Jesus Movement, Pastor Ed De Guzman of Intercessors for the Philippines, Pastor Paul Chase of Alabang New Life in Christ, Apostle Renato Carillo of Jesus Our Shield Worldwide Ministries, Pastor Art Ferriol of Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ, Pastor Emilio Henares of River of Life in Bacolod, Pastor Joshua Bontogan of Life Touchers Ministry, Pastor Entoy Sintos of Jesus Miracle Crusade, and Bro. Danny Navales of Ang Dating Daan.

   
Other highlights of the program included the  giving of love gifts to 32 non-JIL churches and pastors from other Christian denominations. The churches and pastors were selected by the ministerial heads in Metro Manila.

   
"Ipanalangin nyo pong higit na marami pang mga simbahan at mga manggagawa ng Diyos ang ating mapagpala,” said Villanueva.

    
The iCare Compassion Ministry of JIL also gave away gift boxes to 3,200 children and grocery items to 3,200 families. They were represented on stage by 32 children and mothers.

  
The selected children and families were from Parola, Capulong, Aroma, Sunod-Apog, Raxabago in Tondo and from various places in Metro Manila including Tambunting, Sampaloc, Baseco, Paco, San Andres, Sta Ana, Leveriza, Malate, Pembo, Mandaluyong, Nueve De Pebrero, San Juan, Taguig-Pateros, Kaunlaran, and Malabon.

The program ended in a parade of flag featuring the 44 countries where JIL churches are currently planted and the 36 countries JIL is set to reach in the next ten years.

   
Today, JIL is in five continents. It has reached 44 countries and has planted churches in 875 cities. It regularly conducts 11,589 worship services worldwide.

  
“This is all for the glory of God,” said Villanueva.  

We went to the event to support Carol, a very good friend from way back.Multitudes of believers. Congratulatory speeches. Songs of Praise, dancing. . .We enjoyed ourselves.

Quirino Grandstand, Luneta
October 29, 2010 
============================================================

The Photo Exhibit: The Tour of Hope and The On-going War Against Cervical Cancer

The invite came riding in a red toy bike.

A master lensman. A noble cause. And hundreds of passionate advocates.  
The exhibit opening was scheduled at 6pm, while the 11am event was just a prelude. Some of the participantsrelived their experiences during the recent Tour of Hope 2010, including Joyette Jopson of Team David's Salon, actress Mymy Davao, and Tristan Cho. Ever the beauty queen, Abbygale Arenas de Leon came in white blouse and white pants, and said her piece. "The message is very clear: cervical cancer is easily preventable, and women do not have to die from it," proclaims Abbygale Arenas, Bravehearts representative and wife of Jun de Leon. "By empowering Filipinas with information about this disease, we look forward to winning the battle versus cervical cancer." This year, they raised nearly one million in pledges and sponsorships to further spread the anti-cervical cancer message across the Philippines. It's amazing how dedicated these women are in their race to fight the deadly CC. This early they are planning for a grander event next year.

Actually, the exhibit was the culmination of the Tour of Hope 2010 360 Degrees: Fighting Cervical Cancer In Full Circle event last March 20-24,  wherein  hundreds of people from different walks of life  traveled a 500-kilometer cycling tour from Manila to Baguio inspired by the same goal, that is basically to raise the public's awareness of cervical cancer,  the second most common female cancer afflicting Filipino women .And everyday, 12 Filipinas die of cervical cancer.  

Famous faces, all of them heroes, at the Tour of Hope 2010 Kick Off

Some of the photos at the TToH 2010 exhibit

or celebrity photographer Jun de Leon, an advocate and staunch supporter of cervical cancer awareness, his camera is his tool in spreading awareness here in the country. With his team,  he joined the 5-day tour to immortalize some of the most winning moments of the event . “Through ‘The Tour of Hope’ exhibit, I want to showcase the passionate fight of these biker heroes in bringing down cervical cancer deaths here in the country.” The visual array of photographs  were featured in a grand exhibit at the lobby of Greenbelt 3 from October 1-6. 

The photographs serve both as testament to the heroism of the "Tour of Hope" bikers---and a challenge as well for more people to defy cervical cancer and live to celebrate the beauty of life.

The Tour of Hope: Awareness is the Key  
The Tour of Hope (TToH), is a non-profit initiative of a group of like-minded people of various
backgrounds, which set-up bicycle tours in order to increase awareness and raise funds for
health prevention and education projects benefiting resource limited communities. TTOH is a
joint project of CIF/CECAP, Bravehearts, GlaxoSmithKline Philippines, and in strategic
partnership with Team David’s Salon, the Philippine’s first all-women multi-sport team,
dedicated in promoting sports and at the same time sharing a passion for health and
wellness.  It has managed to attract people from all walks of lifesince it started in 2008. This
include personalities such as Senator Pia Cayetano and sports polymath Jeena Lopez.  Bravehearts is currently supported by a growing number of women, including prominent
personalities such as Sen. Loren Legarda, Rina Jimenez David, Ellen Tordesillas,
Atty.Gaby Concepcion, Tessa Prieto David, Abbygale Arenas de Leon and Suzi Entrata.

But the good news is ---GlaxoSmithKline has the  cervical cancer vaccine that shows the most promise in defending them from cervical cancer. Its cervical cancer vaccine provides significant protection for women against the  two  most common cancer-causing Human Papillomavirus (HPV) types (HPV types 16 and 18) for at least seven, the longest duration of protection reported to date. Modeling studies also demonstrate that it may  provide protection for 20-50 years.

The GSK’s cervical cancer vaccine has also shown efficacy against 12 other cancer-causing HPV types beyond HPV 16 and 18, which includes HPV strain 45 – another strain which prevalently causes cervical cancer among Filipinas. Designed to last for both young and mature women, females from 10 years old onwards can be vaccinated using GSK’s cervical cancer vaccine.

Greenbelt 3 Lobby, Makati City
October 1, 2010, Greenbelt 3

**When I learned about the Tour of Hope in a press con I attended and its aim to educate the Filipinas about the perils of cervical cancer early this year, it was really my fervent wish that I could go with the tour. But much to my regret and frustration, I never did learn how to ride a bike (oh, I know how to ride the three-wheeled ones and the stationery exercise bike I have at home, but what good would it do on a tour like this?) What I can do is make sure that this piece of article gets published and read by everybody. And maybe there is still hope for me with the bike, who knows.  Anyway, age is just a number, right?  

TToH 2009: Bikers' Sky

The road may be rough and arduous, but as long as there are people who care, more and more Filipinas will live free from the disease.