Converse Ushers In New Era With Ground-Breaking Chuck Taylor All Star II

CONVERSE Inc. debuts the all new Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II, a contemporary adaptation of the exemplary Chuck Taylor All Star silhouette, for the first time overflowing with innovative Nike Lunarlon technology to support the always-on creative lifestyle. The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II is ready for more, boasting the most recognizable exterior attributes of the original Chuck Taylor All Star. Details include the unique white foxing, rubber toe-cap and statement All Star patch, while dialing up consumer-led features and benefits to deliver a comfortable and versatile premium sneaker for Chuck Taylor lovers everywhere.

“The Chuck Taylor All Star is one of the most legendary and iconic sneakers of all time,” said Jim Calhoun, Converse President and CEO. “The launch of Chuck II is a ground-breaking moment for Converse as we continue to move the brand forward through creativity and innovation, ushering in not just a new sneaker, but a completely new way of thinking.”

Since its debut in 1917, the Chuck Taylor All Star has become one of the world’s most celebrated sneakers, with fans, artists and musicians adopting the brand as a badge of creativity and self-expression. In creating the Chuck II, Converse obsessed over creative spirits around the world joining them on tour, in concert halls and art studios, on sidewalks and at all-night parties, and realized they wanted more. The Chuck Taylor All Star II is designed to meet the demands of the creative lifestyle and is built for the next generation of self-expression. Now, this beloved classic receives an innovative refresh, with product enhancements that stay true to the time-honored aesthetic while also providing modern comfort solutions in a premium execution.

“The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II is a sneaker that started with one simple notion: obsession,” said Richard Copcutt, VicePresident/General Manager of Converse All Star. “We listened and took it to heart that people love their Chucks and want sneakers that are built to enable them to do more. The Chuck II is the full expression of this consumer obsession, staying true to the DNA of the original.”

The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II delivers:

Innovative features

-       Nike Lunarlonsockliner for superior full foot cushioning and arch support

-        Foam padded collar and non-slip gusseted tongue for 360-degree comfort

-        A perforated micro suede liner, for breathability during extended periods of wear.

Premium details

Constructed from durable premiumcanvas, the exterior of the Chuck Taylor All Star II elevates the sneaker’s most recognizable features with premium details including:

-       A fully embroidered All Star patch

-       On-trend high foxing

-       Monochrome matte eyelet

The new Fall 2015 Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II sneaker makes its debut on Tuesday, July 28, for a suggested retail price of Php 3,990 for ox and hi-top at Converse retail stores, select retailers and online at Converse.com.ph, in the following colors: Black, White, Red and Blue.  

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Zsa Zsa Padilla: The Philippines’ Divine Diva on The Morgan Show

Zsa Zsa Padilla just celebrated 32 years in the Philippine music scene but she’s never shown any signs of stopping. She’s in full swing. In an interview that I had with her during the press conference for her latest album, “Beginnings”, Zsa Zsa revealed the state of her heart, her return to the concert scene and her general plans for her future in the world of Philippine entertainment.

Her humble beginnings

Zsa Zsa Padilla began her musical career as a member of the band “Hotdog” in the mid-1970’s. In 1983, (when I was born) she went solo and released her first album which was followed by a very successful major concert a year after. Fast forward to the present, Zsa Zsa remains to be one of the Philippine’s most successful singers who has more than 10 albums to her name with her 1998 record, “Zsa Zsa”, earning her a quadruple album platinum award.

One of the few singers in the Philippines who have a coveted honorific title, Zsa Zsa is called as the Divine Diva because of her extremely divine voice wrapped in velvet and distinguished career in singing. Martin Nievera gave her that title during their concert DIVINE AND MADNESS. Though she’s known for hitting high notes and for having that unique and powerful vocal timbre while singing ballads, she’s also comfortable with belting broadway hits, pop, new wave, rhythm and blues, rock and other musical genres. The only thing she can’t do is rap. 

Zsa Zsa is not only a renowned singer, but also an amazing and a respected actress who starred in various Movies, TV shows and Teleseryes. She bagged numerous awards for her acting like being the Best Actress for “Batang PX” in 1996 and “Mano Po 4: Ako Legal Wife” in 2006 and Best Supporting Actress for “Mano Po 6: A Mother’s Love” in 2009.

Timeless Beauty

At 51, Zsa Zsa is the epitome of timeless beauty. She never seems to age and just keeps looking younger and more beautiful every day. This is basically due to a lot of effort and not just because of ‘Belo’. She keeps herself fit and healthy. Zsa Zsa not only lives a healthy lifestyle and goes to the gym for 2 hours MWF and TTH she does PILATES and attends Zumba classes.

Zsa Zsa goes on a pescetarian diet and she promised herself to be committed to wellness after experiencing a kidney cancer scare and going through a surgery. She avoids dairy products, coffee and crackers. 


On Letting Go and Finding New Love

Zsa Zsa revealed that when she lost her long-time partner of 23 years, the comedy king Dolphy, she went through a bout of depression and lost almost 40 lbs in the process. Looking back to the time when the pain of losing, Zsa Zsa recalls that she always cried during that time. “Every day I cry. I have to cry every day just so I can get by. I find that if I cry in the morning and talk to him, it’s healthier than having to sleep with a heavy heart.” She couldn’t even sing well because every words coming out of her mouth makes her emotional.

Years after losing the comedy king, Zsa Zsa opened her heart to love once again. She is now with Conrad Onglao, an A-list architect who is known for designing the business projects of the Ayalas, Zobels and Concepcions to name a few. Zsa Zsa didn’t know about her boyfriend’s credentials until she searched him on google prior to their blind date. 

The megastar Sharon Cuneta-Pangilinan, played cupid and set their blind date. At that time, Zsa Zsa has just finished storing Dolphy’s stuff and has been crying and having an emotional whirlwind for two days. Meanwhile, Onglao was designing the house of the megastar who gave Zsa Zsa’s number to Onglao. After texting each other, the two agreed to have dinner and the rest is happily ever after. 

A Return to the Concert Scene

Zsa Zsa returns once again to the concert scene this July 31, Friday at 8pm at Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resorts World Manila. This is a repeat concert entitled “Beginnings” with her long-time friend, The Concert King Mr. Martin Nievera and her daughter Karylle. 

“Beginnings” is also the title of her latest released album under Polyeast Records Label.  “Just a Love Song” is the carrier single that has been playing on radio for few weeks now. The album includes other covers from Chicago, Carpenters and Bee Gees. The 10 tracks included in ‘Beginnings’ are old-time favorites of Zsa Zsa from the 70’s and 80’s. 

Now that Zsa Zsa Padilla has found a new love and has constantly received both support and inspiration from her daughters Karylle, Zia and Nichole, she is bound once again to produce chart-topping singles and albums. 

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Converse Updates its All Star Chuck Taylor! Meet CHUCK II

For the first time in almost 100 years, CONVERSE is updating their classic Chuck Taylor All Star sneaker to the CHUCK II, a more premium pair of kicks that will make you become more obsessive to its comfort. 

The update is made of durable tencel premium canvas replacing the cotton material. The All Star II uses a Nike Lunarlon footbed for shock absorption and has a foam padding inside the ankle. It also has a non-slip padded tongues and perforated micro-suede liners along the interior sides for moisture-wicking breathability.

For the outside appearance, the rubber toe cap remains and the iconic all star circle patch is now embroidered on. The eyelets on the other hand have more depth and dimension and are coloured to the match shoe with a slightly higher sole than the traditional Chucks.

Chuck II is now available for sale at $70-$75 in white, black, red and blue colors. 

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Habitat for Humanity Philippines Turns Over New Multipurpose Centers to Maguindanaons

At General Santos City earlier, the residents of 3 municipalities in Maguindanao received brand new multipurpose centers from Habitat for Humanity Philippines and the government of South Korea.

Towns of Raja Buayan, Upi and South Upi will benefit from these new community centers funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency-Korean Exchange Bank (KOICA-KEB).

Charlie Ayco, CEO and Managing Director of Habitat for Humanity Philippines said on the presscon that they are thankful to KOICA-KEB for partnering with them in helping Maguindanaon families. He also mentioned that Habitat is committed to providing Filipinos a decent place to live, and this includes giving them facilities that would help spur community development.

By providing facilities in these areas, Habitat aims to empower local communities in conducting community-led development activities, private sector-led outreach and other development initiatives. The multi-purpose centers can also be used as meeting sites, training centers, classrooms and even as emergency evacuation unit. 

In the Philippines, the province of Maguindanao has one of the highest numbers of families living in poverty, with an incidence rate of 62%. The province also suffers from armed conflict between government and rebel forces.

Aside from building multipurpose centers, Habitat for Humanity Philippines will also be initiating capacity-building activities and training to help the communities become sustainable.

Multipurpose centers are regarded as a solid asset for a community especially those situated in rural areas. 

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Marco Gumabao on The Morgan Show

I got the chance to interview Marco Gumabao at WhistleStop Restaurant in ABS-CBN last week and I’ve learned a lot of things about him that is worth sharing.

Looks and Brains

Marco Imperial Gumabao is the son of actor Dennis Roldan and the brother of La Salle’s spiker, Michelle Gumabao. Marco may be more known for his handsome looks and for being the main heartthrob in “Luv U” but what people don’t know is that he takes his education and acting seriously. He went to Ateneo in High School and is currently taking up Psychology at La Salle. 

According to him, he does find it challenging to balance and manage his studies, showbiz commitments and taping. However, amidst all the fame and busy schedule he still wants to continue and finish his studies. “I never thought of quitting my studies,” he said. While he gets a lot of attention and popularity from the public, he’s thankful that he is not getting the same attention that he gets outside when he’s in school. He’s happy that he is still treated like an ordinary student in La Salle so it’s much easier for him to just focus on his studies whenever he’s in school.

About the Real Marco

Marco, (who happens to be a caring, loyal and thoughtful kind of guy) is currently single for few years now. He is okay with dating a fan as long as the girl has a great personality and he could feel that they could jive together. He loves collecting shoes and likes listening to worship songs. Marco also admitted that he feels the sexiest whenever he works out.

Following his father’s footsteps in showbiz

Marco’s star is shining brighter each day in the showbiz world. He was first introduced as a Kampamilya star in the teen-oriented show “Luv U”. Despite being a neophyte in showbizness as compared to the other casts who were once child stars from Goin’ Bulilit, Marco surprisingly stepped up in his game and worked twice as hard as the others just so he can deliver his best for the show. 

When asked how he had managed to easily blend with the rest of the more experienced child stars, he said that he was really pressured to give his best. He went through workshops to improve his acting skills and he bonded with the cast as they taught and helped him to become more familiar with the feel of the show. 

Marco has also appeared in many other shows like “Kailangan ko’y Ikaw” and had numerous guestings on “Ipaglaban Mo” and “Maalaala Mo Kaya”. He also starred alongside Kathniel in “She’s Dating the Gangster” and was commended by direk Cathy for his stellar performance in the said movie, as well as for his hard work and good attitude while on set. Direk Cathy was so impressed with him that he was casted in “Forevermore” without even auditioning for it. His latest project was working alongside Liza Soberano in the movie “Just the Way You Are” which was just shown 2 weeks ago. 

Despite all the fame and his steady rise to the top, Marco doesn’t forget to keep his feet on the ground. He is very grateful for all the opportunities that were given to him. He hopes for more successful shows that will leave a good impression to his audience. He also wants to try new genre; he said that he is open to anything but he would love to try action or being the villain for a change. He wants people to know that he is working hard on becoming even better when it comes to acting. He takes every role seriously.

Family is everything

When asked about what he considers as his most treasured possession, Marco said that his family is everything. Despite the trials that their family now faces with his father currently incarcerated for kidnapping charges, Marco said that he will forever support and love his father. He visits and talks to him often because he grew up being close with his father, being the only son in the family.

Despite all of these, Marco remains positive. He said that his father has taught him to always thank the Lord for all the blessings and talent that he has been given so he’s focusing all his thoughts on that.

Hobbies and Interests

Aside from acting, Marco is also good in singing and dancing. But what he really loves doing when not taping or having showbiz commitments is playing basketball. He dreams of becoming a professional basketball player and he would have been one if he was not a celebrity. Indeed sports is a favorite pastime in their family as his sister Michelle has become one of the most successful volleyball player in the country. At times, Marco tours the country with other celebrity stars to play basketball with different school varsities. 

Marco also loves hanging out with his showbiz friends when not at work. He has developed close friendships with his co-stars in “Luv U” - CJ Navato and Igiboy Flores. He also hangs out with Daniel Padilla and Enrique Gil at times.

When his busy schedule would allow it, Marco is usually in the gym and working out to have a better physique. Who knows we might see him on the next Cosmo Bash. 

From a boy next door to becoming Philippine’s next heartthrob! Marco Gumabao is going to be one of the hottest men in this country. Get to know him more on this exclusive interview on The Morgan Show! 

P.S.  We couldn't find a better place to have the interview that's why the background is a little noisy and lighting wasn't that good. Nevertheless you would still love him even more after watching the interview. 

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PAL offers 35% off on flights to and from Manila

Get as much as 35% off on flights to and from Singapore, Bangkok, Bali, Jakarta, Hong Kong, Macau, Beijing and Guangzhou when you book a Philippine Airlines ticket from July 11 to July 12, 2015. Travel period is from July 13 to August 15, 2015.

You can also Enjoy free baggage allowance, on board meals, and warm caring service that is distinctly Filipino with every ticket you purchase!

FARE CONDITIONS: Fare is equal to base fare + government taxes & fees + terminal fee + ticketing service fee. Fares are subject to change due to currency conversion rate. Fare is non-refundable for totally unused and partially used tickets. Change fee is USD100 for outbound Manila flights. Change fee is HKD550 for Hong Kong, MOP550 for Macau, SGD75 for Singapore, THB 2500 for Bangkok, USD100 for Jakarta and Bali, and CNY640 for Beijing and Guangzhou. No-Show fee is USD75. Ticket is non-transferable. Ticketing Service Fee is not applicable for web purchase. PAL will collect No-Show fee unless booking is cancelled 24 hours before departure date. Infant fare is 10% of adult fare. Child fare is 75% of adult fare. Quoted fares are rounded off to the nearest whole number. Other conditions apply based on existing fare basis of the ticket. 

BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE: Fare is inclusive of 7-kg handcarried baggage. Free baggage allowance is 30kg for Singapore and Bangkok. Free baggage allowance is 20kg for Bali, Jakarta, Hong Kong, Macau, Beijing, Guangzhou. There may be additional fees for your checked baggage in excess of your free baggage allowance. 

SALES CHANNEL: Promo is for Philippine Airlines Web and Mobile site only (philippineairlines.com). If customer is using a mobile device, only MasterCard card is accepted as form of payment. No Promo Code needed.

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Juan Karlos Labajo - The Charming Young Crooner

From being a regular kid in Cebu to a teenage sensation, Juan Karlos Labajo is now in full swing.  A few days before the launching of his new album, self-titled “JK”, I got the chance to interview him for the 3rd Season of The Morgan Show. The interview had been rescheduled many times because of his mall shows and thrice a week taping for Pangako Sayo, his newest TV Project. 

Today, July 10, as I post this article, is the date that you have all been waiting for! The release of his first solo album under MCA Music. With 6 songs; PARA SA YO, THIS GRAVITY, THIS SONG IS FOR YOU, SUMMER TIME LOVE, MAYBE LOVE, DI KA MAN LANG NAGPAALAM (plus a band version of PARA SA YO and an acoustic version of This Gravity) the album is now available in all record bars and music stores. 

Before The Voice Kids

I’m sure most of you had watched his life story on MMK where we discovered more of him than just his mestizo looks and happy-go-lucky disposition in life. 

At the age of 14, JK has already experienced a lot of things that most people twice or thrice his age haven’t experienced yet. His mother passed away just before he made it to The Voice Kids Blinds.  He never met his German father nor had any connections with him upto now. He grew up in Cebu city under the care of his maternal grandmother, and now staying in Manila under the care of his uncle to further pursue his career in music and TV.

JK shared that back in Cebu, people had always mistaken him to be rich and spoiled because of his looks, but that was never the case. He admitted that his family was actually struggling from debt. JK also shared that he was a victim of bullying in the past. He said that he would often go home with bruises and scratches that he got from his bullies in school. But even so, he would still thank his bullies, bashers and haters because according to him, those people had become his motivation to work harder.

Despite all of these experiences, JK still manages to have a positive outlook in life. When asked what his motto is, he said: “You only live once in this world so live life with happiness.” And indeed, JK is doing just that, living his life to the fullest with gladness in his heart.

New Opportunities and Blessings

JK considers his experience with The Voice Kids as the door for his newfound opportunities and many blessings. Other than the new album, JK will also have a repeat concert at the Music Museum soon. He will also be doing a series of mall shows all over the country to promote his self-titled album. JK is one of the few artists who can reach a Sold Out and Double Sold Out status in a given mall show. 

His first single “Para Sa’yo” has become #1 song in some radio stations after a week of its launch and is still continuously hitting the airwaves. JK is pretty amazed with all the love and support he is getting. His first solo concert at Teatrino Promenade was a great success with crowd screaming their hearts for him. He has multiple fans club and chapters all over the world and in different cities in the Philippines. 

The charm and talent of JK don’t just end in singing. Surprisingly, he’s good with acting too. After The Voice Kids, he was seen immediately as a new child actor in MMK, Ipaglaban Mo and Hawak Kamay. Now he is currently seen every night on “Pangako Sayo”. He is trending on twitter every day because of his chummy and cute performance. He never really had an acting workshop like other child stars but is still getting a lot of good reviews and feedback. Take note, he delivers his lines with 1-2 takes only. 

His success in both music and acting is really amazing and awe-inspiring. Both Star Magic and MCA Music never thought he could be this strong and influential at a very young age. And That is more than an achievement.

Humble and down to earth

Despite his many achievements and popularity nowadays, one can still find JK as a humble and down to earth person. Like many regular kid, he is also engaged in other fun activities when not singing or acting. He likes surfing, biking, watching movies and eating at his favorite resto in Morato. He also collects all the gifts he received from his fans and put them all in a big cabinet. 

I already heard so many good words about him and I wanted to know if all of those were true.

And yes they are true! He creates good relationship with people he meets and maintains good rapport with his fan base. This boy can certainly go places and will become the next superstar! Not only because of his looks and talents but because of the big heart he has. Such a sweet and charming little boy who has started making teenagers fall in love with him. JK is undeniably witty, smart, attentive and clingy. He’s not aware that he has an incredible fandom and his stardom for sure will become even bigger and brighter.

With looks like that of a matinee idol, smooth voice like that of Michael Buble and an attitude of a real and humble star, Juan Karlos is certainly Philippines Young Charming Crooner.

Here is the full interview of Juan Karlos on The Morgan Show.  I initially used his song PARA SAYO as the background music, but Youtube asked me to take it down because of copyright issue! So I'm using an instrumental version of his fave song Photographs by Ed Sheeran. 

You’ll love him even more after watching this video.  Also we both have a surprise for all of you guys towards the end of the interview! There is an uncut version and some revelations you wouldn’t want to miss that I will share in the next few days! Enjoy and please share leave your comments!

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JUAN KARLOS LABAJO releases first solo album

JK is a ball of energy with the charm that can win anyone over in an instant. Juan Karlos Labajo became an instant favorite among The Voice of the Philippines Kids roster because of his looks, smooth voice, sense of humor and undeniable wit. Coach Bamboo made a right choice turning for this 14-year old Cebuano.

JK has a taste in music not all kids his age appreciate. He’s into jazz and more mellow genres that most adults listen to. Even his singing has a distinct style that his classmates and teachers immediately noticed. After performing for a number of school programs, his family knew he would make it big. It was his mom’s wish for JK to join The Voice Kids, but she has passed away before she even got the chance to watch him compete. This made JK more determined to get to the final, with his grandmother and uncle by his side. Even if the competition was tough, he knew that his mom was guiding him every single moment. JK's favorite song now is Photographs by Ed Sheeran. 

His 3rd place finish opened lots of doors for Juan Karlos – an album with MCA Music, tours, concerts, and an acting stint on television 'Ipaglaban Mo, MMK, Hawak Kamay and Pangako Sayo. The endless possibilities just intensified JK’s dreams to win awards for music and movies, start a modeling career, and of course bag an international record deal; not just for himself, but to help reach out to more people in need, “Dream ko po na makatulong sa mga cancer patients at pumunta sa home for the aged. Gusto ko na mapasaya sila sa aking talento at mag-share po ako ng aking mga blessings sa kanila.” In one of our dinners, he mentioned he went all by himself to Childhaus and visited a cancer kid who has always wanted to meet him ever since he joined The Voice Kids. That was a humbling experience for JK to be able to inspire people and touch their lives by his music.

“Hindi po maipaliwanag ang happiness,” JK has no words to describe this big adventure. He’s just extremely grateful and remembers one of the most important advice Coach Bamboo has given him, “…ang pagiging humble po at pagiging masunurin sa payo,” He’s sure that his mother is proud of what he has achieved so far. At his age, he has everything a young boy could ever ask for. But aside from the material wishes and the accolades, he has one big wish, “Sana may visiting hours ang heaven para pwede ako bumisita sa kanya at ma-hug at ma-kiss ko siya tapos sasabihin ko ‘I love you’.” Sweet. See, you’ll fall in love with Juan Karlos in a heartbeat especially now that his first ever solo album will be available this July 10 in all record bars and music stores nationwide. The album retails at P280 and will have a launch at SM Valenzuela on 11th of July.

Here is the complete tracklist of the album:

01. PARA SA YO 
02. THIS GRAVITY 
03. THIS SONG IS FOR YOU  
04. SUMMER TIME LOVE 
05. MAYBE LOVE 
06. DI KA MAN LANG NAGPAALAM
07.  PARA SA YO - BAND VERSION
08. THIS GRAVITY - ACOUSTIC VERSION

Note: Info sheet was provided by MCA Music with some notes I added. Also, Come back this weekend for another article about Juan Karlos Labajo 'JK" with the link to the full 30-minute exclusive sit-down video interview.

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Wireless Link attends IDAS training

To further enhance its technical competency for radio communication industry, Wireless Link Technologies, Inc. once again underwent a technical training at Wakayama Icom Inc. in Wakayama, Japan last June 15 – 19, 2015.

Wireless Link, authorized distributor of Icom in the Philippines, joined other distributors from other Asian countries in this five-day seminar about Icom Digital Advanced System (IDAS). IDAS offers a complete system of handheld radios, mobile radios, repeaters, network interface / trunking controller, remote communicator, system manager software and various accessories. IDAS is a complete solution that system owners or operators can grow into as their time and budget allows. 

The seminar consists of three courses. Single-site conventional system, which enables you to communicate in a wider area than Peer-to-Peer communication was tackled on the first day. Multi-site Conventional system followed on the next day. Multi-site conventional system has a centralized IP network from which one can connect and communicate from different sites and respond like a single site. It can provide long distance communication from different radios connected to the IP network. Single site trunking, the last IDAS course, provides an affordable multi-channel digital radio system. It can create a selective or group call and short data messages over the trunking system. 

A brief introduction for Marine Radar and Mobile HF Transceiver was also discussed on the last two days of the training. Marine Radar provides a clear target discrimination, which can be seen on the radar screen. The marine radar would help prevent collision and accidents while at sea.

This technology would help companies who provide communication links to give a higher quality communication with less problems and issues. In turn, it would be a big help for the users to have better quality and hassle-free communication and a safer road to face.

Engr. Ralph Waldy J. Soguilon, General Manager of Wireless Link Technologies, Inc., together with Engr. Marc Erwin D. Regalado, GenSan Branch Head, Engr. Veejay L. Espuerta, GenSan Branch Technical Head and Mr. Brian Lualhati, Radio Communication Division Technical Support, attended this training which was also highlighted with a factory tour at Wakayama and a visit to Icom Head Office in Osaka.

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Enjoy Facebook Anytime Anywhere with Sun Cellular

You can now enjoy free access to Facebook anytime and anywhere on your mobile phone without worrying about data charges or having to scan free WiFi hotspots around your neighborhood.

Now, Sun offers free access to Facebook to prepaid and postpaid subscribers, allowing you to enjoy Facebook all-day, the practical way.

Available to all subscribers nationwide, Sun’s free Facebook offer allows you to stay in touch with family and friends wherever you are, so you don’t need to wait to come across the next Free WiFi hotspot before you could connect with your friends or stay abreast with the latest updates on Facebook.

Sun’s latest offer comes on the heels of its insightful ‘Choose Better' campaign, which encourages mobile phone users to examine their choices and make sure they are getting the most value out of their hard-earned money.  

“Sun gives you the best-value for money options with its wide range of feature-packed plans and promos,” said Sun Vice President Joel Lumanlan.  And now, with this offer, Sun strengthens its line-up of already compelling services so that all your communication needs are covered – from calls, texts, mobile Internet and this time staying in touch with your family and friends on Facebook.”

Even better, you can now take full control your Facebook experience with Sun, just by using a simple switch that appears on the upper right corner of your screen every time you log in to the site. 

By simply turning the switch on, you will be able to safely post status updates, comment on your friends’ posts, discuss ideas in your groups and even send chat messages to friends – all without incurring data charges.

Moreover, you will be notified promptly whenever you access features or websites that are not part of the offer.

“Now, you simply have full control of precisely when you want to enjoy Facebook activities for free on your Sun phone. There is no more reason to fear unwanted data charges; you can just stay connected wherever you go,” explained Lumanlan.

If you want to use the full version of Facebook, you only have to turn it off, so you would be able to continue viewing images, videos, and other content on your News Feed through the affordable Facebook promos by Sun.

Sun’s free access to Facebook experience works on all data-capable phones, including smartphones and basic phones. Simply update your Facebook app or visit the Facebook website (m.facebook.com) on your mobile browser. Smart and Talk ‘N Text subscribers may also enjoy the same Free FB experience on their phones.

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Juan Karlos on The Morgan Show

Here is a sneak peek of Juan Karlos JK's guesting on The Morgan Show! Please come back for the full 30 minutes exclusive interview! #JuanKarlosOnTheMorganShow #JKOnTheMorganShow

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U.S. Supreme Court Nationalizes Same-Sex Marriage Equality

It was just a few days ago that the decision was handed down by Justice Kennedy of United States Supreme Court to legalize same-sex marriage in all 50 states. The Supreme Court justices held a decision according to the fourteenth amendment that the states had to recognize same-sex unions and that everyone, regardless of gender and sexual preferences had a right to marry as long as their intent was lawful.

In the flurry of the moment, cheers rang out and rainbow flags were flying, and still are, in support of the decision. In fact, even the White House, for the first time in history, lit up rainbow style on June 26, 2015 to openly commemorate this momentous and widely controversial decision to show their support as well.

The right-wing conservatives are still displeased with the topic at hand, but with the Supreme Court’s ruling there seems little they can do at this point. Rumors have flown with some who hold conservative views calling for impeachment of the justices who supported the overall favorable decision. However, I wouldn’t worry about that anytime soon. There has only ever been one such case of a Supreme Court justice being impeached, and the justice was later acquitted of the offense. With that said, it seems highly unlikely that any impeachment, if it were taken literally and actually moved forward, would truly gain any momentum in the end.

While the majority of the justices agrees on the decision to proceed with same-sex marriage equality across the board, there were a few with dissenting opinions. Such was the case with Justice Thompson, who expressed his concerns over the matter, stating that the decision on same-sex marriage should have been left to the states and not to the Supreme Court as the U.S. Constitution is a constitution of government law and leaves moral issues to the states for decision. He also expressed concerns for the decision made by his colleagues, suggesting that any decision held by the nation’s highest court should hold only to the governing laws regardless of any personal preferences felt by each justice.

Of the remaining dissenting justices, Justice Scalia has, thus far, been the most outspoken against the same-sex marriage decision, calling out his colleagues in sheer mockery for their decision, which he and the minority justices feel is an overreach of the highest court.

Be that as it may, the decision has been made, announced, and celebrated by the LGBT community. In truth, the decision was long overdue. It has been a fight between tooth and nail over the last decade to reach this point. What began at the state level through elections, finished at the highest federal level available.

While there were a few states in the beginning that passed the law initially, some went back and reversed it, while a vast number of others refused to recognize civil same-sex marriages that crossed state lines from one state that accepted the same-sex marriages to the next, which did not. 

There is similar concern among the various denominations of Christian churches, Jewish synagogues, Quaker meeting houses, and such, as some are more willing than others to perform same sex marriages, but here’s the thing to remember. When you are considering a same-sex marriage in a church, keep in mind that this is a religious realm and as such, not all churches will accept gay marriage for religious reasons and due to biblical, or other holy teachings. It truly varies from one church, synagogue, and meeting house to another, as well as one denomination to another. Despite a church’s willingness, or lack thereof, to accept the equality in marriage, the Supreme Court’s decision is still a win for the LGBT community.

There have also been some expressed concerns with children involved in a same-sex family. However, every child needs a loving family, regardless of whether that family consists of a mother and a father, or two mothers, or two fathers. Love is still love in the end.

A part of this movement began with the Defense of Marriage Act, which was signed by President Bill Clinton back in 1996, essentially giving individual states the right to refuse to recognize a same-sex marriage. While the traditional view of marriage has been held for centuries as that being between man and woman only, times have changed as have people, and we need to change with it and finally accept what has been there all along.

As a member of the LGBT community, I cannot express my enthusiasm enough that finally, finally the equal right to love and marry need not be restricted to the traditional realm of man and woman only, but now should also include the once forgotten and once taboo relationships found among same-sex couples. After all, love does not simply apply only to one specific group of people, but rather transcends across the lines, and it is truly a great relief to see that has finally gained the recognition that it ultimately deserves.

Photos courtesy of ibtimes.com and demchron

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The Breakup Playlist - Film Review

Sometimes all we want in a movie is a beautiful story delivered with warmth and smiles. A simple movie to make you feel good after watching, without regrets.

and that's how 'The Breakup Playlist' was. 

Stars Piolo Pascual and Sarah Geronimo, under Star Cinema and Viva Films, 'The Breakup Playlist'  is a simple yet insightful film about love, career, family, forgiveness and second chances. It's about learning how to not compromise love with your ideals and insecurities. 

The Breakup Playlist gave me and those who watched already the sense of realism in terms of relationship and romance, Just like music, love can be sad, dark, sweet, or colourful depending on how you will express it.

The film follows the love story of two musicians who broke up because of insecurities. Sarah plays the role of a law student who got recruited to become a lead vocalist in a band with Piolo Pascual. The two became lovers as their careers blossomed. The conflict occured when Piolo started feeling less appreciated. Carried away by his ego, he pushed Sarah away despite the many times of Sarah reminding him that there shouldn't be competiton in love. 3 years later, a recording company offered them to have a reunion concert. With so much hatred in Sarah's heart, will she be able to forgive Piolo and give him a second chance?

The Breakup Playlist, (directed by Dan Villegas and written by Antonette Jadaone) is now showing in all theaters nationwide . Other than the infectious musical vitality, the movie also conveys a uniquely exhilarating romance between Sarah Geronimo and Piolo Pascual who I thought would never work.

Sarah Geronimo is simply the next megastar! Pure, Exquisite, Sparkling and Versatile! No other artist can be so real when it comes to being giddy and happy. She's more mature now in this movie with how she acted out being mad and tired. I seriously can't think of a movie where she has disappointed the audience. 

ABS-CBN has a lot of good looking male celebrities but none can be as Telegenic as Piolo Pascual. He was so amazing that he can create a chemistry with a leading lady 10 years younger than him. I also need to commend him for his outstanding and refined delivery of a character who was feeling down and a failure. 

If I remember it right, there was a moment in Piolo's life when he was almost ready to give up doing movies. Well I hope this honest review would make him feel that the industry still needs someone as bankable as him.

The Breakup Playlist is a decent movie I'm recommeding simply because of the level of reality to it in the performances acted out both by Sarah Geronimo and Piolo Pascual. 

The story allows you to evaluate the relationship that you have now with your partner. If one has hurt you, will just go away that easily? Or if that person who hurt you the most comes back after leaving you for sometime, will you take him back with a promise to not hurt you again? Love can be tiring at times but it's always worth it.

My rating for the movie is 4.5/5

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