CONVERSE: Shoes are boring…wear sneakers

“Shoes are boring, wear sneakers” is the new tagline of CONVERSE, one of the pioneer brands of rubber shoes and an old American icon that dates back from 1932. Since then, the brand has withstood all sorts of adversities such as the great depression and world wars. Converse was an iconic sports apparel in the early Olympics being worn by some of the great sports legends, not only in the west but throughout the rest of the world.

Many decades later, Converse still holds its title as an iconic figure among the youth to be a vibrant, versatile, and cool everyday footwear. With hundreds of models and up-to-date statements to the latest fashions, Converse is not left out to be a generation fad that will go out of style after a while. Even their legendary Chuck Taylor, which has not been tweaked from its original design, holds a character that is completely immortal.

Last January 18, 2013, Converse Philippines opened its very first flagship store located at the second level of the new Glorietta in Makati City. It was attended by friends, members of the media, and local celebs who use the footwear as an visual expression of their own artistic talents. Popular local bands like 6cyclemind and Gracenote are two of the hottest alternative rock bands that attest to Converse’s quality design and comfort that fit their energetic performances on stage.

Converse’s versatility caters not only to the upscale types of people, but its inert character evenly jives well with everyday persons ranging from college students, struggling artists, the rank and file work force to the hip young professionals grooming their way up the corporate ladder. Converse simply fits anyone and with everything, any day.

Occupying a sprawling 275 sqm area, the flagship store is the largest CONVERSE shop in the Philippines to date. It houses a wide array of CONVERSE merchandise that range from the well-loved Chuck Taylors, Jack Purcells, Cons, John Varvatos in addition to other popular CONVERSE apparel, bags, and accessories.

Everyone is invited to visit the new store and experience Converse first hand. Be among the thousands of people who describe this awesome footwear as the sneakers that is cool, confident, creative, innovative, and gets the job done.

Run United Rallies Filipinos to “Exceed Yourself” in 2013

I have been joining the runs of Run United for three years now, and last year’s was a special one for me because finally, I completed the three medals of the trilogy and had the opportunity to vie for the first ever Run United Philippine Marathon. It was supposed to be an epic run that culminates my running project for 2012 but came a week before the RUPM, my work required me to go to Mindanao for a training facilitation. I Accepted the task because the schedule ends on the day before RUPM, and so I thought. On the day of my flight back to Manila, one freak of nature broke loose in Mindanao and the weather at that time was not on my side. All flights to Manila were cancelled. Whaaaaa!!! And there goes my RUPM.

As soon as I went back to Manila and still with a heavy heart, I tried my best not to view any photos of RUPM in the FB because I felt really bad and I really felt that I was betrayed by circumstances. But as my days became gloomier, a silver lining of hope came by. A blogger-ultra runner friend of mine Blas Ople Tianco a.k.a. Titanium Runner offered me to run at Quezon City International Marathon which I happily accepted with great thanks giving in my heart. Just a week ago, it was followed by another full marathon opportunity at Subic International Marathon 2013 which I completed at 4 hours and 58 minutes.

Over the years of running, I came to a point to learn organize my running schedules and trainings. I have learned that not all running opportunities will push through for me because it will come a time that it will interfere with other important matters. For this 2013, I will make sure that all of my running dates are geared towards my improvement and growth as a runner. So this year, I will plan my schedule better and finally complete the Run United Trilogy and RUPM 2013.

Last week, I was so fortunate to be a part of the launching of the Run United 1 2013 first series. It was held at the function room of Active Building at the Bonifacio Global City. It was attended by Unilab’s key People, members of the media and in the running circle and of course Run Rio with Coach Rio Dela Cruz himself.

Organizers of RU1 talked about some important concerns regarding the increasing demands of running slots on longer distances. It’s another proof that the Pinoys are really getting serious in running now days and they're getting more mature as well. So this year, RU will focus on those concerns and will make sure that more runners can register on longer categories. In addition to that, RU Organizers have scratch out 3k category but will retain the 500 meter dash for kids. So this coming RU-1, categories will be 500m, 5k, 10k, and 21k.

Another change that RU organizers presented is the race rout. Unlike the previous years were 21k and 32k started at BGC and ended at SM MOA, this time, all distances will start and end at SM Mall of Asia to address baggage and logistic concerns. I guess, they have thought of this idea because, it entails a lot of cost bringing in several buses of baggage’s of runners from BGC to MOA, not to mention the issues of confusion in claiming them. Since they have cut the cost in that area, RU runners this year will expect a much bigger Unilab Active Festival and much better tokens for runners. Yeppeee!! !

Much more are expected to improve on this year’s RU, and some of them are the race singlets and finisher’s shirts that are far better than before, the construction, design and fabric quality are superb. The finishers medals have change as well, with a new cut-out puzzle pattern pieces that will make runners crave to complete the trilogy even more. All these and more awaits all RU loyalties for this year’s Run United Trilogy Series.

The complete Run United 2013 race schedules are as follows: Run United 1 on March 17, Run United 2 on June 2, and Run United Philippine Marathon on October 6. Prior to this, the Bull Runner Dream Marathon will kick off on February 24, 2013. 

For Triathletes , Tri United 1 2013 on March 10, 2013 and Tri United 2 will be on July 7 2013 both will be held at Playa Laiya Batangas. Tri United 3 is on October 26 in Subic and the fourth and final leg of Tri United will be fired off in Ayala Alabang on November 24, 2013. Moreover, Unilab Active Health Duathlon will be on September 8 at SCTEX, Clark Pampanga. 

 For details, please visit www.unilabactivehealth.com

Papa John’s : The only better ingredients for better pizza

Other than the best quality ingredients that comprise Papa John’s Pizza, what really makes it good are the integrity of people who make and serve them. Take for example the founder himself, John Schnatter. Little do many people know that in 1984, John sold his 1972 Chevy GTO Charger just to save his dad's ailing restaurant. He used the money to convert an old mop room as a brick oven to make the first Papa John’s pizzas that many people came to love. Now, wasn't that a noble gesture from a son?

After conquering pizza lovers in the US, Papa John’s is now also capturing the Pinoy’s taste for pizza with its 13 stores in Metro Manila. Consistent with their high quality standards, Papa John’s is committed to offer Filipinos the best ingredients that will make the best tasting pizza everyone will love. 

Just to give you an example, the little black olives on top of their pizzas are grown and harvested in the rich fertile valleys of Central California. The dough are delivered fresh and not frozen like other pizza makers do. Of course, same quality goes to its other ingredients that make Papa John’s Pizza taste so good. 

Last week, a small band of food reviewers were invited to get a taste of Papa John’s bestsellers. We started out with Pasta selections such as Carbonara, Sausage Mushroom Rosa and Meatball Bolognaise. Among the three, the Carbonara is my favorite. 

And then of course, we got to taste the Pizza. We started with Papa John’s best seller, the Super Papa: a pizza with everything on it. We also tried the Pepperoni Pizza which is much popular among families dining together. One unique best thing when eating Papa John’s Pizza, is the crust on the edge. In addition, the restaurant has come up with a savory garlic butter dip that lets you finish the crust and everything on your plate. 

This coming Valentines season, as many people celebrate the hearts month in many restaurants for their memorable dates, Papa John’s have come up with a special something suited for young lovers -- the Half&Half Pizza. Get to taste two variations of Pizza in one pie! 

Now, you'll not only get to have your personal fave but your partner will also get hers evenly. This special pizza will be available from February 1 to 28, 2013 only. But wait! There’s more. To make the Valentine celebration even more sweeter and special, Papa John’s will give away 12 pieces of Hershey’s kisses for every order of Half&Half. 

Visit Papa John’s Pizza at their following branches: Robinson’s Galleria, University Mall Taft Avenue, Greenhills, Brick Road, Sta Lucia Mall, Tomas Morato, BF Homes Paranaque, Fairview, SM Mega Mall, SM North Edsa, Greenbelt, Waltermart, Sucat, Jupiter Street corner Makati Avenue and Arnaiz Street, Makati City.

Art Fair Philippines 2013

A highly exceptional event is happening in Makati this coming February 7 to 10, 2013. A promising art exhibit and fair will be staged in the 6th level of the Link Car Park Building that will serve not just a venue but an art canvas by itself because the place will be transformed into vibrant artistic cradle for the much awaited Art Fair Philippines 2013.

This year’s art fair will feature modern and contemporary art by renowned Filipino artist and art galleryst that will certainly elevate the Pinoy passion for the arts and culture. As its celebrate National Arts Month, Makati will take center stage as it host this year’s Art Fair Philippines 2013.

Last January 16, 2013, proponents of the art fair host a media launch that was graced by its board of trustees, prominent names in the arts and culture scene such as Ms. Dindin B. Araneta, Ms. Trickie C. Lopa and Ms. Lisa O. Periquet. It was also attended by members of the media in both online and print, some art gallery owners and art couturiers.

 World renowned designer Mr. Kenneth Cobonpue is responsible for the whole layout of the venue

The hostesses, treated the guest in sumptuous lunch while they presented some of the highlights of the fair. They also highlighted some of the famous names in the contemporary art such as Elmer Borlongan, Emmanuel Garibay and Don Salubayba. Popular galleryst Tin-Aw will mount a solo show by Mark Justiniani. The fair will also be participated by art galleries namely, Silverlens, The Drawing Room, Galleria Duemila, Blanc, Art Informal, Manila Contemporary, Finale Art Gallery, MO Space, Boston Gallery among others.

Another feature of this art event is a specially commissioned sculpture from renowned kinetic sculpture Gabriel Barredo. Alongside with this special event is a specially-commissioned reception desk artistically sculptured from San Miguel Beer bottle crates by artist Norberto “Peewee”Roldan, Jr. This art work will be seen in front to give the guests an exceptional welcome sign. 

The Art fair will run from February 7 until the 10th. Guests and visitors in the evening will be treated by food and wine while they roam around among art aficionados appreciating everything the fair has to offer. The food and drinks are courtesy of Kai Restaurant and the Straits Wine Company. For more information about the Art Fair Philippines 2013, schedule, tickets and complete lists of participating artist and galleries, one may visit www.artfairphilippines.com. Art Fair Philippines 2013 is organized by Philippine Art Events Inc. 

AXE Philippines to launch the first Filipino into space

If you happen to be one of the countless guys out there who suffer from “strangled-relationship” and finally declare to your gal, “Honey, I need some space! “, well, why not really consider going to the outer space? That’s right. The zero-gravity space walking beam-me-up Scotty kind of space is what I’m talking about. 

Finally, for the very first time, a space travel agency called Space Expedition Corporation (SXC) and XCOR Aerospace will be sending regular untrained people to experience the environment of the real outer space. AXE Fragrance Cologne for Men have created the AXE Apollo Space Academy, a program where in it can send ordinary people to outer space. The grand plan is to send one person in every AXE Country on Earth, including the Philippines to experience a zero-gravity moon walking gig. 

Last week at the White Space Venue, AXE Philippines staged the official launching of the newest scent of AXE, the AXE Apollo body Spray. Together with key people, friends form the media, they also announced the most exciting contest to be held at Facebook where in one Filipino is get to be chosen to be the first Filipino to visit the International Space Station in outer space. That is right. The very first Pinoy Astronaut! 

AXE Philippines is calling all Filipino men out there to join the most awesome contest ever and be included among the ranks of space legends like Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Yuri Gagarin and be a part of a history in the making. The mechanics of the contest is to be found at this link: www.AxeApollo.com. You may also visit the AXE Philippines Facebook fan page at www.facebook.com/AxePhilippines for more information. 

Araneta Center Food Trip Passport Promo

PRESS RELEASES: 

 What is a Food Trip Passport? 

The Food Trip Passport is a special ticket that entitles its holder to several free meals at a designated sponsoring restaurant at the Araneta Center (Gateway Mall, Coliseum Circle, Farmers Plaza, Farmers Market, Ali Mall, and Shopwise). 

A.) The Food Trip Passport entitles a holder to P1000 worth of food at an establishment for every visit, valid for a total of 10 visits (equivalent to P10,000 worth of food).

 
B.) The Food Trip Passport is non-transferable and not convertible to cash.

C.) The holder should consume the P1000 for every visit. Any unused amount left will not be valid for the remaining visits. 

D.) The Food Trip Passport expires three months from the date it was issued to the holder.

E.) The Food Trip Passport can only be used once in a day.

F.) It is good for 10 visits only within the 3-month validity period.

G.) Valid on weekdays and weekends.

Be the next The Araneta Center Food Trip Passport winner! 

This January, another lucky foodie will get to be the sole owner of the Araneta Center Food Trip Passport sponsored by SumoSam, Gateway Mall. You can win the Araneta Center Food Trip Passport in 3 easy steps: 

1. Like the Araneta Center Food Trip page.

2. On the Araneta Center Food Trip page, post your answer to this question: What is your favorite food trip spot at the Araneta Center and why?

3. Post a photo of you dining at your favorite Araneta Center restaurant along with the answer and use the #aranetacenterfoodtrip hashtag.

 (*Araneta Center refers to Gateway Mall, Smart Araneta Coliseum Circle, Farmers Plaza, Farmers Market, Ali Mall, and Shopwise.) 

Promo Period: January 3 -25, 2013
Mechanics:

1. Entries beyond 6PM on January 25, 2013 will not be valid.

2. Announcement of winners will be made on January 26, 2013.

3. The best photo entry and answer to the promo question wins one (1) food trip passport from The Araneta Center.

4. The winner is entitled to several free meals at SumoSam Restaurant worth P1,000 per visit. The food trip passport is valid for 10 visits only. Total of P10,000 worth of food.

5. The winner must claim their prize from January 28, 2013 to February 1, 2013 only.

6. The food trip passport is valid for three months upon its issuance on February 1, 2013.

7. You can only avail of the prize treat at SumoSam Restaurant in Gateway Mall branch within the food trip passport’s validity.

8. The food trip passport cannot be combined with any other ongoing promo of SumoSam Restaurant.

9. Prize is not convertible to cash.

10. Please bring a print out of the congratulatory email from The Araneta Center and a photo ID when claiming your prize.

11. Representatives must bring an authorization letter and a photocopy of the winner’s ID when claiming the prize.

GNC Burn 60 Challenge winner overcomes longtime weight issues

PRESS RELEASE :

Weight loss pills are a dime a dozen in the market, and choosing the best can be a challenge for those looking to shake off some extra pounds. Helping Filipinos lose weight the safe and healthy way is GNC, the world’s leading provider of health solutions and weight management products, with its Burn 60 dietary supplement. Effective for all-around weight loss, Burn 60 is specifically targeted to burn calories by up to 60% more as well as boost energy and metabolism.

GNC Total Lean Burn 60 Cinnamon Flavored Tablets

Attesting to this claim is 35 year-old sales and marketing professional Cush Evangelista, who lost 12 pounds in four weeks and won GNC’s Burn 60 challenge, a month-long weight loss challenge among five participants who underwent rigorous exercise activities in Gold’s Gym under the supervision of qualified fitness trainer Archie Luna.

Down the healthy road. For Cush who’s long been struggling with weight issues, trying to get back in shape presented a tough but rewarding task. At his heaviest, Cush weighed 198 pounds¾a startling figure for someone with a height of 5’6. Having become obese, Cush decided it was time to take his health seriously and head to the gym. “I lived a sedentary lifestyle for about four years,” he opens up. “I was always too busy with work to find time to exercise and eat right. I either didn’t eat at all or binged, eating two Big Macs at a time. I’ve been working out since April of last year but it wasn’t until the Burn 60 challenge that I, with the help of my trainer, took my routine to another level,” he says.

GNC Burn 60 Challenge winner Cush Evangelista (left) keeps fit and healthy with the help of GNC and trainer Archie Luna.

Cush shares that the secret to making Burn 60 work is proper management, with exercise playing an integral part in helping him accomplish the challenge. “Burn 60 works well if it’s supported with an increased workout regimen,” he says. Aside from engaging in more intensive training at the gym, Cush also made changes in his diet. “Burn 60 is already an appetite suppressant but I also made a conscious effort to take in more vegetables and fruit, and avoiding white carbs.” Cush also considers his kids as his number one inspiration for losing weight. “Primarily, I want to be healthy for my children,” says Cush, who has two young kids age 12 and 3. “More than just looking and feeling good, joining the Burn 60 challenge is really about me transitioning into a healthier lifestyle. The boost to my self-esteem is just a plus.” 

Taking home a cash prize worth P10, 000 and renewed self-confidence, Cush remains driven to keep the weight off, even losing an additional 3 pounds after the challenge. Like Cush, you can take charge of your body and get rid of unwanted fat with Burn 60 available at a GNC store near you.

“PARENTAL GUIDANCE” FROM BILLY CRYSTAL

PRESS RELEASE:

In the family comedy “Parental Guidance,” Artie Decker (Billy Crystal), who is accustomed to calling the shots, meets his match when he and his eager-to-please wife Diane (Bette Midler) agree to babysit their three grandkids when their type-A helicopter parents (Marisa Tomei, Tom Everett Scott) go away for work.  

Inevitably things go haywire as soon as they arrive. The kids are not happy to see their grandparents, who have a very different approach to parenting and family life from their mother and father.

Artie’s has mixed feelings about this which is partly due to his recent professional setbacks. A minor league baseball announcer for over 30 years, Artie has just been fired, losing his dream to work in the major leagues. Still reeling from that disappointment, the last thing he wants is to look after his grandchildren. But Artie will ultimately discover that there’s more to life than announcing ball games. “He’s been fired from a job he loves, but then finds himself kind of falling in love with his grandkids,” says Crystal.

“Parental Guidance” combines comedy and pathos in the best way,” affirms Billy Crystal, who portrays Artie Decker. “It’s what life is about. This film has something for everyone.” 

 Crystal further elaborates on the following q&a the joys of growing up, being a grandparent and producing “Parental Guidance.”

Q: Can you describe Artie and Diane’s marriage?

A: “They are not typical grandparents in that they don’t see the kids a lot and live on the other side of the United States. He and Diane are very devoted to each other; it's an old-school, traditional kind of relationship in that his wife has supported him throughout the marriage. When our daughter calls and says, ‘I need you to take care of the kids’, Bette says ‘yes’ but I don't want to go. Bette Midler is fantastic as Diane. We were so privileged that she agreed to play the role with me.” 

Q: Artie is a bit old-fashioned in that way?

A: “Artie is not tech savvy at all. He is not kid savvy either and that's part of the charm of the movie. He tries to find himself again and get out of his malaise about losing his job. He starts to realize that what's really important is being a loving grandfather and the fact that the kids love him.” 

Q: What is your relationship like with your kids now?

A: “We hate each other; we don't speak! (laughs). No, now it's even better. It is great seeing the fruits of your labor. The joy I have in watching my daughters with their kids is great, because they're doing a wonderful job and the kids are fantastic. Recently we were all together in one house for ten days and it was lovely. I think it's profound to watch the legacy go on. My parents did a good job, we did a good job, they're doing a good job and that's all you can ask for.” 

Q: It's still hard to think of you as a grandfather.

A: “It is amazing to me too. But I've settled into being a grandfather. I love being around the kids. They’re starting to understand what I do now for a living and they're starting to see me in movies. They have an entirely different view of me now they know that I act and that I was Mike Wazowski in MONSTERS INC. I had to talk like him for six months. Then they saw THE PRINCESS BRIDE and I had to be Miracle Max (his character from the movie) for six months. And now they get to see me in this film. So it's a really nice time in my life.” 

“Parental Guidance” opens January 16 in theaters from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.

CafeFrance: Run for "Good Health”

PRESS RELEASE:

CaféFrance, the metro’s go-to place for fresh and healthy food, celebrates its 2nd year anniversary with “Run for Good Health”, its first ever series of fun run events on January 26 at the CCP Complex in Roxas Blvd. An exciting fitness event to help everyone stay in shape, “Run for Good Health” reflects CafeFrance’s mission of providing Filipinos healthier options for a better lifestyle.

 “With this event, we hope to encourage families and friends to experience the fun and the benefits of running, and kick off a healthier year for themselves,” says Raymond Yap, EVP for CafeFrance Corp.

 “Run for Good Health” caters to men and women of various fitness levels, with categories including 3K, 5K and 10K races. Participants will receive a race packet consisting of a singlet, race number bib, course information, promotional items. They also stand a chance to win up to P7000 in cash plus other big prizes. 

Interested parties can join for a fee of P300 or by presenting the following to any establishment under CaféFrance’s group of restaurants: P1000 single receipt or two accumulated receipts or gift certificate at CaféFrance or Karate Kid (Metro Manila stores); or P1000 single receipt or gift certificate at Congo Grille, Flavours of China, Tempura Japanese Grill and Holy Cow (Metro Manila stores). 

 Registration is until January 25 so hurry and grab a slot now to start your race to wellness!

Sentro 1771: An authentic Filipino Cuisine

What a wonderful way to start 2013 with a cozy lunch date with my wife Ruth Floresca at Sentro 1771. Sentro 1771 is the sister company of Chateau 1771, a popular posh resto quite famous for their fine dining European cuisine. Sentro, on the other hand is best known for its authentic Filipino cuisine with twist of original recipe of their resident chef, no other than Chef Vicky Rose Pacheco.

Among the best sellers of Sentro is the most sought after dish, the Corned Beef Sinigang. I’m a very big fan of Sinigang and I love cooking them as well at home. Unfortunately, some Sinigang I’ve tasted around don’t quite get the right balance of the flavors I’m looking for. My version has been my bench mark in terms of getting the right Sinigang. However, the Corned Beef Sinigang of Sentro tops everything else I’ve tasted including mine. So when you visit Sentro, don’t fail to order this dish. This dish is served in two variants, one is the solo size and the other one is for sharing size that is good for three to four people, served in a Palayok-pot with burner to keep it hot. They are priced at P310 and P595 respectively.

 

For starters, one great dish to try is the Fresh Smoke Spring Rolls – Fresh Lumpia of Tinapang Bangus. These are small maki-like rolls, with strips of Tinapang Bangus, veggies, salted egg and flavorful herbs and spices, rolled in small lumpia wrappers. These rolls are best dip in vinegar. Each serving is a set of eight rolls, individually placed on ceramic saucers on ceramic slab. The rolls are priced at P270 per serving of eight.

A must try drink Sentro is offering which was suggested by the waiter is the Lemon Pandan Juice. This drink is a special house blend of Pandan extract with a mix of Lemon juice and natural sweeteners. It is best to order a pitcher size to get the most of the taste and flavors of this thirst quenching drink.

A side dish that best matches the Corned Beef Sinigang is the Bangus and Egg plant Torta with Hawaiian Palm, another Sentro Cuisine that is authentically Filipino. At first, I never thought it was Bangus because it doesn’t taste like at all fish. All along I thought it was ground pork, not until I saw the menu for the second time. The presentation was also superb, getting the almost perfect round shape of the dish. At the edge of the serving plate, is small side-dish salads consist of ripe mango strips and shredded green veggies and pickled dressing.

If you eat at Sentro, never fail to complete the meal without getting a dessert. I, for one is not much of a dessert individual but the dessert I’m about to mention is definitely an exceptional one. I’m talking about the famous Banana Tart. It is a pastry cremebrulee with caramelized custard with banana slices on top. At P150 each, this dessert is definitely a treat for the gods.

Another dessert that is worth giving into is the Keso Flan. It has all the ingredients of a Bibingka but it’s not. In Tagalog, Parang Bibingka pero Hindi. It is a special kind of cheese cake with keso de Bola and salted egg on the side, so you can have the feel of the typical Bibingka pudding, only it’s better. 

The portion of the dishes that was served to us was small but more than enough for the two people can share. The lunch date was certainly a very filling one and I’m hoping to visit Sentro again very soon. 

Note: All photos courtesy of mommywrites.blogspot.com

Grace Poe: Reliving FPJ's Vision

Poverty is the biggest scandal in this country -FPJ

This statement was one of the platforms of the late Fernando Poe Jr. when he ran for president last 2004. Among the many sound and idealistic social reform programs of FPJ, were his desire to transform this country through sound leadership and governance. Sad to say, his untimely demise robbed him from seeing this visions come to reality.

For the past months now, many of us have been seeing some teasers and bumper stickers posted around on busses and other public transportation and establishments that reads; “Grace Po ako”, a subliminal hint to the public of Ms. Grace Poe-Llamanzares, the daughter of FPJ her plans of running for public office. And finally, last December, the Team Grace Poe went out to the open to declare, Ms. Grace Poe’s desire to run for the senate seat this coming 2013 election.

Along with the members of the media, close family and friends, Grace Poe, articulated her plans in addressing some of the bleeding areas of our country are experiencing. She talked about her plans of building on her father’s social covenant that can be summarized in three key areas; Poverty Alleviation, Opportunities for Our Children and Electoral Reforms.

After her presentation, she intelligently and candidly answered some thought-provoking questions from the media covering some delicate issues like the RH Law, Cybercrime Law that is yet to be amended, Freedom of information bill, Logging and Mining. All these and other crucial issues were tackled and how these plans are in congruent to her father’s vision of transforming this country and bringing it to greatness.

The Team Grace Poe also presented their strategy in spreading public awareness and capitalizing her father’s public appeal and influence most especially in areas where FPJ held stronger grounds and that is the marginalized communities. Their biggest challenge is capturing the interest of the groups of the “intellects” and “elites” to believe and support her in the coming election. 

The Team Grace Poe is appealing to the media to help her on this campaign and her genuine plans of really bringing honest to goodness reforms in the law making body of our country and will benefit the cause of the majority. 

For inquiries and show of support to the Team Grace Poe, you may get in touch with them in the following details: Tel. 441-2687, 441-2511, FaceBook Accnt: TeamGracePoe, Twitter Accnt: @TeamGracePoe, Website: www.gracepoe.ph 

Subic Internaitonal Marathon 2013 Now on its 8th Year

The long wait is almost over. Only 18 days to go and it’s the Subic International Marathon 2013 once again!

I remember, it was just over a year ago I had a the opportunity of joining this memorable marathon race because it was also my debut marathon where I completed to finish 42k at 5 hours and on barefoot. I can still refresh the memories of every kilometer I ran, including my preparations, training and finally the cardiac-moment of anticipation while I and 420 others waited for the gun start at Remy Field, Subic. Truly, every step of that 42 kilometer was a journey of self discovery and adventure.

And now, with a couple two more 42s on my shoulder, I will return to Remy Field on January 27, 2013 as a much stronger and mature barefoot runner, anxious to experience another full marathon adventure. I’m also excited to see fellow marathoners from last year’s SIM, the runners who paced me, those who bothered to stop and helped me during some of my pit-stop and gave me some stretching. To all of them, I’m truly grateful.

Subic International Marathon 2013 is produced and co-organized by two groups namely, CORPS Movement and Dilaab Foundation. These two organizations are also in partnership with eXtribe as the chief race organizer. Five years ago, Gen. (Ret.) Sammy Tucay instituted this event along side with a movement which he also founded. Originally, the objective is to transform misbehaved police officer in a form of a boot-camp, and each participating officer is achieved to be holistically upright and fit enough to run a full marathon; hence, the SMI was born. 

Started only as a national event with 5,000 runners, it has grown over the years to an international marathon now being participated by seasoned runners from different parts of the Asian Region and some countries around the world. 

As the organizers continue to forge on with their vision, SMI will continue to grow and will eventually be a premier marathon event in the Philippines. SIM, will be held at the Remy Field inside Subic on January 26 to January 27, 2013.