2013 Intel Holiday Gift Guide

For those of you who are still looking for an awesome gift to spend that big Christmas bonus on, you’re in luck! Thanks to Intel, technology is sweeter this season of giving! Now there are computing devices with Intel Inside to match every appetite and budget – from traditional laptops to tablets to 2-in-1 devices to portable All-in-Ones.

There’s a lot to choose from (and salivate over) this holiday season. In the spirit of Christmas, we invite you to take a look inside the 2013 Intel Holiday Gift Guide to see the latest tech eye candy available for purchase in the Philippines.

ASUS Transformer Book T100, SRP: PHP23,995

Lenovo Yoga 2 Pro, SRP: PHP74,995

Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 10.1, SRP: PHP16,995

Vets Speak: The Time is now for Preventive Pet Health

Companion animals are loyal friends that bring joy to every pet owner. It is the companionship and devotion of a pet that forges a deep bond with people. By providing shelter, food, veterinary care and safety, pet owners are able to return that special affection and fulfill their responsibilities as a pet owner. There are easy, preventative steps pet owners can take to help promote overall wellness and a long healthy life for their cats and dogs.

Proper pet nutrition and care promote a long and happy pet life.

Vets for Pets

A veterinarian is a crucial partner in the care of a pet. The quality of care that a pet receives in its earliest years can affect its health as it grows older. While some pet owners only seek veterinary advice upon noticing significant changes in their pet’s body, it is advised to bring a pet to a veterinarian regularly to minimize the chances of serious health condition.

Apart from recurring check-ups that cover the eyes to skin and fur, technology used by veterinarians can evaluate the complex aspects of health to aid the pet’s longevity. A visit to the local veterinarian can involve blood tests, oral exams, radiographs (X-rays), and urinalysis that can reveal what may be lacking or is being adequately provided to the pet.

Some diseases do not manifest physical symptoms immediately. If left untreated, pets may experience more pain once the illness has developed. For instance, many pet owners do not notice that their senior dog has osteoarthritis until it has become severe. Pets do not express their discomfort in the way that people do and some even mask their pain, which prevents early detection at home. Parasites, fleas, and ticks also pose dangers not only to pets but people as well. Contact with specific factors in the environment can bring about a risk to the overall fitness of the pet. However, regular veterinary care can shorten the treatment of potential problems, and even save on cost.

Vaccination

One of the cornerstones of responsible pet ownership is providing the pet with as much protection to aid its immune system as possible. Regular vaccination is an easy way to prevent serious illness in pets. Only veterinarians and trained practitioners can safely administer a vaccination after making a comprehensive assessment of age and health condition. There are several core vaccines that kittens and puppies need to receive as early as 6 weeks of age. For canines, veterinarians recommend vaccination for distemper, parvo, adenovirus, and rabies. On the other hand, felines are suggested to obtain panleukopenia or feline distemper, calici or respiratory infection, herpes, and rabies. Pet owners should seek professional veterinary opinion on the essential non-core vaccines to apply thereafter.

Among the many diseases that owners must keep their pets from contracting, rabies remains a principal concern. Although the country no longer belongs to the watch list of rabies incidents in the ASEAN region, there is still a need for pet owners to incorporate inoculation for rabies in their pet’s health maintenance schedule to ensure a happy and healthy life. Kittens and puppies are recommended to get one dose of rabies vaccine annually.

The Well-Fed Well-Nurtured campaign continues to guide the Philippine pet community to responsible pet ownership through education on proper pet nutrition and care.

Healthy Feeding

There is no specific feeding practice that perfectly suits all types of pets. A veterinarian can help determine the most suitable food to adequately sustain each pet’s weight, energy level for daily activities, and appearance.

Measuring the amount of food given of a particular diet is key to matching the unique metabolism and activity level of each pet. The feeding directions on the pet food label provide guidance on the quantity of pet food for each meal. A veterinarian can help a pet owner assess their pet’s weight and body condition. If the pet begins to gain or lose weight, the volume of food at each feeding should be adjusted. Treats should be provided in moderation to avoid packing extra weight. People foods must also be avoided as ingredients are not only potentially harmful to general pet health but also increases the opportunity for pets to exceed the allowed caloric intake and pack on the pounds. Pet owners should be vigilant of any rapid changes in the pet’s weight and energy level as it may indicate serious health condition such as malnutrition, diabetes, and even some cancers.

A wide range of commercial pet foods from the United States promote a well-balanced diet that is fully formulated for all stages of pet growth. Commercial U.S. pet food brands continue to bring the most regulated set of products in the animal food industry. Apart from research and safety procedures that ensure safe and nutritious pet food for cats and dogs, pet food makers aid consumers in understanding the product and its intended benefits.

No matter what risks are at play, by paying attention to and putting the nutritional needs of pets at the center of the daily routine, pet owners can help their furry companions experience a full and happy life. In an effort to educate Filipino pet owners about responsible pet ownership, the voice of the United States’ pet food industry, Pet Food Institute (PFI) and the Veterinary Practitioners Association of the Philippines (VPAP) share their vision for a healthier Philippine pet community through the Well-Fed, Well-Nurtured campaign. The public awareness campaign recently led lectures in Makati City and Parañaque City, and continues to work with VPAP, pet groups, and PFI member companies to amplify proper pet care in the country.

About the Pet Food Institute

PFI is the voice of the U.S. pet food industry and represents the companies that make 98% of U.S. pet food. PFI is the industry's public education and media relations resource, representative before the U.S. Congress and state and federal agencies, organizer of seminars and educational programs, and liaison with other organizations. PFI represents the companies that make 98 percent of U.S. dog and cat food. PFI is dedicated to promoting the overall care and well-being of pets, and supporting initiatives to advance the quality nutrition for dogs and cats. For more information on PFI and proper pet nutrition, visit www.petfoodinstitute.org.

About the Veterinary Practitioners Association of the Philippines

The Veterinary Practitioners Association of the Philippines (VPAP) is the oldest and biggest multi-disciplinary Veterinary association in the country. Founded in 1972 by a small group of practitioners involved in the fields of small animal, equine, swine and industrial medicine practices, the VPAP has grown leaps and bounds ever since it's conception. The VPAP now cover a wider variety of disciplines namely swine, large animals, small ruminants, wildlife, research, laboratory animals and even the academe. As envisioned by its founding Fathers, the VPAP seeks to promote and enhance the practice of Veterinary Medicine in the Philippines; foster a stronger and more active fellowship and comradeship among government institutions in the eradication of animal diseases, and with the end in view of contributing to their health and general welfare of the people; standardize professional fees; and hold, own or lease properties of whatever nature and kind not prohibited by law as are necessary or incidental to the exercise of the purpose of the association. During the last decades, the VPAP has been active in pushing for laws that has benefited both man and animals such as the animal welfare act, and the revised Veterinary act. Also, numerous continuing professional education programs [CPE] have been organized to enable the practitioner to continuously update his professional skills.

4 Reasons Why MILO is Good for Kids

For 49 years, MILO has championed health and wellness for generations of Filipino families with quality products that boast of big flavors and wholesome energy-giving nutrients. According to the recent Kantar Worldpanel Brand Footprint 2013 study, MILO has consistently ranked in the top 5 brands in the Philippines for both rural and urban households, cementing its reputation as a trusted and well-loved brand by kids and adults alike.

Having established itself as a local favorite among the youth, MILO does more than just provide a healthy source of energy for kids, but also advocates holistic development through sports. As a testament to MILO’s invaluable commitment to serving Filipino households, the brand shares the top 4 reasons why MILO is good for kids.

Breakfast is always better with MILO

Taking a full and nutritious breakfast before heading to school is essential in replenishing a child’s body and mind after a long night without food. Studies have shown that starting the day with a good meal has a positive impact on alertness and concentration, and helps establish a positive attitude towards different activities.

Pairing a well-balanced breakfast with MILO can help ensure that kids are prepared both physically and mentally for a full day ahead. Not only does a glass of MILO with breakfast in the morning sustain the body with lasting energy, it also helps invigorate kids to start the day early and accomplish more.

MILO packs natural energy-giving goodness

Fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, MILO is a reliable source of wholesome energy and nutrition for kids. MILO contains the malt extract PROTOMALT, a mixture of different types of carbohydrates that provide energy and nutrients that the body needs, and ACTIGEN-E, a combination of B vitamins and micronutrients and a source of Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, Vitamin C and Magnesium, to help optimize the release of energy from protein, carbohydrates and fat in food.

Nutritionally balanced and certified by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), MILO also has Protein, which is crucial for building and repairing body tissues, Calcium for strong bones and teeth, and Iron for red blood cell formation, to help provide the nutrients a growing child needs on a daily basis.

MILO is big on cocoa, big on taste

A winning combination in itself, MILO is not only a nutritious drink but a delicious one as well. Formulated with all-natural ingredients including cocoa, milk and malt, every serving of MILO packs the rich chocomaltee taste generations of Filipinos know and love.

“For over four decades, MILO has been and continues to be the preferred drink of kids, ages 7 to 12. It is actually the big chocomaltee taste that makes MILO such a hit among the kids of today, and so nostalgic for the kids of yesterday,” said Janice Yang, MILO Brand Manager, Nestle Philippines.

MILO inspires young athletes to pursue their dreams

Engaging kids in physical activities like sports builds physical stamina and strengthens their mental and social capacities. Kids can also develop character-forming values such as discipline and camaraderie from sports, helping them become champions on and off the playing field.

The MILO Summer Sports Clinics, MILO-sponsored Basketball Efficiency Scientific Training Center (BEST Center), National MILO Marathon and MILO Little Olympics all aim to develop young athletes and discover the next generation of champions. Many of today’s Filipino sports heroes are graduates of MILO-sponsored sports programs, including former SMART-Gilas Pilipinas team captain Chris Tiu, tae kwon do champion Japoy Lizardo, tennis pro Johnny Arcilla, WNCAA gold medalist MVP Princess Gaiser, and basketball phenomenon Kiefer Ravena, among others.

By providing an opportunity for the youth to showcase their athletic talent and skill, MILO comes full circle and reinforces its commitment to holistic youth development. “With the huge success of our youth sports events every year, MILO goes beyond being kids’ favorite chocolate beverage brand and becomes a platform through which young Filipinos aspire to achieve greatness,” added Yang.

“As we come closer to our 50th year serving the Philippines, we are very proud of the trust accorded to our brand and to our programs. We remain optimistic and hopeful towards the future of MILO and of our commitment to the youth.”

For more information, log on to the MILO Philippines Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/milo.ph) and follow MILO on Twitter (@MiloPH).

About MILO

The MILO brand is the world’s leading chocolate malt beverage that can be prepared with hot or cold milk or water. Given its popularity it is a “must have” product for food service operators particularly in Asia, Africa and Oceania.

MILO also promotes participation in sports through its Summer Sports Clinics, MILO-B.E.S.T. Center Training Program, MILO Marathon, and MILO Little Olympics. The leading beverage brand believes that these contribute to the holistic development of Filipino champions in sports and in life. 2013 marks MILO’s 49th year in the country.

About Nestle Philippines

Nearly a hundred years after it first started operations in the country, Nestle Philippines, Inc. (NPI) today is a robust and stable organization, proud of its role in bringing the best food and beverage throughout the stages of the Filipino consumers’ lives. The Company employs more than 3,200 men and women nationwide, and is now among the country’s Top 10 Corporations.

Driven by its mission to nurture generations of Filipino families, Nestle today produces and markets products under some of the country’s well known brands such as Nescafe, Nido, Milo, Nestea, Maggie, Bear Brand, Nestle and Purina, among others. Its product range has expanded to include coffee, milk, beverages, non-dairy creamer, food, infant nutrition, ice cream and chilled dairy, breakfast cereals, confectionery and pet care.

Starbucks 2014 Planners

Starbucks Philippines has launched its 2014 Planners that are surely a must to collect this holiday season.

The Starbucks 2014 Planners

The planners come in yellow, brown, pink, and black colors, all inspired by the coffee roast profiles available in Starbucks: Blonde, Medium, Dark, and Exotic Roasts. All feature leather colors and bookmarks unique to each planner. As usual, they have coupons that you can redeem at specific months of the year, but this planner has added coffee stamp stickers and QR codes that contain videos that help each customer experience the whole bean coffees better.

The Starbucks 2014 Planners can be redeemed until January 8, 2014. All customers have to do is collect a total of 18 stickers on their promo card: 9 Christmas beverages (Toffee Nut Latte, Peppermint Mocha, or Gingerbread Latte) plus 9 core drinks (except bottled beverages).

Collect those stickers now and have your own Starbucks 2014 Planners!

Starbucks Philippines Christmas Beverages

The red cups are here!

Starbucks Philippines has recently launched its Christmas beverages, all available from November 2, 2013 to January 8, 2014. Two favorites are coming back -- Peppermint Mocha and Toffee Nut Latte -- while a new drink is found in stores: Gingerbread Latte.

Peppermint Mocha -- now with crushed candy cane topping

Toffee Nut Latte -- the same ol' favorite

Gingerbread Latte -- gingerbread flavor blended with roasted espresso and steamed milk

These are available as hot, cold, or Frappuccino. Prices are at PHP160 for tall, PHP175 for grande, and PHP185 for venti.

Hurry to your favorite Starbucks store to grab these delicious Christmas beverages today!

Hooked on Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin)

It's been a while since I've last watched an anime series. I haven't really been concentrating on Bleach and Naruto that I've lost interest in them. One Piece, well, that I really haven't gotten to watch (I didn't like the animation, hehe!). So when my colleague recommended Attack on Titan (Jap. title: Shingeki no Kyojin), I thought that maybe I should watch it -- because I like animes with themes like dystopian/ alternate universe kinda thing.

Shingeki no Kyojin: TV series produced by Wit Studio

Attack on Titan is about the human race facing extinction with the arrival of titans devouring them not because of hunger but because of sheer pleasure/ instinct. The survivors then built concentric walls to protect themselves from the giants. After a century of peace, a Colossal Titan appeared and caused damage to the outermost wall, enabling the mindless titans to once again wreak havoc among humanity.

The story basically focuses on 3 childhood friends: Eren Jaeger, Mikasa Ackerman, and Armin Arlert. After seeing his mother being eaten by a titan, Eren vows revenge against the giants by enlisting in the military. After graduating, Eren, Mikasa, and Armin suddenly find themselves face to face with their old nemesis: the titans. As the military try to fight them and save the walls, Eren becomes a central figure in the battle, in which he and the human race do not know if he is friend or foe.

Originally an ongoing manga series, Attack on Titan has been translated for the boob tube, currently with 23 episodes as of this writing. I'm already in the 13th episode (have quite a lot to catch up on) and it's keeping me glued to the screen. So far, the pace has been exciting, leaving you wanting for more when you get to the last few minutes of each episode. For sure, it's going to be something I'll be watching for the coming weeks.

Just to give you a heads-up: scenes can get pretty violent. The first episode alone already echoes Bambi and Land Before Time. If you've watched both movies, you'll get the common denominator among the three. Hehe!

Can't wait to get my hands on the next episodes. If you're a fan of apocalyptic-themed shows, you'll like Attack on Titan.

Starbucks Philippines introduces Ristretto Bianco and Salted Caramel Mocha

In its aim to further enhance the coffee drinking experience of Filipinos, Starbucks Philippines has recently released 2 beverages in the market.

First is the Ristretto Bianco, an espresso drink that's first sold in Starbucks' European branches. This rich and velvety espresso beverage is making its way into the Philippines, introducing a cup of full-bodied coffee shot with microfoamed whole milk.

Ristretto Bianco: a full-bodied espresso shot and microfoamed milk with a dot finish at the center.

The second beverage is a returning favorite: the Salted Caramel Mocha. Imagine espresso, steamed milk, mocha sauce, toffee nut syrup, and whipped cream plus a buttery caramel sauce and a concoction of turbinado sugar and smoked sea salt. Sweet and salty, but perfect in the tongue. Enjoy it hot or iced, or as a frappuccino drink.

Salted Caramel Mocha. Sweet, salty, indulgent. Available in hot, iced, or frappuccino.

The Ristretto Bianco costs PHP145 for tall, PHP160 for grande, and PHP170 for venti. Salted Caramel is at PHP150 for tall, PHP165 for grande, and PHP175 for venti. Both are available at all Starbucks Philippines stores until November 1, 2013.

The Pinay is back

I know it's been a while--actually a very long while--since I've written anything in this blog. I've just been too busy doing a lot of stuff, on work and family and everything in between, that I haven't had the time to write about anything here.

Thankfully, I got to have a little downtime. In that moment, I checked my blogs (yes I have a couple of them) to see how they've been. And I got to thinking of reviving even just one of them. It would be such a shame if they just close down, after all the time I've invested in them.

So I went to this blog's settings, tweaked the look a bit (well, not really--the look is pretty much a far cry from before), and decided to breathe new life into this blog by posting. Yes, this Pinay is staging a comeback.

It doesn't mean new posts everyday, can't do that. But I'll make sure to post new things whenever I can--feedback on movies I've seen recently, food I've tasted, places I've been to, and all sorts of stuff. Just to keep it alive.

I intend to keep this blog alive. And hopefully, you, the reader, can support me on this. :)