Stream Cebu: Paying it Forward Campaign

Coming from an outsourcing (call center type) of company, I totally understand how stressful, frustrating even, work is. Most people come and go in this type of industry and for those individual who survive, I commend all of you!

Despite stress, companies make sure that their employees develop positive lifestyle and well-being. That is Stream Cebu's way of giving back and saying thank you to their major asset in the business.

Pay It Forward Campaign started with Stream's employees and eventually reciprocated by the management. It was a good avenue for everyone to share their ideas and make it happen...and these were some of their events:

These kids looks so happy!

Mangrove planting

Hair donation for cancer patients/survivors.

Helping the community with perspective! These acts are worth commendable indeed. I did I mention that these will be a recurring event. Yes, it will be a lifetime support to the children and the rest that needs their helping hand.

Their next project is a Post Election Clean-up since election is almost near.

How Can You Make the World a Better Place?

Wonderful day everyone! It has been weeks since I made my last post and I sincerely apologize for not updating often. (I know...I'm such a couch potato!) Anyways, I hope everyone is doing very well with life in general. Okaaay, I'm going to spill some info. I recently bough my first Android phone and I'm seriously hooked with Dubbler and found out that #Earth Day hash tag was being used by mostly everyone yesterday. (Was it Earth Day yesterday? I'm so sorry, I didn't know.)

So I went ahead and checked the net on how can I make the World a better place and you can start by visiting the site: http://www.myworld2015.org/ and cast your vote on how you want the World to be. It won't take 5 minutes of your time. I just made mine earlier.

Made a difference to my World :)

My votes went more to environment, justice, freedom and better government:

• Clearly, all of us are experiencing sudden change of weather and climate. Most of us grumble how hot the weather is but we really did not do anything to lessen our carbon footprints. I have been an advocate of Global Warming awareness and I always consider my action to lessen my contribution to our carbon print. I greatly suggest you do the same.
• Living in a 3rd World country, I can see that there are a lot of space for improvement with regard to protection against crime and violence, discrimination, improved healthcare and all of these boils down to better, honest and responsive government. Government might think that these are too much to ask, but do take not that the 'Government' was made to govern and improve human welfare including all of these.

I would greatly appreciate if you cast your vote and make a difference to the World! :D

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MY World is a United Nations global survey for citizens. Working with partners, we aim to capture people’s voices, priorities and views, so world leaders can be informed as they begin the process of defining the next set of global goals to end poverty.

What's in the Bag?

Everyone has been tweeting around about Flawless' new campaign and what it is all about. Basically, they are recycling their old billboards into stylish eco-bags...and I think this campaign was well thought of. Kudos in promoting beauty not just for our physic, but to our environment as well.

What's in the bag?

***

Flawless Prepares to Celebrate 11 Years of Accessible Beauty with CSR Campaign.

One big advantage of billboards is their ability to reach a big number of audiences across all demographics and display ads for long periods of time. However the question is 'what happens when a billboard is taken down?' For most companies that create or commission billboard advertisements, once the campaign or the message of the ad is over, the after product is more or less 100 pounds of used vinyl, which for all intents and purposes is useless.

The BillBag Project

This is a problem that Flawless has struggled with for years now. Known for its many flashy billboards that stand prominently along some of the busiest roads in the metro, the country’s preferred clinic for face, body and medical services, recently launched a new campaign that turns its advertising wastes to useful resources for the benefit of the environment -- the BillBag Project.

A portmanteau of the words “billboard” and “bag,” the BillBag Project upcycles leftovers of Flawless’ past advertising materials by turning them into stylish eco-bags. The billboard vinyl is a sturdy material that can withstand weathering, which means that bags made from this material will survive anything that the average user could put them through. And one single billboard goes a long way -- a single 40x50 feet vinyl can make up to 500 bags.

Serving as an exemplary illustration of the brand’s dedication to promoting and preserving beauty, the company developed the campaign with the intent of bringing high-quality, relevant and affordable products to everyone while reducing waste at the same time.

I am still very interested what is really inside the bag though. :D

“The BillBag Project is the perfect representation of how Flawless wants to be seen as a brand,” says Rubby Sy, CEO of Flawless. “We are a responsible company that constantly seeks for ways to maximize our resources to do good. We are proud of this CSR (corporate social responsibility) campaign because we designed it to make a big difference and a lasting impact in the lives not just of Filipinos today, but of future generations as well. We are very happy to be doing this in time for our 11th anniversary.”

Sy adds, “Corporate social responsibility has always been part of Flawless, but this is the first time that we are publicizing our efforts. We want other companies who are into putting up billboards to follow suit. Let’s continue to push boundaries and look for opportunities to go beyond our businesses by pushing for efforts that promote nation building.”

In addition to its BillBag Project, Flawless also has another big treat for all beauty and wellness aficionados this December in the form of its “What's in the Bag?” campaign. According to Sy, “Our 11th anniversary will be nothing short of explosive. It will be a month-long celebration and we have loads of great surprises for everyone. We urge you all to stay tuned. Find out what's in the bag by constantly checking our website and Facebook and Twitter pages.”

Find out what's in the bag this December. Get a free BillBag with every single purchase of 1,100 pesos worth of Flawless products from December 1, 2012 to January 1, 2013 and celebrate 11 years of bringing world-class beauty closer to Filipinos.

IBM is pro ENVIRONMENT! I have been dying to join any group that would go tree planting and finally, I will be joining the IBM employees from Cebu to their IBM Mangrove Reforestation Project in Cebu 2011 where we will be going Olango Island on June 11, 2011 to plant mangrove trees.

IBM Mangrove Reforestation Project in Cebu 2011

As we approach our Centennial Day on June 16, 2011, IBM employees from the Philippines and across the globe have committed to make a positive impact by participating in a series of Centennial Service Activities running for the entire month of June. For Cebu, in partnership with the Philippine Business forSocial Progress (PBSP) Visayas Regional Office, we chose an activity focused on preserving the environment for the next generation.

So I better pack my stuff because I'll be busy for the weekend! Have a great day!

Last Saturday, my friends and I went to Papa Kit's Marina and Fishing Lagoon for a visit and also want to try what is in the said place. I was able to speak with their General Manager, Mr. Demosthenes Inso, and found out that Papa Kit's only started a few months back on September. Check their Facebook Page here.

I've heard lots of rumors of this newly found entertainment destination in Cebu and that's why we have decided to pay a little visit to the said place.

Before we went inside, we paid the Php 100.00 entrance fee (4 person * 100 = Php 400.00). The Entrance Fee is consumable by the way. We went directly to their restaurant and start ordering. Check the link for the Food at Papa Kit's.

After our very sumptuous and affordable lunch, we went to the Zipline area where we paid Php 200.00 each. This will be 2 way trip (back and forth). The line was quite long so there was enough time for us to digest all the food that we took during lunch. We also tried their fresh butong which was very refreshing!

See the following videos below for our Ziplining Experience at Papa Kit's Liloan Cebu.

Ziplining at Papa Kit's Liloan Cebu

Summary:

It was indeed fun and worthwhile. Papa Kit's is rapidly getting the attention of the local and it will not take a while for them to have massive foreign visitors. Well in fact, there are foreign people visiting the place already. Because of this, they better make sure that they improve their customer service.

The list below are some things I have noticed that need customer service improvement:

• The lady in the front desk when you get inside the gate. They might want to consider looking for a person that is welcoming and who knows how to entertain tourists and customers.
• The waiting time of your food after you've ordered.
• The restaurant would be even better with ceiling fans (ventilation system).
• A cleaner and well washed utensils would definitely give me a very relaxing feeling while eating.
• A designated point person would be really great to each of their services so that the customers will have an idea who to ask for example the 'Horse Back Riding'. I would really love to try it; however, I don't know who to ask.
• The location of each spots are quite far from each other. They might want to consider a transportation service like a 'gareta' or 'kalesa' to make the scene more like a farm or an hacienda.

These are just some of the concerns I got from my friends and with my personal insight. I hope the management will take this as a constructive criticism or suggestions...and I know for a fact that the management has their own plan on how to make Papa Kit's even better so let's just wait and see for the innovation shall we?

My officemates and I will be going back to the said place a week after Holy Week...enough time to see some improvement on the said newly found tourist destination.

In addition, before I end this entry I would like to share with you one of the best sunset I've seen in my life that I took at Papa Kit's and since I'm not a good photographer, my apologies.

Marco first saw the scene and has a better photo of this here.

Until the next time we meet...

Protecting Mother Earth Starts From Within

Before we were born, technology has been innovating for everyone's convenience. We got used to seeing our parents, which we consider as our role model, using technology and some other tools to help us with our daily living.

Today, technological advancement has reached its greater peak of being an alternative tool. In the near future, it is indubitably possible for robots to do our daily obligation in life which we have seen in other countries...and they keep on testing and improving these technologies.

However, what we think that will make our lives easier actually slowly kills our Mother Earth and soon us.

These photos below gives us the pleasure of fulfillment and satisfaction; however, these also produces Greenhouse Gas or what we call 'Carbon Footprints'. Because of this, Global Warming has been a very big concern in the society. Weather has been unstable every now and then...

French Fries

Candle

Alcohol

There are a lot more things that leads to Global Warming such as vehicles, air conditions, electric fans, lights and those gadgets and technologies that we think is very essential and a necessity to us. I would assume that it will not be very easy for us not to contribute Carbon Footprints, but I guess the best question now is how do we minimize committing this mistake and help the environment.

I believe that living life with basic and simple necessity is the key to help our environment. No wants. No luxuries. Idealistic it may seem but being simple and knowing what you really need in life is the key!

Now, it's up to you on how you make your life fulfilling without affecting our Mother Earth. How can you protect your Mother Earth?

The Making of Calyx Center at IT Park

I can't wait for this building to open! I've read a lot of good things about this building and I'm super excited to experience and see the result of their goals objectives. Check their site here.

You can also check their Life Essentials site which guides people to a healthy and green life. You may also like their Facebook Page. Let's see the progress of this building and most especially the final result of the building! I bet this is one of the best architectural design here in Cebu!

Change Revolution: A Rockin’ Event to Make a Difference

Below is the Official Press Release of the said event:

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Cebu City, Philippines—August 26, 2010—Global Xchange Team 107 in partnership with The Outpost Restobar and with the support of Not Yours Production presents Change Revolution: A Rockin’ Event to Make a Difference on the Friday, 3rd of September, 8:00 p.m.

Global Xchange (GX), an initiative run in partnership between the British Council and VSO Bahaginan, is a volunteer exchange program which gives young people from the Philippines and UK a chance to work together to develop and share valuable skills to make a practical contribution where it is needed in local communities.

Now on their second phase in Cebu, the team has undertaken several initiatives for the benefit of the community: mangrove planting, 1GOAL football clinic, and ocean clean up, to name a few.

The concert, which will feature: Skankin’ Brews, Hastang, Melophobic, Nyor, and Xchange Sound is an effort by the team to raise funds for VSO Bahaginan which sends Filipino professionals abroad to work as volunteers in various fields.

The night is not just about music; it’s about having fun and giving for a cause. Exciting stuff will be auctioned and the profit will go directly to the organization.

It is also a treat for everyone, as the team members themselves will staff the entire evening. A special GX cocktail will also be available, limited only for the event.

A night to remember, this event will rock Cebu—creating change through music and rhythm.

For more information about Global Xchange visit: http://www.thebutterflyeffectproject.com

Facebook Event Page: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=148890965129001

Global Xchange is thanking the following sponsors: San Miguel Corporations, The Bar Vodka, Fruit Magic, Jehzlau Concepts, GVSP, and Fairtrade Cebu.

EarthDance Cebu 2010 Festival at Family Park

I have been an environmentalist since College where I was actively participating organizations like RYLF (Renaissance Youth Leaders Forum), Solar Generation, Stand Up! Speak Out!, National MDG Summit and Pin Wheel for Peace where they help minimize Global Warming and promote a greener society. You can actually see the logos at the sidebar.

Now, that I am already residing in Cebu, I will continue and promote a greener place to everyone...because EarthDance 2010 will be in Cebu!

Below is the Official Press Release:

Cebu will be among the over 500 venues worldwide for this year's global synchronized festival for peace and the environment, the EarthDance 2010, on September 18-19 at the Family Park in Talamban, Cebu City.

This momentous event, aligned with the International Day of Peace, will be held simultaneously in 80 countries. In Manila, it will be held at the Bantayog ng Mga Bayani Memorial Center.

Conceived in 1996 with a vision to unite the whole world in peace through the universal platform of culture, art, dance and music, EarthDance is now the largest global synchronized music and peace event in the world.

The main highlight in EarthDance 2010 is the link-up of thousands of people around the world participating in a synchronized Prayer for Peace on Sunday the 19th at 7:00 am.

People from all walks of life are invited to the 2 days EarthDance Festival which this year bears the theme: "Embracing All Traditions".

EarthDance Cebu 2010 Festival

EarthDance Cebu 2010 seeks to harmonize with this global platform to dissolve walls of separation and begin healing the spirit of the land.

Cebu's most talented musicians and artists have been invited to perform in this gathering for peace which will be aired live on electronic billboards in Cebu and online via www.earthdance.tv.

Activities lined up for this 32-hour experience include:

• Interfaith Prayers
• Interactive Art Installations
• Drumming Circle
• Traditional Indigenous Healing Therapies
• Fire Dancing
• Tai Chi
• Yoga
• Children's Creative Space
• Great Meditation Circle
• Art Gallery
• Eco-Wellness Workshops

There will also be peace and unity blessings by indigenous spiritual leaders, live DJs, world music performances and ethnic orchestra, healing workshops, rocket stove exhibit, composting and permaculture demonstrations, recyclable materials depot, all-day green market, natural body products to sample, yummy wholesome food and drinks, and much, much more.

The 2 days event is free of charge during the day on Saturday and Sunday. Ticket for the Dance Party on Saturday night are pegged at Php 75.00 (Php 50.00 for students) and available at Kukuk's Nest in Lahug and the CESDEV (Community Extension Services and Development) office at the University of Cebu main campus among other outlets.

EarthDance Cebu 2010 is held in partnership with the Cebu City Council, UC (University of Cebu) and Bigfoot Studios.

Ayala - Family Park Bicycle Rally

A bike rally starting from Ayala Center up to Family Park is also being cooked up as a prelude to the festivities.

"We are currently organizing for an electric jeepney, or E-Jeepney, in which Mayor Mike Rama can lead the bicycle rally from Ayala to Family Park, where the mayor will officially open the event," says, EarthDance Festival Director, Geoff 'JahFe' Holland.

The Green Guide to Cebu as well as the new Environmental Alliance in Cebu will be both officially launched during the EarthDance Festival.

EarthDance Cebu 2010 is part of a month-long celebration of peace and the environment, which includes an Interfaith Symposium on Peace on September 10 and a Peace Parade and Peace Festival at the Cebu Coliseum on September 25.

Guadalupe River Clean-Up

Aside from celebrating Mother Earth and World Peace, organizers and participants of EarthDance Cebu 2010 will go to Barangay Sapangdako on September 11 together with students from UC (University of Cebu) and several volunteers to help clean up the head of Guadalupe River and sort out the garbage for recycling.

Organizers, spearheaded by Sister Sandra from UC-CESDEV, plan a long-term clean-up effort for the river which includes tree planting. Interested to join in this sanitation drive may ring JahFe at 09172767812.

EarthDance Cebu 2010 is expected to draw a large crowd of peace-loving and environment-conscious Cebuanos as it promises 2 days of fun, music, art, culture, dance, ceremonies and green awareness to nurture the earth, mind, body and spirit.

"We will see the largest gathering of environment, community development, sustainable technology, organic farming and other NGOs together with government agencies and green business that Cebu City has ever seen," JahFe said.

Proceeds of EarthDance Cebu 2010 Festival will go to the Cebu City Task Force on Street Children and the BSAW (Barangay Sapangdako Association of Women) for the rehabilitationof the Guadalupe River.

SM ECO BAG Official Launching in Cebu

SM Cebu has just officially launched their newly conceptualized SM ECO BAGs today!It was commonly called as GREEN BAGs which can be bought at the Super Market. Now, they have released 4 designs for the SM Eco Bag signifying the 4 elements: air, earth, fire and water.

I will not keep you waiting any longer…here are the ECO BAGs:

1. Flow – represents the element of Water
2. Spark – represents the element of Fire
3. Renew – represents the element of Earth
4. Breathe – represents the element of Air

This project is for a cause to help our Mother Nature! Every time you buy an Eco Bag, you can save Mother Nature and yourself from danger. I’m pretty sure it’s not going to burn neither your pockets nor your wallets. So buy your own SM Eco Bag now! Live in a World that is Green and Clean!

Photos by Miong

A Letter Written In 2070

watch...and reminisce...