REVIEW: 16GB Sony Micro Vault, the USB on the Go

As we are about to welcome 2015 with a bang, I'm pretty sure there are a lot of you like me who are already on the process of managing your digital files to make space for the coming new year. Aside from burning your files on some DVDs or transferring it to you portable hard drives, you'll still need some items that would make your work even easier. Thank goodness, I received a sweet gift this Christmas - the Sony Micro Vault USB On-the-Go.

Small may it be, it's 16 GB capacity is just enough to help you transfer files from one PC or laptop to another or to your smart phones. Come and check out my review on this 2-in-1 16 GB Sony USB Flash Drive Micro Vault.

Basically new in the Philippine market, this item is perfect for those who are always on the go. If you are a photographer like me who uses different gadgets at a time to upload pictures on your laptop and smartphones, this is a great help for you since this Micro Vault is perfect for Android smart phones and tablet.

​Acer Wins ‘Best Laptop Vendor 2014’ at Dabs.com Diamond Awards in UK

The year 2014 has been a very fruitful year for Acer. No only they managed to increase their sales, Acer was also acknowledge in terms of awards from the industry. And with this, one of the recently acquired awards and citations of Acer is the Diamond Award  from Dabs.com, and the title of 'Best Laptop Vendor 2014' in the United Kingdom.

Considered as one of the UK's largest online electronics retailers and has been conducting the Diamond Award program since 2008, Dabs.com recently awarded the Diamond Award to Acer for producing high quality personal computers/laptops suited for the needs of the consumer.

Based on consumer voting, this achievement is a significant win for Acer as it reflects the brand’s high regard among British consumers.

Christmas with Disney's Princesses

Christmas in the Philippines is always special, no matter how much or how less we have, we, Filipinos, always find a reason to celebrate this blessed day. And this year, I was blessed to see and experience the show I've been dying to see for  a very long time - the Disney On Ice.

Together with my sister and her daughter, we welcomed the blessed day with some joy and magic in our mind as we witnessed Snow White and her 7 dwarfs, Cinderella and her Prince Charming, and Rapunzel and her magical hair at Smart-Araneta Coliseum for the Disney On Ice's Dare to Dream.

Me and my niece Elaisha

Being a fan of Walt Disney's fairy tales and having a niece who is starting to appreciate stories and different fictional characters, seeing them in person, alive and sliding on the man-made ice inside the coliseum is such a wonderful feeling and experience every kids and kids-at-heart should feel.

Jack Daniel's lights up 1st Holiday Barrel Tree in Asia!

"It's not what's under the tree that matters most, it's who's around it."

- Jack Daniel's

For the first time in Asia, 82 Jack Daniel's whiskey barrels (almost 30 feet tall) were put up to create a Christmas Tree in preparation for the upcoming holidays - Christmas is really here!

Live at the Fuente Circle of Eastwood, Libis, Quezon City, Jack Daniel's Philippine Brand Manager Mr. Gabriel Fajardo and Brown Forman Corporation Philippine Market Manager Mr. Anthony Ramirez led the tree-lighting ceremony of the first Holiday Barrel Tree in Asia.

'Tis the Wonderful World of Sanrio at SM Mall of Asia!

On it's 7th year, the annual SM Mall of Asia Grand Festival of Lights spreads holiday cheer by bringing one of the world's most loved cats (or little girl, as they say). Get ready to fall in love this Christmas with the Sanrio World!

Hello Kitty and her friends are ready to spread more holiday cheers at the SM Mall of Asia for Grand Festival of Lights from November 29 to December 25. Joined by Tuxedo Sam, Keroppi, and My Melody, Christmas at SM Mall of Asia is sure to be merry and colorful for fans of any age. 

The Grand Festival of Lights motorcade will be held every Saturday starting on November 29, until Christmas day. The 12 colorful Sanrio mascot floats, which depict dazzling Christmas celebrations around the world, is also accompanied by a parade of mascots, dancers and performers to add to the fun!

Artist Olivia d’Aboville's Eco-Friendly Artworks at SM Aura

Christmas is all about caring. It’s that time of year when people go out of their way to please those who they love the most. For famed textile artist Olivia d’Aboville, there is nothing nobler than caring not just for loved ones, but for the one thing that nurtures us the most, in more ways than you can imagine. Olivia believes that this Christmas, it’s time to care for something most of us often neglect: the environment.

Olivia d’Aboville

Olivia is a staunch supporter of environmental efforts. A young French-Filipino artist based in Manila, Olivia specializes in tapestry and textile structures, adapting various techniques to create her own woven forms. Even when she was still a design student in Paris, recycling had already been a major component, if not an influence, on her pieces.

UNIQLO brings back +J Collection

Just as we are about to experience one of the longest holiday breaks we, Filipinos, would ever have, UNIQLO Philippines excitedly shares an exclusive Holiday offer of luxury collaboration line +J.

Friends and families are surely excited to welcome the most wonderful time of the year with this timeless yet forward-looking style and affordable quality that are being sold in special prices December 17 to 31 on UNIQLO SM Megamall, SM Aura and Glorietta 5.

As a response to overwhelming customer demand, UNIQLO Philippines shares the best of +J collection including items such as the classic man’s button-down shirt, an indispensable building block for any wardrobe.

The Folded & Hung - Star Wars Collection

This Holiday Season, one of the country's leading retail brand is bring the past back with much more excitement and anticipation as they collaborate with one of the world's most-loved sci-fi story. Folded & Hung, a brand that has been known as an edgy and sexy brand, is ready to paint the fashion scene this Holiday with our most loved characters and scene from Star Wars.

As they continue to take pride their "always a head of what other fashion retail brands are doing" idea, Folded & Hung  keeps on mastering the art of staying fresh, dynamic and relevant through the multitude of trends and styles in the fashion industry. And this year, aside from being awarded by The Walt Disney Company as the Licensee of the Year, they are also bringing to the country's fashion scene Darth Vader,  Storm Troopers, Yoda, Luke Skywalker, R2d2, C3PO and more!

As they launch their Star Wars Collection last December 6 at the MegaFashion Hall, SM Megamall, Folded & Hung also named their newest ambassadors, starting Maggie Wilson, Richard Juan, Sandor Simon, Paolo Santiago, and bloggers David Guison, Camille Co, Dani Baretto, and Czarina Isabella. 

A Night of Gratitude with Cherry Mobile

A night of glitz and glam filled with colors of red, white and blue - and some black, Cherry Mobile's annual celebration of gratitude was celebrated at La Pavilion, Pasay City.

Dubbed as "A Captain's Ball," the night was filled with excitement, fun and surprises together with the fun hosting of by Cherry Mobile's digital ambassador Victor Basa and Phoemela Barranda. This is Cherry Mobile's way of saying thanks not only to their millions of followers and supporters, but also to their dealers who never fail to push their limits to achieve their annual goal.

 Victor Basa and Phoemela Barranda

And so, this year, Cherry Mobile awarded not one but 10 of their outstanding dealers for the year 2014.

Aboitiz Foundation and WeatherPhilippines partner for #WeatherWiser

If there's one beautiful thing that Super Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda, local name) has thought us, it's the idea of thinking ahead of weather. For a country that serves a welcoming committee to typhoons, it is very important for us to be always prepared and ahead of what might happen to our people, to our properties to our nation. 

Mr. David Michael Padua

Senior Typhoon Specialist, MeteoGroup

Hence, this year, through the generous partnership of Aboitiz Foundation and MeteoGroup's WeatherPhilippines, and with some more help from UnionBank, International Container Services, Inc., Nickel Asia Corp., Vista Land, SM, LBC, and Globe Telecoms, a stronger and more prepared country is about to see by the world through #WeatherWiser.

"By deploying automated weather stations (AWS) in remote areas in the country, we were able to penetrate the country's most vulnerable areas and elicit actionable preparations by distilling technical weather forecasting terms into something they can fully grasp," shared Celso Caballero III, General Manager of WeatherPhilippines Foundation (WPF).

Fashionable Circus at Giordano's 25th Anniversary Party

Circus is one place that never fails to amaze me. - amazing stunts, wonderful talents and oh-so-lovely costumes! No wonder, on its 25th anniversary, one of the countries stable and well-loved brand, Giordano, has chosen this theme to celebrate with their patrons.

Held last November 22 at the Eastwood Mall Open Park, Giordano let their guests played classic circus games such as Basket Toss, Something Fishy, Tumble Me and Ring O’ Bottle to co-celebrate  the brand's milestone - its 25th year in the Philippines. Guests got to enjoy exclusive prizes from Giordano on those games, as well as other activities on-the-ground including fortune-telling and mechanical bull riding, which are reminiscent of the circuses of old.

Meanwhile, clowns, mimes, stilt walkers, magicians, lion man, uni-cyclists, and many more, were scattered all over the mall to add excitement and fun to the most awaited event of the night - the fashion show.

Lazada's Online Revolution is back this 12.12!

After its successful Online Revolution 11.11, Lazada.com.ph is back and ready to stage the biggest online shopping extravaganza this December 12. Staring at 12:00 a.m. of December 12, Night owls can log on to checkout the jaw-dropping discounts, mind-blowing deals, and incredible brand partnerships all happening in one day.

Aside from that, on the early hours of Online Revolution 12.12, there will be special night promotions that are only available between 12 a.m. and 8 a.m. while shoppers can take advantage of killer deals and unbeatable hourly flash sales from 8 a.m. to 11.59 p.m.!

Give your money more value by getting mobiles, tablets, gadgets, appliances, fashion, household goods, toys, and sports equipment at almost 80% discount.

“We kicked off the month-long Online Revolution sale in November, but the best is yet to come. With 24 hours of unbeatable deals on 12 December, consumers are in for an unforgettable shopping experience,” shares Inanc Balci, Co-Founder and CEO of Lazada Philippines.

All-new Wattpad Presents from TV5

Since its launch last September, TV5's Wattpad Presents has been creating a buzz not just because of presenting unique stories and lovely characters, but also by having celebrities from three different networks that are giving life to each character - making it a trending topic every single night an episode is aired.

But I know that there's a lot more about this show why it is being talked about online and offline.

Held at Max's Restaurant in Makati, I was joined by a number of entertainment writers and bloggers who are all excited to meet the new casts that will give life to the new stories of TV5's hottest show, the Wattpad Presents. From the recently concluded "Mr. Popular Meets Nobody," Mark Neumann, Shaira Mae Dela Cruz, Kapuso star Yassi Pressman and Kapamilya star Diego Loygaza to the upcoming shows "His Secretary," which stars Bianca King and John James Uy; "Just for a While," which stars Eula Cabellero and Martin Escudero; and "Game of Love," which stars Kean Cipriano, Chanel Morales, Nicole Estrada and Kapuso start Phytos Ramirez, Wattpad Presents promises more kilig moments and amazing new stories that are genuinely created by the young and creative Wattpad authors.

Dress Your Kids Up this Holidays with SM Kids Fashion

If there's one more thing I'm excited about the forthcoming Holidays, it will be playing role of a fashionista uncle who helps his nieces choose the right clothes for them and make them feel good and comfortable. What better way to spend a day shopping with kids who loves flowers, rainbows and colors than to be inside SM Store and shop for the most fitting clothes this season.

From their Summer Collection, which really inspired me to push my nieces to look good and confident, this season, SM Kids is leveling up their style and look with the wide-ranging Holiday Collection. And impressing everyone, SM Kids brings dresses for girls that are soaked in red, pink, blue and even in the softness of pastels, and outfits for boys that are edgy and comfortable at the same time.

This year's holiday collection consist of cropped shirts, sketter skirts and dresses that can give one's little princess that feminine, casual look for little princesses and tweeners, while visually appealing tees, cardigans, hoodies, button downs and blazers are what made the boys' collection of.

Get the latest ZTE phones from Lazada.com.ph!

Aside from being the Christmas months, it seems that "ber" months is also the months for new gadgets. And at Lazada.com.ph, ZET's latest contribution to gadget craze are Blade Vec 4G, Blade Vec Pro, and the Nubia Z5 S Mini.

Perfect to amp up you smartphone experience, these latest smartphones from ZTE has more that what it looks like. And together with the Philippines’ Biggest Online Shopping Mall – www.lazada.com.ph, ZTE is offering a trifecta of superior product quality, performance, and sleek design – all built to whet your tech appetites.

Should you wish to check the latest deals and offers on these exciting models from ZTE, simply log on to www.lazada.com.ph/ZTE

AyosDito launches “SportsKoAyosDito” with Drew Arellano

In a city where traffic system is as crazy as hell, bicycle is becoming not just a trend but an option for everyone to try, whether you have a car or you don't. And it seems that an online shop is noticing it earlier than the others, hence they are promoting not just the convenience that a bicycle can give, but also the health benefits that it can share.

Last November 10, AyosDito officially named its latest ambassador, the sports, fitness and travel enthusiast, Mr. Drew Arellano. And together with him, is a brand new campaign that aims to help beginners pursue and level-up their passion for sports, and at the same time, promote hassle-free, safe online selling and buying, the "#SportsKoAyosDito."

Drew was presented to the media with triathlon coach Miguel Lopez, who, together with Drew, will train selected triathlon beginners - Jeff Calayag and Maridol Yabut - to gear up and train for their first triathlon competition. And since triathlon involves running, swimming and biking, they assisted the two in getting their own bicycles too.

The Hassle-Free Nappies

In times like Christmas, the least that you wanna experience as parents is having a child that will grab everyone's attention at the mall or in a gathering because they are comfortable with their diapers. As an uncle to an almost 2-year old baby girl, I have an idea how active they are and how crazy it would be to have babies who are not comfortable with their diapers.

SRP / piece of Huggies Dry Pants Large 36s at P8.52

But worry no more, with the new Huggies Dry Pants, there is now a faster, more convenient and hassle-free way to change diapers - one that is easier and more comfortable for your baby!

Taking pride of its soft, all-around elastic waistband Huggies Dry Pants makes diaper changing as easy as 1, 2, 3: left foot in, right foot in, and pull up! Three simple steps that make the dreaded diaper changing a fun and playful experience – Step, Step, Up! 

Offering that "saktong fit" and up to 10-hour dryness, babies no longer need to be interrupted during their playtime to be laid down uncomfortably as moms change their diapers.

Havaianas collaborates with Filipino Designer Francis Libiran

For the very first time, the country's most loved Brazilian flip-flops has finally touch-base with our very own talents as this December, Havaianas is set share its limited edition Francis Libiran-Havaianas Collection.

This year, one of the country's top designers - also, one of the country's pride - has been tapped by global brand Havaianas for a new collection that puts the Philippine artist firmly in the pantheon of international designers, brands and personalities, who have collaborated with the iconic footwear company for its sought-after limited edition releases.

Island pair 

"I personally have to have my Havaianas every summer, so when they told me about the project, I was really excited. They’re number one in the world, so to have your name on Havaianas is something," says Francis Libiran.

"Right after that meeting, I couldn't sleep," he added.

Ready to Share 'Sari-Saring Happiness

I've been attending numerous Coca-Cola events since I started blogging for brands, and during those times, they never fail to give me the very essence of happiness - the one thing that they've been advocating for years now. And on this year's Christmas celebration, Coca-Cola Philippines is taking their advocacy on a different level, a "Sari-Saring" level.

Held last November 8 in Signal, Taguig City, and in different areas around the nation, such as in downtown Bacolod, all the way to Tacloban, Pampanga, Batangas, and Davao, Coca-Cola celebrated the coming of Christmas in Sari-Saring Happiness Day, with the participation of more than 400,000 stores owned by women entrepreneurs whose businesses have been touched by country’s leading beverage brand. 

Hosted by Robi Domingo and Joyce Pring, our night was joined by Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano; Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Secretary-General Joel Villanueva; Commercial Unit Associate Coca-Cola FEMSA, Mr. Carlos Gonzales; and Regional Manager Coca-Cola FEMSA, Mr. Roden Cardeno, who were so thankful for the successful partnership that they have to bring Christmas to everyone.

Fiesta: A Celebration for Clean Toilet

“By watching the ‘Fiesta’ video and asking our friends to watch it, we are not only raising awareness for toilet appreciation and sanitation, more importantly, we are helping less privileged communities gain access to clean toilet facilities,” said Benjie Yap, Unilever Foods and Home Care Vice President.

On this year's Domex campaign towards clean toilet facilities, the brand produced a video that  shows how underprivileged Filipinos can welcome the “arrival” of clean toilet facilities in their communities. “The video aims to make people realize the value of a toilet which most of us, unfortunately, take for granted,” said Dennis Chua, Domex Brand Manager.

Aptly titled “Fiesta”, the Domex video, is available on Youtube. 

Global Art Philippines hosts 2014 Global Art International Competition

Today, November 15, watch out for the new Picassos, Da Vincis and Michaleangelos as the Asia'a top art school grabs everyone's attention as they gather their best students around the region to compete on the annual Global Art International Competition.

Hosting this year's competition is its Philippines branch, who is celebrating its 5th year anniversary this month. Global Art is a company founded in Malaysia in 1999 by Mr. Mahair Goh, and has taught over 500,000 young artists’ minds and hearts in 15 countries including Malaysia, Singapore, India, Sri Lanka, Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand, Australia, Vietnam, China, USA, Cambodia, Myanmar, Hong Kong and the Philippines. 

"Global Art is a unique breeding ground for children because they are taught not only how to copy a drawing but to create their own artwork, design and interpretation through different techniques," shared by Yenny Saw, Country Manager of Global Art Philippines.

BPO, Banking and Finance top 2014 Bonuses Report

In just a few days, you'll be seeing a lot of people with a huge smile on their faces, shopping like crazy and just being merry in time for the Holiday Season! You wanna know why? Well, I'm pretty sure that they already got their 13th month, 14 month or even 15 month and 16th month bonuses from their company. Yeah, lucky people! Hahaha!

But instead of feeling bad, let me share to you the latest report that Jobstreet.com has shared recently. In the said report, which is called the 2014 Bonuses Report, Banking and Finance, BPO/Call Center and Manufacturing placed high as the top industries that provide bonuses to their employees. 

With at least 4 months guaranteed bonuses on top of 13th month pay, the said industries were joined by Food and Beverage and Reals State.

ABS-CBN 2014 Christmas ID: Thank You Ang Babait Ninyo!

Sung the by “The Voice Kids” finalists Lyca, Darren, Juan Karlos, and Darlene and written by Robert Labayen, Lloyd Oliver Corpuz, Love Rose de Leon with music by Amber and Marcus Davis, this year's ABS-CBN's Christmas Station ID officially airs today spreading Christmas spirit with gratitude all over the world.

Created by ABS-CBN Creative Communications Management headed by Robert Labayen, Johnny Delos Santos, and Patrick de Leon.“Thank You Ang Babait Ninyo” station ID is directed by Paolo Ramos and Peewee Azarcon-Gonzales.

Get ready for the Lazada's Online Revolution 2014!

As the Season of Giving - and Shopping - is about to unfold, Lazada is preparing to take cyberspace by storm with the Online Revolution - the biggest sale of the year in Southeast Asia, set to rival Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Singles Day. Starting this November 11, the region's leading online retailer is offering shoppers a month of sales, discounts and promotions with all the best deals under one digital roof.

With the widest and grandest offering of products online, from mobiles, tablets and consumer electronics to fashion, household goods, toys, and sports equipment, Lazada is the ultimate one-stop shopping destination this season. Lazada also makes shopping effortless by providing a fast, intuitive and secure online shopping experience. Shoppers on-the-go have access to a best-in-class mobile shopping experience via apps and/or the mobile site. For added convenience and peace of mind, they are also offering the widest reach of delivery and cash-on-delivery service, so shoppers from all over Philippines can buy now and pay only on arrival.