2002 ARTICLES ON SUNSTAR CEBU

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/12/18/life/sti.e.college.marks.first.year.launches.new.logo.html
Wednesday, December 18, 2002
STI E-College marks first year, launches new logo
By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

STI E-College recently celebrated its first anniversary at the open garden of Cebu Grand Hotel.

Simultaneous to it was the launching of the institution’s new logo – from E-College to STI E-College.

“The past year was a very fruitful one. We have established tie-ups with global companies like the Pan Pacific Training in Australia, which offers Internet skills. We have also established branches in Bangladesh and have prospects in Indonesia,” STI E-College president Roger Posadas said.

“For the coming year, we are diversifying into education as we’ll offer BSED major in computer science. We will also start offering an 18-unit program, teach the Japanese language, and have the Penta Tutor CDs available for all our learners,” Posadas added.

STI E-College is the exclusive franchise holder of the Penta Tutor computer-based training in Utah. It holds 200 CDs.
Posadas said the school is positioning itself to be a place where one earns a degree that can provide an opportunity to work abroad.

The new logo is part of the reorganization. Our vision is to become the leader in e-learning in the country,” he said.
STI has more than 100 campuses nationwide. STI E-College has three branches: in Baguio, in Carmona, Cavite and in Lahug, Cebu city.

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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/12/13/life/olympus.marketing.introduces.newest.unique.ice.replacement.html
Friday, December 13, 2002

Olympus Marketing introduces newest, unique ice replacement

By Rudynah Entera

“It can make food and drinks stay cold seven times longer than ice,” Nick Wu of Olympus Marketing said of the unique technology and newest product his company distributes, the Techni Ice Chillerz.

Wu said that instead of using wet and dry ice, one may utilize Techni Ice Chillerz as a better replacement for chilling or freezing any food and drinks.

The product comes in a pack divided into 24 shells or cubes containing a powder-like substance which when soaked in water expands in size and becomes frozen when placed in the refrigerator for 12 hours.

“When Techni Ice is frozen, it can be cut to size and wrapped around the food you want to make cold. After its first usage, it can be used again and again and is extremely a four-ply construction. No soggy food. It keeps food chilled and is not wet,” Wu said.

The product is also ideal as a hot and cold pack for injuries, he added. For cold use, the company said Techni Ice is very helpful during campings, picnics, outdoors, golf, boating, sports, injuries, school luncheons, first aid, and in bringing frozen food home from the supermarket.

For hot use, it is ideal for massage, therapeutic purposes and keeping food hot. Wu added that for commercial markets, Techni Ice is very beneficial.

“Basically it is a good replacement of dry ice and wet ice. It is also effective in transporting perishables like meat, fish, fruits and vegetables over long distances, where ice would normally melt. It is good to be used in hospitals, veterinary centers and sports clubs as well,” he said.

Great business opportunity
A great business opportunity awaits anybody or any organization interested in becoming a distributor of Techni Ice Chillerz, Olympus Marketing announced.

The company said the distribution of the product promises high-profit margins, easy and cost-efficient storage and transport to the end-user, flexibility to custom print and marketing support.
Techni Ice is unique with easy-to-demonstrate benefits in both consumer and commercial markets.

Techni Ice Australia (TIA)
Olympus Marketing said Techni Ice has grown strongly in Australia since it was established in 1984. The company said it has been available to revolutionize and dominate the Australian ice replacement market.

Following a recent decision to expose its new technology, the Techni Ice HDR product, it has experienced strong demand in many countries including the USA and United Kingdom. TIA’s success is driven by constant product innovation and a commitment to meet the consumer and commercial markets’ changing needs. For inquiries, one may call 346-1818.

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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/12/11/life/hap.japs.1st.fashion.cum.sculpture.fusion.show.slated.in.ayala.dec..14.html
Wednesday, December 11, 2002
Hap Japs’ 1st fashion-cum-sculpture fusion show slated in Ayala, Dec. 14

By Rudynah D. Entera

For the first time in Cebu, a fully stylized fusion of fashion and sculpture art will take place at 10 p.m. on Dec. 14 at Hap Japs restaurant located at the Ayala Entertainment Center. This was announced by Angel Selma, proprietress of Hap Japs and organizer of the show dubbed “Elements of Fusion: the fashion, the art, the party.”

The show will feature the creations of one of Cebu’s top designers, Dino Lloren, and the artistic abilities of artist Chevee Farrarons. Lloren will showcase oriental designs and the rest of the world as accented with Western or Indian accessories. Farrarons will do the stylized expression interpreted by models.

There will be three separate stages that will be put up within the area close to Hap Japs,” said Julius Quipot of Gap Mobile, an events and sounds group. He added that the show’s concept of having three separate stages is patterned after the “Puppet Show.”

Ten models will be body-painted by Chevee. Well, 95% of the thing is sculptured already while 5% will be done live,” Quipot said. If this show works, then we’re doing a bigger version in January,” he added.

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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/11/29/life/lorins.adding.taste.to.food..html
Friday, November 29, 2002

Lorins: adding taste to food

By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

Visayan housewives have always loved to use food enhancers and dips like patis, bagoong, sukang paombong, gata and soy sauce for more delicious and creative cooking.

This consciousness has given inspiration to Lorenzana Food Corp. (LFC)—the maker and exporter of Lorins Pinoy sauces na pangluto at sawsawan—to penetrate the Cebuano market at a closer and more convenient grasp.

“We are the pioneers of patis and bagoong since we started in Navotas in 1908. From Navotas, we came here barely a few months ago to put up an office in Mandaue so that we can deal closely with our partners and the Visayan-cooking enthusiasts. We simply brought this peculiar taste here!” says LFC president George Lorenzana.

“Our products have been available in various supermarkets for the past few years though,” he clarifies. Whether you are cooking at home or in your bistro business, the most exciting and crucial part of it is when you pour some salt, sauce or vinegar on the food you are preparing.

Two restaurants in Cebu have been using Lorins bagoong. These are Laguna Garden Café and Café Laguna, both owned by Julita Urbina.

It must be the formulation, affordability and sanitation that have kept Lorins captive among food lovers. But there is more to these – purity and naturalness of the product sources. “We’ve been using Lorins bagoong Balayan, bagoong na isda at bagoong Lorenzana for five years now. Also, we’ve just started using its suka and patis. Iba talaga ang kanilang lasa! Peculiar, I should say,” says Urbina, who is opening doors for franchising (in Makati, Cagayan, Davao and in any place outside Cebu) of her two existing restaurants. She also hopes to put up a Thai restaurant in the city. While Café Laguna and Laguna Garden Cafe are uniquely identified for their mouth-watering puto bumbong, Lorenzana gets a Pinoy trademark for being a manufacturer of naturally sourced, affordable and distinctively delicious sauce, bagoong patis and the like.

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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/11/13/life/junrex.holds.jubilee.sale.trip.to.discounts.promo.html
Wednesday, November 13, 2002

Junrex holds jubilee sale, 'trip to discounts' promo

By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

“This is our yearend event, the biggest and the grandest sale of the year,” said Junrex Cellphones internal sales manager Maharlika C. Mar of “Junrex-wide Supersale”, which runs until Nov. 30.

“Accessories are sold as low as P10 while GPRS phones are offered at a P500 discount. An unbeatable price is given on prepaid cards and units,” Mar said.

She added, “We also offer a 20 percent discount on repair services and free phone check-up and cleaning.”
Junrex is also tying up with SuperCat in a promo dubbed “Trip to Discounts”, which also ends on Nov. 30. “When customers present an official Junrex receipt for a minimum purchase of P2,000 to any SuperCat outlet or terminal, they can avail themselves of a 20 percent discount on tickets to any destination. "And when you present a Supercat ticket to our Junrex shop, you may obtain a 20 percent discount on cellphone accessories, 8 percent on prepaid cards and special discounts on prepaid kits,” Mar explained.

Junrex marketing officer Joy Encallado said the promo is very timely as Christmas is nearing. Junrex Cellphones is now one of the top five companies - fourth in the country and first in the Visayas excelling in terms of market share. It will open another branch in SM-Cagayan on Dec. 11.

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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/11/04/life/supercat.makes.travelling.easier.with.viajero.pass..html
Monday, November 04, 2002

Supercat makes travelling easier with ‘viajero pass’
By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

SUPERCAT Fast Ferry Corp. (SFFC) is now offering an open-dated ticket called Super viajero pass (SVP) making it easier for passengers to travel.

Cebu Ferries AVP for operations Edgar Nicolas said SVP is a commuter’s pass which allows one to book a trip through phone or text.

“The pass, which comes in a booklet composed of 10 one-way tickets at a discounted rate, will definitely give our passengers optimum value for time, money and greater flexibility and convenience on their traveling needs. There is no need to go to any of our outlets anymore,” he said.

Nicolas added that travel agencies, hotels, resorts, pension houses, corporations, and social and civic groups may avail themselves of the pass.

SVP holders are entitled to 20 kilograms of baggage allowance and are protected from fare increase within the pass’ validity date.

“We believe that the market is so receptive. Fast Ferry is still the future!” Nicolas said. Destinations that are covered in SVP are: Cebu to Ormoc, Tagbilaran and Dumaguete, respectively, and vice versa; Bacolod to Iloilo and vice versa; and Batangas to Calapan and vice versa. Cebu Ferries is currently operating five boats; it has a market share of 65%.
For reservations and inquiries, one may call 232-4511 local 632.

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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/11/08/life/filipina.european.performers.take.centerstage.in.music.of.the.night..html
Friday, November 08, 2002

Filipina, European performers take centerstage in ‘Music of the Night’
By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

“We are so proud and excited to bring in a Filipina talent along with some European musicians in a two-night international Broadway concert here in Cebu,” said SM City Cebu’s marketing officer Annalee Duran Flores in a press conference held last Oct. 30 in preparation for an upcoming musical performance.

Dubbed “Music of the Night,” the event will be held on Nov. 10 and 11.

For the first time in Cebu, Leah delos Santos, an outstanding young Filipina stage actress who played Miss Saigon in Germany, will be performing with one of Europe’s superstars, Yngve Gasoy Romdal.
To join them are seasoned European Broadway performers Jon Diven, Stefan Obermann, Andreas Hartwig and Daniel Fleishmann.

Born in Manila, Delos Santos started out as a young girl in school plays who later developed her talent by joining various theater productions. In Guam, director Benjie Diola, who is also directing “Music of the Night,” immediately tapped her acting potential by giving her a role in most of his productions.

Since then, she has catapulted herself after Diola prodded her to audition for the Miss Saigon production in Germany.
Romdal is a Norwegian thespian whose impressive performances started in the Scandinavian countries of Norway and Sweden. His versatility and the life he brings to all his performances have brought him to different parts of the world — in London (at the Royal Albert Hall), Austria, Germany and even Tokyo.

Delos Santos, Romdal and the four musicians will perform Broadway hits from Miss Saigon, Phantom of the Opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, Rent, Once On This Island, King and I, among others. “This past February, I came here as a guest of Mariquita Salimbangon-Yeung. It’s an amazing thing for me to perform in a grand concert for the first time in the Philippines,” revealed delos Santos, also admitting that two of her favorite Filipino songs are “Dahil sa Iyo” and “Pangako”. “It’s always exciting to be in a music team. We are here to share our talents and our happiness with you. We hope you can join us on any of the nights or even during the two nights,” Romdal said. The four musicians said it is their first time to be in Cebu, adding that they have a good impression of the people. “We could really see and feel how warm Filipinos are. From the airport to the hotel, we saw people smiling and greeting us warmly. Now, I can confirm how hospitable and nice Filipinos are,” said one of the musicians.

“Music of the Night” will also have its stint in Cagayan on Nov. 9.

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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/10/21/0017105lif.html
October 21, 2002
Porkchop Duo = humor, sensibility
By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

Their mere presence on stage starts the audience beaming. And when they deliver jokes, voice-blending some songs, everybody begins to laugh exuberantly—endlessly.

Renato P. Gomez a.k.a. “Porky” and Romeo G. Vargas a.k.a. “Choppy” or the Porkchop Duo came to Casino Mactan at the Waterfront Airport Hotel last month for an evening of pure fun and entertainment. For 21 long years as Porkchop Duo and 23 years as friends, they have been touching people’s lives through stand-up comedy performances and song renditions not only in the Philippines but also throughout the world. The duo pioneered stand-up comedy in the country, to include Tatlong Itlog and Tatlong Pinoy back then.

Born and raised in Tondo, Manila, Porky and Choppy have been to 34 countries for special invitations and performances. But never did they allow such an achievement to sink into their heads; they have remained down-to-earth, warm and really funny.

Fans who have witnessed their blossoming career in show business know that laughter, coupled with music, becomes more than just a great medication to make one feel good. Their natural way of delivering comedy lines, funny gestures and facial expressions are what made them a sought-after tandem. And these were the reasons why Casino Mactan tapped the two for a night of laughter, said marketing manager Carina Escario.

“They have been known for more than 20 years. Honestly and obviously, they are really doing excellently, making many people laugh,” Carina said.

But not only are Porky and Choppy gifted with a sense of humor and talent, they also perform responsible tasks as family men, and project sensibility in their quest to help upgrade the standards of any stage show especially stand-up comedy.

How are you as a family man and a comedian?
Porky: I’m so blessed with my wife and two kids; we always have time to communicate, laugh and talk. We open up to each other’s concerns. For us, joking is a means of communication. As comedians, Choppy and I try to feel whatever we have to say to maintain naturalness in delivery, which at the same time, makes people laugh spontaneously.
Choppy: Well, I’m proud to have five kids who are talented and blessed with different abilities also. My wife has been very supportive. As comedians, we are more after the missionary than the monetary. We make people happy and we always try to feel we are professionals. The more you become professional, the more you get closer to the people.

How do you usually start your performance?
Porky: We pray before the start of the show. We usually open the repertoire with a song; jokes are mostly delivered later. Not all the things we say are scripted, some are impromptu. That’s why we have to be flexible.
Choppy: Alam mo, kahit hindi pa kami nakapagsimulang mag-joke, natatawa na ang mga tao. It’s so nice to see people in a good mood. Of course, we start the show with an ‘impact na kaagad’ by creating a laughing atmosphere.

What keeps you going in this profession?
Porky: We always feel inspired when people approach and congratulate us after the show. What keeps us is our friendship and mission to bring happiness to others. Choppy: We wanted to change traditional comedy na nagmumurahan. Comedy is something that does not intimidate but stimulate joyous emotions. We hope to upgrade the standards in the field of comedy performance. Filipinos are the best audience, so we want to serve as models to them.

Parting message.
Porky: Don’t think too much of your problems for these will paralyze you. Be happy and share that joy with others.
Choppy: Existing comedians and aspiring ones should bear in mind that performing for comedy shows should not be about pagmumurahan at pagsisigawan, but it is all about sharing stories and comical lines that make people laugh plus singing feel-good music.

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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/10/09/life/kaplan.cebu.to.improve.programs.invite.course.developers.on.2nd.year.html
Wednesday, October 09, 2002

Kaplan-Cebu to improve programs, invite course developers on 2nd year
By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

Kaplan Education Center (KEC) Cebu is celebrating its second year of being the world’s largest test preparation center for standardized tests abroad.

Since its opening two years ago, it has served approximately 400 professionals. As an anniversary promo, the center is offering a 5% discount to the first 20 non-agency sponsored enrollees for the whole month of October.

Dr. Rosetta Fernandez-Mante, the center’s newly appointed director, has announced they are inviting educators to serve as course developers and enrich Kaplan’s existing programs and courses. She said her initial actions include the expansion of Kaplan’s clientele in number and the realization of the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) two-month intensive program. “There are a lot of prospects to touch. We have to make people know that Kaplan exists as the world’s largest test preparation center for standardized tests abroad,” she said. Mante recalled she was invited by Kaplan licensee and CEO George Lim to work as the center’s academic consultant. In October 2000, she started developing curricula for the courses before being appointed as center director.

“We also plan to invite educators to serve as course developers who can help enhance the curricula we are offering. We want to serve the needs of those in the country to pass the local board exams,” she added.

A wholly owned subsidiary of the Washington Post and a sister company of Newsweek, Kaplan offers test preparation courses for professional licensing exams such as the United States Medical Licensure Exam (USMLE), Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS), National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX), and National Dental Board (NDB); and for admission exams to U.S. colleges: Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), Graduate Record Examination (GRE), and Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). In the Philippines, KEC has four centers—three in Metro Manila (Quezon, Makati and Metro Manila) and one in Cebu which is located at 1608 Winland Towers on Juana Osmeña ext.

Intensive program
Designed to be a two-month program for students in any area, NCLEX is done through lectures for seven consecutive Sundays, with two sessions each day.

“Laboratory access is pegged at P450 per hour at a minimum, with multi-media access,” said Naomi Chelo Ramas, Kaplan-Cebu’s sales and marketing supervisor.

She explained that a student gets a home study kit. Kaplan covers a student’s two-way transportation subsidy, the ceiling fee of which is P1,000. It also provides a living and lodging allowance which costs P2,500.
Mante said the program is a way of shortening the usual three-month period of any course to only two months. “For students to avail themselves of this specialized program, they should be determined to live as permanent residents outside of Metro Manila or Metro Cebu and should be at least 100 kilometers from any point of the border of Metro Manila or Cebu,” she specified. Free seminars

To impart the essential inputs of the programs offered, the center is holding free seminars on all courses.
Mante said their center is having joint collaboration and invitation-for-partnership programs. Kaplan’s joint collaboration program was established to develop strong linkages with education partners in the country and with other groups abroad. This aims to combine Kaplan-Philippines’ efforts with key people in the human potential.
It also seeks to reconcile the partners’ goals of covering acquisition of continuous and advanced education from North America, Europe, Australia and parts of Asia through college, postgraduate and professional training for their members.

There are many ways to have a collaboration program. The center may sponsor any school and its student organization’s activities; conduct free seminars for faculty and students; disseminate information about the examinations for international nurses; or fany school may act as its partner in informing students about the benefits of a Kaplan preparation.

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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/10/04/life/cebu.doctors.centre.for.sight.uses.advanced.tech.for.laser.eye.surgery.html
Friday, October 04, 2002

Cebu Doctors’ Centre for Sight uses advanced tech for laser eye surgery
By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

“It empowers you to deliver high standards of vision correction.”

This is how Dr. Potenciano “Yong” Larrazabal defined the main vision of the newly opened Centre for Sight at the ground floor of Cebu Doctors’ Hospital (CDH).

The centre is using the advanced Zyoptix technology, the world’s finest solution for laser eye surgery, he said. Zyoptix is an innovation of Bausch and Lomb (B&L), a global leader in inventive eye care technology.

According to Larrazabal, 12 people have been successfully operated on at the centre since it opened. “Our laser has a tracker which follows every movement of the eye. Zyoptix is an advanced level of refractive laser eye surgery technology commonly known as Lasik.

This has been verified as even safer and more efficacious by results in a clinical study in 35 cities around the world,” he explained. As long as one doesn’t have cataract problems, one may undergo Zyoptix laser eye surgery. “After I had my eyes lasered with Zyoptix, now I have the ability to see more than 20 resolutions. I was amazed!” said Francis Llaban, the center’s model cum endorser.

B & L general manager Elmer Reyes said that Zyoptix can provide an analysis of the eye’s optical system through the use of wavefront technology. It has the potential to enable surgeons to perform a more extensive diagnosis of aberrations and create a personalized profile to treat these. Along with the formal launching of the centre was the acquisition of a new sub-second spiral CT scanner that makes CT scanning faster and more convenient, the management said. CT scan director Phillip Larrazabal said the new machine gets images in less than a second.

For further inquiries, one may call 253-7511 local 346 or 255-3333.

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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/09/30/0014650lif.html
September 30, 2002
Cell Fix standardizes cellular phone repairs
By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

Cellular phones have become a necessity among individuals nowadays. Every unit is a delicate device composed of software and hardware programs.

This is what the management of Cell Fix (of Celltech Marketing), a cellular phone training center and repair shop in GMT bldg. along Junquera corner P. del Rosario st., said in a recent interview. Cebu shop head Edmund Lim said, “The shop’s franchiser Elwin Lo Chan has set up the company not only to cater to cellular phone unit repairs, tools and parts sales, but also to standardize the system and skills of repairing cell phones by holding classes on basic electronics, rudiments of cell phone repairing, cell phone software and hardware, and cell phone addressable defects.”

Cell Fix provides training sessions on how to properly manage a cellular phone unit with defects—either slight or worse.

“The training will last for a week. Anyone can enrol for as long as he or she has the enthusiasm to learn,” Lim added.
More than 100 people have already finished a weeklong training at Cell Fix since it opened in July this year. Most of the graduates are currently doing private repairs done by appointment. Others have put up their own cell phone repair shops.

Cell Fix instructor Denver Crisologo, who has a degree in Electronics Communications Engineering from the University of the East in Caloocan, Manila, said repairing cell phones needs a lot of patience.

“I was a student at Cell Fix in Manila before I became a professor. It’s good to be assigned here in Cebu. Repairing cell phones is a step-by-step thing and there is really an appropriate way of handling the unit and addressing the defects,” he explained. Cell Fix also offers cell parts and working tools for repair. Individuals interested in availing themselves of the training may call 253-2254.

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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/09/27/life/petnet.western.union.opens.cebu.office..html
Friday, September 27, 2002

Petnet-Western Union opens Cebu office
By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

Petnet, the largest agent network of Western Union in the Philippines and Asia, is currently servicing money transfer needs in 2,735 locations nationwide and in 130,000 sites worldwide.

Petnet-Western Union president Anthony W. Lehmann announced this during the grand opening of the Petnet-Cebu office in Fuente last Sept. 17.

“We are setting up a Cebu office because we wanted to show our commitment to the Visayas. We also hope to impart good schemes and strategies to our agents which can help them operate more effectively,” Lehmann said. Currently, Petnet has 600 sub-agents which include malls, rural banks and other commercial establishments. “We handle 4% of the business establishment and we hope to hit 25% within the next five years,” Lehmann said, adding that Western Union’s money transfer service is fast, easy and convenient. “Electronic money transfer is really that fast, as in you push the button and your money is already transferred!” he said.

Originally a telegraph company founded in 1851 by a group of businessmen from Rochester New York, Western Union was first known as The New York and Mississippi Valley Printing Telegraph Co. It changed its name to Western Union Telegraphic Co. in 1856 and entered the global marketplace in 1981. In 1989, it started operations in the Philippines and had 32 million transactions worldwide by 2001.

Today, through its mother company First Data Corp., Western Union has diversified its products and services to include information and transaction processing services.

Lehmann pointed out that the company has always been strict about money transfer regulations, however, only an identification card or ID is needed upon transferring or claiming money.

“Without a valid ID, a test question will be given. This serves as the password and it ensures that the right person gets the money,” he explained.

As the largest network of Western Union, Petnet adheres to the five qualities of excellent service: speed, reliability, convenience, trust and value. The company plans to open another office in Ateneo de Davao.

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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/09/13/life/.inato.lang.dining.at.charcoal.grill.html
Friday, September 13, 2002

‘Inato lang’ dining at Charcoal Grill
By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

Cebuanos are adventurous when it comes to food. They seek “where and how” they can enjoy dining, eat at wherever is new, and when they like a particular place—because of good food, ambiance and service—they repeatedly go there and eat with loved ones.

Although restaurants are everywhere, Cebuanos still find it most enjoyable to eat at a bistro that’s offering an all-Filipino menu and a homely ambiance—“inato lang” (in our dialect). This, certainly, gives us less headache in our eating lifestyle, allowing us to spend less while pleasurably savoring every piece of the food.

At Charcoal Grill in Gorordo, dining is “inato lang”. Food is simply prepared and quickly served. Most of these are grilled like pork, chicken, chorizo, oysters or “tahong”, fish and seafood. The “inato lang” concept creates a similar sense with that of “lutong bahay” which, for most Cebuanos, is most sought-after and tends to keep them dining at the place—feeling as if they’re just eating at their respective homes.

With this, Charcoal Grill has captured a good market of teenagers, families, businessmen and visiting individuals since it formally opened in July this year.

At Charcoal, food is served in a coconut-made plate covered with a sanitized banana leaf (making it native and very Filipino.) Dips like sauce, toyo, vinegar and the like are all tasty as these are enhanced with spices such as ginger, garlic and tomatoes—thus making every foodstuff more mouth-watering and appetite-stimulating. Not only that, because tables are situated in an open area, one may enjoy fresh, natural air.

At Charcoal Grill, comfortable dining makes sense, be it for ordinary days, birthday celebrations, small gatherings and special meetings. The resto is open from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. (or as late as 12 midnight during weekends.
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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/08/16/life/iridology.is.legal.widely.accepted.osaka.owner.html
Friday, August 16, 2002

Iridology is legal, widely accepted: Osaka owner

By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

In the medical field, preventive or Oriental medicine has become an alternative in dealing with weaknesses and ailments.

This, according to Jonathan Guardo, owner of Osaka Health Clinic which pioneered the science of iridology in Cebu, explains the significance and urgency to take iridoalogy as a way of treating or preventing illnesses.

Guardo said, “Iridology is a mainstream in other countries, accepted as a science of traditional alternative medicine as stated in Republic Act (RA) 8423 by Sen. Juan Flavier, and the quickest approach to detect a man’s weakness by merely looking through the eyes.”

“Legal and widely accepted, the science of iridology is also regulated by the Department of Health. It is evolving, I believe so,” Guardo added.

He said that iridology was discovered by Dr. Vonn Peczley Ignatz and it has now changed many people’s lives.
Considered the leading and established health clinic, Osaka is the only company which has a computerized iris camera and 40 centers nationwide.

What’s making Osaka stay in the lead is its chain of clinics in the country, yearly staff trainings, and foreign iridologists who train local practitioners, Guardo explained.

“To professionalize iridology, we are conducting a research in coordination with DOH and the Philippine Medical Association,” Guardo said. Fee at Osaka is P100, good for two check-ups. For more details, one may call 416-5367.

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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/08/14/life/gothong.business.consulting.group.sets.up.school.for.biz.skills.development.trainings..html
Wednesday, August 14, 2002

Gothong Business Consulting Group sets up school for biz skills development, trainings
By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

“Customer care, salesmanship and marketing are three of the many salient aspects you need to learn, develop and master when you are into business,” said marketing-business consultant Johnny Lee Gothong.

Gothong established the Gothong Business Consulting Group (GBCG) to provide consultations and trainings to individuals or professionals who wish to enhance their knowledge in business. He has just set up a school which initially offers customer care, salesmanship and marketing subjects. This, he believes, would help aspiring businessmen enhance their knowledge and skills to become more efficient in product and business management.

The first batch of students graduated from customer care course last July 22, while another batch received certificates of completion in marketing last July 27. “In business, especially when it is a large-scale one, you have to be multi-lingual,” he pointed out, thus he also developed courses in conversation languages such as Japanese and Chinese.

Not only is Gothong doing the typical classroom discussion in his training institution (located on Juana Osmeña extension), he is also dealing with companies and corporations. He delivers seminars and trainings for their respective management team and employes.

“I am proud to reach the corporate level. Until now, I work with Corporate America where I’m dealing with CEOs and bigwigs,” he said. In his 21 years in the business and marketing consultancy field, Gothong has trained many businessmen here and abroad.

I am expecting international students to come in,” he said. Other than teaching, Gothong is also into investment consulting, property management, brokering and international business ventures.
Individuals interested in taking any of the courses and services offered by GBCG may call 253-6047 or 255-4610.

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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/08/30/life/bodytone.fitness.sponsors.myra.300.e.s.aerokick.tilt.html
Friday, August 30, 2002

Bodytone Fitness sponsors Myra 300-E’s ‘aerokick’ tilt
By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

Bodytone Lifestyle Center and Fitness Clubs, one of Cebu’s known fitness gyms, sponsored the second Myra 300-E aerobic kickboxing competition and bodybuilding exhibition last Aug. 11 at the Ayala activity center.

Guest celebrity Jackielou Blanco, an actress-turned-health buff, served as lone judge in the event. She did an aerobic-kickboxing performance in the latter part of the show.
For the second time, Myra 300-E successfully initiated the contest along with J. Eugenio Concepts as producer and Bodytone as presentor.

Bodytone said it supported the event because it believes in the concept of “aerokick”, a combination of aerobics and kickboxing, as one of the effective ways to trim down. “We want to develop enthusiasm among Cebuanos that exercising, like doing aerobics and kickboxing, is one good way to attain a healthier and more energetic body,” gym manager Lester de la Torre said. The seven competing teams, Hydro Power, Power Extreme Kickers, Oclar Survivor, Power Team, Cebu City Sports Center Power Kicks, Twin Fitness and Unsofi, showed different steps and movements to the tune of any upbeat music.

Winners were the Oclar Survivor team, champion; Power Extreme Kickers, first runner-up; and the Cebu City Sports Center Power Kicks, second-runner up.

The full-packed event was hosted by Adrian Ding. Event highlights were the bodybuilding exhibition and the aerobics-kickboxing demonstration which followed after the competition.

“I know Myra 300-E will still be doing this next year. We’re glad about the positive response of the participants and sponsors, and we hope to do it even better next year,” said Judith Eugenio, managing director of J. Eugenio Concepts.

The competition was co-presented by 555 Carne Norte, Sea Air, Omega painkiller and Sustagen Premium. It was also sponsored by Femina, Power Plus, Cebu Daily News, Coffee Dream, Jorgeens, Bioderm, Air Philippines, Casino Ethyl Alcohol, Del Monte 202, Caltrate Plus, 88.3 Music Now, 93.1 Crossover, Energy FM, 97.1 dyLS FM, Z104 FM, 92.3 Killer Bee, Penny Capistrano, Ayala Center Cebu. Other sponsors were Tambuli Beach Resort, General Nutrition Center Corp., Nature’s Spring, Sky Cable, Happy Dent Babyflo Cologne, and Cascades Studio of Flowers. For inquiries on workout rates at Bodytone, one may call 232-2300.

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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/07/26/life/cebu.beach.club.draws.guests.with.sea.walking.html
Friday, July 26, 2002

Cebu Beach Club draws guests with sea-walking
By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

Who says only good swimmers can see the beauty of the underwater world? And who says you have to only swim and float when under the sea?

Now, one can walk while under the sea. While on the Cebu Seawalker Tour offered by Cebu Beach Club in Buyong Maribago, one does not have to be an expert swimmer or diver. Just “wear the helmet and take a walk,” and watch schools of tropical fish swim by. According to the company, Cebu Seawalker is the first and only spot that offers sea-walking in addition to other sea adventures like jet skiing, speed boat and pedal boat riding, aqua jump and other aqua sports activities.

“Here, sea-walking becomes the main attraction to our local and foreign guests. Popular in Japan, 80% of our market is Japanese. We’re also targeting other foreign nationalities and locals though,” marketing manager Raquel Dungog said.

The thought of walking under the sea, fifteen-feet deep can be both discouraging and risky. However, with a helmet pressurized at 37 kilos, the task becomes fun and uncomplicated. ‘”Sea-walkers” will be provided with the necessary paraphernalia and equipment imported from Japan for them to enjoy their 30-minute walk. For security, the sea-walking area is bounded by bars. The activity is also safe for kids as instructors accompany them as they feed and play with fishes. When not sea-walking, guests may either go on a picnic or go island hopping. “We offer different packages for foreign guests and locals. One package, for instance, at P1,700, local guests can enjoy a 15-minute banana boat ride, aqua jump and pedal boat, plus souvenir bag and a welcome drink,” Dungog added.

With an office in Japan, Cebu Seawalker has tied up with several travel agencies in the country. Many celebrities have already visited the spot.
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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/07/12/life/jollibee.ties.up.with.deped.for.kaya.mong.ilarawan!.tilt.html

Friday, July 12, 2002
Jollibee ties up with DepEd for 'Kaya Mong Ilarawan' tilt

By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

Jollibee, the number one fastfood chain in the country, has tied up with the Department of Education (DepEd) for a nationwide painting competition dubbed “Kapayapaan, Kaya Mong Ilarawan, Kid!”

The contest is open to all pupils aged seven to 12 from both public and private schools. The grand finals will be held on Oct. 11 in Metro Manila. A part of the successful “Kaya Mo, Kid!” campaign, which is now on its sixth year of promoting values formation and empowering kids to make a difference in their families, schools and communities, the contest has two categories – the oil-based medium category (using only pastels) and the water-based medium category (using watercolor, acrylic, water-soluble colored pencil or gouache).

In a press conference last July 5 at Jollibee-Ayala, DepEd Schools Superintendent Dr. Leonilo B. Oliva said the project is something that will create a good and positive attitude among children. “This will build optimistic values in our kids, especially self-reliance. I am encouraging all principals from different schools here (Cebu) to actively send as many entries as they can,” Oliva encouraged. Jollibee said schools may send unlimited entries, which will first qualify for the regional finals, then the semifinals before proceeding to the national level. Competitors in the national level will have an on-the-spot painting contest. Finalists, with their respective guardians, will be flown to Manila courtesy of Cebu Pacific.

Aside from medals and pins of distinction, the grand prize winner for each category will receive P15,000 in cash, a four-year elite educational plan from Pet Plans, Inc., a Jollibee kiddie party package worth P5,000, Jollibee gift certificates worth P2,000, and a special gift pack from Goodwill Bookstore. Jollibee believes that today’s children possess great potentials that must be maximized and they can be transformed into citizens with a cause, teaching them values that promote friendship and goodwill. “This is something that can create effective change in our society which will likely bring peace, harmony and progress,” Jollibee said.

The painting organizers and sponsors are positive about Filipino kids taking a more positive and creative approach towards the promotion of peace, which is the main theme of the tilt. Timely and relevant, the theme will encourage children to think of sensible ways to promote peace and translate these into works of art—say good acts like lining up properly in the school cafeteria, sharing a toy with a friend and comforting a sad classmate.

The contest is also supported by Ilustrador ng Kabataan (INK), Pet Plans, Inc., official carrier Cebu Pacific and official arts materials provider Goodwill Bookstore. For more inquiries, one may see posters and flyers at the nearest Jollibee store or visit http://www.jollibee.com.ph/.

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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/07/05/life/spa.packages.at.plantation.bay.html
Friday, JULY 05, 2002

Spa Packages at Plantation Bay

By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

“Give yourself a real treat. Pamper yourself and have that special glow in your skin and face. Everyone, stressed out from work, deserves to relax!” said Nenette Castillon, supervisor of Plantation Bay Resort and Spa’s Mogambo Springs, a health and relaxation spa.

A masterpiece of Mike Monsod, the resort’s sports and recreation director, Mogambo Springs is offering special and “really pampering” spa packages, each a combination of more than one usual spa treatment. Castillon said the spa is family-oriented and communal in concept. The “sweet sampler” treats one with a pool massage and body scrub for about 45 minutes. The “stress reliever” also gives these two, plus a chair massage—all in one hour and 15 minutes.

Other special spa packages include: “foot haven” for one hour and 15 minutes, which is a combination of pool massage (PM), body scrub (BS) and sensational foot therapy (SFT); “relaxation indulgence” for one hour and 45 minutes, a combination of PM, BS and full-body massage (FBM); “aromatic tranquility” for one hour and 45 minutes, a combination of PM, BS and aromatherapy oil massage treatment (AOMT); “total pampering” for two hours, a combination of BS, SFT and facial treatment (FT) of any choice; “double-treat happiness” for two hours and 45 minutes, a combination of PM, BS and a two-hour body massage with aromatherapy oil; and “the ultimate spa experience” for three hours and 30 minutes, a complete spa pampering treat that includes PM, BS, foot therapy, FT of any choice and OMT in a private treatment room.

The setting of Mogambo Springs is evocative of a “mountain canyon ridge” complimented by a mixture of Japanese, Balinese and Filipino architecture and designs—making the whole place ideal for peace and relaxation.
The spa is composed of four pools: hot pool, salt water spring, cascading cold pool, and hot whirlpool. The first three are located in the main pool area while the latter is situated in a private villa. Castillon also said that at Mogambo Springs, a client will experience the opening of skin pores while floating in a soothing hot spring, rejuvenating the body in a stimulating mineral bath, and enjoying a vigorous hydro-massage in the main waterfall basin. He then moves to a dry-heat sauna to sweat out the toxins, and from there, choose any of the offered classic massage, reflexology, aromatherapy or body scrub.

“Our products are all from Body Shop. Well, I believe a spa’s existence is all about health, well-being, and providing total satisfaction and relaxation to stressed-out individuals,” she said. Also offered at Mogambo Springs are facial treatments like “aromatic beauty touch” or anti-stress treatment, “action sublime” or anti-aging treatment, and “green clay purifying” treatment. Single packaged massages include stress relieving chair massage, sensational foot therapy, full-body massage, aromatherapy oil massage, pool massage, and head-to-foot body scrub.

For more inquiries, one may call Manila at (02) 844-5024/25 or Cebu at (032) 340-5987, or visit its website at http://www.plantationbay.com/

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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/06/28/life/ibank.opens.branch.in.mandaue.html

Friday, June 28, 2002

iBank opens branch in Mandaue

By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

The International Exchange Bank (iBank) recently launched its third Cebu branch at the ground floor of Khuz’ns bldg. in North Highway, Estancia, Mandaue city.

Nilo L. Pacheco Jr., the bank’s executive vice-president, said the establishment of a branch in Mandaue is considered timely and needed. “Cebu is a big city and since our bank has established a pretty well-known reputation already, we thought that we needed to expand—somewhere in the north—aside from our existing ones in Plaridel and General Maxilom,” he said.

Only seven years in the industry, iBank has already produced a network of 67 branches and 55 automated teller machines nationwide. This exceptional performance has allowed it to reach P35 billion in total bank resources, thus making it the 14th largest bank. “Despite the business crunch, we continue to be profitable as our clients show much loyalty in reciprocating our highly-automated and customer-oriented services. It’s basically good workforce and excellent internal management that’s boosting our bank’s performance in the industry,” Pacheco pointed out the factors that have kept iBank at a remarkably booming pace.

For iBank, the Mandaue branch marks an entry into a more competitive financial arena of emerging new banks and expanding giants. And, it is determined to sustain in the market. The bank said, with its solid financial capital built on combined talent and experience of seasoned professional bankers, it sets out to be the epitome of service excellence as it seizes every challenge to make a difference in the highly-competitive field of banking.

Pacheco also announced they will open their second branch in Davao soon. “More branches will follow, so that within four months, iBank shall be having 70 branches in all,” he said.

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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2002/06/28/life/city.sports.club.hosts.pa.ares.heroes.exhibit.html
Friday, June 28, 2002
City Sports Club hosts Pañares’ ‘Heroes’ exhibit
By Rudynah D. Entera

Freemasons clad in a white apron with a triangular symbol.

That was how artist Manuel Pañares presented the national heroes in his paintings featured in an exhibit dubbed “Heroes: a Painting Exhibit by Manuel Pañares” held last June 12-22 at the lobby of City Sports Club Cebu at the Cebu Business Park.

An Independence-day related affair, the 10-day event brought a fresh insight about how our national heroes fought to achieve our country’s freedom.

“Our heroes had to wear aprons and become masons in order to fight for independence,” Pañares’ wife Antoinette said while explaining what the exhibit was all about. Portrayed as freemasons in the paintings are Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, Emilio Aguinaldo, Apolinario Mabini, Marcelo H. Del Pilar, Graciano Lopez-Jaena, Gen. Antonio Luna, Juan Luna, Mariano Ponce, Gregorio Aglipay, Manuel Quezon, among others.

Other than heroes, a painting on the three women mending the Philippine flag in Hong Kong was also highlighted. Pañares also painted the Cebu storyline or version of the making of the flag. According to his wife, who is also a historian, “the Philippine flag was raised three times in Cebu—first at Sudlon Mountains, then at El Pardo church and finally at Fort San Pedro. The culmination of freedom struggle or final flag raising done by General Maxilom on Dec. 24, 1898 led to a festive scenario among the townsmen by way of having a feast of tsokolate and budbod.”

Pañares said he started painting when he was three. He has expressed himself as a witness to the unfolding panorama of his country’s development. As an artist, he digs into facts and local history. He adds color, face and body to a historical figure and makes him alive.

“I am grateful to local historians whose testimonies and family historiography have enabled me to reconstruct and recreate a lost era particularly the period of the Katipunan revolution in Cebu,” he said. For City Sports Club, it was more than an honor to have Pañares exhibit 20 of his great paintings on Independence Day. It was the club’s first to host such an exhibition.

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Friday, June 21, 2002
Microwarehouse highlights wireless tech at Comddap
By Rudynah D. Entera, PR-features writer

Microwarehouse is showcasing its 3Com networking products at the ongoing Computer Manufacturers, Distributors and Dealers Association of the Philippines (Comddap) 2002 being held at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel (WCCH) in Lahug.
The event ends on June 22. The company said its products provide long-range, cost-effective wireless connectivity between sites. A product presentation will be done by 3Com country manager Kenneth Palacios today, June 21 at 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon at Function Room 2 of WCCH. Part of the wireless LAN family, the 3Com building-to-building bridge provides reliable and high-performance connectivity between hard-to-wire- sites and helps one extend the network to previously hard-to-reach users without leasing data circuits or having to lay cables, Microwarehouse said.

“With 3Com wireless technology, it’s easy for you to install lines and cables—in minutes at that. Besides, you get a one-year warranty with it. It assures the end-users an easy-to-use graphical interface and functions that practically reduce the burden,” said Ma. Guia “Rosanna” Revillame, Microwarehouse Cebu-Davao branch manager.

She added that the networking products have the least price in the market. One product is the 3Com 11 MBPS Wireless Lan building-to-building bridge, which provides wireless links of up to 1300 meters using omni-directional antennas, and 4100 meters using sector panel antennas. It also keeps network connections available and reliable by automatically determining transfer rates based on signal strength and environmental conditions and allows IT administrators to manage the bridge remotely, using the Internet and Telnet.

Microwarehouse has just installed a 3Com wireless technology at Siliman University. It will install the same technology at the University of San Jose-Recoletos in Cebu and Ateneo de Davao, among others. The company has also tied up with schools in providing basic networking trainings to all graduating students, which include both theoretical and hands-on sessions.

Microwarehouse has also set a two-day 3Com training in July. Revillame said the 3Com products are omni-directional and are globally known for their top performance, flexibility, reliability, manageability and security.

“As a distributor of 3Com, we feel that we have the social responsibility of updating the community about new technology. So, I’m inviting all IT professionals, businessmen, students and ordinary yet enthusiastic individuals to attend the product demonstration,” Revillame said. Microwarehouse has been a distributor of 3Com since 1988. It has offices in Davao and Pasig and has about 56 dealers in the country. For more inquiries, one may call 253-1026 or 253-4316 or visit its office in 39D Borromeo Arcade on F. Ramos st.