Matrix – Bring it Home

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Johnson Health Tech is excited to announce the retail launch of its Matrix line of cardio fitness equipment. Previously available only in a gym or club setting, users can now experience the dynamic performance and uncompromising design of Matrix products from the comfort of their own home.

“For years Matrix Fitness has been a trusted partner in the commercial fitness industry worldwide, and we are excited to extend the Matrix brand to our home fitness customers,” said Mark Zabel, Vice President, Global Marketing and Product Development for Johnson Health Tech. “Matrix retail products are designed to bring a premium workout experience to the home – ensuring our customers a higher level of satisfaction with their fitness routine.”

Optimized for the home environment, the Matrix retail line offers the same durability, performance and industry-leading technology that fitness enthusiasts love about Matrix’s club-quality equipment. With a compact design, the machines fit comfortably in the home workout space, and the superior styling of the industrial design sets a new standard for how home fitness equipment should look. Three different intuitive consoles give users choices, whether they’re looking for an advanced experience that includes access to their favorite apps, social media, premium entertainment, stunning virtual journeys and much more, or a simple display with accurate, easy-to-read feedback that tracks heart rate, distance, watts and other workout metrics.

The Matrix retail line includes:

Treadmills – Offering the industry’s most advanced frame and deck combination, Matrix treadmills strike the perfect balance between engineering and aesthetics. The welded steel frame provides superior stability and the front wheel transport makes moving the treadmill easy. The Ultimate Deck System combines a heavy-duty frame, extra-thick deck and industrial-grade cushions for miles of durable performance. Also available in a folding design, the deck can be lifted to a near-90 degree angle and rolled away to save space. Additional performance options include the exclusive Johnson Drive System providing unmatched consistency and smoothness, available on the TF50.

Ellipticals – The most compact, most comfortable and smoothest ellipticals in the industry, Matrix ellipticals feature wheel- and track-free Suspension Elliptical Technology, which reduces noise and friction, while providing a smooth, consistent feel. Available on the E50 model, the exclusive Exact Force Induction Brake offers smooth, easy and precise resistance changes at the touch of a button.
Ascent Trainers – Matrix Ascent Trainers deliver an exceptionally smooth, ultra-comfortable exercise experience. The unique suspension design with PerfectStride leveraged extensive research to combine an ideal stride motion, ergonomically correct foot positioning, correct posture and a variable stride length that adjusts as incline changes for a more natural-feeling workout. Similar to Matrix ellipticals, the Ascent Trainers feature wheel- and track-free Suspension Elliptical Technology.

Bikes – Matrix exercise bikes are designed for users of all shapes and sizes and are available in upright and recumbent bike designs. The upright and recumbent bikes feature Matrix’s Dual Form Frame, which provides superior stability and easy step-through access, as well as an ergonomic Comfort Arc Seat to maximize support, and the Exact Force Induction Brake (select models), which makes it easy to quickly and smoothly change resistance. The Matrix ES Indoor Cycle offers a true-to-life riding experience with a smooth, heavy flywheel and easy adjustments to give every user an ideal riding position.

The Matrix retail line will begin rolling out in May at Johnson Fitness and Wellness concept store in Commercenter Alabang, Muntinlupa City; Pioneer Center Kapitolyo, Pasig City; and SM City Clark, Pampanga. For more information about Matrix products, visit matrixfitness.com

About Matrix Fitness

Matrix Fitness (www.matrixfitness.com), a Johnson Health Tech brand, is the fastest-growing commercial fitness brand in the world. Matrix is comprised of a complete line of cardiovascular and strength-training equipment for health clubs and other fitness facilities. For the first time, Matrix Fitness now offers a retail line with a focus on cardiovascular equipment for the home fitness enthusiast.
About Johnson Health Tech

Johnson Health Tech, Inc. (JHT), Taiwan, is one of the largest fitness equipment manufacturers in the world and is home to some of the most respected brands in the fitness industry, including Matrix, Vision and Horizon. The company manufactures a wide assortment of fitness equipment for both commercial and residential use, including treadmills, elliptical trainers, exercise bikes and strength training equipment. Johnson Health Tech’s global management headquarters is based in Taichung, Taiwan, with global product development, marketing and engineering based in Cottage Grove, Wis.

Robinsons Supermarket’s Route to Wellness Campaign

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In time for the back-to-school season, families, especially students, can continue their journey towards healthy living as they discover nutritious and rewarding food choices in “Learn Wellness”, the second promo event in the “Route to Wellness” campaign of Robinsons Supermarket.

Robinsons Supermarket welcomed families to the “Magical World of Wellness” recently at Eastwood Central Plaza. The enchanting set-up was composed of fun wizarding activities from a VTR game, potion-making and a finders-keepers game. Select moms also got a chance to learn and make their own bento-boxes. All games and activities help educate kids and kids-at-heart on the importance of proper nutrition and regular exercise.

From May 1 to June 30, 2017, shoppers will get a PHP 100 OFF coupon for a minimum single receipt purchase of PHP 3,000 at Robinsons Supermarket. Purchases must be inclusive of PHP 500 worth of participating products from Nestle, CDO, Splash, Wyeth, or Purefoods. Loyal shoppers can also earn additional 10 Robinsons Rewards Card points when they buy select Nestle products during this promo.

Robinsons Supermarket’s Route to Wellness campaign banners its commitment to strengthening its “We Love Wellness” advocacy that enables it to provide healthier food options and alternatives to Filipinos.

To stay updated on Robinsons Supermarket’svarious activities and learn more about its “Route to Wellness” campaign, like it on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RobinsonsSupermarketOfficial or visit www.robinsons-supermarket.com.ph.

Nestle Breakfast Cereals – Working to make Breakfast Better

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Most children in the Philippines are getting less than the recommended intake of whole grains and fiber according to the 8th National Nutrition Survey conducted by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute, and the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST). The study, which looked at the whole grain consumption of different Filipino population groups, revealed that only 1 in 20 children consume whole grain. It also showed that, overall, 99% of Filipinos do not consume ≥48g of whole grain per day which is the US whole grain intake recommendation.

In response to these findings, Nestlé Philippines hosted a ‘master class’ event to discuss the importance of eating a healthy breakfast and encourage families to add more whole grain to their daily nutrition for a healthier future. Nestlé staff, nutrition experts, and media explored the nutritious ingredients in KOKO KRUNCH® and prepared their own breakfast cereals.

“The 8th National Nutrition Survey clearly demonstrates the need to increase awareness amongst Filipinos on the importance of eating whole grains. It is alarming that consumption levels in the Philippines are far below recommended levels and that the vast majority of Filipinos are missing out on the benefits associated with whole grains, which include lower body weight and cholesterol levels, as well as reduced risk of diabetes and other chronic diseases,” commented Ma. Adrienne Constantino, Former Supervising Science Research Specialist of Nutritional Assessment and Monitoring Division, FNRI.

“We believe breakfast is more than a good start to your day—it’s the foundation for a better future. We want moms to feel empowered to make informed and healthy choices, so they can provide the best nutrition for their children. We have made this easier by making whole grain the number one ingredient in all Nestlé Breakfast Cereals that are popular with school children and teens,” said Ece Durukan, Nestlé Regional Nutrition and External Affairs Manager for Asia, Middle East, and Africa.

Don’t miss out on the benefits of eating whole grains. Make breakfast better with Nestlé Breakfast Cereals’ wide range of nutritious, tasty, and convenient whole grain cereals. For more information, visit www.nestle-cereals.com/ph

About Cereal Partners Worldwide

Cereal Partners Worldwide (CPW) is a leading global breakfast cereal company and the maker of Nestlé Breakfast Cereals, including favorites such as KOKO KRUNCH®, HONEY STARS®, and COOKIE CRISP®. With more than 50 brands to suit all ages and lifestyles globally, CPW strives to make breakfast better with nutritious, tasty and convenient food that helps people start their day in the best possible way. Established in 1990, CPW is a long-standing partnership between Nestlé and General Mills, bringing together the world-class capabilities of both companies. Headquartered in Switzerland, CPW has a strong global network with 4,200 employees, 17 factories, four R&D centers and sales teams in more than 130 markets. For more information, visit www.nestle-cereals.com

Shopee Expands Selection of Men’s Products Due to Growing Male Online Shoppers

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While online shopping has traditionally been a female activity, the guys aren’t about to get left behind. More Filipino males are starting to browse online for better deals skipping shopping in traditional brick-and-mortar malls.

Shopee, the leading mobile shopping app in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, has recognized this new shopping behavior of male consumers, who are more meticulous than women when it comes to buying online.

Macy Castillo, Shopee’s Head of Commercial Business shares, “Apart from gadgets that are widely popular no matter the age, the shopping behavior of men in the Philippines differ based on age groups. Men aged between 20 and 24 are trend conscious and have lower spending power, but shop more often, buying more Fashion and Accessories. Men between 25 to 30 spend a bit more on Wellness, Hobbies and Sports items; while men between 31-35 who have higher purchasing power, buy from our Toys, Kids and Babies category as well as Men’s Skincare. We see our dads buying baby bottles and face creams — products that they are not usually seen buying in public!”

To cater to the different and discerning needs of male customers, Shopee expands its product selection with more trusted brands like Belo Essentials, HP, SanDisk and Promate,.

Belo Men Brand Manager Mario Garcia says, “With Shopee, we can tap more consumers for Belo Men. It enables us to reach out to our customers and help them with their needs and concerns. We are very happy with our partnership!”

Joharrah Aviles, Promate’s E-Commerce Director of Southeast Asia adds, “Shopee is the perfect shopping app for our brand. Not only is it convenient and hassle-free, but it is also highly social in nature, which helps us a lot in communicating with our customers.”

For men who are hesitant about shopping online, Shopee’s Live Chat allays fears by allowing buyers to easily communicate with the sellers for any questions they may have. Users also enjoy Shopee Guarantee, which protects payments until orders are delivered.

Shopee is available at free download from the App Store and Google Play. For more information about Shopee, or to start your online shopping experience, visit www.shopee.ph

WWE SmackDown will now be televise on TV5 – This will be seen April 30, 2017 Sunday at 3pm.

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WWE (NYSE: WWE) and TV5 today announced a new agreement to broadcast WWE’s flagship program SmackDown® in the Philippines on TV5 beginning Sunday, April 30.

Every week, TV5 will televise a one-hour edition of SmackDown on Sundays at 3PM. Fans will be able to follow their favorite WWE Superstars on SmackDown, including AJ Styles™, The New Day™, Randy Orton™, Charlotte Flair™, Shinsuke Nakamura™, Kevin Owens™ and Naomi™. In addition to the broadcast on TV5, SmackDown will be simulcast online at TV5.com.ph and Sports.tv5.com.ph.

“TV5 shares our vision and desire for engaging and entertaining fans in the Philippines,” said Ed Wells, WWE Executive Vice President, International. “This new partnership to televise SmackDown showcases the continuing global growth of WWE while creating a destination for WWE fans in the Philippines to enjoy our unique blend of action-packed, family fun entertainment.”

TV5 President Chot Reyes added: “In the industry of sports entertainment, WWE is second to none. It’s a proven, successful, model organization and an esteemed, iconic brand. We at TV5 are honored and excited to be the platform that delivers the WWE to the free TV audience.”

WWE, a publicly traded company (NYSE: WWE), is an integrated media organization and recognized leader in global entertainment. The company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family friendly entertainment on its television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing platforms. WWE programming reaches more than 650 million homes worldwide in 20 languages. WWE Network, the first-ever 24/7 over-the-top premium network that includes all live pay-per-views, scheduled programming and a massive video-on-demand library, is currently available in more than 180 countries. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, London, Mexico City, Mumbai, Shanghai, Singapore, Dubai, Munich and Tokyo.

Additional information on WWE (NYSE: WWE) can be found at wwe.com andcorporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go tohttp://www.wwe.com/worldwide/

As one of the main pillars of TV5, sports enjoys world-class coverage, programming, and delivery under TV5’s watch. At the same time, the network champions a decidedly different brand of entertainment that is influenced by and relevant to the current social milieu.

TV5, by design, is a perfect synergy of sports and entertainment.

For more information on TV5’s sports programs, along with its entertainment, news, and gaming content, visit www.tv5.com.ph.

Century Tuna recipe by Gerald, Matteo, and Paulo

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It’s officially summertime! And we can’t think of a better way to get into the groove of things than with the country’s number 1 tuna, Century Tuna, as it presents three “My Recipe to Sexy” dishes from three of the fittest and sexiest actors today, each one with his own distinct handsome looks, unique talents, and personalities!

We all know Century Tuna as the choice of health and fitness buffs, but it is also the favorite of many foodies out there as it’s a great, delicious addition to any dish. So why not have three of the most popular male actors share their favorite, easy-to-prepare and oh-so delicious Century Tuna recipes?

“Like Gerald, Mateo and Paulo, Century Tuna is very versatile,” relates Greg Banzon, Century Pacific Food, Inc. VP & General Manager. ”You can use it in different dishes, allowing you to be creative in creating your own recipe to sexy!”

Pinoy Big Brother: Teen Edition in 2006, and after a string of television appearances, movie roles, and as part of a popular love team, Gerald proved his acting worth in the gritty, acclaimed film On The Job.

Next, there’s Matteo Guidicelli. Following a decorated stint in the fast lane as a karting racer garnering numerous trophies, Matteo entered showbiz in earnest, attending drama and performing arts school in the United States to further hone his craft. On top of that, he also released his first self-titled album in 2016!

And then of course there’s Paulo Avelino. Considered in the industry as “The Prince of Teleseryes”, Paulo has starred in a number of outstanding indie movie releases, among them Sayaw ng Dalawang Kaliwang Paa which earned for him the Best Actor nod from the prestigious Gawad Urian.

So what brings these 3 fit and sexy gentlemen together this scorching summer, you ask? They’re the latest faces – and hot bods – in the Century Tuna’s newest summer TVC, one that spells fun and fitness by way of its “My Recipe to Sexy” campaign! For those who’ve not seen the ad which is now airing on primetime TV, it features the trio as “hot cooks” as they respectively present their favorite recipes to a sexy, healthy bod: Tuna Egg Salad Sandwich ala Matteo; Tuna Pancit Canton ala Paulo; and Tuna Silog ala Gerald. All nutritious, delicious, and most of all easy to prepare!

“Breakfast for me is very important,” Gerald shares. “And I wanted a dish that’s a healthier take on the typical Pinoy breakfast so I came up with this super delicious Tuna Silog. “

“I’m always on the go,” Matteo reveals. “I love having a lean sandwich because it’s easy to prepare. Just like my Tuna Egg Salad Sandwich on wheat bread which is healthy yet very satisfying!”

“Tuna Pancit Canton is the ultimate, yummy comfort food – something you can make in a jiffy!” Paulo declares.

In other words, as summer equals frolic and fun under the sun, it doesn’t mean you have to deprive yourself just to stay fit and sexy. Thanks to Century Tuna, which is lean and adaptable, you can easily prepare and enjoy a myriad of irresistible meals. And if you can have these hot cooks as fitsperation, even better!

So…this summer…what’s your recipe to sexy?

IMMAP Launches Digital Congress 2017, DX: The Culture of Digital Transformation

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Manila, Philippines—The Internet and Mobile Marketing Association of the Philippines (IMMAP) announced last April 6 the first details of this year’s Digital Congress (DigiCon), including programs, speakers, and activities at the annual industry event. Carrying the theme “DX: The Culture of Digital Transformation,” DigiCon 2017 will be held on October 11-13 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC).

“Over the past years, not only has digital technology changed the way we communicate, interact, work and play as individuals, it has begun transforming entire companies and industries,” shares IMMAP President Margot B. Torres. “Through DigiCon 2017, it is IMMAP’s aim to equip companies with the tools that they need to transform in this age of digital evolution and innovate amidst constant change.”

To help Filipino marketers adapt in this era of digitization, the second year of the congress focuses on fostering a unique culture that thrives in today’s digital age. The largest of its kind in the Philippines, it is expected to draw around 2,500 delegates from various industries across the country. Participants will have the opportunity to listen to content provided by globally acknowledged opinion leaders, among them: Altimeter Group Principal Analyst and award-winning author Brian Solis. His first trip to the Philippines, Solis will impart his expertise to help participants understand the relationship between the evolution of technology and its impact on people.

Other speakers include: Google Director of People DN Prasad, WARC Managing Director for Asia Pacific Edward Pank, TNS APAC Director for Digital Zoe Lawrence, LOWE Global Head Wayne Arnold, McCann Creative Planner for Japan Shun Matsuzaka, Dentsu Aegis Philippine CEO and IMMAP founding President Donald Lim, Deloitte Digital Regional Strategy Director Amer Iqbal, Founder of McCann Millennials Shun Matsuzaka, JWT APAC Director for Digital Josie Brown, Spotify APAC Managing Director Sunita Kaur, EMEA Marketing Lead, Emerging Business for Facebook Ana Bishop Rehrig, Asia-Pacific CEO for iProspect Joanna Catalano, APAC CEO for Havas Media and India & South East Asia for Havas Group Vishnu Mohan, SEA General Manager for Maker Studios, Gautam Talwar, ASEAN President for Cisco Naveen Menon, Brand Manager Mondelez Philippines for Tang PH Lawrence Dominique Lorico, Thinking Machines CEO Stephanie Sy, George Royeca for Team VR, OnOff Group Design Thinking Specialist and founder Phil Smithson, and Deputy Commissioner of the National Privacy Commission Dondi Mapa.

A total of 80 speakers will share their expertise spread over 5 + 1 tracks; this year’s DigiCon will have five main topics (People and Organizations, New Age of Storytelling, Living Streams, Customer Experience, and Pivots and Unicorns) plus one to be introduced this year (Culture). The Culture track is a new addition that will go beyond the breakout sessions; it aims to foster collaboration among participants and to show how digital technology is accessible, fun, and most of all, felt.

Attendees will immerse themselves in understanding innovative tactile experiences such as Virtual and Augmented reality at DigiCon’s Trade Exhibit, which will showcase e-commerce and other impressive technology solutions. In between tracks and exhibits are culture-shaping activities that will push participants to network and have a well-rounded experience.

“A true transformation needs to occur at many levels,” says IMMAP Vice-President and DigiCon Chairman Ed Mapa. “Ultimately, organizations need to constantly re-evaluate and be ready to change how they work—from processes, to organizational teams, and to ways of working. The sooner we adapt, the more benefits we can enjoy.”

For more information on DigiCon 2017, The Culture of Digital Transformation, including how to attend, exhibit or sponsor, visit http://www.digicon.com.ph.

BEST Center Opens it’s 39th year Nationwide Summer Clinics

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BEST (Basketball Efficiency Scientific Training) Center, the pioneer and multi-awarded basketball clinic in the Philippines, is now accepting enrollees for its annual summer sports clinics to be held in various cities across the country.

Now on its 39th year, BEST Center teaches kids using scientific training methods to hone their skills in playing sports according to their level of experience and skills. For the basketball clinic, kids as young as 5 years old are accepted and levels offered are level 1 for beginners and levels 2 to 6 for advance, while for volleyball clinics, kids as young as 8 years old are accepted and levels offered are 1 to 3.

BEST Center opens nationwide summer clinics

Aside from learning the fundamentals of ball handling, dribbling, passing, shooting, spiking, serving, blocking, footwork, and defensive and offensive moves, kids also spend their summer productively with BEST Center by learning values such as discipline, camaraderie, teamwork, and sportsmanship which are vital for their growth and development.

“To make the summer season more productive, we encourage parents to enroll their kids in sports clinics,” says former national coach and BEST Center founder, Nicanor Jorge. “Through sports, they will not only make use of their time productively and be physically active. They will also have fun, meet new friends and develop social and life skills.”

Since its establishment in 1978, BEST Center continues to produce some of the country’s finest basketball and volleyball players including Chris Tiu, Kiefer Ravena, Michelle Gumabao, and Princess Gaiser. The nationally renowned organization is sponsored by MILO and supported by Chris Sports and Rain or Shine, has also been cited by the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) and the Olympism Award from the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) as hall of famer for its contribution to sports development in the Philippines.

To know the complete schedule or for more information about BEST Center’s classes and tournaments, call the hotlines 411-6260, 3723066 and 372-3065, email bestcentersports@gmail.com or follow BEST Center Sports, Inc. on Facebook.

Three new exciting flavors from Wilkins Delight

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Beverage giant, Coca-Cola, brings innovation to a whole new level with the introduction of the first water – flavored with real fruit juice, in the Philippines – Wilkins Delight!

On April 5, the Company officially introduced the newest addition to the growing water portfolio of the Wilkins Brand. Wilkins Delight is an exciting water brand for young adults and anyone who want more than just water. It is just the right kind of light; made from pure drinking water from your most trusted water brand, Wilkins, and infused with fruit flavors from real fruit.

“Young adults hate boredom. They want their lives to be interesting and colorful.”, said Coca-Cola Philippines Vice President for Marketing Stephan Czypionka. “[They] want to see new places, meet new people and taste new colorful products that are not only healthy and hydrate, but also entertain their taste buds.”

It’s a colorful, fruity twist that hydrates your body naturally, while at the same time excites your palette and teases your vision with fun light colors of amber – for the Apple infused flavor, pink – for that hint sweet taste of Pomelo flavor, and orange – for that fizzy Orange twist. The hydrating burst of flavors in the new Wilkins Delight will surprise Pinoy millenials to break-free from the monotony by adding color to their routinely lives.

“This is why today we create a new generation of water – a unique fusion of all the natural benefits from your no. 1 trusted water brand Wilkins (Pure) and all the joyful goodness and fun extracted from real fruit– great refreshing taste, amazing colors, and an endless option of interesting flavors from fruits!,” added Czypionka.

Media attendees, Coca-Cola partners and some of your favorite millennials in the local scene who graced the event experienced an afternoon of breaking free from their usual ‘everyday’ routines and get to enjoy tons of fun and colorful activities!

That’s not all as more surprises came with the reveal of the official TVC for Wilkins Delight along with the brand’s new powerful set of ambassadors – Kapamilya’s talented star Matteo Guidicelli and the Philippines’ very own Miss International 2016 Kylie Verzosa!

“As someone who’s from the beauty pageant industry, I need to take good care of my health and my complexion by drinking safe and pure drinking water. With Wilkins Delight, drinking water gets even more fun as it helps rejuvenate me — keeping my skin healthy. The good thing about Wilkins Delight is that it comes in three exciting fruit flavors. All three variants of Wilkins Delight are delicious, although my personal favorite is the apple flavored one. There’s definitely one for everyone!”, Kylie says.

Matteo also shared how important water is in his every day routine especially with his busy schedule as an artist, and a sports enthusiast —

“As an actor, singer and triathlete, water is always a must for me to help me stay focused, refreshed and energized. Wilkins has always been my no. 1 go to water for hydration. Now, drinking water doesn’t have to be boring because of Wilkins Delight! With the benefits of safe and pure drinking water of Wilkins (Pure) combined with the infused flavor from real fruits, my daily water routine just got more colorful with Wilkins Delight!”, Matteo added.

Wilkins Delight comes in three exciting flavors! Pink Pomelo, Apple and Orange. Each rehydrates the body because of the water, and tickles the tongue because it has real fruit juice. Wilkins Delight is now available in 425ml pack at the suggested retail price (SRP) of P15 in your leading supermarkets, groceries, and convenience stores; and in 250ml pack for an SRP of P10 in your favorite sari-sari stores nationwide.

Add flavor to your water. Add color to your life. Enjoy new Wilkins Delight.

National Book Store: Read Out Loud For A Better Future.

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Books have their own unique effect on each individual. When we get to hold books in our hands and flip through its pages, words enchant us, opening our minds to new experiences. There are books that inform and educate people, from general facts about life to how to cook exotic dishes. There are also books that take you on exciting adventures, scare you through thrilling feats, and of course, books that make you feel all kinds of love – even the unimaginable. Nothing beats the feeling of finishing a book and adding it to your bookshelf, knowing that you’ve been changed by what you read. While there may be thousands of books published out there, some just stick with us and are worth sharing with the rest of the world.

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Spreading the love for reading among Filipinos is at the core of National Book Store (NBS). This year, the country’s favorite book store is celebrating 75 years of creating a growing nation of readers and being a strong advocate for education.

As part of the festivities, NBS recently launched the Read Out Loud Challenge (ROLC) on Facebook and Instagram, aiming to promote the love of reading among Filipinos while supporting a good cause. The mechanics are simple. Post a video of yourself reading out loud an excerpt from your favorite book and challenge 3 other people to do it. When you upload to either Facebook or Instagram, add the hashtag #ReadOutLoudChallenge and tag National Book Store (@nbsalert).

For every 75 videos posted, the NBS Foundation will set up a library in a public school, complete with Project Aklat racks that consist of DepEd-approved books. Project Aklat is an initiative started back in 2006 by the NBS Foundation, and 400 libraries have been set up since then. Now, with the ongoing ROLC campaign, NBS aims to set up 100 libraries nationwide.

With such a worthy cause, it’s no surprise that celebrities and authors have taken on the ROLC. Leading them is no less than the founder of NBS and an advocate for literacy, Mrs. Socorro Ramos or Nanay Coring, as she is fondly called.

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While the ROLC will promote and support Project Aklat, the NBS Foundation will also launch the 8th year of Project Aral this April 7,2017 in all NBS branches nationwide. Project Aral aims to visit and help over 150 communities who lack basic school necessities. That’s why in this year’s Project Aral, there will be two different kits: The first kit which costs only 25 pesos contains 2 notebooks, 2 pencils, a sharpener, and an eraser. The second kit costs 50 pesos and contains 2 notebooks, 2 pencils, a sharpener, an eraser, and a pair of slippers – a great gift for children who currently have to make their way to school barefoot. But whatever kit you purchase will surely bring a smile to many Filipino children.

These are just a few of the activities in store for Filipinos as part of National Book Store’s 75th anniversary. There will be more to come, but for now, celebrate with NBS by accepting the Read Out Loud Challenge to spread the love for reading and help set up libraries nationwide. Time to bring your favorite lines to life! Shop online at nationalbookstore.com. Visit the NBS Blog (blog.nationalbookstore.com) and follow them on social media (@nbsalert) on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.