Delight in the healthy goodness of Villa Del Conte Bonta Dark Chocolates

Dark with White Cream and Cocoa Cookies 

Dark with Hazelnut Cream and Whole Hazelnuts

Dark with Cocoa Cream and White Chips

More and more people are now into dark chocolates because of its richer, more intense flavor. Dark chocolates also contain high levels of antioxidants which helps improve heart health.

It also has compounds that help boost the amount of endorphins in your brain which enhances your mood. You can now enjoy the goodness of dark chocolate in the most decadent way with Villa Del Conte’s Bonta Dark Chocolates.

These deliciously dark treats comes in three delightful flavors – Dark with White Cream and Cocoa Cookies, Dark with Cocoa Cream and White Chips, and Dark with Hazelnut Cream and Whole Hazelnuts. These guiltless artisanal chocolates from Padova, Italy are handcrafted, and are available at Villa Del Conte stores in Greenbelt 5, Century City Mall, Shangri-la Mall, Resorts World, SM Megamall, and Robinsons Magnolia.

For bulk orders and to know more about Villa Del Conte’s indulgent creations, contact 893-2575 or 621-6101, or follow Villa Del Conte on Facebook @VillaDelContePh and Twitter @villadelconte, and their new Instagram account @VillaDelContePh, or visit www.villadelcontecioccolato.com.

AXA launches new insurance product for today's ambitious market

AXA Philippines has launched MyAmbition, an affordable investment and life insurance plan that you can avail of online

Today’s young professionals are ambitious and often on-the-go. They work hard and at the same time want to pursue their own passions. As they focus on their careers, they want to maintain a work-life balance, and ensure that they are also preparing for their ultimate ambitions.  Some would want to travel around the world, have their own business, or pursue a pricey hobby like golf or scuba diving.

Recognizing the need for investment and protection of today’s discerning consumers, AXA has launched MyAmbition, an affordable investment and life insurance plan that you can avail of online.  Designed with your busy lifestyle in mind, the convenience of availing of an investment product with just a few clicks gives you an attractive option to help fulfill your ambitions in life.

MyAmbition can be availed of with a one-time investment that starts at only P50,000, a great opportunity to put that 13th month bonus or extra savings to better use.  You can also invest up to a maximum of P125,000.  The funds are professionally-managed by the AXA group to give you security and peace of mind.

MyAmbition gives you a range of options to suit your risk profile and financial goals.  There’s an investment fund for conservative investors, a balanced fund for those who have a moderate appetite for risk, and an aggressive growth fund for those who want to maximize the potential of their investments.

Application is easy. Just visit www.axa.com.ph, and click on MyAmbition.  You can assess your investment profile, pick an investment portfolio, and pay for the policy with your credit card. Debit card and other online payment options are also available.

Mr. Rahul Hora 

(President and CEO of AXA Philippines)

“Our innovative digital solutions address the unique demands of digital natives.  You can avail of MyAmbition through our e-commerce site.  You can also download MyAXA, the mobile app that allows our clients to access policy information anytime, anywhere.” says Rahul Hora, President and CEO of AXA Philippines.

On top of these benefits and conveniences, MyAmbition gives you life insurance coverage of 125% of the single premium or the Account Value, whichever is higher.  Should you choose to keep your funds longer, you can receive a Loyalty Bonus of 5% of the average account value to be paid on the 10th and 20th year.

Ms. Amor Balagtas 

(AXA Philippines Chief Customer Officer)

“We understand the needs of today’s professionals. MyAmbition takes their lifestyle needs into consideration – it is affordable, available online, easy to purchase, can meet various investment considerations, and is payable via a credit card. MyAmbition’s combined offering of affordability, convenience, and flexibility will definitely help young and mature Filipino professionals achieve their financial goals and fulfill their ambitions,” adds AXA Philippines Chief Customer Officer Amor Balagtas.

ABOUT THE AXA GROUP

The AXA Group is a worldwide leader in insurance and asset management, with 166,000 employees serving 107 million clients in 64 countries. In 2016, IFRS revenues amounted to Euro 100.2 billion and IFRS underlying earnings to Euro 5.7 billion. AXA had Euro 1,429 billion in assets under management as of December 31, 2016.

The AXA ordinary share is listed on compartment A of Euronext Paris under the ticker symbol CS (ISN FR 0000120628 – Bloomberg: CS FP – Reuters: AXAF.PA). AXA’s American Depository Share is also quoted on the OTC QX platform under the ticker symbol AXAHY.

The AXA Group is included in the main international SRI indexes, such as Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) and FTSE4GOOD.

It is a founding member of the UN Environment Programme’s Finance Initiative (UNEP FI) Principles for Sustainable Insurance and a signatory of the UN Principles for Responsible Investment.


ABOUT AXA PHILIPPINES

AXA Philippines is a joint venture between the AXA Group and the Metrobank Group, one of the country’s largest financial conglomerates. AXA Philippines is 2nd leading life insurance company in the country, with P21.6 billion in gross premium income reported in 2016, and over 811,000 customers protected under various individual and group life insurance products.

Most recently, AXA Philippines announced its entry into the non-life insurance business with the acquisition of Charter Ping-An, the 5th largest non-life insurance company in the Philippines.

For more information:
AXA Philippines
Donna Marcelo - (+632) 885-0101 local 3304

Prevent dengue this rainy season

The rainy season is definitely a refreshing respite after the blistering summer. However, it also comes with several illnesses and diseases and the most dreaded of all is dengue. Dengue is caused by a tiny bite of an infected mosquito but this little bite can cause serious health problems and could even mean death if not treated immediately.

“Due to the wet season, dengue-carrying mosquitoes lurk everywhere. As of now, there’s still no vaccine for dengue fever so the best course of action is prevention. You can do this by applying mosquito repellent, removing breeding grounds of mosquitoes and most importantly, keeping the immune system strong,” says Dr. Montoya, MediCard president and CEO.

To avoid serious health complications that dengue brings, MediCard, a leading HMO provider, gives a rundown on how to prevent it this rainy season:

Eliminate the mosquito habitat. Studies show that the most common breeding ground of mosquitoes is stagnant water. That’s why the most important step in getting rid of dengue-carrying mosquitoes is eliminating possible breeding grounds. These include spare tires, uncovered buckets and cans, flower vases and pots. It is also advised to empty and cover swimming pools.

Mosquito-proof your home. Another way to prevent dengue is by making your home dengue-proof by putting screens on the doors and windows. If possible, use an air conditioner at home. Make sure you sleep indoors, in a screened or air-conditioned room or under a mosquito net. Ward off mosquitoes by growing plants like citronella, marigold, and basil or use citronella or eucalyptus oil as air freshener. If you’re using pails in the bathroom, make sure they are always covered. Also remember to unclog the gutters and cover your trashcan because wet garbage or kitchen waste is another breeding area for mosquitoes.

Wear protective clothing. You can protect yourself from harmful mosquito bites by minimizing areas of exposed skin. Wear long sleeves, pants, and socks whenever you visit mosquito-infested places. However, avoid wearing dark clothes because they radiate heat which can attract mosquitoes.

Apply mosquito repellent. Protect yourself from mosquito bites especially when outdoors or when you go to mosquito-infested areas by applying mosquito repellent to all exposed areas of your skin. Dr. Montoya recommends that you use mosquito repellent with 10% concentration of DEET, an active ingredient that effectively deters mosquitoes.

Keep the immune system strong. The immune system fights viruses and infections, which is why it’s important to keep it strong to prevent dengue. Eat food rich in vitamin C like orange, tomatoes, papaya, broccoli, and dark leafy vegetables. “Food that is packed with vitamin C helps increase white blood cells, which protects the body from against infectious diseases and foreign invaders,” says Dr. Montoya.

Learn more on how to prevent dengue fever. MediCard has numerous free-standing clinics located in key cities nationwide that offer consultations, tests and vaccinations. Visit a MediCard clinic near you or check out www.medicardphils.com for more information.

Nikon celebrates 100th Anniversary

Iconic brand’s Spectacle Lenses unlock the future with the power of light
based on 100 years of technology

Nikon, the global leader in digital imaging and optics, is now a hundred years old! For a century, Nikon has relentlessly pursued the infinite possibilities of light, harnessing the power of lenses to contribute to the advancement of imaging culture and sciences.

Since its establishment in 1917 as Nippon Kogaku K.K., Nikon has been at the very heart of innovation and development. Starting out as a manufacturer of optical glass and optical instruments.  The optical lens business started in 1946 with the sale of the Pointal lens. Nikon has since then been a leading innovator in the field of ophthalmic optics with breakthrough innovations in material, design, and coatings.  In 1983, Nikon introduces a high performance anti-glare coating with true, built-in scratch resistance. This technology becomes immediately popular in Japan, where nearly all of
lenses now feature this type of coating.


This iconic brand has also contributed to the development of the optical industry, creating breakthrough technologies and high-quality, award-winning products in the process. It introduced the anti-glare coating, Hard Clear Coat (HCC), with true, built-in scratch resistance as early as 1983; the first ultra-high index lens, Index 1.74, in 2000; the first Single Vision lens, custom made according to frame shape – SeeMax – in 2002; and the first eye strain relief lens – Relaxsee – in 2005. Today, all Nikon Single Vision lenses feature its trademark Advanced Aspheric Design for sharp clear vision with limited peripheral distortion. Besides designing new digital lenses, it also continues to produce coatings that protect lenses against dust, water, abrasions and scratches, in addition to eliminating reflections and enhancing visual clarity.

In its pursuit of the endless possibilities of light, Nikon has gained extensive expertise ranging from optics and materials to image-processing and simulations such as ultra-thin ophthalmic lenses and digital cameras, to name a few. In fact, the quality of its products has earned praise among consumers around the world while setting the very standards recognized and adopted by eye care specialists themselves.

The brand “Nikon” inspires visionaries who share its belief that “some great things are not visible with the naked eyes, but perfect sight will allow you to see what it takes to achieve them.”

Filled with appreciation for the previous 100 years, Nikon moves forward to the next century, where its role will be in creating new values for a brighter future.

Experience Nikon's 100-year journey in pursuit of the possibilities of light by visiting www.nikon.com/100th. Watch past, present and future innovations from the brand come to life through a powerful commemorative video presentation at www.nikon.com/100th/anniversarymovie.

Nikon Spectacle Lenses are currently available in the Philippines through all optical shops and licensed eye care professionals nationwide. To learn more about Nikon Spectacle Lenses, visit http://nikon-lenswear.com and www.essilor.com.ph.

Academy of Pastry and Bakery Arts Philippines

Last week August 4, 2017, I was invited at the Academy of Pastry and Bakery Arts Philippines to celebrate their 2nd year Anniversary. The celebration happened at their School located at 4th floor Metrohouse Bldg. 345 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave. Makati City. The event started 6pm in the evening. Executive Pastry Chef Niklesh Sharma is one of the founders of Academy of Pastry and Bakery Arts Philippines while Executive Chef Christian Heidenreich is the Director of Operations of the Academy. Both of them are present during the event.

Chef Christian is an industry veteran having been a Chef for 35 years. Completing his early training in Europe, he decided to move to the Asia Pacific Region where he worked in numerous international first class Hotels. During his time as Executive Chef he served many international Dignitaries, such as US President Bill Clinton, HRH Prince Charles and the late Princess Diane, and numerous other leaders and VIPS. In the later stage Chef Christian got involved in Hotel Management. For the last 5 years Chef Christian was working in China lately as General Manager, Chef Christian has been involved in many Hotel Openings and therefore has a strong sense of hands on work, organization and has a keen eye for details while Executive Pastry Chef Niklesh Sharma is the founder of the Academy of Pastry Arts Group and manages the operations of school in Malaysia, India and Philippines. With a Bachelors degree in HoteL Management, Chef Niklesh started his career in the field of Pastry and Bakery. With more than 20 years work experience in hotels, he is an award winning Pastry Chef with great record of Opening Hotels, Renovations and upgrading's of Pastry Kitchens. He has worked in many luxury hotels and resorts, the last being Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel. He is a meticulous planner, with a strong hands-on approach in pre-openings and managing of big Operations, Distributions and Events.

We celebrated with the newly graduate chefs from the Academy. They are very thankful to their Pastry Chef instructors for what they have learned and achieved now.

Newly graduate chefs with the Executive Pastry Chefs and Resident Chefs

From left to right: Executive Pastry Chef Niklesh Sharma, Executive Pastry Chef Tan Wei Loon and Resident Pastry Chef Baptiste Jolivet, Pastry Chef Janelle Joy Toh, Pastry Chef Regulo Montes Jr., Pastry Chef Angelica Hong, hosts of the event (wearing black & blue) and lastly, Executive Chef Christian Heidenreich

Selfie with Executive Chef Christian Heidenreich and my sister Gerilen 

Executive Pastry Chef Tan Wei Loon making Sugar Art Display

Yummy delicious food was meticulously prepared by the Executive Pastry Chefs and their students including savory pasta, freshly baked breads, cakes, intermediate chocolates, pralines and ice cream! I really love cakes and all the cakes they prepared are sooooo delicious!

Table full of cakes, intermediate chocolates & pralines and Amazing Sugar Art work display at the center

Freshly Baked Breads

Macarons Tower

 Cakes

 Cakes

Intermediate Chocolates and Pralines

Academy of Pastry and Bakery Arts Philippines is a premier educational institution, where students train under the mentorship of world-renowned master chefs. It was established by France's legendary pastry master chef Jean-Francois Arnaud, who is a recipient of the Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF) 2000, a title tantamount to the rank of the best craftsman of France. Its three other branches are located in Malaysia and India.

This Academy is an International Pastry School offering world class programs! They are committed to bring a strong foundation for aspiring pastry chefs to help them and guide them to achieve excellence in the world of pastry, chocolatier, desserts and bakery. So, if you're dreaming of becoming a Pastry Chef someday, enroll now and get your World Class Diploma at Academy of Pastry and Bakery Arts Philippines!

For more information, visit their website:
www.academyofpastryandbakeryartsphilippines.com
Email: info@academyofpastryartsphilippines.com
Address: 4/F Metrohouse Bldg. 345 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Ave. Makati, Metro Manila
Telephone no.: (02) 8942395
Cellphone no.: 09172039089/09477558979

You can shine just like Elisse Joson with Fiona Cologne

Popular actress and influencer, Elisse Joson, is at the top of her game. Only 16 when she joined the crazy world of show business, she’s proven to have staying power after having been given roles in daytime and primetime TV series and even movies. Her big breakthrough came as the star in a recent series of ads for a popular fast food chain and she’s currently starring in Ang Probinsyano on ABS-CBN, opposite Mccoy De Leon, her rumored suitor. Just in the past two years, their team up has been nominated in five different award giving bodies, winning in four of them.

Elisse is just taking it all in stride. “I’ve been so busy and I’m really grateful for all the blessings. But I’m also my own worst critic. I experienced bullying in high school so words really have an impact on me,” she reveals. So she’s happy to partner with a brand like Fiona Cologne that aims to empower girls like her.

Fiona Cologne, with its charming and attractive scents, brings out the fun and beautiful in everyone and will naturally make its wearer shine in the spotlight. Elisse is the perfect choice for Fiona Cologne. She’s obviously very beautiful but she’s also effortlessly fun and has a quirky charm, making her positively magnetic.

Elisse admits being a fan of Fiona’s line up of scents ever since.  “There’s definitely a scent for all kinds of personalities. One of my favorites is Rosy Red, it’s my go-to everyday scent!” Elisse declares. She enjoins her fans to try Fiona Cologne so they can be just as confident as her, attracting compliments wherever she goes.

Fiona Colognes are now available in supermarkets, groceries, and drugstores nationwide.

A rejuvenating massage in Boracay amid a rainy day

       
Even with intermittent rain showers, huge waves and cool breeze, Boracay still has many great things to offer during the wet season. Beat the bad weather blues with a rejuvenating massage as Boracay has many spa houses where you can enjoy a soothing massage.

One of the best relaxing massages and spa treatments you can experience in Boracay is at the SunSpa, located at Sun Villa Beachfront, between Stations 1 and 2; and at Sun Villa Hilltop in Station 2.

SunSpa offers a wide array of massages and other beauty services that match your rejuvenating needs – whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple or barkada.

Pamper and soothe your tired body, mind and spirit with relaxing massages and other spa treatments such as SunSpa’s Body Massage, Bentosa (Cupping) Body Massage or Stone Massage. You can also enjoy a revitalizing Sun Treatment for your face and body, or give your tired feet a foot spa.

What’s more, you can also treat yourself with SunSpa’s body scrub or waxing services that will surely energize and give you a smooth, healthy-looking skin.

Not in the mood to go outside your bedroom? Experience a replenishing massage in the comforts of your hotel as SunSpa also offers hotel service, with no extra charge.

All services at the SunSpa are handled by experienced and highly trained therapists for a safe and quality pampering session you can experience in Boracay.

For inquiries and reservations, please call SunSpa Boracay at 63-36-288-5541, 63-36-288-4410, 63-36-288-5915, 63-36-288-1306 or 0998-987-6479.

My Vivere Salon Experience

Beautiful gorgeous hair? If you want something unique on your hair, come and visit Vivere Salon!

All the stylist of Vivere Salon are trained in the signature techniques of the Vidal Sassoon Academy, known for their easy to maintain, manage, wash and wear but unbelievably stylish approach to cutting. In Vivere Salon each snip and angle is designed to create shape, texture and form based on what is most flattering to their clients face shape.

They have the visual, modern and natural feel for what works on the client's hair they handle. They really have a great sense of style.

Team Vivere has expertly trained stylist and colorists that's inspired by the world of fashion, art and beauty.

They have a range of scientifically proven hair treatments from Schwarzkopf, designed to make everyday styling easier while ensuring the health of their client's hair.

The Salon has modern interior design that fits into your lifestyle.

Reception Area

Washing Area

My hair before they did everything 

My hair was rebonded last November 2016 and was colored last March 2017. Professional Hairstylist Sir Bryan Claudio noticed that my hair is so dry. And he rate it as 100% dry! I really can't believe it! So sad about that!

The first thing that they do is ready my hair for hair coloring. His assistant named Ms. Rose, shampooed and blowered my hair to removed oil and dirt.

My hair after blow dry and before hair coloring

With the help of Ms. Rose, they apply the hair color using Ash Dark Blonde to refresh the pigment of my hair.

They leave it for about 30 minutes then rinse it with running water and blow dry again.

Then they apply a hair treatment to make my hair soft and to recover from damages! After leaving it for about 30 minutes, Ms. Rose rinse it and blow dry my hair.

I can feel that my hair feels so soft and smooth! After drying my hair, Sir Bryan cut my hair into round layer. It gives my face a frame and as a hair contour also.

With Professional Hairstylist Sir Bryan Claudio

My experience in Vivere salon was great. The staffs are friendly and nice. They also offered me drinks. And Ms. Rose trying to massage my back while waiting for the time.

I'm so happy with the final result, my hair feels so good! l love my new hair color and my haircut!

Come and visit Vivere Salon to experience the more beautiful you!

And by the way, you can also purchase their products that are scientifically proven hair treatments

There are 10 branches of Vivere Salon, and the one i visited is located at 3rd Floor, Glorietta 2, Palm Drive, Makati City with Telephone Number (02) 812-3364.