Senate wants to know PHL’s preparedness for Ebola
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Is the Philippines ready for Ebola? This is the question the Senate committee on health will seek to answer in a hearing to be conducted Wednesday, October 22. Senator Teofisto Guingona III, chair of the Senate committee, said the hearing will focus on the preparedness of the country’s frontline agencies in dealing […]
Unbeaten Walters KOs Donaire for title
LOS ANGELES (AFP) – Undefeated Jamaican Nicholas Walters knocked out Filipino star Nonito Donaire with one second remaining in the sixth round Saturday to win the World Boxing Association featherweight title. Walters landed a powerful overhand right to the left temple that sent the champion crumpling to the canvas and referee Raul Caiz counted out […]
Kerry in SE Asia seeking support against IS
JAKARTA (AFP) – US Secretary of State John Kerry on Monday visited Indonesia, home to the world’s biggest Muslim population, to press Southeast Asian nations to step up efforts in the fight against the Islamic State (IS) group. Kerry was among foreign dignitaries in Jakarta for the inauguration of President Joko Widodo, a former furniture […]
Signage for largest Fil-Am mural in US unveiled
By Nimfa U. Rueda LOS ANGELES – Los Angeles City officials and Filipino-American community leaders unveiled the signage for the largest Fil-Am mural in the United States on Saturday. “I see this new sign as a bridge, in the same way that the mural has become a bridge to other cultures,” said Eliseo Art Silva, the […]
Hostages arrive at German embassy after ordeal
By Joel GUINTO MANILA (AFP) – A German couple kidnapped by Islamic militants were handed over to their embassy Saturday after a six-month ordeal marked by constant threats of beheading, as the Philippines confronted a security threat it thought it had overcome. Officials said a private plane flew Stefan Okonek, in his 70s, and his […]
Fil-Am one of two CA realtors honored for ‘changing clients’ lives for better’
LOS ANGELES – A multi-awarded Filipino-American realtor added another feather on her cap when she was chosen by the California Association of Realtors (CAR) as one of only two realtors for the “Champions of Home” Award for “changing their clients’ lives for the better, raising the standards for others, and led by example.” The award was presented […]
Schwarzenegger goes from Terminator to climate ‘Innovator’ Schwarzenegger goes from Terminator to climate ‘Innovator’
PARIS (AFP) – Hollywood legend Arnold Schwarzenegger has gone from being the “Terminator” to the “Innovator”, France’s Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius said Saturday, praising him for his work to prevent climate change. The actor turned politician was presiding over a climate change conference of the world’s regions in Paris on Friday and Saturday in the […]
Solidified vinegar and at-home beer brewing kits win innovation awards
(Relaxnews) – An at-home beer brewing kit, seaweed spaghetti and solid vinegar flakes could be coming to a grocery store near you, after winning awards at a major food innovation competition in Paris, an international event billed as a launching pad for many of the popular food trends that end up on consumer plates around […]
Amy Adams and Christoph Waltz pose under ‘Big Eyes’ in new poster
(Relaxnews) – The first poster for Tim Burton’s new feature was unveiled this weekend, showing the two stars in front of a painting by Margaret Keane. In “Big Eyes” — which seems to be closer in tone to “Ed Wood” and “Edward Scissorhands” than to “Dark Shadows” or “Alice in Wonderland” — the filmmaker tells […]
City of Carson to host women’s symposium October 25
The City of Carson Women’s Issues Commission will be hosting an educational program to promote the understanding and awareness of women’s issues and social services for women and their families on October 25. The symposium, “Women in the 21st Century”, will run from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald Community Center […]
Beauty tutorials: 60s-inspired looks from the Japanese runway
(Relaxnews) – We’ve noticed a number of retro looks on the runway at Tokyo Fashion Week, so we thought we’d take a look at how to get the effect at home. Mastering winged liner – http://youtu.be/TqR01QFlLEc Makeup expert Lisa Eldridge created this bold winged eyeliner look, which is perfect for hooded eyes. She pairs the dark […]
Art agenda: FIAC, El Greco in New York
(Relaxnews) – France welcomes another edition of its annual international contemporary art fair, FIAC, that extends along the banks of its river Seine, while the New York Met prepares a nine-painting retrospective on Spanish Renaissance artist El Greco. Foire Internationale d’Art Contemporain October 23-26 Grand Palais, Paris, France The capital’s annual art festival, with exhibitors […]
Colin Farrell for Dolce & Gabbana
(Relaxnews) – The Italian luxury label has nabbed the Irish star as the face of its new men’s scent, Intenso. Thirty-eight-year-old Irish actor Colin Farrell has been selected by fashion brand Dolce & Gabbana to star in a new campaign for an upcoming men’s fragrance set for release “in the coming months,” according to the brand. “We […]
Scarlett Johansson courted for ‘Ghost in the Shell’
(Relaxnews) – DreamWorks has reached out to the star about a role in its adaptation of the famous Japanese manga, Deadline reports. The American actress is said to have inherited the role from Margot Robbie, who had been attached since September. After “Lucy,” Scarlett Johansson could be headed for another sci-fi blockbuster. The actress, who […]
Billionaire donates cubism collection to NY museum
(NEW YORK-AFP) – One of the finest cubist collections in the world, painstakingly pieced together by a US billionaire and pledged to the Metropolitan Museum in New York opens to the public on October 20. Featuring 81 works of art by four artists, the museum says it will be the most important exhibition dedicated to […]
Filipino American Alliance celebrates 10 years of service
LONG BEACH, CA—On October 10 to 12, the National Alliance for Filipino Concerns (NAFCON), an alliance of thirty-one organizations throughout the United States, celebrated its more than 10 years of serving and protecting the Filipino community in the U.S. and around the world. In sync with the celebration of its “Dekada” (10 in Filipino), the alliance successfully gathered more […]
‘US can request custody of Marine in transgender slay’
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The Philippine government has the primary jurisdiction and custody over United States (US) servicemen who commit violations of Philippine laws, according to an official of the Department of Justice (DOJ). However, Justice Undersecretary Jose Justiniano clarified that under the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), custody over erring US soldiers is transferred to the […]
Aquino wants to keep tensions low in West PHL Sea
MANILA, Oct 16 (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III on Thursday called for more coordination among government agencies to keep tensions low in disputed portions of the South China Sea, which Manila calls the West Philippine Sea. At the Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) 113th anniversary, Aquino admitted that the situation at the West Philippine Sea, […]
Apple leaks iPad Air 2 and iPad mini 3
(Relaxnews) – While Google was revealing its new Nexus 6 smartphone and Nexus 9 tablet, tech websites started to buzz with new reports on the next generation of the iPad. Ahead of its keynote address on Thursday, Apple accidentally uploaded images of the new tablets as illustrations for its new iPad User Guide for iOS […]
Michelle Obama rocks out with turnip to promote good eating
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – US first lady Michelle Obama — showing she is willing to go the extra mile for her anti-obesity campaign — has busted out a few of her dance moves… with a turnip. In a short video message, Obama holds up a turnip, asks “Turnip — for what?” and then sways and nods her […]
Christian Bale in talks to play Steve Jobs in Danny Boyle’s biopic
(Relaxnews) – Two weeks after Leonardo DiCaprio turned down the role, Christian Bale is on his way to playing the Apple co-founder. The Hollywood Reporter indicates that the British actor was in Sony’s sights for the role at the start of the project, when David Fincher was still attached to direct. Now Bale has entered […]
The virtual doctor will see you now
(Relaxnews) – Google is testing a new feature that will let web users talk to a physician via video chat without leaving home. The search engine already doubles as most households’ family doctor — how many of us have visited a real life doctor armed with a diagnosis courtesy of Googling? — so why not […]
WHO tells East Asia Pacific to bolster Ebola defenses
MANILA (AFP) – World Health Organization chief Margaret Chan on Monday urged East Asian and Pacific countries to strengthen defenses against the Ebola outbreak, warning that the whole world may be at risk. The region of 1.8 billion has been a hotspot for many emerging diseases including Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome and bird flu, but […]
PNoy orders systematic, scientific evacuation of OFWs from Ebola-hit countries
MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Benigno Aquino III has ordered the “systematic” and “scientific” evacuation of over 1,700 Filipino workers from three Ebola-hit countries in West Africa, a Malacañang official said Tuesday. At a press briefing, Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said Aquino directed health, foreign affairs and labor officials during a meeting on Monday to […]
Palace mum on ‘Oplan Stop Nognog in 2016′
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Liberal Party has already answered accusations of black propaganda against Vice President Jejomar Binay, Malacañang said Tuesday when asked about “Oplan Stop Nognog 2016.” “Tumugon na ang matataas na opisyal ng Liberal Party. Palagay ko naman nabigyan na nila ng angkop na pagtugon,” Communications Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr. told Palace […]
AARP sponsors Festival of Philippine Arts & Culture during Filipino American History Month
WASHINGTON, D.C. – AARP was proud to sponsor the 23rd Annual Festival of Philippine Arts & Culture (FPAC), a celebration of Filipino food, music, dance, crafts and culture, on October 4-5 at its new venue, Los Angeles County’s Grand Park during Filipino American History Month. Nearly 25,000 visitors from around the country attended Southern California’s longest-running […]
NBI evidence may be used in VP Binay impeachment – De Lima
MANILA, Oct 14 (Mabuhay) – Justice Secretary Leila de Lima on Tuesday said the pieces of evidence the National Bureau of Investigation could gather may be used to initiate an impeachment complaint against Vice President Jejomar Binay. “Depende kung ma-validate at makakalap ng sapat na ebidensya na sinusuportahan at corroborate ang akusasyon o alegasyon ni […]
Iron Man returns for ‘Captain America 3’
(Relaxnews) – All becomes clear regarding Robert Downey Jr.’s ongoing involvement in Marvel’s crossover film franchises, as his Iron Man character is set to kick off a new story arc in “Captain America 3.” The addition of RDJ as Tony Stark/Iron Man means that Marvel’s Civil War storyline is set to move from comic book […]
McDonald’s invites customers to ask about pink slime and earthworms
(Relaxnews) – McDonald’s is hoping to dispel a few urban legends and set the record straight about its food in a new proactive damage control campaign that invites Americans to ask them questions in a digital forum via social media. The campaign dubbed “Our Food. Your Questions,” will take place across their social media channels […]
Chanel goes behind the scenes of Baz Luhrmann’s No. 5 film
(Relaxnews) – On Monday, Chanel made waves on the internet by releasing the first teaser for its new No. 5 campaign starring Gisele Bündchen. Now, on Tuesday, October 14, the brand reveals the making of the new advertising film. What is Gisele Bündchen running to or from? Why is the supermodel, the star of the […]
Aquino to lawmakers: Grant additional powers now
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III is confident that he will be given additional powers to address the looming power shortage in the summer of 2015. Speaking to reporters in Indonesia, Aquino said, “At the end of the day, sino kaya sa mambabatas natin ang magvo-volunteer na kung saka-sakali dumating ang brownout natin next […]
Maria Menounos, TV’s breakout star wears Oliver Tolentino
Celebrity Maria Menounos wore a red embroidered mermaid gown by Hollywood Filipino designer Oliver Tolentino last night in Los Angeles when she attended the Children’s Hospital Gala: Noche de Niños benefit. Academy Award-winning actress Natalie Portman was honored at the benefit. Tolentino has been worn by celebrities including Jessica Alba, Carrie Underwood, Fergie, Anna Paquin, […]
Hugh Grant dumps ‘Bridget Jones’ for good
(Relaxnews) – This weekend, the actor revealed that he will not take part in the third movie in the franchise starring Renée Zellweger and Colin Firth. After indicating a few months ago that the script was not to his liking, Hugh Grant confirmed to Free Radio that he will not reprise the role of Daniel […]
US Embassy working with PHL authorities in probing slay of transgender in Olongapo
MANILA, Oct 13 (Mabuhay) — The US Embassy in Manila is working closely with Philippine authorities in identifying the suspect in the killing of a transgender woman in Olongapo City over the weekend amid allegations the foreign companion the victim was last seen with may be a US national. The US Embassy sent its condolences […]
Aquino says foreign visits necessary
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Benigno S. Aquino III said his attendance to the 7th Bali Democracy Forum is important as the country builds strong relations with its neighboring countries in the Asia Pacific region. “Ang pagdalo natin sa Bali Democracy Forum ay patunay sa kahandaan ng Pilipino na makipagtulungan upang makamit ang mas matatag at […]
Anglahi presents: ‘The New Filipino: A talk on Jose Rizal by National Artist for Literature F. Sionil Jose’
Philippine national hero Jose Rizal once remarked that a useless life is a life not consecrated to a great ideal. Fast forward to the 21st century. With more and more Filipinos living abroad, the Filipino diaspora has truly become global. Nevertheless, the call to know one’s roots and to live a life of excellence – […]
‘Gone Girl’ remains at top of N. American box office
(LOS ANGELES-AFP) – “Gone Girl” stood tall atop the North American box office for a second straight week, fighting back competition from a number of new films, industry estimates showed Sunday. The mystery, starring Ben Affleck as a husband accused of murdering his wife (Rosamund Pike), raked in $26.8 million over the weekend, bringing its […]
Karl Lagerfeld’s cat poses with the new Opel Corsa
(Relaxnews) – What do Claudia Schiffer and Karl Lagerfeld’s cat Choupette have in common? For starters, both are spokesmodels for the new Opel Corsa. While the German supermodel stars in an ad campaign for Opel’s new city car, Choupette is the face of the 2015 Opel Corsa Calendar, shot by her famous owner. Tina Müller, […]
Tech agenda: TV Xperience 2014
(Relaxnews) – A busy month on the tech calender continues with an examiniation of the current state of television and where it’s heading in the future. TV Xperience 2014 October 13-15 New York, USA This year’s event will see appearances from Mashable, NBC and Universal, among others, detailing how the second screen and even the […]
‘Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs’ to become a TV series
(Relaxnews) – A new generation of kids came to know the 1978 children’s book story through the 2009 animated feature and its 2013 sequel. Now “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” is headed for the small screen. To turn the franchise into an animated series, Sony Pictures Animation has signed a deal with DHX Media, […]
Cookbook spotlight: ‘Baking Chez Moi’
(Relaxnews) – In her latest cookbook, popular author Dorie Greenspan aims to demystify French desserts and make them less daunting, with a collection of contemporary recipes that come from everyone from her French hairdresser to the average French household. ‘Baking Chez Moi’ is 496 pages of dessert recipes for the at-home cook. Traditionally labor-intensive French […]
Man dies of Ebola in Texas, as world toll nears 3,900
By Kerry Sheridan WASHINGTON (AFP) – A Liberian man who was the first person diagnosed with Ebola in the United States died in a Texas hospital Wednesday, as deaths from West African epidemic neared 3,900. Washington stepped up airport screening against the often fatal virus, and the World Health Organization sought to contain concerns of […]
World Bank: PHL growth recovery depends on gov’t spending
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The economic growth of the Philippines in the next two years will depend heavily on government’s ability to boost spending, according to the World Bank. The Washington-based lender said that while strong domestic demand will continue to drive the country’s overall economic growth, it will be public spending that will influence growth. […]
‘Blood moon’ awes sky watchers in Americas and Asia
By Daniel Woolls WASHINGTON, October 8, 2014 (AFP) – Stargazers in the Americas and Asia were treated to a lunar eclipse Wednesday, a celestial show that bathed the moon in a reddish tint to create a “blood moon.” During the total lunar eclipse, light beams into Earth’s shadow, filling it with a coppery glow that […]
Buffett would ‘bet money’ on Clinton becoming president
WASHINGTON (AFP) – Billionaire investor Warren Buffett said Tuesday he would bet money on Hillary Clinton becoming the next president of the United States. “Hillary is going to run,” Buffett said at Fortune magazine’s Most Powerful Women Summit in California. “Hillary is going to win,” he added. “I will bet money on it, I don’t […]
Ballet Philippines receives standing ovation in Los Angeles
Los Angeles, 08 October 2014. – The Philippine Consulate General welcomed the arrival of Ballet Philippines (BP) in Los Angeles. Ballet Philippines is headed by its President, Ms. Margie Moran-Floirendo and known for winning the second Ms. Universe crown for the Philippines in 1973. Godinus Executive Producer Becca Godinez and PAE Live Producer Ted Benito […]
Microsoft debuts new app for sharing photos across ecosystems
(Relaxnews) – Microsoft has created a new app that allows anyone to share photos with their friends, whether they own iPhones, Windows Phones or prefer Android. The app in question is called Xim and is the latest idea to come from Microsoft Research’s Fuse Labs. What makes it so newsworthy is that it’s a tiny attempt to […]
‘Iron Man 4’ is and isn’t happening, says Robert Downey Jr.
(Relaxnews) – Speculation builds around Robert Downey Jr.’s role in future “Iron Man” installments after conflicting quotes emerge from US talk shows. The Iron Man character will continue to appear in Marvel’s film franchise but may not get another solo film for a while. That’s the conclusion drawn from apparently contradictory statements that Robert Downey […]
‘Constantine’: NBC launches promo campaign
(Relaxnews) – Comic book fans have marked their calendars for October 24: the premiere date of the much-anticipated NBC series “Constantine.” The first poster and trailers are now available online. Twitter is abuzz following the release of new promotional materials for the new NBC series “Constantine,” adapted from the “Hellblazer” series from DC Comics and […]
Sci-fi novel ‘The Dark Side’ flies to Fox Pictures
(Relaxnews) – Hollywood is already taking advantage of the interest surrounding this year’s Frankfurt Book Fair as “The Dark Side” is given to the screenwriter for “Exodus: Gods and Kings.” Steve Zaillian wrote the script for biblical epic “Exodus: Gods and Kings” with director Ridley Scott and is on hand to adapt Anthony O’Neill’s sci-fi […]
Meet Dom: the US’s new pizza delivery man
(Relaxnews) – Siri might have the answers to life’s questions, but it’s “Dom” you need to go to if your query is pizza related. The Domino’s Pizza virtual voice ordering assistant is starring in his first national TV campaign in the US as of this week, having been revamped since the concept’s initial launch in the summer. The app, […]
2-day celebration for the 70th Anniversary of Leyte Landing in Carson Oct. 19
The Filipino Veterans Foundation /E.R.B. Foundation in cooperation with the City of Carson and Carson High School, hosts a 5-K Walkathon at the Carson Civic Center on October 19, from 8 AM to 12 Noon to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Leyte Landing. The walkathon starts and ends for 3 laps at the Rizal Monument […]
Pulse Asia: Senate, House see slight ratings improvement, but still below 50%
MANILA, Oct 7 (Mabuhay) – Both houses of Congress saw a slight improvement in their approval and trust ratings in the third quarter of 2014, but have yet to gain the nod of half of Filipinos, according to a new survey conducted September 8 to 15 by pollster Pulse Asia. The survey also showed the […]
Apple ups iPhone 6 Plus production: report
(Relaxnews) – “Bendgate” appears to have had little if any impact on sales of Apple’s first phablet, the iPhone 6 Plus. In fact, according to Digitimes, the company is in the process of adjusting supply chain ratios so that more examples of the oversized smartphone arrive in the shops to meet better-than-expected customer demand. The publication’s […]
Cookbook spotlight: Mark Bittman’s ‘How to Cook Everything Fast’
(Relaxnews) – New York Times food writer Mark Bittman has released another addition to his “How to Cook Everything,” series, this time with a cookery book that promises to teach readers how to cook everything — fast. In the 1,056-page tome, Bittman provides ideas on how to take shortcuts on traditionally labor-intensive meals like chicken […]
Malacanang welcomes new recognition for Philippine tourism industry
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The Palace welcomes the new recognition for the Philippines after the country was chosen as best destination in Asia Pacific, which could be a major boost to the Philippines aggressive tourism campaign. “Congratulations to our hardworking fellows from the Department of Tourism at nakuha po natin itong best destination in Asia Pacific,” […]
SC asks Pacquiao to comment on BIR bid to lift temporary tax case reprieve
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The Supreme Court ordered boxing champ Manny Pacquiao to comment on the bid of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to lift the restraining order and pursue the collection of over P3 billion tax due including penalties and surcharges. In a resolution, the high court gave Pacquiao 10 days to answer the […]
Largest European Frank Gehry retrospective to go on show in Paris
(Relaxnews) – Frank Gehry’s impressive body of work is going on show in Paris this week in a retrospective exhibition focused on the contemporary architect. The show will feature 225 of the Pritzker Prize winner’s drawings and 67 models, accompanied by texts and documentation. It will be organized around two key themes — “urbanism” and […]
‘Distant,’ a three part pan-Asian film, from ‘Ilo Ilo’ director
(Relaxnews) – Anthony Chen, who burst onto the international scene with “Ilo Ilo,” will executive produce three-part Chinese, Singaporean and Thai film project “Distant.” Tying the three 30-minute segments together will be a Chinese lead, but otherwise each part will be helmed by a different director and feature a different supporting cast, reports Variety. The completed […]
Kia Motors taps French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten in food collaboration
(Relaxnews) – At first glance the collaboration between a Korean car company and a triple Michelin-starred French chef sounds like a stretch. But Kia Motors has tapped Jean-Georges Vongerichten to develop an original menu that draws on Korean flavors and global cuisine to promote the brand worldwide. The collaboration has resulted in two menus that […]
Jeff Koons scultpure goes on show in New York
(Relaxnews) – A monumental Jeff Koons stainless steel sculpture has gone on show at New York’s Rockerfeller Center this week before being sold in November by auction house Christie’s for an estimated $20-30 million. The 20-foot-long “Balloon Monkey (Orange)”, which took seven years to create, is one of only five created by the American artist, with other […]
PHL suspends work on South China Sea military airstrip
MANILA (AFP) – The Philippines said Saturday it has shelved planned improvements on a military airstrip in the disputed South China Sea to support its bid for a UN ruling against Beijing over the tense territorial row. The Philippines infuriated China in March by asking a United Nations tribunal to declare Beijing’s territorial claims in […]
US Supreme Court clears way for gay marriage in more states
By Robert Macpherson WASHINGTON, October 6, 2014 (AFP) – Same-sex couples will soon be able to wed in up to 30 US states after the Supreme Court on Monday declined to consider – for now – a nationwide ruling on the divisive issue. In a surprise move, the court snubbed appeals from Indiana, Oklahoma, Utah, […]
Bike stolen in 1972, destined to Australia is intercepted at LA/LB Seaport
LOS ANGELES – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Outbound Enforcement Team officers at the Los Angeles/Long Beach (LA/LB) seaport, in partnership with California Highway Patrol (CHP) investigators and National Insurance Crime Bureau special agent, intercepted a stolen 60 year-old 1954 FL Harley-Davidson Hydra-Glide motorcycle, destined to Australia. CBP seized it on September 9 and […]
PAGASA: Lunar eclipse on Oct. 8; meteor shower later this month
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Sky watchers may want to mark October 8, Wednesday, on their calendars as that will be the date of a total lunar eclipse that will be visible in the Philippines. PAGASA’s astronomical diary said the eclipse will be seen from Asia, the Americas and Australasia, starting at 4:14 p.m. Philippine time and […]
CebuPac makes first flights to Saudi Arabia
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Philippine air carrier Cebu Pacific on Wednesday made its first inaugural nonstop flights between Manila and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia. Flight 5J-740, an Airbus 330, landed at the King Khalid International Airport at 10:30 p.m. with 259 passengers, the Department of Foreign Affairs said Saturday. “The arrival of Cebu Pacific in the […]
Gov. Brown approves ban on plastic bags
Heal the Bay led legislative fight to tackle plastic pollution, create green jobs SANTA MONICA, CA – Sending a powerful message nationally that the plastic pollution plague can be abated, Gov. Jerry Brown today signed landmark legislation that bans the distribution of single-use plastic shopping bags at grocery stores, convenience stores and pharmacies statewide. SB 270, a bill […]
Katy Perry tops global social media chart: Starcount
(Relaxnews) – Pop star Katy Perry is the most popular person on social media for the week of September 29 to October 5, according to Starcount, and country-turned-pop singer Taylor Swift takes the fourth-place spot on Starcount’s chart as she generates buzz for her coming album. Katy Perry enjoyed another successful week on social media, […]
Worldwide box office: suspense beats horror as ‘Gone Girl’ tops ‘Annabelle’
(Relaxnews) – David Fincher’s thriller starring Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike took first place at the worldwide box office, grossing $62.6 million during its first weekend in theaters. “Gone Girl” is also on top of the US domestic box office, where it earned $38 million. The feature adapted from Gillian Flynn’s suspense novel is just […]
Fondation Louis Vuitton almost ready for grand opening
(Relaxnews) – Paris’s brand-new Fondation Louis Vuitton is almost ready for its public debut. Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Frank Gehry, the striking glass building has been designed for the exploration of “artistic creation in all its forms.” Located at the Jardin d’Acclimatation in the city’s picturesque Bois de Boulogne area, the building will house a […]
Freediving champ hopes to set new record at first Dubai extreme sports expo
(Relaxnews) – Dubai’s Palm Island Drop Zone will host Fazza freediving champion Branko Petrovic in his upcoming attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest breath-hold underwater at the first-ever extreme sports exposition in the Middle East. The record for prolonged submersion, also called static apnea, of 11 minutes and 35 seconds was […]
Star-gazing parties and Skyping with astronauts during World Space Week
(Relaxnews) – Lovers of astronomy and all things related to the stars may want to bookmark the second week of October, when planetariums, classrooms and astrophysicists around the world celebrate the UN-initiative, World Space Week. Held each year between October 4 and 10 to commemorate the 1957 launch of Sputnik, the first man-made satellite, as […]
‘World Alliance of Religions: Peace Summit’ marks the beginning of a new era of peace
Int’l political and religious leaders commit to a new systematic approach for peace SEOUL, South Korea – Over 700 religious leaders and 50 heads of states attended the “World Alliance of Religions: Peace Summit” held on Sept. 17-19, 2014, in Seoul, South Korea, with the theme of “The Enactment of an International Law for the […]
LADWP reminds customers to conserve energy during upcoming heat wave
LOS ANGELES – As Los Angeles braces for another hot weekend, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) reminds customers to stay comfortable but conserve energy where possible, especially between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Just two weeks ago during the recent heat storm, energy demand in Los Angeles reached an all time […]
Church to hold job fair in Pasadena Oct. 15
Rose City Church and Rose City Coffee are hosting a job fair on October 15, Wednesday, at 11 a.m. Rose City Coffee exists to train homeless in our community in the craft of coffee. Dozens of employers will be on hand with positions available in Administration, Advertising, Clerical, Cafe/coffee, Customer Service, Education, Financial Services, Healthcare/Nursing, […]
LA abandons helipad rule in the hope of getting an “innovative” skyline
(Relaxnews) – City leaders in Los Angeles are hoping to cultivate a more creative skyline by eradicating the rule requiring each skyscraper to have a helipad on the roof. The move, announced by LA mayor Eric Garcetti this week, is an attempt to mix up the city’s flat-roofed high-rises with more stylish and contemporary designs, […]
World Architecture Festival kicks off in Singapore
(Relaxnews) – The 2014 World Architecture Festival (WAF) is underway in Singapore, where the industry’s biggest names have gathered to explore the theme of “Architects and the city”. The three-day festival of talks and keynote speeches looks at the relationship between architecture and the socio-economic and political balance of cities. Rocco Yim, the founding principal of Rocco […]
Dreamy blossoms in Bottega Veneta campaign by Ryan McGinley
(Relaxnews) – American art photographer Ryan McGinley has shot Bottega Veneta’s latest campaign for the men’s and women’s Resort 2015 collections on location in the New York Botanical Garden. McGinley is the latest photographer to take on the collaboration with the Italian luxury brand, with previous talents including Pieter Hugo, Collier Schorr and Nan Goldin, […]
Japan’s ‘shinkansen’ bullet train marks 50th birthday
(TOKYO-AFP) – Japan’s “shinkansen” train, which led the world in super-fast rail transport technology, celebrated its 50th birthday Wednesday with ceremonies hailing its contribution to the country’s post-war economy and its safety record. A sleek, airplane-shaped N700A train left Platform 19 of Tokyo’s central station at 6:00 am, exactly 50 years since the launch of […]
Pinoy UN peacekeepers to guard pope’s visit
MANILA (AFP) – The Philippines has assigned a thousand-strong force of its United Nations peacekeepers to help guard Pope Francis when he visits Asia’s main Catholic outpost next January, the military said Sunday. The papal security force will include more than 300 soldiers who were withdrawn from the UN-administered Golan Heights buffer zone after the […]
PHL, US launch joint exercises near China-claimed waters
PUERTO PRINCESA (AFP) – Thousands of Philippine and US marines on Monday began military exercises close to flashpoints in the South China Sea, where Beijing is involved in bitter territorial disputes with its neighbors. The 12-day amphibious landing exercises – involving about 3,500 US marines and sailors and 1,200 Filipino counterparts – were officially launched […]
PHL Consulate General co-hosts launch of 9th Annual Asian Friendship Golf Tournament
Los Angeles – The Philippine Consulate General co-hosted the launch of the 9th Annual Asian Friendship Golf Tournament at the Community Hall of the Philippine Consulate General on 24 September 2014. Consul General Leo Herrera-Lim welcomed the cooperation of the Asian American Chamber Association (AACA) composed of the Bangladesh, Cambodian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Malaysian, Mongolian, Pakistani, Singaporean, Thai Chambers […]
President Aquino arrives in Manila after five-nation official tour
MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Benigno S. Aquino III arrived in Manila Thursday evening after a working visit that covered five nations. His Philippine Airline PR001 flight from San Francisco, California, United States touched down at the Manila International Airport past 10:00 p.m. In his arrival speech at the NAIA Terminal 2, the President reported his […]
California passes first US ‘Yes means Yes’ sex consent law
LOS ANGELES (AFP) – California colleges welcomed Monday a new law requiring so-called affirmative consent for partners having sex on campus – dubbed a “Yes means Yes” law – in what is thought to be a first. Under the law, signed late Sunday by Governor Jerry Brown, partners will have to give “affirmative, conscious, and […]
Space travel and underwater tourism to become reality in 2024: report
(Relaxnews) – In just a decade, the travel industry will step into a revolutionary and historic new chapter for mankind: space and underwater travel. After gazing into their crystal balls, a group of futurologists and industry experts have issued a slew of prophecies in the final installment of a Skyscanner report that aims to paint a portrait […]
And then there were eight … Girls’ Generation ousts star
(SEOUL-AFP) – One of K-pop’s marquee acts, the girlband Girls’ Generation, has kicked out one of its star members, sending shockwaves through the group’s devoted fan base in South Korea, Asia and beyond. Jessica Jung, a prominent member of the nine-girl act that has toured to packed stadiums around the world, said she had been […]
PFW: fringes and flowers at Giambattista Valli
(Relaxnews) – Presented Monday in Paris, the Giambattista Valli Spring-Summer 2015 collection has a fresh, feminine feel. On the Valli runway there were plenty of flowers, as we’ve come to expect from the label, but also stripes, paisleys and a few abstract patterns. The dresses are short and lightweight, the skirts are high-waisted and paired […]
Lorde releases her ‘Mockingjay’ soundtrack lead single
(Relaxnews) – Lorde on Monday revealed her new track “Yellow Flicker Beat,” the lead single for the soundtrack to the upcoming “Mockingjay – Part 1.” Lorde announced back in July that she would be curating the soundtrack for the upcoming “Hunger Games” installment and that she’d written the lead single alongside Joel Little, who produced […]
Windows 9 to be a free upgrade: reportWindows 9 to be a free upgrade: report
(Relaxnews) – Microsoft is expected to officially unveil Windows 9 to enterprises and developers at a dedicated media event on Tuesday. And while potential new features are unclear, there is one feature that seems destined to appeal to most users. The consumer release of Windows 9 isn’t expected to come until early 2015. However, according […]
Daniel Radcliffe gets demonic in ‘Horns’
(Relaxnews) – Lionsgate unveiled a new teaser for French director Alexandre Aja’s new feature starring the former Harry Potter star. Fire, snakes and a pitchfork set the tone in the new teaser for “Horns,” in which Daniel Radcliffe transforms before the camera into a demon. Adapted from the novel by Joe Hill, “Horns” follows Ignatius, […]
New York opens buildings for “Archtober”
(Relaxnews) – New York’s skyscrapers will be under the spotlight next month with the launch of the fourth annual “Archtober“, a city-wide celebration of architecture and design. The festival will see the Big Apple throw open its doors for a series of guided tours, lectures and exhibitions throughout the month of October. Highlights include the […]
Watches & Wonders: women’s watches get technical, black is back, Asia reigns
(Relaxnews) – We check out some of the major market trends as Watches & Wonders kicks off. Running September 30 to October 2 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the event sees over ten thousand press and buyers from across Asia converge to explore this year’s models from 13 of the biggest luxury watchmakers. […]
Japan’s bullet train hits half century
(OMIYA-AFP) – Fifty years ago, the first bullet train pulled out of Tokyo station and hurtled across the countryside, heralding Japan’s arrival as a modern economic powerhouse with a transport system soon to become the envy of the world. Less than two decades after a bitter World War II defeat that left much of the […]
Prolific Prince goes funk, rock, sci-fi with two albums
(NEW YORK-AFP) – As the funky bass quiets down near the start of one of Prince’s two new albums, a soothing female voice informs that medication has put him in “suspended animation” for 45 years. Is the 56-year-old megastar speaking of his own career, or does the song imagine his body being frozen? No matter […]
Chris Hemsworth hacks to stop terrorists in ‘Blackhat’
(Relaxnews) – The “Thor” star has traded his hammer for a keyboard in Michael Mann’s new thriller, for which the first trailer has hit the internet. The release of a new Michael Mann movie is always a highly anticipated event. Now the director, who has been regrettably absent in the six years following his John […]
‘Gone with the Wind’ sweeps back for 75th anniversary
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – Rhett Butler may not give a damn, but fans of “Gone with the Wind” are more than happy to see the 1939 classic return to cinemas for its 75th anniversary. Special screenings are scheduled at 650 theaters around the United States on Sunday and Wednesday, while Turner Classic Movies is releasing a commemorative […]
Online dating: good for finding partners, bad for keeping them?
(Relaxnews) – Despite the surging popularity of online dating, it may not be the best bet for those looking to marry, according to researchers at Michigan State University, East Lansing, who set out to explore how couples’ meeting venues could play a role in the duration of the relationship. They examined married couples and couples […]
Record involvement of Asian American and Pacific Islander organizations in voter registration
AAPI voters among fastest growing, even in midterm elections WASHINGTON, DC – Asian Pacific Islander American Vote (APIAVote) today announced a record number of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) serving organizations will participate in National Voter Registration Day (NVRD), with activities leading up to, during and after September 23. The AAPI Islander populations are among […]
Long Beach medical equipment firm owner in $2.6-M Medicare scam gets 2½ year prison term
LOS ANGELES – The former owner of a Long Beach medical supply company was sentenced today to 30 federal months in prison and ordered to pay nearly $1.5 million in restitution for his role in a scheme to provide unnecessary power wheelchairs to Medicare patients. Akinola Afolabi, 55, of Long Beach, received the sentenced from United […]
Swing the Night Away with FASO on Oct. 18
Dance or simply listen to big band music, from Glenn Miller, Cole Porter to Duke Ellington, in “Swing the Night Away with FASO” on Saturday, October 18 at the Hilton Glendale. For the first time, the Filipino-American Symphony Orchestra (FASO), the first and only Filipino orchestra outside the Philippines, performs such big band gems as […]
The future of ultrasound: color photos and 4D imagery
(Relaxnews) – Baby pictures will never be the same again with the Voluson E10 Ultrasound, which offers color fetal photos more revealing than ever about what life is like in the womb. That’s not all the device will change, however, for diagnostic capability is likely to increase dramatically thanks to electronic 4D imagery that allows […]
‘We’ll Never Have Paris’ gets January date
(Relaxnews) – With Simon Helberg of “The Big Bang Theory” as writer, co-director and co-star, and his now wife joining him behind the camera, real-life interncontinental love story “We’ll Never Have Paris” is destined for a January 22 debut. That date is for a limited theatrical release in advance of digital VOD availability shortly after, […]
Ready for robot cheerleaders?
(Relaxnews) – They don’t get upset when dropped from the team, never forget a routine and never stress about diet and as great they are to watch and as social media-friendly as their performances are, Murata’s Cheerleaders also demonstrate a significant technological breakthrough. In order to balance on a ball and to move in synchronization, without colliding […]
New hope for hair loss as iGrow gets FDA clearance
(Relaxnews) – The machine that employs red light technology to promote hair growth in males was given the green light by the FDA last week for over the counter sales. iGrow Hair Growth System is intended for men whose hair loss patterns fall into categories IIa through V on the Hamilton-Norwood hair loss scale. This covers […]
Apple tops consumer computer satisfaction poll
(Relaxnews) – The latest American Consumer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) places the company’s desktops, notebooks and tablets ahead of all other manufacturers for the 11th year running. Apple earned an aggregate score of 84 out of a possible 100 which, although not as good as in 2013 when it scored 87, was still enough to keep […]
Johnny Depp crime caper ‘Mortdecai’ steals January date
(Relaxnews) – A minor reshuffle in the Lionsgate release calendar ensures “Mortdecai” avoids a face-to-face with the Wachowskis’ “Jupiter Ascending” and Jeff Bridges’ “Seventh Son.” Instead, audiences will be able to see Johnny Depp as art dealer and inadvertent internationally wanted man Charles Mortdecai, with Gwyneth Paltrow as discrete confidante Johanna and Ewan McGregor the […]
Hawkeye could make an appearance in ‘Captain America 3’
(Relaxnews) – Jeremy Renner hinted that his arrow-slinging superhero character could be among the faces of the third Captain America movie. In an interview with MTV, the actor commented on Hawkeye’s place within the world of Marvel and Disney’s movies. In denying any ambition to get his own solo feature, the actor indicated that he […]
Apple Watch tipped for Valentine’s Day debut
(Relaxnews) – It could well be a very happy Valentine’s Day for the technophile in love as mid-February 2015 looks like the date when the Apple Watch is ready to go on sale. That’s according to whispers heard by 9to5 Mac and The Information about the company’s plans for its first entirely new product since the original iPad back […]
US, researchers warn of new computer vulnerability
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – The US government and computer security researchers warned Thursday of a vulnerability in some computer operating systems which potentially allow widespread attacks by hackers. A warning from the US Department of Homeland Security’s Computer Emergency Readiness Team (CERT) said the flaw affects “Unix-based operating systems” powered by Linux and Apple’s Mac OS. CERT […]
Aquino urges U.S. firms to explore investment opportunities in PHL
NEW YORK, New York (Mabuhay) – President Benigno S. Aquino III on Tuesday urged prospective investors here to take advantage of new business opportunities the Philippines is ready to offer in light of its improved economy and especially since it is poised to hit the so called ‘demographic sweet spot’ by next year. “According to […]
Apple planning fast iOS8 bug fix
(Relaxnews) – An updated version of the company’s latest operating system is already in the works and could appear “fairly soon.” That is according to MacRumors. The publication claims that version .1 of iOS 8 has actually been in development for several weeks and when it is pushed out to compatible iPhones, iPads and iPod Touch […]
Nearly 700 held or probed in PHL, other countries in major Asia counterfeit sweep
LYON (AFP) – More than 660 people were arrested or put under investigation in a major police operation across 10 Asian countries that targeted criminal networks trading fake and potentially dangerous products, Interpol announced Monday. The international police organization said security forces and border agencies in countries ranging from Cambodia and China to India and […]
Asian Games: China defend basketball with new ‘Great Wall’
By Daniel HICKS INCHEON (AFP) – China are hoping a new version of their famous “Great Wall of China” can help maintain their Asian Games basketball dominance as they come under heavy attack from rivals. China, with players like towering NBA superstar Yao Ming, have won seven of the last nine men’s gold medals stretching […]
Robin handpicked Vina to be part of ‘Bonifacio’ biopic
Former couple Vina Morales and Robin Padilla have no qualms about sharing the big screen again for their movie “Bonifacio: Ang Unang Pangulo”, which is an entry to this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival. Padilla said he personally picked Morales to play the role of Andres Bonifacio’s wife, Gregoria de Jesus. “Ang nangyari kasi noon, […]
Aquino thanks donors from Boston for helping typhoon-devastated Visayan region
BOSTON, Massachusetts (Mabuhay) – President Benigno S. Aquino III has expressed his gratitude to Boston College and Filipino-Americans who had extended assistance to the victims of Typhoon Yolanda. “Without the help of our friends in the international community, the path to recovery and rehabilitation would not have been traversed as early and as efficiently,” the […]
Batman prequel ‘Gotham’ premieres on US TV
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – The backstory of Batman’s many villains came to life Monday in a new US television drama series that Fox hopes will help lift its prime-time ratings out of the doldrums. “Gotham” stars David Mazouz as a 12-year-old Bruce Wayne who witnesses the cold-blooded murder of his parents on the grim nocturnal backstreets of […]
Oscars’ Foreign Film category passes 50 films
(Relaxnews) – With just a week to go until the Foreign Language category deadline hits, more than fifty countries have made their official selections for the 2015 Academy Awards. Those titles include Cannes Jury Prize winner “Mommy,” directed by Canada’s Xavier Dolan, Brazilian LGBT favorite “The Way He Looks” from Daniel Ribiero, human migration story […]
Paris Fashion Week: labels, models and observers to follow on Twitter
(Relaxnews) – Ahead of the start of fashion week in the French capital on Tuesday, September 23, style enthusiasts can get ready by following some of the key players on Twitter. In an age in which news travels more quickly than ever before, Twitter offers something of a perfect compromise. Almost everyone in the fashion […]
MFW: highlights from the runway soundtracks
(Relaxnews) – Wes Anderson movie music, an ode to life in plastic and St Vincent: here’s our pick of the best beats that soundtracked the runway shows in Milan. Marni Consuelo Castiglioni picked Alexandre Desplat’s “The Heroic Weather-Conditions of the Universe Parts 1-7” as her runway soundtrack for Spring/Summer 2015. The music which was originally […]
Stella McCartney teams up with Jaguar at Paris Fashion Week
(Relaxnews) – The British designer and carmaker have joined forces to celebrate the new Jaguar XE during Paris Fashion Week. Luxury carmaker Jaguar, will be celebrating the new XE with a series of fashionable ‘Feel XE’ experiences to mark the car’s arrival in Paris, and Stella McCartney has dressed the car in a ‘superhero’ print from her Resort […]
Pechanga Resorts & Casino presents the amazing dance performance of ‘My Dream’
Internationally known for their beautiful dance performance of “Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva,” the world famous China Disabled People’s Performing Art Troupe will be returning to Pechanga for two shows on Saturday, October 11, 2014 at 4pm and 8pm. The China Disabled People’s Performing Art Troupe uses its unique artistic charm and profound spiritual connotation that is beyond […]
Germany backs PHL’ position to settle territorial disputes peacefully
BERLIN, Germany (Mabuhay) – President Benigno S. Aquino III and German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Friday agreed that the territorial disputes in the South China Sea must be settled peacefully in accordance with international law. President Aquino, who is in Germany for the last leg of his four-nation European tour, met with Chancellor Merkel at […]
James Franco and Seth Rogen head to North Korea in ‘The Interview’
(Relaxnews) – Sony has released a new red-band trailer for “The Interview,” the latest movie from writer and director duo Evan Goldberg and Seth Rogen. “The Interview” stars James Franco as Dave Skylark, a TV talk show host, and Seth Rogen as his producer Aaron Rapoport. Tired of the tabloid-style celebrity news that makes their […]
‘Paper Towns’ given June 2015 date
(Relaxnews) – Jake Schreier’s adaptation of John Green novel “Paper Towns” benefits from a 20th Century Fox reshuffle, vacating its end of July window in favor of a June 19 debut, while “Fantastic Four,” “Deadpool” and “Assassin’s Creed” form part of the shuffle. With rising star Cara Delevingne starring opposite “The Fault in Our Stars” […]
Historic Filipinotown Indie Film Festival’s launching Oct. 15 at FACLA
Los Angeles – Filipino Independent Films or Indie Films’ in Town, specifically, in FilipinoTown. The Historic Filipinotown Indie Film Festival LLC (HFIF LLC) has announced that the Historic Filipinotown Independent Film Festival that will feature Filipino and Filipino-American independently-produced films from the Philippines will be launched on Wednesday, at 6 p.m. on October 15, 2014 at the Filipino American Community […]
Rolls-Royce and Turner prize-nominated artist team up for Frieze London installation
(Relaxnews) – Rolls-Royce has teamed up with Turner Prize nominee Angela Bulloch to create an installation at London’s Frieze Art Fair this fall. Entitled “Cipher of L”, the work will take the form of a ‘Pixel Box’ installation that mimics the properties of a Rolls-Royce vehicle. Incorporating both the physical and conceptual elements of the car, it will be […]
Asian Games: South Korean leader lets the Games begin
(INCHEON-AFP) – South Korean President Park Geun-Hye opened the Incheon Asian Games at a glittering, K-Pop inspired ceremony Friday as North Korean athletes received an unexpectedly warm welcome. “I declare the opening of the 17th Asian Games,” Park said simply, after athletes from 45 countries had filed into Incheon’s purpose-built main stadium. “Gangnam Style” singer […]
27,000 new US citizens during annual Constitution Day and Citizenship Day celebration
WASHINGTON – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will welcome more than 27,000 new citizens in more than 160 naturalization ceremonies between Sept. 17 and Sept. 23 in honor of Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. During this week – also known as Constitution Week – museums, historic and public libraries, government landmarks and national park […]
Gov signs bill to reinstate Gun Violence Prevention Law
Authorizes eviction of tenants who commit gun crimes on property SACRAMENTO – Governor Edmund G. Brown, Jr. has signed into law a bill reinstating a pilot program authorizing specified City Attorneys, including Los Angeles, to evict tenants who unlawfully possess or sell illegal firearms or ammunition on the premises. The pilot program sunset on January […]
US House approves bill averting gov’t shutdown
WASHINGTON (AFP) – US lawmakers voted Wednesday to extend funding for federal operations into December, likely preventing a repeat of last October’s disastrous government shutdown. Faced with the need to act before fiscal year 2015 begins on October 1, members of the House of Representatives voted 319-108 to keep government funded at current levels until […]
Jolie to direct film about Kenya conservationist
(LOS ANGELES-AFP) – Angelina Jolie is to direct a “sweeping epic” film about veteran Kenyan conservationist Richard Leakey’s fight with ivory poachers, the studio behind the movie said Friday. The Oscar-winning actress — whose latest film as director, “Unbroken,” is out in December — will go behind the camera once again for “Africa,” with a […]
Paris installs glass panels in a test to end love locks
(Relaxnews) – Paris may have found a solution to their love lock problem: glass panels. This week the city replaced sections of mesh fencing on the city’s iconic footbridge, Pont des Arts, with two shatter-resistant and anti-glare glass panes, reported No Love Locks, a group that has been campaigning for an end to the practice […]
PHL, France agree to continue addressing climate change
PARIS, France (Mabuhay) – The Philippines and France have agreed on the need for concrete and effective results for climate talks in order to move forward efforts in dealing with the threats of climate change. During a bilateral meeting between President Benigno Aquino III and French Republic President Francois Hollande here on Wednesday, both leaders […]
Stay Puft Marshmallow Man brought to life at Krispy Kreme
(Relaxnews) – Krispy Kreme is paying tribute to Hollywood’s sweetest, and perhaps most likeable, paranormal villains with the release of two marshmallow-filled donuts to help mark the 30th anniversary of the “Ghostbusters” movie franchise. “Ghostbusters” fans will no doubt recognize the friendly — but treacherously villainous — smile of the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man in […]
Commemorative 9/11 museum receives more than one million visitors
(Relaxnews) – The 9/11 Memorial Museum reached a major milestone near the anniversary of America’s darkest day, receiving more than one million visitors just four months after opening. In addition to visitors from all 50 US states, the museum also received visitors from more than 130 countries. The biggest international source countries are UK, Canada, […]
Apple’s new encryption to lock out government
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – Apple unveiled new policies that block its access to user’s mobile devices, even with a warrant, the tech giant revealed late Wednesday. Apple’s updated privacy terms indicate that under its new mobile operating system, iOS 8, the company will not have access to customer passwords. “Your personal data such as photos, messages (including […]
K Brosas relishes good chemistry with Richard Gomez
For someone who is known to talk a lot especially during her famous live shows, comedienne K Brosas says it’s not easy to keep silent on her latest gig, TV5’s newest game show, “Quiet Please: Bawal ang Maingay.” “Mahirap manahimik lalo na kapag marami kang oras na kailangan mong tumahimik. Kasi hindi talaga pwedeng mag-ingay […]
PHL, France agree to continue addressing climate change
PARIS, France, Sept 18 (Mabuhay) – The Philippines and France have agreed on the need for concrete and effective results for climate talks in order to move forward efforts in dealing with the threats of climate change. During a bilateral meeting between President Benigno Aquino III and French Republic President Francois Hollande here on Wednesday, […]
Wildfires rage across drought-hit California
LOS ANGELES (AFP) – As many as 6,000 firefighters were battling Tuesday a wave of wildfires raging across California, which is gripped by a historic drought and near-record temperatures. Thousands of residents have been evacuated and buildings ravaged in at least one of the fires in northern California, while southern California has been hit by […]
San Francisco first city to condemn abortion ban legislation that promotes racial stereotypes on Asian American women
NAPAWF applauds new legislation that protects women’s health NEW YORK – Tuesday, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors passed a resolution opposing “sex-selective abortion bans” that discriminate against Asian American women and restrict access to reproductive health care. San Francisco is now the first city in the nation to proactively oppose the legislative strategy […]
US House approves bill averting gov’t shutdown
WASHINGTON, September 17, 2014 (AFP) – US lawmakers voted Wednesday to extend funding for federal operations into December, likely preventing a repeat of last October’s disastrous government shutdown. Faced with the need to act before fiscal year 2015 begins on October 1, members of the House of Representatives voted 319-108 to keep government funded at […]
Early reviews heap praise on big-screen iPhones
(SAN FRANCISCO-AFP) – Early reviews of Apple iPhone 6 models to be released on Friday sang praises of the large-screen handsets, proclaiming that bigger truly is better. “The public asked for bigger and Apple delivered not only bigger but better, too,” tech news website Slash Gear said in its review. “A stunning Retina HD display, […]
US Army invites women to try out for elite Ranger school
WASHINGTON (AFP) – The US Army is inviting female soldiers to apply to the grueling Ranger school, officials said Monday, part of the military’s effort to open the door to women serving in ground combat. The prestigious Ranger school has been closed to women until now. But the army wants to study the possibility of […]
Official synopsis revealed for ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’
(Relaxnews) – In the second movie on the Marvel superhero team, due in theaters next spring, the original protagonists are joined by a few newcomers. Marvel and Disney revealed the official plot summary for “The Avengers: Age of Ultron” through the website Stitch Kingdom. In “the epic follow-up to the biggest Super Hero movie of […]
Whitney Houston live album due in November
(LOS ANGELES-AFP) – Nearly three years after her death, an album and DVD of live performances by Whitney Houston is to be released in November, her long-time producer announced Tuesday. “She was without question the greatest vocalist in the world,” Clive Davis told NBC television announcing the November 10 release of “Whitney Houston Live: Her […]
Filipino singing star Angeline Quinto, with special guest Jon Secada, at Pala, Nov. 22
PALA, CA … Popular Filipino singing star Angeline Quinto, with special guest Jon Secada, will appear in concert at 7 p.m., Saturday, November 22, in the Infinity Showroom at Pala Casino Spa & Resort. Quinto came to prominence in 2011 after she won Star Power: Sharon’s Search for the Next Female Superstar in Manila, which earned her a recording contract with Star […]
‘I Know What You Did Last Summer’ reboot in the works
(Relaxnews) – Sony is developing an update on the horror movie originally headlined by Jennifer Love Hewitt, Sarah Michel Gellar, Ryan Phillipe and Freddie Prinze Jr, Deadline reveals. Released in 1997, “I Know What You Did Last Summer” joined “Scream” as part of a new wave of slasher movies, a horror sub-genre in which a […]
UN troops withdraw from Syrian Golan: AFP
GOLAN HEIGHTS (AFP) – Hundreds of UN troops withdrew from the Syrian to the Israeli-occupied sector of the Golan on Monday, an AFP correspondent said, two weeks after Al-Qaeda-linked rebels kidnapped dozens of peacekeepers. They crossed in a UN convoy in the afternoon into the Israeli-occupied sector, the correspondent said. The peacekeepers in the Golan […]
Evacuations of 1,000 people after forest fires near Yosemite
LOS ANGELES (AFP) – A thousand people were evacuated near Yosemite National Park in central California on Sunday due to fires triggered by a weekend heatwave that are threatening hundreds of homes. The blaze that began near Bass Lake has already burned 330 acres (133 hectares) in a matter of hours. None of the fire […]
LADWP encourages customers to conserve energy as temps soar
Utility offers energy saving tips to stay cool while protecting the grid LOS ANGELES – As temperatures in Los Angeles rise to triple digits today through Wednesday, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) encourages its customers to save energy where possible between now and 8 p.m.and to give appliances the afternoon off. […]
Mayweather says he isn’t evading Pacquiao
‘If a Pacquiao fight presents itself then let’s make it happen’ – Floyd By Greg Heakes LAS VEGAS (AFP) – Boxer Floyd Mayweather, fresh off his lopsided victory over Marcos Maidana, denied he is trying to safeguard his undefeated record by avoiding Filipino superstar Manny Pacquiao. Mayweather has admitted he handpicked opponents in the past […]
De Castro, new PHL honorary consul for San Diego
Los Angeles – Consul General Leo Herrera-Lim congratulates newly appointed PHL Honorary Consul Audie de Castro for San Diego, CA. Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. administered the oath taking of Mr. de Castro’s at Malacañang Palace in Manila on 30 August 2014. Honorary Consul Audie de Castro, is the founder of de Castro, P.C. Attorneys & […]
President Aquino leads wreath-laying at Rizal Monument in Madrid
MADRID, Spain September 15, 2014(Mabuhay) – President Benigno S. Aquino III on Sunday led the wreath-laying ceremony here at the monument of Philippine national hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal. President Aquino, accompanied by his official delegation, paid tribute to Dr. Jose P. Rizal, whose monument at Avenida de las Islas Filipinas was a replica of […]
Villains and goblins steal the show from Mickey and Harry Potter
(Relaxnews) – Death Eaters, evil stepmothers, twisted fairies, ghosts and goblins are getting ready to steal the spotlight from their more heroic nemeses at theme parks around the world as Halloween draws near. It’s perhaps the one occasion when everyone’s favorite animated and fictitious villains can emerge from the shadow and bask in their evilness. […]
Foul-mouthed Thug Kitchen cookbook hits shelves next month
(Relaxnews) – Gangsta vegan blog Thug Kitchen, which has enjoyed viral success thanks to a shout-out from Gwyneth Paltrow and recipes peppered with F-bombs in creative — and comedically timed — places will hit shelves in October in book form. In just two years, the anonymously-penned blog Thug Kitchen has become a viral hit, with […]
PHL exports up 12.4% in July, 2nd fastest in East and Southeast Asia after China – NEDA
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Merchandise exports grew by 12.4 percent in July 2014, largely on higher revenues from manufactured and agro-based products, the National Economic and Development Authority said Wednesday. Citing a report by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), NEDA said the value of merchandise exports grew to $5.5 billion during the period from $4.9 billion […]
Hong Kong-born alumnus gives Harvard $350 million
NEW YORK (AFP) – A Hong Kong-born venture capitalist is giving Harvard University $350 million for its School of Public Health, the largest donation in the university’s history, the Harvard Crimson reported Monday. The university newspaper said the gift was from a foundation supported by Gerald Chan, an alumnus of the School of Public Health […]
Consumers not impressed by the Apple Watch
(Relaxnews) – Only one in ten consumers said that they would definitely be buying Apple’s first wearable technology device. That is according to Tolunda QuickSurveys. It polled over 1000 US consumers about their first impressions regarding Apple’s new iPhones and Apple Watch and discovered that while the company’s latest handsets have hit the mark, consumers […]
Sylvester Stallone to direct ‘Rambo 5’
(Relaxnews) – After helming the fourth installment in the franchise, the actor will return to the director’s chair — and to the camouflage headband — for “Rambo: Last Blood,” ComingSoon reveals. “First Blood” was the name of the first movie in the franchise, released in 1982. So the title chosen for the next installment could […]
Will BlackBerry be the next company to launch a smartwatch?
(Relaxnews) – The company is examining the potential of both BlackBerry smartwatches and smart glasses. Speaking to the press at Super Mobility Week in Las Vegas, Nevada this week, John Simms, the company’s president of enterprise solutions was quoted as saying: “We’re doing internal research on different wearables,” and confirmed that the research wasn’t limited to wrist-worn […]
‘Hello Kitty’ plane to fly Taipei-Paris route from late October
(Relaxnews) – The Taiwanese airline Eva Air, which has operated Hello Kitty flights between Taipei and Los Angeles since September 2013, will launch the same offer to and from Paris from October 29. From the plane’s exterior to its seats, not to mention the flight attendants’ uniforms, every detail of this special service is related […]
London opens up its famous buildings for free architectural weekend tour
(Relaxnews) – Ever fancied having a peek around London’s most famous buildings? “Open House London” is offering visitors the chance to do just that, with 800 of the capital’s buildings opening their doors to the public for one weekend this fall, including Burlington House and the Museum of the Order of Saint John. Contemporary architectural […]
Michelin Guide Fukuoka, Japan now available online in English
(Relaxnews) – Foodies worldwide can now browse the restaurants of the special-edition Michelin Guide to the Japanese city, which was published exclusively in the local language last July. The French company’s first guidebook on the restaurants of Fukuoka, located on the northern shore of the island of Kyushu, is now available in English through the […]
Netflix: the revolution that changed the US TV landscape
(LOS ANGELES-AFP) – From doorstep DVD delivery to binge-watching on tablets and phones: In 17 years Netflix has revolutionized the US television industry several times over. The company — which is about to arrive in France, Switzerland, Belgium, Germany and Austria — has also totally revamped the relationship Americans have with both TV shows and […]
Families to ‘Walk n’ Roll’ on Sept. 20 for ataxia that afflicts many
Fil-Ams among victims of debilitating disease By Rhony Laigo If not for the worldwide campaign of the Ice Bucket Challenge, the Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig’s disease may have been just that – a disease that has no cure. But unknown to many, another debilitating disease that affects many, and ironically even the […]
Aquino to seek additional powers amid energy deficit
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Anticipating the power shortages next year, President Benigno Aquino III on Thursday announced that he will be seeking additional powers to address the problem. “Very soon, we will formally ask Congress for a joint resolution, that will authorize the national government to contract an additional generating capacity to address the 300-megawatt projected […]
8 nabbed in $65-M cold cash money laundering operations in fashion district
1,000 law enforces raid Mexican drug cartel out accounts in downtown Los Angeles LOS ANGELES – Approximately 1,000 law enforcement officials this morning fanned out across the Fashion District in downtown Los Angeles to execute dozens of search warrants and arrest warrants linked to businesses suspected of using “Black Market Peso Exchange” schemes to launder narcotics […]
Increasing demand for passports causes delays – DFA chief
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is addressing concerns related to the processing of passports of Filipino applicants amid complaints of delays, Secretary Albert Del Rosario said. “The increasing demand is being addressed,” Del Rosario told the appropriations committee at the House of Representatives at the hearing of the budget of the […]
Pres. Aquino files bill for Muslim autonomy
MANILA (AFP) – Philippine President Benigno Aquino sent to parliament Wednesday a proposed law to grant autonomy to minority Muslims, a crucial step in his attempt to end one of Asia’s longest rebellions. The submission to Congress is seen as significant as it means Aquino and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) have agreed, after […]
Zaha Hadid Architects to design Mathematics Gallery for London Science Museum
(Relaxnews) – Zaha Hadid Architects is set to design a pioneering new Mathematics Gallery for London’s Science Museum, following a £5 million charitable donation to the establishment. The new permanent gallery will explore how mathematicians and their work have shaped the modern world since the 17th century. “The design explores the many influences of mathematics in our everyday […]
NYFW: Jeremy Scott’s runway kaleidoscope
(Relaxnews) – The American designer, famed for his pop-culture club kid mashups, showed his Spring/Summer 2015 collection in New York City, with a little help from singer Miley Cyrus. After his recent successes in Milan with Italian brand Moschino, it was time for a party in the USA, and in true style, Jeremy Scott didn’t […]
Kate Winslet meets the French monarch in ‘A Little Chaos’
(Relaxnews) – Seventeen years after “The Winter Guest,” Alan Rickman returned to the director’s chair to helm “A Little Chaos,” a period romance in which he also stars as Louis XIV. Entertainment Weekly has revealed the first clip from the film, which will close the Toronto Film Festival. Headlined by Kate Winslet and Belgian actor […]
DFA’s Del Rosario grilled over PHL-US defense agreement
MANILA (Mabuhay) – A solon grilled the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (Edca) exempting American soldiers from paying taxes while they are in the country, but a Cabinet official said this is standard practice in mutual defense pacts. During the DFA’s budget deliberations in the House of Representatives on […]
Chef Joel Robuchon to release cookbook for well-being
(Relaxnews) – Stewing in anger and need to calm down? Tuck into oysters or clams to cool off and regain composure. Just suffered from a traumatic event? Find serenity with a plate of green asparagus with Parmesan shavings. These are some of the recommendations made in Michelin-starred chef Joel Robuchon’s upcoming cookbook, penned with a […]
Musical all-stars take up Paul McCartney in new album
(NEW YORK-AFP) – Bob Dylan, B.B. King and The Cure have all been covered extensively in their own right, but the artists have come together to interpret a giant — Paul McCartney. On a new album that is striking for the caliber of performers, McCartney’s longtime back-up band entered the studio with leading acts who […]
NYFW: Jenny Packam pays tribute to Marilyn Monroe
(Relaxnews) – For the Spring-Summer 2015 season, British designer Jenny Packham chose to honor the iconic movie star with a collection full of sequins and sensuality. This fashion week has already seen a number of lines inspired by 1950s/60s style, and Jenny Packham confirmed the trend on Tuesday afternoon with her latest collection, an homage […]
London Fashion Week: ones to watch
(Relaxnews) – Here’s our pick of the hot tickets this season at the fashion shows in the UK capital, which kick off Friday. Twitter goes e-commerce The Burberry show, set to take place on September 15, normally has a tech twist up its trenchcoat sleeve. This season the London brand has the pleasure of […]
The Apple Watch – worth the wait?
(Relaxnews) – After almost two years of speculation, Apple’s first smartwatch, simply called Apple Watch, is finally a reality. And as expected from any device that was developed under the watchful eyes of Jony Ive, it’s as stylish as it is potentially useful. But good looks alone do not guarantee a device is going to […]
California to be first US state to ban plastic bags
LOS ANGELES (AFP) – California governor Jerry Brown said late Thursday he will approve a ban on single-use plastic bags, in what would make the western US state the first to outlaw them. Lawmakers passed the bill late last Friday, and it now only requires Brown’s signature to pass into law. The governor must do […]
Aquino on Senate probe on Binay: Truth will set us free
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Amid the claim of Vice President Jejomar Binay’s camp that the Senate probe on the allegedly overpriced Makati building is politically-motivated, President Benigno Aquino III stressed the importance of searching for the truth. “At the end of the day the truth will set us all free,” Aquino on Monday said. He, however, […]
FACLA feeding program/food distribution for Fil-Ams on Sept. 27
Los Angeles – The HIFI CALI EXPO LLC, Filipino Ministry of the Wilshire United Methodist Church of Wilshire ( FM-WUMC) and the Filipino American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA) will hold a feeding program/food distribution for Fil-Ams on Saturday, September 27, 2014 from 9-11 a.m. FACLA Director and Ms. FILAM INTERNATIONAL LLC President Bernie Targa-Ganon “ The feeding program has been […]
Apple’s new products and services
(SAN FRANCISCO, Sept 09, 2014 (AFP)-AFP) – In an ambitious series of launches, technology giant Apple unveiled a range of new products and services at its event on Tuesday. Here is a list: – Big-screen iPhones Apple is stretching the screen size for its iPhones to better compete with devices from Samsung and others. The […]
Aquino to seek Europe’s help in China sea dispute
MANILA (AFP) – President Benigno Aquino will seek European support for Philippine efforts to resolve maritime territorial disputes with China during a week-long visit to EU nations including France and Germany, a foreign ministry official said Monday. Aquino will also raise his proposal to stop China from further escalating tensions in the strategically-vital South China […]
Hofman’s giant white rabbit wows Taiwan
(TAIPEI-AFP) – The Dutch artist whose huge inflatable yellow duck caused a sensation in Asia has now drawn more than one million visitors with a giant white rabbit on show in Taiwan, organisers said Monday. Florentijn Hofman’s creation, made of waterproof paper material, wood and polystyrene, stands 25 metres (82.5 feet) tall. The beaming bunny […]
NYFW: layering and volumes at DKNY
(Relaxnews) – Donna Karan loves her hometown, and her label DKNY has always reflected the energy and personality of the Big Apple. For the Spring-Summer 2015 season, the brand stays true to its reputation with a collection that is brimming with creativity and urban style. At the DKNY show, models comfortably walked the runway in […]
Water police on patrol in drought-scarred Los Angeles
By Guillaume Meyer LOS ANGELES (AFP) – Los Angeles isn’t the world’s wettest city at the best of times. But a record drought has triggered extra measures – noBw including “water police” checking on over-zealous sprinkler users and the like. The Water Conservation Response Unit is a five-strong team from LA’s Department of Water and […]
Bobby T. Rimas reelected UCLA Pilipino Alumni Scholarship Director
On August 29th, the UCLA Alumni Affairs, Diversity Programs announced that Bobby T. Rimas was reelected as the UCLA Pilipino Alumni Association Scholarship Director. In this position, Mr. Rimas is responsible for raising and collecting scholarship donations, coordinating the application process, and overseeing the UCLA Pilipino Alumni Scholarship Committee who is responsible for developing the selection criteria, […]
Aquino apologizes for monster traffic
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III on Monday personally said sorry for the monster traffic that kept many motorists and passengers stranded for several hours on Friday. “We ask for forgiveness of the public,” Aquino said on the sidelines of the Mindanao Inclusive Agribusiness Program launch at Davao City. Aquino also said that once […]
Rock n Roll, drums and Jagger at Hilfiger show
(NEW YORK-AFP) – It was Rock ‘n’ Roll on the catwalk for Tommy Hilfiger’s New York fashion show Monday, festival chic melded with preppy Americana and trailblazed by British muse Georgia May Jagger. The daughter of rock bad boy Mick Jagger and Texan model Jerry Hall, Georgia May was the perfect progeny for the collection, […]
Apple feeds frenzy with selective silence
(SAN FRANCISCO-AFP) – It is a marketing strategy that few experts would recommend and even fewer companies can pull off. But the less Apple says about its eagerly anticipated event on Tuesday at a performing arts center in Silicon Valley, the more frenzied the speculation becomes. In keeping with its style, Apple has revealed little […]
Jennifer Lopez meets the wrong guy in ‘The Boy Next Door’
(Relaxnews) – When a recently divorced single mother gets romantically involved with her neighbor, she doesn’t realize that their separation will reveal the young man’s dark side, as indicated by the movie’s first trailer. Clean cut and well-mannered, Noah seems at first to be the proverbial “boy next door,” at least until the woman played […]
Kate Moss hides from the paparazzi in new Gucci film
(Relaxnews) – The British supermodel stars in a new jet-set-inspired film for the Italian luxury brand. Gucci unveiled a new minute-long film Monday, starring 40-year-old fashion legend Kate Moss as a mysterious celeb, hiding from the paparazzi behind dark glasses. In the clip, Moss arrives in a blacked out sedan, wearing a shaggy fur coat before […]
Worldwide box office: ‘Lucy’ finally takes first place
(Relaxnews) – After claiming first place at the US domestic box office during its opening weekend in late July, Luc Besson’s sci-fi feature has become the first French-produced movie in history to claim the top spot worldwide. “Lucy” grossed $27.45 million in global theaters during the weekend of September 7. Currently showing in over 55 […]
IFA trend: the selfie phone
(Relaxnews) – Forget recording video in ultra-high resolution or seamless integration with smart home appliances, one of the standout trends of this year’s IFA has been smartphone-makers’ focus on helping consumers capture the perfect selfie. The smartphone self-portrait is becoming almost as ubiquitous as the devices themselves, and 2014 could well be remembered as the […]
Upcoming video games: ‘Destiny,’ ‘NHL 15’
(Relaxnews) – Long-awaited franchise debut “Destiny” arrives on a quintet of Xbox and PlayStation consoles, and “NHL 15” casts its puck onto the ice for another round of sporting improvements. Destiny (360 PS3 PS4 XBO) International: September 9 The new game from revered studio Bungie (first five games in the “Halo” franchise) and first in a […]
World of Warcraft pays tribute to Robin Williams
(WASHINGTON-AFP) – Hollywood star Robin Williams, who died August 11 and was a devoted video game fan, has made a subtle cameo in “World of Warcraft,” as promised by gamemaker Blizzard Entertainment. In a test version of “Warlords of Draenor,” a futuristic character named Robin emerges from a lamp to quote two lines from Disney’s […]
Toronto film festival opens with Downey Jr legal drama
(TORONTO, Canada-AFP) – The red carpet has been rolled out for the 39th Toronto International Film Festival, which opened Thursday amid criticism over new rules meant to cement the event’s reputation as an Oscar kingmaker. The legal drama “The Judge” — starring Robert Duvall and Robert Downey Jr as father and son — kicked off […]
From murder to kidnapping in ‘Horrible Bosses 2’
(Relaxnews) – Warner Bros released a new trailer for the sequel to the quirky 2011 comedy starring Jason Bateman, Charlie Day and Jason Sudeikis. The unlikely criminal trio is back in “Horrible Bosses 2” for a sequel based on the winning formula of the original. Jennifer Aniston, Jamie Foxx and Kevin Spacey also return in […]
Apple recruits renowned designer Marc Newson
(NEW YORK-AFP) – Apple has recruited renowned Australian designer Marc Newson, whose creations have been featured by museums such as New York’s famous MoMA. “Marc is without question one of the most influential designers of this generation,” Jonathan Ive, Apple’s senior vice president of design, told Vanity Fair magazine’s website. “He is extraordinarily talented. We […]
Top iPhone apps: ‘Facebook Messenger,’ ‘The Tower,’ ‘PokoPoko’
(Relaxnews) – Multimedia communications app Facebook Messenger, skyscraping game “The Tower,” and block-matching title “PokoPoko” are among the world’s top app downloads on September 4. More details on these and other top free iPhone applications by country for the week can be found below. The necessity of Facebook Messenger to those accustomed to using the […]
‘Ghost In The Shell’ could star Margot Robbie
(Relaxnews) – The influential cult classic anime is looking for a lead actress in its bid to finally become a live action film. Australian actress Margot Robbie was praised for her turn as Naomi Lapaglia in “The Wolf of Wall Street” and is now in talks to become cyborg counterterrorist Major Kusanagi in “Ghost in […]
Watch: full-length trailer for One Direction’s ‘Where We Are’
(Relaxnews) – The boys of British-Irish band One Direction have released a new look at their upcoming concert film, which will be screened in theaters worldwide for a single weekend next month. “Where We Are” was recorded June 28-29 at the San Siro stadium in Milan and will be shown for two days only, on […]
Joan Rivers, queen of US ‘comediennes,’ dies aged 81
(NEW YORK-AFP) – Joan Rivers, the caustic stand-up comic and television host who blazed a trail at a time when comedy was all but off-limits to women, died in New York on Thursday. She was 81. The award-winning star had been in Mount Sinai Hospital since August 28, when she reportedly stopped breathing during a […]
Remittances from Fil-Ams a big boost to PHL economy
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Remittances from Filipinos in the United States and other parts of the world helped the Philippines regain its position as Southeast Asia’s best performing economy during the first semester of the year. “The Philippine economy grew by 6.4 percent during the second quarter of 2014 also because of the millions of dollars […]
SoCal Immigration lawyer indicted for defrauding foreign investors seeking ‘green cards’
LOS ANGELES – In coordinated criminal and civil actions filed today, federal prosecutors obtained an indictment and the Securities and Exchange Commission filed a civil complaint against a Los Angeles-based immigration attorney who allegedly ran an investment scheme that defrauded foreign investors seeking permanent residency status in the United States through the EB-5 Immigrant Investor […]
Netflix nabs Batman spin-off ‘Gotham’
(Relaxnews) – An agreement between internet streaming site Netflix and Warner Bros means that cop drama “Gotham” will become a Netflix streaming exclusive when it comes to online broadcasts. The deal means that once “Gotham” concludes its first-season run — which starts on US channel Fox this September 22 — subscribers in Netflix’s territories will […]
Samsung throws a curve ball with new bent screen phablet
(Relaxnews) – Samsung has unveiled the world’s first smartphone with a curved display. Called the Galaxy Note Edge, an edge is what the device could give the company as competition in the smartphone and phablet space increases. The Edge’s 5.6-inch Quad HD display curves around the right-hand edge of the handset, and it becomes an […]
Japan’s ‘Golden Bolt’: 103-year-old challenges world’s fastest man
(KYOTO-AFP) – Closing in on his 104th birthday, a twinkle-toed Japanese sprinter has thrown down the challenge to the world’s fastest man Usain Bolt, telling him: “let’s rumble!” Hidekichi Miyazaki — who holds the 100 metres world record for centenarians at 29.83 seconds and is dubbed ‘Golden Bolt’ after the Jamaican flyer — plans to […]
Aquino emphasizes gov’t role in preventive medicine
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III on Monday led the launching of a mass immunization program against measles and polio by the Department of Health (DOH), highlighting the importance of preventive medicine. In a short message during the launch, Aquino stressed the importance of government intervention in preventing the spread of diseases in the […]
Syria army, rebels clash as UN bids to free Golan peacekeepers
By Menahem KAHANA GOLAN HEIGHTS (AFP) – Syrian troops and Islamist rebels battled close to the armistice line with Israel in the Golan Heights on Monday, as the UN pressed efforts to free 44 peacekeepers held by insurgents. The unrest on Israel’s doorstep followed a spillover of mortar and gunfire into Israeli-controlled territory, putting the […]
Kate and Cara star in new Burberry fragrance campaign
(Relaxnews) – The British models have fronted the launch of the new My Burberry fragrance campaign, which includes an exciting personalization service for the perfume bottles and even the ads themselves. Shot together for the first time, Kate Moss and Cara Delevingne are the stars of the latest campaign for Burberry and were captured on […]
A penchant for healthy food can be trained: study
(Relaxnews) – In a small, preliminary study, researchers at the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging (USDA HNRCA) at Tufts University and at Massachusetts General Hospital found it may be possible to train the brain to prefer healthy foods over calorie-laden, additive-rich fare. “We don’t start out in life loving French fries […]
Notebooks and tablets high on back-to-school shopping lists
(Relaxnews) – As students head off to college for the start of the academic year, more than half will do so with a new tablet or notebook. Computers and the internet have revolutionized learning and as devices get smaller, lighter and more and more mobile, the benefits are becoming clearer to see — so much […]
Nicki Minaj tops, Iggy Azalea climbs global social media chart: Starcount
(Relaxnews) – After taking a spot on last week’s social media chart by Starcount, Nicki Minaj climbs to the top spot for the week of Augut 25-31, riding the wave of the popularity of her new “Anaconda” video and her success at last week’s MTV VMAs. Australian artist Iggy Azalea is a new addition to […]
PHL peacekeepers passed land mines in ‘greatest escape’
MANILA, Sept 1 (Mabuhay) – Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. said not one soldier was hurt when they pulled off “the greatest escape” in Golan Heights to flee the Syrian rebels. Catapang revealed the soldiers, who were surrounded in position 69, fled around Sunday midnight (Syrian time) […]
Speaker Emeritus Perez, Cong. Takano each to receive Public Servant Advocate Award at AAPI Awards Banquet Sep. 26
Los Angeles, Calif. –Asian Enterprise celebrates its 21st year of hosting the annual Asian Entrepreneur of the Year Awards with Wells Fargo Foundation and Wells Fargo Home Mortgage as Title Sponsors. This much-awaited awards banquet is supported by a number of Fortune 500 Companies and gives recognition to outstanding Asian American and Pacific Islander Entrepreneurs who rise above economic challenges, as well as […]
Romney for US president in 2016? Iowa poll puts him on top
WASHINGTON (AFP) – Americans may not be through with Mitt Romney after all. The two-time Republican presidential candidate has repeatedly stressed over the past year that he is not interested in a third shot at the White House. But an Iowa poll released Wednesday suggests that Romney, the former Massachusetts governor who lost to President […]
Aquino: I will celebrate the end of my term
MANILA (Mabuhay) — In a seeming indication that he is currently not inclined to extend his term, President Benigno Aquino III has already detailed his plans for the day he will step down from the country’s top elective post. During a light moment in his interview with Bombo Radyo aired on Thursday, Aquino said he […]
Worldwide box office: ‘Apes’ back on top
(Relaxnews) – Thanks to its opening in China, “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” returned to first place at the global box office for the weekend ending August 31. The sci-fi movie earned $52 million worldwide over the period, including $47 million in Chinese theaters. The sequel to “Rise of the Planet of the […]
Concert tours for the season ahead: Lorde, Pharrell Williams, Elton John
(Relaxnews) – The summer festival season is drawing to a close, but for some major artists the touring season is just getting under way. Before the year is up, Lorde, Lady Gaga or one of these other artists may be coming to a venue near you. Lorde September 5 – November 1 North American/New Zealand […]
Royal Caribbean touts Quantum of the Seas’ modern tech
(Relaxnews) – Due to set sail this fall, the cruise operator’s new flagship will be outfitted with several high-tech innovations for a more enjoyable journey. A luggage tracking app, robotic bartenders and apps that let crew members keep track of passengers’ individual preferences are among the new technologies coming to the Quantum of the Seas. […]
Joaquin Phoenix still in the running to play Marvel’s Doctor Strange
(Relaxnews) – Denying other rumors on the subject, including recent speculation that Daniel Radcliffe would play Marvel’s sorcerer, Collider reports that negotiations with Joaquin Phoenix are about to cross the finish line. Jared Leto, Tom Hardy, Benedict Cumberbatch, Adrien Brody, Joseph Gordon-Levitt… The rumor mill has churned out the names of several in-demand actors (and […]
Rag & Bone reveals campaign videos with Winona Ryder and Michael Pitt
(Relaxnews) – In July, Rag & Bone shared images of Winona Ryder and Michael Pitt posing in Coney Island for its latest campaign. Now the fashion label has revealed two new videos starring its celebrity spokesmodels. Rather than posing side by side for the Fall-Winter 2014-15 campaign, Michael Pitt and Winona Ryder were shot individually by Glen Luchford, resulting […]
‘The one with the free coffee’ – Central Perk hits NY
(NEW YORK-AFP) – It’s been 20 years since “Friends” took the world by storm. And to celebrate, New Yorkers can indulge their love of comedy and coffee in their very own Central Perk. It was the celluloid coffee shop where for 10 years Joey, Ross, Rachel, Phoebe, Monica and Chandler captivated millions with their revolving-door […]
Barbie unveils her Instagram account
(Relaxnews) – After Man Repeller and Garance Doré, Barbie is the latest fashion icon to bring her lessons in style to Instagram. The blondest of dolls made her debut on the social network Wednesday under the handle@BarbieStyle. Just like real-life fashionistas, Barbie shares style inspirations and details from her own wardrobe, including #OOTD photos (for […]
What to expect at Apple’s upcoming event
(Relaxnews) – After months of speculation, the world’s most secretive consumer technology company has finally sent out the official invites to an event on September 9, where the unveiling of the iPhone 6 is expected to take place. But what exactly will Tim Cook announce when he takes to the stage at the Flint Center […]
‘Sons of Anarchy’ star choice for ‘King Arthur’
(Relaxnews) – Guy Ritchie’s tale of medieval legend, “King Arthur,” looks like it’s found its main man, with Charlie Hunnam of biker gang series “Sons of Anarchy” said to be Guy Ritchie’s preferred choice. Idris Elba (“The Wire,” “Thor”) is another tip for the film and, if secured, Hunnam will be teaming up with Elba […]
Apple sends out invites to Sept. 9 event
(SAN FRANCISCO-AFP) – Apple on Thursday sent out invitations to an event on September 9 near its Silicon Valley headquarters, amid rumors the tech giant will unveil a new iPhone and maybe a wearable device. The famously secretive company offered scant clues in emailed invites that showed the date in large numbers over the words: […]
Youth Olympics: China showcases future stars as curtain falls
(BEIJING-AFP) – Up to 2,000 performers will feature at the closing ceremony for the Youth Olympics in China’s Nanjing city Thursday after 12 days of competition that showcased the sporting superstars of the future. No official medals table is published for the multi-sports event which focuses on a programme promoting friendship and sportsmanship, rather than […]
Vampires and Lycans to return in ‘Underworld’ reboot
(Relaxnews) – Although the fourth and latest “Underworld” movie was released just two years ago, Lakeshore Entertainment is already working on a reboot of the vampire franchise, which starred Kate Beckinsale. Since the release of the first movie in 2003, the franchise earned a total of over $460 million at the global box office, including […]
Batman or Birdman? Venice fest opens with superhero film
(VENICE-AFP) – The Venice film festival opened with a bang on Wednesday with a brilliant superhero dark comedy that delves into the cinema and theatre worlds to explore the drug that is fame. The first flick to compete at the world’s oldest film festival, Mexican director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu’s “Birdman or the Unexpected Virtue of […]
NYFW: Rebecca Minkoff asks for opinions on Instagram
(Relaxnews) – To prepare her next runway show, the American designer is soliciting input from her Instagram followers. On September 2, Rebecca Minkoff will post two looks from the label’s latest collection to Instagram. Followers will then be invited to vote for the one they prefer, and the look that has the least votes will simply […]
Jumbo iPad rumors resurface
(Relaxnews) – Bloomberg is reporting that Apple will launch a 12.9-inch version of its industry-defining tablet and that it is expected to go on sale early next year. Reports of an iPad ‘Pro’ with a display size closer to that of a notebook are nothing new. Rumors about its upcoming release hit fever pitch back […]
More than 10,000 took their oath as new US citizens in downtown Los Angeles
LOS ANGELES – Los Angeles and Southern California on Wednesday welcomed 10,065 newly naturalized citizens in a solemn but celebratory event for the thousands of immigrants at the Los Angeles Convention Center in South Hall “H-J.” The candidates, lawful permanent residents who have met all the requirements for citizenship, represented nearly 150 countries, including those […]
‘Walking Dead’ star to hunt a ghost with Nicolas Cage
(Relaxnews) – Sarah Wayne Callies has joined the cast of “Pay the Ghost,” a thriller due to enter production next month. At age 37, the actress is in the limelight more than ever before. After breaking through in her role as Sara Tancredi on “Prison Break” and later playing Lori Grimes on “The Walking Dead,” […]
Crowdfunding comes to the wine industry
(Relaxnews) – Filmmakers, tinkerers and IT innovators aren’t the only ones turning to the internet to fund their projects. Through a new platform dubbed Fundovino, the crowdfunding principle has now made its way to the winemaking industry. Just as foodies seek out CSA (community-supported agriculture) programs to support local farmers, many wine enthusiasts are on […]
Instagram launches time-lapse video app for iPhone
(SAN FRANCISCO-AFP) – Facebook-owned photo-sharing service Instagram on Tuesday launched an application for capturing time-lapse videos using Apple mobile devices. The Hyperlapse “app” was designed to let people easily make high-quality time-lapse videos even while moving around with a smartphone, according to Instagram. Hyperlapse videos can be saved on mobile devices and shared on Instagram. […]
Facebook cutting out click bait
(Relaxnews) – The world’s most popular social network announced on Monday that it has decided everyone would be much happier if their Facebook newsfeeds weren’t cluttered with links to potentially spammy articles that give users no real idea of content until they’ve clicked through. Facebook says that these sorts of posts, which demand a user […]
Watch the top moments of the 2014 Emmy Awards
(Relaxnews) – Presented Monday night and hosted by Seth Meyers, the Emmy Awards once again named “Breaking Bad” and “Modern Family” as the top shows in their categories. But more than a forum for recognizing excellence, the prestigious ceremony is also one more opportunity for celebrities to entertain us, as seen in these highlights from […]
LG first to offer OLED ultra-high-definition TVs
(Relaxnews) – Just weeks after announcing the availability of its first curved ultra-high definition LCD TVs, the company has just brought the world’s first OLED ultra-high-definition television sets to market. Until now, the only ultra-high-definition (UHD) TV sets on sale — curved or flat — have used LCD panels which are fine but which need […]
Grape-slinging food fight marks end of grape harvest in Spain
(Relaxnews) – If you’re a hardened wine snob, you might want to stop reading right about now. Because in what could be considered unthinkable for serious oenophiles, La Raima involves flinging wine grapes at each other in a messy, purple, sticky food fight. You could call it the fruitier version of Spain’s infamous Tomatina. Only […]
Corruption, dispute with China cause PHL to slip in peace index
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Despite the historic signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro earlier this year, the Philippines has slipped further down the pole in terms of peace. The Philippines ranked 134th out of 162 countries in the Global Peace Index for 2014, down five notches from last year. The country remains one of […]
Jeepney may serve as Pope Francis’ Popemobile during PHL visit
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Pope Francis’ visit to the Philippines this coming January may take on a stronger Filipino flavor as organizers consider ferrying him around in a jeepney. Former Ambassador to the Holy See Henrietta de Villa, a member of the preparatory committee, said this is one of the options they are considering. “Nothing is […]
Erik Santos, Angeline Quinto ‘exclusively dating’
They are not yet a couple but Erik Santos has finally confirmed that he and fellow singer Angeline Quinto are now exclusively dating. “Exclusively dating kasi wala namang iba,” Santos said in an interview on “Kris TV” on Wednesday. Asked if he would still allow Quinto to date other guys, Santos replied: “Okay lang kung […]
Aquino slams naysayers in Heroes Day speech
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Stay away from people who pretend to push for reforms but are in fact peddling lies, President Benigno Aquino III said on Monday. Aquino, who led the celebration of National Heroes Day, said that while many nameless Filipinos strive to contribute to the country’s development, there are some who instead sow discord. […]
Big hits, notable misses on Emmy red carpet
(LOS ANGELES-AFP) – Monday nights were never supposed to be this fun. The best of American television graced the red carpet at the annual 66th Emmy Awards in Los Angeles — moved from a Sunday to Monday for scheduling reasons — and there was no doubt what the dominant theme of the evening was in […]
2014 Emmy Awards: the essential highlights
(Relaxnews) – The 66th Emmy Awards took place Monday night, honoring “Breaking Bad” and “Modern Family” once again in the top categories. Below is a recap of the ceremony. “Breaking Bad” goes out with a bang Widely regarded as one of the best TV series of its time, AMC’s drama ended last year after five […]
Pacquiao dismisses Algieri threat in Macau
By Daniel HICKS MACAU (AFP) – Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao on Monday dismissed his next opponent, undefeated American Chris Algieri, as merely an “okay” fighter as the build-up began to their upcoming contest. Pacquiao (56-5-2) will put his World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight title on the line against 30-year-old former kickboxer Algieri (20-0) on […]
Intel and Fossil to collaborate on fashionable wearable tech
(Relaxnews) – The partnership will see the companies pool their resources to spot the emerging trends in wearable technology and develop products that will appeal to the “fashion-oriented” consumer. Kosta Kartsotis, Chief Executive Officer of Fossil Group, commented: “We are very excited about collaborating with Intel and working to develop the next innovation in the […]