4th Men’s Health All-Terrain Race

Trail runners and mountain bikers will surely have their work cut out for them as they take part in the 4th Men’s Health All-Terrain Race to be held on May 16, 2010 in Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

The Men’s Health All-Terrain Race is the most eagerly anticipated race in the country by both mountain bikers and trail runners. It’s is also the perfect springboard for new riders and runners to try something new and to push their limit.

Participants may choose to run the 6-kilometer, 10-kilometer or 16-kilometer trail course, or ride their bikes on the 20-kilometer or the 40-kilometer route. But for those up for the challenge, there is also the option to do both the 10-kilometer trail run and 20-kilometer bike ride. Racers will be running and/or riding on pavements, dirt roads and grass lands. They will also get the opportunity to admire the view from the top of a ravine, and get wet while crossing a river on their way to the finish line.

Registration is now ongoing at Akt!v Sports and Lifestyle Centers in Trinoma and Festival Super Mall, Recreational Outdoor Exchange (R.O.X.) in Bonifacio High Street and at the Summit Media Office at the 7th Floor of Robinsons Cybergate Tower 3, Pioneer St., Mandaluyong, City. Deadline of registration is on May 12, 2010.

Good food, cool music and, great company awaits all participants as the event coincided with Men’s Health Philippines’ Fifth Anniversary celebration.

The 4th Men’s Health All-Terrain Race is co-presented by Keen and sponsored by Cherifer Premium, Emperador Light with official venue partner, Nuvali; official timer, Timex; official outfitter, AllStar; registration partners, Akt!v Sports and Lifestyle Centers and ROX and official radio partner Magic 89.9.

For more information about the event, contact Summit Media Publishing at (632) 451-8888 local 1070 or 1071, visit www.menshealth.com.ph or grab a copy of the current issue of Men’s Health, available in newsstands, bookstores and supermarkets nationwide.

LBHS Staged Flower and ‘Garden Wedding’ Show

As a way to recognize the popularity of garden weddings and receptions in the Philippines, the Los Baños Horticulture Society (LBHS), formerly Los Baños Orchid Society, held its summer show last April 23 to May 2, 2010 at the Senior’s Social Garden in University of Los Banos, Laguna.

With this year’s theme “Garden Wedding”, the event was filled with creative displays of numerous flora that are ideal for garden wedding setups. Invited speakers also talked about how to use plants and garden accessories — seeds, seedlings, flowering plants, garden bells, and lamps — as wedding giveaways.

VS Orchids, Vic’s Orchids & Ornamentals, Valesol, Flower Box, Gintong Talulut, Exotica, Varunee Garden, Robelle Garden, Malvarosa, Earth Keepers, DAP, Tony Pajaro, Mabuhay Orchids and Genesis participated in the landscape exhibit and showcased their arrangements in the center hall.

Among the special guest include Mr. Vic Chin who gave a talk on “Wedding Cake Decoration Using Fresh Flowers”, Dr. Monina Siar, noted specialist on Hoya, Mussaenda and other ornamental plants; and Mr. Danny Tiu, author of Grammatophyllum of the Philippines, which was recently published by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry, and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCARRD). The book was on sale during the garden show.

Like previous garden shows organized by the LBHS, seedlings, fruit crops, exotic fruit trees, foliage plants, flowering plants, and orchids were available and sold to guests and participants throughout the event.

For more information about the event, contact the Los Baños Horticulture Society at (63920) 577-6552 or visit their website at http://losbanosorchidsociety.org/

Buyers, Enthusiasts Heads to Manila International Auto Show this April

Buyers, collectors, and enthusiasts of vintage cars, custom cars, race cars, and everything else that has motor and runs on wheels will roll out to the World Trade Center in Manila this April 15 – 18, 2010 for the 2010 edition of Manila International Auto Show.

The Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), organized by Worldbex Services International, is an annual venue for car buyers and enthusiasts alike to take a closer look at the latest models and significant concept from the Philippines’ premier auto makers. Manila International Auto Show is the Philippines’ biggest motor show in terms of visitor count, cars on display, and exhibitors.

This year’s theme is “Crossing Boundaries,” with a dual thrust. The first is to highlight the unparalleled capabilities of today’s vehicle as they give better performance and fuel economy. The second is to boost industry sales beyond its previous performance with a well-attended selling event.

The show also aims to foster industry cooperation and provide a stimulus to spur demand for the automotive industry. Together with media, the private sector and government initiatives, MIAS aims to promote the local automotive manufacturing industry and serve as an engine for growth.

Numerous activities have been lined up during the four-day event. Highlights include debut car launches, off-road and on-road test drives, Motorsports clinic, Top Gear exhibit, and a special presentation by precision driving and stunt show icon Mr. Russ Swift and the rest of Russ Swift Precision Driving Services. There will also be the annual MIAS Classical and Custom Car Competition, Car of the Year Awards Exhibition as well as photography contests.

The Manila International Auto Show 2010 is sponsored by Top Gear Magazine (Official Magazine), Philippine Savings Bank (PS Bank) (Auto Loan sponsor), and Tourism Malaysia (Tour Sponor), Red Rock Travel Facilitators (Philippine F1 Tour Provider) and Malaysia Airlines (Official Airline). The event is supported by A-ToyBodyKits, Brightmaster Professional Auto Detailer, Concept One Wheels, Dunlop Tires, DuPont Motorsports, H&R Special Springs, Leder Interia, Motul, Motolite, PPS Technology, Repsol, Rota Wheels, Xenon Bulbs, Yokohama Tires, 10 Inch Lights and Sounds, The Brain Computer Corporation, Formaply Industries, Inc., Forsc Ink Inc., Solar Sports, McDonalds, AeroMed Ambulance Transport, Race Wars Philippines, and the following media partners: AutoIndustriya.com, BigBigCar.com, Business Mirror, Business World, Chequered Flag, China Business Philippines, Filbars International Subscription System, Inc., Car Finder, Inside Racing, Manila Bulletin, Motioncars.com, Philippine Daily Inquirer, The Philippine Star, Tsikot.com, YoCard, Wave 891, NU 107, and 105.1 Crossover FM.

For more information about the event, contact the Worldbex Services International at (632) 531-6374; 531-6350; 531-5044; 533-6988, fax (632) 533-2026, email info@worldbex.com or visit their website at www.worldbex.com or www.manilaautoshow.com.

Neophyte Surfers to Ride the Waves at 2nd Baler Beginners' Surf Competition

The Baler Beginners' Surf Competition, the biggest beginners' surf competition in the country is back. It will be held from April 9 – 11, 2010 at Sabang Beach in Baler, Aurora.

Now on its second year, the event encourages newbie surfers and those who’d like to try the sport to learn from veteran surfers and experience riding the waves this summer. The competition is open for all first timer surfers, even spectators. Get the chance to meet new friends, eat great food, take home freebies, and a chance to win really cool prizes. Special awards such as Best Rides, Worst Wipe Outs, Best in Surf Wear, and more, will be conferred during the event.

Registration fee is PhP. 3, 800.00 for competitors and PhP. 3, 300.00 for spectators. Package include two nights-3 days accommodation (group sharing), transportation (Private Bus), 5 free meals (3 breakfasts, 2 dinners), two (2) sets of one hour surf lesson and board rental, and official event t-shirt. Participants who will be joining will have to pay down payment of Php 1,500. Full payment will be collected on the day of the event.

The 2nd Baer Beginners’ Surf Competition is organized by Surfari Philippines and MAHDOX Surf School and Surf Shop together with Aloha Boardsports.

For inquiries call or text Mr. Jasper Enriquez at (63922) 852-7737 or Benjamin Uy at (63922) 844-3729.

Local Skimmers Head out to CamNorte for First Ultimate Regional Skim and Skate Challenge

Witness top regional skimmers battle it out for skim supremacy with ingenious moves guaranteed to be served fresh, hot and deliciously spicy during the 1st Ultimate Uragon Regional Skim and Skate Challenge and Luzon Skim Jam slated on April 3 – 4, 2010 at Bagasbas Beach in Daet, Camarines Norte.

The event is when Bicolano and Luzon skimmers and skaters will gather to compete in one of the first ever regional skim and skate challenge held in one of Camarines Norte’s Skim havens. An almost two kilometer expanse of flat, fine grey sand conveniently located 10 minutes away from the bustling town of Daet awaits skim aficionados from all skill levels.

The skate event will be held in the Bagasbas Pavilion and an 8km, Mercedes-to-Bagasbas Push race will kick off after that. There will be different classes and division for amateur and expert skimmers and a longboarding competition during the event.

The 1st Ultimate Uragon Regional Skim and Skate Challenge and Luzon Skim Jam is supported by San Miguel Corporation, Provincial Government of Camarines Norte, Slick Surf Skimboards Pilipinas, Junior Chamber International (JCI) – Philippines, and Department of Tourism.

Registration fee is P300.00 inclusive of event shirt and 2 lunch stubs. For more information, contact Slick Surf Skimboards Pilipinas at (63908) 881-5075 or visit their website, http://slicksurf.multiply.com/.

Manila Night Sky to Brighten Up during First Philippine International Pyromusical Competition

Every Sunday starting February 14, 2010, Valentines Day and Chinese New Year, the Manila night sky will brighten up as the best pyrotechnic experts take part in the First Philippine International Pyromusical Competition, scheduled from February 14 – March 14, 2010 at the SM Mall of Asia Grounds in Pasay City.

Present by SM Mall of Asia this annual event will put on a never-before-seen spectacle of lights and colors where the night sky and sea meet as staged by the world’s leading pyrotechnic experts from nine countries – Australia, United Kingdom, China, France, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, United States of America, and the Philippines.

This competition will not only pain the Manila sky with brilliant bursts of vivid colors, but will also be the venue to showcase the emerging artistry and evolving sophistication of Filipino fireworks technology. The Philippine International Pyromusical Competition will be imbued with the awesome fanfare and delightful displays of the world's leading pyrotechnic events, but done with that distinct Filipino flourish that will surely bring together eager audience from all over the region.

The Philippines will fire up the opening salvo of pyrotechnic artistry on February 14. As host country, the Philippines will not take part in the competition but will showcase its unique pyrotechnic presentation during the opening and closing ceremonies. Other countries will show off their entries during the following days:

• February 14 - Australia
• February 21 – United Kingdom and China
• February 28 – France and China
• March 7 – Singapore and Malaysia
• March 14 – USA

The 1st Philippine International Pyromusical Competition is in cooperation with Platinum Fireworks, Inc., and Department of Tourism. Official Residence is Traders Hotel Manila.

For ticket inquiries, call Ticketnet at (632) 911-5555 and Ticketworld at (632) 891-999. For more information about the event, contact Platinim Fireworks, Inc., at (63917) 926-4625, (63939) 317-5476, email platinumfireworks@gmail.com or visit the event website at www.pyrophilippines.com/.

Ballooning Goes To New Heights at 15th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

Hot air balloons paint the sky once again for the 15^th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF). This dazzling event will be staged at the Clarkfield Economic Zone in Pampanga on February 11-14, 2010.

The PIHABF is an annual event featuring balloons from all over the world. Over the years, it has become a convention of sorts including aerosports and other aviation-related pursuits.

Tagged as the “Weekend of Everything That Flies”, viewers will be treated to a spectacular air show featuring regular and special-shaped hot air balloons coming from all over the world. Other activities include skydiving exhibitions, paragliding, aerobatics, airplane and helicopter flybys, balloon-bursting competitions, professional kite flying, remote control aircraft displays and a whole lot more! There will also be ground activities like food courts and fly markets, car exhibitions, army aircraft and gear displays, aviation schools exhibits, photo contests and other exciting events. It’s definitely a treat for the whole family.

The 15th PIHABF will also stage the 2010 Aviation Awards, which aims to recognize several outstanding people who exemplify the highest standards of flying and service, or have made extraordinary contributions to the aerospace industry in the year 2009. The recipients of the 2010 Aviation Awards will be honored at the awards ceremony and dinner scheduled on February 13, 2010.

The 15th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is sponsored by United Parcel Service (UPS), Krukspec Tactical Gear, Marquee Mall, Asian Air Safari, Angeles City Four Wheelers Club http://216.55.144.142/ac, DSV Logistics, Caltex, Cebu Pacific Air, Circus Aircraft, Global Gateway Logistics City, Yellow Cab Pizza, Ayala Malls, Recreational Outdoor Exchange (R.O.X.), Clark Development Corporation, Diosdado Macapagal International Airport, Air Force City, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Philippine National Police.

For more information and a detailed schedule of activities, contact Asian Air Safari at (632) 384-0085, (63927) 340-4994 or visit the event website at http://www.philballoonfest.net.

Top Local, Foreign Lensmen To Speak at Photo World Asia 2010

Amateur and professional photographers are invited to take the chance to hear and learn tips and techniques from master photographers in the educational series during the Photo World Asia 2010, which will be held from January 29 to February 1, 2009 at the SGV Halls of the Asian Institute of Management in Makati City.

Organized by the Federation of Philippine Photographer Foundation, Inc. (FPPF) the theme for this year’s PhotoWorld Asia 2010 is “Philippine Photography in Changing Times.”

The scheduled guest speakers include US master photographer Kevin Ames, who will reveal his secrets on photographing women and his masterful Photoshop tricks; Thailand-based photographers Manny and Jose Librodo, will share their portraiture techniques, and design elements, respectively; Mr. Hugo D. Yonzon III will discuss harnessing the creative energy; and Mr. John Silva on Philippine photography history. Other speakers include Mr. Jason Magbanua, Mr. John Tronco, Ms. Isa Lorenzo and Mr. Bernie Ledesma,

A special trade show will be open to the public from January 28 – February 2, 2009 at Glorietta Activity Center in Makati City. Visitors can view the latest cameras, gadgets and other photographic equipment at the various booths and stalls of the participating exhibitors. The trade show will also feature an exhibition of vintage cameras and a display of iconic images that chronicle various historical moments.

Registration is required for the educational series. For inquiries, contact FPPF at (632) 524-7576, 528-0371, email fotoatwork@gmail.com or visit their website at http://photoworldmanila.com/

Philstar.com bares Christmas Celebrity Run 2009

Celebrating a more meaningful Christmas this year, philstar.com is calling online community members, lifestyle aficionados, sports enthusiasts and race buffs to join the Christmas Celebrity Run 2009 on December 20, 2009 at the Fort Bonifacio Global City in Taguig.

“We invite everyone to celebrate the yuletide season with us and support our campaign to connect Philippine public high schools to the world by joining Christmas Celebrity Run 2009,” said philstar.com General Manager Katrina-Sandejas Mañosa.

The event was designed as a venue where philstar.com online community members can interact with celebrities, who share the same passion for running, healthy lifestyle, online literacy and charity work.

Heading the celebrity roster, according to Manosa, are Christine Jacob-Sandejas, Maricel Laxa, Anthony Pangilinan, Gary Valenciano, Rovilson Fernandez, Marc Nelson, Claudine Barreto, Raymart Santiago, KC Concepcion, Piolo Pascual and Drew Arellano. Business tycoons Jaime and Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Fred Uytengsu and Lance Gokongwei are likewise expected to put on their running gear during the event.

Special prizes await the top three runners in the male and female divisions of the 3-kilometer, 5-kilometer, and 10-kilometer races. In the 21-kilometer race, two winners will be chosen (one male and one female) in each of the five divisions: 18-25 years old, 26-30 years old, 31-29 years old, Male (40 and above) and Female (35 and above). More prizes await those who come in costumes looking like celebrities. Three participants will be named Best in costume (Celebrity Look-a-like).

“More than the social and healthy benefits of running, philstar.com’s Christmas Celebrity Run 2009 will also help fund the computerization program of GILAS (Gearing up Internet Literacy and Access for Students), a multi-sectoral initiative spearheaded by the Ayala Foundation program,” Ms. Mañosa explained “This is in line with our corporate social responsibility of nurturing not just the online community but helping spread online literacy as well.”

Initially scheduled Oct. 11, the race was postponed to give way to relief, clean-up and rehabilitation efforts in Taguig, one of the urban areas badly hit by tropical storm Ondoy last Sept. 26.

The philstar.com Christmas Celebrity Run 2009 is sponsored by Adidas, Yahoo! Philippines, E-Games, Brazilian Agaricus 8-in-1 Herbal Coffee, Crocs, Nutribar, SMART Communications, Inc., Coppertone, Aqua Blue, Sport Beans, Timex, Chris Sports, Vitwater, Mizuno, Paul Calvin's Deli, McKinley Hill, and One Tagaytay Place, Action and Fitness Magazine, Men’s Health Philippines, Women’s Health Philippines, Magic 89.9, AXN-Asia, Jack TV, Jobstreet, Chikka, People Asia, The Philippine STAR, NU 107, and takbo.ph.

For more information, contact project director Mr. Ian Alacar at (63929) 6496762 or philstar.com at (632) 527-6856, email marketing@philstar.com, or visit www.philstar.com.

Christmas Gifts Made Affordable at 2nd Manila Toys and Gifts Show

Hundreds of toys and gift items will be sold in affordable prices at the 2^nd Manila Toys and Gifts Show (MTGS) on December 16 – 22, 2009 at the SM Megatrade Hall 2 and 3 in SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

Organized by Megatrade Hall and MCT Events Management, The seven-day event will feature toys and collectibles, apparel and shoes, fashion, home, and kids’ accessories, food, and even novelty gift items, just in time for the Christmas Season.

Last year’s event drew over 80,000 guests of all ages. This year, the event expects an even bigger crowd with a wide array of products perfect for the last-minute Christmas shopping.

Within the MTGS flag is the highly-anticipated 4^th Annual Toys and Collectibles Christmas Fair, to be held on December 19 – 21. The event has already been dubbed the ultimate event for collectors and hobbyists with its extensive range of collectibles and rate toys offered both on direct sale and on auction. In addition, new and exciting activities have been lined up for the attendees, such as Holiday Cooing Demos, Meet and Greet Santa, Fashion Shows, Toy Auctions, Cosplay Competitions, Arts and Crafts, and other games and surprises.

More than a selling fair, MTGS also aims to share the Christmas cheer to the children of Bantay Bata 163 by raising funds for the “Light the Tree, Light a Hope” project. A portion of the show proceeds will be donated to Bantay Bata 163. The visitors will not only get to shop for toys and gifts, they will also be given the opportunity to share their blessings with less fortunate children.

For inquiries, contact Megatrade Hall at (632) 633-1697, 634-7617 or MCT Events Management at (632) 799-0230, 747-0529, 701-1759 or email mctevents@gmail.com

Bigger Defense and Sporting Arms Show Set

The country's major gun manufacturers and dealers are ready to show their latest firearms and shooting paraphernalia at the 2009 Defense and Sporting Arms Show (DSAS) Part 2 scheduled on November 12 – 16, 2009 at the SM Megatrade Hall 1-2 in SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

As a result of the success of the previous DSAS events, Atty. Hector Rodriguez, President of the Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers, the organizers of the event, said that they are expanding the exhibit hall area to cater to the increasing demand for more show booths for new firearms and shooting accessories and the heavy influx of gun aficionados.

DSAS Part 1, held last July 16 – 20, 2009, occupied the same venue and attracted hundreds of visitors interested in gun ownership, target shooting, and airsoft. Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Jesus Versosa and other officials of the PNP Civil Security Group (CSG) and the PNP Firearms and Explosives Division (PNP-FED) graced the opening rites.

Aside from gun displays and product presentations, seminars were also conducted during the event. The PNP-FED gave a free seminar entitled: “Legal Aspects of Gun Ownership”, aimed at encouraging gun owners with delinquent licenses to renew them to avoid payment of penalties. They also set-up a one-stop shop firearm license renewal booth during the event.

Director Versosa as well as PNP-FED Director Chief Supt. Alfredo Caballes will again grace the opening of DSAS Part 2. Seminars and product demonstrations will again be staged during the 5-day event.

The 2009 Defense and Sporting Arms Show is sponsored by Dream FM 106.7, Jam 88.3, Magic 89.9, 99.5 RT, 105.1 Crossover, DZRH 666, NU 107, Ansmann Energy, Manila Bulletin, The Daily Tribune, People's Journal, Philippine Graphic, Event Ads, Philstar.com, The Philippine Star, and Total Security Systems, Inc.

For more information about the event, contact Tradeshow International, Inc., at (632) 671-3122, 671-8381 to 82, email info@tradeshow.com.ph or visit their website at http://www.tradeshow.com.ph

Manila Auto Salon 2009 Set as Largest Automotive Event in RP

The Philippines’ largest automotive aftermarket show, Manila Auto Salon (MAS), is set on November 26 – 29, 2009 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City.

MAS 2009, organized by Tradeshow International, Inc, will gather under one roof, local and international manufacturers, distributors and dealers of the automotive aftermarket industry. Among the main highlights include four long-running events – Custom Car Show, Sport Truck Show, Bike Show, and Mobile Electronics and Technology Show.

Over 120 customized and modified cars, SUVs, and trucks will be showcased and competing for the 14th edition of the Custom Car Show and Sports Truck Show. Meanwhile, over 30 of the best vehicles with mobile setups will be competing under the International Auto Sound Challenge Association (IASCA) Sound-Off Competition. The country’s biggest bike and scooter clubs who will feature vintage, resto-mods, modern and contemporary bike and bicycles will participate this year’s Bike Show. The 3rd Mobile Electronics and Technology will gather distributors and dealers of mobile audio and video products, equipment and services as well as the best mobile installers in the country vying for the top awards in the sound competition.

Other highlights of the event include the Ultimate Tuner Award, die-cast scale model exhibit and the Search for the Manila Auto Salon Race Queens.

The 200 Manila Auto Salon is sponsored by Solar Auto Club, Advanti Racing Wheels, Motorola, Café Puro, Padi’s Point, Gotcha Paintball Adventure Games, and Lazer Maxx Laser Tag Arena. Also supporting the event are Digital Resource Corporation, PhilOnline and the following media and online partners: Solar Sports, Stoplight TV, Viva Prime, TV5, C! Magazine, Top Gear Philippines Magazine, Business Mirror, Business World, Chinese Commercial News, The Daily Tribune, Malaya Business Insight, Manila Bulletin, Philippine Star, The Manila Times, Jam 88.3, Magic 89.9, Home Radio 7dot9, 99.5 RT, 103.5 Max FM, 105.1 Crossover, 106.7 Dream FM, NU 107, DWIZ 882 kHz, DZRH 666 kHz, AutoIndustriya.com, Autolink Philippines, BigBigCar.com, GetzMo!?, Philstar.com, and Tsikot.com.

For more information about the event, contact Tradeshow International, Inc., at (632) 671-3122, 671-8381 to 82, (63917) 813-2694, email tradeshow92@yahoo.com or visit the event website at www.manilaautosalon.com