Local and Foreign Drivers saved in a boat accident using Samsung Galaxy S8

Local news outlets recently reported about an accident involving a group of 20 local and foreign divers whose boat capsized off the waters of Bogo City in Cebu. The passengers immediately scrambled for their smartphones to get a rescue. After about 30 minutes, a Samsung Galaxy S8 was found under the boat submerged in seawater that was still functioning well, which enabled them to contact their rescuers and to provide GPS information that determined their location.

“I really hope my [thank you] can make it to the engineering team as honestly it really saved us all. Only my S8 was able to connect…and worked all the way until we made it to land. It stayed alive for much longer than I thought possible and it really made the difference,” explained Jim Emdee, a Canadian national who owns the smartphone.

Accidents can happen every day. It might seem the most unlikely of heroes but smartphones have become a necessity that they are rarely left at home. These devices enrich one’s lifestyle, enable productivity and connectivity, and in some cases, even save lives.

SAMSUNG shares tips on how to use your Galaxy smartphone in the event of an emergency:

1. Pre-installed emergency hotline

Knowing who to contact is paramount in the event of an emergency especially life-threatening situations such as fire, explosion, road accident, and national calamities.

In partnership with the Philippine National Police, Samsung developed a mobile application called Samsung 321. Galaxy smartphones issued in the Philippines come pre-installed with this app—a database of emergency services including police stations, fire stations, national disaster hotlines, medical assistance, even motor, and traffic assistance.

2. In-pocket locator

Always notify an emergency contact of your current location. When on vacation, users are strongly encouraged to turn on their Global Positioning System (GPS) in their Galaxy smartphones to determine their location particularly when traveling alone or going to off-grid places.

3. SOS messaging and emergency alerts

Galaxy smartphones have the ability to send SOS messages to identified emergency contacts. Simply go to Settings > select Advanced features > turn on Send SOS messages. By pressing the power key three times, a quick SMS alert to your emergency contacts will be automatically sent.

Local telecommunication networks have also enabled emergency cell broadcast systems that allow for quick dissemination of emergency alerts. These have been proven useful in times of national calamities. To check if this function is enabled, go to Messages app > go to Notifications > check Emergency Alerts.

“Putting our customers first is a top priority for Samsung. It is incumbent upon us as a tech leader to find ways to enhance the lives of our customers. We take it as our responsibility to ensure that our products are not only well-made to stand the demands of daily use but must also be equipped with features to help users who find themselves in dire situations,” said James Jung, president of Samsung Philippines.

Unique Pinoy Specialties Highlighted in Solane Kitchen Hero Chef’s Edition

Solane, the leading LPG solutions brand launches its grandest culinary competition dubbed as Solane Kitchen Hero Chef's Edition. It is the first-ever cooking competition that aims to discover the next big name in the culinary world. This a nationwide search across 16 regional stops to recognize a new generation of talented chefs. 

According to the Isla LPG Corporation, CEO Ruben Domingo, "We believe that the Philippines has some of the best and most talented chefs in the world. Through the Solane Kitchen Hero competition, we aim to recognize these chefs who are vital in bringing Filipino cuisine to the world stage." 

Last July 12, 2019, we were privileged to witness the competition live for the Western Visayas leg where Chef Gil George Jucaban of Iloilo was hailed as the Regional Champion.

Chef Gil George Jucaban in action. 

His signature dish, Adobo Flakes with Mango Salsa looked really delicious. He used pork tenderloin instead of the usual cut with pork cuts with fats. He also added poached egg to complete this all-time Filipino favorite. 

The competition is open to Filipino professional chefs with at least three (3) years of kitchen experience gained locally or abroad. They must be currently employed as a professional chef in a hotel, restaurant or any foodservice establishment. 

The competition will be composed of two (2) rounds. The first one is the regional competition and the second round will be the semi-finals and grand finals happening on September 7, 2019, at Eastwood City, Metro Manila. Regional champions will cook-off to find out who among them will be hailed as the first Solane Kitchen Hero Chefs' Edition winner. 

Criteria for Judging are as follows: 

Featured Ingredient/s - 50%

• The recipe must include at least one (1) local ingredient inherent to the province being represented. 

Originality and Creativity - 50% 

• The participant must creatively show a tested recipe which corresponds to the local ingredient/s being used. Photo and caption must contain a personal touch and what inspired them to create the dish. 

The judges are renowned chef and Solane Kitchen Ambassador Chef Sau Del Rosario and best-selling author and Solane Kitchen Hero competition director Nancy Reyes-Lumen. 

Chef Sau del Rosario (2^nd from left) and Chef Nancy Reyes-Lumen (3^rd from left)
with team Adobo (L-R) Chef Mon Urbano, Chef Jen Saranilla and Chef Jaja Andal

The winner will take home Php 100,000 and will embark on a culinary trip to Japan with customized stops at different food and drink destinations. This event is co-presented by Midea and supported by Masflex, Jolly, Jolly Heartmate Canola Oil, Dona Elena, and Dona Elena Al Dente, King Sue, Ajinomoto, Philtranco, Fastcat, Chef’s Garb, National Bookstore and their school partner, STI. 

To know more about Solane Kitchen Hero Chef's Edition, visit Solane website www.solane.com.ph and Facebook page, www.facebook.com/solane.ph 

If you are interested to watch the live competition, here's the schedule of upcoming regional legs: 

• Northern Mindanao/ Caraga Region on August 3
• Davao Region on August 10
• SOCSARGEN and ARMM on August 17 
• National Capital Region on August 24

* Follow Solane's FB Page for final venue announcement. 

HIS & HERS: Good Things Come in Pairs

There’s a thin line between the idea of being thoughtful and practical when choosing the perfect gift for couples. Striking a balance can be a real challenge. You have to consider their shared interests and make sure that you pick up something neither of them owns. Novuhair is here to help you decide and make the process simpler. 

Introducing 2 gift ideas that fit couples of all forms and are guaranteed to be loved and used by your favorite duo. These gifts are perfect for couples who share the same passion to couples celebrating major milestones together such as engagement, housewarming, and anniversary to name a few. 

NOVUHAIR Travel Kit 

Promo duration: October 1, 2018 to July 31, 2019
DOH-FDA-CCRR Permit No. 0929 s. 2018
*NOVUHAIR TRAVEL KIT SRP: Php 4,220 (Save Php 202.25)

Two of the country’s leading brands packed in one travel kit exclusively available at participating Watsons stores nationwide and online: 

• NOVUHAIR, nature’s answer to hair loss, the No.1 hair loss treatment brand in the Philippines

• NAFLORA, made delicate for your generation, the No.1 most prescribed feminine hygiene wash in the Philippines

HIS: Experience nature’s makeover at home 

NOVUHAIR 2-IN-1 PACK contains one 200ml bottle each of the Topical Scalp Lotion and Herbal Shampoo, highly recommended if HE is – 

• experiencing hair loss - excessive hair shedding, thinning hair, receding hairline and bald patches
• in need of a natural solution to help prevent hair loss, keep healthy hair and scalp, and stimulate hair growth
• opting to regain hair luster and vibrancy
• looking for a natural alternative solution to help prevent dandruff and scalp itchiness
• in need of scalp cleansing and detoxification

NOVUHAIR TOPICAL SCALP LOTION has a unique combination of 19 natural ingredients that work in synergy to help prevent hair loss and is clinically proven safe and effective. 

NOVUHAIR HERBAL SHAMPOO cleanses and prepares the scalp in an optimal way prior to the application of NOVUHAIR topical scalp lotion and helps enhance the effect of the topical scalp lotion. 

HERS: Experience a special protection made for your delicate flora 

NAFLORA PROTECT is a feminine wash formulated for women of reproductive age and in need of special care to help maintain and protect their natural flora during monthly periods and everyday use. It is formulated with antimicrobial ingredients that help prevent vaginal irritations and infections. 

To order NOVUHAIR Travel Pack visit https://www.watsons.com.ph/topical-scalp-lotion-herbal-shampoo-free-naflora-protect-feminine-hygiene-wash-travel-organizer-pouch/p/BP_50002150

NOVUHAIR 3-IN-1 Plus 1 Promo Pack 

HERS: NOVUHAIR 3-IN-1 Pack

NOVUHAIR Herbal Conditioner has been formulated especially to complement the use of NOVUHAIR Topical Scalp Lotion and NOVUHAIR Herbal Shampoo.

Regular use of NOVUHAIR Herbal Conditioner and NOVUHAIR Herbal Shampoo helps prepare the scalp for the application of NOVUHAIR Topical Scalp Lotion in order to maximize its effect, improve the overall cosmetic qualities of the hair, giving it a shinier, softer and supple look.

HIS: NOVUHAIR Herbal Shampoo (free)

Chemical-based shampoos contain ingredients that may seem to clean the hair but does not preserve its natural texture. These harsh chemicals strip off the hair’s natural protective layer making it more prone to damage.

A good herbal shampoo like NOVUHAIR herbal shampoo may help leave a stronger, healthier-looking hair and aid in preventing excessive hair shedding which may lead to hair loss. This will be a healthier alternative for him.

NOVUHAIR 3-IN-1 PLUS 1 PROMO PACK contains one 200ML bottle each of the Topical Scalp Lotion, Herbal Shampoo, and Herbal Conditioner plus another extra 200ml. bottle of NOVUHAIR Herbal Shampoo for FREE exclusively available at participating Mercury Drug stores nationwide.

Without being too cheesy, these couple gifts are fun and surprising, a perfect way to express how much you value their gift of friendship - a gift that may keep them both well-groomed and well-protected. It may not be the best gift in the world but it’s the thought that really counts, agree? Anyways, that’s what friends are for.

To learn more about NOVUHAIR, visit www.novuhair.com

4 Life Lessons Every Millennial Should Know

Millennials or those who have been referred to as Generation Y are the individuals who grew up in an electronics-filled and increasingly online and socially-networked world. 

If you are born between 1982 and 2002, then continue reading this post and learn more about these life lessons that you should know. 

1. Be The Best At What You Do. 

Millennials are said to define themselves more by their interest and passion rather than careers. According to Mr. Renee Barian Romero, an avid online gamer who loves to join international competitions and now a successful business consultant and CEO, millennials should strive to be the best at what they do whether it's about arts, writing, dancing or even online gaming. 

Renee Barian Romero giving the "GAMER TO GAINER" talk.

When you play games, you take adversaries as a challenge to become the best. Quitting is never an option. Focus on learning and improvement. 

One of the lucky students who got a surprise gift. 

2. Be a Game Changer.

Millennials are known to be passionate about things that impact others: the planet, the environment, social justice, poverty. With proper guidance, these passions can make themselves as ‘changemakers’. What other generations might consider an ‘interest’, Millennials see it as central to who they are. They define success in terms of their ability to turn these interests into accomplishments or even a career. 

3. Be a Responsible Social Media User

Growing up in a digital environment, one can tap increasing potential with all the resources available. However, if not utilized properly, these resources may also become distractions that may hinder one’s personal or career growth. Ms. Maria Sigrid Lo, award-winning blogger / social media influencer reminds millennials to be responsible social media users. One should try to post something positive and helpful. 

Ma. Sigrid Lo talks about SOCIAL MEDIA FOR MILLENNIALS

As millennials, let us be more than a "selfie-crazy" generation. Make sure to practice social media etiquette. 

4. You are Responsible for Your Dreams

Sha Nacino, global speaker, and author of 12 books shared that to make our dreams come true, you have to be clear on what you want. Be specific. Visualize and find out what you really want in your life. 

Once you know what your goals are, write your dreams. Create a dream board that will serve as a reminder. Act on your dreams. Dreams don't happen overnight. Take small steps but make sure you do it consistently. You have the control of making your dreams come true. Believe in yourself and not on other people's perception of you. 

Sha Nacino shares tips on HOW WE CAN MAKE OUR DREAMS COME TRUE.

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These are just some of our key takeaways during the A MILLENNIAL’S DREAM - an event all about inspiring students and other stakeholders to pursue their passion and purpose through productivity and entrepreneurship in the digital age. 

This was held last October 12, 2017 at the Jovito H Sayson National High School and was made possible through the support of event partners: Merzci - Best Bacolod Pasalubong, Cabalen SM City Bacolod, Steel Art Billboards, Maskape 3in1 Coffee, Kurv'z Boutique, Sweet Hill Ice Candy Negros, WRITE University, When In Manila, Sigrid Says, DHADHA GARCIA, Mea in Bacolod and My Metro Lifestyle.

Here are some photos of the event: 

Despite the rain, more 300+ participants joined the event. 

Grade 12 students sold their handicraft projects which they made during their TLE classes. 

Maskape, one of the event sponsors gave out samples to all event attendees. 

Grade 9 students offered Face Painting Services

Raffle Prizes from Merzci - The Best Bacolod Pasalubong

Erwin Boiser of Sweet Hill Ice Candy Negros gave away free samples and
a NEGOSYO PACKAGE to one lucky participant. 

Grade 10 offered the famous Bacolod "Inasal."  They also won THE BEST BOOTH AWARD.

This event was organized by NEGROS ONLINE WORKERS under the DIGITAL AND ONLINE TECH ADVOCATES PROGRAM.