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Petron, the country’s leading oil company, has come up with a value-packed card that rewards its loyal customers with rewards and privileges. The Petron Value Card is available to everyone who patronizes Petron products or services.

To join, you simply need to present P500-worth of Petron receipts at any participating Petron station. The attendant will immediately process your Petron Value Card and issue it to you on-site so you can start enjoying the perks that come with the card.

First, Petron Value Card allows you to earn points that you can use to pay for products and services at participating Petron establishments. Every P250-worth of fuel spend is worth 1-point, which has a cash value of P1.

The Petron Value Card is also a discount card. You get P10-off on every Gasul 11kg. at participating Petron establishments. You also have a P10 discount for every liter or P40 discount for every gallon of Petron automotive lubricants at participating Petron stations and car care centers. Plus, you get 5% off on SMC products at San Mig Food Ave.

By accumulating a minimum of 5-points from the preceding month, a Petron Value Card holder is automatically covered with P10,000 personal accident insurance and P1,000 medical reimbursement from MAPFRE Insular. You are also eligible for free 24-hour towing and roadside assistance nationside from Ibero Asistencia. Certain restrictions apply for both privileges.

To give you even more benefits, the Petron Value Card is also honored at selected business establishments so you can enjoy freebies, discounts and special offers on dining, personal care, and travel and leisure products and services. Simply present your Petron Value Card to avail of the offers.

Petron has the largest retail network with more than 2,000 service stations bringing its superior automotive fuels closer to motorists. It remains at the forefront of fuels technology and continuously pioneers ground-breaking products formulated for the lifestyles of customers. Petron Blaze, for instance, is one of the few—if not the only—commercially available gasoline in the world with a 100-octane rating. 

Want to give a gift that’s sure to be appreciated by friends, relatives, neighbors, employees, clients and business partners? Get them a prepaid Petron eFuel Card that they can use to pay for fuels, lubricants as well as other products and services at participating Petron stations nationwide.

The Petron eFuel Card can be loaded with flexible denominations starting at P1,000.  The card load can be used as many times as needed, until the amount stored in the card is depleted.

Once consumed, the Petron eFuel Card holder has the option to reload it at BPI ATMs and branches for the convenience of cash-less transactions. The Petron eFuel Card is transferable but not redeemable for cash or credit. Nor is it replaceable if lost or damaged.

Petron has the largest retail network with more than 2,000 service stations bringing its superior automotive fuels closer to motorists. It remains at the forefront of fuels technology and continuously pioneers ground-breaking products formulated for the lifestyles of customers. Petron Blaze, for instance, is one of the few—if not the only—commercially available gasoline in the world with a 100-octane rating. 

The big boys of the Petron  basketball team have caught the “Passion for Porsche” fever!   In photo are (L-R): Chris Lutz with the red Porsche Cayman and the silver Porsche Cayenne; Danny Ildefonso holding the white Porsche GT3 RSR available starting December 1; and JunMar Fajardo with the blue Porsche Panamera and the black Porsche Carrera.

These Porsche collectible toy cars are offered in the “Petron Passion for Porsche” promo, which runs from November 1, 2012 to January 31, 2o13.  For every P1,000-worth of Petron Blaze, XCS, Xtra Unleaded, Turbo Diesel or Diesel Max purchase, a Petron customer can avail of a Porsche collectible toy car for only P180.  

As part of the Petron Collectibles Limited Edition items, the Porsche toy cars are 1:32 scale models of the actual cars, and are made of high-quality metal die cast.  Each car is a carefully detailed collector’s model packaged with a removable base.  Enhancing its sports car feel are additional functions not found in other scale models. The toy cars in the Petron Porsche collection are equipped with a sound chip and LED head and taillights. The cars produce a realistic revving engine sound, as well as horn and car alarm sounds. The car doors can be opened, which trigger the car alarm and flashing head and taillights. The Petron Porsche toy cars also have pull-back action so you could indulge your racing dreams.

The “Petron Passion for Porsche” promo is offered at all participating Petron service stations nationwide, and is valid for all cash and credit card transactions. The toy car can only be purchased at the participating Petron station where the customer loaded fuel, or same site redemption only. 

Generika Drugstore, one of the country's leading generic drugstore chains, is releasing an upgraded version of its loyalty card, the GeneriKard. The new GeneriKard replaces the built-in chip with a new contact-less card technology, which will be less prone to deterioration or defects, and can be read faster by store personnel. In addition, the new GeneriKard features a more attractive design and is made from more durable material.

The new GeneriKard is available at all Generika outlets nationwide, starting September 2012. Bearers of the old GeneriKard will, of course, continue to enjoy the exclusive discounts, perks and privileges extended to all GeneriKard holders.

GeneriKard is a loyalty card that allows customers to earn points whenever they spend a minimum P20 at any Generika Drugstore. The card earns points worth 1% of the purchase amount for generic medicines, and 0.2% of the purchase amount for branded medicines and other consumer goods. 

In addition, cardholders can avail of exclusive GeneriKard Specials, such as the ongoing discounts on: Pryce Teens (50%); Moringana Capsules (10%); IQ Plus Syrup (5%); OMX Probiotics Capsule (5%); Kyusoku Bihaku (5%); and Evaderm (5%). 

Customers can get a free GeneriKard with a minimum purchase of P300 worth of generic medicines. The GeneriKard can also be purchased outright for P50. Simply fill out the application form at any Generika Drugstore to by part of the more than 300,000 GeneriKard members. 

Generika Drugstore was founded in September 2003 to educate Filipinos about generic brand drugs and to provide them with quality affordable generic medicines as an alternative to higher cost branded drugs. Generika was awarded the Quality Seal Award by the Bureau of Food & Drugs (BFAD) in 2009, and was proclaimed the national winner in the drugstore chain category in 2009 by the Drugstore Association of the Philippines (DSAP). There are more than 300 Generika Drugstore outlets nationwide.

Inspite of the morning downpour on September 29, hundreds of motorcycle riders belonging to several Caloocan clubs trooped down to Barangay Bagumbong to join Safe T Ryders’ 5th Club Meet Up.The 5th edition was hosted and organized by BRAD Riders Club led by Jonell Miguel (nickname Migs) and Barangay Kagawad Atty. Joel Clamor.   “With the growing number of motorcycles riders in our area, we are honoured to welcome the road safety team of Safe T Ryders for an afternoon of learning safety tips,” said Atty. Clamor. 

The road safety team is composed of  Alberto Suansing, the former LTO Chief and now Secretary General of Phil Global Road Safety Partnership, Love-love Tioseco, celebrity motorcycle race driver and television personality, and Arnel Doria, founder of Safe T Ryders Training Center. “Motorcycles helmets with ICC stickers are legitimate and legal.  Any enforcer who will ask for other requirements is simply after “kotong”,” said Suansing on the topic of ICC stickers.  On Suansing’s invitation, DTI office of Atty. Pete Mendoza sent a team of DTI personnel to inspect motorcycle helmets and install ICC stickers at the 5th Club Meet Up.  Hundred of helmets from the participants, including that of Ms. Love-love Tioseco were given ICC stickers.  “ICC stickers are number coded to differentiate between helmets and other commodities like electrical tapes.  Enforcers will know which stickers are for helmets, and there is stiff penalty for using wrong ICC sticker,” warned Suansing. 

Technicians from Prestone were also on hand to test brake fluids of motorcycles.  Using a handy tool, they showed to the participants that brake fluid contaminated with water by as much as 2% will have lower boiling point, resulting to overheating of the brake system, and eventual brake failure.  “The brake system is one of the most important safety feature of a motorcycle.  Once it fails, it could mean life or death to the rider,” warned Dan Santiago of Prestone.   As a goodwill, each participant was given a bottle of free brake fluid that they can use to top up or replace after they inspect their brake system.   

Present at the Club Meet Up were members from BRAD Riders, COBRA Riders, MRC "MALDITSZ", BATS, St. Apolonia Riders Club  S.A.R.C, TRC "Trail Riders Club" and solo riders.

The number of motorcycle users is growing in double digits.   Consequently, the cases of road crashes involving motorcycles are also growing in double digits.

Safe-T-Ryders is conducting a series of Bikers Club Meet-Ups to promote greater awareness among public in general, and motorcycle riders in particular.  The goal is to engage organized bikers to take active part in the promotion of road safety and reduction of road mishaps.  Through the network of motorcycle clubs, the road safety campaign is expected to reach as many riders as possible in spreading the mindset of road safety.

Arnel Doria of Safe T Ryders conducted a short discussion on the effects of alcohol when riding.  This was followed by a lively demonstration of mild and strong intoxication using the “Fatal Vision” goggles.  Club members took turns trying out the goggles and doing several exercises to test their ability to carry out simple tasks like walking along a straight line and catching a ball. 

The goggles simulate the loss of eye-and-muscle coordination due to  high BAC (blood alcohol concentration) to emphasize the very damaging effects of riding under the influence of alcohol, and its severe consequences resulting in serious injuries and even death.  With the growing number of road crashes resulting from riding under the influence of alcohol, Safe-T-Ryders is mounting a campaign against riding motorbikes after taking alcohol.

According to Safe T Ryders founder Arnel Doria who was the head of marketing for a leading car brand, "The Club Meet-Up program is part of our advocacy to engage bikers club members in the active campaign to multiply the number of responsible and disciplined bikers.  This will be a continuing program for Safe-T-Ryders Training Center and we invite corporate partners to join us in this road safety advocacy."

Club Meet Up is regularly supported by Gadgets Magazine and PGRSP, together with the official media partners: Motoring Today (Solar Sports), Stoplight TV, Auto Review (PTV4) and Inside Motoring (DZRJ).  The Caloocan leg is sponsored by Prestone, and the Barangay Government Unit of Bagumbong, represented by Atty. Joel Clamor. 

Safe-T-Ryders Training Center believes that a sound knowledge base as well as strong riding skills result in safer road users and enhance the enjoyment of motorcycle riders. 

The Club Meet-Up is open to bike club members as well as individual riders. Attendance is free of charge to qualified participants.   For interested parties and/or riders clubs who would like to host the meet up, please contact Safe T Ryders (Tel No. 208-8035 / Mobile: 0932-872-3389).  Check for updates on Facebook (www.facebook.com/safetryders). 

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Boracay Island was recently named the “World’s Best Island” for 2012 by Travel + Leisure magazine, beating hall-0f-famers such as Bali (Indonesia), Galapagos, the Great Barrier Reef Islands (Australia), Santorini (Italy), and the Hawaiian Islands of Maui, Kuai and the Big Island. Readers were asked to rate the following characteristics for the Islands category: Natural attractions, activities/sights, restaurants/food, people, value, and romance (optional).  Tourism figures have been similarly impressive: for the first half of 2012, foreign tourists to the island have reached 700,000, representing a 41% surge over previous year statistics.

One of the key factors for the international acclaim that Boracay is now reaping is the two-year old Boracay Beach Management Program (BBMP), a multi-sectoral initiative for the protection, sustainability and enhancement of the island’s coastal and marine resources. Malay Mayor John P. Yap, who recognized the importance of pursuing a comprehensive strategy among various stakeholders, launched the BBMP in September 2010. This is embodied in the rallying cry: “Para Sa Boracay Ako! For Boracay I Will…”

Now set to celebrate its 2nd year anniversary on Saturday, 29 September 2012, the BBMP is also celebrating major milestones in its seven priority areas:

Local Governance.  With strong leadership and political will, Malay Mayor John P. Yap has pushed for legislation to ensure beach cleanliness. Visitors and residents are reminded to observe municipal ordinances against littering, smoking, extracting sand and pebbles, etc. At the start of 2012, Mayor Yap led various LGU officers in a planning alignment workshop to formulate a program that will further enhance the “Boracay Experience” for tourists and locals alike.

Coastal Resources. Volunteer groups continue to perform regular beach and underwater cleanup drives. Artificial reef domes are being deployed and monitored in strategic areas to revitalize marine and aquatic life along Boracay’s waters. New coral growth from the coastal 

nurseries are being transplanted to degraded reef areas, while mangrove swamps continue to be protected.

Watershed. Under the National Greening Program, Boracay’s CENRO (Community Environment & Natural Resources Office) is committed to planting an additional 120-hectares in the watershed areas to prevent soil erosion and improve water yield for safe and potable water on the island. This is in addition to the 428-hectares of forest plantations that have been established since 2008.

Water and Waste Water.  Boracay’s water is certified to be safe for drinking straight from the tap, with meticulous testing to ensure that it is 100% compliant with the Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water (PNSDW). It has also recently upgraded its sewage treatment facilities, where wastewater is treated to be safe for marine life and suitable for recreation activities upon discharge, complying with the Class SB Standard of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Solid Waste. Boracay now has three new dump trucks for more effective garbage collection, while the materials recovery facility continues to improve the processing of residual waste. A sanitary landfill is being built as a more long-term solution to solid waste management. 

Hazard Protection.  Young and dynamic volunteers man the Boracay chapter of the Philippine National Red Cross. Trained personnel, new sea patrol craft, and upgraded communications equipment all ensure that the island has sufficient capabilities to respond to emergencies and assist in disaster relief.

Information, Education & Communication.  Workshops, seminars and training programs have been designed for the local government units to improve quality services among all tourism frontliners and ensure that tourists have a memorable “Boracay Experience.”  Social media is also being used to reach out to a wider audience through the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ForBoracay. Recently the BBMP Communications Group was also formed to publish a regular newsletter that will provide regular updates about BBMP activities.

With its previous experience in the United Nations Development Programme's Integrated Coastal Management (ICM) framework, Petron played a key role in facilitating the formation of the BBMP.  Starting out with a handful of members from the local government units, national government agencies, community organizations, youth groups and the private sector, the Boracay Beach Management Council (BBMC) now counts about 30 proponents.

The BBMP, in a span of only two years, has become a transformative force on the island of Boracay. It is a perfect example of how a dynamic public-private partnership has worked together to create the “World’s Best Island” through environmental excellence and sustainable development.

The BBMP proponents include:  The Municipality of Malay, Aklan; San Miguel Corporation; Petron Corporation; Petron Foundation Inc.; Provincial Government of Aklan; Department of Environment & Natural Resources; Boracay Foundation Inc.; Akelco Boracay; Aklan Provincial Tourism Council; Barangays Balabag, Caticlan, Kabulihan, Manoc-Manoc & Yapak; Boracay Association of Sucba Diving Schools; Boracay Island Hopping Association; Boracay Island Water Company; Boracay Island Special Fire Protection Unit; Boracay Land Transportation Multi-Purpose Cooperative; Boracay Solid Waste Management Team; Boracay Special Tourist Police Office; Boracay Yuppies; Coast Guard Detachment-Boracay; Department of Tourism-Boracay; Islander Boracay; Kiwanis Club of Boracay; Lifeguard Boracay; Malay Auxiliary Police; Malay Farm-C; Philippine Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PCCI)-Boracay; Rotary Club of Boracay; YES FM 91.1; 605th MARPSTA (Maritime Police); and 61st 1B 31D PA Task Force Boracay.

Pinoy Blogfest 3.0 is themed Caught in the Web: Both Sides of the Digital Movement, and promises a whole afternoon of exciting activities. Whether you’re a tech geek, a music buff, a gamer, afashionista, or just someone who wants to learn and discover new things, we’ve cooked up something special just for you.

The afternoon program is free and open to the public. It begins with a digital photography session courtesy of Canon Crusader of Light, Sara Black. Next on the program is a talk about Intellectual Property law by Atty. Ann Edillon of Bengzon Negre Untalan (BNU) Intellectual Property Attorneys. Diego Mapa of OPM bands Pedicab and Tarsius, and Mark Laccay from local creative funding platform Artiste Connect will also share how crowd funding can bridge the gap between consumers and content-makers.

Color It Red, Downdraft, Taken By Cars, and Ciudad will be there for special guest performances. You can win gifts and prizes from our sponsors when you participate in various activities, including a fun segment by Edifier. You can also pick out awesome finds in our fashion aisle courtesy of Supersale Bazaar, while gaming rigs from Sony will be set up for those who want free gaming action.

In the evening program, there will be a panel discussion on Internet piracy and digital rights. To give this interactive dialog are Filipino Freethinker Leloy Claudio, former IPOPHL consultant Atty. Mark Dy, and Engr. Jason Conanan from local band Hidden Nikki. Legal luminary Adel Tamano, Director for Public Affairs and Communication of Coca-Cola will be the evening’s Keynote Speaker. Concluding the program will be the announcement of the winners of the GoodBlog Awards, music from local bands Runmanila and Black Summer, and the raffle draws.

The evening program, which starts at 6:30 pm, is a BIO (By Invitation Only) event. If you wish to attend, please visit www.facebook.com/GadgetsMagazine and send a private message with your name and contact details so the organizers can put you on the guest list.

Pinoy Blogfest 3.0 is brought you by Gadgets Magazine and Coca-Cola, in cooperation with Edifier,NEO Laptops and AOC Monitors, and support from Canon Philippines, HP, Sony, Mili andDivoom, Ginebra San Miguel Premium Gin, Reebok, Supersale Bazaar, Artiste Connect, The Ateneo Musicians’ Pool, and official media partner Manila Bulletin. For more information, please visit www.gadgetsmagazine.com.ph/pinoy_blogfest3.

Five lucky Generika Drugstore customers will soon be proud owners of brand-new Suzuki Mola 125 motorcycles, after having been picked as winners of the “Win A Ride” promo during the grand raffle draw held last 13 August 2012.

The winners, drawn from different clusters nationwide, are as follows: Cherryl Buenavista (North Luzon), Diomedesia Sancha (South Luzon), Nicetas Gega (NCR), Gene De Silva (Visayas), and Virgencita Amesola (Mindanao).

The “Win A Ride” raffle promo ran from May 25 to July 31, 2012, and applied exclusively to purchases of generic medicines at all Generika Drugstore branches nationwide. A customer is entitled to one raffle coupon for every purchase worth P150 of generic medicines on a single receipt; additional coupons are earned for increments of P150. Generikard Loyalty Card holders are entitled to an additional entry coupon.

Exclusive to entries using the Generikard Loyalty Card, 1,000 winners were also awarded Generikard Loyalty points worth P200 each. These were drawn via electronic raffle draws held every Friday starting June 8 to July 27, 2012. 

Generika Drugstore was founded in September 2003 to educate Filipinos about generic brand drugs and to provide them with quality affordable generic medicines as an alternative to higher cost branded drugs. In 2009, Generika was awarded with the Quality Seal Award by the Bureau of Food & Drugs (BFAD); and in 2008, Generika Drugstore was proclaimed the national winner in the drugstore chain category by the Drugstore Association of the Philippines (DSAP). There are 300 Generika Drugstore locations nationwide.

The excitement is heating up for the Petron "Blaze Your Way to the Grand Prix" promo, with the winners announced for the first grand draw held on August 24, namely: Albert Lim of Pasig and Raymundo De Leon of Marikina.  These lucky Petron customers won a free trip for two to the Singapore Grand Prix, inclusive of round-trip air fare, 4D/3N hotel accommodations, 3-days Marina Bay Grandstand race tickets, a Universal Studios day pass, travel insurance, and an F1 survival kit.

The "Blaze Your Way to the Grand Prix" promo is an e-raffle running from July 15 to September 15, 2012, where gassing up with Petron and paying with your MasterCard gives you the chance to win a free trip to the Formula One Grand Prix.

For the minor draws held last August 15 and 24, the prizes at stake were Petron Value Cards each loaded with P10,000 worth of fuel, and passes for the Singapore race Manila viewing party scheduled for September 23. Each party pass winner may bring along 3 guests who will also enjoy the free food and drinks.

 The August 15 and August 24 winners of Petron Value Cards each loaded with P10,000 worth of fuel are: Irwin Orca, Anna Liza Alvarez, Grace Marie Oen, Jojo Esguerra, Isidro Albano, Nimrod Aubrey Norio, Christine Llenado, Romulo Miral Jr., Manuela Sy, Jennifer Tan, Agustin Castro, Claudine Gail Sy, Jonathan Emmanuel Ison, Paolo Doplon;  Chung Yung Lee, Michael Ben Mamaed, David Gaylan, Joel Lacson, Inigo Rafael Reyes, and Donnie Constantino.

The August 15 and August 24 winners of the Singapore race Manila viewing party are: Rodolfo Cacho, Mark Danielle Cuenca, Dendo Villaflor, Mark Joseph Lao, Agnes Adizas, Gilbert Ydio, Mark Philip Tang, Necisto Sytengco, Caroline Yu, Philip So, Perry Yao, Silvino Emmanuel Panganiban, Rosalinda Enrique, Pierette Kaw, Wesley Ngo, Michael Angelo Ang, Armando Aquino, Ana Lyn Manio, Edwin Lim, and Wilson King.

Hurry and gas up at participating Petron stations. The "Blaze Your Way to the Grand Prix" promo will run until September 15, with another set of minor draw and grand draw winners of a trip for 2 to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. To be eligible for the promo, the MasterCard cardholder must register on the Petron Facebook page (www.facebook.com/PetronCorporation), and click on the "Grand Prix" application tab to fill in the required information. Upon registration, the cardholder will receive an automatic email reply with a randomly assigned electronic raffle number.

Every P2,000 single receipt purchase of Petron fuels, Petron lubricants, or Petron Gasul using your MasterCard at a participating Petron station entitles the cardholder to one electronic raffle entry. If the single receipt is worth P4,000, then the customer is entitled to two electronic raffle entries. The promo is open to individuals at least 18 years old and holders of a valid Philippine passport. A participant may win only once in the promotion; non-winning entries will be included in the succeeding minor and grand draws, to be held in September.

Winners will be notified via registered mail, phone, and general circulation media (newspaper and website), and contacted for confirmation with instructions on how to claim their prizes. Winners must present two valid IDs along with the winning credit card as well as the statement of account and registered notice from Petron.

Winners will be responsible for their travel documents and other travel-related expenses such as changes in confirmed bookings, out-of-pocket expenses, spending money, meals, visas and travel insurance.

Petron is the largest oil refining and marketing company in the Philippines. Its oil refinery produces a full-range of petroleum products to supply nearly 40% of the country's total fuel requirements. With the largest service station network in the country, Petron retails gasoline, diesel and kerosene to motorists. Petron is dedicated and passionate about its vision to be the leading provider of total customer satisfaction solutions in the energy sector 

Generika Drugstore is launching a major nationwide promo exclusively for its Generikard Loyalty Card holders, through the “Generikard Mo, MyPhone Panalo!” promo, which will run from September 1 to November 15, 2012.

For every minimum single purchase of generic medicines worth P100 net of discount using your Generika Loyalty Card, you earn one electronic raffle entry. This will be indicated on your official receipt, with the following message: “Congratulations, you are now enrolled for the electronic raffle promo of Generikard Mo, MyPhone Panalo.” Since the raffle entry will be linked to your Generikard record, you do not need to fill up a raffle coupon.

There will be 5 raffle draws to pick out the winners of the following prizes: MyPhone TV phone – 100 winners per draw; Generikard Loyalty points worth P100 – 200 winners per draw; and Generika umbrella – 200 winners per draw. The draw dates are September 14 & 28, October 12 & 26, and November 15, 2012. 

A customer may win a MyPhone TV phone only once for the entire duration of the promo. Winners will be published on the Generika website and Facebook page, and will be officially notified via registered mail and/or contact numbers.

Getting a Generikard is easy: simply purchase P300 worth of generic medicines and get the card for free, or buy the Generikard for P50. You an apply for a Generikard at any Generika Drugstore nationwide. With your Generikard, you can earn points for all your purchases at Generika Drugstore outlets. Each point earned is equivalent to P1, and can be redeemed at all Generika branches. The Generikard also gives you access to special offers such as discounts on monthly featured products. It also provides exclusive privileges, like the Generikard MyPhone raffle promo.

Generika Drugstore was founded in September 2003 to educate Filipinos about generic brand drugs and to provide them with quality affordable generic medicines as an alternative to higher cost branded drugs. In 2009, Generika was awarded with the Quality Seal Award by the Bureau of Food & Drugs (BFAD); and in 2008, Generika Drugstore was proclaimed the national winner in the drugstore chain category by the Drugstore Association of the Philippines (DSAP). There are 300 Generika Drugstore locations nationwide.

Trade in your old, working or non-working navigation devices and get a brand new AVT Navigator for as low as P3,500 at the 2012 Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS), to be held from August 16-19, 2012, at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

While many smartphones and tablets now offer mapping and navigation services, these usually require an internet connection (whether Wi-Fi or broadband) and can drain your device's battery quickly. Thus, for car buffs who enjoy being on the road, a portable navigation device is still a must-have gadget.

And to make it easier to own a brand new AVT Navigator, 2012 PIMS visitors may trade in old units to avail of hefty discounts on AVT PN models, some going for more than 50% off. In fact, the most affordable model will be priced at P3,500.

For those interested in additional security, the AVT iSTAR portable tracking device will be offered at a very affordable P6,000. This comes with a free android app, while iPhone/iPad owners can view vehicle tracking on a mobile site.

Rounding out the exclusive promotional offers is the 30% discount being given for customized vehicle multi-media systems for various car brands/models. The AVT multimedia head units include navigation, a tv tuner, and other features. Custom head units are available for the Honda CRV and Civic; Hyundai Accent, Elantra, Sonata and Tucson; Subaru Forester and Legacy; Toyota Camry and Prado; and others. 

All purchases are eligible for 0-interest installment payments using any major credit card.

AVT (which stands for Audio-Video Technology) specializes in premium audio-visual entertainment systems for mobile applications.  In addition to navigation systems, the company also carries a range of mobile tracking devices for vehicle and personal security.  AVT offers a wide range of in-car mobile electronics, including display monitors, DVD players, digital and analog terrestrial receivers, sound processor/high-power amplifiers, specialist speakers, and AV controllers and accessories to suit all types of in-vehicle installations.  Aside from consumer products that retail in car dealer accessories shops, AVT is also an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for many of the country’s leading car brands.   iNAV is a subsidiary company dedicated to providing mapping support exclusively for AVT navigation devices.  

Generika Drugstore was chosen as a BPI Family Ka-Negosyo Accredited Franchise Brand for 2012-2013, in simple ceremonies held last 24 July 2012, at the Bayanihan Center in Mandaluyong City.

This accreditation is part of the Ka-Negosyo Best List program of BPI Family Savings Bank, which chooses and supports the franchise brands that have excellent growth potential. According to BPI Family Ka-Negosyo, it "grants the seal of approval to franchise brands that observe superior financial soundness, strong technical and marketing support for its franchisees, and transparency in business practice."

The Ka-Negosyo plaque, received by Generika Drugstore president Teodoro L. Ferrer, is a recommendation from BPI Family Savings Bank  that Generika Drugstore is deemed worthy to be included in the bank's guide to the best recommended, most established, profitable and franchisee-friendly brands in the country.

With this endorsement, entrepreneurs who are interested in opening a Generika Drugstore franchise can easily avail of the bank's Ka-Negosyo Franchising Loan to help them get started and to keep the business growing. As an accredited franchise partner, Generika Drugstore franchisees enjoys exclusive privileges such as no-collateral franchising loan, short processing time. and preferential exposure for bank marketing initiatives.

During the upcoming Franchise Asia Philippines 2012 held at the SMX Convention Center last July 25-29, 2012, Generika Drugstore, the 2011 Most Promising Filipino Franchise awardee, offered Filipino entrepreneurs the opportunity to invest on a proven business model that guarantees excellent returns.

With franchising as its main growth strategy, Generika Drugstore aims to establish a total of 400 outlets nationwide by early next year with a significant presence in the Visayas and Mindanao. This is in line with its vision to become the leading drugstore chain in the country.

Franchisees who sign up with Generika will have the assurance of an award-winning business model recognized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Philippine Franchising Association (PFA) when it was named the Most Promising Filipino Franchise in 2011. The award was based on a set of carefully criteria, including the franchise concept, sales and marketing, franchise operating system, corporate social responsibility, ethical practices and reputation, growth and financial performance, and profitability.

Those who are interested in becoming part of the Generika family may visit www.generika.com.ph, or call the dedicated franchising desk at 828-1818 loc 106 for more information. 

In line with Petron Corporation's mission to be the leading provider of total customer solutions in the energy sector, the company is expanding its trademark Lakbay Alalay program into a full-blown, year-round campaign.

Now billed as Lakbay Alalay, Kasama Mo Sa Biyahe, the expanded program includes a slate of activities reaching far beyond the traditional motorist assistance services. Through this program, Petron hopes to strengthen the bond of companionship and unity with Filipinos everywhere, in all aspects of their daily lives.

Petron Lakbay Alalay Biyahe Para Sa Kalikasan. Gassing up at a Petron station gives you the privilege of having a tree planted in your name.  Under the Petron Lakbay Alalay Para Sa Kalikasan, motorists who fuel up at any Petron station can join the "Stick it Free, Plant-a-tree" activity, wherein you can avail of a single sticker, equivalent to one tree seedling named after you during Petron's tree-planting activities. In partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Philippine Army, volunteers from Petron and other groups joined together to plant trees in Cebu, Davao and Metro Manila.  Some of the tree seedlings planted were hardwood (molave and narra) and fruit trees (langka and mango). In Cebu, 3,000 trees were planted last 01 June 2012 at Barangay Busay, Cebu City. This was followed on 02 June 2012 at the Davao International Airport, where 700 seedlings were planted. Finally, at the Kaliwa Watershed Forest Reserve in Sto. Niño, Tanay, Rizal, two thousand seedlings were planted last 22 June 2012.

Petron Lakbay Alalay Para Sa Kalusugan. Petron also hosted a fun run last 17 June 2012, as part of its health-oriented activities, with 1,812  running enthusiasts competing in the 3k, 5k and 10k categories.  Winners in the 3k category were Vernon Jude and Perlita Ruben, who each took home P5,000 Petron e-Fuel Card; in the 5k category, Richard Solano and Cindy Lorenzo were each awarded P7,000 Petron eFuel Card; while Willy Rotich and Jackine Nzivo earned P10,000 Petron e-Fuel Card for winning the 10k category.  All winners also received P3,000 Suriya Spa gift certificates, and gift packs from Magnolia Ice Cream and San Miguel Properties.

The Petron Lakbay Alalay Fun Run was held for the benefit of the Tulong Aral ng Petron project, a long-term and strategic initiative that helps send poor children to school. Tulong Aral scholars are enrolled from Grades 1 to 6 in partner schools in the National Capitol Region (Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela, Manila, Pasay, Mandaluyong, Quezon City, Parañaque, Taguig, Pateros, Pasig and Las Piñas) and in the Mindanao region (Davao, South Cotabato, Sarangani, Iligan, Misamis Oriental and Zamboanga). 

Partners in the Petron Lakbay Alalay Fun Run included ROX, Travel Club, Chris Sports, Magnolia Water, Zen Health, Business Mirror, Net 25, TxtFire, San Mig Coffee Pro Health, Magnolia Ice Cream, Fitness First, Multi-Sport Magazine, Hungry Juan, Smokey's, Dole, Wi-Tribe, Bank of Commerce, Pinoy Fitness, Suriya Spa, San Mig Strong Ice, San Miguel Properties, and San Miguel Purefoods.

Alberto Suansing, the former LTO Chief and now Secretary General of Phil Global Road Safety Partnership, hosted the 4th Bikers Club Meet Up held last June 30 at the Rasak Covered Gym in Tayuman, Manila.  Several motorcycle clubs from Tondo, Kalookan, Navotas, Malabon, Makati and Valenzuela responded to Mr. Suansing’s invitation and spent the whole afternoon exchanging views on the current affairs of motorcycle riding.

“Motorcycles are designed for two passengers.  With affordable monthly payment, many couples find the motorcycle as an economical alternative to using crowded public transport,” said Suansing on the topic of tandem riding.

When asked comment on the ban on “open pipes” Suansing says, “As LTO Chief I issued memorandum order banning loud and noisy exhaust pipes, as they are nuisance to the community and residents where motorcycle riders pass.”

Members of Underbone Fury Riders (Malabon), Burlington Riders (Makati), Brad Riders (Kalookan), Bagwis Riders (Tondo), Bright Lights (Valenzuela) and NMPC (Navotas) gamely exchanged comments and shared their insights on other topics like backriding of children, checkpoints and arguing with traffic enforcers.

The number of motorcycle users is growing in double digits.   Consequently, the cases of road crashes involving motorcycles are also growing in double digits.  While we are alarmed by everyday accounts of bloody bike crashes, little is being done to mitigate them. 

Safe-T-Ryders is conducting a series of Bikers Club Meet-Ups to promote greater awareness among public in general, and motorcycle riders in particular.  The goal is to engage organized bikers to take active part in the promotion of road safety and reduction of road mishaps.

Sul Guiabel, instructor from Safe T Ryders conducted a short discussion on the effects of alcohol when riding.  This was followed by a lively demonstration of mild and strong intoxication using the “Fatal Vision” goggles.  Club members took turns trying out the goggles and doing several exercises to test their ability to carry out simple tasks like walking along a straight line and catching a ball.

The goggles simulate the loss of eye-and-muscle coordination due to  high BAC (blood alcohol concentration) to emphasize the very damaging effects of riding under the influence of alcohol, and its severe consequences resulting in serious injuries and even death.  With the growing number of road crashes resulting from riding under the influence of alcohol, Safe-T-Ryders is mounting a campaign against riding motorbikes after taking alcohol.

According to Safe T Ryders founder Arnel Doria who was the head of marketing for a leading car brand, "The Club Meet-Up program is part of our advocacy to engage bikers club members in the active campaign to multiply the number of responsible and disciplined bikers.  This will be a continuing program for Safe-T-Ryders Training Center and we invite corporate partners to join us in this road safety advocacy."

Club Meet Up is regularly supported by Gadgets Magazine, PGRSP and Independent Realty Corporation, together with the official media partners: Motoring Today (Solar Sports), Stoplight TV, Auto Review (PTV4) and Inside Motoring (DZRJ).  The Manila leg is sponsored by Prestone brake fluid which gave away one bottle each to the participants, and the Manila City government of Mayor Alfredo Lim. 

Safe-T-Ryders Training Center believes that a sound knowledge base as well as strong riding skills result in safer road users and enhance the enjoyment of motorcycle riders. The training center is manned by Julius Ballesteros, a TESDA-certified instructor who has just completed a two-year stint as a safety driving instructor of a large Saudi Arabian company, and Sulfikar Guiabel, an experienced LTO-accredited riding/driving instructor.

The Club Meet-Up is open to bike club members as well as individual riders. Attendance is free of charge to qualified participants.   For interested parties and/or riders clubs who would like to host the meet up, please contact Safe T Ryders (Tel No. 208-8035 / Mobile: 0932-872-3389).  Check for updates on Facebook (www.facebook.com/safetryders).