Caltex Gives Away Apple Gadgets Daily In “An Apple a Day” Promo

Qualified customers can win more than once and join lucky draw

“An apple a day” takes on new meaning starting Feb. 18 when Caltex, the only fuel brand with Techron that keeps engines cleaner, gives away five Apple gadgets per day, from Mondays to Fridays.

A customer can win more than once and, aside from the daily Apple prizes, can also take home Apple gadgets through a raffle draw.

For a minimum purchase worth P500, single receipt or accumulated, made within the promo period from participating Caltex stations nationwide,  a customer will receive a thermal receipt indicating on-the-spot if customer wins any of the following Apple gadgets: iPhone 5 16GB, iPad Mini 16GB, iPod Touch 5th Generation 32GB, and iPod Nano 7th Generation 16GB.

Customers can also fill in their coupon with their contact details to join the raffle draw on March 27, 2013 for another chance at winning Apple gadgets. Raffle winners will be displayed in posters at various Caltex stations and informed through registered mail.

Participating stations are in the following areas: select Caltex stations in Metro Manila, North Luzon, South Luzon, Cebu, Davao and Cagayan de Oro. Promo runs from February 18 – March 15, 2013. Per DTI-NCR Permit No XXXX, Series of 2013. See posters and flyers for more information or, for updates on other Caltex promos and activities, visit www.facebook.com/CaltexPhilippines.

Chevron Philippines Inc., owns and markets the Caltex brand of fuel and lubricants.

Devex names Manila’s top 40 development leaders

Devex, in partnership with Chevron Corporation, recently announced the final list of awardees for the Manila 40 Under 40 – a global program that recognizes and honors 40 international development leaders under the age of 40 from cities around the world.

Following a public nominations process and rigorous review of  more than 250 nominees, the Manila 40 Under 40 awardees were selected based on their influence on the development agenda and impact on development results in the Philippines and abroad.

Some of the awardees are co-founder of Microventures Inc. Bam Aquino, YesPinoy founder and chairman Dingdong Dantes, Malasakit Fnd. founder Kara David, and Valenzuela City Mayor Sherwin Gatchalian.

The awardees form an accomplished group of development professionals working in international organizations, the Philippine government, civil society, social enterprises, and media. They join the distinguished ranks of past Devex 40 Under 40 winners such as USAID Administrator Rajiv Shah, Google’s Jared Cohen, and Obama Administration Senior Foreign Policy Advisor Samantha Power.

The Manila 40 Under 40 follows similar events in London in 2011 and Washington DC in 2010, the Philippines is the first developing country to host Devex.

“The Philippines is home to an extremely dynamic and vibrant international development community driving change both at home and abroad,” said Devex Manila Director Pete Troilo. “The young and committed development talent here deserves this recognition. We couldn’t be more proud to have selected the Philippines as the first emerging country to host this event,” said Troilo.

Chevron, the founding sponsor of the Devex 40 Under 40, has four companies in the country. These are Chevron Philippines Inc., which markets the Caltex brand of fuel and lubricants; Chevron Holdings Inc.; the 1st multinational regional operating HQ recognized by government; affiliate Philippine Geothermal Production Company; a pioneer in geothermal energy; and Chevron Malampaya LLC; a pioneer of the Philippine natural gas industry.

“Chevron Corporation, in partnership with Devex, congratulates the next generation of leaders in international development. As one of the world’s largest integrated energy companies, Chevron is committed to improving social, environmental and economic conditions where we operate,” said Peter Morris, country chair Chevron Philippines Inc..

Chevron is helping develop communities in the country through its Caltex Energy for Learning (EFL) initiative which supports educational programs like the TB awareness campaign, the Pugad Pandesal, KAPATID, Loaves and Fishes and others. Over the past five years, Chevron invested 50 million pesos in EFL projects that have benefited close to 22,000 people.

“Our focus on sustainable employment opportunities promotes self-sufficiency. With partners, we identify and promote programs to expand access to basic human needs, enable education and skills training opportunities, and promote sustainable livelihoods which build better standards of living and create a more stable operating environment,” added Morris.

The awardees will be honored at a reception on Feb. 19 at the new Zuellig Building in Makati City.

Members of the selection committee were Pete Troilo, Director, Devex Manila; Rafael Lopa, Executive Director, Philippine Business for Social Progress; John Forbes, Senior Adviser, American Chamber of Commerce Philippines; Marites Dañguilan-Vitug, Editor-at-Large, Rappler; and  Richard Hirsch, Chairman, Applied Planning & Infrastructure, Inc.

A Romantic Destination Guide for You and Your Beau

Photo courtesy of balaiisabel.com

Prime your car before hitting the road


This season of love, escape the bustling city and go on a romantic weekend roadtrip with the man of your life. But before you drive off to your destination of choice, take a quick look under the hood and make sure that your car is in fine shape for the journey ahead. Leading automotive parts supplier Bosch Philippines shares 4 exciting drive-to destinations and some car maintenance tips and safety measures you should take to make your trip fun, safe and worry-free.

If you want an expert’s opinion on your car’s health before leaving the city, visit car service professionals at Bosch accredited car workshops around the metro. Bosch Car Service Workshops offer general mechanical vehicle repairs and provide expert, cross-brand service in the field of automotive electrics. Whether coming for a repair, a regular maintenance or a truthful vehicular assessment before your trip, Bosch Car Service Workshops offer personal and convenient services for your every need.

Isabelo Garden Restaurant, Marikina

Tucked away in the city of Marikina is a lush garden that’s perfect for an intimate meal. If you and your man are suckers for good food and great ambiance, let the Isabelo Garden Restaurant treat you to a homey experience that‘s sure to make the occasion. Isabelo’s dinner roll includes a slew of mouth-watering dishes that will make you and your beau feel nostalgic of grandma’s home-spun cuisine.

While en route to Marikina, make sure that you are out of harm’s way by keeping the brakes in tip-top shape. Increase the braking capacity of your vehicle by keeping its fluid at prime level, and be sure that the amount of fluid perfectly matches the vehicle’s system and needs. A quick pedal and hand brake inspection before revving up the engine will help you avoid road accidents.

Drop by the nearest BCS Workshops in the area, the Bionicwheels Service Center in Quezon City (Contact No: 02 9124917, 02 9124921) or the Eco-Tech Autoserve in Antipolo (Contact No: 02-6828156), on your way to or from Marikina City.

18th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in Clark, Pampanga

Spend a day in the air this season of hearts. Take a little adventure at the Clark Freeport Zone Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. Whether you‘re with a special someone or with the entire family, this perfect weekend escapade will surely take your bond to new heights. Hit the road at daybreak to catch a view of colorful and creative hot air balloons or have an exciting ride on one yourself. The Hot Air Balloon Fiesta kicks off on February 21 – 24, 2013 at Clark Freeport Zone in Clark, Pampanga.

Skip the inconvenience of having your battery die on you in the middle of the freeway and make sure to inspect your car battery before making your way to the North Luzon EXpress Way (NLEX). Being the supplier of electric energy to cars, car batteries must have long operational life, faster recharging time and greater overcharge resistance. Made by the premium battery brand in 104 countries in the world, Bosch Passenger Car Batteries offer high product specifications and dependable power. The Bosch Battery S5 surpasses international standards set by original equipment manufacturers and provides safe and powerful energy supply even at extreme temperatures.

Check out the nearest BCS Workshops in the area, the Midas Pampanga Car Network (Contact Number: 045-9639309) and Autostar in Bulacan (Contact Number: 0044-8404062), for a quick car assessment.

Club Balai Isabel in Tagaytay

Pack up for a serene get-away to this lofty manor in Tagaytay. The cool breeze and relaxing atmosphere is perfect for workaholic couples looking for a well-deserved break. Club Balai is the nearest lodge to the Taal Volcano, making it an accessible stop for thrill-seekers. Why not go for a little hike up the countryside landmark? A quick backpacking session allows you and your beau to savor every bit of the scenery Taal has to offer.

While steering the wheel on the way up to Tagaytay, drivers must have a clear and extensive visibility. For the your safety and the safety of your fellow motorists, examine the lights of your car before heading to your destination. Fine tune the car lamp’s brightness and aim to effectively communicate with other drivers on the road.

Drive by Midas Car Network in Paranaque (Contact Number: 02-8240020) for some expert car advice before heading to the south-bound freeway.

Cubao X in Cubao

For those who aren’t planning to take a long straining drive, a trip to one of Quezon City’s most popular stops can make a good weekend celebration. Sneak away from the metro’s posh bars and clubs, and get a thrill out of the music and arts at Cubao X.

Cubao X is a modern community filled with energy and lip-smacking eats. It boasts of a growing culture fueled by the country’s famed and emerging artists. You may take a stroll and shop for trinkets in unique kiosks in the area. Enjoy good music and contemporary art while having a relaxed and easygoing experience. Cubao X’s great vibe will definitely seal the weekend on a high note.

Drive through the metro (and long traffic jams) with maximum performance by tidying up your car‘s oil and air filters. Roadside filth can contaminate the car oil and have an impact on the vehicle’s capacity, while a locked air filter will affect the vehicle’s air circulation in the engine. To avoid a driving nightmare, be on the lookout for any signals of damaged filters.

Stop over any of the nearest BCS Workshops in Quezon City, including Top Gear Auto Service Center, Inc (02-7217893) and Bionicwheels Service Center (Contact Number: 02-9124917) for a quick car assessment.

A well-maintained vehicle can guarantee a pleasant driving experience. BCS Workshops bring quality automotive tune-ups and maintenance. From tires to car control systems, Bosch offers solutions and engineering expertise accessible to every motorist in Manila. Check out any of the BCS Workshops before you and your love tread the road ahead.

Volvo North EDSA Centris is now open for business

Volvo opens its doors to all Volvo enthusiasts at the northern metro through Volvo North EDSA Centris.

(From L-R) Volvo North EDSA Chief Financial Officer and Vice Chairman, Mr. William Tan with Mr. Vincent Licup, Chairman and CEO of Vovo North EDSA receives the Official Volvo Dealer Plaque presented by Volvo Cars Asia Pacific President, Mr. Carl Goran Larsson.

The Volvo North EDSA Centris is located at Two Cyberpod ETON Centris, EDSA corner Quezon Avenue, Quezon City. Call (02) 376 4943, 376 4947, 376 4965 for a test drive.

Drivers for TB Awareness in QC

Ride a bus, be TB aware: The Caltex TB awareness campaign has spread to reach commuters of QC public buses plying EDSA

Caltex and QCHO train jeepney and bus drivers as volunteer TB treatment partners

To beat tuberculosis (TB), early detection and treatment are crucial. Fortunately, with the “Caltex Labanan ang TB, para Tsuper Healthy” TB awareness campaign, more than 10,000 jeepney and bus drivers plying Metro Manila are now TB aware and are pro-active fighters of this endemic disease.

Of these, at least 52 public transport drivers were trained by the Quezon City Health Dept. (QCHD) as volunteer TB treatment partners. As treatment partners, the drivers are qualified to teach colleagues the facts about the disease, dispel myths and encourage their siblings in the industry to seek medical assistance early, thereby helping stop the spread of TB. The driver-trainors also help in patient treatment by making sure medicines are taken daily. This effort will hopefully reduce the number of attrition cases which in turn lead to patients becoming more drug resistant – and more difficult and more expensive to cure.

To broaden the reach of this awareness campaign, Caltex uses a TB awareness bus where trainors can hold onboard seminars, distribute posters, flyers, stickers and promote the Caltex TB helpline (865-1010). The seminars focus on correcting common misconceptions, emphasize prevention, early detection and cure.

TB kills 75 Filipinos every day and is the sixth leading deadly disease in the country. Worldwide, the Philippines ranked as the 22nd country with the highest number of TB cases while it is second only to China in Western Pacific region (www.who,int/tb).

Dr. Antonieta V. Inumerable, head of QCHD, said, “We welcome and support the efforts of Caltex to eradicate TB in the country. QC has a large population that public transport workers serve. If we can raise the health of our drivers, then their passengers are protected as well from TB.” Aside from the training of driver volunteers, Dr. Inumerable has also pledged that QCHD will help monitor, report and test drivers referred by the campaign.

Prior to the awareness drive, Chevron donated US$5 million to fight TB in the Philippines. As a result, almost 8,175 service deliverers were educated in providing quality TB services. More than 6,144 health care providers were trained in community care and treatment for Multi-Drug Resistant (MDR) TB were provided to about 1,778 patients who were no longer responding to first line anti-TB drugs. MDR treatment costs more than P200,000 for at least 18 months of treatment.

Through its Anti-TB Helpline 381-1010, Caltex also established a link between the public and free TB treatment facilities such as Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course (DOTS) centers. People who call the helpline are directed to the DOTS center nearest where they reside.

Peter Morris, country chairman of CPI, said, “Chevron places the highest priority on the health and safety of its people including customers and communities that host its facilities like Quezon City, home to more than 30 Caltex stations.”

The campaign had its pilot site in Makati and Manila where almost 5,000 jeepney drivers and their families where engaged. In QC, Caltex also partnered with bus companies that endorsed the campaign to their employees as part of their occupational safety program ordered by the Department of Labor. A growing number of bus companies are also showing the TB awareness video on their buses as they ply their routes along EDSA.

“This information drive highlights Caltex’s unwavering commitment to being a good partner focused on building productive, collaborative, trusting and beneficial relationships with customers and host communities,” adds Morris. Caltex is working with Department of Health, the QCHD, public transport groups, and other relevant agencies in this campaign.

Zeny Maranan, president of Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines (FEJODAP) and 1-UTAK partylist representative, said, “Caltex has always delivered good programs for public transport drivers like this health campaign. So I tell my drivers to always listen to Caltex and get tested for TB now if you love your families.”

Chevron Philippines Inc. is the marketer of high quality brand of Caltex fuel and lubricants.