Microsoft launches Vista in Cebu

Following the success of Windows XP, Microsoft Philippines, the local subsidiary of Microsoft Corporation, launched Windows Vista, its much-anticipated operating system that promises to deliver breakthrough experiences in the field of computing, and enable people to live out their passions in gadgets, music, work and family.

Touted as Microsoft's highest quality release in five years, Windows Vista will transform the way people create and share information.

"For the past five years, Microsoft invested heavily in research and development to come up with the best version of Windows yet.

Over four million users and beta testers worldwide were involved in creating and enhancing Vista in terms of security, usability, and functionality," said Magtanggol "Boy" Bawal, Sales Operation Director, Microsoft Southern Philippines.

"This is a very significant milestone as it is the biggest product launch in the history of Microsoft Philippines yet. It took Microsoft five years to release the next version of Windows and now, it's finally here. We are very excited to launch Vista and Office 2007 in Cebu," added Bawal.

Part of its launching last February 16, there was a big motorbike caravan participated in by the Redeemers Riders Club, which consists of major players in the business sector, which signaled the arrival of Windows Vista and Microsoft Office 2007 in Cebu.

The group of motorbikers traversed Lahug, Escario, and Osmena Boulevard, and finished at the Ayala Center, where Windows Vista and Office 2007 were officially launched.

The launch of Windows Vista in the Philippines started with an advocacy campaign that Microsoft has embarked on titled "Stars for Empowerment". The program involves celebrities and media partners tasked to identify different individuals to whom they can donate a laptop powered with the new Windows Vista.

"Our mission in the Philippines is to enable people to maximize their full potential through technology. Microsoft believes that equipping people with the right software and tools will give them the capacity to explore big possibilities. The recipients of the computers with Windows Vista are now empowered to pursue their passions and realize their potential," said Bawal.

As part of the big launch in Cebu, the Redeemers Riders Club was tasked to identify a beneficiary whom they believe could be empowered by Windows Vista.

"These new products from Microsoft will greatly enhance the productivity and efficiency of the users," said Eric Collarin, President, Redeemers Riders Club.

"Windows Vista and 2007 Office will definitely help not only business organizations but also schools like Kalunasan II Elementary School, which we chose as our beneficiary, to empower the students and allow them to maximize the use of technology in education," Collarin added.

The official unveiling of Windows Vista and Microsoft Office 2007 was followed by video presentations and product demonstrations, which showcased the exciting new features of the latest operating system.

Microsoft also raffled off different prizes to consumers who took part in the event. Spectacular video and lighting presentations capped off the day Cebu celebrated the general availability of Windows Vista and Microsoft Office 2007.

With the launch of its latest operating system, Microsoft also arranged different activities for the consumers at the Ayala Center where consumers were able to get an in-depth experience of Windows Vista through the different passion kiosks.

With the help of its industry partners, PC sales of Windows Vista-compatible desktops on select computer stores were also carried out.

Windows Vista promises to enrich the user interface feeling starting with a very sleek, refreshing look evident throughout the entire computing experience, from the Windows Photo Gallery all the way to the innovative Windows Media Center. Keeping and sharing digital memories is now enjoyable as the activities themselves with intuitive controls. Designed in anticipation of what is available on the Internet nowadays, parents are empowered to monitor and manage their children's activities online, ensuring their safety when using the PC with Windows Vista.

With thousands of different file formats available, Windows Vista ensures clarity and ease when working across different files. This new operating system has features that will amplify the information worker's output by making document searching faster and easier, leading to the user becoming more productive and efficient in his work.

The advent of consumer-centric technology has led to the proliferation of different gadgets designed for everyday use. Windows Vista is highly interoperable with gadgets such as mobile phones, mobile music players, video cameras and digital cameras when it comes to uploading, filing, sharing, editing and printing.

For music lovers who cannot imagine life without music, enthusiasts will definitely enjoy their passion whether on the go or at home via Windows Vista's Windows Media Player and Windows Media Center, both of which will bring a more enjoyable and refreshing music experience.

More than contributing to productivity, Windows Vista is also an important tool in empowering people's lives and enriching individual experiences.

Windows Vista and Office 2007 will equip home and business users alike with the tools that will enable them to explore big possibilities and live out their passions.