Introducing: Doctor Manny Pacquiao

Okay, this is some next level breaking news!

Manny Pacquiao was just awarded an honorary doctorate in human kinetics by the Southwestern University in Cebu.

SAY WHAT?!

That’s right, read ‘em and weep. It’s now Dr. Manny Pacquiao! Apparently his success in the boxing world makes him the perfect example of great human kinetics. Human kinetics as described by an article I read is and I quote, ” Human Kinetics is a study on sports, fitness and health. It aims to provide a dynamic environment that supports academic excellence in sports, recreation and physical activity through inspired teaching, creative research and and meaningful achievements.”

Man, don’t get me wrong. I’m a fan of what Manny has done in the field of boxing, but seriously, all this hero worship is a bit much no? Many times, he has been touted as a National Hero, a savior and inspiration to the poor. Are we that desperate to find our modern day heroes that we resort to Manny? Can’t we have any of those NGO volunteers? Or those who really have an impact in changing lives? I can accept the OFW being touted heroes for their sacrifice, but sorry Manny, as much as I like you as a boxer, you’re no hero. Maybe someday you can, but presently. No. But I digress.

To be fair to Manny, although he wasn’t able to finish his secondary schooling (or highschool as we call it here in the Philippines), I give him props for taking the Department of Education exam to acquire his highschool diploma. And supposedly he’s now trying to finish his degree in some school. I’ll give him the benefit of the doubt that he really took and passed that exam and not just because he is the Pacman.

Lost Generation

I got this from my friend on Facebook. It’s such an awesome copy, execution could’ve been better but I have no words for how good the copy is.

Kraft Foods Undergo Rebranding

Having one of the most recognizable logos in the world, Kraft Foods recently underwent a global rebranding, unveiling a new corporate logo. Initally set to appear in this communications and offices, it will eventually trickle down into their food products.

The new logo features a red curved line which represents a smile, which bursts into several colors at the end. Each color represents the various divisions with Kraft Foods. Along with the new logo, comes the tagline, “Make Today Delicious”. Kraft Foods’ CEO Irene Rosenfeld says that the logo was meant to give an uplifting message in our current enviroment where there is a lot of pessimism around the world. The logo was developed with inputs from consumers, employees & various stakeholders.

Changing logos will always be a difficult process to undergo. There can never be any assurances that the public will be willing to accept the new logo or be comfortable with it. Especially for a big brand like Kraft, where their logo is easily one of the most recognizable out there.

I initally didn’t like the rebranding, the font used on the logo seems a bit too faddish and doesn’t have that ‘timeless’ feel. But after reading what some of the design elements stand for. I’m willing to give them the benefit of the doubt. Let’s see where they can take this new direction towards to. Perhaps it’s the nostalgic in me, growing up with the old logos. Reminiscing those times where I used to enjoy Kraft’s crackers with cheese or their cheese slices.

Coca-Cola x Justice

Coca-Cola recently collaborated with Justice and Ed Banger Records creative director So Me to create a bottle design for Club Coke this 2009. The bottle has a special feature which makes it red during the day and at night, it glows in the dark.

From what I understand, the Club Coke initiative is an exclusive line that’s available only in the best clubs and bars in the world. This is the 5th year they’ve run this campaign.

For a 5 year campaign, this sure is the first time I’ve heard of such an initiative. Then again, I don’t go to clubs that often. And even if I did, I don’t think people would go to the clubs to drink Coke. Well they do, but usually mixed with other alcoholic beverages which they serve IN A GLASS.

And, no offense to Busy P and the Ed Banger crew, but Justice is so 2007. Leave it to the big corporate bigwigs to jump on a trend late, once again. I guess this could also be the sign of the times. With the global recession upon us, companies will probably try to extend the life of current trends as long as they can to maximize their investment, even if it means riding the coattails of the dying hipster scene.

With those thoughts out of the way, I must say that as much as I hate it, the fact that I’m talking about it and probably a few hundred blogs and a few million readers are too, makes this campaign a successful one. Hell, they probably didn’t even intend for this campaign to generate sales on the onset, just a very buzz-worthy branding campaign. After all, people are still drinking rum & COKE right?

Check out the video for the campaign below: