The Top Ten Emerging Influential Blogs of 2013

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Blogs are very influential!

That's actually an understatement. Blogs rule the online world! Google loves blogs! Many people rely on blogs to provide them with fast, convenient, reliable and credible information. I think all of the online information I have accumulated from the past years for my research came from blogs and social media networks.

Regardless of what others are saying, the information gathered from blogs are from real people with real experiences and real feelings. Each and everyone has different reasons why they have started blogging, each one has their own unique style of writing and expressing, but many share a common passion to reach out to the world - generously and with open arms - to make a socially interconnected world.

Bloggers are well motivated individuals with the ultimate goal and desire to express (and somehow unknowingly impress) and share their opinions and emotions - heartfelt and cherished experiences straight from the heart and soul. The readers may accept, object, and/or reject, but one thing is for sure - blogs truly influence people. 

Here are my Top Ten Emerging Influential Blogs for 2013:

Hooray for Anime!

(c) http://shoujo1daisuki.wordpress.com/2011/07/21/what-is-an-anime-marathon-and-why-you-shouldnt-do-it/

Wazzup Pilipinas! 

Anime! Anime! Anime! What is the origin of the anime? Many teenagers are addicted to it, but why? Let us all know the origin of the anime and what is it all about. 

Anime is basically Japanese animation. It is largely based on manga, or Japanese comics. Anime is very popular in Japan, and in countries all over the place. It is well known throughout the world. 

There are many ways anime is broadcasted. Majority of the times, viewers watch their favorite anime videos through the internet. Internet is the main way viewers from all over the world are able to watch these. It is mainly watched on television in Japan. 

For new anime, one new episode is released on a weekly basis. Viewers from all over the world anxiously wait for the release of new episodes. For anime, one season usually comprise of around 24 episodes. Each episode is around 24 minutes long, including the opening and ending song. But Where did it come from?

Mali Is Suffering But The Good News Is She's On Her Way to Zoobic Safari

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The photo above was posted online by GMA Network News Online last February 2013 and I decided to repost this when I saw photos of Mali (The Asian elephant who was stolen from her family at 3 years old and imprisoned at the Manila Zoo in the Philippines) on a Facebook friend's timeline along with a status that shares his imaginary conversation with the the elephant.

PETA has caled for the transfer of the Mali from Manila Zoo to a sanctuary in Thailand. They insisted that Mali is in a wretched state given that her enclosure is too small for her. She was even suffering from some kind of foot disease and from “profound loneliness” having no other elephant companion in decades.

Indeed, Mali is by her lonesome at the Manila Zoo, with no other elephant to give her companionship or an opportunity to mate with other elephants. Mali has been held at the zoo for 36 long years, 33 of them completely alone. But Dr. Donald Manalastas, Manila Zoo's Zoological Division chief, said before that the trip to Thailand may be dangerous to the pachyderm's health since the long distance transportation will be very stressful to the "fairly old" animal.

But I've heard news that Mali will be transferred instead to another zoo, but bigger and better, that's also located wihtin the Philippines. Is that better news or not?

Steak Spree Thursday at Diamond Hotel Philippines

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Diamond Hotel Philippines dares to unleash the carnivore in you. Get ready to partake of lovely slabs of meat (heavy chunks of beef with good marbling) that were seasoned and seared to perfection and tenderly cooked over a flame at their Steak Spree Thursday dinner night at Corniche, the hotel's elegant restaurant located at the lobby level.

The restaurant showcases a grand buffet with cuisines from different parts of the world (Western, Mediterranean, Japanese, and many more from Asia and the Pacific) matched with an impeccable service from the restaurant attendants that could all be at your beck and call starting at 6 pm dinner time.

We tried three varieties of medium rare cooked steaks and they were all quite fascinatingly tender, juicy and delish at every bite. The beef was firm, but not tough, and packed with flavor. Honestly, you don't need any special sauce or gravy to perk up the taste. They were all good on their own but you could probably sprinkle a little sea salt to draw in the flavor if you're the type who prefers their steak a bit salty. Every slice of the steak comes away smoothly without much effort from the knife. It was indeed a memorable steak experience as I could still nibble the taste off my tongue like I've just eaten it.

Mocha Wears a Nun Outfit While Blowing a Condom

Wazzup Pilipinas!"After going full frontal in Playboy Philippines last year, intrepid singer-actress Mocha Uson has courted controversy again with her latest magazine pictorial. The frontwoman of the Mocha Girls donned a nun’s costume and blew a condom for the Freedom of Expression Issue of the free advocacy magazine Isda, to be released in September." - Interaksyon

Mocha clarified that she does not mean to offend the religious sector.

“Sa ibang bansa nga ginagawa ito… Basically it’s for the love of the arts. And well kung mag ingay man ito it just means na art is now dead in the Philippines,” she argued.

“Ito na siguro ang pinaka-wholesome ko na photo shoot pero artistic, avant-garde,”

"Woman, your logic is so flawed it's not even funny.

I'm trying to understand the logic. How does a picture of a nun blowing up a condom give off the message of safe sex? Spare us from trash like this!" says a Facebook friend.

Welcome to the World of Anime

(c) Hiro Mashima

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Many people, mostly teenagers, are now into watching anime. I've watched a few anime series before and I keep on watching more. And after watching them, I realized that they are not so bad after all, and they were actually interesting and fun to watch.

As of now, I can claim that I am now under the spell of anime. And often times I wish that I could be on the same world with them. How I wish I could also live with them and do what they do in anime. If I would ever be given the opportunity to live in the world of anime, I would choose to be either Fairy Tail or Pokemon.


Every time I watch Fairy Tail, I became more and more interested in it. Hiro Mashima did a great job thinking of the plot and the characters. If we had a world similar to them, in which people make money by selling magical weapons and equipment, life could have been more easier. We would have spend our time learning different magic skills and join a guild whenever we want. Personally, I would join Fairy Tail guild because they are working together not as individuals, but as a group. And they are one festive guild, as described by one of the anime characters of Fairy Tail. It sure will be so much fun to join them.

Epson Launches 2013 League of Champions Tour

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Epson recently launched a roadshow to promote their champion products, but also to educate the public about a critical projector specification that the public needs to know if they want to get the most out of their projectors.

Digital imaging technology leader Epson will hold its “2013 Epson League of Champions Tour” at various SM Cyberzones nationwide from August to October this year.

The roadshow will showcase Epson’s champion products that provide genuine value to customers, such as Epson’s 3LCD projectors (No.1 in the world for 12 consecutive years) and the best-selling L-Series genuine ink tank system printers, which helped Epson attain market value leadership in inkjet printers last year. The exhibit also highlights Epson’s partnership with Manchester United, an English professional football club that has won 19 titles in the Premier League.

Globe Telecom Board Oks Cash Dividend Following Strong 1H Performance

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Globe Telecom said its board has approved a cash dividend of P33.50 per common share following encouraging financial performance results for the first half of the year.

The dividend is payable to shareholders on record as of August 22. Payment date has been set on September 13.

The brings total cash dividend payments this year to P67/share totaling P8.9 billion, representing 86% of the company’s 2012 core net income of P10.3 billion, a 2% rise from a year earlier. In February this year, the company’s board approved its first semi-annual cash dividend payment of about P4.4 billion.

The leading telecommunications company also said its board also approved a change in the frequency of the cash dividend distribution from semi-annual to quarterly beginning in the first quarter of 2014. The quarterly cash dividends will continue to be based on the policy of distributing 75% to 90% of prior year’s core net income.

Let the FUN begin ! The 24th Philippine Travel Mart on Sept. 6-8, 2013

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Let the FUN begin at the 24th Philippine Travel Mart!

The First Philippine Tourism Forum will be on September 6 to 8, 2013. 

The First Philippine Tourism Forum is the first major initiative for open discussion of ASEAN integration. Participants will get a well-rounded view of the issues, the opportunities and threats, as well as future directions.

The Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) is joined by prestigious business associations and tourism organizations as co-presentors for this event. 

Dragonball Z Batlle of Gods Special Screening at SM Mall of Asia Cinema

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Earth will be destroyed!

That was the premise on the new Dragonball Z movie that I had the privilege of seeing in an advance screening here in the Philippines. A friend invited us to join him on an exclusive showing at SM Mall of Asia Cinema 1 a few nights ago and it actually brought back childhood memories when I was really addicted to all and everything Dragonball.

Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods is the eighteenth Japanese animated feature film based on the Dragon Ball series. It is the first Dragon Ball movie in 17 years to have a theatrical release, the last being the tenth anniversary movie in 1996, which followed the first three Dragon Ball films and the thirteen Dragon Ball Z films.

It is about a deity name "Bills", a God of Destruction, who was in search for the Super Saiyan God that he a learned about from a dream after his several years of sleep. He easily gets pissed if he couldn't find find any. This diety had a bad temper and would just want to destroy a planet in a thought just like that if he doesn't get what he wants. Unfortunately, our favorite family of Saiyans led by Goku, along with their friends, is the target of the God of Destruction's wrath.

But was Earth destroyed in the event, I wouldn't dare give you spoilers so I will be quite.

Better watch it at your favorite cinemas. But here are some bit of spoilers. You've been warned:

TriboCo. Kultura Kamp's Stories : Hear. Listen. Understand. Share.

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Here is the winning comment as voted by the majority of Wazzup Pilipinas!

"Triboco.Kultura Camp aims to fight the idea of ethnocentrism which are truly visible in our present society. We tend to disfavor and treat the indigenous people as inferior without taking a closer look on their importance and bearing in the country's present state.

We should not set them aside and help them to adapt to the dynamic advancement. Triboco.Kultura Camp made it's way to express their gratitude towards the indigenous people in a positive approach.

Moreover, I do believe that indigenous groups are important. Let us hear the 3 E's: embrace, embark and empower ourselves together with the indigenous groups all throughout."

I had to delay this article so as to give way to the sharing of comments from the attendees. But it seems only a few were that keen to expressing themselves online via the comment section of a blog, or are they just too shy to let everyone know what they feel about the event.

I was actually surprised because I thought there will be swamps of messages coming in from the attendees all eager to contribute a piece of their mind - or were they just waiting for the last minutes of the deadline so they'll be sure to send in the winning comment. But I couldn't wait too long so I opened the contest to everyone instead including to students from a nearby school where I live.

Janet Lim Napoles and brother Reynald Limare : Manhunt Ongoing!

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The manhunt for Janet Lim Napoles and his brother Reynald “Jojo” Limare are now ongoing. But it seems every authority in the Philippines will have to work double-time and at full manpower if ever they need to find the two individuals linked to the pork barrel scam.

However, the warrant of arrest the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is holding is for the illegal detention of Benhur Luy, a second cousin of Napoles and her Personal Assistant . Luy is alleged to be the whistle-blower who provided information of the illegal accumulation of wealth by the Napoles family.

Napoles was accused of taking Luy, a probable witness in the alleged scam, against his will and detaining him inside her condominium unit in Taguig City.

Napoles' company was alleged to have been tapped in ghost projects of the government, pegged in one report as totalling to P10 billion worth of projects. These ghost projects were allegedly used by lawmakers for kickbacks.

UP JMA AD HOC : Seek Avidity on August 24 at the World Trade Center

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You are not alone in this pursuit.
Be part of the movement.
Lose yourself in the moment.
Experience ultimate avidity.

Every semester, college students and young professionals from all over the Metro gather to experience a night like no other. Together, they have broken records, united in their pursuit of pure bliss and uninhibited euphoria. Join the movement and experience the ultimate avidity from the one and only ADHOC by UP JMA.

The University of the Philippines Junior Marketing Association (UP JMA) and Smart, El Hombre Tequila, Unilever, AXE Apollo, Closeup, along with FOX and Star World, and our official VIP partner Bacardi together with Toska Vodka, L Acoustics, SM Youth, Guestlist.PH, El Hombre XO, PMX, Onesimus, 4th Wall, Folded & Hung Famous Salon, Creative Control Group and the Face shop bring you ADHOC: Seek Avidity at the World Trade Center on August 24.

Get ready to lose yourself to the beats of DJ Jon Ee , DJ Jason Dewey, DJ ChrisMyk ,and DJ Ace Ramos in this event hosted by the two time Hypeman of the Year, MC Paolo Avila. Get fueled by free-flowing drinks to be served all night long. Revel at the stunning laser lights show and a phenomenal midnight reveal.

Theatrum : The Theater Atmosphere Forum and Workshop

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Calling all theater enthusiasts! Here is your chance to learn and experience fundamental theater skills in one-day! 

THEATRUM brings you a forum and workshop in one to be conducted and facilitated by Mr. Epy Quizon, Ms. Vangie Labalan, Director Roeder Camanag, Mr. Hesus Lota, Mr. Ed Lacson Jr., Mr. Jerome Aytona and Mr. Shax Siasoco. 

It will be held on August 23 (Friday) from 8am to 5pm at the College of the Holy Spirit Manila! 

Reserve a slot now, for we only have limited participants to accommodate. Forum for all topics will be in the morning, while departmental workshops of your choice will be in the afternoon. 

Please contact Ina Reyes: 0906-895-86-30 for inquiries and confirmation. Please share! Thank you and God bless!

Ipanema Soul Search

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I was one of the bloggers who covered the Ipanema event and saw what kind of culture this brand Ipanema is driving through us. Brazilian culture is the one it’s showing, conveying freedom, soul searching, happiness, and reality of what life really needs.

To this day, Ipanema has continuously carved a name easily attributed to a style haven. Not just in Brazil but around the globe, Stylistas thrive in the concept of a pair of Ipanema’s not just a footwear but as a reflection of one’s individuality.

Last year, the footwear label invited the stylish elite and the fashion-savvy flock of style onlookers with a majestic celebration dubbed as an Urban Jungle. This year, Ipanema digs deep and asks the ever-important question, “What fills your soul?”

Still marked by Ipanema's distinct jovial, fun spirit—embodied in its brave array of footwear designs—the leading footwear brand ups the ante of its style sensibility by foraying into the soul of its demographic of women of passion. 

Manix Abrera Meet and Greet and Book Signing

 Wazzup Pilipinas!

Meet the man behind Kikomachine Komix, Manix Abrera! August 17, 2013 Saturday, 4pm to 6pm at SOLO (The Row) Glorietta 1.

The first 40 customers to purchase a Kikomachine item from the SOLO Pinoy Cartoonist Memorabilia Series at SOLO (THE ROW) GLORIETTA 1 any time on that day will get a FREE Kikomachine book #9 and will be signed my Manix Abrera himself!

COOL huh? See you there!!! Tweet SOLO at @MySoloOnline and don't forget the hashtag ‪#‎SoloXKikoMachine‬

Photo Summit Asia 2013 Reels Off in Cebu

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Photo Summit Asia 2013 reels off in Cebu City on September 5-8, 2013 with hundreds of photographers from the Philippines and all over Asia expected to attend the regional trade show and convention.

The photography trade show, which will be free and open to the public from September 5-8, will be at the Ayala Center Cebu Exhibit Area where major camera manufacturers and photography suppliers will display their latest products. Chairman for Photo Summit Asia 2013 in Cebu is Icky Salazar of Cebu Photo Works and Focal 7 Cebu Camera Club.

Salazar said the international photographers’ convention will be held at the Cebu Parklane International Hotel from September 6 to 8, 2013. A power-packed line-up of speakers are scheduled to share insights and their professional techniques with fellow photographers in the convention. Fee to the photographers’ convention is P3,000 per delegate. Early bird rate is P2,500 up to July 31, 2013.

- See more at: http://www.photoworldmanila.com/2013/07/18/photo-summit-asia-2013-in-cebu/#sthash.XwMD6dZ8.dpuf

DSLR Videography Workshop at Intramuros

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The FPPF is holding the 3rd DSLR Videography workshop with Dan Pamintuan on August 18 & 25, 2013 at the FPPF Art Chamber 1 in Fort Santiago, Intramuros, Manila. Dan Pamintuan is a professional videographer currently directing and producing CameraGEEK TV.

The videography workshop aims to equip the photographer with the technical know-how to produce professional quality videos and films using the modern video-capable digital single lens reflex (DSLR) camera. To attend, participant must have completed Basic Photography. Workshop fee is P3,500 for the two sessions.

Required Equipment:

1. Video-capable DSLR
2. 64-bit Laptop, Mac or Windows
3. Earphones

Food Photography One Day Workshop

Wazzup Pilipinas!

There will be a one day workshop on Food Photography to be conducted by Rod Banzon on August 18.

The Course Brief:

In Food Photography, professional food photographer Rod Banzon will teach students how to put together a lighting setup for shooting food as he discusses food photography lighting concepts and techniques. Students will also learn how to choose the best lens for a particular type of food photo, and how to compose and prop your food photography environment. Great for food bloggers, food magazine photographers and those who simply want to shoot their beautifully plated food before eating.

Workshops are conducted in Tagalog and English. Special arrangements may be made for those who require purely English instructions.

Schedule:

Dates – AUG 18 Course Fee: PHP 1,750

Bird Photography and 360-Degree Photography with Famous Photographers

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The FPPF is conducting the next Mini Lecture on September 1, 2013 with Bird Photography and 360 Degree Photography as topics. Famous wild bird photographer Ven Rojas will speak in the morning to share his techniques on Bird Photography, and professional photographer Fung Yu will talk about his remarkable style in 360-degree interactive and panoramic photography in the afternoon.

Ven Rojas is a realtor, developer, and contractor who has made his mark as a distinguished member of the Wild Bird Photographers of the Philippines (WBPP) where he also sits as one of its board directors. He bought his first DSLR in 2006 and enrolled in a photography workshop of the FPPF. He went on to become the founding president of the Miata Club Philippines, a sports car club, and later joined the WBPP, having found his passion in bird photography.

Fung Yu, who also took his basic and advanced photography classes at the FPPF, is the country’s foremost expert in 360-degree photography, a technique that provides an immersive experience in virtual reality where the viewer finds himself virtually in the scene. Fung currently services real estate developers, the tourism industry and the media.

Photography Workshops At FPPF : Learn Photography the FPPF Way

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For the last 20 years FPPF – Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation has been teaching Photography in the Philippines and is still the Number One provider of quality photography workshops. The photography workshops have produced thousands of graduates, some have turned their hobby into a profession while others have continue to live their passion for photography by taking better photos of their friends and family.

We invite you to attend any of our Photography Workshops this month of August.

Basic Photography Workshop

Course Brief - At the FPPF Basic Photography workshop you will learn how to use the DSLR and the latest camera technologies for serious photography – plus, there’s composition and elements of design, lighting theory and practice for portraiture and product shooting, digital imaging workflow for post processing, and travel photography.

Workshops are conducted in Tagalog and English. Special arrangements may be made for those who require purely English instructions.

CBTL Espresso Cream Open House : Free Free Free Free Coffee!

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Who doesn't love free? I bet you all want to be treated by a friend at your favorite coffee shops.

Well wait no further, bring along your friends and treat them for free coffee at CBTL!

See you all at Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf  (CBTL) branches as they bring back a Returning Favorite: The Espresso Cream Latte and Espresso Cream Ice Blended!

Visit them on August 18 from 10:00am to 11:30am to get first dibs on these customer favorites.

That's free, free, free Ice Blended or Iced Latte coffee!

Mark that day on your calendar and don't be late because they might run out of Espresso Cream!

Best Restaurants Charity Week Now on Its Fourh Year

 

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Join Charity Week on August 16-24 and make your meal count when you dine at any of the participating restaurants!

In its fourth year Philippines’ Best Restaurants, together with San Miguel Brewery and Visa, host the annual Charity Week to support families across the country help their children with Down syndrome reach their fullest potential.

The following restaurants will donate a substantial part of their sales during CHARITY WEEK to the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines.

The 4th Best Restaurants Charity Week is brought to you by Philippine Tatler in partnership with Visa and San Miguel Brewery, Inc.

Moonleaf Tea Shop Launches Hot Drinks for Tea Aficionados

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Moonleaf Tea Shop revives an authentic Taiwanese tradition with an innovative twist for the Filipino market.

A favourite spot among young urban professionals and students, the home-grown brand recently launched its Hot Drinks line. The latest addition to its wide-range of freshly- brewed tea offerings include classic favourites like Black Tea, Jasmine Green Tea, Oolong Tea, and Earl Grey Tea.

Refreshing and milk-infused variants include Wintermelon, Vanilla, and Caramel Milk Teas, among others. For customers who are looking for a stimulating burst of fruit flavours, Moonleaf's Lychee Jasmine, Passionfruit and Lychee Aloe Vera teas are top choices.

Baby Expo 2013 to Nurture Family Development and Child Care

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Explore Philippines biggest Family event of the year! Baby Expo 2013 is dedicated to nurture Family Development and Child Care for the entire family. It will be a delightful experience for the whole family!

This pre-holiday event whose mission is to empower responsible parenting, family and community development and nurturing child care, is the ultimate family affair filled with exciting amusement, fun activities, delectable food, irresistible selections, enriching forums & educational seminars.

The Baby Expo 2013 “Welcoming Life, Love and Care” celebrates the gift of life and family by fostering an intimate environment encouraging bonding and unity through community discussions, shopping opportunities and fun activities.

Explore the wonderful stages of family growth from maternity, newborns, toddlers and early childhood this DECEMBER 06 - 08, 2013 (Friday until Sunday, from 10am-8pm) at the SMX Convention Centre Manila, Hall 1 with over 200 exhibitors.

Social Innovation Camp Philippines Ideas Announced

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Social Innovation Camp brings together software developers and designers with people who understand a social problem to help build web and mobile solutions to social challenges. We think the web and related technologies hold huge potential to create change in many different ways: how people hold those in positions of power accountable; who they rely on to provide the services they need to live healthy, happy lives; or how they make a difference to something that affects them.

But for any of this to happen, we have to understand what people really need and start building the technology that can help – which is what Social Innovation Camp is all about. Through unusual, creative events we bring together talented software developers and designers with social innovators to prototype effective web-based solutions to real social problems.

The top 6 ideas that will be developed into web or mobile-based technology at Social Innovation Camp Philippines, which convenes in Manila on September 13th - 15th, were just recently announced.

Social Innovation Camp Philippines have spent the last 8 weeks scouring the country to find the most promising back-of-the-envelope ideas to solve a social problem. They had a huge 70 ideas submitted to Social Innovation Camp and their judges have chosen just 6 of the best to help build over one weekend.

Storage Products Association (SPA) Founded to Promote the Critical Role of Magnetic Storage Technologies

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I've heard that WD is establishing the Storage Products Association (SPA) with other hard drive companies to educate the consumers and professionals about the roles hard drive and solid state hybrid drive technologies play in today's digital age.

This is something interesting worth looking into to promote the merits and value of rotating magnetic storage technologies, as well as to make consumers and professionals aware of how critical hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state hybrid drives (SSHDs) are to their digital lives.

SPA members include HGST, Seagate, Toshiba and WD. The organization helps storage manufacturers and users understand and support current and future storage needs, including the key role of hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid state hybrid drives, in an effective storage mix for all consumer and business environments. SPA will provide education to its customers, partners, members and users of HDDs and SSHDs. SPA will also participate in industry and user events, and will publish materials about end users’ storage needs and effective usage of a mix of storage technologies.

Silent Sanctuary Monodramatic Album Launch

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Fans and friends of Silent Sanctuary celebrated the release of their newest album called "Monodramatic" last August 9, 2013 at the Trinoma Activity Center.

Silent Sanctuary spices up their signature  with a "classical music meets rock music" sound with the release of their new album. The group's previous studio albums: "Fuschiang Pagi-ibig" and "Mistaken For Granted", proved to be a success as it both spawned hits, which dominated radio, TV, on line and various music charts. For this album Silent Sanctuary delivers a more flavorful  spice without deviating much from the distinct classic sound which was loved by many.. Marami kami na ginamit na instrument sounds and elements na di namin ginagamit sa mga dating album “, explains vocalist Sarkie Sarangay.

"We always want to top our previous work. Yung habang tumatagal gumaganda yung mga kanta. Gusto namin laging nasusulit ng listeners yung album kaya di pwedeng basta-bastang output lang.” shared by bassist Jason Rondero.

For drummer Allen Calixto , the whole album was a way to be able to evolve and develop their sound rather than sticking with the same traditional formulas for song writing. "Lumawak pa yung isip ko sa music , kasama dun sa re learning yung drums.”.

The album also features an interesting collaboration with Ashley Gosiengfao of Midnight Meetings entitled "Meron Ng Iba”.

Nokia, Globe Labs Bring Nokia Asha Developers Night to RP

 

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Developers, students and IT professionals joined mobile communications giant Nokia and Globe Labs, a fast-growing developer community of Globe Telecom, in the Asha Developer Night held recently at the Nokia headquarters in Makati City.

The first Asha Developer Community Meetup highlighted the various business opportunities which developers can explore. They were given an introduction to the Nokia Asha user interface as well as the Nokia Asha SDK - a suite of tools that help with the development of Java apps on the Nokia Asha platform.

"The event was a great place to do networking, meet other developers, and ask questions about the Nokia platforms. We want to help local developers reach their full potentials, assist them in creating applications using Nokia Asha platforms as well as give them a chance to dig deeper into Asha's realm," said Michelle Santos, Developer Relations Manager of Globe Labs.

7th International Silent Film Festival

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The International Silent Film Festival will be taking place from 23 to 25 August 2013 at the Shang Cineplex. The participating countries during this year’s 7th International Silent Film Festival are Germany, Italy, Japan, Philippines, Spain and United States of America.

The selected silent films represent a variety of genres, ranging from comedy, horror to fake documentary and including the usual drama. This year’s wide-ranging film genres offer a varied experience for all viewers of all ages.

All Movies from 23 - 25 August are free entry.

As in the previous years the silent films will be accompanied by young Philippine bands, playing different types of music. The live music, whether pop or folk, will give the silent films an instrumental voice, creating an extraordinary atmosphere for the audience.

Car Maintenance : Solve Your Flat Tire Problems

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Flat tires are inevitable. Pioneer’s Jay Garcia shares a few tips on how to prevent running on a flat tire.

Preventing running on a flat tire:

• Check your tire pressure on a regular basis.

Not all flat tires are caused by punctures. Some are caused by defective air valve, or improper mounting of tires on the wheel rims. If the air pressure goes down even when the vehicle isn’t running, you need to have it checked.

• Follow the recommended air pressure.

Maintaining correct tire inflation prevents tires from weakening, exploding or forming bulges on the surface.

• Have your tires inspected during the vehicle’s Periodic Maintenance Check.

• Check your vehicle’s emergency equipment and learn how to use them.

Oriang By Cafe De Bonifacio: Revolutionary Filipino Dishes

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We Filipinos definitely love to eat. That's probably why there's a multitude of food and restaurant establishments mushrooming all over the Philippines. More and more foreign cuisines are penetrating our archipelago with many variety of food choices making our dining experience an awesome adventure. Almost every corner of the Metro has a resto or a mini food stall in place trying their luck to become a favorite hang-out of foodies.

But nothing beats our Filipino cuisine masters for making great efforts in trying their best to match the delicacies offered by our neighboring countries. Have you noticed that there has been a proliferation of chefs as well? Schools have also opened up a curriculum designed to explore the wonders of commercial cooking. Even celebrities have joined the band-wagon of becoming a culinary guru. It will be no surprise if I soon hear one of my neighbor becoming one as well.

Now there's this restaurant at Market Market that's now making a name for itself for being revolutionary in its offering of Filipino dishes. The Fried Hito above may look weird but trust me, it taste really good.

Oriang by Cafe De Bonifacio provides a fusion of modern plus classic Filipino dishes to further revolutionize Filipino cuisine into the next level. It's like what our mothers and grandparents used to cook for us during family weekend gatherings but with a special twist to elevate it a little bit further to the satisfaction of the ever-changing taste of both local and foreign patrons.

100 Miles Cafe Sponsors the 2nd Laguna Blogging Summit Core Team Meetup

Wazzup Pilipinas!

100 Miles Cafe aims to be an ideal venue for the gathering of active people over food and drinks. It boasts of having an informal local museum housing memorabilia of marathons, ultra-marathons and other endurance events like the Milo Marathon, 300 Mandirigma, Runner's World 21K Challenge, Men's Health Urbanathlon, World Vision Run, Century 5i50 Triathlon, and other sponsored runs.

Their Facebook page is full of updates about such events as well as topics about, food, health, fitness and great facts about runners that will surely be an interesting read for enthusiasts and like-minded individuals who dabble into fitness and sports.

They've designed the place to be the preferred choice of runners mainly because it's probably owned by runners themselves. That I still need to confirm, though. But based from their posts on Facebook, they sure know a lot about the sport and follow everything about running.

This may really be the perfect place for runners whether they'll be participating in a 21 kilometer run or a Triathlon, they'll definitely need to carbo-load to get the much-needed carbs and energy! Dining at their restaurant could also be their way of rewarding themselves for their accomplishment after a successful run.

Lorenzo the Musical on the Life of St. Lorenzo Ruiz

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Lorenzo, a musical, places the first Filipino saint alongside the OFW in exile.

Featuring music by Ryan Cayabyab, direction by Nonon Padilla and book and lyrics by Juan Ekis and Paul Dumol with the collaboration of Joem Antonio

This September, Christopher de Leon through Green Wings Entertainment Network, Inc. presents a new musical directed by Nonon Padilla: Lorenzo, which features the musical stylings of Ryan Cayabyab and libretto by award-winning writers Juan Ekis, Paul Dumol, and Joem Antonio.

The musical, which tells the story of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz’s escape to Japan and subsequent martyrdom there, is framed within a play that tells the modern-day story of Laurence, an OFW whose imprisonment in a Middle Eastern country and imminent execution prompt him to reflect upon the struggles of his historical countryman and cope with the inner struggles of his own predicament. Lorenz Martinez and OJ Mariano star in these roles respectively.

Left-Handers Day is on August 13

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Happy Left-handers Day!

My daughter is left-handed - only one in our family - but she excels in everything she does. Although she a little hard-headed and with a bit of a temper every now and then, her positive traits outweighs all those negative shortcomings.

What I like about her is her creativity in drawing or sketching anime characters. She maybe a leftie but she draws really well!

When she was really young, after discovering that she was a leftie, my wife and I even tried to correct the way she writes. We wanted to teach her how to write using the right hand thinking that it was very difficult for her to grow up using the left hand. We couldn't even teach her how to write during her preparatory years  because my wife and I were both right-handed. Even her teachers were all right-handed so they couldn't tutor her well.

But to our surprise, she grew up to be a very bright student. She was always on the pilot section of her schools (yeah, schools because we had to transfer from one home to the next due to my line of work back then that required us to change address almost every year), and she learned how to play the organ on her own (with a little guidance from those YouTube training videos) aside from her skills in drawing.

Both skills (to play the organ and draw) require her hands as an indispensable tool yet she managed to become good at it despite being a leftie.

New License Plates Designs from LTO Ready by September

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The much-awaited issuance of modern license plates by the Land Transportation Office (LTO), containing several advanced security features and a new alphanumeric design, will finally push through before the end of next month, according to the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC).

“The public can start enjoying the benefits of cutting-edge standardized license plates before the end of September. They need not wait much longer,” said DOTC Spokesperson Michael Arthur Sagcal.

The 5-year contracts for the supply of motor vehicle (MV) license plates, amounting to around P 1.989-Billion, and the supply of motorcycle (MC) license plates, amounting to around P 1.196-Billion, have been awarded to the joint venture of J. Knieriem B.V. Goes and Power Plates Development Concepts, Inc.

Sunshine Cruz Was Sexually Molested by Cesar Montano?

Wazzup Pilipinas!

There seems to be a trend of celebrities now coming out and exposing their controversial family disputes. Among the previous issues was that of actress Claudine Barretto who filed a case against her husband actor Raymart Santiago.


Now, Sunshine Cruz has finally broken her silence and decided to file a case of physical and emotional battery at the Quezon City Trial Court prosecutor’s office against husband actor Cesar Montano.

In the specifications of the charge of violation of Republic Act 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Children case cited on her affidavit, Sunshine Cruz alleged that Cesar Montano raped her last May 12, known to many as Mother's Day.

The affidavit clearly says that Cesar Montano "barged" into Sunshine's house, "violently attacked her, employed physical violence," and then raped her. It also adds that Cesar Montano "continued and still continues" to harass Sunshine Cruz by threatening her with physical harm.

Telecom Company Moves To A New Home in Bonifacio Global City

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Philippine telecommunication company Globe Telecom announces its move to its new corporate headquarters in Bonifacio Global City in late August.

“The move to The Globe Tower is momentous for us because it is an important component of the company’s transformation journey,” said Globe President and CEO Ernest Cu, in reference to the company’s efforts to further enrich customer experience through its network and IT modernization initiatives.

The Globe Tower will be the main hub of company transactions and will bring together close to 4,000 employees currently housed in several business offices situated in different areas in Metro Manila.

Since the groundbreaking in 2010, construction phase of the facility had been in full swing. The building has a floor plan of more than 70,000 square meters spread across 18 office floors, 9 parking levels, 2 floors of conference rooms, a store and corporate showroom and a dining level.

PAPT Cracks Down on Visayas Establishments for Suspected Software Piracy

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Pilipinas Anti-Piracy Team (PAPT) led by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Optical Media Board (OMB) strengthened its campaign against software piracy further south and found unlicensed software being used in three businesses (Prince Warehouse Club, Virginia Foods and Innoland Development Corporation); three retail malls in Cebu, namely 138 Mall, Elizabeth Mall and Collonade Mall, were also visited by the PAPT to stamp out sale of pirated software discs.

In May 2013, PAPT members IPOPHIL and OMB conducted inspections in different businesses in South Metro Area (Laguna and Batangas) and now extended their visits to the Visayas region.

Upon inspection, three of the commercial businesses, namely Prince Warehouse Club, Virginia Foods and Innoland Development Corporation were found to be in possession of unlicensed software. One company named Ricor Mills, refused the inspection was issued an order from OMB for further investigations.

DOTC, LRTA Assure Safety of LRT-1 Passengers

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) and the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) are assuring the public of the continuing safety of the LRT-1 System, as the DOTC seeks to solve an impasse in the implementation of the P 269-Million LRT-1 Rehabilitation (Rail Replacement) Project which was awarded in November of last year.

The DOTC will meet tomorrow (13 August 2013) with the winning contractor for the Project, OMMC-KORAIL-Erin Marty-Jorgman Joint Venture, to ensure that the latter fulfills its contractual obligations to government.

According to the transport agency, the Joint Venture was supposed to begin actual replacement works by May 2013. Instead, the DOTC received a letter from the Joint Venture, claiming that it would not be able to meet the project schedule since it could not obtain sufficient financing from lenders.

After an exchange of correspondences, the DOTC wrote the Joint Venture on 9 July 2013 to clarify that there was no impediment on the part of government preventing the Joint Venture from complying with the contract. The letter also stressed that the Joint Venture’s failure to satisfy its obligations are grounds for liquidated damages and blacklisting, in accordance with the Uniform Guidelines for Blacklisting.

67th Mid-Year Orchid and Garden Show

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Orchids never fail to amaze me. I would always catch another glance whenever I see orchids used as ornaments or decorations at various occasions. They simply are marvelous to look at.

It has been said that "orchids have long been a symbol of love and beauty. They are grown by enthusiasts for their sheer elegance and fascination. They are also favored as either a corsage worn on the dress, or as a wristband at many proms and special events.

On many occasions, from weddings to conferences, sprays of orchids grace the tables as decoration. With over 750 genera of orchids, over 30,000 hybrids and more introduced every year, there is a huge variety of orchids to choose from for the orchid enthusiast. "

There will be an event highlighting the beauty of orchids called the 67th Mid-Year orchid and Garden show to be held at the Quezon Memorial Circle -Hardin ng mga Bulaklak . Special Opening will be held on August 29, 2013 Thursday for members, invited guest , media and vips . The event will be officially opened to the public starting August 30 to September 9, 2013 .

Premier Thought Leaders : The Next Best Selling Authors

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Premier Thought Leaders : The Next Best Selling Authors is a whole day learning event featuring the “Premier Thought Leaders”, Mr. Jayson Lo, Mr. Dennis Sy, Mr. Randell Tiongson, Mr. Marvin Germo, Mr. Yeng Remulla and Mr. Paulo Tibig. Experts each in their own field of Finance, Entrepreneurship, People Management, and Personal Development - this day is set forth to be experiential, engaging and educational.

This symposium, aims to develop a network of learning for our Filipino citizens, provide inspiration to countless of individuals, and create a change that is inclined towards successful relationships, career paths, and business outcomes.

In addition, the speakers themselves with have their books displayed, and offered on huge discounts. Plus, they will be there to sign your book, interact with you and have your photos taken with them.

Who should attend?

Business Owners, Entrepreneurs, Sales and Marketing People, Human Resource Individuals, Production Groups, Finance Person and Groups, Operation Heads, Middle Management, Rank & File, Students and the like, and all who are interested to excel in their own field.


Victory Center, 4th Level, Virra Mall Bldg., Greenhills Shopping Center,
Greenhills, San Juan City
August 24, 2013 (Saturday), 9:00am to 6:00pm

Andres Bonifacio : Buhay at Pakikibaka

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Si Andrés Bonifacio ay ang namuno sa rebolusyon ng Pilipinas laban sa Espanya, ang unang rebolusyon sa Asya na lumaban sa pananakop ng mga bansang imperyalista sa Europa.

Siya ay nagsimulang mag-aral sa paaralan ni Don Guillermo Osmeña sa Meisic sa Binondo, Maynila subalit siya'y maagang nahinto sa pag-aaral. Bagamat siya'y nahinto sa pag-aaral, may angkin siyang talino at marunong siyang bumasa at sumulat, at dalubhasa na rin sa pagsasalita sa wikang Kastila.
Naulila sa magulang nang maaaga sa edad na 14. Naging tindero siya ng ratan at pamaypay na gawa sa papel de hapon. Nagtrabaho din siya bilang clerk, sales agent at bodegista (warehouseman). Nahilig siyang basahin ang mga nobela ni Jose Rizal at nang itinatag ang La Liga Filipina, sumapi siya kasama ni Apolinario Mabini.

Noong 1892, matapos dakpin at ipatapon si Dr. Jose Rizal sa Dapitan, itinatag ni Bonifacio ang Katipunan o kilala rin bilang "Kataastasan,Kagalang-galangang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan" (KKK), isang lihim na kapisanang mapanghimagsik, na di naglaon ay naging sentro ng hukbong Pilipinong mapanghimagsik.

Random Road Trip # 2

Wazzup Pilipinas!
Have you tried going on a road trip on some undetermined place with people you hardly know anything about? You'll get to share a random ride with them, eat anything with them, and even swim with them at a beach somewhere. You'll be meeting these people for the first time and you'll probably be wondering if it will be a fun or boring trip. Does it sound like a daring adventure? 


Tara Let's Go! Asia is organizing another RANDOM ROAD TRIP to some RANDOM place with RANDOM people doing some RANDOM adventure riding a RANDOM travel transport.

You are all invited to come and do something RANDOM in your life.

Here are a few details you may want to know:

- There are 20 Seats available on the transport.
- Random Trip fee is Php 850.00
- Road Trip is just a ONE DAY activity.

What to expect?

We are going with people we do not know.
- We DO NOT have an exact plan.
- Be OPEN MINDED about new things.
- Kindly bring some extra cash for entrance fees, drinks or some snacks.

What happens during a Random Road Trip? All sorts of craziness and awesome adventures! And it's guaranteed to be different every time!

Read about our first one here: http://www.taraletsgo.asia/tag/random-road-trip/
So, if you are up for some fun, JOIN US!

Mommy Mundo Goes on Clearance Clearout Sale

Wazzup Pilipinas!

It’s that time of the year again. To shop with less guilt, get more bang for your buck, enjoy perks and price-offs from some of your favorite mom brands and mompreneur shops. The MOMMY MUNDO CLEARANCE CLEAROUT SALE, held at Fun Ranch in Pasig is now on its 3rd year. 

This year’s Clearance Clearout Sale is happening on August 16-18, 2013, 10am to 8pm and supported by Fun Ranch, Imagine Nation Photography, Lactacyd Baby Bath, Digiprint, Crystal Clear and Partezeit, Official credit card partner is BPI Credit Cards. 
 
Your fave mom and baby products and mompreneur brands on mark down prices! Featuring offseason, samples, and new items as well.

More than 30 participating brands at this year's MOMMY MUNDO CLEARANCE CLEAROUT SALE. Up to 75% off in discounts!
Every P1,000 purchase using BPI Credit Cards will get a free gift from Mommy Mundo:)
Don’t miss this big pre-holiday sale organized just for you!:)

Poetry of Stars : An Overview of Astrology in the Philippines

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Lopez Museum and Library will be exhibiting a new set of masterpieces and works of art starting August 15.  It will feature the works of Serafin Lanot to commemorate his birth centennial and to mark the role of astrology in Philippine culture and history. 

The exhibit will feature Lanot’s personal astrology and publishing paraphernalia, such as charts and even an astrological computer, as well as a letter written to him by former President Corazon Cojuangco Aquino after he had predicted her ascendancy to the presidency in 1986.

The works of other Filipino astrologers will also be in display and a series of talks about related topics in Astrology will also be held. The talks will be led by writer-astrologer Resti Santiago, founder of Astrology Friends Philippines.

Serafin Lanot is a Filipino poet, journalist, publisher and astrologer. He is a leading figure in the introduction of astrology in the Philippines in the 1980s. He was the only Filipino astrologer invited to the International Conference of the American Federation of Astrologers and was a member of the AFA convention faculty in the ’80s.

Also part of the exhibit are the works of Jose Joya and Vicente Manansala.
 

Boxed Lunch You Say? Have A Bento!

otakumode.com

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Are you tired of your usual baon*? The never-ending combination of the left-over from last night’s viand and rice? Or the easy as one-two-three deep fried chicken nuggets, hotdog, ham, tocino*, longganisa* or bacon plus the rice? Never forget the rice. We Filipinos won’t even think of leaving the rice out in our meals.

Baon* - Boxed lunches in the Philippines , Tocino* - Cured meat product popular in former Spanish colonial possessions  , Longganisa* - A sausage similar to a chorizo.

 

mymealbox.com

Speaking of rice, Nihonjins* always include rice in their meals too. You see, we Filipino’s are not the only one fond of eating rice on our meals. Japanese people are our rice buddies too. And like us, they also feel incomplete if rice is not included in their meals. So they have rice for asagohan*, hirugohan*, and also for bangohan*. Since we have stated that Japanese people eats rice during hirugohan, Japanese students gets to eat rice too during their breaks, encased in their lunch boxes, filled with scrumptious and organized food in which we call Bento.

Nihonjins* - Japanese people , Asagohan* - Breakfast , Hirugohan* - Lunch , Bangohan*- Dinner

Evercool Radiators : A Top Choice By Global Car Makers

Wazzup Pilipinas!

It was in 1993 when Roberts Automotive & Industrial Parts Manufacturing Corporation (Roberts AIPMC) got into the automotive metal industry, and it was the same year when they launched their own brand of radiators called Evercool.

Since then, the company and its Evercool radiator brand established itself firmly by supplying major segments of the market, particularly the original equipment manufacturers (OEM) assemblers, to make it a top choice among both domestic and overseas car makers.

Evercool Radiators has built and maintained credibility and respect from the market because of its strict adherence to rigid quality control standards. Its products undergo several leak tests to ensure that they are all 100% leak-free, and also undergo other tests like vibrations tests, high loads of pressure tests, and long distance road tests to make sure that the products are of the highest quality. 

Toyota : Waku-Doki at the World Trade Center

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) is currently holding the biggest Exclusive Motor Show at the World Trade Center, Pasay City. Experience fun and excitement (“Waku-Doki”) until August 18 as you witness the biggest showcase of Toyota vehicles.

The grand event highlights vehicles from the past and the future  as you immerse yourself in the world of Toyota. The World of Toyota is a rare opportunity for you to experience on a whole new level! It was really designed and built to be at par with global Motor Shows.

Car enthusiasts are also in for a treat during the week-long event, the full product line-up of Toyota will be displayed with a sneak preview of upcoming models. TMP also showcases over 30 classic cars that have shaped the local automotive industry for more than four decades.

Get a glimpse of the future with the display of its concept car, the Toyota FCV-R and Toyota’s luxury line Lexus will also be under the spot light at the motor show.