2014-02-09 ~ Wazzup Pilipinas News and Events

Saturday, February 15, 2014

5th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition 2014

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The PyroMusical annual event will put on a never-before-seen spectacle of lights and colors where the night sky and sea meet as staged by the world’s leading pyrotechnic experts.This competition will not only paint the Manila sky with brilliant bursts of vivid color, but will also be the venue to showcase the emerging artistry and evolving sophistication of Filipino fireworks technology.

The Philippine International Pyromusical Competition will be imbued with the awesome fanfare and delightful displays of the world’s leading pyrotechnic events, but done with that distinct Filipino flourish that will surely bring together eager audiences from all over the region.

The 5th Philippine International PyroMusical Competition 2014 will be at the SM Mall of Asia starting February 15, 2014. Eleven (11) countries from around the world will showcase their never-before-seen pyrotechnics extravaganzas.

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In order to ensure efficient and effective importation of motor vehicles, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has revised all Rules and Regulations on the Accreditation and Stock Reporting of Manufacturers, Assemblers, Importers, Rebuilders, Dealers and Other Entities (MAIRDOEs) authorized to import motor vehicles and/or its components.

This is under Administrative Order No. AVT-2014-23, which was published last January 24 and took effect on 9 February 2014.

“This is part of our reform program at the LTO to improve our services, streamline processes, and curb corrupt or illicit practices. This will benefit stakeholders in the automotive industry, which we hope will translate into faster and better services to the general public,” said LTO Assistant Secretary Alfonso Tan, Jr.

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The Euro-Filipino Understanding and Relations Organization (UP EURO) is a duly recognized university-wide student organization based in the Department of European Languages of the College of Arts and Letters in the University of the Philippines, Diliman.

It caters to the interests of those who envision a mutually beneficial common future between the Philippines and Europe, being the first student organization in UP Diliman to promote socio-cultural exchanges and diplomatic relations between the two regions. Through the years, it has served as a venue for the pursuit of academic discussion of ideas in contemporary European and Filipino affairs.

UP EURO brings the ASEAN-EU connection to the academic community. On February 22, UP EURO will hold the annual Philippine Summit on European Studies entitled, ASEAN Integrated Community 2015: Probing ASEAN-EU Dynamics. The event will delve into the implications of the integration on the sectors of politics, economics, and education in the Philippines vis-à-vis its being an ASEAN member and its relationship with the European Union.

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Local tour operators, airlines, cruise lines, hotels and resort operators, and travel agencies rolled out their fantastic discount programs for travel destinations here and abroad at the 21st Travel Tour Expo 2014 ongoing at the SMX Convention Center Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City until February 16, 2014 from 10 am until 9 pm. Entrance fee is only P 50 for visitors (including students and children) and P 20 for senior citizens.

A total of 53 travel agencies and tour operators, 27 airlines, 5 cruise lines, 96 hotels and resorts, 14 embassies and national travel organizations and 6 theme parks exhibited their discounted and special promo packages for their products and services in an area of over 11,000 square meters.

With the theme, "Love Life Love Travel", the event was jam-packed with long queues of customers and travel fanatics all waiting for their turn to purchase great travel packages to their dream destinations. Just like in the previous years it was a definite blockbuster!

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Komikon aims to continue publishing an independent comic book anthology annually to encourage more budding creators out there to continue honing their skills and to showcase the broad offering of Filipino comics. This is why they created Sulyap that was launched last November 13, 2010 at the 6th Annual Filipino Komiks Convention at the Starmall Trade Hall, EDSA cor Shaw Blvd, Mandaluyong City.

Sulyap is a collection of short Filipino independent komiks works, featuring the works of 8 young and talented comics writers, some of whom started out by joining the Komikon contests and Komikon Indie Comics Tiange. The featured stories and their creators are:

Ambition by Ian Olympia, Baboy 1&2 by Mel Casipit, Goodbye Rubbit by RH Quilantang, Kalayaan by Gio Paredes, Lipad by Rommel Estanislao, Maktan 1521 by Tepai Pascual, Taal Monster vs Evil Space Paru-paro by Macoy, and Windmills: Bearkdowns by Josel Nicolas

Sulyap was designed and compiled by Jon Zamar, with a foreword by Gerry Alanguilan and cover art by Melvin “Taga-ilog” Calingo. As a bonus, Taga-ilog’s Primer on Making Your Own Comic Book was also included.

Now, the people responsible for this ultimate project are introducing the 2nd batch of comic artists to be part of Sulyap 2. Get to know more about them here:

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One faith... one love... one aim. Steps that will make other lives change. Strengthened by one faith, bounded by unity, brethren from all parts of the world. Our brethren all gather, willing and ready to help those affected by the Typhoon Haiyan. "We walk so they can stand".

The Iglesia Ni Cristo is having a fund raising "Worldwide Walk" today, February 15,2014, for the victims of Yolanda typhoon, event located from CCP Complex towards Roxas Boulevard.

It's amazing how the brethren have been united again as one. Brethren from over 13 Ecclesiastical districts here in and around Metro Manila, Philippines joined together for the Worldwide Walk for those affected by typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda).Despite the early departure in their own locale congregations, brethren are very thrilled by the thought that they will be able to help the victims of the typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) by participating in the Worldwide Walk that is being held not only in Manila, Philippines but all over the world. This is definitely a lot of fun!

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The 700 Club Asia marks the season of love with its first series of special live episodes this year, dubbed “Luv 2 Give” on February 17-21, at 11:00 p.m. over GMA News TV.

“Luv 2 Give” marries the passion of love and selfless giving as it encourages more people to help our kababayans in need.

The TV special hopes to raise more funds to be able to help more people through the CBN Asia Family of Ministries (CBN Asia Media that produces The 700 Club Asia, the top-rating Superbook and Tanikala; the organization’s humanitarian arm Operation Blessing; Asian Center for Mission and The Prayer Center).

“We want more people to experience the joy of pure love that comes with selfless giving. We just need to look around to see that there are thousands of people who need our help. Luv 2 Give is a wonderful platform where we could all join together in expressing love for others this love month by being cheerful givers,” says Peter Kairuz, President and Chief Executive Officer of CBN Asia and Operation Blessing and one of the hosts of The 700 Club Asia.

Artistang Artlets of UST Presents #Hugot

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Were you able to watch "A.S.L. Pls?", "Sa North Diversion Road", "Isang Dakilang Mamamayan ng Republika", and "Dyip". This March, Artistang Artlets brings you again, not just one, but three incredible productions!

Artistang Artlets, the official theatre guild of the Faculty of Arts and Letters of the University of Santo Tomas, on its 33rd season is proud to bring you its 2nd Minor Production this coming March.

"#HUGOT" a Trilogy of plays including: “Kinaumagahan” written by Wennielyn Fajilan and Rachelle Rodriguez, “COCOL” written by Therese Renee Janine Zialciata and “Chimes” written by Coleen Ivy Cordero and Danielle Joyce Factora, to be directed by Danielle Joyce Factora and to be produced by Marcos Gaston Stig Latorre to be staged this March 3, 4 and 5, 2014. Time slots will be as follows: 1pm, 3pm, 5pm and 7pm at the Education Auditorium, Albertus Magnus Building, UST.

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It's the season of the hearts again. A time when lovers become extra close and an opportunity to treat each other extra nice. It's also an excuse to ask for a kiss, a hug or something more intimate. Statistics shows that aside from the ever increasing sales of roses and chocolates, it's also that time of the year when more and more people are getting laid.

Valentine's Day is really magical. I've read a status post of a Facebook friend relating the teleserye-like love story of his parents and learned that he was actually conceived on Valentine's Day (February 14), and eventually born nine months later (November 13). Only a day short of an exact nine months!

From his story, I guess he sort of revealed his age when he told us the year, but what really got my attention was the totally amazing MMK-type love story of his parents. His father was 40, while his mother was 22 when the two met. But the 18 year gap was overcome which brought into this world three more children - plus two grandchildren.

This is the story of Boy and Bebeth.

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Philippines...are you ready?Have you already thought of how to get to the venue already?

No more excuses! There will be free Rides to the 7107 International Music Festival on February 22 and 23. Sign up at the selected Guess stores indicated at the image below as early as February 15.

Realizing the magnitude of the two-day event and the logistical concerns it entails, organizers have also posted various modes of transportation options.

For fans coming from Manila, fashion brand Guess will be providing buses that will leave from its six Guess stores in Glorietta 2, SM Megamall, Ermita, Mall of Asia, Trinoma and Alabang Town Center. Those wishing to avail of this transportation mode must register at any of the Guess stores starting February 15.

Those who have already booked accommodations, shuttle service to and from area hotels will be provided during the festival weekend. Shuttle partners and pick-up points will be listed online as they are confirmed. Those who have their own vehicles must purchase the P300 parking fee on Flavorus but should keep in mind that overnight parking is not allowed.

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A retrospective exhibit that will showcase three decades of Tony Velasquez, the Father of Philippine comics' original works from the 1930's to the 1950's20, is scheduled on February 15 up to 28 at Cevio Art Haus in Pasig City. This exhibit pays tribute to the man who pioneered cartoons and comic illustrations in the Philippines. Opening ceremonies will be held on February 15 at 7 pm.

Velasquez was a Filipino illustrator and cartoonist widely recognized and regarded as the Father of Tagalog comics and as the pioneer and founding father of the Philippine comics industry. During his career as a comic artist, Velasquez created more than 300 cartoon characters, some of whom became household names in Filipino homes, such as Kenkoy, Tsikiting Gubat, Talakitok, Talimusak, and Ponyang Halobaybay. The show will feature Kenkoy, Ponyang Halobaybay, and other personal memorabilia of the comic icon.

Velasquez created the very first serialized Filipino cartoon strip, Mga Kabalbalan ni Kenkoy (‘Kenkoy’s Antics’) in 1928. Arguably the most influential comic strip in the Philippines, Mga Kabalbalan ni Kenkoy, opened the floodgates that started the tradition of cartoon strips in the Philippines.

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It is all systems go for the Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit at the Multipurpose Hall of Meralco, Pasig City on February 27-28, 2014. The summit was originally scheduled on November 28-29, 2013 but was reset due to the devastation then brought by Typhoon Yolanda in the Visayas that necessitated the urgent attention of government agencies on relief operations.

Rommel Juan, president of the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (eVAP), one of the organizers, said that the EV Summit has now become more relevant in the light of the recent effects of Typhoon Yolanda. “Now, people are more conscious of the negative effects that can be brought upon by our neglect in preserving the environment thus resulting in global warming and climate change. Thus this year, even major auto shows abroad have prominently featured electric vehicles and other forms of alternative fuel vehicles”, he adds.

eVAP now boasts of 56 active members, 27 of whom are corporate members. It is part of the lead organizing group Electric Vehicle Alliance consisting of Meralco and various like-minded NGOs such as Partnership for Clean Air (PCA), Clean Air initiative Asia and the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC).

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The UPLB Com Arts Society is a duly recognized academic and official organization for Communication Arts majors in the University of the Philippines Los Baños. It aims to cultivate human perception towards the arts and the humanities and to provide outlets for the artistic talents of the members especially in the three areas of specialization of the Communication Arts program which are: Writing, Speech Communication and Theatre Arts.

The organization will soon be staging [Re]Play: A Haunting of Nostalgic Nightmares this March 5 to 6, 4PM and 7PM at the CAS Annex 1 building, NCAS Auditorium, University of the Philippines Los Baños. It will be a series of two one-act plays about the remains of the past as they haunt the present lives of the characters.

[Re]Play: A Haunting of Nostalgic Nightmares will be staging “Noche Buena” written by Brylle James Galang and directed by Nashla Camille Locsin, and “Irene” written by Mark Ian Billante and directed by Micah Sementilla. Members of The UPLB Com Arts Society star in both one act plays, with guest performances by Trevor Lim, Jose Gabriel Gloria, Patricia Marie Catriz, John Matthew Prieto, and Jarrod Papasin.

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Almost everyone has a sweet tooth and can't resist taking a bite of anything sugary sumptuous. We love to have them as desserts after every meal to make our dining experience end with a memorable treat. Sweet treats makes every meal complete and also serves as our reward for a great day's work, a job well done, a fulfillment to our longings, to conclude that particular chapter in our lives, as we go on to the next.

Sweet treats are among the first on the list of gifts we want to give to our loved ones, especially during special occasions when we want to make an outstanding impression. If we want to get noticed and be remembered, it's always advisable to include lip-smacking yummy delicacies tucked in somewhere among the bouquet of roses to make it really extra special.

I can still recall how I would always insist to put branded chocolates to highlight my gifts not only during Valentine's Day but in almost every celebration. At a distance, they are not as noticeable as the huge long-stemmed roses, but it never fails to put a smile in everyone's faces the moment they realize there's a sweet treat within the dozen of flowers.

Let me share with you an article below about how Max's Restaurant is making Valentine's Day more extraordinary with their special S'mores Fudge Bar that comes free for every P1,500 food purchase from February 14 to 16 only.

4Sharing Sumptuous Seafood Spread from Max's Restaurant

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We will be visiting Max's Restaurant this weekend to try out their newest 4Sharing Meal choices, but before that let me share with you an article introducing the two dishes of ninong Max that is now a perfect match with everyone's all-time favorite Max's fried chicken.

The nearest branch from our place is the one at Tiendesitas. It's a two-storey branch with an option to dine outside near the area where stalls sell arts and crafts. We've already tried dining there during a certain lunch time and we're satisfied with the prompt service, acceptable ambiance, and of course, excellent food.

We arrived at the branch all full of customers so we had to wait in queue for our turn to dine when a table becomes available. The first tables to become vacant where the ones located outside with no air-conditioning. The service crew asked us if the open air tables were alright for us. Since we were all hungry, my wife agreed. However, the kids started complaining about the intolerable heat only after a few minutes of stay outside. We've just ordered and our food has not arrived yet so we quickly requested to transfer inside.

I'll be sure to create another blog post to show you the actual meals and tell you the story of our next dining experience after our visit at the branch. For the meantime, enjoy reading the article below:

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I'm not a girl but your friendly neighborhood pambansang blogger loves the color pink...BTW, somebody told me they're changing Anne Curtis-Smith's Dyesebel tail or "buntot" from orange to pink. Seriously?

At first we thought her tail would be "blue" because of some "pictorials" that came out with her wearing a blue gown (may halong GSM Blue) amidst an under the sea background, but a video teaser release shows Anne in an orange-colored mermaid tail...now there's this photo that shows her wearing a pink tail...Ano na nga ba talaga ang magiging kulay ng buntot ni Anne?

Unlike the previous orange-tailed mermaids of Philippine showbiz (Alice Dixson, Charlene Gonzales, Ara Mina, Marian Rivera) and the original silvery scales like that of a "bangus" (milkfish) from yesteryears Edna Luna, Alma Moreno and Vilma Santos), Anne Curtis' Dyesebel opted to be daringly fresh than "bilasa".

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Football star David Beckham brought cheers to the typhoon Yolanda devastated residents of Tacloban City at the province of Leyte today, February 13, 2014, after he visited the refugees as a United Nations International Emergency Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Ambassador.

A million thanks from the bottom of our hearts. We are so blessed to have people like David Beckham and his wife Victoria who extend help and support to the people in need, not only in the Philippines, but worldwide. God bless them even more.

Thank you also to UNICEF for bringing here David Beckham to sympathize with the people of the Philippines especially with the survivors of the typhoon with an international named of Haiyan.

Wazzup Pilipinas!Martin Nievera serenades the crowd with his timeless love classics supported by champions from reality talent competitions The Voice of the Philippines and X-Factor Philippines two days before Valentine's Day with a mini-concert dubbed as "A Garden Filled with Love" held at the Ayala Triangle Gardens located in Makati City.

X-Factor Philippines winners KZ Tandingan and Allen Sta. Maria with The Voice of the Philippines runners up Klarisse De Guzman and Morissette Amon helped the Concert King set the mood for love this season of the hearts at a romantic evening filled with nostalgic hit songs made popular by the one and only Martin Nievera.
I will never grow old and tired of Martin Nievera and his serenade-like songs... I used to give his original albums to the woman I was courting because his songs were truly romantic and his voice...oh so dreamy!!! That's probably one of the best reasons why I got my much-awaited "YES!", had my dream wedding, blessed with wonderful kids, and still all strongly in love with each other even after several years already.

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The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) is ready to defend public interest and argue its case on the need to add forty-eight (48) new Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs) to the Metro Rail Transit III (MRT-3) system at 2:00pm today, before the Regional Trial Court of Makati.

Acting on a petition filed by Metro Rail Transit Holdings II, Inc., the court issued a 20-day Temporary Order of Protection on 30 January 2014, preventing the transport agency from going ahead with the Project.

While having no contractual relationship, the DOTC says that MRT Holdings II should be held accountable for Metro Rail Transit Corporation’s (MRTC) failure to add much-needed train coaches to the rail line, after it claimed to own 100% of MRTC.

“Passenger safety and convenience demand that the project proceed immediately. MRTC has received over P 35.2 Billion in equity rental payments since 2000. Yet it has added zero LRVs, knowing full well that MRT-3 has been operating beyond capacity for years. MRT Holdings II must answer the obvious question: why hasn’t it added LRVs to MRT-3 all this time?” said DOTC Spokesperson Michael Arthur Sagcal.

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The Philippines welcomed a total of 4,681,307 foreign visitors in 2013, surpassing the 4,272,811 arrivals recorded in 2012 by 9.56%. This performance marked a new milestone for the tourism industry as visitor arrivals demonstrated sustained growth despite the challenges of the previous year.

The highest growth rates during the year were recorded in February (15.8%), June (14.0%), and August (13.0%). Visitor count reached an all time high of more than 400,000 during the months of January, February, March, July, and December.

“Our key source markets generally performed well during the month of December, proof that international confidence has been regained. The Philippines is profoundly grateful for the outpouring of support, aid, and goodwill from all over the world. They were all instrumental in our road to recovery," Tourism Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez Jr. said.

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“Mga Ama, Mga Anak,” is a poignant drama in three acts revolving around former town illustrado and Caritela king Zacarias Monzon, his fall from power and wealth, and his gnawing conflicts with his son and his family, amid dementia and unresolved issues. Cruelty, hedonism, disloyalty, and suffering marred his past.

Now, so close to death, Carias still has the reins over his resentful son, his confused grandson, and a benevolent martyr of a mistress, until they decide it was time to cut loose and be responsible for what they are and what they will be.

Featuring stage luminaries Spanky Manikan (Carias Monzon), Robert Arevalo (Carias Monzon), television actress and host Jacquilou Blanco (Sofia Monzon), noted young actress Cris Villongco (Bessie), and multi-awarded singer-actress Celeste Legaspi.

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The Senate Defenders grabbed the 1st victory as they won 83-72 in a 9-point deficit over the House of Representatives Solons. Kenneth Duremdes from the Defenders emerged as the dominating player that earned him the title "Best Player of the Game" while Neil Tupas was the top scorer from the opposing team.

The UNTV Cup is a one of a kind basketball league, composed of the different departments of the Philippine government namely the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Department of Justice, Congress, Senate, Judiciary, Philhealth, Metro Manila Development Authority, Malacanang, and other LGUs. Each team has their own beneficiary who will take the 1 Million Pesos Grand Prize for the team who will win the championship, and 500,000 Pesos for the 1st Runner-Up.

Now on its second season, the games are expected to be a lot more grueling yet more fun and exciting to watch as we witness different government agencies battle it out against each other competing in the Philippines' favorite sport: basketball.

Khoa Bui Presents The Ultimate Health and Wellness Summit

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Many people have started setting their new year resolutions to lose weight and look their best for 2014. Year after year, many people set these goals but fail to lose weight and achieve their goals for the rest of the year. Then the cycle continues.

Khoa Bui and PMCM Events Management have teamed up and created a never before seen event that finally shows you how to lose weight, improve your image, lose belly fat, get toned, healthy cooking, juicing and more.

Expert speakers who’ve walked their talk and experienced their own results will show you their secrets to having better health and wellness in your life.

This event will be happening on February 22, 2014 from 9am to 5pm and to be held at the Paragon Plaza Building along EDSA in Mandaluyong.

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There is probably no other group in the plant kingdom as intriguing and mesmerizing as that of the Orchid Family (Orchidaceae) where common names used to describe them seem to have been pulled out from some fairytale or some horror movie that we have watched in our youth. Second only to the Sunflower Family (Asteraceae), the Orchid Family is composed of over 20,000 orchid species with hundreds of new hybrids being developed yearly to the delight of orchid growers worldwide.

Common names used to describe the different forms, colors and scents of this interesting plant group have long been used and have added amusement to the orchid hobby. They are normally used for easy recall and to simplify the taxonomic names of the plant which are usually tongue twisters.

The Philippine Orchid Society will be staging its 68th Annual Orchid and Garden Show on February 28 to March 10, 2014 at the Flower Garden Area of the Quezon Memorial Circle, Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City. This year’s theme will be Orchids and Greens: Towards Achieving Ecological Balance’ and will focus on promoting environmental awareness and conservation. Orchid displays will be set up and an orchid competition will be held to determine the best orchid in show. A plant Bazaar will be offering orchids and ornamentals at farm gate prices and free daily lectures will be held daily at 3pm for the visiting public.

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The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines-Episcopal Commission on Family and Life made a request to the Ad Standard Council (ASC) not to allow the airing of condom ads on television. Fr. Melvin Castro, the executive secretary of the commission, said these commercials are even aired during prime time hours "and one of them even featured a popular celebrity". Castro told Radio Veritas the commercials contribute to the “corruption of values and minds of the youth.”- ABS-CBN News

Wow! Hilarious and infuriating at the same time! They still run the shots eh? The Philippines is f*cked. CBCP is no different from Westboro baptist and the medieval bishops. Please take us away from the irresponsible members of CBCP who are being steered by a bunch of old fashioned and idiotic zealots that are out of touch with the real world. As if they have their own kingdom which is against our liberal minded and beloved new rockstar, Pope Francis.

A commercial on condom can corrupt values? What a weak framework that value and mind must have if a simple condom commercial can wreak havoc on it. Indeed, what a threat - the mighty condom. Because we all know that it is actually what incites and fuels people's sexual behavior. Corruption of minor is when they get raped by confused men in robes and these perpetrators go unpunished.

So should we get all dish washing detergent ads off the air too since people may be even more encouraged to dirty up their plates? Should we ban all those cooking shows with celebrity chefs because people may become more obese than they usually are (and start making "culinary chef " as the newest and coolest career)? Wait...let me think of something a little bit more closer to potential youth corruption....ahhh...maybe we should also ban the annual parties of many colleges since it gives the students excuse to mingle more intimately with their peers. Excuse me, but last time I looked we were in a democracy. Middle Ages, anyone?

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Puerto Galera (Port of the Galleon) is part of "The Most Beautiful Bays" in the world club. Natural beauty, diverse marine life, rich cultural heritage and contribution for local economic activity. Explore what Puerto Galera has to offer at the Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival.

The Malasimbo Music and Arts Festival 2014 has posted its 3rd announcement featuring a lot more local bands added to its already spectacular list of performing artists!

New additions are: Cocojam, Similar Objects, Toto Delgado, Crowns Down, Late Session II, Mellow Submarine, Unlimited Rise and DJ’s Gavin Boyd, Hallex M, Liquid A, Mikail and Japoy!

We are really so excited to join the festival on February 27 up to March 3, 2014. Let's all celebrate music, arts and nature at the Malasimbo Music and Arts Festival!

Wazzup Pilipinas!

We keep on growing bigger and better that we thought we should also enhance everything else that makes up Wazzup Pilipinas, including making a few revisions on our logo. We removed the coconut tree (that we felt was partially blocking the sun and we're also slowly getting rid of the nut-jobs looming around our community), improved the rays of the sun (made it more dynamic and non-proportional to symbolize the uniqueness of each community member), removed the white lines to make the logo more transparent (as we are also making our group more open to each other), made the symbols "W" and "P" close together (to represent our well-bonded camaraderie)...and there you have it!!!

We have an improved and enhanced new logo for Wazzup Pilipinas, the self-proclaimed "Ang Pambansang Blog Ng Pilipinas" (The National Blog of the Philippines) - the multi-awarded Filipino community blog that has received recognitions as "Top Ten Emerging Influential Blogs of 2013", "Most Outstanding Filipino Community Blog Site of 2013", and soon at a formal awarding at the Manila Hotel on March 22, 2014 - the "Best Filipino Community Blog Site of 2013" (I haven't even announced the fourth award yet - that's reserved for another blog post).

Incidentally, and also one of the real reasons why we revised the logo, we are turning one year old on March 22 - Yup! The exact same date when we are supposed to receive our third recognition is our First Year Anniversary!.

Our domain name expires on March 22, but do not fret because we have already renewed it as early as last week. It was such a strange coincidence that the domain expiration and the awarding will happen both at the same day. Like it was meant to be - perfect timing for a big double celebration!!!

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The long wait is finally over, as Havaianas, the makers of the world's most loved and famous flip-flops, will be making the Philippine debut of the Havaianas Origine.

All hail to the latest product extension of Havaianas to land our shores! These pairs are the newest innovation from the brand that will let you rediscover its heart and soul, allowing you to wander freely on the grounds of fun, fashion, color and excitement this season.

Being brought into the country for the first time, these equally-chic pairs of espadrilles from Brazil are set to make waves. Havaianas Origine swanks off the iconic buttery-soft rubber base matched with different colored canvass to cover the feet.

Made of 100% cotton uppers, these espadrilles have been hand-stitched to the brand’s iconic marshmallow soles and adjust to the contours of your feet. And expertly crafted in Brazil, they are perfect for the dreary unpredictable weather and suitable for any-lifestyle wear the same way flip-flops have been to Filipinos.

La Salle point guard Thomas Torres is one of the chosen endorsers of the new Havaianas Origine.

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Born in Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico, and grew up working with animals on his grandfather's farm, Cesar Millan is now a best-selling author, a much in demand public speaker, a branded pet care product designer/entrepreneur and, not least of all, an internationally popular and iconic series star of the hit TV show “Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan,” National Geographic WILD’s flagship series.

This man who used to be called "el perrero" or “dog boy” by his childhood bullies is now the $40 billion pet care industry’s most recognized and sought-after authority working in the field of dog care and rehabilitation. Because of his natural way with dogs, they would follow him everywhere and now soon he's going to be Live in Manila on April 29, 2014 at Eastwood Central Plaza.

In addition to co-creating and starring in “Dog Whisperer,” Millan has co-authored six books: the New York Times #1 Bestseller Cesar’s Way, the New York Times Bestseller Be The Pack Leader, Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan: The Ultimate Episode Guide, A Member of the Family, How to Raise the Perfect Dog, and Cesar’s Rules,which will be released in October 2010.

He has also generated numerous instructional DVDs and CDs, and continues to host a popular series of seminars where attendees learn how to apply his extensive knowledge of dog psychology and rehabilitation techniques.

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"Globe implemented late last month a 1 gigabyte (GB) daily data usage threshold or a total of 3GB per month, whichever comes first, for post-paid subscribers on unlimited data plans."- Inquirer.net

The Globe Telecom, and Smart,...and all the rest who plan to follow or have followed already.... unFAIR USE POLICY is simply "Deja Poo" - Yeah! We've heard of that same crap before (more likely CAP before. CAPS have been placed on pre-paid data services since 2010)...and they always get away with it thanks to telco regulator National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) who says they do not have the power to compel these telcos to provide FAIR service to their customers plus TRUTH in ADVERTISING - UNLI my pee!

"Pay P999 for the UNLIMITED LTE but wait, there's more, add PPP and you can use your pocket WiFi as hotspot for 5 users. Here's the catch, if you exceed 1GB per day, and for 3 consecutive days, your connection will be downgraded to UNLIMITED 2g or "NADA" - who can work properly with f*ckin 2G?

I used to be able to upload several videos on YouTube everyday, but now that's a memory. I may have to resort only to photos on my blogs, and say goodbye to incorporating videos - such a SHAME!

Wazzup Pilipinas!

We've shared the drinks.
We've danced to the beats.
We've told the stories.

But this night, we go beyond.
Tonight, we are limitless.

The UP Junior Marketing Association and Viber, Smart Prepaid, CloseUp, Monster Energy, El Hombre, together with 99.5 Play FM, J&B, Captain Morgan Rum, Axe, Onesimus, Toska Vodka, El Hombre XO, Magic 89.9, Republiq, JackTV, ETC, Exped, Pioneer bring you ADHOC: LIMITLESS on February 22, 2014 at the World Trade Center Halls A, B & C. Doors will open at 9PM.

In cooperation with Xin Wang, Rufos Famous Tapa, MTV Pinoy, Guestlist.ph, Colt 45, Asia Brewery, Manila Bulletin, Darlington, Music Fest Asia, and Teriyaki Boy

Also brought to you by GrabTaxi, Envision, PMX, and Concertus Manila

Our media partners are Chalk, Spot.ph, When in Manila, Clavel, Infektius, Wazzup Pilipinas, SM Youth, ClickTheCity, and Circuit

Kaspersky Lab Uncovers "The Mask": One of the Most Advanced Global Cyber-Espionage Operations to Date

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Kaspersky Lab’s security research team announced the discovery of “The Mask” (aka Careto), an advanced Spanish-language speaking threat actor that has been involved in global cyber-espionage operations since at least 2007.

What makes The Mask special is the complexity of the toolset used by the attackers. This includes an extremely sophisticated malware, a rootkit, a bootkit, Mac OS X and Linux versions and possibly versions for Android and iOS (iPad/iPhone).

The primary targets are government institutions, diplomatic offices and embassies, energy, oil and gas companies, research organizations and activists.

Victims of this targeted attack have been found in 31 countries around the world – from the Middle East and Europe to Africa and the Americas.

The main objective of the attackers is to gather sensitive data from the infected systems. These include office documents, but also various encryption keys, VPN configurations, SSH keys (serving as a means of identifying a user to an SSH server) and RDP files (used by the Remote Desktop Client to automatically open a connection to the reserved computer).

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Thank God it’s Sevenfriday.

The name alone tells you that this is something different. Both in design, heft, and form, it communicates a unique aura that is totally different from competing watches in its price bracket, and even higher-end luxury watches. Like the watch itself, a Sevenfriday wearer is sophisticated, successful, and with good taste—but with a rebelliousness of spirit that makes him unafraid to stand out.

While photos of Sevenfriday’s one-of-a-kind timepieces are often sufficient enough to wow even non-collectors, nothing beats the sensory and tactile experience of actually wearing a Sevenfriday watch. Up close and in motion, you can truly appreciate the elegant visual complexity of its multi-faceted dial, and admire the handiwork that defines its finishing. On the wrist, you can feel the grace underneath its massive, industrial modernity. Among bystanders, it elicits both admiration and curiosity—they want to know what you’re wearing, and how they can get one.

Lasy February 7, a Friday, Sevenfriday had their first official flash party launch at Black Market, an underground club on Sabio St. near Chino Roces in Makati City. This flash party established the brand’s presence and soon-to-be prominence in the Philippine fashion scene. Thanks to the efforts of the dynamic Sevenfriday Manila group, they treated Manila’s hip clique to a fun flash party at the Black Market on Sabio St. Chino Roces, Makati City. Also present in this happening event was Sevenfriday founder Dan Niederer himself, who flew in all the way from Switzerland to grace the occasion, as well as renowned UK-based watch blogger Anish Bhatt (@WatchAnish).

Wazzup Pilipinas!

It’s that time of the year again when couples, soon-to-be-couples, and those that prefer to go solo anticipate and look forward to – Valentine’s Day. Buddha-Bar Manila, the country’s top destination restaurant-lounge-bar, offers the most ideal Valentine’s venue for a complete romantic vibe that will make it a night to remember.

Buddha-Bar Manila is every diner’s favourite as it adheres to the demands of every occasion. A reputable first-class restaurant, Buddha-Bar Manila possesses a soothing atmosphere with relaxing mixture of black, red and gold colors that adorn the whole place giving it an elegant appearance where tranquility and abundance powerfully resonate, with prettily crafted chandeliers and mahogany-framed sofas picture that warm tone embracing every dining couples, family, friends, or in-between.

This Valentine’s Day, Buddha-Bar Manila will once again surprise the town with its signature promos and irresistible offers, with the 4 Course Valentine Dinner Specials, Buddha-Bar Manila makes sure it will be a date to forever. Diners are in for a treat as the 4 Course Dinner Specials prepared meticulously by internationally trained Buddha-Bar chefs are priced at Php 1800 net that perfectly goes with a free glass of wine, box of chocolate pralines for the ladies and especially wrapped gifts for the gentlemen.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Once again, Wazzup Pilipinas is a victim of "misrepresentation."

"Just because you are a member of the Wazzup Pilipinas community, it does not mean you are allowed to freely use the blog's name to gain access to events. Our representatives should be duly authorized and assigned by me. You cannot go around claiming you are at an event to represent Wazzup Pilipinas especially when you don't even write and submit to us any article, or even photos, about the event. If you really want to represent us, then contribute something. :)"

A few days ago I discovered that a person was using the name of my blog to gain entrance to events. This discovery happened when I attended an event held at one of the glamorous hotels in Makati. I noticed from the list of confirmed attendees that there was a lady registered under Wazzup Pilipinas. It was even misspelled with two "s" rather than a "z".

When I informed the people at the media registration area that there was this person who wrongfully registered under my blog, I was surprised that the lady in question was actually there right infront of us and has just came in and just signed on the registration list. She even pointed out the wrong spelling on the registration list. She actually looked familiar and I recognized her as a lady I met at a couple of events recently.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Philippines' flag bearer is figure skater Michael Christian Martinez who leads his national delegation during the Opening Ceremony of the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics. Not only is Michael Christian Martinez the lone Olympian from the Philippines at the Sochi Games, he's also the first to compete at the Winter Games since 1994.

As for support from the Philippine government, “I don’t even think anyone at the President’s office knows there’s a Filipino skating in the Olympics,” said Teresa Martinez, who said she has written the office several times asking for help.

Not a single peso from the government, "kahit isang singkong duling", but the government can afford to spend P150,000 a month to keep suspected criminals like Janet Napoles "safe".

Ad Astra: A Multimedia Portfolio Exhibit

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"The stars, ever alluring and spirited, make the night skies a fascinating view to look at. Each of them makes the most of the dullness and the emptiness of the vast universe. There are billions of them up above but nearest shine brightest among the others. We aspire to be like them, to bring out each of our unique skills in the field of arts and be noticed just like the stars. And through our exhibit we believe it is possible."

AD ASTRA: A Multimedia Portfolio Exhibit by 37 shining graduating students of AB Multimedia Arts from Lyceum of the Philippines University - Cavite Campus will be happening on February 14-16, 2014 at the CPC Building, Governor's Drive Cor. Hugo Perez, Trece Martirez Cavite.

Ad Astra is a Latin phrase meaning "to the stars". We represent these stars as an artist, all having the same goal: To give the light that shines in the dark.

This upcoming exhibit, we would like to share with you our own interpretation of stars, to give hope and inspiration everyone needs. We aspire to be like them, to bring out each of our unique skills in the field of arts and be noticed just like the stars. And through our exhibit we believe it is possible.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

"The wake of Arvin "Tado" Jimenez will be on February 9-11 (Sunday to Tuesday) at the Paket Santiago Funeral Homes, V.Gomez corner E. Dela Paz, San Roque, Marikina near the Our Lady of Abandoned Church. His remains will be cremated on Wednesday, 9am at Loyola, Marikina.
Public viewing shall start only beginning 2pm today, February 9, Sunday.

We appeal to the public and friends from the media to respect the wish of the family for private time with their beloved "Ama" this morning. Strictly, no taking of photos and videos inside the chapel.

To those who want to extend support to Tado's family, please send your donations (in cash or in kind) through Dakila. Contact Dakila at 09151780240

Indeed, everyone who loved him, one way or another, is in deep mourning. But we all know that he wouldn't want us to be lonely, in fact he prefers that we be celebrating - for he is now with the our heavenly father.

Below are what seems to be fitting tributes and memories of the man known as "Tado" whose real name is Arvin Jimenez, the "artivist" (from the combination of artist and activist). The very first one was a comic I created for Be Kind To Us Trolls (now called Be Proud of Us Pinoys) a few years ago starring Tado Jimenez and Mae Paner (more popularly known as Juana Change). Tado has tickled my fancy even before I personally met him, thus he will be missed so much.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Spoiler Alert: "Maggie got infected! Nooooo! .....Don't you wish you just got raped by a herd of the undead?!"

Let me present to you below my own version of The Walking Dead because I'm so excited for Episode 9 of Season 4 of the greatest TV series that made me lose sleep after watching it.

"The Blogging Dead TV Series : From Ross Del Rosario, the creator of Wazzup Pilipinas, is a story about strangers thrown together by a mysterious force known alternately as freebies, loot bags or tokens. They must help each other in order to survive in a violent enigmatic community where everyone else seems to have their own twisted version of what's morally upright and logically sounding.

A wild assortment of "know-it-all" bashers, haters, and rumor-mongers loom around every corner of social media, blogging from the Metro and even as far as across the seas... from the provinces and other countries, waiting patiently online to feast on their next oblivious victim.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Metrobank Foundation, Inc. (MBFI), the corporate social responsibility arm of the Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company (Metrobank), recognized its development partners during its 35th anniversary celebration last January 29 with the presentation of the Partners in Empowerment, Advocacy and Commitment to Excellence (PEACE) at the Le Pavillon, Metropolitan Park, Pasay City. His Eminence Luis Antonio G. Cardinal Tagle graced the occasion as the Guest of Honor which was also attended by guests from the national and local government, academe, business, diplomatic, non-government and socio-civic organizations.

One of this year’s recipients Philippine National Police represented by its Deputy Chief for Administration, Deputy Director General Felipe L. Rojas, Jr. was cited for its continuous support to MBFI’s commitment of nurturing a culture of excellence in our police force by honoring the outstanding achievements of its members through the Search for the Country’s Outstanding Police Officers in Service (COPS).

The theme of the celebration is Launching Dreams. Through its recognition and social development programs, Metrobank Foundation has continuously strengthened, support, and assist the Filipinos in their endeavors, raising their abilities and way of life, inspiring and uplifting their spirits so that they may be empowered enough to reach their dreams. The theme used kites, an object symbolically representing flight towards greater heights.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Magnus Eventus Inc., once again made the news as it opened another job fair recently for the month of February. Last February 6 and 7 was another mega employment opportunity for hopeful job seekers as they flock Starmall EDSA Shaw for the second job fair offering for the year.

Magnus Eventus is an events organizer who specializes in producing job fair events. They bridge applicants and employers together. They provide employers with a wide array of potential employees that they need for future business needs and to providing job seekers with an extensive network of potential employers which is necessary for their professional growth.

Attended by a great number of individuals all seeking their dream careers with the numerous participating companies of the job fair. There was even a free resume printing provided for those as the organizers way of helping the job hopefuls to start their search for their future employer.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Day 1 of the 7107 International Music Festival (7107 IMF) will be a wild night of EDM! Kaskade will headliner the first day of the 7107 IMF with 75 minutes of their sickest house music to probably prove to everyone why he was voted America’s Best DJ in 2011 and 2013. Can't wait for the live spin of It’s You, It’s Me, one of the DJ’s most recognizable hits. The Natives, Reid Stefan, Kid Ink, DJ Riddler, and the Asteroids Galaxy Tour will each get 60-minute sets next. Alvaro will also get a 75-minute set.

The second and last day of the 7107 IMF will be dominated by rock bands! The Red Hot Chili Peppers will be headlining the final day with a full concert duration of 90 minutes. We are hoping it will be an extended version of their Super Bowl halftime performance - an awesome example of music perfection to the extreme. They will be joined by Kendrick Lamar, Empire of the Sun, and Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, who will each get 60 minutes. Scarlet Heroes and Luciana will get 30 minutes.

The 7107 IMF will also feature 42 world-class local acts: Up Dharma Down, Radioactive Sago Project, Sponge Cola, Pulso, The Ringmaster, She’s Only Sixteen, Yolanda Moon, Runmanila, Jensen & The Flips, Maude, Abra & Loonie, DJ B-Cal, DJ Ron Poe, Nix Dam P, Encounters with a Yeti, Runway Crimes, Rocksteddy, Cheats, Itchyworms, Musical O, Sleepwalk Circus, Hidden Nikki, Skymarines, Child/ren of the Pilgrimage, The Charmes, Popular Days, The Sleepyheads, Not Another Boy Band, Wilderness, Taken By Cars, She’s Only Sixteen, Techy Romantics, Keith Bryan Haw, Marc Marasigan, Aryan, Travis Monsod, Katsy Lee, Carlo Atendido, Patrick Po, Jessica Milner, Motherbasss, and Skratchmark.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

One week after the launch of its mobile application for iPhone and iPad, Lazada launched its ‘Lifestyle Monday With Mastercard’ promotion with MasterCard Philippines today. Through this promotion, MasterCard cardholders in the Philippines will enjoy a 10% additional discount when they shop from the Lifestyle and Fashion categories of Lazada on Mondays. This discount will be reflected upon checkout and upon entering the credit card details of the cardholder.

The ‘Lifestyle Monday With MasterCard’ promotion covers categories such as Fashion, Health & Beauty, Home & Living, Home Appliances and Toys & Babies and will run until 31 December 2014.

“Through our relationship with MasterCard and the MasterCard network, we are rewarding our consumers at every step of the shopping process. Furthermore, MasterCard is an established brand and the partnership between Lazada and MasterCard gives cardholders enhanced security when they shop online with their MasterCard cards,” said Maximilian Bittner, Chief Executive Officer of Lazada.

MATA Expo 2014: A Silent but Deadly Fun-Filled Gathering!

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Imagine the in and out of the One Esplanade building located at the Mall of Asia Complex filled with people at every corner. That's how huge the turn-out of the MATA Expo 2014 event was - a great number of our deaf brothers gathered together for one whole day of fun-filled activities which includes cosplays, fashion shows, VRS tech exhibit, visual arts, food fest, wrestling, and even a hotdog eating contest, where you get to win P 5,000 as prize, was one of the games, plus a few performances that made a lively and pleasant afternoon for everyone.

According to their official website, MATA Expo is an international social-media enterprise expo and more than just a tradeshow. It is a great opportunity for corporations, organizations, and individuals with multicultural aspects "diversity" to promote their services / products to thousands of people. MATA Expo supports expanding the Multicultural Awareness in the public society.

I was informed that the February 8, 2014 event is happening for the second time in the Philippines and its definitely gone bigger than ever. Aside from the different booths that are situated around the venue (inside and outside One Esplanade area), the catwalk-like stage was at the center of the hall where performers, with their special entertainment numbers, impressed the audience gathered around the said stage .

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The youth’s legacy is the world’s future.

International student-run organization AIESEC believes that the change envisioned by the young leaders of today can be actualized through self-leadership, community collaboration, and global generation movement. The organization trusts that the change that the youth creates today will be a legacy for future generations to celebrate.

On March 21, 2014 at the Samsung Hall, Taguig City, the first International Youth Leaders Conference (IYLC) will bring hundreds of college-level individuals from all over the world who pursue social change.

The youth conference will have talks, collaborative workshops, and awards that explore the leadership aspects of the self, community, and the world through the potentials of leadership and youth empowerment.

Delegates are introduced to introspective, collaborative, and proactive outlooks on the capacity of young individuals to instigate inspiration among members of their generation to mobilize global change through youth leadership.