Red Cubs Repulse Late Bullpups Rally to Win Palaro Gold

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The San Beda Red Cubs reestablished their identity as the best high school team in the country as they, representing CALABARZON, defeated the NU Bullpups-led Team NCR, 86-80, in the championship game of the Palarong Pambansa Secondary Boys Basketball Tournament at the San Luis Sports Complex in Sta. Cruz, Laguna.

The Red Cubs, however, earned the win in a hard manner as the Bullpups crawled back from 22 points down to come to as close as two, 78-80, on back-to-back three pointers with less than two minutes left.

NCR had a huge chance of completing the comeback after CALABARZON lost the ball, but Cyprian Castillo missed a go-ahead three-point attempt.

Marc Diputado once again proved to be efficient in clutch moments as he drove hard to the rim in the ensuing play for a lay-in to bring the lead back to four, 82-78, with 32.8 seconds left.

Castillo got fouled in the next play and made two free throws to bring the lead back to two, but J.R. Gumtang put it back to four with his own two charities.

Miss Philippines Earth and the Get Philippines Comet at Mabuhay Restop

Wazzup Pilipinas!

What happens if you put in one night several lovely ladies, a futuristic vehicle that's a generation ahead of its time, and a musical show that showcases humorous Filipino idiosyncrasies? You'll have the best unforgettable night of your life that you'll forever cherish!

Miss Philippines Earth candidates will be visiting Mabuhay Restop tonight May 10, 2014 Saturday, the eve of the coronation night before the winners are crowned at the SM Arena Mall of Asia complex in Pasay City. The charming and adorable ladies will be there to have a relaxing dinner and to watch the musical travel show Manila Vanilla that was written and directed by Nestor U. Torre with music by Maestro Ryan Cayabyab.  The show will start at 7 pm but I suggest you be there earlier to get better seats.

The GET Philippines Comet electronic jeepney  will also be there for everyone to see. This is the same vehicle that US President Barack Obama inspected during his recent visit in the Philippines.

For more information, you may visit http://www.mabuhayrestops.com and LIKE them on their Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/mabuhayrestop 

Wheels for a Cause: The Biggest Car Show from Alliance in Motion Global

 

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Witness the biggest car show event in the history of network marketing happening on Wednesday, May 14, 2014 at the Harbour Square Parking Area. Around 100 cars and an estimate of 1000 people will flock the venue to ogle at the awesome cars.... and of course, don't forget about the babes who would more than glad to pose for your camera as they model beside the vehicles!

Wheels for a Cause is being brought to you by Alliance in Motion Global.

Wazzup Pilipinas is an online media partner.

Filipino Design Chosen as One of the Entries in the Electrolux Design Lab 2014

Wazzup Pilipinas!

At present time, people are so busy rushing in between schedules that they tend to compromise their health. Often, people would just opt to buy processed and unhealthy food, to fit into their busy lifestyle. Having a machine that could address this problem would help people to enjoy a healthy lifestyle without disrupting their busy schedule.

The Electrolux Design Lab 2014 have chosen the Top 100+ concepts creating the future of healthy homes, and among them is one Filipino. The Electrolux Design Lab 2014 calls on design students worldwide to compete for a six-month paid internship and a prize of 5,000 Euros by submitting innovative design ideas for future home environments.

In its 12th year, the Electrolux Design Lab competition addresses the issues of health and sustainability under the theme of Creating Healthy Homes - how we in the future can enjoy healthy well-being, live in pleasant environments and take care of ourselves and others in a way that is creative, sustainable and effortless. The popular global design competition this year received over 1,700 submissions from over 60 countries. 

I would just like to share to you the sole Filipino entry chosen in the contest. This is by Anna Klarissa Abjelina from UP Diliman, College of Fine Arts. Let us help vote for her and share this news so that others would know. Let us strongly support our very own!

Is Shopping for Groceries Online Feasible in the Philippines?

Wazzup Pilipinas!

While online shopping remains a force to reckon with in hard financial times, the question of whether online groceries is a reality or simply an attempt by the multi conglomerates to rip you off. There are many technicalities in terms of food handling when it is delivered, let alone when it is cooked. This article will discuss if online grocery shopping should become a common aspect of everyday life.

In terms of accessing groceries, it’s an easy task if you live in the suburbs or in the city. Heck, even if you live in the remote area, you can still access some kind of general store. Online groceries are for several types of people:

● There are these people who are too lazy and who would rather watch TV than go to the supermarket
● There are the individuals who are too busy working until late to go to the supermarket
● There are people that want to save time by avoiding the queues and the rush in the supermarket aisles
● And of course, there are people who want specific products but who are unable to access it in remote areas.

All in all, it seems like a pretty easy option. But people aren’t convinced about the whole idea. After all there are several questions that need to be answered;

-Will the food still be fresh?
-How much will I pay for delivery?
-Do I still get a rewards card?
-Do I get discounts as well?
-Will my orders arrive on time?

CALABARZON Escapes Late Western Visayas Onslaught, Sets Championship Date with NCR

Wazzup Pilipinas!

San Beda-CALABARZON almost blew up a 16-point advantage but regrouped just in time to beat Hua Siong-Western Visayas, 81-74, in their Palarong Pambansa Secondary Boys Basketball semifinal showdown at the San Luis Sports Complex in Sta. Cruz, Laguna.

CALABARZON once held a 42-26 lead late in the second quarter, but second half rallies by Western Visayas trimmed the lead to as low as one, 75-74, on a Leo Bayotas tip-in with 1:10 remaining in the game.

Bayotas had a chance to give Western Visayas the lead, but he missed a lead-changing three-pointer with 49.6 seconds left.

E.J. Furaque grabbed the loose ball and made two free throws after being fouled to increase CALABARZON's lead to three.

Spencer Pretta then tried his own luck from the outside, but his corner three clanked. Franz Abuda rebounded the ball, and Ralph Penuela got tagged with an unsportsmanlike foul for the dangerous defensive play against the son of former PBA player Freddie Abuda.

Red Robin Lugo Shines as Bullpups-Powered NCR Dethrones Central Visayas in Early Finale Rematch

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The NU Bullpups may have made up the core of the NCR team playing in the secondary boys basketball competition of this year's Palarong Pambansa, but a Malayan High School Red Robin stepped up for the Big City right when it needed the most.

Noah Lugo provided the clutch leadership for NU-NCR as the team made Sacred Heart-Central Visayas relinquish its championship won last year in the semifinal round of the basketball games at the San Luis Sports Complex in Sta. Cruz, Laguna.

Lugo kept the Magis Eagles-loaded squad at bay in the final moments of the match after the latter cut NCR's 13-point late third quarter lead to just three midway through the fourth.

He dished out crucial assists to fellow Red Robin Justin Serrano and NU standouts John Cauilan and Manuel Mosqueda, grabbed a crucial steal with 30 seconds left, and sank three free throws in the end to seal the 90-80 win.

A Child Grows Up (Through a Mother's Eyes)

Wazzup Pilipinas!

A mother's life is full of priceless moments.

Let us explore what it's like to raise a child... from baby to boy all the way through to independent young man.

This video was shot entirely in the first person perspective to put the viewer in the eyes of a mother - so we can better appreciate that they're always there for us.

This is what it feels like to be a mom. A mom who is always there, through thick and thin and through the years.

Here is a Mother's day treat for all of our readers.

DOT, ADB, and Canada Award Skills Development Training Grants to Improve Philippine Tourism

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Twenty six Philippine hotels, resorts, and various tourism industry associations have received skills development grants to upgrade the quality of services of their respective tourism workers.

The grants scheme program, established by the Department of Tourism, forms part of the Improving Competitiveness in Tourism project administered by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and funded by the Government of Canada. Launched in 2013, the $7.1-million technical assistance was designed to support the government’s effort to achieve inclusive growth and create employment opportunities in tourism.

Chosen from the country’s main tourism destinations, the awardees are based in Bohol, Cebu, Davao, and Palawan, which serve as the program’s pilot areas. Under the program, which will run for 38 months, various accommodation enterprises submitted proposals to help fund their skills training programs. These include food and beverage preparation and service, front office, personality development, housekeeping, and leisure and entertainment activities.

“We welcome this technical assistance as it complements our National Tourism Development Plan, which targets to increase tourism revenue, employment, and arrivals to aid in job creation and poverty reduction. Our collaboration with the Asian Development Bank and the Government of Canada for this grants scheme program proves that international institutions recognize the role of tourism as a key driver of economic development in the country,” Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr. said.

PETA Offers Circle of Friends Card and Prepaid Card

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The Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) Theater Center has emerged to be one of the most hip and happening art events spaces in Quezon City. Last April 5, PETA launched its exciting line up of original works and international offerings for its 47th season.

For original PETA performances, the hit musical Rak of Aegis will be having it's much awaited second run on June 20 to August 31. Meanwhile, Florante at Laura Remastered, a top-flippin' Balagtasan battle which infuses the classic text with gritty hip-hop humor and rippin' rhymes is sure to thrill theater fans this August 8 to September 20. Other beloved PETA productions such Batang Rizal, William and Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang will also be available on tour.

International partnerships with the PETA Theater Center Program offer cutting-edge pieces. In partnership with the British Council Manila, PETA offers Daniel Bye's The Price of Everything, a comic and provocative one-man show, showing on July 10-11, and James Cousin's There We Have Been, an award winning dance, showing this October 9-10. With support from the Japan Foundation Manila, Dora Company's Ayanasu will be showing back to back with PETA's Strong Boy, Deaf Boy and a Girl in an Abaya on July 26 at 3pm and 8pm . Finland's magical show for the whole family, Wally Watthead and His Lost Glow will enthrall audiences during its November run.

Just Thai Offers 25% Off on All Meals for Call Center Peeps

Wazzup Pilipinas!

You have to admire the stamina of most call center employees for being able to even work productively and with lots of energy even during graveyard shifts. I can imagine how hard it must have been before they got used to working at irregular hours of the night or even the wee hours of the morning. Their bodies probably took some time to adjust before they finally got comfortable.

As a salute to these fine men and women who painstakingly man their stations to talk with clients over the phone, Just Thai has come up with a reward for them. They only need to present their company IDs and they will automatically get 25% off on their meals.

That's 25% off on one meal for every presentation of company ID. Now isn't that a great incentive! You'll be able to feast on their Seafood with Basil (as seen from the above photo) at a discounted price.

So what are you waiting for, as soon as you take your break, come over to the nearest Just Thai restaurant to get your meal discounts! The promo is available only until May 31, 2014. Just take a look down below for more of the dishes available at this fine Thai restaurant.

myKaffe Bakeshop: Get Ready to Go Crazy on New Cupcake Concoctions

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Cupcakes are the best choice if you want to have just the right amount of cake instead of buying the full size. You also have the option to buy an assortment of flavors so you won't regret bringing home one kind that you thought looked great but will just end up in the garbage can after you had a bite. They are the best sweet treats ever invented to always keep you anticipating what new sugary concoctions the pastry chef will bring out of his or her kitchen next.

The owner of myKaffe Bakeshop is one of those cupcake masters that couldn't stop thinking of new creations to please her customers. The bakeshop recently launched its newest line of cupcakes that are sure to tickle your sweet tooth. New flavours include Salted Caramel, Kitkat, Oreo, Nutella, Tiramisu, and Cream Cheese. The best news is... myKaffe cupcakes can be afforded even by students at prices ranging from Php55 to Php95 only.

You may order just one cupcake for you to try out, or two for you and your special someone. They are also available by 3, 6 or even a dozen which are perfect for you and your barkada, colleagues or family to enjoy and indulge.

Now the fun doesn't stop there because they also offer smoothies and hot drinks to partner with your cupcakes. I'm betting you'll soon find your favorite drink to come up with a sweet and refreshing match made in heaven.

Miss Philippines Earth 2014: All Sexy and Ready for the Grand Coronation Night

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Miss Philippines Earth 2014 grand finals will be on the 11th of May 2014, and we are all excited to find out who among the candidates will emerge as the judges and crowd favorites, and who will finally be crowned as the new Miss Philippines Earth for this year.

The former winners from last year's Miss Philippines-Earth 2013 will now be handing over their respective crowns to the new set of Miss Philippines Earth. Last year's winners were:

Miss Philippines Earth 2013 - Angelee Delos Reyes
Miss Philippines-Air: Miss Nagcarlan, Laguna - Kimverlyn Suiza
Miss Philippines-Water: Miss Zamboanga City - Nancy Leonard
Miss Philippines-Fire: Miss Fil. USA West Coast - Alma Cabasal
Miss Philippines-Eco-Tourism: Miss Santa Maria, Bulacan - Bernadette Mae Aguirre

To give you a preview of the lovely ladies, here are never been shown before photos of the candidates during the press launch held at Solaire Resort and Casino pool area last April 22, 2014.  Hope you watch out for the grand finals on May 11, 2014 at SM Arena Mall of Asia Complex.

Epson Presents Gift of Brightness For Filipino Students

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Epson Philippines Corporation (EPC) recently embarked on a project called the “Epson Gift of Brightness”. The project is a testimony to Epson’s long-standing advocacy toward education and the youth.

The project provides technology assistance through the donation of Epson’s precise technology products to aid learning among primary and secondary students from public schools all over the Philippines. Each of the selected public schools receives high-volume Epson L and M series and dot matrix printers, a projector, a scanner, and a label printer. Epson also gives the schools a one-year supply of ink and ribbons to provide students from the beneficiary schools free printing for their school projects and assignments.

Manuel Roxas High School in Quezon City is one of the schools chosen to receive an Epson technology package under the Epson Gift of Brightness program. The Epson Technology Package includes Epson L and M series ink tank system printers, a dot matrix printer, a projector, a scanner, and a label maker. Epson also provided the school with one year supply of inks and ribbons. Also, to help maximize the benefits for 2000 students of the school, Epson Product Specialists provided training for the faculty members on how to utilize the donated products efficiently.

Slimmers World Miss Bikini Philippines Pageant 2014: Lovely Ladies in Elegant and Flattering Long Gowns

Wazzup Pilipinas!

We've seen the fit and slim lovely ladies from Slimmers World in their titillating two-piece bikinis during the press launch of Miss Bikini Philippines 2014 held last May 2, 2014 at the Diamond Hotel in Manila. But that was just the morning highlights.

In the afternoon, the ladies returned wearing elegant long gowns to really impress members of the media on how stunning they look wearing fabulously designed evening gowns that were more than flaterring to tehir well-structured figures. The catwalk presentation is for another competition where the winners will be announced on the 13th of May at the Resorts World Manila.

Too bad I'm going to miss the grand finals since I will be in Puerto Galera during that day. I'll be sure to watch it online if ever there's a live showing, and if ever there's a good Internet connection to where I am going.

To please everyone here who will also not be able to see them during the main event, I have here most of them as they allured us wearing amazing long gowns that really made them stood out complemented with their well-maintained bodies that were shaped at Slimmers World gyms.

R16 Philippines 2014: After-Event Highlights

Wazzup Pilipinas!

R16 in the Philippines was held last march 29, 2014 at the Mall of Asia. It is a b-boy competition with a joint collaboration with the Challenge Cup and Breakin The Law. The battle consists of a 1 on 1, 2 on 2 and a crew on crew bboy as well as a freestyle solo division with the categories in Popping, Locking and Allstyles.

Different dancers from the community in the Philippines flocked Mall of Asia to take part in this prestigious international battle founded by BBoy Dyzee of the Supernaturalz Crew. Winners for the b-boy battle and the Popping and Locking solo categories will fly to Singapore for the Southeast Asia R16 leg this coming June.

It was a groundbreaking event as the different dancers did what they do best in their craft and battled it all out against the different crews and dancers. For the Challenge Cup solo bboy competition, it was Babster and Allen who faced it off in the finals with Babster winning the final round and one to represent in Singapore.

PhilTeq Launches Cool Accessories to Perk Up Your Digital Lifestyle

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Gadgets have proliferated nationwide and it seems everyone even has more than one of these technological wonders that have swept the country due to the decrease in prices making it very affordable and easy on the budget.

The surge of China made products has also managed to penetrate a wider customer reach thus exposing everyone to the many possibilities of apps, customization and accessories. Just like everything else that we own, we would always want to match our gadgets with the coolest add-ons that will further improve our experience with our gadgets.

Philteq, one of the trusted distributors of networking products and computer peripherals for home and office, launched last May 6, 2013 at the E's Bar of EDSA Shangri-La Hotel another segment that will surely hit the mainstream – the digital lifestyle appliances, which is actually several choices of tech accessories with certain attitudes to fit your lifestyle.

Southern Plains: New High Performance Facility Rises In Laguna

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The country’s national Rugby team, the Philippine Volcanoes have found a home in Laguna. Tucked away in Southern Plains Subdivision in Calamba is a high performance facility built by Randell Carman, long time Philippine resident and founder of the HMR Group of companies.

An avid Rugby supporter, Randell built the facility to as the headquarters of the Alabang Eagles Rugby Club and to meet the Volcanoes’ need for a training camp. The field is also used by the PRFU’s local leagues and Rugby development programs

The newly built high performance facility can be seen from the highway and recently hosted the Philippines’ game versus Japan, Asia’s number 1-ranked Rugby team. The facilities include one International Standard Rugby field, one training field, two swimming pools, clubhouse for 300 pax, air-conditioned function hall for 250 pax, fully–equipped kitched and outdoor BBQ area.

Adjacent to the property are newly-built accommodations that can house 60 athletes in fully air-conditioned, dormitory-type facilities with four private rooms for coaching staff and a common room.

While it was primarily built for Rugby, Southern Plains can be used by other athletes, teams and even corporations for the team-building activities.

Ambeth Ocampo to talk on "Great Expectations from Philippine Museums" on May 17

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Historian Ambeth Ocampo will talk on "Great Expectations from Philippine Museums" on May 17, 2014, Saturday, at Yuchengco Museum from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. The talk is presented by the Alliance of Greater Manila Area Museums (AGMAM) in celebration of International Museum Day.

Open to AGMAM members, museum professionals, supporters of museums, and those interested in knowing more about museums, the talk will dwell on Dr. Ocampo's observations of museums here and abroad in light of new museology, community and audience engagement, and globalization.

Dr Ambeth Ocampo is a popular historian whose books and Philippine Daily Inquirer column have placed a different perspective on figures and events in Philippine history. His work as a historian has brought him to different libraries and museums here and abroad.

Lecture fee is P150, while AGMAM members attend free of charge. To reserve slots, email agmam.membership@gmail.com or call Yuchengco Museum at 889-1234.

Logitech Color Collection for 2014: ExpressYourself in Style with Eye-Catching Colored Mice

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Gone are the black, silver or white colors of tech gadgets and accessories. People are now more expressive that they want to match their gadgets with their unique personalities. Each color is reflective of some of our traits and would sometimes be quite accurate in defining us as a person.

When I was invited to attend an event which required us to wear something colored pink, purple, green and blue, I knew it would be the same colors of the new products that was being launched last May 6, 2014. Held at the Crowne Plaza located at Ortigas Center in Pasig city, was the launch of Logitech's New Color Collection for 2014.

I wore green to the event, not because its my favorite color, but because I wanted to try out something new, and a gadget or tech accessory that's colored green will be something different for me. Later I found out the color has a few meanings behind it which also somehow reflects my personality.

Philippine Volcanoes Looking Forward to 2nd Half of the Asian 5 Nations Series

Wazzup Pilipinas!

There are 37 volcanoes in the Philippines, of which 18 are still active volcanoes. Volcanoes can cause violent and destructive outbursts or eruptions causing disastrous effects such as airfall deposition, pyroclastic flows, rain triggered debris flows and lava flows.

This is probably why the Philippine Rugby team was nicknamed "Volcanoes" to mean power and destruction to everyone that blocks their path towards deserving victory. True enough, they represent the Philippines in international rugby competitions thus they need to excel and show to the world that nobody messes with the Philippines.

But after reading some information about them, I found out that the team name Philippine Volcanoes was adopted from the 1st Filipino Infantry Regiment composed of Filipino Americans who saw battle during World War 2. The first Philippine National Rugby Team that participated in their first international tournament was a mix of Expat and Filipino players. Thus, the team name.

Though the Philippine Volcanoes have their own share of losses, their performances in previous matches which already earned them worthy recognitions makes us hopeful for more victories soon. Rugby is fast emerging to be another popular sport in the Philippines that it would be nice to emulate a winning team and let it transcend to the next generations.

Team USANA Pilipinas: Young Filipino Athletes Endorses USANA Products

Wazzup Pilipinas!

What a wacky pose, especially for First Pinay World Pool Champ Bing Amit, who's posing like "I don't really know what". But what would you expect from such a young group of athletes with so much energy to keep them up and alive especially now that they are among the new brand endorsers of USANA products.

Personal care and high-quality supplements manufacturer USANA was proud to introduce to the members of the media 10 familiar faces in the world of Philippine sports that already made a name for themselves after earning several recognitions in their respective field of expertise.

Although only 7 personally made it to the press conference held at the USANA main office located at the Enterprise Tower in Makati, the other 3 were also mentioned during the presentation. The most recognizable for me was Taekwondo Hunk Japoy Lizardo because of his other brand endorsements giving him plenty of TV and print ad exposures.

The other athletes are Tin Patrimonio - the Venus of Women's Tennis, Janice Lagman - the Aphrodite of Taekwondo Poomsae, Aly Valdez - Women's Volleyball Phenom, Gaby dela Merced - The Racing Goddess, Niel Flores - Men's Volleyball Rising Star. Those who did not made it to the presscon were Abe Avena - Asian Senior Golf Champ, PJ Tierro - the Tennis Rising Star, and LA Tenorio - Team Gilas Pilipinas Power Point Guard.

Rambla: Special Brunch Meals Every Weekend at Rockwell

Wazzup Pilipinas!

There's a quite new (only a few months old) Spanish Mediterranean restaurant at Rockwell, Makati located at the La Joya building along Joya Drive that you should check out. The restaurant is named after a famous street in Barcelona and is from the same hombres who gave us the Las Flores Tapas and Bar Restaurant over at Bonifacio Global City (BGC).

Rambla, with Spanish Chef Pepe Lopez as head chef, now offers special brunch dishes available during weekends. I was invited by Uri Singla, one of its owners, to try out them out so I could share my experience to everyone here in my blog. It was several months when Uri and I last saw each other, and I was glad he remembered to invite me again to share an afternoon with them.

Actually, I was earlier invited to try out some aged-old cocktails when they invited Giancarlo Mancino over at Rambla as a guest bartender but I had a previous appointment that I couldn't let go that night so I just sent over some representatives. They said the guy owns his own Vermouth and will present a master class for a few press people. According to my representatives, Giancarlo explained the process of the aged cocktail and gave everyone a chance to try them all. Too bad I missed it, but I have an article about it on Wazzup Pilipinas contributed by one of the representatives.

Anyway, I am grateful there was another event at Rambla where I got to dine on some of Chef Pepe's brunch creations available from 11 am until 4 pm.

Around the World in 15 Dates by Telu Events

Wazzup Pilipinas!


Telu Events is hosting another speed dating event on May 31, 2014 entitled “Speed Dating: Around the World in 15 Dates.”

Specialized in organizing themed speed dating events, Telu Events will now focus on the theme on travel. All participants will receive Telu customized passport and boarding pass upon registration and the venue will be designed with travel paraphernalias. One will be able to date 15 people in one night at 5 minutes each and leave the rest of the matching to the organizers.

Still unsure? Speed dating events are organized not only for romantic pursuits but also to allow people socialize in a quick, fun and no pressure environment. Participants are usually professionals who want to meet people and expand their network for work, friendship or love. Some wanted to include such events as part of their bucketlist of things to experience. Telu Events always sees to it that participants go through age group and personality profiling to ensure high possibility of matches.

It’s time to get loose! It’s time to make this summer different from the rest!

Two Week MRT-3 Express Train Trial Starts on May 7

Wazzup Pilipinas!

In the meantime that the Department of Transportation and Communications’ (DOTC) long-term solutions – mainly the addition of 48 train coaches and the automation of ticketing systems – are still on the way, Metro Rail Transit III (MRT-3) management is exploring immediate measures to improve the rail system’s services.

After the successful testing of extended operating hours last February to March, an experimental run called the MRT-3 Express Train service will be conducted for two (2) weeks, from May 7 to 20.

“We hope that this trial run will yield positive results for passengers. Ideally, it will increase mobility – meaning it will get commuters from their origins to their destinations more quickly – as well as lessen waiting time at our most congested stations during peak hours,” said DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya.

Based on historical passenger volume data, most peak-hour weekday morning riders begin their trips at the North Avenue station. A substantial number also start from the Quezon Avenue, GMA-Kamuning, and Cubao stations. Most of these passengers alight at the Buendia, Ayala, Magallanes, and Taft Avenue stations.

LRT-MRT Ticketing Project Completely Aboveboard Says Abaya

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Reacting to initial reports that an Ombudsman case has been filed against him and other officials of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) in relation to the Automatic Fare Collection System (AFCS) Project, Secretary Joseph “Jun” Abaya vouches that laws and rules were properly followed in the project’s bidding process.

“We were sure to follow all bidding rules and processes very carefully. The process was completely aboveboard. This is why we are ready to face this complaint – as long as what you do is right, you have nothing to fear,” said Abaya.

“We have not received any official copy of the complaint yet. At this stage, we are only reacting to several news reports. We will review the complaint once we receive a copy, but we are not worried since we know that there was nothing irregular in the bidding out of the project,” he added.

According to initial reports, the complaint filed before the Ombudsman was made by a group called the National Coalition of Filipino Consumers or NCFC.

Brite Spokes Launches Experiential Travel with Exclusive Thematic Vacation Packages

Wazzup Pilipinas!

brite spokes by Kuoni (www.britespokes.com) is a new travel brand from an established tour wholesaler Kuoni that is now offering vacationers a variety of thematic trips, exclusive experiences and personally enriching adventures that were previously only available to independent travelers.

“We are excited and energized to launch brite spokes – a brand that will truly stand out in today’s evolving travel industry,” said Mark C. Morello, CEO, of brite spokes. “After a soft launch of the branded product in 2013, we’ve spent the past year developing itineraries that even the most seasoned travelers will find unique and packed with ‘remember forever’ experiences,” he continued.

brite spokes is seeking to capture the growing number of vacationers that over the past decade have repeatedly told researchers and pollsters that they are looking for experiential travel for their vacations.

"brite spokes experiential vacation packages have been created with current and developing travel trends in-mind as well as on-going feedback from our frontline researchers who test-run all of our itineraries to ensure seamless and exciting vacations," Morello added. “With a millennial mindset comes a travel brand focused around the kind of trips clients dream about and would plan if they had the time, as well as vacations other people actually want to hear about when travelers return home,” said Morello. “brite spokes representatives have great taste, incredible connections and stellar credentials ensuring their capability to effectively plan unique and spectacular travel experiences,” he added.

The Color Dash 2 Recipe: More Fun Run in the Philippines

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Color Dash upped its game last March 2, Sunday on its second year. This time, it was presented with the Call Center Association of the Philippines. Sixteen (16) colors dashed more than 5000 agents with family and friends.

The event started early in the morning with a warm up led by two fit ladies, Michaella Recto and Andrea del Rosario. The crowd had a great time doing their stretches buckled up with inspiration to get fit. As the gun start was fired, everyone was blown with colors at the start line. They were dashed with several colors throughout the course. When they reached the finished line, the sponsor booths were ready to accept them.

Several fun photo booths can be seen together with fun games like a sports drink bong by Easy Taxi while Manila Water had a roulette to give each spinner a prize amongst the other exciting booths.

Epson Invites Photographers Worldwide to Compete in the International Pano Awards

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Get a chance to win approximately $40,000 in cash and prizes at the Epson International Pano Awards. Epson, a leading digital imaging company, invites professional and amateur photographers around the world to enter their panoramic photography competition that is now on its fifth year. The competition is open to all professional and amateur photographers and early-bird entries are now open until 13 July 2014.

The Epson International Pano Awards is dedicated to the art of panoramic photography. It showcases the work of panoramic photographers worldwide and is the largest competition for panoramic photography. Advances in digital photography and editing software has resulted in a surge in the popularity of image stitching, especially in the panoramic format. Panoramic film photography also remains alive and well.

"Without a doubt, this world-class photographic competition represents an ever increasing standard of quality in both image capture and print. Each year we are seeing more and more captivating entries and the outstanding quality continues to impress me," said Craig Heckenberg, Business Unit Manager for Epson Australia.

Boracay Island TV Commercial from It's More Fun in the Philippines

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Philippines' Department of Tourism (DOT) has recently released an international TV commercial showing that fun never fades in Boracay, Philippines - Asia's 24/7 island. The video advertisement intimately promotes Boracay as the place to be this summer. It encourages everyone to have their next vacation on the white sand beaches of this tropical paradise.

Boracay has been the ultimate beach destination. You are always "in" if you're hanging out there especially during summer. They've even coined a word "LaBoracay" capitalizing on the usually long break during Labor Day.
 
LaBoracay is an unofficial holiday festival that kicks off on May 1, the same time the Labor Day in the Philippines is commemorated.

Thousands of people from all over the country flock the island of Boracay, to have fun, bask in the sun and relax. Every part of the White Beach is filled to the brim with people enjoying the music, dancing, drinking and all kinds of merriment.

Every year the parties get wilder with a promise of one unforgettable summer experience.

Slimmers World Miss Bikini Philippines Pageant 2014: Spotlight on Beauties in Bikinis

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Last time we presented to you mostly only candidate number 16 of the Slimmers World Miss Bikini Philippines Pageant 2014 because she emerged as the judges favorite for winning two special awards. Let us now take a look this time at the other candidates all vying for the crown. We can't wait for May 13, 2014 when the winners will finally be announced at Resorts World Manila.

There were a total of 30 candidates (but how come I don't see candidate numbers 4 and 14 - missing in action?) all seemingly fit and fab as they strut their stuff and flaunted their assets at the catwalk setup during the press launch held at the Diamond Hotel just a few days ago. We saw them at their best wearing swimsuits where everyone was treated to really slim and sexy bodies. They also walked gracefully wearing very attractive and elegant long gowns that accentuated their beauties and pleasantly fit bodies.

I am sure everyone in the crowd were captivated with the adorable bodies that hang out at Slimmers World gyms. They've seen what several days of workout at Slimmers World can do to those people who want to look good and feel great as well. I believe it follows that when you are fit, with firm muscles and well maintained physique, your outlook in life will also become more vibrant and energetic. Slimmers World gives everyone a chance to make their bodies fitting to be called "works of art" that were sculptured to perfection.

Get ready to pick out your favorites from these gorgeous bodies all deserving to be called the Slimmers World Miss Bikini Philippines 2014.

Ideal Vision Lets You See the Ideal You

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Ideal Vision offers a wide variety of eyewear options to help you find the best one for your needs.

It’s all about options. This catchphrase holds true to a lot of aspects, from the most mundane of things like where to go for dinner on a Friday night to the big ones like a career change. Of course this also very much applies on one’s style.

“Ideal Vision is all about options,” says Dr. Joy Go, Ideal Vision Center AVP for Marketing. “Your eyewear is pretty much like a haircut. There are styles that look good on you and there are those that don’t. So we want to offer a wide range of options until you find the best one that’s right for you.”

Ideal Vision has always been dedicated to providing unparalleled superior service to its consumers. Included in this thrust is to offer expertise that can guide people in choosing the best eyewear for them whether it be for fashion or functional purposes.

Of course this can only be delivered through the wide variety of options that Ideal Vision has. From high end names to practical brands, the brand has it all to make sure that anyone can find the eyewear that is perfect for their needs.

Viewsonic Launches “Get More with Viewsonic” Raffle Contest in the Philippines

Wazzup Pilipinas!

ViewSonic Corp., a leading global provider of computing, consumer electronics and communications solutions, is announcing its latest promotion dubbed as “Get More with ViewSonic”, a raffle and instant win promotion that is open to all Filipino residents, 18 years old and above. For every purchase of any Viewsonic monitors, customers are entitled to a raffle coupon to win attractive prizes as well as a chance to win small prizes instantly.

Raffle Prizes includes: Grand Prize: Asus Transformer Infinity Notebook (worth Php 29,995.00) and Minor Prize: 5 Winners of WD 1 TB My Passport

Instant Win Prizes includes: 300 pcs of Sodexo Gift Certificate worth 100 pesos, 100 pcs of Starbucks E-GC worth 300 pesos, 30 pcs of Ayala E-GC worth 500 pesos and finally, 15 pcs of 32 Gb Flash Drive

MRT-3 Coaches Bidding Saved Government P 3.5-B – Abaya

Wazzup Pilipinas!

For calling for an open and transparent bidding in the supply of train coaches to the Metro Rail Transit II (MRT-3), the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) was able to save no less than P3.348 Billion for the government.

DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya makes this observation following suggestions that his agency should have awarded the Inekon Group contract to supply MRT-3 with 48 coaches through a negotiated bid.

“The decision to bid the project out resulted in almost P 3.5 billion in savings, without sacrificing the quality of the train coaches. Those savings can now be used in other programs which will also improve public services. This is in accordance with our push for reforms and good governance at the DOTC,” said Abaya.

He brushed off claims that Inekon, a Czech corporation, had been blacklisted. He said the firm was in fact invited to participate in the bidding process, but it declined to do so despite the fact that it had purchased bid documents.