Warner Music Philippines' Year-End Blogcon 2015

Wazzup Pilipinas!

I recently attended the year end blogcon of Warner Music Philippines held at Lola Café + Bar, Sct. Lozano, Quezon City on December 11, 2015.

This is the first time I will be attending an event organized by Warner Music Philippines so I feel honored that they reached out to me for an opportunity to collaborate with them in sharing the news about their artists, both foreign and domestic.

Warner Music Philippines is an affiliate of Warner Music Group, a leading music company in local and international repertoire that operates through numerous international affiliates and licensees in more than 50 countries. The label is also home to a collection of the best-known record labels in the music industry. WarnerMusic Group also includes Warner/Chappell Music, one of the world's leading music publishers.

The night started off with a fabulous dinner featuring Lola Café + Bar's specialties including their pasta. Donna Aquino, Warner Music Philippines’ Digital Media Promo Executive, welcomed the attendees and led the program announcing many news about several artists including Coldplay’s latest album, “A Head Full of Dreams”, Charlie Puth's debut album Nine Track Mind, the return of Janet Jackson and Missy Elliott, and many more international releases.

The 700 Club Asia Returns to GMA 7

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The 700 Club Asia host Kata Inocencio joins the Walang Tulugan with the Master Showman gang this Saturday, December 12, at 12 midnight, to share the good news about the inspirational show’s move back to its original home. The 700 Club Asia will start airing in GMA 7 on Monday, December 14, weeknights from 12:00-12:30 a.m.

NBA All-Star Voting 2016 Presented By Verizon

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The National Basketball Association (NBA) and Verizon recently tipped off NBA All-Star Voting 2016.  The all-digital program gives fans everywhere the opportunity to vote for their favorite players as starters for NBA All-Star 2016 in Toronto, the first All-Star Game to be held outside of the U.S. in the event’s 65-year history.

New to the voting program this year, NBA fans are now able to cast their daily votes directly through Google Search on their desktop, tablet and mobile devices.  They can also vote on NBA.com, through the NBA App (available on Android and iOS), SMS text, and social media networks including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, as well as via Sina Weibo and Tencent Microblogs in China.  

All current NBA players are available for selection.  Fans can select up to two guards and three front court players from each conference when choosing starters via NBA.com or the NBA App.  

GSMA: Delay in Allocation of 700 MHz Band Hinders GDP Growth and Job Creation

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The GSM Association (GSMA) stressed the need for Asia-Pacific countries to allocate the 700 MHz band to mobile broadband use immediately, in order to take advantage of its socio-economic benefits. It found that further delays in the use of the spectrum could result in billions of dollars worth of losses in incremental GDP growth.

Utilizing the 700 MHZ spectrum, which is well suited to providing mobile broadband coverage indoors and over large areas, can potentially increase countries’ GDP impact by tenfold according to the GSMA. Its Mobile Economy Asia study also found that the spectrum use can create 2.1 million additional jobs for the region by 2020.

The ITU reinforced GSMA’s findings by globally harmonizing the 700-MHz band and allocating it for LTE use in ITU Region 1, which covers Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia. The decision was taken during this year's World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-15), and follows similar action taken at WRC-07, which saw 700-MHz spectrum adopted by ITU regions two and three, which cover the Americas and Asia-Pacific.

“The global harmonization of the 700 MHz frequency band that has been decided by WRC-15 paves the way for manufacturers and mobile operators to offer mobile broadband at an affordable price in currently underserved areas,” said François Rancy, Director of the ITU Radiocommunication Bureau.

Philippines AirAsia Gears Up for 2016

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The hype is building up for AirAsia in the Philippines with the consolidation of its operation two years after its local unit, AirAsia Inc. signed a partnership agreement with home grown airline ZestAir in 2013.

Philippines AirAsia CEO, Joy Cañeba said, “Efficient service to our guests and safety are at the heart of everything we do in Philippines AirAsia. We are here to provide only the best value and world-class service that every Filipino deserves.”

Philippines AirAsia has replaced the AirAsia Zest brand following the approval from Philippine regulatory authorities in September by the Securities and Exchange Commission and in December by CAAP (Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines) and CAB (Civil Aeronautics Board) this year.

The airline has a total of 927 regular employees after the transition to a single operating certificate in September. Captain Dexter Commendador was also recently appointed Chief Operating Officer.

To celebrate the announcement, international and domestic flights to/from Manila, Davao, Cebu, Tagbilaran (Bohol), Puerto Princesa (Palawan), Kalibo(Boracay), Tacloban, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia and South Korea are on promotional sale from as low as P1,299, all-in and one-way only and available for booking at www.airasia.com from today (December 7) to 13 December 2015. The travel period for this promo will be for immediate travels now until30 June 2016.

Globe Powers Rafa Nadal Tennis Clinic

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Clinic aims to train and at the same time inspire promising Tennis players with proper training and access to academic education

Topspin Ace PH together with Globe Telecom brings to the Philippines for the first time, the Rafa Nadal Academy, a high-performance academy where together with Nadal’s team, they will develop young tennis players using the same values that have been fundamental to his achievements and success.

Organized by Topspin Ace PH, the Academy’s representative in the country and exclusively presented by Globe, It will be a by-invitation only clinic that will be personally conducted by his coach and uncle, Toni Nadal, who also heads the academy. The clinic will be held at Colegio de San Agustin in Makati on December 6, 2015.

“At Globe, every effort we undertake lets us bring our customers’ passions closer to them. From music to movies, and now sports, we’d like to give our customers who are also major tennis fans the best access so they can meet and see live their favorite players. Through the Rafa Nadal Tennis Clinic, not only will our customers see Nadal live, they also get to be a part of a worthy cause by supporting our young tennis talents,” said Globe Vice President for Postpaid Business Erli Valdez.

Php334B Needed For Biodiversity Conservation In The Philippines

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The Philippines is one of 17 mega diverse countries, harboring more diversity of life per hectare than any other country in the world. Yet encroachment in forested areas, pollution, over fishing, poor land management practices, are leading to biodiversity loss at an alarming rate.

To address these threats, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), other national government agencies, academe, civil society and development partners, has developed the Philippines Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (PBSAP). The PBSAP is the country’s road map in conserving biodiversity and critical ecosystem services for the next 13 years.

Similarly, through the UNDP’s Biodiversity Financing Initiative (BioFin), the DENR-BMB has determined the financing gap of implementing the PBSAP, estimated to be at least Php 334 billion (US$7.4 billion) over the next 13 years [PhP24 billion annually]. This covers actions on: forest, coastal and marine, inland wetlands, caves and cave systems, protected areas, invasive alien species, agrobiodiversity, access and benefit-sharing and urban biodiversity.

Miss Aviation Philippines 2016 Organizers Hold Preliminary Screening of Candidates

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The search is on for the most captivating woman who can represent the Philippine Aviation Industry!

The Miss Aviation Philippines 2016 preliminary screening of candidates was held on December 12, 2015 at the Mirror Theater Studio located on the 5th floor of the SJG Building in Kalayaan, Makati city.

A total of 11 candidates gave their best to impress the screening committee with both their physical and intellectual attributes which included cocktail dress and swimsuit presentation, and the highly stressful question and answer portion.

The crowned winners of the Miss Aviation Philippines 2016 beauty pageant, which will hold its pageant night on February 9, 2016 at the Manila Peninsula hotel, will grace the 20th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF), one of Asia’s longest-running sports aviation events that gathers aviators from the local and international scene. The 4-day PIHABF will be held on February 11 to 14, 2016 at Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga with the theme of "A Weekend of Everything That Flies."

The screening committee was led by Captain Joy Roa, Event Director of the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) and Morena Carla Cabrera-Quimpo, Miss Aviation Philippines pageant director. Cleo Margaret Brown, Miss Aviation Philippines 2015 grand winner, and Lizl Louise Resoles, 1st Runner Up, also joined the committee as part of the judges.

RAWR Awards Recognize Popular Showbiz Personalities

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LionhearTV, the showbiz and entertainment blog with the heart of a lion, recently concluded its awards nights dubbed as the RAWR Awards where they recognized more than just the popular celebrities but also equally popular radio and TV networks, plus the most outstanding fans club that emerged as the top supporter of the  celebrities they patronize and adore.

Overall, the Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla (Kathniel) love team rated most popular when the results revealed several awards related to their tandem. Some members of the fans club Kathniel KaDreamers, who were also recognized as one of the awardees, were present at the event. Representatives even went up the stage to receive their award trophy.

ABS-CBN talents and shows were declared mostly as the winners of the awards night. It is just a pity that all awardees were not around to personally receive their awards.

We were told that KathNiel, and even Alden Richards (half of the AlDub accidental love team) will also be attending the event. But unfortunately, there were no signs of them, and even the other awardees. That's a negative then for backstage requests for some of our companions who were there to watch the awarding and take selfies with the winners.

Brandon Vera Versus Paul Cheng for Main Event of One Championship

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The largest sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), announced today that the mixed martial artists competing at ONE: SPIRIT OF CHAMPIONS have made weight and are ready for all the action which takes place tomorrow evening, 11 December, at the state-of-the-art Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, Philippines. In the main event, Brandon “The Truth” Vera will take on Paul “Typhoon” Cheng for the inaugural ONE Heavyweight World Championship.

Visit the official ONE: SPIRIT OF CHAMPIONS weigh-in photo gallery by clicking: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/6k384krsvdao0f3/AABoZfKfuYDUszYYrjf_77sta?dl=0

Brandon “The Truth” Vera of the Philippines stated, “Big ups to Paul Cheng for taking this fight on short notice. It takes a warrior-mentality and a lot of guts to step inside the cage, especially against a guy like me, but we put it all on the line for the fans. This fight means a lot to me, my family and my country, and I will do everything in my power to bring home the belt. I’m ready as I’ll ever be.”

Paul “Typhoon” Cheng of Taiwan stated, “This is definitely the toughest fight of my life. Brandon Vera is one of the most well-known fighters in the sport. I don’t expect anything easy by all means, but I’m always down for a good scrap, even if the fight goes one round or five. I’m never giving up. I have a lot to fight for – I’m fighting for the people of Taiwan, represent! I’m ready to get in there and put on a show.”

Tickets for ONE: SPIRIT OF CHAMPIONS, are still available at www.smtickets.com.

Lakay’s Geje Eustaquio Out to Defy Gravity, Seeks Redemption

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While some fighters crumble at the mere hint of resistance, ONE Championship flyweight Geje “Gravity” Eustaquio of Team Lakay revels in it, maintaining a cool, calm demeanor in the face of imminent danger. Because of his icy composure, Eustaquio has been able to hang tough with some of the best fighters in his division.

On Friday night, December 11, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, Philippines, Eustaquio (6-4) will take on China’s Yang Jianbing (5-1) in a three round flyweight contest in front of Eustaquio’s hometown Filipino crowd.

Eustaquio figured in two straight losses in his most recent outings, but it came against two solid opponents.

In September of 2014, Eustaquio challenged Brazilian Adriano Moraes for the ONE Flyweight World Championship in Cambodia. He lost by submission in the second round. In April of the following year, Eustaquio dropped a split decision to Thailand’s Anatpong Bunrad.

Though things have not exactly gone to plan, Eustaquio is still considered one of the most talented strikers at flyweight. Many of his peers are bigger, longer and more powerful, but few exhibit the kind of composure Eustaquio displays in the cage.

Six Exciting Condo Projects To Watch Out For In 2016

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As industry experts continue to note the Philippine real estate’s upward trend, developers are ramping up the launch and completion of projects to match the predicted demand. Here are a few of the condo developments that some of the country’s biggest property brands are working on or will launch in the coming year.

San Antonio Residences (Megaworld Corporation)

This year, Megaworld added a 20th tower to their portfolio of properties in Makati when they launched San Antonio Residences, which will rise along Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue. As a condo that offers a family-oriented lifestyle, the 40-story tower will have amenities such as open areas, swimming pools, dance studio, and street fitness park. To be composed of 848 units, San Antonio Residences is slated for completion in 2020 and is predicted to generate sales of Php2.1 billion.

Studio 7 (Filinvest Land)

Filinvest Land’s desire to tap the millennial market led to the launch of Studio 7, a condo development in Quezon City that is designed to cater to the needs of young professionals. Aside from offering a total of 459 residential units, the 17-story condo will also host workplace and commercial components in the form of an office tower and Studio 7 Mall, a commercial center with elements such as a supermarket, bistros, and cafes, among others.

The Alcoves (Ayala Land Premier)

Ayala Land Premier took into account the fact that Japanese tourists are flocking Cebu when they conceptualized their latest development, The Alcoves, which will rise above Ayala Center Cebu. Consisting of 480 residential units at a minimum of 50 square meters each, the 39-story development offers seven residential concepts including a Zen theme for one-bedroom units. The mixed-use tower is expected to be completed in 2020.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens Special Advance Screening by Golden Ticket Events

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The biggest movie event of the year has arrived! Golden Ticket Events will be holding a special advance screening of Star Wars: The Force Awakens on December 16, 2015 10 PM at SM Megamall Cinema 3.

Join Princess Leia, Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, Chewbacca, R2-D2, C3-PO, plust an all-new cast of heroes, bots, and villains in the newest Star Wars chapter to hit the silver screen!

Catch this once in a lifetime treat with your friends, family, and loved ones! Every purchase comes with free popcorn, bottled water, and loot bag including 1,000 PHP worth of goodies and Gift Certificates!

Hurry, catch this once in a lifetime treat! Grab tickets online at http://j.mp/starwarsph or contact Ken at 0917-518-5377 / Den at 0917-555-3366.

Brought to you in part by Forever Beautiful, Treetop Adventure, Business Mirror, View Magazine, Cook Magazine, Zoomanity Group, ASTIG.PH, and Tag Media and Public Relations.

Event Hashtags: #StarWars #TheForceAwakens #GoldenTicketPH

Arena Island of Palawan Offers An Exclusive Holiday Getaway

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Holidays are best spent away from the crowded streets of the city, especially at Christmastime. For anyone who’s craving to get away, Palawan is always a good idea. After all, it is the 2015 best island in the world, according to a luxury and lifestyle travel magazine. Palawan's best-kept secret, Arena Island, offers a tranquil and serene setting, perfect for a group, couple, or solo holiday getaway.

The 4-hectare private island, is set off the coast of the municipality of Narra, 3 hours away from the capital, Puerto Princesa City. Arena Island has a unique blend of privacy and comfort because guests can have the island all to themselves during their stay. The visitors are given value through exclusive and personalized services of a highly-trained crew, comprised of professional chefs and butlers.

The Casa and the native-themed Casita, best for a couple’s honeymoon, are the premier accommodations at Arena Island. Group travelers, meanwhile, can relish their break with the gentle breeze in the Pavilion, which accommodates up to 15 single mattresses.

The appeal of Arena Island goes into its culinary treats as well. Guests have the privilege to choose what will be served on their table. They can select from a wide range of home-cooked meals of fresh seafood caught around the island. Moreover, guests can choose among the Casita’s verandas, the beachfront, the treehouse, the sandbar, or the canopy of trees as the backdrop of their meals.

Wazzup Pilipinas is Most Outstanding Influential Blog Site of 2015

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We did it again! We are recognized again as the Most Outstanding Influential Blog Site of 2015 at the National Customers' Choice Annual Awards (NCCAA) 2015 held recently on December 9, 2015 at the Eastwood Richmonde Hotel at Eastwood Libis, Quezon City.

Together with many other awardees from various industries from the Metro Manila, Provincial, and National Categories, we proudly receive this award and dedicate this to our readers, supporters, correspondents, sponsors and all the brands and organizations that trusted us throughout the almost 3 years we've existed.

Spotted at the awards night were celebrities and entrepreneurs Ara Mina aka Hazel Reyes, 8-months preggy Shamcey Supsup Lee and her husband Lloyd Lee, and guest of honor Dingdong Avanzado aka Fernando Avanzado, former OPM artist and now Vice Governor of Siquijor. All of them are also awardees for being among the top-ranked professionals with deserving companies.

This is our 4th award this year, aside from the many other awards we've received from the previous years since we started on March 2013. We will soon be celebrating our 3rd year on March 2016 but we believe there are so many things that we need to do to innovate and improve our services.

The night was a celebration to acknowledge the accomplishments of each awardee so we would all be reminded of our valuable efforts to excel in our chosen fields of interests.

Cash Cab Philippines Ready to Roll with Ryan Agoncillo on December 22

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Who doesn't love the cool and always composed Ryan Agoncillo? He is excellent as a host and has been doing a great job for several years already. No wonder AXN Philippines has chosen him to be the host, or the cab driver, for their new reality game show where passengers get the opportunity to win thousands of cash just by answering a series of questions.

The show will premiere with a back-to-back episode on the 22nd of December at 8:50 pm so better put it already on your respective calendar of events.

During the show, a specially fitted out Cash Cab will navigate the busy streets of Manila while picking up unsuspecting passengers. The Cash Cab will appear as a regular taxi service however, upon entering the car passengers will find themselves as contestants on a truly mobile game show.

With approved questions coming from AXN, the number one general entertainment channel in Asia, our cab driver host Ryan surprises the passengers every time they get on the Cash Cab. Mixed emotions coming from different passengers but definitely a lot of fun and enjoyment while on board the Cash Cab.

At a media launch on December 9, 2015 held at the Aracama restaurant in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Tagig city, Ryan revealed the basic concept of the game show where unsuspecting passengers get to test their wits and eventually winning cash prizes. They say the biggest prize they were able to let out was Php 23,000 and there are opportunities to even double it if you play your "cab" right. 

DOE Awards Checks to Power More than 30,000 Households

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Boosting its efforts to provide power to more households nationwide, the Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded financial assistance to various electric cooperatives during the Opening Ceremonies of the National Energy Consciousness Month on December 7.

As part of the Nationwide Intensification of Household Electrification (NIHE), around PhP114-million were allocated to 22 electric cooperatives in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao covering 30,512 households. This program is in support of the efforts of the government's Total Electrification Program which aims to promote the benefits of electricity to uplift the economic well-being of our people especially in rural and remote areas. (Please see attached List of Beneficiaries.)

Energy Secretary Zenaida Y. Monsada said “This program cements the partnership of the DOE and electric cooperatives to support the government’s goal of total electrification of the country,” while also encouraging all electric cooperatives to undertake a more detailed household electrification program to establish a long-term holistic electrification plan.

Under the NIHE, the DOE targets to provide power to at least 45,000 households for 2015-2017 to reach its 90% household electrification aims by 2017.

Singapore Airlines Celebrates The Yuletide Season With All-In Fares To Singapore, Southeast Asia, Australia And Europe

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Singapore Airlines, in partnership with Changi Airport Group, spreads the Christmas cheer by offering special all-in roundtrip fares to Singapore, Southeast Asia, Australia and Europe from USD160, USD200, USD600 and USD890 respectively. Customers may avail of this offer until 31 December for outbound travel from 12 December to 30 June 2016.

From justUSD160 all-in, fly to Singaporeand visitthe newest tourist attractions and exciting theme parks.Explore Southeast Asia such as Bali for USD250, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Kuala Lumpur for USD200, and Penang, Kota Kinabalu,Kuchi, Langkawi, Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi and Danang for USD 220.

The land down under can also be your holiday destination as Singapore Airlines offers special fares to Darwin and Perth from USD600 as well astoAdelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, Melbourne and Sydney from USD650.

There isno better time to fulfill European travel dreams than this Christmas. With Singapore Airlines’ USD890 offer, customers can embark on their vacations to Amsterdam, Barcelona, Copenhagen, Frankfurt, London, Manchester, Milan, Moscow, Munich, Rome, Zurich and Istanbul.

Air Supply Holds 40th Anniversary Tour Concert at The Theater of Solaire

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Thanks to a friend, my wife and I got to watch the 40th Anniversary Tour concert of Air Supply - Russell Hitchcock and Graham Russell up close on stage at the front seats of The Theater of Solaire Resort and Casino in Pasay city.

Held on December 7, 2015, the famous duo of the 80s were live in Manila for the Philippine part of their tour. They will also be holding another concert in Lanang, Davao city on December 9 so that means two runs for the Philippines.

I have to admit that when I heard them sing, I really thought they were lip-syncing because they still sound so damn great. I can't help it because during the parts when they were talking up stage, Hitchcock's voice was very low, but when he sang it was like the same voice from the earlier years when they stole the hearts of everyone due to their unique voices (especially of Hitchcock). Graham Russell even sang a solo after rendering a poem which I thought was equally amazing!

The night was actually started with a few Christmas songs from some young carolers. It was a surprise since their participation was not indicated in any of the posters or announcements of the concert. The only act we knew was of The Company who did three front-act songs including a compilation of songs that covered years of music.I was just wondering why their list did not include any of the Air Supply hits.

Philippine Society of Youth Science Clubs Presents 22nd National Children’s Science Interactive Workshop

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Aiya Expeditors! Ready those cook books, tie up your aprons, and turn up the heat on that grill!

The Philippine Society of Youth Science Clubs (PSYSC), the largest umbrella organization of science clubs in the Philippines, proudly presents the 22nd National Children’s Science Interactive Workshop (NCSIW) 2015 with the theme, “The Palatine Expedition: Deciphering the Recipe from the Scrolls of Edesia.”

Experience a week-long adventure and explore the wonders of food science and food technology. Learn from the best in the field as distinguished speakers share their knowledge and expertise. Be immersed in the exciting science activities and get to know fellow science enthusiasts from all across the country.

What are you waiting for kids? Grab your bags and mark your calendars as we all prepare for this wonderful journey on December 14 to 17, 2015 at the La Virginia Leisure Park and Amusement Resort in Mataas na Kahoy, Batangas. We all hope to see you there!

For more information, feel free to contact the Philippine Society of Youth Science Clubs at (02) 332-8151 or send a message through mail@psysc.org. You may also visit them at www.psysc.org or like their page atwww.facebook.com/psysc.csiw.

Microsoft Partners with PLDT Home to bring you TVolution Stick

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Compared with computers, there are more people who own their own televisions all over the world. Thus, it is not surprising that there are innovations designed to maximize the use of the TV as an alternative medium to access the Internet, play games or work on documents.

Microsoft has partnered with PLDT Home to bring you TVolution Stick, a dongle-sized device which is similar to the previous Compute Stick from Intel that was designed to experience working on a fully-functional computer with your HDMI-ready television.

However, this device from Microsoft has Windows 10 and Office 365 bundled aside from letting users stream movies and videos, search the web, send and receive e-mails and other activities. It also allows you to multi-task since it has a quad processor in side that portable device.

Microsoft is said to continue innovating this product with robust and powerful broadband connection of up to 1 Gbps. Users can watch YouTube videos, browse the web, and check social media accounts on the big screen while lounging in the comforts of their bedroom or anywhere for that matter where there is a television.

Ciaz Revealed as Next Suzuki Car Model for Philippine Market

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It has been confirmed at a media thanksgiving held at the Hyve located at Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Tagig city on December 8, 2015, the Suzuki Ciaz, a quite larger than subcompact sedan, was revealed as the next car model to reach the Philippine market soon.

The announcement was personally shared by Shuzo Hoshikura, Suzuki Philippines General Manager before the media thanksgiving night ended.

They said the Ciaz was developed to replace the Suzuki SX4 Sedan in the Asian market. At one glance, you will realize just how big and wide the Ciaz is. According to an earlier report, the Maruti-made sedan has two powerplants: a 1.4-liter gasoline engine, and a 1.3-liter diesel mill. The gas engine generates 91hp and 130Nm, and the diesel version puts out 89hp and 200Nm.

Its elegant design creates a superior aesthetic appeal while its aerodynamic style adds a stunning effect to its looks.

The all-new Maruti Ciaz looks similar to that of the Honda City, Hyundai Verna and others in the C-segment. Having several best-in-class features, the Ciaz is one of the better looking Maruti Cars. With a claimed mileage of 26.21Km/l, the Ciaz is also a fuel-efficient vehicle.

Paul Cheng Scheduled to Fight Brandon Vera Instead of Chi Lewis-Parry

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Whatever happened to the supposed to be opponent of Brandon "The Truth" Vera? The One Championship fight night would now have a different match against Vera because of unclear reasons.

After multiple requests made by ONE directly to Chi Lewis-Parry and his manager over the last few weeks, Parry has failed to submit his medical results and his drug tests for the fight this Friday. Additionally, he decided not to board the plane departing from London to Manila.  He will not be fighting this Friday.

But do not worry because Vera's fight will continue as scheduled but against a different opponent. We are fortunate that someone immediately agreed to go against Vera with very little notice.

The next top HW contender, Paul Cheng will be stepping in for the World Championship fight against Brandon Vera.  Can China claim its first ever Heavyweight World Champion or will the hometown hero make it a storybook win for Filipinos?

ONE Championship’s CEO, Mr. Victor Cui also made a formal announcement on Facebook. Please click here to view his official statement.  

For more updates on ONE Championship™, please visit www.onefc.com and follow Twitter and Instagram @ONEFCMMA and Facebook at www.facebook.com/ONEFCMMA

One FC Fighters Vera, Striegl, Julaton Showcase Wares at Open Workout

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Just a few days ahead of ONE Championship’s annual year-end show in Manila, Philippines, Filipino Mixed Martial Arts superstars Brandon “The Truth” Vera, Mark “Mugen” Striegl and Ana “Hurricane” Julaton appeared at the KMA Fitness Gym in Makati to showcase their skills to invited media in an ‘open workout.’

The trio will represent the Philippines, along with a posse of local fighters, at ONE: SPIRIT OF CHAMPIONS, which takes place Friday, December 11 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

“I just can’t wait to kick his ass,” said Vera, who will be competing for the inaugural ONE Heavyweight World Championship against former English pro-basketball player, Chi “Chopper” Lewis-Parry.

“I’ve never been in shape like this. I’ve never been this big and my body fat has never been this low. My cardio’s never been this high. My confidence is through the roof with this,” Vera added.

“You need to train 1000% all the time -- 500% training and the other 500% you need to take care of your body.”

The life of a fighter is a long and arduous one, with countless nights spent in a sweltering gym, wailing away at leather, honing a craft that will be ultimately responsible for either victory or defeat.

Lazada Announces 3-day Grand Christmas Sale on December 10 to 12

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Have so many friends and loved ones to give gifts this holiday season but short of budget to buy for them all?
Get ready for discounts up to 95% as Lazada, a leading online shopping and selling destination, culminate its Online Revolution sale with a 3-day Grand Christmas Sale on December 10 to 12.

This was announced to members of the media during the Lazada Grand Christmas Sale Media Meeting held at the Makati Shangri-La hotel on December 7, 2015. Inanc Balci, Lazada CEO and co-founder, expressed his excitement for all the things lined up.

Starmobile CEO Ulysses Lao and Cherry Mobile's Lorraine Javalera were also present to share their support to the online retailer. Even Belo Essentials has special promos to all Lazada fans out there with 50% off and Buy 2 Get 1 Free promos.

The e-commerce giant will be offering new Shocking Deals, P12 Deals, and P99 Deals featuring limited quantities of popular branded items at half-price including an Apple iPad Mini 2 Retina (16GB), a hoverboard (one of the fads these days that even a telecom company has it) and a My View 40" Full HD LED TV.

DOST-ICT Office To Host P3 Award Philippine Ceremony

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The P3 Award Philippine Ceremony will be held on 11 December, 2015, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the DOST-ICT Office at CP Garcia Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City. The ceremony will be hosted by the ICT Office in recognition of the valuable contribution of our local partners in this initiative.

The “TV White Space (TVWS) Supported Fisherfolk Registration in the Danajon Reef” was a joint initiative of the Department of Science and Technology’s Information Communication Technology (ICT) Office, the USAID-supported Ecosystems Improved for Sustainable Fisheries (ECOFISH) Project of the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR), and Microsoft-Philippines. As a technology trial under the Smarter Philippines Program of the Philippine government, TV White Space—or unutilized broadcast frequencies—was used as a means to establish internet connectivity to support municipal fisherfolk registration or FishR in six pilot municipalities in Bohol over nine months.

The TVWS partnership became the recipient of this year’s P3 Impact Award held last October 2, 2015 in the Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York City. It bested more than 50 other applicants, including finalists from Coca-Cola, the Global Development Lab, Dow Chemical, and General Mills, which speaks of the exceptional impact that this partnership has made. The award was given by Concordia, the U.S. State Department, and the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business. The P3 Impact Award is considered a top honor in the arena of public-private partnership development.

New SRPs for Michelin Passenger Car Tires Released

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Michelin tires for passenger cars, SUV and light truckshave become more affordable with new suggested retail prices that came into effect starting October 1, 2015.

Vehicle owners are invited to visit the Retailer Locator on the Michelin Philippines local website (http://www.michelin.com.ph/Home/Buying-Guide/Find-Your-Dealer)to find the nearest retailer. New retail prices may vary per retailer of Michelin tires.

“Michelin cares about safety,first and foremost, Thanks to this initiative, we, through our partner-distributors in the country, are happy to make our tires more affordable for our Filipino consumers so they can experience firsthand what makes our tires different from the competition. Michelin tires deliver multiple benefits such as fuel saving and good handling, plus comfort and noise reduction, without ever sacrificing safety. Michelin is able to deliver all these through its extensive innovation coupled with research and development which are translated into Michelin Total Performance, which is our DNA,” said Michael Nunag, Chief Representative of Michelin Philippines.

Celebrate Christmas with Yeng Constantino, Up Dharma Down, and Various TV Celebs at Vermosa Holiday Escape

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Christmas is about bringing people together to savor the festive vibe and heartwarming glow of this season of giving. Vermosa, Ayala Land Inc.’s sprawling modern suburban community in Cavite that integrates healthy living with everyday life, holds Vermosa Holiday Escape, a fun-filled holiday bazaar that offers a much needed escape from the stressful shopping experience in the metro.

On December 12 and 13, experience the vibrant holiday cheer with musical treats from some of the country’s most talented musical artists. Providing live entertainment on December 12 are pop-rock best-selling artist Yeng Constantino and acoustic favorite Noel Cabangon while indie-rock band Up Dharma Down will bring the house down on December 13.

Adding more star power to Vermosa Holiday Escape are celebrity merchants led by Christine ‘Tintin’ Bersola-Babao. Shoppers can look forward to a wide range of products such as delectable and healthy Spanish-style bangus from Pinoy Big Brother winner Nene Tamayo, sandwiches and deli products from Donita Rose, skincare products from TV host and actress Gladys Reyes, curtains, bed sheets, linens and adobo from singer-comedienne Marissa Sanchez, and children’s clothes and shoes from award-winning singer-actress Vina Morales.

At its core, holiday bazaars bring families and friends together to bond. Vermosa Holiday Escape goes a step further by incorporating the importance of maintaining a balanced and active lifestyle into the whole gift scouting and giving exercise. At Vermosa Holiday Escape, shoppers will have a wide range of health and wellness items and services to choose from, including organic products, relaxing massage services, active lifestyle apparel and sporting goods. Online entrepreneurs will also sell their wares, offering a new platform to the holiday shopping menu.

Step Up N' Share: A Benefit Concert for Baby Suffering From Biliary Atresia

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Step Up Boy Band leads Step Up N' Share, an upcoming benefit concert for Johann Mikhail Urminita, a nine-month old baby suffering from Biliary Atresia. He needs to urgently undergo a costly liver transplant as soon as possible as it is the only permanent cure to his condition.

Biliary atresia is a serious liver disorder that occurs before or shortly after birth when a baby's bile ducts (the tubes that carry bile from the liver) become blocked. The body needs bile to aid digestion and carry wastes from the liver out of the body. When blocked ducts prevent bile from being excreted, the liver becomes damaged.

Step Up N' Share will be held on December 30 (Wednesday), 7PM at Selda Dos Music Bar, 389 Visayas Avenue, QC for P300 with one drink to help raise funds and awareness of this rare and yet life-threatening disease. In lieu of this, we invite you to be one of our media sponsors and help promote this event for a cause.

For more information on the event and the cause, you may contact 09955181345 and https://www.facebook.com/HopeforJohann/.

PNP Awards Bus Hero Lady Cop with "Medalya ng Kagalingan"

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Recognition has always been the prime motivator for everyone. Even just a pat in the back, or a sincere smile to acknowledge appreciation of a good deed, is rewarding enough. The moment becomes extra special if you are given a symbol of the accomplishment that will serve as a memorable reminder of the day. The day would be super awesome if you are honored infront of your peers or colleagues especially if that momentous day is even announced to the whole word.

We salute officers of the law for doing their job well. They really do deserve to be recognized to inspire others to follow their ways. It is so difficult to keep a sane and soulful spirit especially if you are tempted to just keep yourself out of harms way. Being a police officer requires you to risk your life but the compensation is a bit demeaning to act like a super hero. Getting yourself involved in a dangerous situation requires accepting the fact that you may get killed doing your duty.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) led by Chief Director General Ricardo C Marquez honored PO1 Judy Ann Dizon De Villa and 14 Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) personnel during the traditional flag-raising ceremony at the PNP National Headquarters, Camp Crame, Quezon City.

PO1 Judy Ann Dizon De Villa, a police officer who singlehandedly foiled an armed robbery on board a passenger bus along EDSA-Cubao, was awarded the "Medalya ng Kagalingan" for her heroic act in responding to a call of duty by foiling a robbery/hold-up incident inside a passenger bus traversing along EDSA/ Cubao, Quezon City last December 1.

“PO1 De Villa manifested her commitment to the call of duty to serve and protect which earned distinct honor and credit not only for herself but also for the Philippine National Police” said PDG Marquez.

National Energy Consciousness Month: Promoting Energy Resiliency

Wazzup Pilipinas!

With the Philippines being one of the most vulnerable countries to disasters, the Department of Energy (DOE) is pushing “Energy Resiliency for Sustainable Growth” for the National Energy Consciousness Month (NECM).

On the average, about 19 typhoons hit the Philippines every year, which also consequently bring about flash floods, storm surges, and landslides. The country, which lies within the Pacific Ring of Fire, is also prone to earthquakes.

It is in this light that for 2015, the government, through the DOE, is aggressivelypursuing the thrust to ensure resiliency of energy systems not only in the Philippines but alsoamong neighboring and trading nations around the world, in international conventions,such as the ASEAN Ministers Energy Meeting in Malaysia, Singapore Energy Week, and the 21st Conference of the Parties in Paris. The DOE also led the hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 12th Energy Ministers’ Meeting (EMM12) held last October 12-14 in Cebu in which member economies committed to build energy resilient communities to sustain growth.

“Calamities do not only impede continuous flow of energy, but have a larger impact to economic growth and stability,” Energy Secretary Zenaida Y. Monsada said.

25 Things We Have Learned From Philippine Real Estate In 2015

Wazzup Pilipinas!

It goes without saying that 2015 is looking to be quite a good year for Philippine real estate. Although condo sales were not on par with what was recorded in 2012 (considered a banner year for Metro Manila’s condo market), other segments of the industry are posting stellar growth, particularly houses and office real estate. Lamudi Philippines (www.lamudi.com.ph) looked into its 2015 data and compiled a list of key observations that, hopefully, will guide the industry through years to come.

1. If you want a cheap condo, look at Las Piñas

At a Php 49,849 per square meter, buying a condo in Las Piñas is likely to be cheaper than anywhere else in the metro. At the opposite end of the scale, Makati is the most expensive, with condos in the area costing an average of Php139,012 per sqm. This means that a 60-sqm condo in Las Piñas will set a buyer back Php2.99 million, while the same in Makati will cost Php8.34 million.

2. 59% of houses for sale in Makati are worth more than Php100 million

It goes without saying that Makati is the Philippines’ priciest city to buy any type of real estate. In fact, Lamudi data shows that 59 percent of all listed properties in the city in the first quarter of 2015—most of them in swanky neighborhoods and exclusive communities—have asking prices of more than Php100 million.

3. Outside Metro Manila, Cebu City tops the pricy list

In the Queen City of the South, half of all listed houses for sale are priced Php8.5 million and up, making is the most expensive housing market outside Metro Manila. In fact, some homes here are fetching as high as Php150 million, rivaling opulent houses in Ayala Alabang and San Juan’s Greenhills Village.

Pokemon Go: Augmented Reality Game for Mobile Phones

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I’m bursting with excitement! Ever since I learned of this I was freaking out already! I have been pretty stoked for this app to come out. I have loved Pokemon Japanese anime and video games since I was small. I have always watched anime since I was small. I have watched and played every Pokemon game and show. I have been a Pokemon fan my whole life since it came out on 1996. 

I have played 1st generation Pokemon games to now and have found it amazing how far it has gone. It started out small and grew into a popular game that has so far, stood the test of time. Good job Nintendo on how far it has gone. 

From the Sino region to the Kalos region. I have played Pokemon black, black 2,white, white 2, x, y, heartgold, silver, and platinum. From Pokemon Yellow to Pokemon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire. This is how much I will always love Pokemon. Pokemon Go is a dream come true, I’m sure everyone has wanted to go on their own Pokemon journey.

Pokémon Go will be available in 2016 for iOS and Android — 20 years after the original Pokémon games. The game will be free to play, with various in-app purchases available. A price for the Pokémon Go Plus watch hasn't been set.

Pokémon Go is an upcoming augmented reality game for mobile phones developed by Niantic, Inc., scheduled to be released in 2016 for iOS and Android devices.The game will be released alongside the Pokémon Go Plus, a small wearable device developed by Nintendo, which uses a Bluetooth connection to notify users when a Pokémon is nearby with an LED and a light rumble.The game allows players to capture, battle, train and trade virtual Pokémon who appear throughout the real world.The game is free to play although it supports in app purchases.

Imeldifique Cooking Wine Launched by Destileria Limtuaco

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Destileria Limtuaco Co., Inc. (DLCI), a leader in the Philippine liquor industry with 163 years of blending and distilling expertise, launches the “Imeldifique" a cooking wine made with all-Ilocano ingredients and produced in collaboration with the provincial government of Ilocos Norte. The launch was held on December 1, 2015 at Victorino’s located in in Quezon City.

Present at the event were Destileria Limtuaco & Co., Inc.’s President, Olivia Limpe-Aw, Ilocos Norte Governor Imee Marcos, Ilocos Sur Vice Governor Deogracias Victor “DV” Savellano, Ilocos Norte 2nd District Congresswoman Imelda R. Marcos and former Ilocos Sur Governor Chavit Singson.

The cooking wine originated when Gov. Imee Marcos approached DLCI‘s Olivia Limpe-Aw during the International Food Exhibition (IFEX) 2015 after spotting the company’s product, Vigan Basi, and asked if Olivia could also come up with a product for Ilocos Norte.

Olivia considered it and formulated a cooking wine idea using sorghum spirit as a base. Sorghum is endemic to the region and is also distilled into what is known in China as Baijiu (Kaoliang Jiu in Taiwan). She then infused the spirit with native Ilocano garlic, onions and salt to get our Philippine ginisa or sauté flavor that we love. Imeldifique will be the first cooking wine from the north incorporating distinct Ilocano flavors.

Air Supply 40th Anniversary Tour: Live in Manila at The Theater of Solaire

Wazzup Pilipinas!

This December, Grand Leisure Corporation is bringing back one of Philippines' most beloved foreign acts of all time, Air Supply! The Australian soft-rock duo guitarist Graham Russel and lead vocalist Russel Hitchcock, are coming back for a special two-night performance in Manila and in Davao City!

Don't miss Air Supply 40th Anniversary Tour: Live in Manila on December 7, 2015 at The Theatre of Solaire Resort and Casino and on December 9, 2015 at the SMX Convention Center in Lanang, Davao!

Expect a massive sing-along atmosphere on these nights as they sing all of their chart-topping hits like "I'm All Out of Love", "Every Woman in the World", "I Can Wait Forever", "Even The Nights are Better", "Now and Forever", and the all-age hit - thanks to the TV series "The Wedding Band" and "Making Love Out of Nothing At All".

Our very own premier vocal group, The Company, will also be performing with Air Supply. The original members of The Company were all alumni of the Ateneo Glee Club. Their present members are Moy Ortiz and Annie Quintos (the only remaining original members), Cecille Bautista, Sweet Plantado, and OJ Mariano. The group is also celebrating their 30th anniversary this year.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/airsupply40thanniversaryph

Off With Their Heads: Chasing Pageviews and Rolling Heads

Wazzup Pilipinas!

So what really happened to the "metro guide" which blatantly boasts of millions of impressions? Are they no longer after quality content but are really only "chasing pageviews?" Maybe they believe posting rehashed trending and viral articles is what people perceive as the primary factor to be called the number one online site in the country. Are they really sacrificing content just to remain on the top of the numbers game?

Just like other sites which boasts of millions of page views or a lot of so-called impressions, the only reason is because they publish sensationalized and intriguing stories that only aims to attract curiosity and attention but are in no way beneficial to anybody except the rumor-mongerers or chismis-savvy nothing-better -to-do readers who have too much time access to online networks like blogs and social media.

I hate to say it but, what good are the sites for advertisers or brand/company owners/marketing peeps if the readers are visiting because they were lured by the tabloid-like stories that originated from the many corners of the Internet. The readers visit because they were tricked into reading the gossips so they are not really paying attention to the other articles which aim to promote their respective products and services.

Online publications do these similar stuff to increase their hits so they can publicly announce their rising page views but we should know for a fact that people were just enticed by the click-bait stories.

Sorry Na Lang Po But We Love Our Perks and Freebies

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Some people have made blogging into a business, well at least - an extension or source of income, so please do not judge if they value some form of compensation like perks, tokens or freebies. Not all are blessed with enough money in their pockets, or other forms of generating funds, to sustain their means of living.

Every little reward or complimentary gift in any form, is appreciated because we have to accept the fact that everything in this world now comes with a price. If we want to drink clean water, we have to buy the distilled kind. If we want to be more comfortable in our homes, we have to install an airconditioning unit. Needless to say, if we want to continue posting articles in our blogs, we have to pay our electricity and Internet bills, others would have to rent from computer shops.

To expect to receive something for our effort should be recognized as something normal because our "life as a good man" would seem senseless if we will not be rewarded for our good deeds. Just as how a song says Santa only gives gifts to the "nice" and "sorry na lang po" to the "naughty" ones, you are lying if you say you do not appreciate the "gifts" handed over to you.

You must be living a lonely and miserable life if you believe bloggers who appreciate perks and freebies are the lowest of the low. You probably have not experienced how it feels being recognized or pampered for a job well done, or being motivated to do a good job. Even as kids, we were offered to receive rewards if we get good grades or do our chores and errands well. Not entirely as a bribe, but as a means to also show affection for the accomplishment.

Cavite: Still a Selfie-Centric Sunday with the AAP-Petron Cavite Drive-Tour Caravan

Wazzup Pilipinas!

A day in Cavite is not enough for a determined and curious traveler so the AAP-Petron Cavite Drive-Tour Caravan made it into a two-day event so that we could explore more sights, and taste, of Cavite. After all, it's actually themed as a culinary and farm expedition which meant experiencing the healthier choices of food.

Still armed with my trusted mobile-photography-empowered smartphone that comes with its own color-coordinated selfie stick thanks to myPhone, we continue with day two of our selfie-centric drive-tour around Cavite.

Though half of the last part of the day was devoted to buying "pasalubong" at some of the popular stores, it was still part of immersing the participants to what Cavite offers. Bringing something home from a trip has always been a well-loved Filipino custom that many appreciates.

The day began with a hearty buffet breakfast at Days Hotel - our temporary home for the night dedicated for sleeping, or some would have spent it chatting overnight with new-found friends while drinking beer, and had to sleep on the wee hours of the morning, before waking up again for the 7:30 breakfast schedule and departure of 9:30 am.

The Fuzzy Wires of Clemente Cobaria

Wazzup Pilipinas!

He was just one of the attendees of a recent book launch that I covered for my blog. A few minutes before the actual event, I was surprised when he approached the author and handed over something like a bunch of colorful wires which we later realized creatively depicted the name of the said author.

The author was grateful of the "gift" and thanked the guy. He then noticed the lettering or design on the shirt I was wearing and boasted that he can also imitate the design. I suggested he just make one illustrating my name instead, but then quickly changed my mind and requested for my blog's name of Wazzup Pilipinas.

I sort of suggested I could blog about him because he was really a bit interesting for being aggressive in sharing his creations amidst the book launch crowd of which he even created a "Welcome" sign incorporated with a pen holder plus a pen as well as another gift for the registration table. He immediately agreed to my proposal and created a Wazzup Pilipinas version for me.

According to this generous 65 year-old man, he already patented the creation he called something like "sintas."  I maybe wrong with the name but he had several rolls of it available in different color hues inside his bag. He can easily twist the colorful fuzzy wires to form letters evolving into words. He did say he was already featured in some TV shows, and maybe some publications. Thus, I am honored to be the very first blogger to feature him after this accidental meet.