2016-02-14 ~ Wazzup Pilipinas News and Events

Saturday, February 20, 2016

History’s Hit Drama Series ‘Vikings’ Returns For Season Four

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HISTORY’s hit drama series “Vikings” is back for a gripping fourth season led by Travis Fimmel, star of the upcoming film Warcraft. It premiered last week and can be seen every Friday, at 9:00pm (same day telecast as the U.S.) on History Channel. The network has added four episodes to its initial 16 episode order. Since its premiere, a new episode will air every Friday for ten weeks with the remaining episodes to air later in the year.

Season three culminated with the extraordinary battle in Paris, where Ragnar (Fimmel) seized victory from the jaws of defeat – but still returns to Kattegat dangerously ill. Thoughts of his death galvanize the forces who seek to succeed him as king, including his wife Queen Aslaug (Alyssa Sutherland) and his oldest son, Bjorn (Alexander Ludwig). Meanwhile, Lagertha (Katheryn Winnick) continues power struggles with her calculating, former second in command, Kalf (Ben Robson); Rollo (Clive Standen) betrays his Vikings heritage by remaining in Frankia and Floki (Gustaf Skarsgård) is seized for his brutal actions to the Christian priest Athelstan.

Joining the stellar cast this season is Peter Franzén (The Gunman) as “King Harold Finehair,” a complex character who seeks to be King of Norway and a potential threat to Ragnar; Jasper Pääkkönen (Jet Trash) as “Halfdan The Black,” King Harold’s violent younger brother; and Dianne Doan (“Descendants”) as “Yidu,” a completely different character within the world of the Vikings who fascinates Ragnar.

“Vikings” is the critically acclaimed series from creator and sole writer Michael Hirst (Academy Award® winning film Elizabeth and the Emmy® and Golden Globe® nominated series “The Tudors”) and is a family saga that tells the remarkable tales of the lives and epic adventures of the raiders and explorers of the Dark Ages.

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The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) is another step closer to completing the first new train set to be added to the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) system, as the assembly of the second and third new light rail vehicles (LRVs) begins tonight at the Taft Avenue Station in Pasay City.

The two (2) LRVs arrived in Manila on February 17, and are part of the 48 new coaches procured under the DOTC-MRT3 capacity expansion project, which will increase the railway's capacity to over 800,000 daily passengers.

Once testing of the coaches is completed, the new train set will begin running for public use before April 2016.

Traffic Advisory

The public and motorists are advised to expect heavier traffic in the vicinity of the MRT-3 Taft Avenue station from 5 PM today until 12 NN tomorrow, as one lane — the innermost lane on the EDSA southbound side — will be closed to ensure the safety of motorists near the site.

Assembly works will principally take place during the MRT-3's non-operating hours, so as to cause the least possible disturbance to train riders, commuters, and motorists from tonight until tomorrow morning.

Michelin Announced as Title Sponsor of Australian GP

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Having become the official FIM MotoGP™ World Championship tyre supplier in 2016, Michelin extend their involvement in the MotoGP™ category as they become the title sponsor of the Australian GP.

The Michelin Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix will take place on the 23rd of October and is always a fan favourite. The Phillip Island circuit was first part of the Grand Prix calendar in 1989 and has produced some of the most incredible races in recent decades. 2015 produced a particularly unforgettable battle as four riders swapped positions for the win.

Bibendum, the Michelin Man, will of course be in attendance at the Michelin Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix with further signage throughout the circuit. This agreement further emphasises the dedication of Michelin to the MotoGP™ championship, the Australian GP one of the most popular races amongst fans and riders.

The Phillip Island circuit will push the new Michelin tyres to their limits as MotoGP™ riders race down the Gardner Straight and into Doohan Corner with speeds reaching almost 350 km/h down the straight. With extensive testing having already been performed there is little doubt the French built tyres will once again help to producing jaw dropping action.

Globe Art Gallery Features Comrades in Clay as First Exhibit for 2016

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The photo above shows Globe Chief Human Resource Officer Renato Jiao (left) leads ribbon cutting for the launching Comrades in Clay, feature the works of clay masters Jon & Tessy Pettyjohns and their potter friends. With Jiao is Jon Pettyjohn.

As its first exhibit for 2016, the Globe Art Gallery is featuring Comrades in Clay, which highlights the ceramics creation of husband and wife Jon and Tessy Pettyjohn, along with their potter friends.

Jon and Tessy Pettyjohn have been teaching pottery since the late 70s. Through their commitment they have converted many pottery enthusiasts into serious potters, long after their pottery school closed. Their workshop continues to welcome those interested in working with clay.

In recent years, many Pettyjohns’s students meet at least once a month in Pansol to get their “clay fix”. During these “pot sessions”, they get high from kneading, slabbing, throwing and trimming the clay, as well as in glazing their bisque pots. Each month, they come back with eager anticipation almost akin to parent-to-be’s anxieties on how their glazed pots will finally come out of the kiln. Every Christmas season, they try to get together for Raku firing and “exchange pots”.

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Last January 14, 2016, President Benigno Aquino III released a veto message in response to House Bill No. 5842 which proposed a Php2,000 across-the-board increase on the SSS pension. Around two million Filipino pensioners would have benefitted from the approval of this bill.

However, a Php 2,000 increase will cut the fund life of the SSS by 13 years, according to SSS officers Marissu Bugante and George Ongkeko Jr. This means that those who will be retiring after 2029 could have faced the risk of receiving no pension at all.

The highest monthly pension an employee can receive is around Php 13,000; the lowest being Php 1,200. The Php 2,000 hike will be beneficial to pensioners but even the highest monthly pension won’t serve as a sustainable retirement fund if you take into consideration the inflation rate in the country.

SSS pension serves as extended financial assistance. It is not meant to be a person’s entire retirement fund. As early as now, it is best for Filipinos to look for multiple streams to fund their retirement. Here are 3 income supplements to SSS pensions:

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"Twitter launched its #TwitterCity PH in the Philippines, the first in the Asia Pacific region, at the Mind Museum located at Bonifacio Global City in Taguig to thank its local community of users, partners and advertisers for their support. The Philippines was one of Twitter’s fastest growing markets in 2015 with millions of Filipinos using Twitter as an essential part of their national, cultural and everyday moments."

Mabuhay to @ralfonsi, @alizaknox, @rsjaitly and @mainedcm who officially opened the very first in Asia #TwitterCityPH, The #BuhayTwitter hashtag was trending during the press conference especially after the many photo ops, selfies, and groupfies that we made at the TwitterCityPH. pic.twitter.com/RHsb4J5kZY

I asked almost everyone to shout the iconic Wazzup Pilipinas shout-out on video so I can later create a compilation of my many videos and photos taken at the presscon. Everyone was willing and accommodating because most Filipinos are really basically socially expressive in nature. This is probably the reason how we amazed the world with the AlDub phenomenon that rocked Twitter with a 41 million plus tweets.

Twitter Philippines (@TwitterPH) is the official account of Twitter in the Philippines. They don't have a local office yet in the country but I believe it will be soon the next move of the Twitter team as all of the Twitter peeps namely Aliza Knox, VP Online Sales for APAC and LATAM, Rishi Jaitly, Vice President of Media for Asia Pacific & Middle East and Richard Alfonsi, VP for Global Online Sales, and was joined by a life-sized standee of Maine Mendoza of the global phenomenon AlDub.

New Western Digital Prosumer NAS Storage Gives Creative Pros the Power to Multi-Task and Easily Share Files

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Western Digital Corporation, a world leader in connected storage solutions, today updated its prosumer solutions with My Cloud EX2 Ultra, a high-performance, two-bay network attached storage (NAS) system. The My Cloud EX2 Ultra NAS is designed from the ground up for creative professionals and prosumers that need to automatically sync content across computers, easily share files and folders and enjoy multiple backup options so they can create their own personalized digital library with ease.

“We know our My Cloud users, especially creative professionals, need comprehensive solutions as digital storage needs continue to soar as well as the need for ongoing streaming capability,” said Jim Welsh, executive vice president, WD Branded Products. “With the My Cloud EX2 Ultra, creative professionals are able to combine high performance with multi-tasking optimization and data protection to create a NAS system that simplifies their workflow and provides peace-of-mind.”

My Cloud EX2 Ultra has been upgraded with a powerful 1.3 GHz dual-core processor enabling users to get ultra-fast transfer rates for high performance and smooth video streaming. Users also have access to 1 GB of DDR3 memory, allowing them to multitask with ease and leverage applications for HD media streaming, surveillance and much more. Several data management and security features allow users to select a preferred method for managing and protecting their movies, photos, music and digital files. Drive management options include RAID 0, RAID 1; JBOD and spanning modes, while data protection options include NAS to NAS, USB, cloud or LAN/WAN backup. The My Cloud EX2 Ultra NAS comes preconfigured in RAID 1 mode to help protect data right from the start and is easily configurable into other data protection modes.

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Home Credit Philippines, a global consumer finance company, brings an exciting new offer for those seeking to buy OPPO’s latest smartphone, the OPPO F1. Through installments provided by Home Credit, customers may purchase an OPPO F1 at 0% interest rate and even without a credit card starting from February 19, 2016, until March 31, 2016.

The OPPO F1, which retails at P11,990, was recently launched by global electronics and technology service provider OPPO with the support of Home Credit Philippines and OPPO’s first local ambassador, Sarah Geronimo.

In partnership with OPPO, Home Credit makes shopping for the OPPO F1 affordable and convenient. To apply for a loan, a customer needs to present at least two IDs and an initial cash payment. The loan is approved in less than 30 minutes, and the customer may leave the shop with the purchased good in less than an hour. The payment term is 6 months, with a monthly payment of as low as ₱1,299, based on 35 percent initial cash payment.

The OPPO F1 features a premium metal body with velvety metallic feel; a 5-inch 2.5D-arc-edge screen protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 4; and a 13-megapixel camera. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 616 octa-core processor with 3GB of RAM and 16 GB of storage, which you can extend up to 128GB. But an even more important advantage of the phone is its 8-megapixel front camera, which allows for taking amazing beautified selfies.

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Aquabest the country's premier water station franchise is reaching out to its local community by opening a soup kitchen for indigent people.

Every Friday afternoon the company operates a soup kitchen dispensing hot meals to the poor at its head office along Quezon Avenue. Since it started operating this February, the soup kitchen regularly serves dozens of underprivileged people.

The soup kitchen is part of the company's efforts to give back to society and is a reflection of the Christian values that underpin the company's operations. "As a company we have to strive to make a positive influence in our community. And our efforts here however small can help our underprivileged brethren that other people still care about them" says Carson Tan the company's President and CEO.

PH Fastest-Growing Market in Asia for Use of Mobile Forms in Enterprises, SMEs - Canvas CEO James Quigley

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As the first and exclusive distributor of Canvas in the country, Globe Telecom sees rapid digital shift among enterprises, SMEs with paperless forms for increased productivity

The Philippines is the fastest-growing market in Asia for the use of Canvas, the revolutionary cloud-based software service that empowers enterprises to collect, share and integrate information using mobile devices, according to its CEO James Quigley, who recently came to Manila for a visit.

Globe Telecom, through its IT-Enabled Services Group (IG), launched Canvas as its first and exclusive distributor in the Philippines in late 2014. As a result of the partnership, enterprise and small and medium-sized business (SMB) customers of Globe were able to discover the potential of mobile devices by shifting key business processes from paper forms to dynamic mobile apps with functionalities.

“Philippine enterprises are now finding ways to achieve operational efficiency for sustainable business results through information and communications technology (ICT), and we at Globe are pleased to enable their goals with our roster of innovative solutions, and one of which is Canvas,” shares Globe Senior Advisor for Enterprise and IT-Enabled Services Group Mike Frausing. “As the shift to a more digital enterprise landscape grows, we at Globe, through our partnerships with global companies like Canvas, are more than equipped to offer our enterprise clientele solutions that transform and scale up their business for the future.”

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A few days ago, Oracle announced on their blog that they plan to kill the Java browser plugin in their next major version of JDK, scheduled for release in Q1 2017.

What does this mean? Should we worry about our browsing experience?

This really just means that it won’t be possible to run Java applets in the browser anymore. The infamous “applet” is a technology that was developed by Sun Microsystems in the 90’s and went on to be acquired by Oracle.

This technology was still popular in many exploit kits over the last two years but in the last year alone we saw a sudden shift where kits removed Java support in favor of embedding more Adobe Flash exploits and direct browser exploits.

So, for an average user, the impact of this sudden passing will be pretty minimal. Most average users might not realize that the majority of web browsers have already done away with support for the API needed to run the Java plugin.

For business users that still need to run Java in the browser, Oracle is advising that you move to a plugin-free technology like java Web Start. Note, the existing applets will not only need to be switched but it will require new porting.

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The Department of Transportation and Communications’ (DOTC) push to modernize the country’s public utility bus (PUB) system reaches another milestone today with the launch of new buses for the Point-to-Point (P2P) Bus Service featuring a technology-enabled and Persons with Disability (PWD)-friendly design.

“PWDs, senior citizens, and pregnant women will begin enjoying the convenience and comfort of this new class of city buses, which improve accessibility with low floors and foldable ramps. We are ridding our streets of dilapidated, poorly-maintained, and unsuitable buses. Eventually, this will push all PUBs to modernize,” said DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya.

These high-quality, high-capacity buses will boast of the following features:

Low floor height
Hydraulic kneeling function to allow tilting towards the pavement
Retractable or foldable boarding and alighting ramp
Tap-and-go card payment system
Global positioning system (GPS) devices
On-board close-circuit television (CCTV) cameras
Free wifi

Telcos View: San Miguel’s Control of 700 MHz Spectrum Seen as ‘Anti-competitive’

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Local telecommunications companies have described as ‘anti-competition’ San Miguel Corporation’s hold over the entire 700 MHz band, reiterating calls for the frequency to be equitably distributed in a transparent manner among existing operators and new entrants.

Both PLDT and Globe Telecom have, since 2008 and 2005 respectively, repeatedly requested for an allocation of the 700 MHz frequency from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), which to date has not acted on these applications. The two companies stressed the need to distribute the unused frequency to help bridge the gap in Internet speeds between the Philippines and other countries in the region.

“What is anti-competitive is the present situation where San Miguel controls the entire 700 MHz band, as well as substantial unutilized chunks of radio spectrum in other frequency bands through various corporations,” said PLDT and Smart Communications Head of Public Affairs Ramon Isberto in a letter to the Manila Times.

“Our position on this matter has been consistent. Since 2008, we have asked that the 700-MHz radio frequency band be reassigned from broadcast TV to mobile telephony and the said frequency be equitably distributed in a transparent manner among existing operators and new entrants,” reiterates Isberto in the said letter published last week.

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Craving for a posh yet value for money smartphone that perfectly fits in your hand? Look no further because Flash—one of Asia’s up and coming lifestyle and smart device developer makes the Mica White version of the bestselling Flash 2 available in select stores in nationwide.

The Flash 2 smartphone, which was launched Q4 of 2015, is one of the hottest t-selling product in Southeast Asia because of its powerful camera features and superior performance. In fact, the first batch of the Flash 2 was sold out in just ten minutes after its launch.

The Flash 2 smartphone is ergonomically designed to give you access to all useful applications using just one hand. It’s curved back and contoured sides give balance to the phone, preventing unwanted slips when in use.

Furthermore, the Flash 2 is equipped with an LED flash autofocus front camera that makes it your professional selfie tool when going outdoors or when staying at home. With its 25 percent larger sensor size and 27 percent bigger pixel size, the phone is ready for all kinds of lighting conditions—all set for your selfie-worthy moments.

Aside from its enhanced selfie-taking features, the new Flash 2 has an even powerful main back camera that gives you the advantage of capturing your own view of the world. Capture the images just the way you see and experience them, or tweak them according to your own demands by using its enhanced photography creative tools. You can test your mobigraphy skills in manual settings, shoot time lapse videos and capture panoramic scenes using the front camera.

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As part of its commitment to help build a digital nation, Globe Telecom is expanding the reach of its nationwide digital solutions caravan for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through its SME arm Globe myBusiness as it holds the 3rd Globe myBusiness Day in Batangas City.

Globe myBusiness has been working relentlessly with local government units (LGUs) nationwide to bring one of the country’s much-awaited ground fairs for existing and aspiring SMEs to help them learn the ropes of entrepreneurship in the digital age.

Now on its 3rd installment in Batangas with previous roll-outs in Cauayan, Isabela and Davao City, the Globe myBusiness Day caravan is a one-stop exhibit for entrepreneurs, allowing SMEs to explore new business opportunities, find new ways to increase their revenues, discover new solutions to stay competitive in the digital age, meet and be inspired by successful entrepreneurs and get great deals from suppliers to save on costs through showcase of the latest digital solutions, insightful speaker discussions, and interactive display of booths from participating SMEs.

Aside from showcasing its portfolio of offerings, Globe myBusiness is also bringing RJ Ledesma, co-founder of Mercato Centrale Food Market and Anthony Pangilinan, Chairman of Chief Disturber of Businessworks, Inc. to share tips and tricks to help make businesses better.

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"You know why Manny Pacquiao's statement is so offensive? Because it hit the nail on the head. It is just so on point that it is so hard to prove wrong.

He was like asking:

How did animals (who have no reasoning) came up to have better understanding than people when it comes to this matter?

Yes we have to respect each others' opinions; opinions do not usually have right or wrong answers.

The answers to "Which is better, hot or cold coffee?" "a condo or a house and lot?" "sports car or SUV" are opinions that we should respect.

Now, if someone disapproves Manny's statement, you have to give us more than just "I am offended!"

PROVE HIM WRONG USING PROPER REASONING

Explain why same-sex marriage is essential. What can it contribute to make this world a better place to live in? Why homosexuality is not immoral? That's how we fight for our rights.

We still have much love for LGBTs despite this being outrageous.

I'm not for Manny nor for LGBTs... I'm for the truth." - Josh Martinez

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10 brands. 10 artists. One show. Immerse yourself in the Manila X Experience!

Manila X Festival is coming this June 2016 merging fashion and music into the grandest festival yet.

Highlighting today's youth, they are focusing on three millennial cultures namely fashion, music and shopping, and celebrating each one with this one of a kind event.

The Manila X Experience or #ManilaXperience was born from this generation's young, innovative and versatile idea of fun. The festival will capture diversity, accessibility, and creativity.

Jacob Benedicto hosted the Manila X Festival preview event held at the Palace Pool Club at Bonifacio Global City on February 16, 2016. He introduced John Lozano, the visionary behind the festival, who gave a few words that night, then Kiana Valenciano performed a song number followed by several models showing off their stuff on stage. All the while, DJ Marc Marasigan pumping his mighty music setting the mood for the night.

The vision of Manila X is to be an avenue for exposure and opportunities for the top brands and talents of the country.Making music, fashion and shopping open to all, they are expecting at least 10,000 attendees from all over the region. It will be a celebration of each and everyone's individuality and the place of newfound ties.

Be part of the revolutionary experience on June 3 and 4 at Globe Circuit Event Grounds!

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"Imma let you finish but..." History almost repeated itself when Taylor Swift triumphed over Kendrick Lamar for The Grammys' Album of the Year!

Taylor Swift's “1989” wins album of the year, and also took home the best pop vocal album and best music video awards.

Meghan Trainor wins best new artist, while Ed Sheeran won his first two Grammys for song of the year for "Thinking Out Loud." and best pop solo performance!

However, Kendrick Lamar, with 11 nominations in 9 categories, took home 5 prizes over all. Kendrick Lamar wins for "To Pimp a Butterfly." Does that make him the overall grand winner of the Grammys?

Taylor Swift win is a victory that probably has hip-hop fans howling. Some were disappointed that Taylor Swift won for best album over Kendrick Lamar, Alabama Shakes or The Weeknd. I don't think many agreed with the Grammys choice for album of the year, and rarely for best new artist. Some say it seems to be always some bland album/artist.

For all of you into rap and hip/hop, I feel your pain. Real Rock and Roll has rarely won, punk never won, it's usually some corporate album, nothing innovative or controversial.

Taylor Swift became the first woman to ever win The Grammys album of the year twice, and wasted little time before firing back at Kanye West by saying "There will be people along the way who will try to undercut your success, or take credit for your accomplishments or your fame. But if you just focus on the work and you don’t let those people sidetrack you, someday when you get where you’re going, you’ll look around and you’ll know that it was you and the people who love you that put you there, and that will be the greatest feeling in the world."

With her acceptance speech, it felt like the first time we’ve truly seen the real Taylor Swift, at least at an award show. She ended it with the perfect mic drop — "Thank you for this moment."

Deadpool: Movie Review with Lots of Spoilers! (Sorry! I'm Bad!)

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"Things to love about Deadpool: The wit, the BLADES, the scriptwriting, the atomic wedgies, the things that go boom. This movie is a keeper." - Alma Anonas-Carpio

Deadpool, how do we love thee, lets us count the ways. Here are what people say about the Deadpool in his debut movie! 1. We love you peeing by the pole. 2. We love your Deadpool poster. 3. We love you playing pool. 4. We love you playing a fighting game 5. We love you passed out. 6. We love you bar dancing. 7. We love you tending bar. 8. We love you sitting at the bar. 9. We love you losing at solitaire. 10. We don't love that there is no Deadpool on the ceiling.

The movie was beyond awesome! Undoubtedly the best Marvel movie so far. My stomach hurts from laughing. These guys killed it. Tim Miller's Deadpool is a bit different from the comics but in a good way. Now other superhero movies need to step up their game. They have to meet this level of awesomeness or just become meh superhero movies! Pass the Chimichangas and make way, a new King has arrived!

Ryan Reynolds did an awesome job on this movie. I loved it and how he picked fun at the X-Men movies. There were so many quips, puns, future hashtags and past movie references I could not stop laughing. Bueller gives two thumbs way up! "It's a big house, it's funny that I only ever see you two around, it's like.... the studio can't afford another X-man" Lol! Definitely lives up to the hype. Love it so much!

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LoveYourself, Inc., an HIV and AIDS awareness advocacy group, has started the operations of its new HIV testing clinic and community center today (February 17) which is located along Taft-Buendia in Pasay City dubbed as LoveYourself Uni.

The new clinic reinforces the group's effort in providing free and confidential HIV testing and counseling, and promoting safer sex practices to curb the exploding HIV epidemic among men who have sex with men (MSMs) with 6.1 or 61 per 1000 person-years based on its old Malate clinic data from 2012-2015.

On a per age group data, clients ages 15-22 reached an 8.5 incidences, 23-28 have 5.6 incidences, and 29 years old and above have 4.8 incidences.

LoveYourself Executive Director Vinn Pagtakhan emphasized that "new intervention is needed" to augment the previous initiatives from all wellness and sexual health defenders.

This is why the clinic has a youthful vibe, wherein there are five counseling rooms, one function room and a larger reception area with larger holding capacity for clients who wish to avail of the free services LoveYourself is offering.

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"I'm sorry for hurting people by comparing homosexuals to animals. Please forgive me for those I've hurt. I still stand on my belief that I'm against same sex marriage because of what the Bible says, but I'm not condemning LGBT. I love you all with the love of the Lord. God Bless you all and I'm praying for you." - Manny Pacquiao

Why say sorry if that's what you believe in. Don't say it's a wrong choice of words. You can't argue on that premise since you said it in the vernacular. I would have believed you if you said it in English.

But due to the scrutiny of the people, especially the netizens who are always online, you retract on your words and try to calm everyone down by saying sorry and going against your true personality.

"He is saying what he believes in. The problem is, our society has really been open to gay and lesbian marriage. He will judged upon his beliefs alone. I do believe that if a person is in the public eye. They should keep strong beliefs like that to themselves. This way it wouldn't have uprooted all this craziness. I'm following Mayweather on Facebook too. There is a definite difference of character, morals, and values between Manny and him. If you want to judge chcek Mayweather's page. He will show you all the money he makes and rub it in your face. Manny is a God fearing man and loves his family. Please forgive his thoughts. There is far worst in the world." - Denee Ezerins-Santibanez

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The Philippines has been ranked third in Southeast Asia and 16th worldwide for having the most number of internet users, making Filipino owners of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) more aggressive in competing in the e-commerce industry. But can these booming enterprises be up to par with more established ones?

With the country’s high penetration rate and rising social media usage, there is no doubt that these up-and-coming businesses will be able to boom in the industries they choose to penetrate, according to Quito San Agustin, country manager, Zyllem Philippines.

He added, “But while these enterprises can take full advantage of the power of the internet, they—like all other startup companies—need to have more partners on their team to deliver what their customers demand and grow exponentially along the way.”

San Agustin explains that having a good delivery service provider as a partner is crucial to the success of these SMEs, especially those who run online stores.

“The truth is, the possibilities are endless when you have a reliable partner that does the job for you. For one, they can help you beat the deadlines of your own customers and deliver their orders when and where they want it. Second, your shipping partner is not just delivering these orders; they are also giving you more time to talk to your customers without worrying whether the previous document has been delivered or not,” San Agustin emphasized. “The good news is, there is a reliable delivery service provider that will help you ship your customer’s documents or parcels within the day at very low costs.”

Globe Unit Innove Signs Deal with Govt to Provide Budget and Treasury Management System

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Globe unit Innove Communications recently signed a partnership agreement with the government to provide a Budget and Treasury Management System. Photo above shows Innove President & CEO Gil Genio (extreme right, seated) signing the deal, along with (seated from left) DBM Executive Director for Procurement Service Jose Tomas Syquia, DBM Secretary Florencio Abad; and FreeBalance President & CEO Manuel Schiappa Pietra. They are joined as witnesses by (from left, standing) Commission on Audit Director Luzvi Pangan-Chatto; Deputy Treasurer Sharon Almanza, Globe Head of eGov Anthony Lau; Globe President & CEO Ernest Cu; FreeBalance Vice President for Marketing Matthew Olivier; Free Balance Resident Project Director for BTMS Pradeep Aggarwal; Australian Department of Foreign Affairs Counsellor & Team Leader of Philippine-Australia Public Financial Management Program (PFMP) Daniel Featherson; and DBM Undersecretary and Overall Project Manager of BTMS Richard Moya.

Innove Communications, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Globe Telecom, recently entered into a partnership agreement with the government to provide a Budget and Treasury Management System (BTMS) to effectively execute and monitor annual budgets in a manner that is more transparent to the public.

The project, worth P495 million, involves the implementation and operation of a fiscal management solution which will be used by the Department of Budget and Management, as well as Bureau of Treasury and Commission on Audit. This system will eventually be rolled out to the rest of the government agencies and operating units. The new system will improve the timely execution of budgets to the agencies and provide timely information on the actual utilization of funds.

23rd PTAA Travel Tour Expo: A Record-Breaking Success As Always

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The Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) recently held the 23rd Travel Tour Expo on February 5 to 7, 2016 at the SMX Convention Center of the Mall of Asia complex in Pasay city. Leading the opening ceremony were PAL president and COO Jaime Bautista, PTAA president Michelle Victoria, Sen. Sonny Angara, DOT Tourism Promotions Board COO Ramon Enerio, and TTE 2016 Co-Chair Nitz Ragaza.

The Travel Tour Expo is an annual event organized by the PTAA and has always been a record-breaking success as every year it grows bigger and better. There are always a lot of discounted fares and other clever promos available only during the expo dates.

This year, the PTAA also mounted the International Travel Trade Expo (ITTE) which is a business-to-business (B2B) travel trade expo aimed at linking the growing Philippine market to overseas travel. The B2B hub is more cost-efficient for the players in the travel industry and aims to foster stronger ties among travel operators and industry suppliers to create more competitive products and services.

"Collaboration among stakeholders, even with indirect competitors, is expected t reshape travel in the next decade and beyond" say Michelle Victoria, President of PTAA. "We aim not only to strengthen business but also significantly improve travel experience."

"While we welcome more opportunities with the growing tourism sector in the country, we also need to brace ourselves with tougher competition ahead. We hope to regain the trust of our valued clients through innovation and we could only achieve this through collaboration." she adds.

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“Places to go, things to see, welcome to my home, my country. Beautiful sights, I want you to see. It’s more fun in the Philippines. It makes you feel like you’re in a dream.” - Apl de Ap

The above are just a few of the words included in the lyrics of the new Department of Tourism jingle sang by Allan Pineda Lindo, better known as Apl.de.Ap, a Filipino-American rapper, record producer, break dancer, philanthropist and judge at the Voice of the Philippines talent search. Popularly known as one of the members of the Black Eyed Peas, he is often invited to perform and grace special events and occasions.

Apl de Ap was asked by the Philippine government, specifically the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) of the Department of Tourism (DOT), to promote tourism for our motherland. The Philippines is such a beautiful place that everyone needs to explore and experience its sandy beaches, green forests and wildlife, delicious cuisine, and hospitable people.

He was also awarded the Presidential Award for Filipino Individual because he has not shied away from acknowledging his Filipino roots and continues to embrace his heritage, even in his work. From his humble beginnings to his extreme fame he still retains the Filipino hospitality and "bayanihan" spirit.

This is why Apl de Ap is very much appropriate to become an Ambassador for the Philippines.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Get ready for a rip-roaring laughter from the Comedy Cartel as they return to Big D's Smokehouse at
Eastwood City's , City Walk 2 (above Starbucks & beside 711) this Friday February 19, @ 9:30pm.

Bring your whole family and friends and hear rib-tickling comedy performances along side the best melt in your mouth smoked ribs and other house specialties! Tickets at P200.00 only! For seat & show reservations, call or text 0917-8860706.

See you there!

121 Bar & Grill and Comedy Cartel Presents Thursday Comedy Test Mic!

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Test mic, 121 too! Try out your comedy skills and deliver your jokes at the Comedy Cartel's Thursday Comedy Test Mic show!

Come on over at 121 Bar & Grill on Feb. 18, Thursday, 9:30pm at the 3rd floor of the BGC Stop Over bldg at 31st street (beside the Jollibee and Chowking stores that are across St. Luke's Hospital at the Fort.).

This is open to performers of all comedy formats and genres (stand-up, sketch, improv, ventriloquism, gags, music w/ comedy, props comedy etc.).

The stage is yours to perform at!

Bring your punchlines and your friends to this free show and check "doing comedy" off your bucket list!

See you there! ‪#‎comedycartelPH‬

Top Reasons Why You Should Visit Davao

Wazzup Pilipinas!
Davao continues to be among the premier destinations in the country as its tourism department lines up three key institutional programs for 2016 namely the Visit Davao Fun Sale (VDFS) for 2016, the 9th Mt. Apo Boulder Face Challenge, and the MICE Davao Programs that gives the most competitive support incentives for organizers who want to hold conferences and events in Davao city.

The effort aims to position Davao as the "islands to highlands" destination of adventure, beach holiday, food and culture, shopping and as a premiere MICE destination. The programs are all in partnership with the local government of Davao, Samal and the concerned provincial tourism offices.

At a press conference held during the first day of the PTAA Travel Tour Expo at SMX Convention Center located at the Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay, the key people involved in the project discussed the many potentials in recognizing Davao as among the great choices to travel this year and onwards.

This year's Visit Davao Fun Sale (VDFS) 2016, scheduled on March 25 to May 31, remains to be a city-wide sale and events extravaganza in davao featuring discounts and promos in all sectors of tourism from tours, accommodation, shopping, dining, relaxation and adventure.It's the first of its kind in the country involving several industries to make the tourist experience complete and the city branding unified.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Why settle for typical Valentine’s weekend fare when you can catch 50 Shades! The Musical Parody?

A great alternative to the usual dinner and movie date night, 50 Shades! The Musical Parody promises a wild and sassy evening of comedy for both women and men, with plenty of BDSM (Best Damn Songs and Music). The show opens on February 12, 2016 at the Carlos P. Romulo Theater of RCBC Plaza in Makati.

Fifty Shades of Grey has topped best-seller lists around the world with over 125 million copies sold worldwide and a 2015 blockbuster movie. A sexy, hilarious romp, 50 SHADES! The Musical Parody is a laugh out loud night of fun that audiences won’t want to miss!

The musical opens with a ladies book club deciding to read Fifty Shades of Grey. Through their interpretation of the novel, the audience is led on a hilarious roller coaster ride of this unlikely bestseller. The show is full of dance numbers, 11 original songs and a live band backing the performance. Original songs include “How Much Can I Take?”, “I Don’t Make Love”, and “There’s a Hole Inside of Me”.

“I think Pinoys are going to love 50 Shades! It is such a crazy, hilarious, and racy show,” said Albert Samuels, the show’s co-writer and director. “50 Shades! is so funny and so sexy at the same time. It will be an incredible night out for Filipino audiences. Come to the show, and get ready to laugh your heads off.”

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Don't you feel that there's something fishy going on. How come I only see the online portal of the Philippine Daily Inquirer newspaper reporting about the "suicide" or "accident" in SM Megamall building B involving a female who fell to her death from a floor of the mall.

I was waiting for a popular early morning show to mention the incident, but it was baffling that they didn't. As I look on the social media feeds, only online publications or those Facebook groups are the only ones commenting or reporting about the incident.

Steven Tan, a high-ranking official of the mall said on his official statement that “A woman fell at Building B in SM Megamall. She was immediately rushed to the hospital by the mall personnel. The mall security and the local authorities are currently investigating the matter. We will cooperate for further inquiry.”

However, based from the photos posted in social media by netizens, the victim was not immediately rushed to the hospital. In fact, she was covered up by a tarpaulin.

The sad situation is that we are not really sure if the victim accidentally fell or if she really committed suicide. Some reports say she was just fooling around on top of the railings and even shouted "Walang Forever!" before she slipped and fell to her death.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Everyday is comedy material, proven by hilarious moments caught on camera and curated for the public’s viewing pleasure courtesy of Top 20 Funniest.

Coming in this season is its new “voice,” Charlie Schlatter. Top 20 Funniest debuts its third season to its viewers in Asia through Sony Channel.

Its first season was thematic, with each episode running a countdown of videos following a specific theme. The second season were clips arranged according to specific categories. The third season presents its clips more similar to its last season’s format with the best viral video clips to home movies, pranks, surveillance videos, event footage and news bloopers.

Get ready to giggle, guffaw and flat out laugh roll on the floor with these candid scenes caught on cam.

Enjoy Top 20 Funniest Season 3 all weeknights at 7:55pm beginning February 20, first and exclusive on Sony Channel.

Sony Channel is seen on SKYCable Channel 35, Cignal Digital TV Channel 60, Destiny Cable Channel 62, Cable Link Channel 39.

Digital Tech Startup Squadzip Closes Successful Seed Funding from Kickstart Ventures and Plug and Play

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Squadzip, a mobile-first software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform for productivity and collaboration that applies the ease of use and familiarity of popular social media platforms to a sales and project management context, received an undisclosed amount of funding from corporate venture capital firm Kickstart Ventures and Silicon Valley-based seed-stage investor and innovation platform Plug and Play Tech Center.

Squadzip is the first co-investment between Kickstart Ventures and Plug and Play Tech Center. This also marks the first investment of Plug and Play Tech Center in the Philippines.

Squadzip was inspired by CEO and co-founder Roman Mercado’s own frustrations in using productivity solutions while he was working in enterprise sales for medical, banking, and digital media industries.

In his corporate life, Mercado saw many corporations sink huge amounts of money into enterprise solutions, the implementation of which meant high upfront fees, hardware cost, complex user trainings, and time delays. These solutions ranged from the free to typically expensive legacy enterprise platforms. The situation prompted Mercado to tap colleague and now CTO and co-founder Joaquin Barandino to help build Squadzip, a productivity tool for businesses that allows teams to communicate in real-time and share data without having to endure lengthy forms.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Government, through the Inter-Agency Task Force on Securing Energy Facilities (IATFSEF), reinforces efforts for Mindanaoans to enjoy the benefits of reliable and continuous supply of electricity.

The IATFSEF fast-tracks resolution of the right-of-way (ROW) issues to strengthen collaboration among national agencies and law enforcers to facilitate restoration of transmission tower no. 25, which remains isolated since the rehabilitation crew is being denied access by the claimants/landowners. The situation has impeded Agus Hydroelectric Plant Units 1 & 2 from supplying about 80 megawatts of cheaper power to Mindanao consumers and providing reliable power supply reducing, if not eliminating, rotating brownouts.

Apart from the provision of inexpensive power from hydro, the IATFSEF is exhausting all means to immediately return the benefits of host communities from the sale of the electricity from Agus 1 & 2. Under the Energy Regulations 1-94, host communities of Power generating facilities are granted a share of P0.01/kWh of electricity sales to be used for projects that will uplift the living conditions of the communities.

If the transmission tower remains unrepaired, this will result in unutilized electric power generated from Agus 1 & 2, depriving people in affected areas of their entitlement to undertake potential projects; such as, electrification, livelihood, health benefits (i.e., ambulance, clinic equipment), social infrastructures (i.e., roads, sports court), and reforestation, among others.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

I used to help out my uncle in his Goto business when I stayed for awhile in Pasig at my "Mama" who is my grandmother's youngest sister so I sort of have an idea how its run and managed. It was a time when I stopped my college days because of financial problems due to the separation of my parents. I could even still remember how I ask customers what they like to put in their "lugaw," "goto," or "arroz caldo."

Until now, I couldn't still remember the differences of the three varieties of the same porridge-based delicacy that is best eaten either on it's own or with "tokwa't baboy" or what we know as tofu and fried pork together with a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar and some sugar together with chopped onions. Though the porridge can be eaten with very little added ingredients, we have a choice whether to put hard-boiled eggs or the "tuwalya" or a particular kind of pork meat part called trife into our porridge. Some would put chicken or pork meat or even the chicken feet which is a favorite of many Filipinos.

I like mine with chicken, hard boiled eggs and the "tokwa't baboy" as a regular side dish. Sometimes I would eat it along with "lumpia" or spring rolls, while others can choose puto or rice cakes but I guess that's a better match for the "dinuguan" or pork blood stew.

I know that this kind of business is very profitable which is why they have popularized the term "tubong lugaw" because you can do things to the "goto" to maximize your earnings.However, it sacrifices the quality by masquerading the "goto" with spices or condiments like soy sauce and pepper. But the owners of Goto Monster says she makes sure the food they serve are top quality and not the usual type of servings that are only meant to increase profit earnings.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Chinatown Lai lai Hotel celebrated Chinese New Year with a big bang as several programs along with talent competitions entertained both local business owners and residents, as well as the numerous visitors from all over the Philippines and even from other countries, on the eve of the Chinese New Year fro 2016.

Not to be missed out are the many dragon dances all over Chinatown Binondo. In fact, on my way to the hotel for their media event were many dragons of all shapes, sizes and colors. Chinese people often use the term “Descendants of the Dragon” as a sign of ethnic identity. They are often seen on festive celebrations especially the start of the Chinese New year.

The Dragon has always been the highlight of the celebration and represents power, wisdom, and wealth.. The Dragon Dance performed on New Year's Day scares away the evil spirits and all the bad luck with them.

I passed a couple of them on my way to the location of Chinatown Lai Lai Hotel in the corner of Ongpin and Padilla streets in Binondo, Manila so I was surprised that these similar dragon dances have been occurring for the entire day.

Wazzup Pilipinas!
A new adventure-packed seminar is coming your way! 5TRIVED Productions proudly presents BLOGSMASH: Tour. Eat. Blog! “Discovering the Content Hub of Marketing through Blogging”. It will be held this coming 23rd of February, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, at SM City Sta. Mesa, Cinema 9. Generally, it is for the marketing students of PUP-Manila, but the event will also gather the students from different courses, as well as from the different schools/universities like Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, Quezon City Polytechnic Univerity, Centro Escolar University, and more. The seats are limited, so the organizers will implement the First-Come, First-Served policy. Nevertheless, the admission is free, and interested participants are all welcome.

The seminar aims to achieve the following objectives: 1) discuss the importance of making blog as the company’s content marketing hub, 2) enlighten the audience about how influencing the blog media today, and the bloggers as the new brand ambassadors, 3) exploring the nature of Food and Travel blogs, and 4) showcase the Blogging Community in the Philippine. These objectives will be possible to tackle, with the help of the three (3) guest speakers who are in line and known in the realm of blogging. The event also wouldn’t be possible without the support of the sponsors and media partners. Please see poster for details.

5TRIVED Productions is a group which composed of twenty-three (23) fourth year marketing students from Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Main Campus.

The Philippines is 7107 No Longer with 400 New Islands Discovered

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Mapping agency National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) recently announced the discovery of 400 more islands within the Philippines where mostly can be found within Mindanao.

So now the Philippines can be called the country with 7507 islands. Textbooks need to be rewritten, and teachers need to be aware of the discovery. I'm sure there are more than 400 islands out there that are still waiting to be discovered as advancement in technology will allow us to become more skillful in determining our geographical status.

If there are islands somewhere within the West Philippine Sea, then we should guard these islands or else China will try to claim if it...so to speak. They say the entire Philippine Islands is in the watchful eyes of greedy China. Lol!

The Republic of the Philippines is a sovereign state in archipelagic Southeast Asia categorized into three main geographical divisions which are Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Our islands are hotbeds of life, with approximately 12,000 plant species, 1,100 land vertebrate species and at least 400 coral species. And more are being discovered as you read this! More than 5,000 islands of the archipelago are yet to be named. With the addition of 400 more, that means 5,400 are now still nameless. Where does one register to have an island named after a person? Who do I need to pay to have an island named after me?

Go Negosyo and ATI on Radyo Inquirer's Vigattin Radio Show

Wazzup Pilipinas!

A day before the special day of the hearts which we all call Valentine's Day, were guests coming from the Go Negosyo team, namely Aeron and Gian, who were mainly there to promote the Go Negosyo 8th Filipina Entrepreneurship Summit on February 18, 2016 at the World Trade Center, Pasay City.

Our discussion focused on how they advocate entrepreneurship and shared some inspiring success stories brought about by setting up an own business. Elison asked them about possible sources of capital while I told them I share the same advocacy towards a vision where Filipinos no longer seek employment but can stand on its own by passionately putting up our own businesses.

What is the right business to setup? It will largely depend on your interest, skills and passion. Not all stories may turn out positive because every business has always been a risky venture, but if we are really determined to succeed, failures will only strengthen our will to bounce back and try again.

Also one of our guests was Rommel, the Creative Director of American Technologies, Inc. (ATI), the sole distributor of the Wacom brand in the country. The brand is known mostly for drawing tablets which most artists use for their digital drawings or animation requirements.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Panagbenga or the Baguio Flower Festival is when flowers conquer the city of Baguio. The term “Panagbenga” comes from a Kankanaey term meaning “season of blooming.” It is the time when flowers are in full bloom thus many can generously use them to decorate almost everything, from the home interiors to the exteriors of offices and establishments.

Most of the days in Baguio are always cooler compared to Manila and the other parts of the Philippines so the plants and flowers grow a lot better and more beautiful because of this cool climate. This is why Baguio has been called the Summer Capital of the Philippines because it is a favorite destination when its disturbingly hot in Manila.

Aside from the Strawberry Farm in Benguet where you can eat ice cream with real strawberries, or the other popular places to visit within the areas of Baguio city like Burnham Park and Camp John Hay, Baguio has also been conquered by the biggest mall chain in the country.

Baguio celebrates starting February 1, but the highlight of the event is of course at the very last week which is on February 27, 2016 when they hold the Grand Street Dancing Parade at Panagbenga Park-Session Road-Magsaysay Avenue-Harrison Road – Athletic Bowl starting at 8 am, then on February 28, 2016, the Grand Float Parade will be held at DILG – Session Road – Harrison Road – Athletic Bowl.

Liquid Concepts Scores Golden Buzzer after Wedding Proposal on Pilipinas Got Talent

Wazzup Pilipinas!

"Liquid Concept's performance and proposal display was so perfect for today. With that precision to bar tending, kahit walang proposal I'll press the golden buzzer if I'm one of the judges." -

Will you marry me baby?

Love is definitely in the air on Valentines Day at Pilipinas Got Talent reality TV competition when a proposal took place with the tandem called Liquid Concepts.

The first ones who actually made a similar proposal were the couple doing interpretative/contemporary dance bf/gf confession of love, and then the second couple is this bar tending performers whose male member decided to do a wedding proposal.

Well, they were successful in creating a stir among the audience as even the peeps on social media are sharing the moment and is now going viral or trending among netizens.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

"I don't know where to put my attention. That proposal sa Pilipinas Got Talent, sa scandal ni Michael Pangilinan, or sa suicide sa SM Megamall. Busy Valentine's Day. Sad pa ba your heart?" - MJ De Leon

This is the most depressing news of the day.

The breaking news that is now spreading all over social media is that a lesbian committed suicide by jumping from the 4th or 5th floor of SM Megamall Building B. Many heard the loud fall and were all shocked when they saw the body. "The alleged suicide appeared to be a female wearing green t-shirt and khaki shorts. The lifeless body of the person was sprawled face down on the mall’s tiled floor near an elevator."

The photo above was posted by a Cherryl Luis in one of the threads that discussed the suicide.

True enough, it's supposed to be the day when love is all over, but sadly one soul is now no longer among the living as she obviously has a broken heart that is so depressed that she decided to end it on this special day when hearts should be rejoicing.

I really do not know how to react upon hearing about this very unfortunate moment, but now is the time to keep your loved ones closer and to also remember that there may be lonely individuals out there that are desperately seeking our affection.

They need our love. Be generous enough to share some affection especially to those who are seemingly troubled.