2016-04-03 ~ Wazzup Pilipinas News and Events

Saturday, April 9, 2016

Energy Sector’s Preparations in Full Swing for National and Local Elections

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The Power Task Force Election (PTFE) 2016 with the Department of Energy (DOE), as lead agency, met with power stakeholders as part of measures and synchronize efforts in preparation for the elections on 09 May 2016.

From Mindanao, Energy Secretary Zenaida Y. Monsada said, “We are here to check the Agus 6 and 7 Hydropower plants in Maria Cristina, Iligan City as well as the Power Task Force Election headquarter within the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) – Iligan Regional Disaster Command Center (RDCC) to ensure that the systems are in place, working and ready ten (10) days prior to and after elections.” She emphasized that the Filipino voters deserve a clean and unquestionable elections with the stable provision of electricity during the election period.

PTFE members are scheduled to visit the PTFE Visayas headquarter in Banilad Cebu City on April 15, while for Luzon and National Capital Region to follow. Moreover, there will be a dry run on 21 April 2016 to ensure that all systems of communication will be working well between assigned NGCP RDCC headquarters in North Luzon, South Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao to the Overall Disaster Command Center of NGCP in Diliman.

Note that the activities of the PTFE and its members involving the conduct of information, education, and communication campaign with the local communities are also in compliance with the deputization of the DOE and various energy agencies by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to ensure adequate, stable and reliable power supply before, during and after the national and local elections in the country.

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The Final Screening for the Miss Global Philippines 2016 was recently held at the Symphony Tower, Sgt. Esguerra St. cor. Timog Ave., Quezon City.

The Miss Global Philippines pageant, a search for deserving Filipino women who will serve as a Tourism Ambassador promoting Philippine heritage and its world-class destinations here and abroad, is organized as a way of initiating its own support to the country’s tourism sector. Their mission is to be a national beauty pageant known for fielding outstanding and deserving Filipino women who will work towards the promotion of Philippine tourism and its culture. Their vision is to provide support to government initiatives, both on national and local levels, in promoting Philippine tourism through the concerted efforts of the organization and the pageant’s eventual winners.

The organization believes that a beauty pageant is an effective platform to showcase what the Philippines has to offer. Exuding beauty and charm, the eventual winners of the pageant will embody the hospitality of the Filipinos known all over the world in helping the government strengthen its tourism campaign.

Moreover, the pageant embraces both single and single mothers who possess not just beauty, but also the passion to serve and the commitment to make a difference for the Philippines and its people.

Here we have a glimpse of what transpired with professional photography by our partner photographer Collin Sarthou Yap.

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The national costumes of the Philippines varies in design and concept depending on the province, and of course, the designer who creatively imagines every style, curve, twist and turn of the fabric. Almost every year, we see them getting better and more intricate in design and challenging in the materials used.

"The ladies displayed the creations of some of the country’s established and emerging fashion designers. While many designers stuck to the familiar, tried-and-tested ternos, there were others who took bolder steps in crafting gowns inspired by indigenous culture." - Interaksyon.com

Though the overall concept remains to be sophisticated, the designs eloquently tries it best to bring out the allure and beauty of every candidate.

The 40 candidates of Binibining Pilipinas 2016 recently showcased their respective national costumes on Wednesday night, April 6 at the Kia Theatre, Araneta Center. As expected, the venue was jampacked with an audience all eager to witness the beauties strut their national costumes on stage.

At the end of the night, the chosen 6 Best in National Costume (in no particular order) are the following:

Suzuki Wows Riders at the Grandest Bike Fest and Trade Show in the Philippines

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Thousands of motorcycle riders and enthusiasts visited the Suzuki Booth last April 2-3, 2016 during the 10th Inside Racing (IR) Bikefest and Trade Show at the World Trade Center and got a chance to see the future of Suzuki GSX as well as the Japanese giant’s frontrunner bikes. Suzuki Big Bikes were displayed led by the infamous GSX-R1000 MotoGP model as well as the addition to the brand’s pool of higher-cc rides – the GSXS1000, the GSX-R750 and the motocross model – the RM-Z250. The small bikes comprised of the Underbone King - Raider R150, the charmer and global scooter - Address and the solo backbone that gives you an exXhilirating ride – Gixxer.

The Future of Suzuki

GSX Suzuki unveiled another breakthrough at the Philippine motorcycle industry on the first day of the bikefest which gathered no less than 10,000 people. Suzuki showcased the GSX Concept Bike which brought the riders in awe as Suzuki executives led by President Hiroshi Suzuki, Managing Director Mr. Norminio C. Mojica and Motorcycle Division General Manager Mr. Jun Bulot formally launched the well coveted model which is the inspiration of the future GSX motorcycles. Fresh from the Tokyo International Motor Show, the GSX Concept Bike made this occasion its second public appearance. The GSX Concept Bike aptly called as the Concept GSX has all the potency that characterizes the GSX Series. Suzuki’s powerful and responsive inline-four engine brings together low fuel consumption and durability. The same technology is featured throughout the GSX Series, including the GSX-R1000, Hayabusa, and GSX-S1000.

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Looking for a good place to laugh & unwind on a payday Saturday evening? Watch the Comedy Cartel's live comedy series entitled "Scarlet Nights" at Scarlet Wine Lounge at the Fort Strip BGC on April 16, Saturday, 8pm! Featuring one of GMA 7's Bubble Gang's writer Rene Cruz Jr., Laugh & Stack Season 1 First Runner Up Sherwin Cunanan & ABS CBN's Pilipinas Got Talent Season One Finalist - Mr. Ruther Urquia! Laugh 'til your face turns red w/ laughter and get your much needed comic relief! Reserve your tickets now! Call or text 09178860706 for reservations!

Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 Tires Fitted to the BMW M4 GTS

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Specially developed versions of the MICHELIN Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires will be the sole original equipment fitment on the new limited special model BMW M4 GTS.

As a track car that is approved for road use, the job of Michelin’s engineers was to design an ultra-high-performance tire which is able to operate safely in a variety of road and track conditions around the world. To this end, the MICHELIN Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires for the BMW M4 GTS were produced using not only Bi-Compound asymmetric tread patterns but also an asymmetric casing design. This offers the optimum balance between handling, grip and tire life.

During the development process Michelin produced and tested more than 1,000 prototype tires and 400 special series tires which were tested by both Michelin and BMW M test drivers.

To achieve all of the performance characteristics demanded by BMW M, Michelin’s engineers focused on the interaction between the tire’s tread compounds, architecture and profile, and between the tires on each axle. This ensured not only good road manners in terms of steering effort and response, balance and comfort but also fast lap times and consistent performance on track – with a particular objective to limit heat build-up and wear.

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Summer just heated up as Worldbex Services International, the country’s leading events and exhibitions organizer, presents the hottest automotive trade show in the country – the annual Manila International Auto Show or simply MIAS. Running on its 12th year, MIAS 2016 opened its doors last April 7 and will be ongoing until April 10 at the combined venues of the World Trade Center and the Philippine Trade Training Center.

To officially kick-off the 4-day automotive extravaganza, an opening program and ceremonial ribbon cutting were held at the lobby of the venue. In attendance at the event were VIPs, members of the diplomatic corps and notable industry icons including WSI’s Joseph Ang, Levi Ang, Jill Aithnie Ang, Rene Ramos, Tessie Roque, MIAS co-organizers - Alvin Uy, Jason Ang, Ulysses Ang, and guest of honor, MMDA General Manager - Ms. Corazon Jimenez representing MMDA Chairman - Emerson Carlos, and AAP President - Mr. Gus Lagman among others. Later that evening, the APP “Driver of the Year” Gala Awards Night was respectively held.

Driving up to the future

Headlining the theme of “Smart Mobility”, MIAS 2016 takes things to a whole new dimension, as it delivers not just your typical automotive displays and whatnots. But rather, it is an unforgettable presentation of the most state-of-the-art technologies that are at the core of today’s most innovative automobiles and accessories – officially taking over a total of 30,000 square meters of indoor exhibition space and beyond.

As the world enters a new era, so does the automotive industry as it materializes a new breed of models and accessories that possess elements and characteristics that were once only deemed as science fantasy. At this year’s MIAS, attendees are given a unique opportunity to witness first hand the groundbreaking products of tomorrow. From cars that can maneuver itself into parking spaces to vehicles with interactive cruise control, attendees are sure to get their fill of the action as countless booths house actual smart automobiles. Moreover, exhibitors are more than willing to demonstrate how fun and safe these models are.

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Beat the heat this summer with an I.T. School’s latest offerings for kids and teens!

Informatics Philippines, the only I.T. school in the Philippines that gives international certifications and global recognition to students, and Wazzup Pilipinas, a popular community blog composed of passionate bloggers from the Philippines, recently partnered to organize a bloggers event to launch the latest offering of the school: Informatics Senior High School: World-class Senior High Education, and the Summer Programs for Beginners (for kids Ages 7 to 15), for school year 2016 to 2017.

Select bloggers from the Wazzup Pilipinas community were invited to the event which was also aimed to share the strengths of Informatics, and what ICT has to offer in today's digital world. Held on April 7, 2016 at Cafe Enye in Eastwood, Libis Quezon City, the event was attended by Informatics executives namely Ms. Yolanda A. Soliveres, Vice President for Operations; Ms. Charlynne S. Ebetuer, Vice President for Academics; and Ms. Katrina N. Pastor, Vice President for Marketing, who also shared their insights and success stories from Informatics. Mr. Ross Del Rosario, founder of Wazzup Pilipinas, welcomed and congratulated the bloggers for being part of the very first bloggers event held by the I.T. school, while Mr. Alfred Serrano, also from Informatics, hosted the event.

Everyone would agree that our choice of Senior High School for our kids would be a major factor contributing to the success of their future. Whether it be a high-paying job or a successful business.... whether they choose to be an entrepreneur or a professional in the future… a specialization in I.T. is the most lucrative path to their future. For this reason, Senior High School is now being offered at Informatics.

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Committed to 50 years and more, the Club de Damas Latinas of Manila has been an inspiration of "Giving with Love" to Filipino children organizations. One more time, this actively empowered group is wholeheartedly planning the traditionally blissful and remarkable fundraising Charity Ball, one of the most expected parties in Manila. A glowing night alive with celebration for the Gold Anniversary will sparkle at the Latin Charity Ball "50 Years of Giving with Love" on May 14, 2016 at the Fairmont Makati Hotel.

It is one of the most prestigious fundraising events in the country, and has been listed by the Philippine Tattler among the Top 20 Parties of the country. It supports two beneficiary children institutions: Holy Family Home Foundation and Eugenia Ravasco Day Care Center.

Prime yourself for this exciting night of celebration for a worthy cause with an interesting Silent Auction with well known vendors along with a splendid ambiance, food and the allure of the dynamic Latin culture and music with Mai Castro & Banda Latina, and DJ Mateo Munevar.

For more information on how to attend, please contact

Makati / BGC: Jhovana Ramírez (0977) 827-9755

Alabang: Rina Arola (0917) 681-0240

or by email dltesoreria@gmail.com

Comedy Cartel Present Unsafe Space Round 1 and Round 2

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This April, The Comedy Cartel's trademark uncensored brand of stand up comedy does two shows in two consecutive nights. Featuring the Comedy Cartel's up and coming comics (and some surprise guests), Unsafe Space rounds 1 and 2 will be a hilariously inappropriate and entertaining series of shows!

Round 1
The Bar@1951
Unsafe Space round 1
April 14, 2016 / 9:30PM
1951 M. Adriatico St. Malate

Round 2
KKK Coffee
Unsafe Space round 2
April 15, 2016 / 9:30PM
Maginhawa St. Quezon City

The Power of Allowing

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I just hit another milestone in my life. Well, actually, it’s more of a milestone for my son – Patrick Gabriel – who happens to be the country’s youngest motivational speaker and broadcaster. Just this weekend, Patrick flew to Singapore for a 4-day vacation, without Mommy and Daddy.

Of course, it’s a milestone for Patrick because he is beginning to be independent at his young age. Don’t get me wrong, he is traveling with his aunt along with a few of his aunt’s friends, so he is not traveling alone! Personally, I feel it is an accomplishment as a parent to ALLOW my ten-year-old son to make decisions for himself, and to be okay with the thought that he is not going to need me for a few days.

I’m proud of what my son has grown to become. At age 8, he wanted to become a radio broadcaster, so I produced a radio show for him called “Voice of the Children.” Shortly after, he wanted to become a motivational speaker, so I started tagging him along in my talks and giving him a few minutes of stage time even just to say hello to the audience. Now, he is motivating people who are even older than him – college students, parents, teachers, professionals – and his speeches are pretty awesome! In other words, he decided to follow my footsteps… no, let me take that back. He actually wanted to beat my record as the youngest broadcaster and motivational speaker, and all I really did was ALLOW him to!

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Gearing up for a milestone event in Philippine Esports, leading digital services providers PLDT Home Fibr and Smart Communications have announced Team Mineski.Sports5 as the Philippine representative to the much anticipated ESL One Manila 2016, Southeast Asia’s first ever premier DOTA 2 tournament, that will gather some of the world’s best online gamers at SM MOA Arena on April 23 to 24.

Making history as the largest Esports event in the Philippines to date, ESL One Manila 2016 is spearheaded by Germany-based Turtle Entertainment – one of the world's biggest Esports company – and is presented by PLDT Home Fibr and Smart, which have empowered Filipino gamers through innovative products, services and the most awesome Esports experiences.

Team Mineski.Sports5, which is composed of veteran Esports players Ryan Jay Qui, Benhur Lawis, Jun Kanehara, Jessie Vash Cuyco and Julius Caesar Sto. Domingo, will battle it out with seven other teams from Asia, Europe, and the United States – all vying for prestige and a stake at the massive prize pool worth USD250,000.

Banking on their determination and experience in the international scene, Mineski.Sports5 emerged at the top of the multi-legged nationwide qualifiers that gathered teams in Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, and Manila.

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The AirAsia Runway Ready Designer Search (AARRDS) goes regional this year with the competition expanded to include the Philippines including Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia to provide a platform for young aspiring designers from around the region to showcase their talents and help catapult them into the fashion industry.

This designer search, which is being held for the second time is in collaboration with the Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week Ready to Wear (KLFW RTW) team was formally launched in March 29 by Ms Aireen Omar, Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia Berhad together with Mr Andrew Tan, Founder of KLFW RTW in Kuala Lumpur.

Audition round for the Philippines will be held in Manila on April 23 to discover local talents from around the country. Top 3 designers from the Philippines and other five Asean cities will compete during the Grand Finale in August on the prestigious KLFW RTW 2016 runway.

Aireen Omar, Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia Berhad said, “There is so much talent in this region, and as a truly Asean brand, we want to expand this designer search to other countries apart from Malaysia. We hope to provide all aspiring young fashion designers across Asean with a platform to empower and catapult their careers in the fashion industry. This regional designer search will be unparalleled and bring together the region’s fashion talents and industry for the first time on this scale. We look forward to see new talents this year and AirAsia is proud to be part of their journey.”

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Global FC blanks Stallion FC in a match that determined which team would enter the Finals at the UFL Cup 2016.

Global FC took the lead initially with Croatia-born defender Milan Nikolic scoring a goal on the 29th minute. While midfielder Louis Serge Kaole, scored the next goal for the team. Kaole was also declared Man of the Match.

In an interview after the match, Coach Leigh Manson said, “We scored 2, we kept a clean sheet, and the boys are off to another fight. And that’s where we always aspired to be at Global, to be at the Finals of UFL. I’m very proud of the boys, they gave their 100% to get us there. Very pleased.”

Global FC will face-off with Ceres La Salle in the final round of UFL on April 16, 2016.

Common Ailments to Watch Out for as Summer Kicks In

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As the weather temperature continues to rise, the 6S or six illnesses of summer are not far behind.

Diarrhea and vomiting, sore eyes or conjunctivitis, sunburn, skin diseases, cough and colds, and rabies are the six common ailments that Filipinos must watch out for in the next two-to-three months.

With lots of people heading to the beach or the swimming pool, they may accidentally drink water that is infected with the E.Coli bacteria which comes from fecal matter that contaminates the water source, thus, causing nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. Poorly chlorinated swimming pools may also cause sore eyes or conjunctivitis when the virus enters through the eyes.

Such prolonged exposure to the sun without proper protection against the harmful Ultraviolet rays may, likewise, cause sunburn – that painful, itchy, irritated patch of skin that often peels off. When combined with dehydration, overexposure may lead to heat stroke.

Summer also causes skin diseases to come out such as the tan, scaly patches caused by yeast infection which thrives in moist parts of the skin; infected bug bites and contact dermatitis while camping and hiking; and whitish, translucent bumps called molluscum which thrives in under-chlorinated water, among others.

Cough and colds, while may cause discomfort anytime of the year, tend to linger in the summer while the number of dog bites also increases as dogs become irritable due to the heat and children spend more time playing outdoors.

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Multi-awarded actor and director Roeder Camanag is set to lead an all-male cast to act as females in Dulaang UP’s “ANG DRESSING ROOM: KUNG SAAN LUBUSANG PANGUNGULILA ANG DULOT NG AGOS NG PANAHON” --- a 1977 post-war Japanese play by Shimizu Kunio, translation adapted by Chiori Miyagawa from an original translation by John Gillespie and its Filipino translation by Palanca award winning playwright Nicolas Pichay under the direction of Alexander Cortez.

Together with Roeder are seasoned artists of Philippine theatre, film, and television namely Andoy Ranay, Gwyn Guanzon, and Ian Ignacio.

The play within a play tells the stories, frustrations, memoirs and aspirations of four actresses preparing backstage (gakuya, in Japanese) and waiting for their cue to enter onstage. All actresses express their desire to perform the lead role and their obsessive coveting for it ignites a comic yet dramatic narrative about shared memories and their relationship with each other. “Ang Dressing Room: Kung Saan Lubusang Pangungulila Ang Dulot Ng Agos Ng Panahon ”is a tender and humorous drama about actors, the theatre, aging, surviving and moving on.

Herewith are some interesting thoughts written by Roeder Camanag on his role as Actress A about this play which opens on April 13 – 7 p.m. at the Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero Theater, 2/F Palma Hall, U.P. Diliman Q.C.

Harte Hanks Helps Sony Regain Brand Loyalists

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Sony is a global leader in electronics products, but the Japanese multinational conglomerate once lost this status as a premier brand, at least for the brand loyalists.

How did Sony, an iconic brand for Filipino consumers, regain that lofty position in the world market?

It took a marketing strategy mapped out by Harte Hanks, who is known for driving growth for the world’s largest brands, to turn things around for Sony, one of the world’s largest television manufacturers.

With consumers having more options, how could Sony Corp. generate consumer buzz around its products, and then translate that into long-term loyalty that drives growth and profitability?

Harte Hanks, which will incidentally open on April 21 its BPO-call center at the Mall of Asia Complex, in Pasay City, and the Japanese company devised an integrated marketing campaign that leveraged the power of untapped data from Sony’s existing and prospective customer base. The idea was to keep them a step ahead of the customer.

“We deliver real interactions and measurable engagement results for brands the world over,” said the US-based marketing firm, who had established a main and two secondary locations in the Philippines more than a decade ago. The MOA facility will consolidate Harte Hanks Philippines’ BPO-call center operations in the country.

Evia Lifestyle Center Has the First and Only MX4D Motion EFX Cinema in the Country

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I watched for the nth time a Batman versus Superman: Dawn of Justice movie at the Evia Lifestyle Center MX4D Vista Cinema. Since the movie's regular screening last March 26, I've watched the said movie for the 4th time already at special blocked screenings organized by different companies.

But why am I still watching the movie again? Not only am I a fan of the Batman/Superman franchises, the experience watching the movie in 4D makes the repeat worth every second, and every peso. The regular rate for a 4D is around P450 to P500 depending on the movie but the experience has proven the cost very worthwhile.

The cinema just started its operations on February 10, 2016 and houses 4 state-of-the-art movie theaters, including an immersive 80-seater MX4D Motion EFX Theater - the newest evolution in the 4D cinema experience,

What is 4D? Aside from being 3-dimensional or 3D, it also offers you 10 kinds of smell (yup! your nose will have a special treat), and you get to almost feel what you see in the movie. Here you'll experience your seats heave, roll and pitch to synchronize with the actions in the movie. The seats will also jolt and poke you at the back and bottom.

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According to essayzoo.org, college education is important for the students’ population given that it helps in personal growth. This argument develops in the case that students have come across a website with essays that comment about college education and college life. This means that there is an ideal contribution to the college life to the student. A good case to argue is that many people from the college institutions usually attribute their school life to the fact that they have been able to travel while studying. This forms that basis of the argument given that these school trips help to expose the students to a variety of culture and tradition.

Another important point to note is that it becomes increasingly demanding to travel when one has finished their college years. This statement means that when one has graduated, the life after school becomes stressing with the increased bills. For example, after finishing school one does not have the opportunity to skip their responsibilities in the place of travelling. Thus, it is very important that students travel while still in school given that they have the opportunity, and they are allocated with student discounts.

International experience is important for students given that the diverse world of employers would want to hire people with such experience. However, students tend to argue that travelling as a student is costly given the high airfare. In this view, it is important for students to realize that many schools or institutions offer a scholarship that accommodates the expenses. As such students should maximize the opportunities to engage in abroad study programs offered while in the school years. Importantly, travelling students acquire certain skills such as independence, opportunities to network with other people and bilingualism. As such, travelling as a student is like an investment that will generate benefits in the end.

Links Used:

http://travelmakersmd.com/summer-travel-for-students/

http://www.al-fanarmedia.org/2015/12/turkey-offers-refuge-to-expelled-egyptian-students/

Animax Amps Up Girl Power This April with Snow White with the Red Hair and Cross Ange: Rondo of Angels and Dragon

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More anime excitement is set to come this April as Animax brings to its multitude of viewers two new shows with female protagonists namely Snow White with the Red Hair and Cross Ange: Rondo of Angels and Dragon.

SNOW WHITE WITH THE RED HAIR

Premieres April 14 at 8pm, Wednesday and Thursday, 2 Episodes back-to-back [First & Exclusive]

The anime adaptation of this shojo manga centers on the skilled herbalist Shirayuki, who, after being ordered by the Prince of Tanburn to be his concubine, flees from her country. On her journey, she comes across Zen who, unbeknownst to her, holds an elite position in the neighboring kingdom Clarines. As the story progresses, she trains to become a pharmacist of Clarines and develops a warm relationship with Zen. This lighthearted fantasy revolves around Shirayuki’s quest on curing disease outbreaks and preserving her relationship with Zen despite the difference in their social status.

CROSS ANGE Rondo Of Angels And Dragon

Premieres April 19 at 10pm, Monday and Tuesday, 2 Episodes back-to-back [First & Exclusive]

Cross Ange Rondo of Angel and Dragon paints a society well far into the future that finds itself free from pollution and war. Thanks to an innovation called “Mana,” days of perfect peace seems to have been finally found. Unknown to the people who have accepted this, it is but an illusion. Those who have rejected “Mana” have continued to live in oppression and are called “Norma.”Angelise, the first princess of the Misurugi Empire is exposed as a Norma by her own brother, resulting in a backlash that drives her to a far place called Arzenal, where she becomes a soldier and finds herself in one challenge after another, with the ultimate goal of restoring real order in her world.

Animax is seen on SKYCable Channel 46, Cignal Digital TV Channel 34 and Dream Channel 07.

UP Debate Society Hosts Largest Asian Parliamentary Debate Competition in the Philippines

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In its 15th year, the Philippine Intercollegiate Debating Championship (PIDC) kicks off with more than 30 institutions set to battle it out this April 15-20, 2016 in UP Diliman. The University of the Philippines Debate Society (UPDS) is the main organizer of PIDC, the largest Asian Parliamentary debate tournament in the country. Approximately 500 debaters and adjudicators will compete for the prestigious championship title.

Engaging in arduous seven preliminary rounds, debaters from various colleges and universities shall be filtered thereon. The adjudicators are assigned randomly and scored after each round. The top sixteen teams, ranked according to the number of wins and individual speaker scores, will advance to the Octofinals. After, the remaining teams will undergo a series of single elimination rounds that will take the top two teams to the Grand Finals.

The Adjudication Core, as elected by the Philippine Debate Union (PDU), is responsible for composing the official motions handed out every round. The distinguished members of this year’s PIDC are the following: Jose Escalante from the University of the Philippines Diliman, Milky Babilonia from the University of the Philippines Los Bańos, Inah Robles from Ateneo de Manila University, Charles de Belen from San Beda College, and Avi Castano from De La Salle University Manila.

The motions, or topics that participants will debate on, range from global concerns to pressing local issues. This year, PIDC 2016’s theme is Empower Discourse. With the aim to elevate Philippine debating as a platform for youth involvement especially in the 2016 elections season, motions tackle issues from socio-legal to political and economic.

Creating a ‘Smarter’ City Through the Human Centric Innovation

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Different nations are now embarking on a journey to become smarter. But with the looming population growth worldwide, how will it be possible for one city to address their setbacks for growth?

According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef), the world’s urban population is expected to grow to 70 percent by 2050. This trend makes efficient resource usage and traffic even bigger challenges, making sustainable urbanization more relevant than ever.

“There’s going to be a completely different paradigm of the world coming,” said Rio Yamaura, vice president of Fujitsu’s New Solution Business Division.

According to Yamaura, the concept of having a smarter city is rooted from the amalgamation of people, infrastructure and information, with people at the society’s very core. This is the Human Centric Innovation, an approach to creating business and social value by empowering people with the power of technology.

During the recently held Fujitsu Asia Conference in Makati, City, Yamaura explained that Singapore adopted this approach to create a “futuristic urban city.”

Last year, Fujitsu penned a master research collaboration agreement with Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*Star) and Singapore Management University to harness ICT in developing solutions for sustainable urban operations including crowd mobility and transport engineering.

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One of the top Malaysian mixed martial arts prospects, 23-year old flyweight standout Gianni Subba (7-1) will return to the ONE Championship cage next Friday at ONE: GLOBAL RIVALS, against the Philippines best flyweight bet Geje “Gravity” Eustaquio (7-4) of Baguio City’s Team Lakay. With a victory, Subba feels he will be one step closer to a shot at the ONE Flyweight World Championship.

“Whatever one championship has planned for me, the goal is to win a world title for Malaysia,” said Subba, who faces his toughest test yet in Eustaquio.

Eustaquio is arguably the Philippines’ most talented fighter at flyweight, with a record of seven wins and only four defeats. The Filipino stalwart is known for keeping his cool and composure in the face of adversity, while dishing out some of the fastest strikes in the business nicely packed in Wushu Sanshou.

For Subba, the fact that Eustaquio is also on the rise makes him feel their paths would inevitably cross one day.

“I always knew that I would eventually be fighting Geje [Eustaquio] so I wasn't surprised that I got the matchup,” said Subba. “He's fought some of the best in the division and I'm working my way up, it was inevitable.”

At seven wins and just one loss, Subba is at the top of the list of flyweight prospects on the cusp of a breakout performance. All Subba needs is one solid victory against a highly-ranked opponent, and he could be next in line for a crack at ONE Championship gold.

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With a series of hellos and goodbyes following the graduation season, Discovery Channel also brings in a new series, a one-off, and the final season of one of its most-followed programs.

This month, one of Formula 1’s top mechanics seeks a fresh challenge after nearly 10 immensely successful years in the motorsports industry. Marc “Elvis” Priestley, who was an integral part of Lewis Hamilton’s championship-winning pitstop crew in 2008, embarked on a journey to find the planet’s most fascinating amateur motorsports and the result is the show Gears, Grease & Glory.

With his F1 knowledge and experience, Elvis will be exploring the world’s most fascinating motorsport subcultures and working with amateur enthusiasts to create, build and customize one-of-a-kind vehicles which they will test in a racing environment. The new series Gears, Grease & Glory premieres April 7, Thursday, 8PM on Discovery Channel.

Returning for its new and final season are special effects experts Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman in their multiple attempts to find out the truth. Using modern day science, they put everyday myths and urban legends to the test to determine what's busted and what's confirmed. This team is always ready to take it to the next level with explosive results!

Catch the final season of Mythbusters as it premieres April 13, Wednesday, 9 PM.

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Philippine real estate portal MyProperty.ph recently launched a new tech feature that will help home-buyers choose a property more easily. Called the “Compare Listings” feature, it allows users to view multiple listings on one page, providing them with an overview that compares properties in aspects such as price, size, number of bedrooms, and nearby points of interest.

“The Compare Listings feature is a first for MyProperty,” Jacqueline van den Ende, managing director of both MyProperty.ph and Lamudi Philippines, said of the feature implemented early this year. “We’ve always been dedicated to helping Filipinos find their dream home, and this new feature will bring them one step closer to achieving that dream.”

The MyProperty.ph Compare Listings feature allows buyers to find out what makes one home a more ideal option over another by letting them view properties and their characteristics side-by-side. It’s versatile as well; users can even compare different types of properties from different locations. For instance, a user can put two Taguig condos side-by-side, compare and contrast the details of a house and a condo in Quezon City, or see why a townhouse in Cavite is better than a house in Rizal. What’s more, it can also be used for any type of listing for rent to help out those looking to lease a temporary home.

MyProperty.ph currently has over 130,000 listings all over the Philippines, and going through all of them will be a difficult task, hence the search filters. Once a user has filtered their search to show only a few properties, it’s only a matter of choosing the best one for them to buy. With the Compare Listings feature, they have a chance to see what advantage one property has over another to help them make the right decision.

The 4th Annual Marketista Awards: Search for the Next Outstanding Junior Marketing Association of the Philippines

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The paragons of the marketing community will glimmer once again as the Philippine Junior Marketing Association (PJMA) honors the different junior marketing associations across the country who have taken excellence to new heights!

The 4th Annual Marketista Awards is all set to name the most brilliant among the myriad of stars this 30th of April 2016, 6-10PM at City Garden Grand Hotel in Makati City.

Make your greatest pitch on any of these categories:

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY encloses events that aims to give back to the community by addressing a social concern.

ACADEMIC covers scholarly events held inside the university/college whose attendees are from the same university/college.

INTERSCHOLASTIC comprises events attended by students from different universities and colleges.

BREAKTHROUGH includes the biggest and most standout event of a local junior marketing association.

Put your best foot forward in all these four major categories and get a chance to be hailed as THE OUTSTANDING JUNIOR MARKETING ASSOCIATION OF THE PHILIPPINES!

Go above par and submit your entries until the 15^th of April 2016, 11:59PM. Be in the know by checking out PJMA’s Facebook Page (www.facebook.com/philippinejuniormarketingassociation)

Take a leap now and let your success shine the brightest in the most exquisite constellation of marketing!

For inquiries and other concerns, you may reach Anna Calvan at 0926 260 4493 or email her at pjma.amjpcalvan@gmail.com.

#MarketistaAwards2016

Yamaha Presents the Rev Hall, A Gala of Ingenuity at the 10th IR Bikefest

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Motorbikes are now the most popular means of transportation mainly because it is easier to purchase motorbikes that are available in convenient and easy payment terms. You only need a few thousand pesos of down payment and a reliable source of income to get the opportunity to own your very own motorbike.

During my first years at my initial work right after graduation, I already had the opportunity to purchase one just by presenting my monthly payslips as proof of my employment, and I could bring home a motorbike within just a few days.

Now, motorbike riders could be seen everywhere you look which is probably why the 10th Inside Racing Bikefest was highly attended by both pro and newbie enthusiasts of motorbiking for sports, leisure and work.

Among the exhibitors at the 10th IR Bikefest is Yamaha Motor Philippines which is returning bigger than ever to the event. Yamaha has been in the industry for over 60 years and its designs have been unique through the years yet continuously evolving. The brand is already a household name known to many for both music and motorbikes.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Anime fans in Asia are in for a double dose of action and adventure as Asia’s top Japanese anime channel, Animax, is set to air two of this season’s biggest series – My Hero Academia and Twin Stars Exorcists, on the same day it premieres in Japan!

First to premiere on Animax last April 3 is My Hero Academia, the first-ever television anime adaptation of the wildly popular Weekly Shonen Jump manga will deliver 13 episodes of superhero action and comedy. Set in a world where a majority of the population possess superpowers, the anime will tell the tale of 15-year-old Izuku Midoriya, who was born without any powers, as he defies his birth rights and joins the hero-training high school in Japan. Will he be able to match up with his elite peers and emerge as the ultimate hero?

My Hero Academia airs every Sunday at 8pm.

Also premiering on the same day as Japan is the action-packed Twin Star Exorcists. Helmed by the acclaimed studio that produced major hits such as Naruto and Bleach, this supernatural anime adventure is highly-anticipated by both the fans and media. Like the manga of the same name, the series will follow the journey of rival exorcists Rokuro and Benio, as they discover their true destinies and pair up to exorcise all the evil in the world.

Twin Star Exorcists is set to premiere on 6 April, airing every Wednesday at 10pm.

Animax is seen on SKYCable Channel 46, Cignal Digital TV Channel 34 and Dream Channel 07.

Akapela: Philippines' First Full Contemporary A Cappella Concert

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Philippine Contemporary A cappella Society beams with pride as it presents AKAPELA, a one-of-its-kind, one-night-only contemporary a capella concert featuring two of this generation’s most talented and in demand vocal acts in the country today namely: PINOPELA and BAIHANA.

Pinopela is an alumni group of the internationally acclaimed choral group, Saint Louis University Glee Club and was originally formed for the singular purpose of competing in the Akapela Open, but since placing second in 2013 and further after winning the championship in 2014, the group has evolved into a true professional. Pinopela began accepting invitations to perform at various functions after their warm reception at the Akapela Open 2013, and has since then wowed innumerable audiences previously unacquainted to contemporary a capella. The group opened the Myx Mo 2015 anniversary concert at the MOA concert grounds, that became one of the concert highlights, with an all a cappella opm number with some of the country’s biggest stars ! The group’s lone female beatbox also bagged the Mossimo Music Summit 2015 title last year. This year, Pinopela qualified for two international a cappella competitions and will battle head on with other international groups.

Baihana is an all-female vocal trio that creates, arranges and performs music that is uniquely refreshing to young and old alike. Let Krina Cayabyab, Anna Graham and Mel Torre take you back in time with their doo-wop take on standards and current radio hits. Whether you’re a devout jazz lover or someone searching for entertainment after a hard day’s work, Baihana has something for you and much, much more.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Lately, Flash launched a “Life with Metal” photography campaign on its official website, covering six countries: India, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. It is reported that a total of more than 2,000 pieces of photographs have been received within only ten days and the click counts on the web page of the event have exceeded 160,000. The photographers took photos of a variety of metal objects from rings, automobiles to an iron tower, revealing the art of life in the form of photography.

Notably, this event is not merely a photography campaign, for it has sent an important signal that “Flash is soon to launch a new product”. On the homepage of the event, it is said that Flash is going to select 10 excellent photographs from each country that will be displayed with signature of photographers during the new product launch event. Also, the prize-winning photographers of every country will each get a new smart phone as a gift. Does this suggest that Flash is soon to hold the new product launch event and release the latest smart phone?

According to the previous product releases, it’s highly likely that a new product of Flash will make its debut very soon. Up till now, the Flash series have already had three models of smart phones: Flash launched in September 2014, Flash Plus in May 2015, and Flash 2 in September 2015. According to such a tempo, the unknown fourth model is very likely to come in no time. What’s more, the Flash series once had created phenomenal e-commerce sales craze in Southeast Asia, with enormous market potential and consumer needs: Flash Plus once set the record of selling out 100 units in one minute while Flash 2 became the sales champion of Southeast Asia’s largest e-commerce platform Lazada for the same price range within one month of being placed in market - it regained popularity during the December 12th promo with sales volume up close to those of Apple and Samsung. Given such favorable market situation, if Flash “strikes iron while it is hot” to launch a new product, it will be sure to reset the sales record of smart phones.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

CFA Institute, the global association of investment professionals that sets the standard for professional excellence, will recognize May as Putting Investors First Month which marks the third year of this annual awareness campaign.

“CFA Society Philippines, being one of the member societies of CFA Institute, is taking part in this global effort by organizing again the Financial Fitness Run (FFR) which aims to inform the investing public about the importance of being financially fit and how to be financially fit,” April Tan, president of CFA Society Philippines, said.

“Investors, commit one or more common investor mistake, wherein one individual often proves to be their own enemy which may lead to dramatic impact on overall returns. And, this year we would like to create awareness about the most common and costly mistakes investors make,” Tan adds.

CFA Institute warns individual investors to be cautious of their investment decisions to avoid these seemingly simple yet impactful missteps.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

It’s the grandest time of the year for Polytechnic University of the Philippines’ Department of Advertising and Public Relations, as the graduating students show what creativity really is, in the upcoming 26th Grand Ad Clash entitled “Muling Pagdaloy: Ang Dugong Malikhain”, happening at SM City San Lazaro Activity Center on April 9, 2016 at exactly 12 PM.

The Department of Advertising and Public Relations will showcase that creativity and wit flow in the veins of their students as they annually arrange an integrated marketing communication contest that marks the final stretch of the senior students before they go toe-to toe with the real deals of Advertising shebang. And for the year 2016, 6 teams will be up for their grandest pitch yet, with Maynilad Water Services Inc. as their client.

Much like how important the role water plays in our day to day living, the 6 participating teams carefully conserve and utilize every drop of research and data which are essential, as it support their campaigns. These facts will help them come up with a crystal clear analysis, after a thorough analyzation and brainstorming, recommendations, together with the out-of-the-box idea and deliverables, will start coming up as the creative blood flow intensifies for each participating team. And with much confidence, the team’s chosen presenters will exude the overflowing greatness of their work at SM City San Lazaro Activity Center on April 9, 2016 at exactly 12 in the afternoon. Updates will be posted on their official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pupadclash2016. It will definitely be a day of big idea extravaganza as these 6 contestants will have their young creative bloods tested and be hailed as the grand winner of the said event.

Come and witness the grandest event of the year, where real creativity flows in the veins of the advertising youngsters, the 26th Grand Ad Clash entitled: “Muling Pagdaloy:Dugong Malikhain.”

26th Grand AD Clash is brought to you by 3rd year students of advertising and public relations, in cooperation with Beep, Muz Skin Care Korea, Dickies, Eskwelahan Planner, Finessa Aesthetica, Zalora, PULP Magazine, Chalk, ClickTheCity.com, Rakista Radio, Voice of the Youth Network, Wazzup Pilipinas, Radyo Veritas, Wish 107.5, WhenInManila and Light Network Channel 33.

ePLDT Expands Cloud Expertise with Amazon Web Services

Wazzup Pilipinas!
ePLDT, the digital enterprise enabler of the country's leading telecoms and digital services provider, PLDT, continues to expand its cloud expertise and strengthen its portfolio of cloud solutions with its recent elevation to Standard Consulting Partner in the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Partner Network (APN).

As an AWS Standard Consulting Partner, ePLDT enables enterprises to design, build, migrate, and manage their workloads and applications on Amazon Web Services.

"This fits our overall strategy to offer a full-spectrum of enterprise cloud solutions via our own managed infrastructure and expertise as well as through partnerships with the best in the business," shared Nerisse Ramos, ePLDT Group COO. "We recognize that when it comes to cloud adoption and implementation, one size does not fit all requirements since different workloads require different deployment models and infrastructure tuning. The mission is to empower enterprises with the countless benefits that cloud offers - lower cost of ownership, operational agility, auto software updates, increased collaboration, easy and affordable business continuity and disaster recovery implementation- to name some. Of course, this is wrapped around by the combined expertise of ePLDT and AWS."

Amazon Web Services, widely regarded as the leading cloud infrastructure provider globally, is the cloud computing platform of Amazon. Operating on 11 regions around the globe, it includes a wide range of web-based services including Compute, Storage, Network, Mobile, and Database.

UP CSWCD Proudly Presents 3K UP: Takbo para sa Kabataan, Kalikasan at Kinabukasan

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The UP College of Social Work and Community Development (UP CSWCD) in partnership with Manila Vegans and LandBank bring you

"3K UP: Takbo para sa Kabataan, Kalikasan at Kinabukasan", a run for cause for Tatak CSWCD scholars.

Tatak CSWCD scholarship program is a project of the college to give financial assistance to CSWCD undergraduate students to finish their academic degrees.

3K UP will have 1km(P200), 3km (P300), 5km(P500) and 10km(P700) event run at the UP Diliman Academic Oval, Quezon City this April 16, 2016, Saturday. Program will start at 6am. Each runner will receive race kits inclusive of singlet, race bibs and freebies.

For tickets and inquiries contact Olive Cinco 981-8500 loc 4104 or email at 3k.upcswcd@gmail.com. You can also visit the event page at https://www.facebook.com/events/1218406044854876/.

Also, thanks to the major sponsors Rexona, Ceres and Quorn. Special thanks to Globe and Maynilad and to the media partners DZUP 1602, Monster RX 93.1, Wazzup Pilipinas and ClicktheCity.com.

Let us run for the environment while helping our young Iskolar ng Bayan. See you!!!

Sky Eye Wins Impact Hub Fellowship on Innovation in Mobility with LBC

Wazzup Pilipinas!

After months of hard work, collaboration, and innovation, SkyEye, Inc. was awarded as the first ever winner of the Impact Hub Fellowship on Innovation in Mobility with LBC. Aside from a cash prize of P320,000, for the next 9 months, the team behind SkyEye will be receiving continued mentorship and training valued at over P430,000―for a total of over P750,000 in start-up support.

The final awarding was held on March 29, 2016 at the Impact Hub office located at the 5th floor of Green Sun building at Chino Roces extension in Makati. Matthew Cua was present to accept the award, but all three startups where asked to do their pitches a few minutes before they finally announced the winner.

I've known Matthew before when he guested as one of our resource persons at Vigattin Radio of Radyo Inquirer DZIQ 990 AM where I co-anchor with Elison and Arne Barcelo every Saturday from 10 to 11 am. Vigattin (Victory In Governance And Technology Through Information Network) Radio promotes startups and entrepreneurs among many other businesses and ventures in the Philippines ranging mostly on science and information technology efforts.

The winning Fellow was among three teams that pitched their businesses to a panel of industry experts and investors led by Mr. Dino Araneta, LBC’s Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

We would like to congratulate Dickies for having ABS-CBN Kapamilya's sensual teleserye seductress Arci Munoz (from the recently concluded Pasion de Amor TV series) aka Ramona Thornes, headbanging vocalist of the heavy metal rock band Philia for being their Dickies Intimates brand ambassador.

Dickies Intimates, formerly known as Dickies' Girl, is the new line of lifestyle underwear from Dickies or formally known as Williamson-Dickie Mfg. Co., a global street wear brand offering a broad spectrum of garments.

Arci is the new face, or should I say body, of Dickies Intimates. A very revealing launch was held on March 30, 2016 at the Skye Lounge at the rooftop of W Building in BGC Tagig city to formally introduce the new line of underwear.

According to Arci, the new line of lifestyle underwear really represents the women of the new generation who are bold, sexy and conservative at the same time. Indeed, this lady was both liberated in flaunting herself wearing the undergarments while modeling infront of media and photographers but then she was somewhat shy during the interview portion while she was up front wearing the same outfit during the fashion show along with some other models who showed off the other underwear designs.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

There's a new service that opens new option for sending money to many countries including US, UAE China and India.

Transfast, a leading global money transfer and payments solutions company, has introduced money transfer services from the Philippines to many countries including the US, Canada, UAE, India and China.

Customers will be able to send funds to the listed countries, from any of the 6,000 locations throughout the Philippines which are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The announcement was made at a Press conference held today in Manila.

Transfast is known worldwide for providing instant deposits and instant cash, and the new service announced today further expands its services.

“In an increasingly mobile global population, customers are seeking convenient access to money transfer services, wherever they work and live,” says Samir Vidhate, Director – EMEAA, Transfast . “The flow of remittances is important to the health of the global economy and sending funds overseas is, for many, a fundamental means of ensuring the financial security of businesses and families alike.”

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Last Saturday, I went to what is known as one of the happiest place on earth - the Paradizoo Theme Park and Residence Inn - located in Tagaytay, Cavite. It is indeed a great summer animal and farm tour destination that's worth it to be included among our travel itineraries.

We had organic snacks and tanglad juice at this marvelous Zoomanity farm. Here, we witnessed the Red Magic Show and Musical Entertainment after our exhilarating zipline ride, and interacted with the animals - tigers, lions, monkey, snakes, birds, tarantulas, camel, ostriches, horses and lots of other exotics animals. And for the finale we saw the soft launch of Residence Inn's millions lights.

Earlier, as we ventured forward further into Tagaytay vicinity, the cool breeze of the place promised to make this event a very memorable southern trip. Arriving at the place, the 12 hectare farm offers a peaceful sanctuary to enjoy farming and animal interaction. As viral as Carrot Man and his numerous spoofs, here we even had opportunities to visit pet cemeteries and a Noah's Ark miniature. It maybe my second visit to the place, but it seems always a good feeling to visit nature and the animals again.

In Paradizoo, The latest update is that they have now a trailer house, and a big guest room for rent that can accommodate up to 10 people. There's also a house for motorist located in trailer container that can be rented in a short period of 3 hours. This is aside from tent camping in which you may rent or bring your own tent to really feel the forest or jungle overnight just as how Boy Scouts do it.