WSOF Global Awards Kristine Nolasco as Ring Girl Search Grand Winner

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Misagh Bahadoran, Philippine Azkals and Global FC football superstar, and currently Folded & Hung’s newest model, was celebrity judge during the World Series of Fighting Global Championship (WSOF-GC) Ring Girl Search held on July 23, 2016 at the Gateway Mall in Araneta Center Cubao, Quezon City. Misagh joined the other judges which included WSOF Global owner Dunesa Hesser and fellow lifestyle and sports blogger Jared Baliguad of Supladong Runner blog.

We would like to send our congratulations to Kristine Nolasco for winning the ring girl competition. She was impressive with her witty answers during the Question and Answer portion where she effectively highlight her edge as a sports enthusiast specifically on the field of swimming and Taekwondo. 

This is aside from her slim and sexy physique, plus the adorably pretty face that added to her plus points. It is great to know that the judges value her intellectual and passionate prowess to finally pick her as the grand winner as Decagon Girl during fight night on July 30 at the Araneta Coliseum where 20 mixed martial arts (MMA) fighters will go against each other face-to-face in a battle where physical strength, speed and agility are the primary skills needed to win.

Akbayan Summons Heroes to Oppose Marcos Burial at Libingan ng mga Bayani

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Akbayan party-list along with other human rights advocates today donned Filipino hero costumes in vehement opposition towards plans to bury former dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr. at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. The groups called on President Rodrigo Duterte to reconsider his plans to allow a hero's burial for the late dictator, ahead of the scheduled SONA of Pres. Duterte.

“We appeal to President Duterte to scrap plans for a hero's burial for the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, and instead focus the energy of his administration towards the recovery of all ill-gotten wealth as well as the pursuit of justice from the Marcoses instead,” said David.

The anti-martial law advocates further emphasized that real change can only happen, not by disregarding the Marcos sins, but by instead seeking accountability for the Filipino people.

“For genuine change to come, there must be justice – every Filipino was conned and victimized by the Marcos dictatorship,” said Akbayan spokesperson Paeng David. “His plunder of the country’s coffers represents taxpayers’ money which went into buying luxury shoes for Imelda and hosting lavish London parties for Bongbong.”

The groups further hit the late dictator for his fabricated military records, which the human rights advocates belive should disqualify the late president from being buried in the Libingan ng mga Bayani.

“Marcos was neither a decorated veteran nor a distinguished military officer,” added David. “His war medals have been proven to be fake by the US Army, further adding insult to the idea of being buried alongside soldiers who actually sacrificed their lives for the country,” she said.

David further emphasized the stark contrast between the lifestyle of the Marcoses and the lifestyle of ordinary Filipinos, many of whom were forced to live in poverty.

“For more than thirty years, Filipinos have languished in poverty while the Marcoses kept moving their stolen wealth around and away from the hands of the Philippine government and its people,” added David. “A hero’s burial effectively legitimizes all the dictator’s excesses, and serves the interests of nobody but the family which benefited from this plunder.”

Akbayan members dressed up as Darna, Lastikman, Captain, Barbel, and other heroes in protest and denouncement of plans to bury Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. They were joined by grassroots organizations from the urban poor and peasant sectors.

Free Hepatitis B Screening & Lay Forum On World Hepatitis Day 2016

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Center for Liver Disease Management and Transplantation (CLDMT) and the Center for Patient Partnership (CPP) will celebrate World Hepatitis Day 2016 with the theme “Prevent Hepatitis: Its up to YOU! this coming July 28-30, 2016. 

As part of our thrust in making patients our partners, a lay forum and FREE HEPATITIS B SCREENING shall be held on July 30, 2016 8:00AM at 4th floor conference room, Podium Building, The Medical City.

In line with this, we would like to invite you, your families and friends to this interesting forum and screening. This forum is FREE but pre – registration is strongly encouraged. We shall give 200 Hepatitis B Screening kits to childbearing age women as well as pregnant (pre-registration is required).

For registration and inquiries, please call Center for Patient Partnership office at 988 – 7000/988 - 1000 loc. 6444, visit us at the Ground Floor, Podium Building, or email us at cpp@themedicalcity.com.

DOE: Nationalistic Approach Needed in Dealing with Shell and Other Business Partners

Wazzup Pilipinas!

When asked to comment on the arbitration case filed by Pilipinas Shell against the Philippine Government, Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi stated that “We welcome this as an opportunity for the national government to effect real change and to come up with definitive and clear-cut policies in dealing with our partners."

PNOC Exploration Corp., a government-owned and controlled corporation attached to the DOE, has a 10% interest in the Service Contract 38 consortium with Shell Philippines Exploration BV and Chevron Malampaya LLC.

Shell filed a case against the Philippine government, specifically challenging the interpretation of the Commission on Audit in the computation of the 60-40 sharing of the proceeds from the Malampaya Project.

In a separate case, the Supreme Court, through a ponencia of Justice Marvic F. Leonen, decided that all service contracts must be personally signed by the President otherwise, such contract is void. The case is under reconsideration before the Supreme Court.

“This issue is not the concern of the Department of Energy nor of the Executive branch alone. The Supreme Court, the Commission on Audit and even Congress have a stake here too.” Cusi clarified.

The newly appointed Energy Secretary pointed out that while there are benefits under a system of checks and balances such as ours in the Philippines, there are drawbacks too.

"In the end, a nationalistic approach is necessary to make a unified stand. This is in line with the Duterte administration’s vision of unity in our country."

Cusi added that “ultimately, whatever mandate each branch or agency has, our bottomline is one and the same: to serve the best interests of the Filipino people.”

The DOE will recommend to the President the necessity of aligning government institutions to work together and act consistently.

"The Philippine government must have a unified stand in all its decisions and actions just as we have shown in the West Philippine Sea issue."

"The DOE will exhaust all possibilities and avenues to study options and bring before the President recommendations that will have one objective: to protect and serve the best interests of our Country and the Filipino people," Cusi concluded.

Enrollment for DLSU Online Health Informatics Course September 2016 Batch is Now Open

Wazzup Pilipinas!

This coming September 2016, De La Salle University- Manila (DLSU-M) in partnership with HealthInformatics, Inc. (Hii) and MedX will again offer the course to interested applicants for a Certification in HEALTH INFORMATICS. This course has started since July 2013 and has been recognizing health professionals from all over the country and around the world.

What are the Benefits of taking the Course?

100% ONLINE.

Using MedX, you can access the course anytime, anywhere you are!

Through MedX, the Health Informatics Course is built in a media-rich environment to engage and motivate doctors, nurses and allied health professionals while learning.

It is SCORM-compliant (Shareable Content Object Reference Model). SCORM is a set of technical standards for online learning to facilitate interoperability among Learning Management Systems (LMS).


Increased Competency.

This course is for doctors, nurses and allied health professionals interested in learning Health Informatics and Health Information Technology (Health IT) for professional development.

Investing in continuing education for health informatics provides the foundation of knowledge in this area of specialty among healthcare providers including nurses, doctors, allied health professionals and other professionals part of the healthcare ecosystem.


Global Certification.

It utilizes both practice-based concepts and experience from experts with topics from the Health Information Management Systems Society (HIMSS) to promote techniques, tools and strategies for effective health IT implementations. HIMSS, is an international organization, a leader in maintaining health IT industry standards.
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More Flexible Payment Options

You can enroll for the entire course or you can also pay per module, whenever you are ready.


Integration of HIMSS Topics

Healthcare Information Management Systems Society (HIMSS) topics aim to promote techniques and strategies for effective health IT implementations.


The course is a 13-week program. Classes start on SEPTEMBER 28, 2016. For details on the Course Objectives, Course Outline, Class Schedules and Payment schemes, please refer to the attached COURSE GUIDE.

Hontiveros Hopes to Hear Health, Hague and Human Rights Solutions in Duterte's SONA

Wazzup Pilipinas!

I will listen to President Rodrigo Duterte's first State of the Nation Address (SONA) with an open mind and insistence on hope. I am attending this event as a Filipino, health advocate and mother. Thus, I expect three important things from the President's SONA.

As a health advocate, I hope that the President will elaborate on his government's health policy framework.His decision to send our health officials to Cuba to study its health care system is a step in the right direction. Cuba's health care system is hailed by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of the best. I have high hopes that this will enable the government to live up to its mandate to provide universal healthcare for the people. Universal health care is a great equalizer. Its fulfillment is a step towards eradicating inequality.

As a Filipino, I trust that President Duterte will be guided by the historic Hague Ruling to assert the country's sovereignty and marine jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea and in advancing genuine peace and stability in the region. Our historic win before the Arbitral Tribunal must be strengthened by the new government. To deviate from the spirit of this ruling would render the victory hollow and our sovereignty compromised.

As a mother, I expect President Duterte to reaffirm his adherence to due process and rule of law, an oath that he made during his inauguration. Together with this, I hope the President will adopt a different tenor on women's dignity.

The spike in the numbers of extrajudicial killings and random murders on our streets is disquieting. A climate of fear and uncertainty has descended on many families and communities. Not a few women have been killed and not a few mothers have shed tears over the loss of a son or daughter unjustly killed in the fight against crime and illegal drugs. The killings on the streets must stop. The perpetrators, whether they be vigilantes, lawless elements or corrupt and overzealous law enforcers, must all be made accountable. President Duterte, through his first SONA, must send a strong message that it is not the policy of his government to sacrifice human rights and the rule of law in its anti-crime campaign. Human rights and rule of law are essential in any democratic society. The solution to disorder is not greater disorder. The solution to crime is not inexplicable murders. Lasting peace will only be possible with respect for the dignity of men and women and the government's adherence to human rights.

I hope these three issues will be covered by President Duterte's SONA. To make good on his campaign promises, he should know that these three issues are crucial in building a strong, healthy and peaceful country.

Philippine Bridal Week @ Singapore Season 6: Bringing World Class to the Philippine Wedding Industry!

 

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Tagaytay based Events Company Destination Events and Business Solutions Inc. (DEBS) aims to bring world class to the Philippine Wedding Industry by providing an avenue where wedding professionals can showcase their creation and services.

As part of its drive to position the Philippines as the next wedding destination, DEBS, is organizing another Bridal and Travel Fair in Singapore this coming July 30-31, 2016 entitled Philippine Bridal Week @ Singapore Season 6. The fair will be held at the Grand Ballroom of Pan Pacific Singapore, 7 Raffles Blvd, and (Marina Square) which will feature 50+ exhibiting companies including wedding venues, hotels, photographers, videographers, caterers, designers, makeup artists, florists, stylists, and more. Soon-to-weds can avail of special discounts and packages from participating suppliers on the said fair.

The highlight of this event will be a mini bridal fashion show, featuring the creation of the Philippines most sought after bridal couturiers; Mitch Desunia and Claiza Bihasa on July 30, 2016 at the same venue.

Future brides will benefit from one-on-one conversations with wedding professionals who understand that wedding planning can be extremely emotional and stressful, and are on hand to help every bride attain her perfect wedding.

The first 200 brides will receive a gift bag upon entry, providing a range of enticing offers and discounts by exhibitors and other donors. Brides may enter to win more amazing prizes throughout the day during a series of raffles. This season’s GRAND prize would be an all expense paid honeymoon package to Boracay complete with accommodation and airfare (Manila to Boracay).

Wazzup Pilipinas is a proud media partner of the Philippine Bridal Week Singapore Season 6.

The bridal and travel fair is open to public from July 30-31, 2016 from 1:00pm to 8:00pm. Fashion show is on July 30, 2016; 6:00PM Admission is free. Online registration is available at www.philippinebridalweek.com .

 For more information please contact: 09173831003/09089612700/0464350827 or email info@philippinebridalweek.com .

Twitter Ushers In Digital Governance for Duterte Administration at #SONA2016

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Filipinos can follow the @PresidentialCom official account on Twitter to watch live video highlights of President Duterte’s first-ever State of the Nation Address

Twitter is collaborating with the Duterte administration to connect the new President with Filipino citizens worldwide, starting first with the #PresidentDuterte emoji and #PartnerForChange campaign and expanding now to his first-ever State of the Nation Address (SONA) on 25 July 2016. For the first time ever in Southeast Asia, live video highlights of a head of state’s address to the nation will be shared on Twitter for a global audience. Filipino citizens worldwide, and anyone interested in President Duterte’s plans for the Philippines, can follow the @PresidentialCom account to see high-quality video clips of #SONA2016 in their Twitter timeline, powered by SnappyTV technology. In addition, Filipinos can comment, share and discuss the much-awaited speech using the event’s official hashtags #DuterteSONA and #PartnerForChange on Twitter.

Embeddable Tweet: https://twitter.com/PresidentialCom/status/755928661627314177

“The keys to an effective democracy are real-time political updates and live engagement with the government. This initiative with Twitter is a landmark development for the Duterte administration’s digital governance efforts,” said Pratiksha Rao, Head of Media Partnerships, Twitter Southeast Asia. “By providing a platform for live commentary, connections and conversations for the President’s State of the Nation Address, Twitter is enabling the Duterte administration to connect with Filipinos via social media and help initiate change for the country.”

Appstart Academy Bridges the Gap Between Students and Their Dream Careers

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Most of us would know how popular apps are nowadays. This is why they would call app developers the rockstars of the new generation when apps literally rule the world due to its innovative usefulness and the convenience it offers to the users.

Available as either web or mobile apps, these user-friendly, affordable and most of the time free applications can be accessed almost anywhere as long as you have a smartphone with Internet or data connectivity.

This made app developers very much in demand and has also paved the way for even young but bright-minded individuals to form startups seeking funding opportunities from potential investors who they try to impress with their globally useful and sustainable ideas. Usually, these ideas revolve around the usage of apps accessible through mobile phones since its the most "in" thing to have right now especially by the millennials who are fully engaged with everything mobile and online.

You can actually become "appreneurs" if you know how to code and design your own apps, and would surely give you financially rewarding either on your own or through collaboration with like-minded individuals.

Unfortunately, ordinary individuals would not have the full knowledge of successfully developing their apps by their own unless they enroll in a training center or be tutored by a developer. However, there seems to be no school focused on app development training alone so you have to shell out big bucks Luckily there is now a training institution that caters to app development training.

Appstart Academy is a training institution built with the mission of bridging the gap between students and their dream careers in the tech industry. Through their immersive program, students will be able to create and launch their own iOS apps in a very agile manner all in just 12 weeks of training for three times a week with 3 hours every session. 

"It is more than just a school, it’s a place where barriers are broken and goals are reached. Where visionaries can finally make their ideas happen, where everything can now be applied to something actual and workable."

AppStart Academy was formally launched through a Press Conference on July 22, 2016 at Makati Shangri La Hotel in Makati city. The event was led by founder and CEO, Ann Villar Jacobe, together with her co-founder,]and CTO, Lyndon Cruz, as well as the other team members that made up Appstart Academy.

The event was attended by members of the media including bloggers, the new breed of media or journalists managing online sites where they can easily express their personal thoughts, ideas and opinions.

There was a lot of questions since Appstart Academy can be considered a pioneering company for this particular industry. Most of the app development success stories happens outside the Philippines, so it gives us pride and joy to finally have a local initiative that aims to fill up the lack in app development training. It is about time to put the Philippines in the mAPP!

We also learned about the Apprentice program which is Appstart Academy’s way of recognizing real talent and helping those who want to get started with their goals right away. With the “Learn Now, Pay Later or Join Us” option, students can pay as they learn with realistic terms or eventually be a part of the Appstart Team.

Apportunity Initiative is Appstart Academy’s own way of supporting and encouraging women to be active in tech and the app development scenario. Through it, headstrong women in tech can be sponsored by willing financiers, companies and foundations. Given the proper funding and support, every determined woman can finally be given the chance to learn and become prime movers in the tech world. 

Appstart Academy is open to most kinds of collaborations, especially investment opportunities, so it can help them fully realize their vision of bridging the gap between you and your dreams through innovative app development ideas.

Congratulations to Appstart Academy for this new venture. They are literally quite new, with less than a month in conception as of this writing, but we see big things ahead for them.

Watch out for our video interviews with them at our YouTube channel at http://www.YouTube.com/user/wazzuppilipinas

More photos will be available at our official Facebook fan page at http://www.Facebook.com/wazzuppilipinas

Interested parties may visit http://www.appstartacademy.io/ or call (02) 828 2298 for inquiries.

Solar Power Developers Courtesy Call to DOE Secretary Cusi

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Confederation of Solar Developers of the Philippines, Inc. (CDSDP) sought an audience with Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi to discuss the country’s solar power development last 18 July at the Department of Energy’s (DOE) compound in Taguig City. CDSDP is composed of seven founding generation companies, including AboitizPower, Bronzeoak, EDC, Equis, NV-VOGT Philippines, SolarPacific and Solar Philippines. These solar power developers have combined, installed and in operation capacities of up to 515 megawatts.

As shown in the photo together with Sec. Cusi (center) are (L-R) the DOE Chief-of-Staff Jesus Cristino Posadas, Engr. Arwin Ardon, Ret. Admiral Reuben Lista, Central Tarlac Biopower Inc. President Don Mario Dia, Equis Manager Craig Marsh, NV-VOGT Phils. President Vivek Chaudhri, North Negros BioPower, Inc. President Arthur N. Aguilar, Reynaldo Casas CSDP President, Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc. Senior Vice President Juan Antonio Bernad, Carlos Aboitiz of Aboitiz Power, Solar Philippines President Leandro Leviste , SolarPacific Energy Corp. Senior Business Development Officer Dyna Enad, DOE Spokesperson & NASECORE President Pete Ilagan.

What Kind of Car Would Your Favorite Pokémon GO Character Be?

Wazzup Pilipinas!

We thought that Pokémon fever would never again reach the limits it soared to in the late 90s, but with the recent release of the augmented reality game Pokémon GO, the world has once again gone crazy for those adorably strange creatures.

The Pokémon app’s popularity has reached such heights that it has seldom been out of the headlines in recent weeks, with some intriguing stories highlighting just how addictive this app is (just read your favorite news site to find out all the details). And having come down with a bit of a Pokémon fever ourselves, Carmudi has compiled a list of your favorite Pokémon- and what car model they would transform into if they could take an automotive form.

1. Pikachu- Yellow Cherry QQ

Undeniably the most famous Pokémon out there, Pikachu won the hearts of kids and adults alike with his puppy-dog eyes and sweet voice. We think that Pikachu could easily transform into the Cherry QQ, with its diminutive size, large round headlights and high angled bonnet reminding us of this little Poké monster’s face. A cute car for the cutest Pokémon.

2. Mewtwo- Purple Chevrolet Camaro

Strong, agile and striking, Mewtwo exudes power in almost every way imaginable. And what car could come close to showcasing all of these characteristics? The Chevrolet Camaro, of course! With its distinctive look highlighted by its strong front grille, the Camaro is a car made for those with attitude as well as style. A perfect fit for the legendary Mewtwo.

3. Charizard- Orange Ferrari 458 Italia

The fiery nature of Charizard leads us only to one car- the Ferrari 458 Italia. Fast and imposing with just the right amount of fire, the Ferrari 458 Italia easily bests any car that comes near it, just like its Pokémon counterpart, Charizard.

4. Squirtle- Blue Hyundai i10

With his wide set eyes and slightly crooked smile, Squirtle is the definition of cutely awkward. And the same thing could definitely be said about his car counterpart, the Hyundai i10. Small in stature with a sharp front design, the Hyundai i10 is a small package with a lot of punch.

5. Bulbasaur- Green Honda Brio

He may be small and flash a cheeky smile, but Bulbasaur is one of the most resolute yet dynamic Pokémon you can catch. We think the only car that Bulbasaur would be rightfully matched with is the Honda Brio. This hatchback is on the smaller side but has all the dynamism of a sedan. And with its array of features and topnotch drivetrain, we think Bulbasaur would be proud to be coupled with this handsome hatchback.

6. Skarmory- Lamborghini Sesto Elemento

With its steel wings and sharp look, the somewhat scary Skarmory could easily transform into the stunning Lamborghini Sesto Elemento. An automotive wonder both inside and out, this sports car showcases some of the most impressive design traits available today.

7. Jigglypuff- Suzuki Alto Lapin

Quite possibly the most adorable Pokémon of all time, Jigglypuff is all candy floss and dreams. And the Suzuki Alto Lapin is exactly that, just in car form! With its baby pink coloring, round headlights, and cute boxy exterior, the Alto Lapin is a car you will understandably want to take care of more than drive.

8. Mightyena- Black Range Rover

Mightyena is fierce and stealthy, just like its automotive ally the Range Rover. Turning heads wherever it goes, the Range Rover is a sure fire way to intimidate other road users- and just like Mightyena- the Range Rover can travel long distances without getting out of breath.


Pokémon GO will be released this weekend in the Philippines, so get ready to “catch ’em all”!

All-New Globe Switch App Gives All the Hottest Apps and Mobile Internet Deals at the Flick of a Switch

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Globe Prepaid/TM customers get to try the best app deals, and track their data usage

The exponential growth of smartphones and mobile data usage has customers constantly searching for premium online deals that will give them the most value for their money – from free app access to mobile data bundles.

With all these in mind, Globe gives customers another reason to enjoy their digital lifestyle with the all-new Globe Switch App! This all in-one-app solution gives Globe Prepaid/TM customers affordable access to the hottest apps and lets them discover the best online deals. In addition to the exclusive mobile offers, Globe Switch sets itself apart with its data management and usage tracking capabilities

Globe Senior Vice President for Consumer Mobile Business, Issa Cabreira said, “Giving our customers an enriched and immersive digital lifestyle entails giving them full control of their access and spending. Globe Switch solves that need by curating a great selection of trending app deals and at the same time giving users a way to understand their usage and freeing them from unwanted charges.”

Globe Switch is designed with three main functions: OFFERS, CONTROL and USAGE. Under Offers are the best app deals that are only exclusive within Globe Switch. These deals are ready for download, ideal for those new to navigating online and using mobile data. Users can freely try and purchase these deals at a more affordable price. Globe Switch is your gateway to more than 3 GB worth of access to over 50 of the most popular apps. Purchases are conveniently charged to ones prepaid load, while some apps are permanently FREE to explore.

With the Control feature, users are given a way to properly regulate which applications consume data charges. Certain apps can be turned on or off, preventing unexpected data consumption from some apps that are rarely used. The Usage feature gives visibility into how much mobile data and WIFI each app is consuming on an hourly, daily and 12-day basis, alongside a data saving mode. Also, upon opening an app that consumes data, Globe Switch will automatically notify the customer on how long they want to use the app and consume data.

From hot deals and trending apps, to data usage, control and tracking, Globe Switch gives customers more confidence to discover and explore amazing deals online! As a special launch treat, starting July 21 and for a limited time only, Globe is giving the first 500,000 Globe Switch users free 5 days access to the app of their choice! Users can avail of the "Special Launch Day Treat" option under the OFFERS tab to choose their free app.

Currently some of the apps available to access on Globe Switch include Skype, Grab, Waze, Clash Royale, Clash of Clans, Candy Crush, Musical.ly, Smule, Spotify, Zalora, Lazada, Pinterest, Instagram, and Snapchat, among others.

Globe Switch is free and available for download on Google Playstore. To learn more about Globe Prepaid and its latest offers, visitwww.globe.com.ph/Prepaid. Globe Switch is also available for TM subscribers.

Two Like Minds: Senator Hontiveros Meets with Health Secretary Ubial

Wazzup Pilipinas!

A meeting of two like minds.

Senator Risa Hontiveros today met with Health Secretary Paulyn Ubial to explore ways of cooperation in advancing healthcare agenda in the Senate, three days before the first State of the Nation Address [SONA] of President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday.

Hontiveros, a former PhilHealth Director, said that she and Sec. Ubial have agreed that cooperation between the executive and legislative branches is important.

“Para masigurong ang mga batas ay tumugon at napapanahon, kailangan talaga mag-usap ang ehekutibo at lehislatibo”, Sen. Hontiveros remarked in a statement.

During the meeting, the Health Secretary and the Senator discussed legislative proposals including increase in salary for health personnel and mandatory allocation of 5% of local government funds for healthcare services.

The Senator has expressed optimism in working with the Department of Health [DOH] for her agenda in the Senate.

“Secretary Ubial and I have worked together during the Reproductive Health law campaign. I am looking forward to continue working with her and fellow health advocates”, Senator Hontiveros concluded.

Azkals and Global FC Star Misagh Bahadoran Will Judge WSOF Global 's Ring Girl Contest

Wazzup Pilipinas!

World Series of Fighting – Global Championship (WSOF-GC) will conclude its international ring girl search in the Philippines this Saturday, July 23, 2016. The final judging will be held July 23 at 4 p.m. at the 2nd Floor of the Gateway Mall (near Pizza Hut), located at the Araneta Center.

Philippine Azkals and Global FC football superstar Misagh Bahadoran, who is also currently Folded & Hung’s newest model, will be the celebrity judge. Other judges include World Series of Fighting Global owner Dunesa Hesser and blogger Jared Baliguat.

Also on Sunday, July 24, there will be an autograph signing from 4-6p.m. with all the 5 Philippine MMA fighters competing for Fight Night on July 30. Fighters Jujeath Nagaowa, Jenelyn Olsim, Neil Larano, Jessan dela Pena and Mario Sismundo will be there for their fans to sign posters that will be given away for free. Event will be held at the 2nd Floor of the Gateway Mall (near Pizza Hut), located at the Araneta Center.

WSOF-GC will host WSOF-GC 3 Philippines at Smart Araneta Coliseum on July 30, 2016. Tickets start at PHP300 with ringside seats available for PHP4000. Tickets are now on sale at http://www.etix.com/ticket/p/2988982/wsof-global-championship-3philippines-quezon-city-smart-araneta-coliseum. Smart Araneta Coliseum has been host to many great events over the years, but is most notably known for Ali vs Frazier III ‘The Thrilla in Manila’.

A lucky member of the audience on July 30, 2016 at Smart Araneta Coliseum will win P1,000,000.00. Visitwww.wsofgc.com/raffle for details. Promo period June 16 - July 30, 2016, DTI-NCR PERMIT #6130.

The House Cup Series 2016: It All Ends

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Calling all wizards, witches and muggles alike! Portkey Events presents: The House Cup Series 2016!

The saga concludes as we join Harry Potter in his last stand against Voldemort through challenging games and exciting new activities designed to test your Wizarding knowledge and skills! Participate and get a chance to earn House points and House pride, whether you are a Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw or Hufflepuff.

Following the success of the first four installments of The House Cup Series ("Find the Sorcerer's Stone,” "Open the Chamber of Secrets," “Save Sirius Black” & “Join the Triwizard Tournament”), Portkey Events

now brings you "It All Ends" – the exciting end to the 3 final epic stories in Harry’s adventures at Hogwarts and beyond. Register now! Wands at the ready!

Venue: 5th Level Top Shelf (Fully Booked, Bonifacio High Street)

Register here now: http://goo.gl/forms/UAJsslX1RLnLzp0t1 Call/text 09178410013 IG: @portkeyevents portkeyevents.com

Book Launch: The Long Journey to Peace and Prosperity in Mindanao

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Asia Young Designer Award (AYDA) 2016 Holds Media Launch

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Nippon Paint (Coatings) Philippines' Asia Young Designer Award (AYDA) for 2016 recently had a media launch on July 21, 2016 at the Manila Peninsula Hotel. 

The competition was previously called the Nippon Paint Young Designer Award (NPYDA) which has now stepped into a whole new level of competition by expanding its network to 15 countries and relaunching it as the Asia Young Designer Award (AYDA). This year, AYDA will be extended to three additional countries, namely Sri Lanka, India and Taiwan.

First launched in 2008, the competition aims to inspire interior design and architectural students to apply creativity and innovation in the implementation of design. It started off with just Malaysia and expanded to 11 other countries in 2015 namely: Philippines, Singapore, Bangladesh, Thailand, Pakistan, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Vietnam, China, Japan, and Hong Kong. 

Be Bold. Be Free. Be You is the theme for this year’s competition.

Be Bold: Take on challenges and concepts that are out of the ordinary, break out from conventional ways.

Be Free : There is nothing for you to lose, think beyond conservativeness and deliver ideas without boundaries 

Be You: AYDA is a platform that rewards expressions of individuality. Unleash your creativity and let us nurture it together.

Globe Scores PCC for Inconsistency of Applying Rules

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Globe Telecom decries the decision of the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) to treat the P70B deal it entered with PLDT and San Miguel differently from the others when the said transaction was clearly within the safe harbor period of the PCC.

Under the then transitory rules of the PCC, this transaction which happened on May 30 needed only a notice to the PCC and should be “deemed approved” and not subject to review. Stating that this transaction should still be subject to review despite its own rules, the PCC has changed the rules suddenly in the middle of a game and acted on it whimsically, Globe Telecom said.

Froilan Castelo, Globe General Counsel, expressed the company’s frustration on how PCC is handling the SMC transaction. “We are not against PCC to do its mandate but what we are opposing is the inconsistent policy in implementing its rules and regulations,” Castelo said. Globe has invited the PCC to investigate the conduct and behavior of the companies in the transaction as part of the PCC’s plenary powers, but the fact remains that the transaction should be “deemed approved”.

Castelo said that this does not make good regulatory sense as rules and regulations should be clear and consistent, whereby business can make good business decisions based on such.

Castelo further noted that the PCC also invited the public to comment on this case, considering that this is one involving the adjudication of rights of parties. “This is highly irregular as government agencies like the PCC can only validly conduct public consultations in the exercise of their rule­making powers. Certainly, the transaction we have is adjudicatory in nature involving the rights of private parties, and the PCC is in no way performing as if to issue new guidelines and implementing rules for the benefit of the public”.

Globe has strictly followed the provisions of Sections 4 and 5 of the PCC Memorandum Circular No. 16­002 before the deal was closed last May. Under the MC, the deal is deemed approved if they are “consummated after the effectivity of the memorandum circular but before the effectivity of the implementing rules and regulations.” The PCC however chose to disregard this and took the position it is not bound by its own rules.

Globe vowed to continue improving the state of the internet in the country by rolling out using the co-­used spectrum. It is activating the 700 MHz frequency spectrum in 500 based stations nationwide and using its additional allocation in the 2600 MHz band to provide additional layer for its Long Term Evolution (LTE network) for faster data connectivity.   

Youth to Duterte: Honor Paris Agreement to Secure Our Future

Wazzup Pilipinas!

A youth group on Wednesday appealed to President Rodrigo Duterte to push for the ratification of the historic Paris Agreement that aims to limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius (36F) and strive to keep temperatures at 1.5C above pre-industrial levels.

"We appeal to our new president to reconsider his position on the Paris Agreement. Ratifying the Paris agreement is not just about honoring our word to the international community; it is about giving the youth a chance to live freely without fear of super-disasters like the recent super-typhoon Haiyan. The Paris agreement is about securing the future of the Filipino youth," said Rafaela David, chairperson of Akbayan Youth.

The youth groups further emphasized how the Philippines must maintain its leadership in the issue, as it has done in the past years.

"We may be a small nation, but we have stood up for what is right by our people, and successfully rallied other nations most affected by climate change to fight for international solidarity in the face of catastrophic changes in our environment. Why then would we renegade on our commitment when victory is close at hand? Kumbaga sa basketball, panalo ka na sana, kaso pinasa mo pa sa kabilang team ang bola”.

The youth groups also urged congress to call for the immediate ratification of the agreement.

"We also call on our legislators to be proactive in ensuring the ratification of the Paris agreement. Even as they wait for the President to transmit the treat to the legislative branch, we hope they do not dampen the hope of the youth, and put in their weight to ensure that the Paris agreement is ratified. By doing so, we are assured that the future of the youth is at the center of their agenda," concluded David.

The Paris agreement was agreed and signed by 195 countries after years of failed negotiations. It will only be considered binding if at least 55 nation-states ratify it by 21 April 2017. Delegates of Akbayan Youth joined the civil society network that monitored the agreement in Paris, France last December 2015.

Style and Comfort Come Together with the Guess Kids 2016 Collection

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Guess Kids 2016 collection features an assortment of lightweight clothes perfect for boys and girls who live in a tropical country. Items from the collection let free-spirited kids have fun and stay in action while maintaining comfort and style.

Guess Kids for girls offers punchy lace eyelet rompers, street-smart sleeveless hoodie and shorts set, timeless denim dresses, and whimsical plaid shirts with flowy-floral prints at the back. Basics like shorts, pants, dresses and denims all in various colors are classic pieces that are given a fun twist.

For the boys, Guess Kids serves some sporty spirit with its screen tee and short sets, mesh crew with stripe screens, and knit shorts. Color blocked shirts, printed polo shirts, and screen tops with mesh panels highlight a more updated look.

To showcase the Guess Kids lifestyle, this latest collection features an array of joyful boys and girls photographed in sunny California alongside Malibu’s breathtaking beaches. The soft sand, lush palm trees and piercing blue waters are the perfect setting for these children, enjoying their surroundings in stylish, comfortable and wearable designs. 

Directed by Paul Marciano, Chief Creative Officer for Guess?, Inc., and captured by long-time collaborator, Rus Anson, the campaign follows an energetic group of kids playing on a warm California day depicting the same sense of wonder and fun that is embodied by the Guess Kids. The children’s make-believe fantasy is brought to life using an oversized-palm tree hut, cluster of multi-colored surfboards and a ship-wrecked sailboat as key props alongside a mixture of fashion-forward looks featured in the collection.

For more information, visit www.GUESS.com.

Hope in 40 Seconds: A Fight to Save Lives

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Every 40 seconds, a life is lost to suicide, making it the second leading cause of death among 15-29 year-olds globally, according to the World Health Organization. To add, depression is the predominant cause of illness and disability for both boys and girls aged 10 to 19.

With the grim scenario, the Natasha Goulbourn Foundation (NGF) in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH) and the UP Junior Marketing Association (UPJMA), and the support of Globe Telecom is launching “Hope in 40 Seconds”, a 40-seconder animated digital video competition that aims to promote mental health and encourage those suffering from it as well as their loved ones to seek guidance from HOPELINE, NGF’s free 24/7 suicide hotline.

“We want to counter the suicide rate of one per 40 seconds by offering hope so that those who are in emotional crisis and in need of immediate assistance can have someone they can talk to, someone who understands what they are going through, and who can give them the support they need,” said Jean Goulbourn, Chief Executive Officer of NGF, a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing depression to light.

Through animated videos which will be distributed using various channels such as social media and movie theatres, NGF would be able to reach out to more people and provide them with proper intervention so they could veer away from negative and escapist behaviors.

51Talk Now Publicly Listed on the New York Stock Exchange

Wazzup Pilipinas!

51Talk, also known as China Online Education Group, has announced a $72 million (along with Greenshoes & concurrent private placement) initial public offering (IPO) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on June 10, 2016 under the ticker symbol COE. The company is the largest and fastest-growing online English language teaching platform in China, with over 100,000 students in China taking interactive English lessons on demand from a nationwide network of more than 6,000-strong, highly qualified English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers in the Philippines.

Its phenomenal growth has been fueled by the quality of English education it provides through its Filipino teachers, getting only the best of the best with strict recruitment processes. Says Shu Ting, co-founder and PH country manager of 51Talk, “The Philippines has made a name for itself as a top destination for quality English teachers. We at 51Talk go further by having an acceptance rate of 3% for our applicants, ensuring that we provide the highest standards in teaching our students. With this U.S. IPO, we expect to recruit more excellent English language teachers to our Chinese students.”

Being the biggest online English teaching platform in the world, 51Talk’s focus has remained on the recruitment of quality Filipino teachers, proving that the foundation of effective teaching lies in the kinds of teachers they bring on board. Going public means there are bigger expectations for the company to beef up their teaching body, with stringent processes in place, to ensure that online teaching and learning expertise are up to standards.

Cusi to NEA, Napocor: Address Electric Coop Concerns

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi urged all concerned agencies under the Department of Energy, particularly the National Electrification Administration (NEA) and National Power Corporation (NAPOCOR), to "go down to the cooperatives" and address their issues and concerns.

In a dialogue sought by the officers and members of the Philippine Rural Electric Cooperative Association, Inc., (PHILRECA) led by General Manager Wendell V. Ballesteros, Cusi told them: "It should be the NEA and NAPOCOR who should approach the coops, not the other way around. We have to work together to make household electrification happen especially in Mindanao."

Among the following concerns raised by the electric cooperatives (ECs) were:

(1) Ensure right-of-way for the delivery of electricity, including the interconnection of islands;

(2) Push for tax reforms to address consumer concerns;

(3) Non-privatization of Agus and Pulangui Complexes in Mindanao;

(4) Interconnection of SPUG areas to the main grid;

(5) DOE in cooperation with other government agencies to put up a One Stop Shop and Fast Lane for the processing and issuance of permits and licenses of energy projects;

(6) Clear policy in order to streamline the allocation and availment processes of government financial assistance for EC disaster-damaged facilities and EC disaster preparedness, prevention and mitigation measures and emergency response;

(7) Well-defined authority of the ECs in relation to right-of-way clearing; and

(8) EC provision for buffer stock of critical materials.

The General Managers of the coops around the country who joined the dialogue with the Energy Secretary were Horacio T. Santos of Agusan del Norte Electric Coop., Inc. (ANECO); Victor R. Cada of Quezon II Electric Coop., Inc. (QUEZELCO II); Rodrigo Sacedor, Davao del Sur Electric Coop., Inc. (DASURECO); Atty. Carlos Roman L. Uybarreta, 1 CARE Party-List Representative; Rene M. Fajilagutan, of Romblon Electric Coop., Inc. (ROMELCO); Sergio C. Dagooc of Siargao Island Electric Coop., Inc. (SIARELCO) and Dinagat Island Electric Coop., Inc. (DIELCO); Gabriel A. Tordesillas Sr. of Cagayan II Electric Coop., Inc. (CAGELCO II); Wendell V. Ballesteros of Davao Oriental Electric Coop., Inc. (DORECO); Ludovico D. Lim of Antique Electric Coop., Inc. (ANTECO); Veronica T. Briones of Camarines Sur IV Electric Coop., Inc. (CASURECO IV); Reynaldo V. Villanueva of Nueva Ecjia II Area 1 & 2 Electric Coop., Inc. (NEECO II-Area 1 & 2); and Egdon A. Sabio of Misamis Occidental II Electric Coop., Inc. (MOELCI II).

Cusi recommended that a vulnerability assessment be made to ascertain those highly prone areas to disasters to mitigate effects of calamity.

"Organize yourselves for emergency response, submit your individual disaster preparedness courses of action so we will know how to deal what to do when your area is affected."

Gatorade NBA Training Center and NBA FIT Week Kick Off

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Brandon Knight of the Phoenix Suns and former NBA player DeCovan "Dee" Brown tipped off the NBA FIT Week in the Philippines by training elite Filipino athletes and coaches at the Gatorade NBA Training Center held on July 19 at the Gatorade Hoops Center in Mandaluyong city.

The NBA FIT Week is the gathering of basketball, fitness and conditioning, nutriton to share best practices and learnings with local athletes and coaches and highlights the importance of healthy and active lifestyles through the three pillars: be active, eat healthy and play together.

Also at the kick off is NBA Philippines Country Manager Carlo Singson who I interviewed while some training exercises were going on so you may hear some dribbling on the background. I still have to upload the video interview but I released already the video invite notifying of two other events scheduled within the week of NBA Fit Week. You may want to watch the video below to find out where you can watch out for these NBA personalities soon.

They already had the interactive fan event featuring Globe Telecoms's sports ambassadors at the BGC Amphitheater on July 20, 2016. The next event on July 21 is at Trinoma with a full day health and wellness event sponsored by the NBA store, and an NBA Cares Clinic for 13-year old boys and girls from Special Olympics Philippines.

Brandon Knight at Panasonic 4k Pro Ultra HD TV and NBA Partnership Launch

Wazzup Pilipinas!

You can now watch the greatest league on the planet in full 4K glory!

4K Ultra HD video boards are coming to the NBA. The NBA's first-ever in-stadium 4K Ultra HD Center-Hung Video Board featuring the largest screens and highest resolution in the league will be installed inside Golden 1 Center, a new high-tech arena opening this fall. The four-screen display, built by Panasonic, is the largest in the NBA and totals more than 32 million pixels. It's seven times larger than what exists in the team's current arena. The ribbon atop the video board will be 6'3" and the main screens will be over 44 feet wide and over 24 feet tall.

At a re-launch held on July 19, 2016 at the Marriott Hotel Manila in Pasay city, Brandon Knight of Phoenix Suns was special guest at the Panasonic 4k Pro Ultra HD TV and NBA Partnership Launch. Brandon was with NBA Philippines Country Manager Carlo Singson who form part of the panel during the press briefing. 

Panasonic was represented by Shinichi Hayashi, President; Masaru Toyota, Vice President for Sales and Marketing; Satoshi Kono, Director for Sales and Marketing and Chino Galicia, Product Manager for AV Marketing.

TechTalks.ph Partners with US-based Tech Accelerator Techstars for Geeks on a Beach

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TechTalks.ph is partnering with the iconic US-based tech accelerator Techstars, renowned for mentoring hundreds of successful startups or innovation-driven enterprises based on apps or software, for the Geeks on a Beach (GOAB) international tech and startup event in Panglao, Bohol this August 2016.

“We will be partnering with the world’s largest startup organization in keeping with our tradition of bringing in key players in the global stage to a highly valuable yet fun-filled tech conference,” said Tech​Talks.ph founder Tina Amper.

Techstars co-founder and managing partner David Brown and Techstar’s Startup Weekend co-founder Marc Nager will be speaking in the fourth edition of GOAB.

The event is organized by TechTalks.ph and co-organized by the new Department of Information and Communications Technology (formerly the DOST-ICTO) and co-presented by the PLDT SME Nation, ​PLDT Innolab, Ideaspace, and SmartDevNet.

"The partnership with Techstars is a significant milestone in TechTalks.ph’s objective of ​helping ​build the Philippine startup ecosystem," Amper said. She said this will expose the local audience to world-class expertise in startups, investments, and entrepreneurial community building.

Techstars is a great addition to the list of investors and partners that are supporting and have supported GOAB in the past including 500Startups, Monk's Hill Ventures, Greylock Ventures, Plug and Play Tech Center, Ideaspace.ph, Kickstart.ph, MaGIC Malaysia, etc.

​Techstars was founded by big names in the startup world David Cohen, Brad Feld, David Brown, and Jared Polis, Techstars holds 13-week programs for startups in Boulder, New York City, Boston, Seattle, San Antonio, Austin, Chicago and London.

As of mid-2015, Techstars has accepted 526 companies into its program with mentors that include Foursquare CEO Dennis Crowley, Tumblr CEO David Karp, HubSpot co-founder and CTO Dharmesh Shah, and Fred Wilson of Union Square Ventures.

“In its fourth year, GOAB will continue to provide learning experiences and business opportunities for both big and small tech ventures. Our partnership with Techstars is a continuation of our local community’s conversation with the global startup arena that we’ve begun 3 years ago,” ​added David Overton, CEO of Sym.ph and Chief Geek of GOAB.​ ​He​ said this will help GOAB, which debuted in world famous Boracay Island in 2013, in bringing positive results for participants as in startups getting funding, corporations finding tech talents, investors finding co-investors, or techies learning new skills in business or tech.

“GOAB is an event that always strives to provide measurable results in business matching, mentoring, funding, and acceleration of startups by the community for the community. Having Techstars at GOAB will be a big boost to the local startup ecosystem,” said Amper.

Techstars will also be holding its internal Techstars Asia-Pacific (APAC) Summit 3 days before GOAB at the same venue in Bohol. This private event will be attended by over 100 startup community leaders and organizers from all over the region.

A senior government and private industry workshop with Techstars is also in the works for the purpose of sharing the best practices of other countries in developing their own startup ecosystems. Techstars has helped the government of Malaysia, among other countries, in crafting its own startup development plan.

“Techstars is close to our hearts. Techstars is the owner of Startup Weekend, and as such, we in TechTalks.ph worked with them since 2012 when we hosted our first Startup Weekend in Cebu. TechTalks.ph and its volunteers ​have ​organized over 18 Startup Weekends in the Philippines,” said Amper.

TechTalks.ph is working with the Science and Technology Advisory Council of Silicon Valley (STAC-SV) to secure local support for the Techstars APAC summit.

Organized by TechTalks.ph and the Department of Information and Communications Technology, GOAB will be held on August 25-26 at the Bellevue Hotel in Panglao, Bohol. Silver Sponsors are Zalora, Mynimo, Teradoor, and PouchNation while Bronze Sponsors are A Space, Yoyo Holdings, Payoneer, Eurekloud, USAID-STRIDE, US Embassy, Launchgarage, and StarTechUp Inc. GOAB organizational partners are Philippines Software Industry Association, National ICT Confederation of the Philippines., UP CebuInit.org, CedFIT.org, Game Developers Association of the Philippines, Digital Commerce Association of the Philippines, Developers Connect, STAC Silicon Valley and GoNegosyo. Media partners are Auza.Net, Tech in Asia, Geeks in Cambodia, Hubnob.tv, InnoPub Media, Mytechisland.com, Zerothreetwo.com, Jumpstart Magazine, Mobile Ecosystem Forum, Asian Journal Publications, Balikbayan Magazine, Innovation is Everywhere, e27, Newsdesk Asia, and Wazzup Pilipinas​.

GOAB is currently offering 15% discount on its tickets and 40% discount for group of 5 of more. Startups are also encouraged to apply to the 2nd GOAB International Startup Pitching Competition for opportunity to be matched with mentors and investors.

For more information, to sponsor or purchase tickets, visit, www.GeeksOnABeach.com; or contact Hello@GeeksOnABeach.com. Facebook: Geeks On A Beach and Twitter @GeeksOnABeach.

Cusi: Resolve Electrification Issues

Wazzup Pilipinas!

“We have to work together to make household electrification happen in Mindanao,” Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi urged officials of the National Electrification Administration and the National Power Corporation (Napocor) in a meeting on Monday, 18 July 2016.

Cusi asked both agencies to “go down to the cooperatives” to resolve the issues raised by electric cooperatives namely PHILRECA, QUEZELCO and AMRECO, among others.

Among the issues raised by the electric cooperatives were ensuring the right of way for electric projects, tax reforms, non-privatization of Agus and Pulangui complexes in Mindanao, the interconnection of SPUG areas to the main grid and the putting up of a one-stop shop and fast lane for the processing of permits and licenses for energy projects.

In photo with Cusi are DOE spokespersons Pete Ilagan (second from left) and DOE Undersecretary Wimpy Fuentebella. Joining them are officials of the abovementioned electric cooperatives who sought the dialogue.

NEC Philippines Celebrates 20 Years of Success and Innovation

Wazzup Pilipinas!

NEC Philippines today announced its 20th anniversary milestone since its establishment in 1996. Over the past two decades, NEC Philippines has built a strong reputation in the industry and achieved steady growth by providing its technologies, solutions, services and expertise to the public and private sectors.

To kick off the celebration, an event themed “NECPH@20: Providing Breakthrough Technologies for a Breakout Economy” was held at the Makati Diamond Residences, 2F Legazpi Ballroom, Makati City, on 20 July 2016.

The conference was opened by distinguished speakers, including His Excellency Mr. Kazuhide Ishikawa, Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of the Philippines, Mr. Tetsuro Akagi, Chief Executive Officer of NEC Asia Pacific and Senior Vice President of NEC Corporation, and Mr. Jubert Alberto, Head of Operations, IDC Philippines.

The technology-empowered exhibition showcased how NEC is creating new value for society with solutions covering a wide spectrum of industries, demonstrating NEC’s commitment to orchestrate a brighter world through technology that improves the safety, security, equality and efficiency of society. Highlights include NEC’s world No. 1* facial and fingerprint recognition technologies, as well as its transportation, unified communication, healthcare, and broadcast solutions.

“NEC Philippines has come a long way since 1996. The success of the company cannot be achieved without our valued customers and business partners. We will continue to deliver innovative technologies that will benefit businesses, communities and society to allow people to live more abundant lives. We look forward to another 20 years of achievement,” said Agnes A. Gervacio, President, NEC Philippines.

At the event, participants learned about NEC’s thought leadership in topics such as big data, the Internet of Things (IoT), safer cities and social infrastructure solutions and innovative offerings in enterprise solutions.

GoSURF50 Changes PH Index as 2nd Most Affordable Mobile Data Service in Asia Pacific

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The top selling mobile data promo of Globe Prepaid, GoSURF50 was upgraded with 1GB of mobile data allocation to further support customers’ digital lifestyle. In terms of mobile data pricing, GoSURF50 is now the 2nd most competitive offer across the Asia Pacific region at only P48.82 per GB in comparison to top prepaid telco offerings in the region including Brunei, Singapore, India, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia.

The promo offered at retail price of only P50, valid for 3 days, also includes unlimited texts to all networks as well as free access to Facebook. GoSURF50’s 1 GB of data gives customers 700 MB for surfing while the remaining 300 MB allocation allows access to the customer’s app of choice such as Snapchat, Viber, Spotify Basic, YouTube + Daily Motion, Clash Royale, or Clash of Clans.

With 700 MB of data, one can enjoy streaming YouTube videos for 200 minutes; 600 posts and 880 likes on Facebook; 200 posts on Twitter; 100 Instagram uploads; and about 500 push emails.

According to Globe Senior Vice President for Consumer Mobile Business Issa Cabreira, “With the upgraded GoSURF50, we continue to provide our customers affordable promos that give them the most value for their money. Value added services such as free access to select apps as well as bundling core services such as unlimited SMS also allow us to provide a richer mobile experience.”

Globe Prepaid customers can subscribe to the new GoSURF50 and choose their free content via *143#. To check remaining MBs just send GoSURF STATUS to 8888. Customers will be notified immediately upon consuming 100% of the MB allocation.

To know more about the new GoSURF50 visit glbe.co/B1GGERGoSURF. For Globe Prepaid’s latest offers, visit http://www.globe.com.ph/surf/plan/gosurf50.

Hontiveros Files Six Health Bills in 15 Days

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Barangay health workers with no health insurance? That will soon change.

Keeping true to her campaign promise, Senator Risa Hontiveros has filed six essential bills within her platform of universal healthcare, fifteen days in on her first term.

One of her priority bills is the proposed legislation seeking PhP 6,000.00 as basic wage for barangay health workers or BHWs. Senate Bill No. 214 also seeks to provide training and accreditation to BHWs, currently serving in a volunteer basis.

“Barangay health workers aid the community in primary care like maternal and childcare and health education,” said Hontiveros. “But they are not given enough training and compensation for their service”, she added.

Having gone around the campaign trail, Hontiveros recalled her conversations with BHWs. She cited the case of numerous BHWs not being covered by PhilHealth. Hontiveros also served as PhilHealth director until October last year

“It’s a sad situation when health workers themselves are not insured of their health”, said Hontiveros. “Senate Bill No. 214 seeks to remedy that”, she added. Her bill seeks to provide BHWs with PHilHealth, GSIS and Pag-Ibig benefits.

According to latest data, there are 219,433 active BHWs in the country spread out in 42,000 barangays. The former PhilHealth Director sees the numbers as an opportunity: “The BHWs are or first responders. Imagine if we enhance their skills through more trainings”, she argued. The said bill promises a six-month Community Health Worker Education and Program to produce skilled medical professionals.

Hontiveros seeks counterpart funding from the national government to augment the support to BHWs given by local government units.

In addition to her bill on BHWs, Hontiveros also proposed legislations on the extension of maternity leave, strengthening of the HIV-AIDS law and the anti-hospital deposit law, establishment of the National Health Promotion Institute and providing mandatory PhilHealth coverage for persons with disabilities.