Bodyshots 2016 Grand Winners

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Nature and I, we co-exist. Bodyshots 2016. Environment matters.

This year's crop of soon-to-be supermodels competed for the top prize in Bodyshots 2016 held on November 30, 2016 at the Expo Hall of Fisher Mall in Quezon City. Driven, beautiful, confident young men and women competed for the top new male and female model prize.

Bodyshots 2016 is an event of the Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines (FDAP) and produced by Creative Saints in Manila, Philippines.

The finals night was a surge of beautiful new faces and bodies to die for.

"BODYSHOTS 2016 GRAND WINNERS

Renz Maun and Clarice Patrimonio were named grand winners of Bodyshots 2016 Search during the finals held at the Expo Hall of Fisher Mall in Quezon City.

Renz is 22 years old, stands 6'2 in height and hails from San Jose, Nueva Ecija while Clarice who represented Cainta, Rizal is 22 years old and stands 5'9.

The 3-hour long show saw the 34 candidates compete in different categories to test their runway skills and ability to project in front of the camera and the audience.

Hosted by Gwendoline Ruais and Producer Carlo Maceda, the event is a revival after a few year of hiatus. Presented by Glitter.ph & Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines (FDAP), it produced celebrities such as Eric Quizon, Lauren Dyogi, John Estrada, Zanjoe Marudo, Ricardo Cepeda, Francine Prieto, Wilma Doesn't, Lauren Novero, Reggie Curly, Edwin Uy among others." - Missosology/Ferdinand G. Abejon

Bodycon 2016: Gold's Gym Philippines Awards Its Newest Fitness Ambassadors

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The body is the product of the mind. We can train our mind to get the outcome that we want aesthetically. The mind controls everything. Our mindset dictates our future and our life.

All those squats, sumo deadlifts, ab crunches, leg raises, side and walking lunges, bicep and hammer curls, power pulls etc.. finally paid off as the winners of a fitness competition were finally announced.

A big tanned hug of congratulations to the winners of the recently concluded BODYCON 2016 Finals Nights of GOLD'S GYM Philippines held on November 30, 2016 at the Novotel Hotel Araneta Center, Cubao Quezon City.

Hosts of the night were Angelee Delos Reyes and Bobby Yan. providing entertainment was Mateo Guidicelli and the UP Pep Squad.

Plenty of good vibes to all the candidates who have been on the same frequency all throughout their challenges as they journey on the road to the finals of Bodycon 2016. We hope they retain the aim towards inspiring their followers to be fitter and healthier. It's not just about being better than you were before but it's also about helping others unleash the beast within them.

Be thankful everyday that the Universe is conspiring in our favor.

The Bodycon 2016 Winners are:

Mr & Ms Golds Gym Philippines : Joaquin Valdez and Hillary Isaac
Mr & Ms Fitspiration : Culver Padilla and Dang Go
Mr & Ms Golds Gym Staff : Andrew Canlas and Dyan Manaloto

#BodyCon2016

Miss Campus Role Model 2016 Winners

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Congratulations to all the winners at the recently concluded Miss Campus Role Model Philippines
whose Coronation Night was held on November 29, 2016 at the Triatino Theatre in Greenhills


The winners are:

Miss Campus Role Model Philippines 2016 C#19 Kim Mercado
Miss Campus Role Model Luzon C#1 Patricia Agapito
Miss Campus Role Model Visayas C#2 Izella Agbulos
Miss Campus Role Mode Mindanao C#6 Lovely Anne Calupitan
Miss Campus Role Model Metro Manila C#16 Stephanie Magno
Miss Campus Role Model Eco-Tourism #21 Kathleen Tuplano Reglos
Miss Campus Role Model Tourism C#11 Marianne Cruz

Congratulations again to all the lucky and well-deserving candidates and good luck on your next endeavors!!!

Partner Photographer Edmund Chua

Bumper to Bumper XII Bootylicious Babes Part 1

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Bumper to Bumper Carshow is the only carshow that tours around the major cities in the country: Baguio, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Batangas, Laguna, Tagaytay, Cebu, Iloilo, Davao, Gensan and Mega Manila. More cities are adding almost every year.

From a very humble beginning 10 years ago to a breakthrough 10 years after, the awesome journey with their amazing partners/followers, B2B shall forever remain inspired to give everyone a quality event like no other, the Filipino car culture and lifestyle, the connection amongst enthusiasts and the passion of the organizers.

Congratulations to Bumper to Bumper for their recent event on their XII run at the Mall of Asia Concert Grounds on November 25 to 26, 2016.

#b2b12 was a massive success! Car enthusiasts braved the rain and stayed until the sky is clear. The organizers would like to thank you for all the love, support and patience. Much respect to you all!

468 Show rides ( Off Road + Stance + Modified + Motorbikes )
167 car show babes
38 car clubs
41 car shops
And 75,219 spectators

Thank you once again and God bless us all for always!

Here are some of the babes gracing the exhibition of vehicles at the Bumper to Bumper XII. As there are many models, I will try come out with another batch soon:

A Hole-y Situation: Five Remaining Teams Walk a Thin Line in The Amazing Race Asia Season 5

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Saved by a non-elimination leg, Philippines’ Eric & Rona have plenty to make up for in this episode of The Amazing Race Asia Season 5. Meanwhile, Indonesia’s Treasuri& Louisa face tension from the other teams as they remain a threat to win the Race. Can they salvage the situation before they get further ostracized?

Catch the all-new exciting episode of The Amazing Race Asia Season 5 tonight at 9pm only on AXN. For behind-the-scenes clips and extra footage, visit www.AXN-Asia.com/TARA or join the conversation on Facebook at TheAmazingRaceAsia.

AXN is seen on Cable Link Channel 38, Cignal Digital TV Channel 61, Global Destiny Cable Channel 61, Dream Channel 20, GSat Channel 51, and SKYCable Channel 49. AXN HD is seen on SkyCable Channel 247.

#AXNTARA

One Heavyweight World Champion Brandon Vera Stops Hideki Sekine

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The largest sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship (ONE), once again electrified the capacity crowd at the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila. ONE: AGE OF DOMINATION showcased the Philippines’ top mixed martial arts (MMA) talent along with the world’s best fighters. In the main event, Brandon Vera retained his ONE Heavyweight World Championship with a dominant victory over Japanese challenger Hideki Sekine.

In the main event, ONE Heavyweight World Champion Brandon “The Truth” Vera made easy work of previously unbeaten Japanese challenger Hideki Sekine, winning by technical knockout just minutes into the first round. From the opening bell, Vera began to land a series of solid blows on Sekine, who took Vera’s best shots quite well. Moments later however, a thudding body kick connected for Vera, sending Sekine crashing to the canvas clutching his midsection. Vera then put on the finishing touches with punishing strikes from the top.

In the co-main event of the evening, ONE Bantamweight World Champion Bibiano “The Flash” Fernandes of Brazil retained his title, overcoming a nose injury he suffered in the third round to defeat young rising star Reece “Lightning” McLaren of Australia. Both Fernandes and McLaren were very evenly matched, with each having their moments over the course of the five-round title tiff. While McLaren proved to be a live challenger, Fernandes dug deep to show true championship mettle, doing just enough to earn the split decision victory in a grueling affair.

What It’s like to Be in a Committed Long-Term Relationship

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Romantic films always end the same: wedding dress, flowers, and happy faces of a bride and a groom. But what happens after the wedding day? What is it like to live happy ever after? At Russian Brides we asked the experienced couples about their views on relationships after 10 years of marriage. Here is what they shared with us.

Passion wears off. Yes, it’s true. Euphoria, overwhelming emotions, obsession, and romantic dependency – all this gradually fades away. What comes instead is stability, comfort, and calmness. If your relationship doesn’t give you these things, it can be called healthy.

Partners should belong to the same social class. We all love those fairy tales where a prince marries a simple girl. In practice, unequal marriages usually end up with a divorce. Of course, chemistry is a powerful and unpredictable thing and when it happens between two people, they don’t care about each other’s backgrounds. But when infatuation takes a back seat, all the existing differences in upbringing, mindset, views on life, career, and family become apparent.

Spouses should develop together. If a husband or a wife is not interested in self-improvement, eventually the one who prevents the other partner from progressing will be dumped. Sooner or later, the woman focused on children and cooking, the same as the man who spends his free time lying on a coach will become uninteresting for the other spouse. It’s important to have your passions and do something that doesn’t let you stand still. A perfect scenario is to share your partner’s interests or simply not to interfere.

It’s necessary to accept each other. Deep down spouses should totally accept one another for who they are, with their dark sides, habits, and weaknesses. You should let your significant others be themselves. You may try to change them but it should be only an option, not a purpose.

Each of the partners should have time for themselves. Marriage is a union of two independent personalities. Each of the spouses has the right to personal space and time. This is one of the most important principles of a harmonious relationship. You’re committed but you’re free. You let each other be on your own at times. For example, a wife can go shopping solo or cycle to the nearest lake and relax in solitude. A husband can go fishing or spend almost the whole day in the garage on his own.

Partners with similar temperaments have happier relationships. If one partner is calm and domestic and a partner number two is too active their marriage will not last long. Of course, it’s possible to adjust to your partner’s character and lifestyle or even level some differences in a temperament type. But if spouses are polar personalities, it will be difficult for them to live together.

Sex is not the main priority After 10 years of marriage, it’s impossible to have passionate sex and be as romantic as you were at the beginning of your relationship. Even after 3 years of a serious relationship, everything quiets down and goes to a more tranquil level. Sex life plays a secondary part in a solid long-term relationship.

Twitter Announces Globe as First Advertising Partner in Asia for NBA Live Stream Shows

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Twitter and Globe today announced an advertising collaboration for the NBA’s two live exclusive programs streamed on Twitter and for custom NBA highlights on Twitter in the Philippines. The collaboration strengthens Twitter’s live stream strategy in the region with Globe as Twitter’s first official live stream advertising partner in Asia and reinforces the telco’s commitment to provide the best customer proposition of giving access to world class basketball entertainment.

As an advertising partner, Globe will collaborate with Twitter on the live stream of two new weekly NBA shows with first-of-its-kind elements created specifically for integration with Twitter conversation. The Starters Twitter Show, produced by Turner Sports, is streamed once a week for an hour. Similarly, the weekly 30-minute show, The Warmup, also produced by Turner Sports, is featured exclusively to Twitter’s logged-in and logged-out audience. Read more on both programs, which are live every Tuesday and Thursday worldwide on Twitter and connected devices, here.

NBA fans can visit thestarters.twitter.com and thewarmup.twitter.com to watch the programs on Twitter:

The Starters Twitter Show airs on Tuesdays, 11am ET / Wednesdays, 12am Manila time throughout the regular season. Featuring co-hosts J.E. Skeets (@jeskeets) and Tas Melas (@TasMelas), along with contributors Trey Kerby (@treykerby), Leigh Ellis (@LeighEllis), Matt Osten (@StartersMatt) and Jason Coyle (@startersjd), the program delivers their trademark passion for the game with the same fun, entertaining, and engaging content that they provide each week on NBA TV and through their podcasts.

The Warmups airs on Thursdays, 7:30pm ET / Fridays, 8:30am Manila time. The show is a blend of the NBA, lifestyle, music, and pop culture, and is a weekly NBA show that integrates Twitter conversation into every program. The Warmup is streamed live from Turner Studios in Atlanta and is co-hosted by sports and entertainment commentator Ben Lyons (@iamBenLyons) and emcee, DJ and sports personality Ro Parrish (@RoParrish). Both personalities have a wide range of experiences across television, radio, social and digital content, including host and guest appearances on prominent national shows.

"Twitter is where the world of sport is happening every single day, and the NBA is no exception," said Maya Hari, Managing Director for Southeast Asia and India, Twitter. "Ninety percent of male Twitter users in the Philippines are interested in basketball, with 76% of them actively following and watching the NBA. As part of Twitter's focus on live streaming of premium content, we are proud to partner with Globe to promote the live stream game highlights to Filipino NBA fans."

“Our collaboration with Twitter strengthens our commitment to provide the best customer proposition of giving access to world class basketball entertainment. Twitter’s live stream service allows us to strengthen our proposition to bring the best in sports to more Filipinos and in this case, more exclusive content on the NBA. With two exclusive shows on Twitter, customers are given a new platform where they can explore and get real-time updates about the NBA, from the leading teams to the top players in the league," said Globe Senior Advisor for Consumer Business, Dan Horan.

Since the NBA joined Twitter in 2009, the league has built the largest Twitter community of any sports league in the world with more than 23 million followers.

Lamudi Launches Undergraduate Scholarship Program

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Online real estate platform Lamudi Philippines (www.lamudi.com.ph) is committed to helping to drive socioeconomic development in the countries where it operates. This desire to contribute to community development led to the launch of a new scholarship program for undergraduate college students in the Philippines.

Experience Life in an International Enterprise

Students who will soon be in the job market are usually in need of two things: money and experience. Lamudi is encouraging bright, driven, and enthusiastic college undergraduates to enter a competition for a brand-new scholarship. Applicants should be over 18 years old, in their third or fourth year of their college studies, and have a consistent GPA of 1.75 or higher.

In particular, Lamudi is looking for those majoring in Business and Management, Economics, Marketing, Media and Communications, Information Technology and Computer Science, and Engineering. However, those with other majors may also apply. Those who have the most potential will be awarded with PHP 20,000 and a paid internship in any department at Lamudi’s local office in the Philippines. One student will be chosen for each semester for the 2016–2017 academic year.

To complete the application, the first step is to fill in an online form. Students must also submit scanned copies of their school IDs and transcript of records, a letter of intent, and a letter of recommendation from a relevant professor. Applicants must send application no later than December 16, 2016, and the results will be announced from December 23, 2016.

Demonstrating Enthusiasm and Strength of Character

In order to be successful, entrants must write a letter of intent (500 words in length). In the letter, applicants should showcase their talents and their potential. They should express what an internship at Lamudi would mean to them and explain how they would put the scholarship funds to good use.

Working in a tech company like Lamudi demands strength of character. Tenacity, positivity, and a determination to succeed are key. As an online property platform, Lamudi brings innovation and transparency to the real estate industry. Entrants who can show that they are capable of driving innovation in a team will be the most successful of all. If applicants can demonstrate ways in which they have overcome obstacles, this is sure to impress.

A Mutually Beneficial Initiative

Lamudi is keen to attracting new talent, and so this program is mutually beneficial; Lamudi stands the chance of gaining a talented recent graduate, and a student has the opportunity to impress a potential future employer. Who knows – this could be the start of a prosperous career!

For more information on this program, visit http://www.lamudi.com.ph/scholarship.

Wazzup Pilipinas to Receive Hall of Fame Award at NCCAA on December 6

Wazzup Pilipinas!

From being a personal blog, to a community blog, and finally to take on the role as the "Pambansang Blog ng Pilipinas" - a title we initially used to jokingly poke fun at ourselves for our untiring effort to help out our government agencies in sharing their news and announcements, which we eventually took seriously since we saw how necessary it was to disseminate such pertinent information for the benefit of our countrymen. 

Aside from echoing the accomplishments, we also never stopped criticizing as well to remain sincere and in touch with reality. We believe that the people need to know more about what our government is doing so they can be somehow involved in the nation-building.

Wazzup Pilipinas has definitely gone a long way. Our overwhelming journey continues as it never really ends. It will be a book with never-ending chapters that would go on through several lifetimes and significantly sustained throughout history. Here we can say "May Forever!"

We acknowledge that it was never a smooth ride from the very start, but we appreciate every road block and obstacle along the way because it challenged us to either look for better paths or straighten the road we travel on.

We cherish every recognition, as well as every criticism, since they help mold us to shape up and incorporate every opinion towards making our site dynamic and flexible to the demands of valued fans and critics that are actively engaged. We truly encourage everyone to keep the feedback coming.

We are indeed grateful for being a Hall of Fame Awardee at the NATIONAL CUSTOMERS’ CHOICE ANNUAL AWARDS (NCCAA) who conferred to us the ACHIEVEMENT AWARD for our significant and noteworthy success and accomplishment in "MULTI MEDIA ADVERTISING AND OPINION BLOGGING."

"This recognition celebrates the untiring endeavor and dedicated perseverance of an Individual through Innovation, Strategic Thinking, and Visionary Leadership from the public and private sector. This is not only for CEO’s or High Profile Executives but is aimed at those who have made management their profession - who have had an extraordinary impact on their organization's/company’s financial success through forward thinking strategies. As a professional, you understand there are many roles to play in achieving exceptional results, developing strong team dynamics and inspiring others to greatness."

We would like to thank the NCCAA council for another proud achievement for our site.

Needless to say, we owe it all to our beloved readers, partners, collaborators, correspondents, contributors and other individuals who in one way or another has contributed to the success of WAZZUP PILIPINAS

Thank you all for the continued trust.

HMD Global Enters the Market to Bring New Nokia Branded Phones to Consumers

Wazzup Pilipinas!

A new and exciting chapter in the story of Nokia branded phones begins today as HMD Global Oy (“HMD”) – the new home of Nokia phones enters the market. Finnish company HMD will bring a new generation of mobile phones to consumers, with the first smartphone products set to be launched in the first half of 2017, alongside the existing Nokia branded feature phone business.

The launch of HMD comes just six months after the company signed a strategic licensing agreement with Nokia, giving HMD exclusive use of the Nokia brand on mobile phones and tablets worldwide for the next 10 years.

With a leading position in the feature phone market already, HMD has a significant global foothold including Americas, Europe, Asia, Middle East, Africa, India and China from day one. This scale, coupled with a world-class and highly experienced leadership team positions HMD for a truly accelerated start.

HMD has developed a unique strategic partnership model that will see it working with some of the world’s leading technology companies including Nokia, FIH Mobile Limited (FIH) and Google. Future Nokia smartphones will utilise Google’s Android operating system, currently deployed on 86% of the world’s smartphones.

A cornerstone of HMD’s partnership model is an agreement with FIH, a global consumer electronics manufacturing and technology powerhouse that will manufacture Nokia branded mobile phones and tablets, guaranteeing quality of manufacture and innovation at scale as well as giving access to FIH’s world-class R&D capability.

HMD is developing an exciting new consumer centric product range which will focus on innovation, quality and experience, alongside the iconic Nokia mobile phone attributes of design, robustness, and reliability.

The company combines the agility and attitude of a start-up business with the expertise of some of the industry’s most experienced and passionate senior leaders. The HMD Global team is headed by CEO Arto Nummela and President Florian Seiche. Together, they will forge a new chapter in the story of Nokia mobile phones with the support of an experienced leadership team made up of talent across multiple markets.

Arto Nummela, CEO of HMD Global, said:

“Today marks a happy and important day for HMD. Nokia has been one of the most iconic and recognisable phone brands globally for decades. The excitement of re-introducing this much-loved, well-known and trusted brand to smartphone consumers is a responsibility and an ambition that everyone at HMD shares.                                                                                                                                                              

“Driven by the extremely positive reception we have received since HMD was announced earlier this year, we are excited about building the next chapter for Nokia phones. We see this as a brilliant opportunity to solve real life consumer problems and to deliver on the quality and designs that the Nokia brand has been always known for. Our talented and passionate team is uniquely placed in this modern setup to deliver our promise of reliable, beautifully crafted and fun Nokia phones for consumers across the globe.”

Florian Seiche, President of HMD Global, said:

“We believe that the time is right for renewal in the mobile industry. The market is fatigued and flooded with undifferentiated products. Consumers are looking for technology with clear purpose that is useful, exciting and with a brand they can trust, so our approach will focus on true, core user experiences and a dedication to quality.

“With our passionate team, start up attitude, a brand with a 95% worldwide awareness and a unique, asset light partnership approach, we believe we are perfectly placed to forge a new way in mobile.” 

Brad Rodrigues, Interim President of Nokia Technologies, said:

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the enthusiasm shown around the world for the return of the Nokia brand to smartphones. The HMD Global team has the ambition, talent and resources to bring a new generation of Nokia branded phones to market, and we wish them every success. I’m sure our millions of Nokia fans will be excited to see their new products!”

Samuel W. L. Chin, Chairman of the Board, HMD Global, said:

“Today marks an exciting moment for all those involved in this venture. As one of the Founders of HMD Global it has been very satisfying to oversee the launch of our business through the completion of a number of agreements. Through the hard work of all involved we can now move forward with our new business, a new approach to the category and a fresh start for Nokia mobile phones.”

ePLDT Enables Smarter Government Through Digital Transformation

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Governments around the world are now tapping digital transformations to speed up their core functions. This is why ePLDT, Inc., with its ongoing initiative to enable customer success through its dynamic digital infrastructure, engaged in a strategic collaboration with the Asia Cloud Computing Association and PLDT Enterprise to promote cloud computing and data center use in the country’s public sector.

Through its recently concluded Tech Brunch: Digital Transformation for Smarter Government event at the New World Makati Hotel, Jovy Hernandez—FVP & Head of PLDT ALPHA—emphasized that the government also needs to beef up its processes with robust infrastructure just as businesses do.

“Similar to how enterprises are starting to shift their internal and external operations and services over to digital, the public sector has now realized that solving real-life problems with the use of technology is vital to serve today’s ever-changing citizen,” Hernandez said. “We at the PLDT group have embarked on a similar journey. We have partnered strategically with both local and foreign organizations to advocate global best practices such as what we have today.”

ePLDT, Inc. is the digital enterprise enabler of PLDT. It sets the pace for innovation in the telecommunications and IT industry.

For more details, please visit ePLDT’s website at www.epldt.com.

Enjoy 50% Off on Globe Broadband and Bayan Broadband Deals This Christmas!

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Globe Broadband is giving the gift of connectivity this Christmas through a holiday sale, where Globe Broadband and Bayan Broadband plans will be available for 50% off in select areas!

For Globe Broadband, Plans 999 (1 Mbps / 20GB data), 1099 (2 Mbps / 20GB data), 1199 (5 Mbps / 100GB data), 1299 (10 Mbps / 100GB data), and 1599 (15 Mbps / 150GB data) are available for half the price. All plans come with a FREE Wi-Fi modem, with exclusive inclusions per plan:

●     Plan 1199 and above come with a FREE landline with unlimited calls to Globe and TM

●     Plans 1299 and above come with access to Netflix, HOOQ, and NBA LEAGUE PASS for six months

For Bayan Broadband, Plans 999 (1 Mbps / 20GB data), 1099 (2 Mbps / 20GB data), 1199 (5 Mbps / 100GB data) are available for half the price, too. All Bayan plans come with a FREE Wi-Fi modem, while Plan 1199 comes with a FREE landline with unlimited calls to Globe and TM.

All Globe subscribers will have the option to boost their data allowance through add-ons. Subscribers can also extend their connection using the AirTies Wi-Fi mesh for a minimal cash-out fee.

Globe subscribers can further enhance their digital lifestyle with content and device add-ons. Whatever kind of passion you pursue, there’s an exclusive entertainment add-on just right for you!

Binge-watching has never been this easy with access to Netflix, HOOQ, Disney Channels Apps, and NBA LEAGUE PASS. Gamers on the other hand can play to their heart’s content with access to Garena, Steam, Play@Park, Game Club, and the PlayStation Network. Music lovers on the other hand can listen to millions of songs on Spotify and sing along with their favorite tunes with Sing! Karaoke by Smule.

Device add-ons include high-definition TV sets from Samsung and TCL, Chromecast, Apple TV, bluetooth and wireless speakers, headphones, PlayStation 4, and many more!

This limited-time offer is only available for new subscribers starting November 15 until December 31, 2016. For application and more information about discounts and add-ons, you may call 730-1010, visit www.globe.com.ph/broadband, or inquire at the nearest Globe store or through door-to-door agents. Lock-up period of 24 months applies.

PH IT-BPM Industry Continues to Flourish with a Projected US$40B Revenue by 2022

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) foresees continuous growth for the country’s IT and Business Process Management Industry (IT-BPM) due to local and global business expansion. The IT-BPM, known as the local “sunshine industry”, is recognized for its world-class service, contributing to 10% of the economy and providing jobs for over a million Filipinos. With consistent annual revenue growth of US$18.9B in 2014, US$21.2B in 2015, and an expected US$25B by the end of this year, IBPAP predicts that the IT-BPM industry will achieve up to US$40B by year 2022.

IBPAP held its 8th International IT-BPM Summit (IIS) to celebrate the consistency of the IT-BPM’s success in the Philippines and to map out plans for the industry’s future. Promoting the theme, “Accelerate PH, Future-ready”, the summit gathered top influencers, industry representatives, and partners including co-presentor Globe Business, to discuss the strategies that will further expand the industry’s growth both locally and internationally.

The 8th IIS kicked off its two-day event with the launch of Roadmap 2022, which enabled partner associations and technical working groups to talk about its framework. Roadmap 2022 aims to accelerate IT-BPM’s future revenue by focusing on key subsectors such as contact centers & BPOs, health information management, IT & software development, animation/game development, and global in-house centers affected by the industry and on high-impact programs for certain segments. These include human capital, government support, inclusive growth, country competitiveness, SME and startups, as well as emerging technologies.

NEC Enhances Security at the 2016 APEC Economic Leaders’ Week in Peru

Wazzup Pilipinas!

NEC Corporation and NEC de Colombia S.A. provided the Peruvian National Police with NeoFace Watch facial recognition software at the 2016 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Week in Lima, Peru. The software was deployed to enhance video surveillance at the venues where national leaders gathered and related events took place from November 7 – 20.

APEC is a 21 member economic forum established to accelerate regional economic integration throughout the Asia-Pacific region. The 24th Economic Leaders’ meeting attracted hundreds of leading entrepreneurs and political leaders.

NEC’s NeoFace Watch solution is specifically designed to integrate with existing video surveillance systems by identifying facial characteristics from footage in real time and matching them against a watch list of preregistered individuals. When the system identifies an individual of interest from a watch list, it raises an alert, so appropriate actions can be taken by authorities to rapidly reduce the risk of public safety threats.

Cameras that are connected to NeoFace Watch were installed in select areas of the APEC events in order to provide surveillance of access control points, thereby reinforcing the overall security of the events.

“We consider it an honor that Peru was chosen for a second time to host the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week,” said Carlos Tuse Lloclla, General PNP, Executive Director of Integrated Security, State Security Department of the Peruvian National Police. “This additional layer of security provided by NEC’s facial recognition technologies demonstrated our commitment to ensuring another successful summit that would benefit all participants.”

“NEC’s facial recognition technologies have been adopted to ensure the safe operation of national ID programs, international airports and large-scale facilities all across the world,” said César Gallegos Chávez, Peru Office Director, NEC de Colombia S.A. “We are proud to have contributed to the safety and security of so many leading members of the global business and political communities at the 2016 APEC Economic Leaders’ Week.”

NeoFace Watch is supported by NEC facial recognition technology that has achieved the highest performance evaluation in vendor tests carried out by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)*. NEC’s fingerprint and facial recognition technologies are used by more than 700 customers in over 70 countries worldwide.

Photo Caption: NEC Enhances Security at the 2016 APEC Economic Leaders’ Week in Peru, General PNP, Executive Director of Integrated Security, State Security Department of the Peruvian National Police

Voices in Harmony 2016: The 18th Annual Awit-Tagisan ng Batang Pilipino

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Children’s Museum and Library, Incorporated is a youth leadership organization that promotes the welfare, development, and empowerment of the Filipino youth through its conventions, competitions, seminars, and tournaments. The CMLI Junior Council Alumni Association (JCAA) proudly brings you  the grandest, the most prominent, and most sought-after high school choral competition in the country entitled, Voices in Harmony 2016: The 18^th Annual Awit-Tagisan ng Batang Pilipino.

 It's time to listen to the voices that will sing the music of our nation! Debuted in 1999, Voices in Harmony: The Annual Awit-Tagisan ng Batang Pilipino is a fusion of musical excellence and youth empowerment. Don't miss your chance to experience the talent, the victory, and the glory of music on December 11, 2016 from 5:00 PM to 9:00PM at the AFP Theater, Camp Aguinaldo. Witness these top ten choirs as they sing it out for the championship:

·         Colegio De Sta. Rosa-Makati

·         Dr. Yanga’s Colleges, Inc.

·         Immaculate Conception Academy

·         Marist School – Marikina

·         Miriam College High School

·         Pasig Catholic College

·         Ramon Magsaysay High School-Manila

·         St. Paul College-Pasig

·         St. Scholastica’s Academy-Marikina

·         St. Theresa’s College Quezon City

Mark your calendars and join us as we celebrate the endless possibility of writing new musical history.

Who will take home the coveted Aria? Let’s see this coming Dec. 11.

For inquiries/tickets, you may contact our Communication Director, Allen Baylosis (0917 626 3107) or you may email us at cmli.vih@gmail.com

Keep track on the latest updates by following our official social media accounts:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/CMLIVIH
Twitter: www.twitter.com/CMLIVIH
Youtube: www.youtube.com/CMLIVIH

See you at the Finals Night!

#HackingHIV with PrEP Pilipinas: WHO, DOH & LoveYourself Introduce New HIV Prevention Method

Wazzup Pilipinas!

It was a choice between attending the finals night of a beauty pageant or the event organized by this group advocating awareness, counseling and treatment of HIV and other related diseases usually rampant among the LGBT or MSM community.

Now you know which event I have chosen to attend since I believe I could do a lot more good disseminating information about this new treatment against HIV rather than covering a competition to find the better looking and smarter ladies among several other candidates flaunting their beauty for everyone to see.

Needless to say, I felt more happy knowing I could help out this group called LoveYourself which I have been doing for several months already as I share all their press releases and attend their events whenever I'm available. 

I am also grateful that the Department of Health (DOH),the World Health Organization (WHO), and even the Senate courtesy of Senator Risa Hontiveros, are actively collaborating with LoveYourself in their noble advocacy.

At an event held on November 29, 2016 at MyCinema of Greenbelt 3, Executive Director Vihn Pagtakhan, Senior Director Christopher Lagman, Head of AIDS Research Group of DOH-RITM Dr. Rosanna Ditangco, and WHO Country Representative Dr. Gundo Weiler, encouraged everyone to share the newly available HIV treatment called PrEP or Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis to add in fighting HIV. The group also recommends the continued use of condoms since PrEP can only counter HIV and not the other sexually transmitted diseases.

LoveYourself and Partners Provide LegislatHIVe Testing and Ideas at the Senate

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Underscoring the importance of the early detection of HIV for the commemoration of World AIDS Day, LoveYourself in collaboration with the Pasay City Social Hygiene Clinic conducted an HIV testing campaign at the Senate of the Philippines on 29 November 2016 from 9:00 a.m.-5:00p.m.

This is in response to the initiative of the Office of the Senator Risa Hontiveros being the Senate Committee Chairperson on Health and Demography, who is also thrusting for the amendments of the Republic Act No. 8504 or also known as “Philippine AIDS Prevention and Control Act of 1998.”

According to Sen. Hontiveros, the HIV testing day at the Senate aims to encourage more people to look at HIV test as a regular diagnostic tool, such as, blood pressure check-up and urinalysis, to know one’s health status and live a healthy lifestyle.

“An HIV test could spell difference between life and death,” relayed Sen. Hontiveros, while emphasizing the need for such a procedure to generate information that would support a progressive, human-rights-based and gender sensitive policy and programs to fight the spread of HIV and AIDS in the country.

Sen. Hontiveros emphasized that Filipinos can avail free and confidential HIV test from any social hygiene clinics and community centers like LoveYourself. 

Christmas is Almost Here and so are Special Deals

Wazzup Pilipinas!

We all love to get the best out of our hard-earned money. This is why many of us go after the sales, promos, deals, and everything else that offer lowered or discounted prices. We usually find these special offers at bazaars or "tiangges" especially when there are upcoming occasions like Christmas. Malls would often have sales done during payday weekends when many will be willing to splurge to reward themselves from all that hard work at the office. Most millennials now also embrace online shopping portals as part of their routine because we simply couldn't resist items that are sold at nearly half the price from the normal.

One form of getting discounts are with the use of online voucher codes that you could easily redeem at sites offering irresistible exclusive online deals that you won't find anywhere else. It feels so good when we could easily just search for a voucher, webshop or product, then just click on a button to receive the code which we use on the checkout process, and finally order the item that we want. Imagine how life would be more splendid if everything can be regularly purchased at special deals.

Aside from the great deals, purchasing online takes us away from the hassles and stress of having to endure the long queues at the shopping malls, and many times withdrawals at ATMs or banks becomes harder due to system downtime, or the worsening traffic congestion especially in the roads of Metro Manila.

Almost everyone we know do not have the patience to fall in line at the sales counters and ATMs so they end up not buying at all. This means loss of sales for the store, and likewise a negative experience for us since we get disappointed from not being able to purchase or desired products.

If ever we do have the patience to endure the long queues, we cannot deny that our next dilemma would be getting out of the mall and reaching our homes with less frustration.

In the Philippines, what used to be just 15 minutes of travel time from the nearest mall, would become an hour of painstaking driving experience on the road. It's a lot worst if you are just commuting on public transportation riding jeepneys, buses or the MRT/LRT trains. This is why road rage incidents have been happening every now and then. Many are just becoming so irritated in being stuck in traffic, or crowded and overloaded vehicles, for so many hours.

Life is made less complicated when our desired products can be conveniently chosen online containing all the product description details, prices, and other options for add-ons, and eventually delivered direct to our homes quickly. It becomes even nicer when we get to avail discounts and special deals - a big bonus for our online transactions.

Philippines: Lost in the Lion City, Eric Roars in Frustration!

Wazzup Pilipinas!

It’s time to visit the Lion City! Leg seven starts with the teams leaving Vigan City and heading to Singapore. At Changi Airport, the teams must travel immediately to Resorts World Sentosa and find the Sea Aquarium.

At the Sea Aquarium, teams receive their Roadblock task – ‘Who’s ready for an underwater show?’ – One team member must dive into the open ocean habitat, pick a card from the chest showing the name of an exotic marine creature. Their partner from the other side of the glass must match the name with the correct photo of the marine creature. Teams are only allowed three tries or risk getting back to the line.

Eric, Maggie, Yvonne, Mike and Louisa will be diving into this challenge.

Yvonne picks Unicofish and Chloe is able to identify it easily, making them the first team to finish this task. Treasuri guesses Harlequin Filefish, Black Blotched Fantail Ray and Yellowfin Tuna wrongly and they head back to line. Parul and JK identify their marine creature correctly. It’s down to just Eric & Rona and Treasuri & Louisa. Eric experiences some difficulties getting his diving gear to stay.

Once they complete their Roadblock challenge, they must head to Gardens by the Bay East and find the marked lookout station along the Skyline Promenade. At Gardens by the Bay East, teams realize that there are only two pairs of binoculars. Once the team finds the marked lookout, they must head to that building immediately for their next clue. Since JK & Mike and Yvonne & Chloe are there first, they strike up a temporary alliance to search for the marked lookout together.

Teamwork proves to come in handy as both teams quickly find the marked lookout at OUE building. Parul & Maggie and Treasuri & Louisa manage to find the marked lookout without much difficulty, leaving Eric & Rona struggling at this task. Rona thinks she saw a flag at Standard Chartered building and they immediately make a rush there.

Globe, PLDT Sign Agreement to Cut Interconnection Rate for Voice Calls

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Globe Telecom signed a memorandum of understanding with PLDT to reduce the interconnection rate for voice calls between the two operators. This means the price of domestic mobile and fixed line calls between Globe and PLDT-Smart will be reduced, effectively benefitting consumers. The reduction of interconnection rates will not affect Globe to Globe (intra) calls as these are not subject to interconnect charges and are already offered to consumers in an unlimited basis. International calls will likewise not be covered.

Under the agreement, the two telcos committed to take steps to lower retail rates for voice, taking into consideration the reduction in interconnection rates. Both parties also committed to maintain GOS (grade of service) in interconnection. This means both operators will ensure that sufficient telecommunications circuits or routes are available for efficient transmission of calls.

The agreement is related to the issuance by the National Telecommunications Commission of a memorandum circular providing for a reduction in the interconnection rate between the two networks. Under the circular, interconnection charge for voice calls shall not be more than P2.50 per minute from P4.00/minute previously, representing a 38% reduction. The reduction shall take effect not later than January 1, 2017.

“For many years now, Globe has been strongly advocating the rationalization of interconnect access charge between the two telcos. We are confident that a reduction in the cost of interconnection for voice calls will eventually redound to a more robust economy, providing our customers with an affordable and easily accessible way of communication,” Globe Chief Technology and Information Officer Gil Genio said.

A New Family Adventure Awaits with the Premiere of Disney’s MOANA

Wazzup Pilipinas!

In recent years, Disney fans have witnessed a new generation of Disney Princesses – headstrong with a powerful spirit. Princess Moana joins in this new breed of Disney Princesses as her story comes to life in Walt Disney’s new animated movie, Moana.

Moana is an adventure-filled movie about a spirited teenager who sails out on a daring mission to prove herself a master way finder and fulfill her ancestors' unfinished quest. During her journey, she meets the once mighty demi-god Maui (voice of Dwayne Johnson), and together, they traverse the open ocean on an action-packed voyage, encountering enormous fiery creatures and impossible odds.

In partnership with Disney Philippines, new and existing customers on a Globe myLifestyle Plan who avail of GoSURF Share or GoSURF with Rollover are instantly entitled to raffle entries to win two (2) movie invites to Disney's Moana, premiering in theaters on November 30, 2016.

The number of raffle entries corresponds to the GoSURF variant one is enrolled in. GoSURF 999 for example earns a customer 999 raffle points. The higher the GoSURF, the more chances of winning.

Davao IT-BPM Industry to Benefit from Globe Business Davao Data Center

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Growing exponentially, the information and communications technology (ICT) industry of Davao City, the largest local economy of southern Philippines and second largest economy to Metro Manila, will continue its upward trajectory ensuring economic development and providing employment opportunities in the region.

Davao City was recognized in 2015 as the 66th information technology and business process-outsourcing (IT-BPO) destination of the top 100 IT-BPO destinations in the world. This underscores the maturity of the City and the greater Mindanao region of its ICT readiness and capability.

With that in mind, Globe Business keeps its commitment to enabling a digital nation by accelerating the adoption of ICT enabled services across Philippine enterprises, specifically those based in the southern region.

Recently announced in the Wonderful World with Globe event in Davao, the Globe Business Davao Data Center will provide the ideal IT Infrastructure not only of businesses located in Davao, but also for enterprises in Luzon and Visayas.

“Globe Business is aggressively ramping up on investments such as the Davao Data Center to help our enterprise clients achieve local and global competitiveness. Instead of worrying about the maintenance of information, equipment and assets, the data center will secure our customers’ ICT requirements and will allow them to focus on their day-to-day business operations,” said Globe Senior Advisor for Enterprise and IT-Enabled Services Group Mike Frausing

Globe iPhone 7 Customers Helped Create a Global Filipino School in GenSan

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Thousands of Globe Telecom customers who availed of the new iPhone 7 contributed significantly in the creation of a Global Fiipino School (GFS) in General Santos City which allows teachers and students to access 21st century learning within and beyond the classroom.

With iPhone 7 and Globe myLifestyle Plan, customers were not only able to get the phone of their dreams but also had the opportunity to give back to various communities through the Globe of Good bundle.

For every approved iPhone 7 renewed contract, Globe made a donation to selected partner causes which included the GFS program. For this activity, all proceeds went to General Santos City SPED Integrated School (GSCSIS) where one-fourth of the 4,000 student population comprises of kids with special needs.

The transformation of GSCSIS into a GFS not only benefits regular students but also the special children who require online therapy and learning engagements using information and communications technology (ICT).

GSCSIS received from Globe and its customers a GFS Creative Space which is a multifunction ICT laboratory complete with netbooks, tablets, and projectors powered with superior internet connectivity. The Lab can be used in every class across different subject matters to encourage creativity, communication, collaboration, and critical thinking.

At the same time, the school was provided with teacher training to empower the teachers with skills to seamlessly use ICT tools in their subject expertise. The teachers were also coached to share such knowledge to their colleagues to benefit more learners.

“The importance of ICT in education cannot be overly emphasized as it is a necessary tool in improving learning. Mobile internet adoption and the availability of affordable data-capable gadgets make it easier now for both students and teachers to access a vast library of information previously out of their reach. Thus, we are grateful to all our customers who renewed their postpaid plans for the new iPhone 7. With their support, we were able to bring 21st century learning to more teachers and students in public schools,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe Senior Vice President for Corporate Communications during the Creative Space turnover ceremonies in GSCSIS.

At present, many public schools are still missing out on the benefits of ICT, prompting Globe to help address the concern through GFS. The program, which started in 2012, intends to transform at least one school in each of the 221 school divisions under the Department of Education into centers of ICT excellence within the next four years. By the end of 2016, Globe expects the program to be implemented in 80 untapped school divisions in the National Capital Region, CALABARZON, Central Visayas, Northern Mindanao, and Davao regions representing 80 schools with combined student population of about 120,000.

Thus, Region 12 Assistant School Division Superintendent Mario M. Bermudez, CESE, expressed his gratitude to Globe for helping provide quality education to the students in GenSan.

“The implementation of the K-12 curriculum is very challenging to DepEd knowing that there are many trials ahead but then these challenges are lightened by the support coming from our stakeholders like Globe. Educating our 123,000 elementary and secondary school students in the division of General Santos is not that easy if DepEd will do it alone. That is why we are very happy that at last we have come to a point where our partnership with Globe is getting solid, more functional. Our partnership will continue as long as our education officials and our teachers are equipped with the proper attitude, values, and skills. Globe Telecom is guiding us, capacitating us and giving us their support. What DepEd needs to do is to sustain what has been started,” he said.

Bermudez’ statement was echoed by Agney C. Taruc, focal person of Adopt-a-School Program and Brigada Eskwela in Region 12 who represented Regional Director Arthur Bayocot during the turnover ceremonies. “To develop 21st century learners, we need ICT. This is a very inspiring moment because we can now produce global students in a global Filipino school. We want this to be the showcase or highlight of Region 12 and we assure Globe that we will do our best so that the objectives of this program will be immediately realized.”

Based on the GFS impact assessment released by Taylor Nelson Sofres (TNS) Global Market Research Company early this year, digital skills among teachers and students particularly on the usage of mobile technology and computer software, showed marked improvement. Students also became more well-rounded due to increased engagements driven by various pillars under the 21st Century Learning Framework. The notable increase in the presence of ICT equipment also resulted in more students and teachers now using ICT in their daily academic proceedings and becoming more engaged in the lessons.

GFS was recently recognized by DepEd as an official partner for the Adopt-A-School Program which aims to provide quality and relevant education to the Filipino youth through private sector participation.

For TM and Globe prepaid and postpaid customers who want to help public school students achieve their dreams, cash donations may be sent by texting GFS to 21580437 (0GFS) and following the instructions in the text messages. The general public, on the other hand, may deposit any amount to BPI Habitat for Humanity Philippines, Inc., Account No. 2421-0037-45. For inquiries, please email bridgecom@globe.com.ph.