#SayItLikeMalacanang: The Best Interpreter for Maxine Medina Goes Viral

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Warm felicitations to one and all this Sunday afternoon. And so we say, Mabuhay!
Many would say that the best interpreter can be found in the Philippines. But we would not limit it to the presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella or the communications operations secretary Martin Andanar, and the rest of the gang who speaks in behalf of the President - though they all couldn't stop Rodrigo "Digong" Duterte from talking shit, they still try their best to come up with twisted interpretations of what he said so he would still look, or sound, good even though he is arrogantly unstable in matters of thought and speech.

Just as how Malacanang would want a "Tangina mo" to be interpreted "objectively" or should we say "politically positive" only for their side (The president is currently stressed out because of lack of sleep and he did not take his lunch), or blame the media saying "Media wrongly distinguished a culture-driven dialect into a urban cursing. This is out of context." We couldn't help but frown and scratch our balls in amusement especially when we were all called as "Presstitutes" - media outlets that are so biased that they misquote the President and the truth of the matter they're all bullshit.

Malacanang would say "We find that there is no instances of cessation of life in the manner ascribed to by naysayers and critics alike." When the President Duterte said "Mayor ang dapat mauna," Malacanang would translate that as "Women should be respected and treated equal."

What followed were "derogatory remarks subsequently laid out by the world never was alleviating; it brought me into my repugnant remnants." That, ladies and gentlemen is Malacanang - Giving us "Alternative Facts" before "Alternative Facts" was ever a thing.

So netizens had a lot of fun coming up with many "interpretations" or "highfalutin" statements out of the obvious, and used the hashtag #SayItLikeMalacanang. This happened because of our Culture of anti-intellectualism or smart-shaming.

The dictionary was invented for things like this, that we may have more things to do than just write things up. Run-on sentences are a must! Identify the event, the subject, tell something about the subject, and then the event.

Let's take a cue from The Palace and exercise our creative thesaurus usage! Below are just some of the #SayItLikeMalacanang showing how witty Filipinos are:

3 Countries to Visit in Europe

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Switzerland

Obviously, the Alps are on nearly everyone’s bucket list and the impeccable times to visit them are late in to summer and early springtime. Switzerland is home to many festivals, also. One of the most famous is Lucerne Festival of Classical Music. In the Italian speaking part of the country, the Ticino, the Locarno International Film Festival is one not to miss in early August where you can watch an evening screening below the stars. Switzerland is simply all round beautiful.

Also, please remember when travelling inside of the EU for citizens in the European Economic Area it is a good idea to get you a European health card. It covers you for whichever medical care you may need, whether you become ill or endure any harm during an accident.

Italy

Italy is the home of some of the most admired and celebrated cities in the world, counting; Milan, Florence, Rome, Naples and Venice. Rome itself has been classified as one of the 10 most-visited towns in the world. The Italian cuisine is extremely popular across the globe and the country itself has an unbelievable historical worth. Most towns are quaint and full of character.



Spain
Every year millions choose Spain as their holiday destination. Culture, sun and scenery are the three most significant features of Spain. Not to forget the glorious nightlife, pleasant community and landscapes. Spain also offers great accommodation, a huge selection and endless attractions.

Kalayaan Residence Hall Proudly Presents PasaFest 2017

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Being one of the university's most diverse melting pot of cultures, housing over five hundred residents from provinces all over the country, Kalayaan Residence Hall is proud to present its annual tourism, culture, and history festival: PasaFest 2017.

Pasalubong Festival, or Pasafest as fondly referred to by the UP Diliman community, is a popular and anticipated event attended by thousands of visitors yearly to take a look at the dormitory residents' collective and individual cultural through booths, cultural performances, and free food. Aimed to show the significance of socio-cultural awareness, PasaFest binds Filipinos despite different cultures and beliefs through immersion and experience.

"Iba't-ibang sinag, iisang araw": this year's theme focuses on unity through and despite diversity. By seeking to produce well-rounded students equipped with knowledge on the importance of innovation, creativity, social awareness, and cooperation, PasaFest 2017 wants to show, not only the university but especially the entire country, that wherever we are from and whoever we may be, we are one: our days are illuminated by one, bright, Filipino sun.

ONE Championship Chairman Promises Fireworks in Organization’s Return to Manila

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With ONE Championship returning to Manila, Philippines on 21 April, Asia’s largest mixed martial arts (MMA) organization seeks to electrify the 20,000-seater SM Mall of Asia Arena once again.

Company chairman Chatri Sityodtong revealed that ONE Championship is preparing a blockbuster event for its tenth venture on Philippine shores.

“April 21st in Manila is going to be a massive, massive event. We are going to have a crazy card for the fans in the Philippines. You’ve got to come out and show your love. We’re going to see some fireworks. It will probably be our biggest event in the Philippines,” he stated,

Sityodtong confirmed that Filipino fighter Eduard Folayang will be defending the ONE Lightweight World Championship title for the first time against a yet-to-be-determined opponent in the main event.

Last November, the 33-year-old Baguio City native pulled off an upset victory over Shinya Aoki to become an MMA world champion after nine years of competing in the sport.

Folayang dethroned Aoki by way of third-round technical knockout, driving a hard knee to the head before unleashing a barrage of punches to coerce referee Yuji Shimada to wave it off.

“In order to become a legend, you have to beat a legend. He did that despite being dominated by Shinya Aoki in the first round. Eduard Folayang showed what it’s like to conquer the odds,” Sityodtong said of Folayang’s stunning victory over Aoki.

“He is going to defend it in his home country for the first time. I want the entire country, if you’re a Filipino or have a Pinoy heart, you’ve got to watch this fight,” he added.

Aside from Folayang, Sityodtong also confided that Ben Askren will make the third defense of his ONE Welterweight World Championship belt in the Philippines.

Widely regarded as one of the best welterweight MMA fighters in the world today, Askren is no stranger to fighting on Philippine soil as he already fought twice in the country.

Askren is coming off a unanimous decision triumph over Russia’s Nikolay Aleksakhin in April of last year, keeping his unblemished MMA record intact.

As for Askren’s challenger in April, Sityodtong bared that an announcement will be made in the coming weeks.

According to Sityodtong, ONE Championship’s matchmakers are working really hard in filling up the bout lineup for its trip to the Philippines on 21 April.

"We’re definitely going to have some of the biggest Filipino superstars back. I hope to see the best and the brightest from the Philippines. I also hope to see Geje Eustaquio and Kevin Belingon,” he shared.

Although the promotion plans to further extend its reach across Asia, Sityodtong admitted that the Philippines remains one of ONE Championship’s key markets in the region.

“The Philippines is a very important market for us. I truly believe that ONE Championship can become mainstream where every single Filipino is enthralled with what ONE Championship has to offer,” he stated.

Sityodtong stressed that ONE Championship sets its sights in cultivating more homegrown talents from the Philippines.

“The Philippines is a nation of warriors. There are still a lot of talents coming out of the Philippines. It has a very rich history of martial arts. So we will see a lot of great things,” he ended.

​For more updates on ONE Championship, please visit www.onefc.com, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @ONEChampionship, and like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ONEChampionship.

Time to End Abusive ‘War on Drugs’ - Hontiveros

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“This style of war on drugs clearly suffers from human rights and legal deficiencies”.

This was the statement of Akbayan Senator Risa Hontiveros on Thursday during the Senate investigation on the kidnapping and and slay of a Korean national in the hands of members of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

According to Hontiveros, the way to resolve the problem on drugs is through legal means and through a PNP that is fully committed to human rights and rule of law. “Ang tokhang for ransom ay hindi isang isolated incident. Ito ay produkto ng isang war on drugs na walang pagtataya at pag-galang sa human rights at rule of law”, she said.

"Galit ako sa ilegal na droga at dapat itong labanan pero galit din ako sa mga abusadong pulis na nambibiktima ng mga inosenteng tao," Hontiveros added.

The senator urged the PNP to reflect on its current anti-drugs campaign before it further harms the public and erodes public trust to the PNP.

"I urge PNP Chief Ronaldo dela Rosa to at least suspend this aggressive style as they clean up their ranks of all bad elements and re-instate internal discipline," Hontiveros said.

It was reported that Dela Rosa admitted that some of his police senior officers have no control over their subordinates.

"Masakit man sabihin pero inaamin ko na marami kaming junior officers na siga, bastos, undisciplined… depende sa degree of influence," Dela Rosa said during the Senate investigation when asked on why Senior Police Officer4 (SPO4) Roy Villegas is afraid of Senior Police Officer3 Ricky Sta. Isabel. The PNP Chief said that Villegas was merely following the instructions of Sta. Isabel on the Korean-kidnap-murder. Both Villegas and Sta. Isabel are implicated in the said crime.

#ReadySetGO! Run wild with Ekobuds GO

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We are so excited to share with you a new gadget that will definitely advocate an active lifestyle, and suit for every moment we’re built to be on-the-go. We would like to introduce to you our first wireless Bluetooth earphones, the Ekobuds GO.

Attached is our press release along with product photos you may use for your blog/social media posts. Thanks everyone and I have a wonderful week ahead!

Cheers,
Pauline Hermoso
Marketing Assistant
Frontier Gadget Inc

Engage for an adventure in the long haul and live with the rush with Ekobuds GO! It’s suited for an active lifestyle, as you can tune in to the soundtrack of your day with hassle-free connectivity. Strut your way with its matte black finish that adds that accent you’ve been looking for your style. Take your daily activities to an enjoyable level with this dust and sweat-proof Ekobuddy. It's time to stop watching the clock and start making all your plans happen. With Ekobuds GO, you can go run wild.

Bluetooth: V4.1+EDR
Chipset: AB1512
Frequency range: 20HZ-20Khz
Sensitivity: 95DB 士3db
Impedance: 32Ω
Play time: 4.5 hrs
Standby time: 120hrs
Charging time: 2hrs
Battery: 80 mAh
Water resistance level: IPX4

SRP: 1470

Available starting February 1 at Ekotek kiosks (SM Megamall and SM North EDSA), Office Warehouse, Anson’s, and more stores nationwide!

#Ekobuddy #ReadySetGO

Hontiveros: Death Penalty Under a Weak Justice System Will Give Filipinos Another Spectre to Fear

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Akbayan Senator Risa Hontiveros publicly opposed moves to reinstate capital punishment in the Philippines.

Speaking before 100 leaders of the Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches (PCEC) on Friday, Hontiveros said that death penalty combined with extrajudicial killings will create a new wave of fear among Filipinos.

"Extrajudicial killings together with constitutional killing brought about by death penalty will only add to the growing climate of fear and impunity in the country. It will further undermine the people's human rights, particularly the right to life," Hontiveros said.

The neophyte senator explained that the government's plan to reimpose the death penalty contradicts its supposed rehabilitation and reformation programs for convicted drug users and criminals.

“The broad scope of crimes punishable by death, including the mere possession of illegal drugs, is extremely bothering. What is therefore the point of building a mega-drug rehabilitation center in Nueva Ecija if the government wants all the drug dependents killed anyway?

Hontiveros also said that she can't imagine how the death penalty will work under the country's weak justice system which is prone to abuse and corruption.

"According to government data, from 1993 to 2004, 71 % of death penalty convictions have either been modified or revoked. This comes from an automatic review of the Supreme Court. Now imagine if the review procedure was not there? How many innocent loves would have been lost," Hontiveros remarked.

Hontiveros said that one of the best ways to protect the people from crime is to radically reform the country's justice system. "Ang kailagan natin ay mga batas at isang sistema na nagtatanggol at nagpapabuti sa buhay ng tao, hindi pumapatay," Hontiveros said.

"Proper and modern law enforcement, including standing behind the protection of human rights and observance of the rule of law, are the best methods to protect the people from crime and illegal drugs. A fast, fair and working justice system is the more effective deterrent against crime," Hontiveros concluded.

First and Only Outdoor Theater Production House, Globe LIVE, Wins Big at Broadway World Awards PH 2016

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Globe - the #1 mobile brand in the Philippines has always gone the extra mile to cater to the evolving lifestyle of its customers. Wanting to give a richer experience whether online or on-ground, Globe expanded its efforts to give Filipinos access to world-class content and entertainment with the launch of Globe LIVE and its concept of ‘accidental theater’.

Through Globe LIVE and its original live productions, content that used to only be available to few, such as theater, was now easily enjoyed by many. By building a dynamic space like the entertainment zone at Globe ICONIC store, Globe was able to open up a whole new venue for more inclusive events.

The first and only open-air theater concept in the country, Globe LIVE had a banner launch with its first ever full-on Filipino theatrical production in partnership with 9Works Theatrical, Green Day’s American Idiot. Garnering positive reviews and acclamations, Globe LIVE together with 9Works Theatrical set the bar high for theater productions given the new outdoor format. Held in July 2016, Green Day’s American Idiot ran for nine successful shows, making it the first successful outdoor theatrical play in the Philippines.

Further validating its success is its recent major wins at the coveted Broadway World Philippines Awards for 2016. Globe LIVE and 9Works Theatrical’s Green Day’s American Idiot gained recognition in 7 significant categories:

Cusi - Furious at CASURECO III's Poor 34% Household Level Restoration Effort

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Despite having 92% status of restored households in Typhoon Nina affected areas, Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi directed the National Electrification Administration (NEA) and the involved electric cooperatives to complete restoration of power facilities as soon as possible.

The Secretary made the statement today upon learning about the latest report of Camarines Sur III Electric Cooperative’s (CASURECO III) slow movement in its restoration efforts.

“We cannot accept CASURECO III’s restoration status at 34% only following all of the combined efforts of the government and the private sector for restoring damages brought by Typhoon Nina,” Sec. Cusi emphasized.

Sec. Cusi underscored that “We want to determine the root cause of the delay in restoration, thus I wanted NEA through Admin. Ed Masongsong to take over the restoration efforts in CASURECO III covering Camarines Sur's Rinconada area.”

In a recent coordination efforts by the DOE, NEA Administrator Masongsong committed to create Task Force Rinconada to take over the restoration efforts in CASURECO III.

Sec. Cusi relayed that Admin. Masongsong already recalled the Project Manager and informed the Board of CASURECO III of the “NEA takeover" which will be implemented this February.

Other areas that the Secretary wanted to focus on are the hard-hit provinces of Catanduanes and Marinduque under the franchises of First Catanduanes Electric Cooperative (FICELCO) and Marinduque Electric Cooperative (MARELCO), respectively.

Maxine Medina Radiates at the Miss Universe 2016 Preliminary Competition

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We have to admit that Miss Universe Philippines Maxine Medina was every bit stunning at the preliminaries of the Miss Universe pageant. She truly carried herself beautifully well. Of course the elegantly designed gowns have something to do it but only a radiant beauty like her can manage to flaunt it like she means going home with a Miss Universe crown soon.

From swimwear, to evening gown, then national costume, we were definitely stunned with what we saw. She nailed it right where we wanted it. Her confidence seems to be reaching us and as far as the farthest part of the venue. That look, that smile, that aura of glamour and sophistication - makes us all so speechless.

I had my eye on her from start to finish. Maxine is beaming with natural charm and sex appeal that you couldn't imagine she is the same lady that many are criticizing for being less fluent with the English language.

But of course we were also impress with the other candidates. Actually, most of them do deserve to be a part of this competition. The Miss Universe beauty pageant should frequently boast of being the top search for the most stunning female in the world...errr..we mean the universe, rather.

The preliminary competition of Miss Universe 2016 was held at the Mall of Asia Arena on Thursday night, January 26, 2017. That's just less than a week before the big day when the judges finally choose their new Miss Universe for 2016 - the one that will take over Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach.

Well, we wish Maxine all the luck in this Universe! We are highly anticipating the results on January 30 when the whole world will finally get to witness who will be the newest Miss Universe.

Partner Photographer Edmund Ong Chua

DOE Backs UN Energy Agenda in Bangkok Meet

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The Philippines expressed full support for the United Nation’s (UN) energy thrusts that run parallel with the country’s own agenda such as ensuring energy security, promoting a low carbon future, achieving total electrification and improving energy efficiency.

Representing Secretary Alfonso Cusi of the Department of Energy (DOE), Undersecretary Jesus Cristino Posadas led Philippine energy sector delegates in the recent meeting of the newly established Committee on Energy of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP).

Posadas told the meeting held in at the United Nations Conference Center (UNCC) in Bangkok, Thailand that the Philippines also backs the restructuring of the commission including the establishment of an energy committee.

The DOE official led high-ranking delegates as Chairperson and topic discussions Moderator of the session on "Energy Transition and Achieving Sustainable Development Goals.”

He emphasized the need for regional energy cooperation and interconnectivity to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7: “Affordable and Clean Energy.”

BPI Vertical Race to Fund Eco-Friendly Village

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Employees of the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) tackled 20 flights of stairs plus a host of grueling physical and mental challenges in the annual BPI Vertical Race, which will fund an eco-friendly village in Guinhadap, Masbate.

Over 200 participants climbed to the top of the BPI headquarters in Makati last December 10, 2016, where top male athlete Jose Augurio de Vera Jr. finished in 4:42. Top female athlete Jules Villamor completed all challenges in 5:18, while fastest group ‘Team N’ breezed through the race in 4:24.

The Vertical Race is part of BPI’s employee donation campaign. Launched in October 2016, the move generated P250,000 to support the World Wide Fund for Nature or WWF’s Earth Hour Village in one of the poorest Philippine provinces, Masbate.

“WWF’s Earth Hour Village combines various WWF-tested technologies to provide food, water and energy for local communities,” explains WWF-Philippines President and CEO Joel Palma. Masbate’s Barangay Guindahap for instance, remains underdeveloped due to its remote location. Its people subsist mainly on fishing for food and on kerosene lamps for lighting, prompting WWF to deploy a host of measures to improve local people’s lives.

Lamudi Philippines Names First Ever Academic Scholars

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In a bid to contribute to the community and drive socioeconomic development, Lamudi Philippines launched a scholarship competition aiming to reward exemplary students. For its first foray, a student from Cavite and Pampanga bagged the scholarship grant for school year 2016–2017.

Walter David Villegas, a third-year Development Studies major at the University of the Philippines Manila, and Jaynie Pajarillaga, a third year communication student from Holy Angel University Pampanga bested more than a hundred applicants from different schools and universities across the Philippines.

Both scholars will receive Php20,000 educational assistance that will be given directly to the school to cover some of their tuition fees. The two will also be awarded with a paid internship in any department at the Lamudi Philippines office.

“We saw in both Walter and Jaynie what we see in the Philippines: exceptional, talented, and determined, and by thoroughly reviewing their application documents and credentials we are very sure that we made the right choice,” shared Bhavna Shuresh, Lamudi Philippines and MyProperty.ph’s new Managing Director and CEO, who took the rein of leading the top local property portal brands in early 2017.

“Working in a tech company like Lamudi will be a great opportunity for the two students. The non-stop innovation and learning in the Lamudi office will surely be a good training ground for these budding and promising talents,” Ms. Shuresh added.

ONE Championship's Exponential Growth Reflected in Increasing Social Media Reach

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In the 21st century, social media has become the game-changing marvel within communication. Today, people and organizations remain connected and updated through various forms of social media networks such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and blogs to mention only a few.

Aside from accessible communication, social media has also made an integral impact on many industries like entertainment, business and sports. It has turned into a catalyst for success by empowering people and fueling ideas.

Social media is transforming sports and sports businesses. Although businesses traditionally seek to benefit from hospitality, sponsorship and networking, social media offers greater reach and direct engagement.

By engaging fans via social media, sports rights holders can open new communication channels with their audience that can be measured and valued as a new commercial opportunity with sponsors.

The aforementioned platform has been likewise used by the constantly-growing world of mixed martial arts (MMA). Given how little exposure the sport received in its early stages, its rise in popularity over the last 25 years is nothing short of a phenomenon.

A large part of MMA’s success worldwide comes down to its aggressive social media strategy, with platforms such as Facebook and Twitter aiding its mainstream development.

Since its inception in 2011, ONE Championship has been utilizing the flexibility of social media to promote its unique brand and to tap a wider audience.

Along with the rise of MMA as a whole, ONE Championship has taken the sport in Asia to new heights. The biggest local and global brands in the world have been attracted to ONE and a number of key partnerships have formed over the years.

The list includes Disney, Marvel, LG, Kawasaki, Panasonic, Haier, Universal Music Group and Tune Talk, to name a few. The company’s ability to form deals that are mutually beneficial to all parties has been essential in its growth.

With innovative content and marketing initiatives, ONE Championship has been able to bring world-class MMA action much closer to diehard and loyal fans.

Asia’s largest sports media property has further extended its influence on Facebook, which has 1.79 billion monthly active users as of the third quarter of 2016.

In 2014, ONE Championship’s total reach on Facebook was 75 million. It grew to 926 million in 2016, having an exponential growth rate of 1,134%.

On the other hand, its total impressions raised the bar up high in 2016 with a 268% progress. From 352 million impressions in 2014, 2016 had an astonishing figures of 1.3 billion.

ONE Championship also released an array of informative and in-depth videos in 2016, which gained 130 million views in total. It grew significantly from 312,000 in 2014.

Meanwhile, ONE Championship had 454,000 shares on Facebook in 2016, flourishing from modest numbers of 16,000 in 2014.

At the time of publication of this article, ONE Championship’s official Facebook page has 3,078,730. It is expected to broaden its leverage on Facebook with its blockbuster 2017 schedule.

Being the biggest MMA promotion in Asia, ONE Championship’s ability in producing relevant and top-of-the-line content is undeniable. From short profile infographics, interesting interviews, to thrilling teaser videos, ONE Championship fans have followed the brand and conveniently made the organization’s social media one of the leaders of online sports content.

ONE Championship followers found touchpoints that enabled them to connect with their favorite MMA stars and even interact with their heroes behind the scenes through their posted stories.

Its relevance and talkability among the target market – fans and athletes alike – have furthered ONE Championship’s growth and led its way to becoming the greatest sports media property in Asia.

ONE Championship’s strategy of creating unique content has also helped them build successful partnerships with both mainstream and modern media platforms, which in return resulted to the expansion of its social media audience through captured audiences from one partner to another.

For years now, ONE Championship has been developing fruitful collaborations with leading media companies around the globe, including FOX Sports, Setanta, MNC, Astro, Thairath TV, ABS-CBN and OSN.

2017 promises to be even better in terms of viewership and popularity as ONE Championship lays out plans for new markets.

For its second event in 2017, ONE Championship returns to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on 10 February to hold ONE: THRONE OF TIGERS at the 12,000-capacity Stadium Negara.

The monumental event will feature the absolute best in local and international MMA talent, accentuating a tremendous headlining bout between hometown hero Ev “E.T.” Ting and lightweight veteran Kamal “Prince of Persia” Shalorus.

Hontiveros to PNP: How Can You Implement War on Drugs When You Can't Control Your Own Men?

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"Lumalabas na walang kontrol ang PNP superior officers sa kanilang mga subordinates, tapos gusto nilang ituloy ang war on drugs?"

This was the statement issued today by Akbayan Senator Risa Hontiveros during today's Senate's investigation on the kidnapping and murder of a Korean national involving members of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Hontiveros made the observation after PNP Chief Ronaldo Dela Rosa admitted that many police senior officers are afraid of their subordinates.

"Masakit man sabihin pero inaamin ko na marami kaming junior officers na siga, bastos, undisciplined… depende sa degree of influence," Dela Rosa said.

Dela Rosa made the remark after he was quizzed by Hontiveros on why Senior Police Officer4 (SPO4) Roy Villegas is afraid of Senior Police Officer3 Ricky Sta. Isabel. The PNP Chief said that Villegas was merely following the instructions of Sta. Isabel regarding the incident.

Hontiveros however said that this could also be an excuse to downplay the existence of a conspiracy involving high and low police officers in the kidnapping and murder of the Korean national. "Both can be true. Some PNP superior officers may have no control over their subordinates, and in this particular case, a pathetic excuse to dismiss accusations of conspiracy," the senator said.

Hontiveros said that Dela Rosa should seriously rethink the police force's war on drugs. "The PNP Chief's admission is extremely alarming but not surprising. If PNP superiors have no complete control and influence over their subordinates, it is expected that the government's war on drugs will be gravely abused by its implementors," the senator said.

"Pandora's box of pure evil"

"The kidnapping and murder of a Korean national under so-called Tokhang for Ransom is the terrible consequence of a human rights-deficient anti-drug campaign. The government's war on drugs opened a Pandora's box of pure evil," Hontiveros added.

Globe Blocks More Than 165 M Spam/Scam Messages in 2016

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Following an accelerated campaign versus unwanted spam/scam messages, Globe Telecom blocked more than 165 million of such messages in 2016, aided by the use of a comprehensive and fully automated mechanism to rid its network of unwanted and unsolicited text messages. In parallel, Globe also disconnected from the network last year around 1,700 prepaid numbers found to have been used as a source of spam/scam messages.

“Our new blocking mechanism has proven to be very effective in preventing transmittal of unwanted spam and scam messages. We are now closer, more than ever, to having a spam-free network and the combination of technology, skills, and malasakit to customers made this possible. Notwithstanding the significant progress we have achieved in our anti-spam campaign, the company remains committed in further stepping up our drive against spammers to keep our network consistently free of these annoying and unwanted messages,” Globe Chief Information Security Officer Anton Bonifacio said.

The company’s currently blocking mechanism, which was established in February last year, involved the establishment of a new hardware and software solution that can filter up to 1 billion SMS a day. With the new anti-spam solution, Globe is now able to prevent transmittal of spam/scam messages being sent to the Globe network but are originating from other networks.

Following the expansion of the company’s anti-spam/scam campaign to include similar messages coming from other networks, the average number of blocked messages rose to 1.1 million/day in November. About 75% of such messages originated from spammers using other networks (35% Smart, 40% Sun) while the remaining 25% were sent thru the Globe network, Bonifacio said, adding that the mechanism now covers majority of the company’s postpaid and prepaid customers totaling 65.4 million at the end of September 2016.

To keep its customers from receiving spam and scam messages, Globe operationalized in September 2014 an automated filtering functionality that reduced the number of such messages going through the Globe network. Such mechanism has since been upgraded and expanded to effectively prevent transmittal of spam and scam messages coming from other networks. By design, the filtering mechanism can be reconfigured to address the kind of spam and scam messages that goes through the Globe network.

Aside from blocking spam and scam messages from going through the Globe network, the telecommunications provider also blocks from the Globe network prepaid numbers found to be consistent source of spam and scam text messages. Some of these numbers were subject of complaints reported through the http://www.globe.com.ph/stopspam where customers are simply required to provide all the details of spam and scam messages they received on their mobile devices. Numbers that are verified to be a constant source of spam messages are then disconnected from service.

6 Feng Shui Tips Before Starting Your Business

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Applying feng shui to your business is a great way to achieve balance, calm and even success. Feng shui is an age-old science that can be described simply as balancing man with nature. It’s very common for businesses to apply feng shui principles to their workspaces, habits and schedules. But did you know it’s also possible to apply feng shui before you even start a business? In fact, there are a few principles that you should think about before you consider going into business in the first place.

One of the country’s leading feng shui practitioners and experts, Master Francis Gaw, are giving tips to those who want to delve into a business.

Here are some of his helpful tips and requirements that influence who, when and where to open your business, as well as some feng shui advice on how to keep it going strong.

1. DO determine if you’re made to be a businessman. As they say, ‘Leaders are born, not made.’ According to Francis, so are businessmen. He states, “If your birthday is right (you were born on the right day, in the right year) you might be born a businessman.” The best way to find out is by consulting a credible feng shui practitioner and telling him your exact birth date, but if you’re afraid of the answer, don’t worry. He adds that, “If you are born not to be a businessman but you want to have a business, your solution is to find a partner who is born a businessman.” Additionally, he also adheres to logic above superstition, so he adds that before feng shui, there are two more important things to consider – feasibility, and the human factor (whether or not you know the business well, whether you have the skill to handle it, etc.).

2. DON’T start your business during the Ghost Month. This is a commonly believed superstition, and it still stands to this day. In fact, you shouldn’t start anything during the Ghost Month – weddings, businesses, moving out, etc. This year, the Ghost Month falls on August 22 to September 19, so make sure you aren’t starting your business anywhere within that range. Also, there will always be good days and bad. For example, good days to start a business in February 2017 include the 5th, 14th and 23rd. So consult a practitioner to know if your target launch date is a good one, or a recipe for misfortune.

3. DO set up in a place you’re comfortable in. Generally, when you’re choosing an office space, look for one that is well-ventilated, bright, and relaxing as soon as you enter. If you feel something wrong, eerie or heavy about a place, it’s probably best not to take it – or at least, to have someone cleanse the place before you set up. Arrangements of objects and décor are only second priority to finding a place that’s peaceful, comfortable and good for work.

4. DON’T adhere to all symbols and superstitions. Contrary to popular belief, Francis says that only 30% of superstitions should really be followed. Tumbok sa kalye – not setting up at a t-junction – is a superstition to remember, as well as having crystals in your workplace or even on your person. Crystals release piezoelectricity, which science itself has found to be a positive energy that can improve your temperament throughout the day. Water is also an important symbol, although you should check with an expert on where it should or should not be placed in your office.

5. DO push for sustainability. It’s the only real secret, according to Francis. It’s the foolproof habit – keeping yourself in the market, staying in the know, consistently pushing through both profit and loss – and it’s the only one that’s proven to work 100% of the time. As Francis says, “Sustain your business, and one day you will harvest your crop.”

6. DON’T think luck is all that matters. It’s easy to pretend that with feng shui and good luck, your business will boom whether or not you’re working for it. But even the experts themselves debunk that theory. Francis adds, “Even if you are lucky, if you are not hardworking, what will happen to you? But if you are unlucky, even if you’re just at home, bad luck will come to you.”

In the end, our destiny still depends on hard work, faith and prayer, plus a little bit of luck. As Francis says, we find signs through feng shui. Dates, experiences, and occurrences can point the way, but what matters is that we find them so they can lead us to where we want and need to be.

This year of the Rooster, create success for your business with the latest digital tools from Globe myBusiness. To learn how to make your business better, visit https://mybusiness.globe.com.ph/create-success or https://www.facebook.com/globemybusiness.

Expanded Maternity Bill Reaches Senate Plenary

Wazzup Pilipinas!

A bill that seeks to increase the paid maternity leave of working women reaches the Senate plenary on Wednesday.

Akbayan Senator Risa Hontiveros, Chair of both the Senate Committee on Health and Demography and Senate Committee on Women, sponsored Senate Bill No. 1305 otherwise known as the Expanded Maternity Leave Law of 2017. The proposed measure wants to increase the number of paid maternity leave from the current 60 days to 120 days, and an additional 30 days to solo working mothers. 

"A new generation bill"

Hontiveros said that the last time that the number of paid maternity leave was increased was in 1992 or 25 years ago. She described the proposed measure a "new generation bill" that will respond to the pre and post-natal health needs of different working women and everyday realities faced by the modern Filipino family.

“Today is a very exciting day for many working women. We are now in the middle of our work in reforming our antiquated maternity leave policy by aligning it with international standards, and providing it with a strong emphasis on our women’s reproductive work,” Hontiveros said in a press conference.


"Daddy quota"

Hontiveros said the bill has several progressive provisions aside from doubling the number of paid maternity leave days of women workers. She explained that 30 days of the proposed 120 maternity leave are transferrable to alternate caregivers (spouse, common-law partner, relative up to the 4th degree of consanguinity) including adoptive parents. She called this the "Daddy quota" of the proposed measure.


Available to people in the informal economy

Hontiveros said that the bill also has a provision of 120 days maternity leave for female workers in the private and public sector, as well as in the informal economy, with the option to extend for 30 days without pay.

“This bill is revolutionary. It will not only give due recognition to women reproductive rights, it will also push for a more equal distribution of child care among Filipino families by recognizing the role of fathers, adoptive parents and alternate caregivers,” Hontiveros said.

Under the existing law, women workers may take a leave of 60 days with pay equivalent to 100% of their basic salary, allowances and other benefits. For women who undergo caesarian deliveries, they are entitled to take a leave of 78 days with pay.

The International Labor Organization's (ILO) convention 183 mandates a minimum 98 days maternity leave. Vietnam provides 120 to one hundred eighty 180 days of maternity leave, depending on working conditions and nature of the work. Meanwhile, Singapore, provides 112 days of maternity leave. On the other hand, ASEAN countries such as Cambodia, Indonesia and Thailand all provide a maternity leave period of 84 days

Is Duterte Using the Mamasapano Case to Divert Attention on Tokhang for Ransom Issue?

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Two years after the Mamasapano carnage, families of the fallen SAF 44 still call for justice. The wounds have not healed. The reason is the same one that torments many people in this country who have lost loved ones to crime and terrorism: justice has been elusive. But the buck now stops with the highest official involved in the disastrous Mamasapano raid, and that is former President Benigno Simeon "Noynoy" Aquino III.

The House Minority report on the Mamasapano finds Aquino liable for SAF men massacre. The bloc based its report on the findings of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Board of Inquiry as well as the Senate report that found Aquino ultimately responsible for violating the police chain of command.

President Rodrigo "Rody" Duterte met with the families of the 44 PNP-Special Action Force elite cops killed on January 25, 2015 at Mamasapano, Maguindanao. But the President seems to be diverting the attention of the Tokhang for Ransom using Mamasapano victims. Even the APC said that the issue helped Duterte's campaign leading to his win in the Presidential elections. I remember even before election, Duterte was already promising to open case of Mamasapano tragedy. He is definitely distracting the public. However, the PNP denied that the revival of the Mamasapano massacre investigation is meant to divert attention away from kidnap-extortion incidents involving rogue cops targeting Koreans.

Duterte revives the Mamasapano questions on lack of coordination and even air support. Why were air assets not used in Mamasapano? he asks. "Only 1 question that bothers me:Why there was a war the whole day, di tinawag ang air assets?"

Duterte is claiming that the botched Mamasapano operation was the brainchild of the US Central Intelligence Agency. Duterte tells Aquino to "Let it be brought to the open. It was an American adventure with the cooperation of some and apparently with your blessing. Sinabi mo, pawis na pawis ka sa TV and you were so stressed and you said, ‘Kasalanan ko ‘yan.’ But it is not enough." 

Top Ten Reasons Why PNP Chief Bato is Not Happy with His Job

Wazzup Pilipinas!

“I think General Bato has to reassess whether his leadership sa PNP still calls for respect, he still commands respect over his subordinates, effective pa ba ang leadership niya.”

We were not sure if PNP Chief Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa was joking when he implored "Would the Korean executive be alive if I did not attend the concert?" referring to his attendance to the Bryan Adams concert at Smart Araneta Coliseum last January 18, 2017. But the call for his resignation "to save President Rodrigo "Rody" Duterte from further embarrassment and restore respect to the Office of the PNP Chief has been the trending talk everywhere.

But this guy has an all-out support for the President that he is ready to support the declaration of martial law should Duterte, declare it. The top cop, however, doubts that Duterte will impose totalitarian rule.

Duterte seems to be tough against drug personalities but going easy with his allies. Seems to be a familiar scene compared from the previous administration.

Can the public expect to see a more serious PNP chief? He said he would kill rogue policemen if he could. But that statement is totally a reverse for suspected drug users who gets killed instantly because they were allegedly fighting back.'

"I'm very angry, offended. Kung pwede lang matunaw ako sa hiya. It happened inside the Camp Crame." pertaining to South Korean Jee Ick-joo who was killed within their turf. It's now police against police. If I have my way, papatayin ko 'yung mga pulis [na involved sa kaso ng South Korean kidnap victim]. says Bato. Now that a police seems to be exposing what really goes on within their ranks, Duterte has been quoted saying "I will oppose efforts to make SPO3 Sta. Isabel a state witness."

It Only Takes One to be "The Reigning Brand"

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Mark your calendars as the senior marketing students from Polytechnic University of the Philippines open the gates for the seminar entitled, "The Reigning Brand: Your Victorious Assault towards Promotional Success" on February 15, 2017, Wednesday at PUP NALLRC, Bulwagang Balagtas.

Being one of the top ranking television series in USA, Game of Thrones inspired 'The Reigning Brand' with its noble and grandiose theme. This event was made possible by the 3D Productions, which required time, effort and talents of the project-making body.

This seminar is expected to accommodate 1,200 students from different colleges and universities, faculty members, guest speakers, media and corporate partners and most especially the students from their own, PUP Marketing Department. The registration will start at 11:00 am to 12:00noon followed by the program proper at 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

"The Reigning Brand" was created and organized to heighten and intensify the desire of future marketers in making success a custom. It elaborates the idea of innovative marketing and instilling literacy regarding the strategies behind BRAND'S PROMOTIONAL SUCCESS.

Moreover, the event will be graced by well-known and respected speakers from the marketing field. Other than providing the audience with knowledge and tactics, they are expected to enjoy the privilege of giveaways from our most generous corporate partners.

Lenovo and Resident Evil Join Forces to Captivate Fans with Stunning Realism and Thrilling Performance

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Lenovo, the world’s leading PC manufacturer, today announced a joint initiative with Resident Evil to mark the premiere of the franchise’s latest movie, “Resident Evil: The Final Chapter”.

Resident Evil is the world’s most successful game-turned-movie franchise. The movies have grossed nearly US$1 billion worldwide or PhP50 billion. In the Philippines, the latest film hits the screens on February 1, 2017.

As part of the campaign, Lenovo is inviting fans in the Philippines to journey to the Dark World, by taking part in what promises to be a thrilling and memorable experience.

Lenovo’s Facebook fans can “bite” (i.e. “tag”) their friends for a chance to win tickets to the exclusive local premiere of “Resident Evil: The Final Chapter”. The 10 participants who “bite” the most friends by tagging them on Facebook, will win two tickets each. Fans can participate in the contest from now until January 27, 2017 by visiting this post on Lenovo Philippines’ Facebook page.

For those who prefer to be entertained in the comfort of their own home, blockbuster movies such as “Resident Evil: The Final Chapter” are enjoyed at their breathtaking best on Lenovo’s high-performance IdeaPad and Legion machines. Featuring state-of-the-art engineering, these devices enable customers to fully immerse themselves in any world they please. 

Back-to-Back Win for #Philippines in #MissUniverse is Possible

Wazzup Pilipinas!

I just voted for #Philippines to advance to the Top 12 in the 65th #MissUniverse Competition. With Maxine's current performance, I believe that a back-to-back win for #Philippines in #MissUniverse is possible.

She's doing her best for the country, in return, let's show our support by voting her everyday in www.missuniverse.com/voting and by using official hashtags #Philippines and #MissUniverse.

Let us prove to other countries, the universe rather, that regardless of political, religious and personal beliefs, we are one nation.

This 2016 pageant will be sort of a reunion of former beauty queens because according to Kat De Castro, Tourism USEC, that former Miss Universe title holders will be among the judges. We've seen Dayanara Torres' arrival already in the news. Do you think it's a good decision of the organizers to include them as judges?

#MissUniverse is back in the Philippines for a third time. We all know Gloria Diaz was our first #MissUniverse. But it was only after #MissUniverse Margie Moran winning the crown in 1973 that the prestigious pageant was held in the Philippines. Miss Universe 1994, the 43rd Miss Universe pageant, was held on May 21, 1994 at the Plenary Hall of the Philippine International Convention Center in the city of Pasay. Sushmita Sen of India was crowned by Dayanara Torres of Puerto Rico at the end of the event. Now, just like Moran, reigning queen Pia Wurtzbach will pass on her crown in her home country on January 30, 2017. We are all hoping it will be Miss Philippines, Maxine Medina, of course.

But the choice is still yours! Do you vote and cheer for Miss Philippines, or for the one that you believe is well deserving of the crown?

Invite Good Luck Into Your Life by Celebrating Chinese New Year at Evia Lifestyle Center

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Welcome the Year of the Red Fire Rooster at Evia Lifestyle Center in Vista Alabang on January 28-29, 2017 to attract prosperity and good luck all year long.

On Chinese New Year’s Day, January 28, make sure to catch the Chinese Dragon and Lion Dance show in the Atrium at Evia Lifestyle Center at 4:00 PM. Have your photo taken beside the Money Tree with red envelopes that are symbols of wealth and prosperity, and shop for lucky charms at the Chinese New Year Bazaar. Both are located at the Atrium from January 21 to 29. Also watch the New Year fireworks display on January 28 at 6:30 PM at Evia Lifestyle Center Outdoor Promenade.

Catching a Dragon and Lion Dance is lucky because the sounding of the drums and cymbals purify the atmosphere and chase negative energy away. The presence of a Lion or Dragon scares away evil spirits and brings good luck to businesses and activities in the area. Since Lions and Dragons are symbols of strength and good luck, seeing them perform will make their good luck rub off on you.

The Chinese give away red envelopes that contain money on Chinese New Year because red is the symbol of energy, happiness and good luck. Actually, the color red is more significant than the money inside it because wrapping money in red envelopes is expected to bestow more happiness and blessings on the receivers. Have your photo taken with the red envelopes to remind you of good fortune all year long.

PETA Urges Everyone Not to Eat Chickens: Relate to Chicken’s Fate. Try Vegan.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

"Go vegan! No taste in this world is worth the sufferings and deaths of living, breathing, sentient living ANIMALS. Everybody wants to live. Live and let be."

Everyone pipes up about abuse of pets (dogs and cats) but don't give a fuck about the chickens, cows, lambs, pigs, etc., that are slaughtered for meat every day? Bit hypocritical, right?

Well, animal rights activists from the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) were seen in Binondo, Manila urging the public to avoid eating chickens and opt to go vegetarian. As a form of protest, the PETA members confined themselves in a cage measuring one square meter. Signs around the cage read, “Relate to Chicken’s Fate. Try Vegan. PETA”.

In another country, some members of PETA in South Korea also protested in front of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) near the City Hall, in Seoul, South Korea. Last year, PETA founder Ingrid Newkirk hit the streets of Mumbai to highlight an estimated one million gentle chickens are slaughtered to be eaten every four hours in India.

"Cows, chickens, and pigs are no different from human beings when it comes to feeling pain and fear and valuing their lives,” said Peta Director Elisa Allen. Despite what you think, chickens are not stupid. They may seem to have a reputation for being profoundly dumb, but in fact they are remarkably intelligent and may even be emphatic.

But there are also some scientific research that revealed plants also do not want to be eaten. So what do we eat then?

CBN Asia Launched Superbook Season 3

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The long wait is over!

Superbook is finally coming back on Philippine TV for its 3rd season!

CBN Asia launched the 3rd season of its animated series for kids, Superbook, last Sunday, January 22, at the Robinsons Galleria Activity Center. Superbook premieres on February 5 at ABS-CBN.

For its 3rd season, Superbook will feature different stories from both the Old and New Testaments of the Bible like the parable of The Good Samaritan, and the characters of Nehemiah, David, and Saul just to name a few. All of these are presented in a more innovative 3D animation that kids should definitely watch out for.

“There are always interesting ways to how Superbook presents the story in new ways - how the stories are presented visually and how something that might be complicated is brought down to a way that children can absorb and understand,” CBN Asia’s Executive Vice President-Chief Operating Officer, Robert John Tan said.

“Superbook is really for the whole family, not just for kids. We invite all the parents to watch with their children,” Mr. Tan said. “It’s super entertaining and fun. The lessons are so valuable for children.” he added.

The all-new series of Superbook premieres on ABS - CBN starting February 5, 2017 and every Sunday thereafter, 9:30 a.m.

So, are you ready to once again go back in time with Gizmo, Chris, and Joy? Brace yourselves and join them in their newest action and fun-filled adventures.

Celebrate Chinese New Year with a Touch of Mexico!

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Kung Hei Fat Choi, Compadres!

Your friends here at Jose Cuervo bring you tidings this Chinese New Year. This year, the Chinese Zodiac celebrates the year of the rooster, and in particular, the famed Red Fire Rooster.

In accordance to the zodiac, the year of the Red Fire Rooster looks to be a positive one, with good news and progress to be found in the sectors of love, growth, and wealth.

This Chinese New Year, consider bringing in the New Year with a touch of Mexico. Both cultures are held together by a sense of superstition that is deeply rooted in a tradition that has continued to thrive over the course of several centuries, starting in the sixteenth century when the Manila-Acapulco galleon trade began distributing goods and spices from the East.

The tradition still continues today in Mexico City’s famed Barrio Chino neighbourhood. For over a century, this neighbourhood has become the heart of Chinese-Mexican culture, with shops and local businesses fusing traditional Chinese furnishings with beloved Mexican iconographies, such as statues of San Juan Tadeo and the Virgin of Guadalupe. 

In February 2008, Mexico City Major Marcelo Ebrard and Chinese ambassador Yen Hengmin, inaugurated the Chinese Arch at the Santos Degollado Plaza. The arch stands as a tribute to the impact that Chinese immigration has had on Mexico City.

This Chinese New Years, treat yourself to a shot of Reposado as you celebrate the pageantry that’s made the event celebrated the world over. From the fireworks to the parades, make the most of your Chinese New Year with the best Mexico has to offer.

For the latest news and exciting events from Jose Cuervo this year, visit http://cuervointernational.com and follow Jose Cuervo on Facebook http://fb.com/cuervopilipinas.

"Si Janus Silang at ang Tiyanak ng Tabon" Mula sa Tanghalang Ateneo

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Inihahandog ng Tanghalang Ateneo sa kanyang ika-38 na tagdula: De/Constructing Narratives kasama ang Rizal Library, Ateneo Fine Arts, Performing Arts Cluster, at ABS-CBN sa pakikipagtulungan sa Adarna House

ang

SI JANUS SILANG AT ANG TIYANAK NG TÁBON

ni Edgar Calabia Samar

Sa Direksiyon ni Charles Yee
Adaptasyon ni Guelan Varela-Luarca
Disenyo ng Entablado ni Gwyn Guanzon
Disenyo ng Kasuotan ni Mitoy Sta. Ana
Disenyo ng Ilaw ni Meliton Roxas, Jr.
Disenyo ng Tunog at Musika ni Toni Muñoz
Disenyo ng Biswal ni Joyce Garcia
Galaw nina Delphine Buencamino at Zyda Baaya
Disenyo ng Lathala nina Gab Mesina, Diana David, at Victor Datu

Media partner ang Wazzup Pilipinas

Petsa ng mga palabas:
Pebrero 1-4, 7-11, 13-16, 18, 21-25 | 7:30 N.G.
Pebrero 4, 11, 18, 25 | 2:30 N.H.

Rizal Mini Theater, Ateneo de Manila University

Para sa karagdagang impormasyon, maaaring makipag-ugnayan kay Dean Silva sa 0916-314-5475

#TA38

#JanusSilangTA 

#DeConstructingNarratives

CCP, J&S Productions Co-Present the 60th-Anniversary Milestone Production of 'Noli Me Tangere, The Opera'

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and J&S Productions Inc., in cooperation with Ayala Foundation, will co-present the Philippines' first full-length opera, Noli Me Tangere, The Opera. The opera, which premiered at the Far Eastern University in 1957 and made its CCP debut in 1974, will mark its 60th anniversary with a limited six-performance run at the CCP's Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo from January 28 (gala premiere) to February 3, 2017.

The 60th-anniversary production of Noli Me Tangere, The Opera is chaired by philanthropist Mercedes Zobel.

Based on Dr. Jose Rizal's 1887 classic novel of the same name, Noli Me Tangere, The Opera was written by National Artist for Music Felipe de Leon (“Payapang Daigdig,” “Sarong Banggi”) and was set to a libretto by National Artist for Sculpture Guillermo Tolentino. Both creators, who were obsessed with Dr. Rizal’s landmark novel, finished the opera in 1957. According to New York-based dramaturg Randy Gener, the opera was, however, “not the first Filipino opera ever written. That honor belongs to ‘Sandugong Panaguinip,’ a 1902 work with a Spanish libretto by Pedro Paterno, which was translated into Tagalog by Roman Reyes, and music by Ladislao Bonus. ‘Sandugong Panaguinip’ was a one-act opera made up of five scenes, while de Leon’s ‘Noli’ opera was written in three acts, making it the country’s first full-length grand opera.”

This production, which earlier had critically-acclaimed engagements in N.Y., Washington D.C., and at the Resorts World Manila, will feature more than 200 opera singers, musicians, and crew, 16 scene changes, and a brand-new staging under the directorial reins of debuting stage director Jerry Sibal, a sought-after event designer in New York City, who is also designing new sets and costumes.

The show's score and orchestrations, arranged in the Western operatic tradition with overflow passages reminiscent of Mozart, Puccini, and Wagner, and sung in Tagalog (supertitles in English to be provided), will be played by the newly formed 53-piece Noli Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Herminigildo Ranera.

DOE Imparts To Consumers Effective Energy-Saving Tips

Wazzup Pilipinas!

As part of its mandate to inform and educate the public, the Department of Energy (DOE) released another set of energy efficiency and conservation tips with distinct focus on the consumer.

‎DOE Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi strongly emphasized the importance of these measures, especially with the impending Malampaya Scheduled Maintenance Shutdown‎ by the end of the month.

Secretary Cusi explained, “Demand-side management is one of the measures that we are encouraging our consumers to practice. By doing this, our energy consumption is made more efficient and economical, with the beneficial effect ultimately reflected and felt through our electric bills.”

“When energy-efficiency becomes second-nature to us, we are able to cushion whatever impact may be caused by spikes in the cost of electricity. For example, despite the upcoming Malampaya maintenance activities this end of the month, we can still be able to lower our electricity bills with ease,” added the Secretary.

“These are consumer-friendly tips, very simple and very doable,” Sec. Cusi assured.

The appliance-focused and consumer-managed energy-saving tips have been developed by the DOE, through its Energy Utilization Management Bureau (EUMB).

DOE Rallies Students to Learn Energy Conservation

Wazzup Pilipinas!

As part of its mission to empower energy consumers, the Department of Energy (DOE) headed by Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi enjoins the academe to inculcate the value of energy saving to their students.

“We are here to guide our younger generation who will be the ones running not only the energy sector, but the nation as well,” Cusi said.

“Supplementing the learning process of the students by exposing them to a real-world working environment helps arouse their interest and unleashes their potentials to become future scientists, engineers or energy experts,” Cusi explained.

In the second half of 2016 alone, the DOE’s Consumer Welfare and Promotion Office (CWPO) facilitated the conduct of 11 half-day consumer workshops dubbed as EnerSmart Kids Program and EnerREADY Project attended by various students in Metro Manila.

For the EnerSmart Kids Program, a total of 200 Grades 4, 5 & 6 from South CEMBO, Pitogo, San Jose, and Nemesio Yabut Elementary Schools in Makati City attended lectures and performed Science experiments at the DOE Central Office in Taguig City.

The sessions were capped by the kids’ “Pledge of Commitment” to be “Energy Cost Busters” by practicing energy efficiency and conservation measures in their own homes.

Among those who participated in the DOE program were students from the College of Computer Engineering & Communication and Engineering, STI Global City; College of Technology students and senior high school students from the University of Makati and Electrical Engineering students from the Technological University of the Philippines, Taguig Campus.

More than 200 students were given an overview of the electricity supply chain, including fundamental electricity concepts and a laboratory tour at the DOE-Lighting and Appliance Testing Laboratory.

Meanwhile, as part of the agency’s efforts to mainstream Gender and Development (GAD) in the energy sector programs, activities, and projects, the EnerREADY Project was pursued by the DOE-CWPO on-site in the following schools in Taguig and Makati City: Bangkal High School, Fort Bonifacio High School, Bagumbayan National High School and Gen. Pio del Pilar National High School.

EnerREADY is a Career Talk that aims to promote gender equality in the energy sector, encouraging young students to pursue technical careers based on their interest, passion, and strength in technical subjects and not on gender stereotyping as to the roles of women and men as perceived or dictated by society.

More than 400 Grade 10 pupils benefited from this activity through interactive and experiential learning with the female energy experts who shared their actual experiences, including the challenges they hurdled in order to achieve their career goals.

With the continuing Consumer Education Program of the CWPO, public elementary, high school, and college institutions interested in visiting the agency located at the Energy Center, Rizal Drive cor. 34th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila, can get in touch with Ms. Helen B. Arias, Chief of the CWPO at telefax no. ‎ (02) 840-22-67 or trunkline no. ‎479-2900 local 329; email at energycwpo@gmail.com.
PHOTO CAPTION: ENERGY READY STUDENTS: DOE-Consumer Welfare and Promotion Office staff led by Helen B. Arias with Engr. Arlyb Joy R. Pestana and Engr. Pia Louren C. Gatinga from the DOE-Energy Resource Development Bureau;  Engr. Eduardo B. Fernandez of the DOE-Electric Power Industry Management Bureau and Engr. Martha Isabel S. Dealino and Engr. Katrina Mae S. Royo from the Manila Electric Company as guest resource persons pose after the ENEReady: A Career Talk on Breaking Gender Stereotypes in the Energy Workforce last  24 November in Fort Bonifacio High School, Makati City.

Socialites Production Proudly Presents "Marketing on Fleek: The Art of Captivating Millennials"

Wazzup Pilipinas!

SHOUTOUT TO ALL THE MILLENNIALS!

Gather the squad as we take it to the next level. Wear your flower crowns and wake your boho spirit as we bring you the fabbest and most lit marketing seminar of 2017. Get ready to be captivated with something new and trendy mixed with a touch of the corporate world.

Socialites Production brings you, "MARKETING ON FLEEK: The Art of Captivating Millennials"

Let us slay together at PUP Bulwagang Balagtas on February 7, 2017.

#ONFLEEK2017
#MarketingOnFleek
#COACHELLAPARTY

Hong Kong Tourism Board Launch "Best Of All, It's In Hong Kong" Tourism Campaign

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Not only because it's just an hour and a half away, Hong Kong has so many attractions to offer for every tourist who wants to maximize his or her trip for a more memorable and worthwhile experience.

Aside from all the shopping from the numerous large malls, and amusement from all the colorful theme parks, there are so many tourists attractions to enjoy. I've learned at the event that Hong Kong also has many areas where you can hike and camp out to enjoy their mountains or wilderness.

This is why it was not surprising that Filipinos emerged as the number one tourist of Hong Kong. There is no doubt that we have totally embraced Hong Kong as our "quick" and most affordable best choice for our weekend getaways or simply to enjoy special holidays like the Christmas and New Year seasons.

But one of the many reasons why Hong Kong is often visited is also because of its culinary delights. There are so many choices to feast upon that many chefs also go there once in a while to get inspiration for their next gastronomic masterpiece.

This is the reason why the Hong Kong Tourism Board has focused on "food" as a campaign theme to attract us even further to come and visit Hong Kong more often. They've tapped select chefs to become their ambassadors for their Hong Kong Tourism ads with a campaign slogan of "Best of All, It's In Hong Kong", and their list of endorsers included Chef Margarita "Gaita" Araneta Fores, an internationally renowned chef from the Philippines who's already making waves globally for her amazing creations.