Singapore Airlines and Visa Unveil Exclusive Offers for Trips to Singapore, Australia, New Zealand and Europe

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Singapore Airlines, together with Visa, invites travelers to jumpstart their adventure with its special all-inclusive Economy Class round trip fares starting from just USD190.

Singapore

Together with the Singapore Tourism Board, SIA brings an attractive all-inclusive round trip fare to Singapore from just USD190, for a minimum of two passengers travelling together. More of the Lion City is now also reachable through the Singapore Airlines Singapore Explorer Pass. With a top-up of just USD 48 per person, travelers may revel in over 20 different attractions (worth SGD 420), including Gardens by the Bay, Madame Tussauds, Singapore Cable Car, Singapore Zoo, Singapore Flyer and free rides on the SIA Hop on Bus.

Australia

From just USD630, an exciting Australian adventure awaits those who wish to visit Adelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney. The Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia alliance provides more choice for domestic and international air travel to and from Australia, with attractive and seamless travel options across Australia. Passengers can smoothly plan their trip to various attractions in The Land Down Under and avail of more travel options and convenient connections. All-inclusive one way add-on rates are also available from USD 60 to USD 80, with trips from Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney to multiple destinations such as Canberra, Gold Coast, Hobart, Mackay, Port Moresby, Rockhampton, Sunshine Coast and Townsville.

New Zealand

Those who wish to discover New Zealand can kick-off their trips with an attractive all-inclusive fare of just USD800. Through Singapore Airlines’ partnership with Air New Zealand, passengers can make their adventure more exciting with the all-inclusive one-way add-on rates from just USD100 to either Queenstown or Wellington. 

Europe

This offer with VISA is also extended to European destinations namely Amsterdam, Athens, Barcelona, Copenhagen, Frankfurt, Istanbul, London, Manchester, Milan, Moscow, Munich, Paris, Rome and Zurich from USD 890. The special deal covers options to hop on from select cities to other favorite destinations such as Brussels, Dublin, Geneva, Hamburg, Madrid, Venice, Vienna via SIA’s airlines partners from just USD 60 to USD 120.

30kg baggage allowance, KrisWorld and KrisFlyer

The Economy Class fares come with 30kg baggage allowance, delectable inflight meals and personal KrisWorld inflight entertainment system on Singapore Airlines flights. Customers will also earn KrisFlyer miles that can be redeemed for future flights. Sign-up for free at krisflyer.com and subscribe to the e-newsletter to be among the first to receive the latest promotions of Singapore Airlines. 

Complimentary SGD20 Changi Dollar Voucher & Free City Tour

Passengers travelling beyond Singapore can also redeem a complimentary SGD20 Changi Dollar Voucher which can be used with no minimum purchase, at participating shops, restaurants and lounge at the Singapore Changi Airport. Free city tours await for transit passengers with at least 5-hour transit time.

The promotion is exclusive to Visa credit, debit and prepaid cardholders, valid for sale from 05 October until 31 October 2015 for travel out of Manila until 19 March 2016. For travel out of Cebu, Davao and Kalibo to Singapore and Australia, surcharges may apply. For bookings, visit Singapore Airlines or SilkAir Ticketing & Reservations offices, participating travel agents, or via singaporeair.com using promo code 328936256. 

Singapore Airlines flies from Manila to Singapore four times daily which conveniently connect to onward flights to the rest of the world. For more information, visit singaporeair.com

SIA brings an attractive singapore tour package with all-inclusive round trip from just USD190.

We Found Beauty at Calle Crisologo of Vigan, Ilocos Sur

Wazzup Pilipinas!

We explored Calle Crisologo and other historical sights of Vigan for the nth time and they are still too awesome for our selfies and photo ops.

To match the feel of these heritage home we've edited our photos to make them look vintage, or is the right word antiquated, or historical, or whatever you may call it, walking along the streets of Calle Crisologo is like traveling on a time machine - the ride on a Calesa (not just around Calle Crisologo) is more than majestic.

The calesa ride only cost P150 per hour, but you'll definitely need more than an hour if you would really like to immense yourself thoroughly all over Vigan. We've rented a calesa to tour some sites - from the famous bell tower or belfry near the Saint Augustine Parish Church, commonly known as Bantay Church (because it's located at Bantay, Ilocos Sur), to the Hidden Garden. But we're going to tell the story of each place on a per blog  post basis - meaning one attraction per blog post.

Editing the photos of Calle Crisologo to make them look old gives out the vibes of a century when the Spaniards greatly influenced us - from the architecture to the overall culture. Oh, the Filipino is a merging of many traits and influenced by many races. Though our roots may have been somewhat lost due to the many influences, I guess that's how Filipinos are greatly leading the way towards many achievements.

Cusi: Power Situation in Quake-Stricken Areas Seen to Improve by July 19

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Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi told President Rodrigo Duterte in Ormoc City on Thursday afternoon that the supply of electricity in areas of the Visayas affected by the recent earthquake will noticeably improve by the end of the month.

Cusi relayed the latest timeline on the power restoration efforts in Region 8, Bohol and Ormoc City during a visit by the President and Cabinet members to the quake-stricken areas in this city.

The Energy chief gave the assurance that his department has been working nonstop to normalize power in the affected areas, citing reports by the National Electrification Administration (NEA), National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) and Energy Development Corp. (EDC).

Subject to NGCP’s successful restoration of Transformer 6, “We expect a total of 309 megawatts (MW) of available capacity byJuly 19,” Sec. Cusi announced Friday (14 July).

“These capacities can serve the total demand of electricity for the affected areas of Region VIII (Samar and Leyte Provinces) and Bohol, which is at 291 MW,” Sec. Cusi said.

DOE Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella had earlier called an emergency meeting attended by representatives from the NEA, Region 8 Electric Cooperatives, NGCP and EDC to provide updates and work timelines on the power restoration.

Based on the reports, there will be available capacities coming in from the EDC-run geothermal power plants: July 16 with 269 MW, July 19 additional 40 MW from its Tongonan geothermal power plant totaling to 309 MW by Wednesday next week.

All available capacities by end of July is expected to reach 322 MW.

"We will continue to explore all options available for Leyte, Samar and Bohol islands."

The DOE is also coordinating with the Energy Regulatory Commission to ensure compliance of electricity service providers with the required standards and the alignment in crafting resiliency policies.

DOTr Expressed Full Support in the 3rd #MMShakeDrill

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In a bid to heighten employees’ awareness and preparedness in the event that a 7.2 magnitude earthquake jolts Metro Manila, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) exerted its full support and participation to the third #MMShakeDrill held earlier today, 14 July 2017.

At the sound of an alarm that signaled the start of the drill, DOTr employees, along with other tenants in the Columbia Tower in Mandaluyong, observed the duck, cover, and hold maneuver for 45 seconds before evacuating the building.

“It is very important for all of us to participate in these drills because preparedness will translate to survival when the time comes. ‘The Big One’ can strike at any time and so we must be ready,” said DOTr Assistant Secretary for Special Concerns Eymard Eje.

The DOTr has likewise organized an Incident Management Team that prepared simulation scenarios for the drill, including staged victims and rescue operations.

“Of course our prayer is that we won’t need to face such a calamity, but our employees’ safety is our main concern so we must take every precaution,” added Eje.

On Wednesday, President Rodrigo Duterte signed an executive order including the DOTr in the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). Its main task is to take care of transportation systems during rescue and relief operations.

DOTr-CAB To Give Senior Citizens, PWDs 20% Discount On Online Booking for Domestic Travel

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Senior citizens and Persons with Disability (PWD) may soon avail a 20% discount when booking a domestic flight online.

The Department of Transportation - Civil Aeronautics Board approved yesterday, 13 July 2017, the Resolution requiring local airlines to give a 20% discount on tickets purchased via the carrier's website or a mobile application. Prior to this, the discount was only applied to face to face transactions.

Under the Resolution, senior citizens, PWDs, or their representatives must input the passenger’s details including date of birth and ID number indicated in the Senior Citizen or PWD card.

CAB directed airlines to establish in their websites the necessary system to be able to process the 20% discount based on the actual fare, including promotional fares that were directly sold by the airlines. The discount, however, shall not cover lawful taxes and other fees and charges imposed in relation to domestic air travel.

A breakdown and summary of the amount to be paid must be known to the Senior Citizen or PWD before the completion of the transaction. The document confirming the passenger’s seat reservation or booking must likewise indicate that the passenger was granted the 20% discount for proper verification at the check-in counter.

Passengers who avail of the discount must present necessary identification upon check-in.

The resolution will take effect 15 days after publication. After which, airlines will be given two months from date of effectivity to develop and fully implement a virtual system that would apply the discount on online transactions.

The discount shall not be applicable to tickets sold by virtue of indirect or external sales promotions which contain promises of gain, such as through winning in a contest, game, and other similar competitions which involve determination of winner/s.

Smart Supports Davao City, MM Quake Drills, Deploys Emergency Communications Equipment

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PLDT wireless subsidiary Smart Communications will provide emergency communications support for the earthquake and tsunami drills in Davao City and Metro Manila on July 14, 2017.

The drills, which will simulate a magnitude-7.2 earthquake situation, will start at 9 a.m. in Davao City and 4 p.m. in Metro Manila.

Officials of Davao City and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will signal the start of the city- and metro-wide drills by using Smart’s Emergency Cell Broadcast System (ECBS), which will send alert messages to residents in the area informing them of the activity. To date, Smart is the only telco to comply with Republic Act No. 10639, or the Free Mobile Disaster Alerts Act, via the ECBS.

Smart will also deploy Smart Satellite solutions and LTE mobile connectivity to ensure uninterrupted communications among response units. These services will complement the free calling and charging services for the use of earthquake and tsunami drill participants.

Leading the drill in Davao City are Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, Davao City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officer and Central 911 chief Emmanuel Jaldon, and key participating units. In Metro Manila, the event will be spearheaded by the Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MMDRRMC) and managed by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), and other agencies and stakeholders.

“I encourage all Dabawenyos to participate in the 1st Davao City earthquake and tsunami drill on Friday, July 14, because this will help us prepare ourselves in the event a tsunami or an earthquake hits Davao City,” said Mayor Duterte. “It is our responsibility to ensure that everyone in our communities and our homes are aware and knowledgeable of the things that should be done in cases of emergencies. Preparation, which involves learning or acquiring emergency skills, is critical in protecting ourselves, our families, and our communities. Readiness is key to survival,” she added.

“We understand how important communication is, especially in times of calamities. Our ECBS and satellite solutions, as well as traditional fixed and wireless services, are deployed to affected areas as we recognize communications as a form of relief,” said Ramon R. Isberto, PLDT and Smart public affairs head.

As a member of the emergency telecommunications cluster of the NDRRMC, Smart has provided communication aid during calamities, including free broadcast alerts, free texts, calls and charging, and satellite solutions to LGUs and response teams.

Smart is also a founding signatory of GSMA’s Human Connectivity Charter (HCC), which aims to empower operators to improve their disaster resilience through mobile technology.

Through its #SafePH advocacy and as part of its commitment to the HCC, Smart promotes resilience using technology and communications. The company’s disaster risk reduction initiatives have helped instill a culture of preparedness among its partners and the general public. These include emergency mobile solutions such as the Batingaw disaster preparedness app and the Agos community aid SMS platform, as well as on-ground community caravans such as the Tropang Ready educational series for the youth.

Power Mac Center Goes All-Out for ‘Cinemansanas’ 2017

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A jam-packed second edition of Power Mac Center Pixelworx: Cinemansanas awaits film artists all over the country as the premier Apple reseller goes all-out this year. Among the highlights are Masterclass sessions with award-winning director Brillante Mendoza, a digital short film competition, post production workshops, film scholarship grants, and in-store games, which all culminate in a Grand Movie Premiere at the SM Mall of Asia Cinema.

Power Mac Center tapped Cannes Film Festival Best Director Brillante Mendoza to hold Masterclass sessions and share techniques on how to make movie concepts come to life. The sessions will be exclusive to 23 aspiring filmmakers selected for the extensive three-day acting, directing, and cinematography workshop. Application is coursed through Power Mac Center and runs until July 30, 2017.

In the bid to continue challenging artists to break convention, there will be another digital short film competition for videos shot and edited using Apple devices. Film submissions must be made specifically for the Pixelworx: Cinemansanas “Do you have a Minute Film Competition.” Entries may be about any subject but must run for no longer than 60 seconds. Deadline of submission is on August 25, 2017.

To assist in completing the film entries, Power Mac Center Apple Certified trainers will be holding Post Production workshops on Final Cut Pro X and Logic Pro X. Online registration is required as limited slots are available.

Filipino Standout Danny Kingad Sees Himself in a Future World Title Picture

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Kairat “The Kazakh” Akhmetov and Adriano “Mikinho” Moraes are arguably two of the most outstanding flyweights in the world today, and both men will slug it out for the undisputed ONE Flyweight World Championship title in the main event of ONE: CONQUEST OF KINGS in Surabaya, Indonesia on 29 July.

However, another exceptional flyweight mixed martial arts (MMA) competitor is waiting on the wings to get his opportunity to vie for the coveted gold-plated strap.

A true warrior from the mountains of the Cordilleras and one of the top prospects to come out of Baguio City, Team Lakay’s Danny Kingad aims to cement his stature as one of the highly-regarded flyweights in the flourishing Asian MMA scene.

The 21-year-old Igorot warrior holds an unblemished professional record of 5-0, with one knockout victory and one submission triumph.

Kingad is a tremendous striker, who also possesses solid grappling skills. In his most recent ONE Championship outing, he met a tough test in Malaysia’s Muhammad Aiman, putting on a complete performance en route to a unanimous decision victory.

Part of the talented new breed of Team Lakay fighters, Kingad will have his fourth assignment as a much-regarded ONE Championship athlete on 29 July as he is set to take on China’s Hexigetu on the undercard of ONE: CONQUEST OF KINGS, which takes place at the GOR Kertajaya Arena in Surabaya, Indonesia.

“It will be an exciting fight. I will do my best. If he wants to strike, then I will strike with him. I cannot say I will knock him out, but I can only say I will win this fight,” Kingad confidently stated.

All-New Suzuki GSX-R1000 Wins at Senior TT Race of Isle of Man TT

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The all-new Suzuki GSX-R1000 supersport bike has reigned supreme by owning the roads of the Senior Tourist Tour (TT) of the Isle of Man TT in British Isles of Man recently. Ridden by now 14-time Isle of Man TT winner, Northern Irishman Michael Dunlop of Bennetts Suzuki; a motorcycle racing team supported by Suzuki’s British subsidiary Suzuki GB, has achieved a prestigious win at the said class.

Isle of Man Tourist Tour (TT) is a historic public road racing which started in 1907. There were nine racing classes by displacements and vehicle types for this year with the Senior TT as the most prestigious race; the category where Dunlop proven the power and performance of his GSX-R1000.

At the Senior TT race, the final day of schedule for this year’s event, Dunlop on board the all-new GSX-R1000, which has undergone a full-model change this year, took the lead on first lap and then pulled away gradually from the battle for second place to run alone at the front, finishing more than 13 seconds ahead of the second placed rider.

In another category of the race which is the Superbike TT, Dunlop was able to set the fastest lap time but had to retire due to technical issues.

Chaos Manila Features International DJ Duo Boombox Cartel on July 28

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City of Dreams Manila’s trendsetting nightclub, Chaos Manila, brings in international DJ duo Boombox Cartel to headline the show-stopping EDM event on July 28. The two are set to liven up Chaos Manila’s dance floor with energy-filled electro, dubstep, and trap beats that have made waves in the Los Angeles dance scene and the rest of the United States.

Boombox Cartel, the LA-based team-up of Americo Garcia and Jorge Medina, is best known for their dynamic 2015 hit track “B2U” with Ian Everson. Armed with their sick beats, they continued their unique and innovative sound through succeeding releases such as “Spaceless”, “Aftershock” with NGTHMRE, and “Jamba” with Jackal, as well as remixes of Skrillex’s “Killa”, Diplo’s “Be Right There”, and Cash Cash’s “How To Love”. Since “B2U”, Americo and Jorge have received near universal support from heavy-hitters in the industry such as DJ Snake and Martin Garrix.

In 2016, Boombox Cartel’s single “Colors” garnered more than 250,000 plays on its first week in music streaming site SoundCloud. The quickly rising duo’s latest EP album called Cartel was released this year with five fresh tracks, including infectious songs “Widdit” and “Jefe”.

Americo and Jorge met in Monterrey, Mexico and went to the same school in Minneapolis, Minnesota. They both stem from highly diverse musical backgrounds and the result of their collaboration showed their undeniable musical chemistry that catapulted them to rise to the top of the city’s DJ scene. Eyeing even greater opportunities to share their forward-thinking sound, they moved to Los Angeles where their rise as an international powerhouse duo began to take hold. With a slew of their popular tracks permeating the American EDM experience, Boombox Cartel is currently touring the U.S. and is slated to perform at festivals in Europe and parts of Asia.

Chaos Manila resident DJs MVRXX, Merms Dabu and MC Ronthug will also perform during this spectacular EDM event.

Tickets for Boombox Cartel’s EDM event are available at Chaos Manila and are priced at PhP 1,000 each inclusive of one drink. For Chaos VIP table reservations, guests can call 0917-8863678 or email guestservices@cod-manila.com.

Netmarble’s Lineage2 Revolution Adds New Clan Bosses

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Netmarble Games Corp., the fastest-growing mobile game company in Asia, today announced that its mobile MMORPG Lineage2 Revolution introduced contents including new clan dungeon bosses and an expansion to the Tower of Insolence. 

New bosses entering the clan dungeon today are ‘Varkaron’(hard) and the ‘Queen Ant’(easy). Varkaron requires a high level of play difficulty and it is advised for players to be in a party of at least 20 members. When players defeat Varkaron, the clan is rewarded with adenas, small clan coin box, Varkaron box, core and etc., which allows a faster growth of the clan. 

The Queen Ant can be played by beginners and with a party of just 5 members. When players defeat the Queen Ant, they can receive the small clan coin box and Queen Ant box. 

The ‘Tower of Insolence’ which tests the limit of each player as they defeat monsters on each floor, has been expanded to 70 floors. Players can receive runes that help strengthen their character as they move from floor to floor and defeat stronger monsters. 

From today, players can meet the new boss monster ‘Amadeus’ in the open field ‘Summit of Dissonance.’ The new boss monster Amadeus has a high HP(health) and AP(attack) and needs players to cooperate with each other to defeat it. 

Players can also find boxes filled with varnish, consumable, quest scroll in the wide open field of Lineage2 Revolution. 

There will be a player event in Lineage2 Revolution, which will give away in game items including A to S grade equipment box and scroll: enhance accessory, until July 25. 

During the same period, there will be a dice event where players roll the dice and receive various items as rewards. Players can roll the dice with points acquired by taking part in various gameplay such as exp. dungeon clear and participation in arena. When each player completes the dice board, additional benefits including Maphr’s Protection and red diamonds can be achieved as additional bonus. 

Lineage2 Revolution is a free-to-play mobile MMORPG(Massively Multiplayer Online RolePlaying Game) based on the popular PC online game IP “Lineage2.” With graphics powered by the Unreal4 Engine, the game stays true to its PC original, as it displays a stunning open field, raid, castle siege, characters, and classes in the mobile environment. As players are able to access all areas at once, it provides a gameplay similar to that of the PC game experience. 

For more information on Lineage2 Revolution, visit the game’s official website(http://lineage2-revolution.com/en) and Facebook page(https://www.facebook.com/OfficialL2Revolution/).

DOTr Bares Two New NLEX Exits in Meycauayan

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In a bid to decongest traffic in Meycauayan, Bulacan, the Department of Transportation (DOTr), through the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB), has approved the construction and opening of Libtong and Pandayan exit ramps along the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX).

The construction of the P31.5-million exit ramps project was started by the NLEX Corporation this year to ease vehicular traffic at the Meycauayan Interchange. Apart from constructing additional exits, the Meycauayan southbound toll plaza is also being expanded, while the east portion of its roundabout is undertaking signalization.

During the opening of the exit ramps held last July 6, NLEX Corp. President Rodrigo Franco revealed that more traffic-decongestion programs and enhancements are being undertaken in NLEX to deliver quality service to motorists.

Meanwhile, in her speech, Congresswoman Villarica recognized the significant role of DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade in making the traffic improvement program in Meycauayan possible.

Also present during the ceremony were Meycauayan City Mayor Henry R. Villarica, Vice Mayor Rafael S. Manzano, Jr., other LGU officials, NLEX Corporation Senior Vice President for Tollways Development and Engineering Raul L. Ignacio, Senior Vice President for Communications and Stakeholder Management Romulo S. Quimbo, Jr., Vice President for Project Management Nemesio G. Castillo, Vice President for Asset Management Jennifer Jane T. Go, and Assistant Vice President for Government Relations Roberto N. Tañada.

Incidentally, one of the five stations that were marked during the PNR Manila - Clark Station Marking Event held on June 26 is also located in Meycauayan. The PNR Manila – Clark Railway System is a 106-km railway that will lessen travel time from Tutuban in Manila to Clark in Pampanga to just 55 minutes.

National ID System: A Cure Worse than the Disease?

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Statement of the Foundation for Media Alternatives on a National ID System

As a response to various plans and proposals to implement a national ID system, the Foundation for Media Alternatives aims to raise awareness of the possible implications of such unified identity schemes. We believe
that a national ID system could:

1. Expand the bureaucracy and increase its maintenance costs;
2. Make the privacy and security of Filipinos vulnerable; and
3. Be used as a State surveillance tool against the people.

Officials of the Department of Finance made headlines recently with the pronouncement that the government plans to earmark PhP2 billion for the implementation of a national ID system next year. Together with their peers in the executive and proponents of the measure in Congress, these officials all proclaim the merits of having a centralized identification system: a panacea to red tape, and an obvious solution to terrorism, crime, and other security issues. 

We, at the Foundation for Media Alternatives (FMA), believe that such sweeping claims deserve a thorough and in-depth look, lest this turns out to be one of those instances wherein the much-touted cure becomes worse than the disease it is supposed to prevent. 

With red tape, for instance, the problem is by no means unique to government. It is common in organizations owing to poor communication, inflexible systems, and inefficient processes. As such, solutions almost always require comprehensive changes in the way things are done. That is what this administration should aim for and not an ID system, which is far from the vaunted solution it is made to be. If anything, introducing such a system may aggravate the situation by requiring more (and not less) bureaucracy. After all, most proposals seek the creation of a new database, which essentially duplicates the existing civil registry. They also require the establishment of registration centers here and abroad, thereby demanding more manpower or at least additional work for existing state employees. Truly, the system could end up expanding the bureaucracy and increase its maintenance costs. 

In terms of security, for all its supposed merits as a boon for law enforcement and national security agencies, a Filipino ID system also makes Filipinos more vulnerable. If we take the consolidated House bill, for example, it requires a considerable amount of sensitive personal data to be stored in a centralized repository. Having all these information in one place makes millions of Filipinos vulnerable to identity theft and other related crimes, via unauthorized access and other threats. After the Comelec breach incident last year, there is a real and substantial basis for this concern, especially if one considers that no system is ever completely secure or immune from breach. 

Finally, it is also worth reiterating how any ID system is one slippery slope away from being used as a systematic and pervasive State surveillance tool against the people. This is because it affords the government the power to monitor not only transactions, but also other activities and events in a person’s life. And it retains all this potential for misuse and abuse, despite the existence of Constitutional and statutory safeguards (i.e., Data Privacy Act). 

In other countries, their experience has shown that a national ID system, once installed, is never used only for the purpose it was originally intended. Here in the Philippines, we have the unrelenting socalled War on Drugs and a renewed drive towards militarization in the South. Amid such climate of fear where respect for fundamental human rights continues to erode, how far-fetched really is the idea that an ID system will be exploited by the government in pursuit of its self-determined priorities? And how unlikely really is the possibility that it will be used, not as a tool for development, but as a weapon for abuse and injustice?

Cusi: 'E-Power Mo! To Empower Energy Consumers

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Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi led today the launch of the government's “E-Power Mo!” campaign designed to empower consumers by providing them information and options on the intelligent utilization of energy resources.

The "E-Power Mo!" campaign brought together the Department of Energy (DOE), the Presidential Communications Operations Office, the Philippine Information Agency and the USAID B-Leaders at the Philippine International Convention Center.

In his keynote message during the event, Cusi emphasized that energy sufficiency is a cornerstone of the Duterte administration's thrust towards a globally competitive and inclusive economy that improves the quality of life of all Filipinos.

Without sufficient energy to power industries, Cusi said, it would be most difficult to pump-prime the economy en route to creating more jobs, improving the delivery of government services, and fast-tracking infrastructure projects.

The DOE, Cusi explained, is pursuing a neutral stance insofar as fuel and energy sources are concerned, and the guiding principle is for the energy mix to take into account both economic and ecological concerns.

The agency, he said, should keep an open mind on the country's options insofar as the energy mix is concerned.

The Energy chief emphasized that the DOE will "work on initiatives to ensure affordable, reliable, modern and sustainable energy. We will pursue a fuel and technology neutrality, balancing environment and socio-economic growth through competitive selection process."

"And contrary to what people might think," he stressed, "I am not against renewable energy, I am against high-energy rates."

He said he supports all energy sources as long as they make economic sense in the long term for consumers, industries and the economy as a whole.

Cusi cited DOE's projection that the country would need an additional capacity of almost 44,000 megawatts from 2017 to 2040.

In order to meet the additional capacity requirements, Cusi said, President Duterte recently signed Executive Order 30 to streamline the regulatory procedures that affect foreign and local investors' appetite to bankroll energy projects.

The EO created the Energy Investment Coordinating Council tasked to coordinate the efforts of various government agencies and private sector participants in fast-tracking the implementation of major energy projects.

The projects will be endorsed by the DOE as undertakings of "national significance" if they are in accordance or in support of the ‎2017-2022 Philippine Energy Plan, Cusi told his audience at the PICC.

"Our projections show that we need additional capacity of almost 44,000 megawatts from 2017 to 2040. We have on hand the Philippine Energy Plan ‎2017-2022 and its comprehensive sectoral roadmaps to guide us in our long-term planning on energy," Cusi said.

The Philippine Energy Plan ‎2017-2022 is the blueprint for attaining the government's vision of economic development contained in "Ambisyon 2040."

He added that the DOE is also institutionalizing disaster resilience in the energy sector for strengthening energy systems and facilities, quick restoration and provision of alternative sources that would lessen the burden to consumers during calamities.

"The Philippines is one of the countries most vulnerable to natural calamities. We experience an average of around 20 typhoons per year, flash floods, storm surges, earthquakes and landslides," Cusi pointed out.

"Just last week, the Visayas experienced a magnitude 6.5 earthquake that affected electricity supply in Leyte, Samar and Bohol. In circumstances like these, it is our task to make sure that electricity services are restored at the fastest possible time.”

CATalinuhan is Back

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CATalinuhan is an annual college admission test review administered by UP LAKAN, an organization of Bulakeño students from the University of the Philippines - Diliman. For years, CATalinuhan has aided a number of Bulakeño high school students with the different college entrance exams in the country. But, with the advent of the K-12 Program, the project was discontinued due to the lack of incoming freshmen in universities and colleges. This year, UP LAKAN is proud to present the revival of CATalinuhan, to be held four times on weekends of July and August at key cities and municipalities of Bulacan.

CATalinuhan 2017 will be from 8am to 5pm with a registration fee of P100. Participants are also encouraged to avail a supplementary reviewer for P100. Follow us on our Facebook page fb.com/CaTalinuhan for updates. Students may pre-register at bit.ly/CATalinuhan2017. On-site registration will start 7 am.

CATalinuhan 2017 is presented to you by UP Lakan and Rexona, in cooperation with the UP Repertory Company, also brought to you by Frappe La Rue and our media partners ClickTheCity, DZUP, and Wazzup Pilipinas.

DOE Assures Energy Aid to Quake-hit LGUs

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Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi today said efforts are underway to restore energy facilities in major parts of Region 8 and Bohol by tomorrow following the 6.5 magnitude earthquake.

During the regional coordinating council meeting on Monday in Ormoc City, Cusi and other Cabinet officials assured government assistance to quake-stricken local government units in Region 8 and Bohol.

Cusi said the DOE is addressing the effects of the magnitude 6.5 earthquake in three ways: immediately restore power, find alternative sources of energy, and ease the burden of the people.

“Five days after the quake, we are hoping to start the geothermal power plants and might soon bring back power to major parts of Leyte and Bohol."

The DOE has a 10-day timeline to restore power supply. "The people are working double time to repair necessary energy facilities," Cusi said.

As of 8:00 a.m. today, Energy Development Corp. (EDC) as operator of the geothermal power plants reported that they are already conducting necessary technical tests on the repaired marshalling station or central switching station in coordination with the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) to ensure its safe operation.

Once all pre-cautionary measures are taken by this critical facility, EDC will submit all tests results by late afternoon today.

If all goes well, this will signal the re-energization of all main transformers and the start-up of Upper Mahiao Geothermal Power Plants (GPP) Units 2 and 3 with 26 megawatts (MW) capacity each, and Malitbog GPP Unit 1 with 77.5MW, which would take about 16-18 hours.

Based on the report, EDC is targeting the delivery of 317 MW out of a total capacity of 625 MW from its geothermal power plants by Day 10 (17 July 2017). The 625 MW capacity is comprised of the following GPP: 180 MW Mahanagdong GPP, 213 MW Malitbog GPP, 120 MW Mahiao GPP, and the 112 MW Tongonan GPP.

EDC has also distributed generator sets to vital town installations, such as Municipal/City Halls, water pumping stations, hospitals, among others, so they can continue their delivery of services.

The DOE is also in talks with alternative power providers, such as Trans Asia, to mobilize the power barges to be brought to Leyte and Bohol.

Last Saturday, the DOE Secretary inspected the Unified Leyte Geothermal Power Plants, which were heavily affected by the temblor, to check on the extent of damage and how to speed up the rehabilitation of the facilities.

For the transmission part, installation of by-pass lines to enable power to flow from Cebu to augment supply to Leyte, Bohol and Samar has started.

Moreover, reports gathered by the DOE indicated that the repair of the Ormoc substation facility, which delivers power to Southern Leyte, Samar, and Bohol sub-grids, is underway.

For power distribution, all 11 electric cooperatives in Region 8 and 3 in Bohol are already ready to receive power.

As an institutional way forward towards energy resiliency, the DOE has recommended to the Regional Development Council (RDC) for Region 8 to create a Committee for Power to address the power related concerns of the region and prioritize measures related to resiliency, especially of power facilities. One of the best practices being look at by the Department is the Local Government Unit of Bohol through its Power Advisory Committee.

It will also strengthen its information drive for the renewable energy (RE) options for consumers, such as the net metering system (NMS) and the green energy option (GEO).

Apart from promoting efficient and safe utilization of energy, the DOE introduce the concept of accounting for generators to optimize availability of power, as among the emergency measures, to all distribution utilities and consumers in the area.

On transmission sector resiliency, the DOE wants to fast-track the Cebu-Bohol submarine cable targeted by NGCP by 2020 to establish an alternative transmission route for the provinces in Region 8 to ensure continuous delivery of power in the event of similar calamities.

Additionally, it requires the active participation of the Transmission Corporation to check on their transmission assets and the concessionaire's compliance with its obligations including the required ancillary services and resiliency policies.

Above all, the DOE ensures the compliance of industry participants with the reserve or replacement power and ancillary services requirements, and encourage more energy investments utilizing Executive Order 30 which created the Energy Investment Coordinating Council.

Kabataan Partylist (KPL) Southern Tagalog Region to Hold Annual ST State of the Youth Address

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Kabataan Partylist Southern Tagalog (KPL-ST) will hold the Southern Tagalog State of the Youth Address (ST SOYA) 2017 on July 15, 2017, Saturday at the University of the Philippines Los Banos. It is a regional conference that aims to gather the youth from all sectors across the region as they present their situation and vow to stand as a collective force in upholding the interest of the youth and the people for a pro-masses culture and education.

SOYA is in conjunction with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s State of the Nation Address (SONA). This event is a build-up activity for the youth in different provinces to have a genuine and truly representative People’s SONA. SOYA is an annual activity of KPL, along with other youth organizations and alliances that uphold a nationalist, scientific, and mass-oriented social change.

In the present context, where there is an abundance of national and local issues, it is imperative for the youth to speak up and join the discussion for the solutions to the problems the Filipinos face. To be participated by [number of participants] from [where participants are from], SOYA will serve as a venue for the youth from all sectors, whether in schools, communities or workplaces, to speak and present the everyday realities of their lives. Through the lens of the youth, national and local issues shall be tackled-from the aggravated crisis in education and the attempt to sign a false free education bill; to the “war on drugs” and martial law; and to the continuation of peace talks.

Educational discussions, consultations, and orientations shall be featured in the State of the Youth Address. Kabataan Partylist Representative Sarah Elago will tackle the situation of the youth in the context of education. National situationer during the first year term of the president will be presented by Ryan Dela Cruz, Anakbayan-CEAT Chairperson. An educational discussion regarding the peace talks and the importance of its resumption for every sector in the society will be discussed by Bagong Alyansang Makabayan-Timog Katagalugan (BAYAN-TK) Spokesperson Petti Enriquez. Moreover, a cultural night will serve as a venue for the youth to showcase their talents in the culture and the arts while cultivating their social consciousness.

Youth and Student Groups to Stage Nationwide Protest Against President’s ‘Fake News SONA’, Killing Spree

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Shibby de Guzman is a 13-year old Grade 9 student of St. Scholastica’s College-Manila who once faced backlash on social media for speaking out against extrajudicial killings borne out of the President’s war-on-drugs. On Tuesday, she announced the plans of the movement she is co-building: #YouthResist.


“Fake News SONA”

#YouthResist, a movement formed by youth groups Millennials Against Dictators [MAD], Student Council Alliance of the Philippines [SCAP], Akbayan! Youth [A!Y], and numerous campus- and community-based youth groups, will stage a nationwide ‘alt-SONA’ on July 18 to counter the ‘Fake News SONA’ of the President and his ‘killing spree’.

“Today, we are announcing that we are continuing to resist and that we are to constantly fight and struggle for this country’s future. We refuse to stop asking for a say into our officials decisions. We reject the notion that the loss of lives can be simplified as collateral damage”, Shibby said as she announced the group’s nationwide protest on what she called “the killing spree” of the President, citing the more than 12,000 homicide cases, including at least 7,000 deaths due to the war-on-drugs, as reported by the Philippine National Police.

The youth groups’ alt-SONA will be held at St. Scholastica’s College-Manila on July 18, 7:30AM-12:00NN and will be attended by thousands of young people from different backgrounds in Metro Manila.



Duterte killed more than Marcos

Karla Yu, co-convener of MAD and one of the complainants against Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre before the Ombudsman tagging him as “Fake News King”, expressed concern over the PNP’s downplaying of the statistics on extrajudicial killings.

“Duterte managed to accomplish more in one year than the dictator Marcos in terms of death toll”, Yu explained. “Marcos extrajudicially-killed more than 3,000 in his 20-year regime. Duterte killed more than 7,000 due to the brutal and corrupt war-on-drugs a year into office”, she pointed out.



Nationwide protest

Shamah Bulangis of A!Y explained that mobilizations will also happen in General Santos City and Cebu City. “There is a growing discontent among young people. This discontent is greater than our fear”, Bulangis mentioned.

“Together, young people are a formidable force”, she continued.



How many and how young?

“The all-out war on drugs also kills the youth and our capacity to dream. The more it kills young and innocent people, the more it kills the hope for a better future for our country,” added Jeza Rodriguez of SCAP.

Rodriguez cited the case of Danica (5 years old) and Althea (4 years old), as the youngest collateral damages of the President’s war-on-drugs. “How young and how many before we become outraged by this President’s killing spree?” Rodriguez asked.

“The 18th of July marks the day that this movement is born. 45 years ago, a dictator was toppled down with the help of a youth movement. Today, any emerging dictator will be stopped”, added Shibby.

The group called on their fellow youth to join the nationwide protest on July 18. “Kung hindi tayo ang lalaban, sino ang lalaban?”, Shibby urged.

Miss Philippines Earth 2017 Swim Wear and Resorts Wear Competition Winners

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Here to take on the part two of Ms. Philippines Earth 2017 is none other than Wazzup Pilipinas’ Sarah Muyco, getting the latest happenings last July 6, 2017, which was held in Versailles Palace, Alabang.

Wazzup Pilipinas had the first look on the gorgeous ladies during the dashing Swimsuit and Resorts Wear Competition. The night shone not only of beauty, but the game was played with brains as well, as the representatives made their insights known to public as to how to educate---the youth, in particular---and to inspire the hearts of many in our world in order to the tackle the deteriorating parts of our planet, as well as to preserve the mass beauty that is still among the Earth. 

The additional challenge to the contestants were to represent the unfamiliar five R’s into the world. Rather than the typical; Reduce, Reuse and Recycle, Ms. Earth would like to deliver the message of the five R’s (Rethink, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Respect) through these dedicated women. 

As to end the first half of the night, the winners of the Swimsuit Competition were announced to Ms. Olongapo City (Kim De Guzman) taking home the Bronze award, Ms. Puerto Princessa (Sandrine Stoelzed) for Silver, and bringing home the champion title was Ms. Cagayan De Oro (Sherlyn Doloriel). 

The second half of the night was then devoted to the Resorts Wear Competition, wherein their advocacies were being presented while wearing their fabulous resorts wear. One of the ingenious fashion designers, Angela Taloza, appeared in the event, supporting the ambassadors wearing exclusive Angela Taloza designed pieces; namely, Ms. Taguig, Ms. San Miguel, Bulacan and last but not the least, Ms. Dasmarinas City. 

The whooping audience impact on the stunning ladies gave quite a hint as to who would take home the Champion title in the Resorts Wear Competition. Going on third is Ms. Mandaluyong City (Shane Tormes), the Silver award was grabbed by none other than Ms. Pulilan, Bulacan (Samantha Acosta), and finally, the star of the night, the grand winner in the Resorts Wear competition is Ms. Caloocan City (Jessica Marasigan).

Miss Caloocan was asked how she could represent her city by injecting the five R’s. Jessica says to an exclusive post pageant interview with Wazzup Pilipinas; “I just want to represent Caloocan that we can make a difference with the five R’s. I do want to inform and educate them with the five R’s. We can help change the world, we can also make a difference into helping the environment as well.”

2017 Miss Philippines Earth Swim Wear Competition winners:
GOLD: Miss Cagayan De Oro City, Sherlyn Doloriel
SILVER: Miss Puerto Princesa City, Sandrine Stoelzed
BRONZE: Miss Olongapo City, Kim De Guzman


2017 Miss Philippines Earth Resorts Wear Competition winners:
GOLD: Miss Caloocan City Jessica Marasigan
SILVER: Miss Pulilan, Bulacan Samantha Acosta
BRONZE: Miss Mandaluyong City Shane Tormes


Cover Photo:
Sarah Muyco with 2017 Miss Philippines Earth Resorts Wear Competition winners

Written By Sarah Muyco (Millennial Momshie) and Breanna Muyco

Miss Scuba Philippines 2017 Media Launch

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Philippines is composed of 7,600+ islands and surrounded by several bodies of water, so it is but natural that we should have ambassadors that would help preserve and protect the marine biodiversity. Since the beauty of these waters are not only found above the oceans but also deep within and below the depths, we should also take a closer look into even the creatures and other living things where man could not easily see.

Our country is rich in marine life of all forms that it is being visited by many underwater photojournalists so they could capture rarely found creatures of which many could only be found in the Philippines. These makes our country a frequently visited place for divers who also take photos and videos deep down below.

I once escorted a few professional divers who are also photojournalists by profession and is amazed of what they were able to capture with their cameras after diving in the seas of Bohol. If only there was an opportunity to learn while they were here in the country, I could have grabbed it. Unfortunately, their stay is but limited to only a few days so they were here to maximize their diving opportunity.

I could imagine how many living creatures exists down below based on their photographs and stories. It is but wondrous to learn that not all are able to witness such a beauty down below. Most of us could only see these creatures in photos and videos from documentaries. They are lucky to be able to get up close and personal with these rarely seen creatures.

After that experience, it is but fitting that we should also have passionate advocates geared toward saving the oceans and its marine life, not only for our lifetime, but also for future generations.

Thus, the Miss Scuba Philippines beauty pageant or search not only looks for beauty, talent and intellect but also the heart and determination to protect and preserve marine biodiversity.

We are in luck because, Cindy Madduma, the very first Filipino to win Miss Scuba International back in 2015 is now the National Director for the Philippine search.

#GavaGives: A Convenient Online Platform for Kindhearted Campaign Makers

Wazzup Pilipinas!

"Giving, in its sincerest form, not only brightens up the lives of people (from a simple smile to the loudest laughter), especially the needy, but also our own hearts knowing we, in our own little way, are able to remember and give hope especially when most needed.

It is touching and heartwarming to reach out and give." 

Those words were what I conceived when asked why giving was important. This question was raised during the media event for Gava - an online donor community, that's likely to be a big hit for those who wish to extend their generosity towards an advocacy or outreach that they could easily initiate suing the platform that Gava offers. 

Gava aims to help out the needy in many kinds, shapes and forms, whether it's for a community located at far-flung areas unreachable by vehicles, or just for your neighbor who's having problems in financing his much required medical operation to prolong his life.

The organization is composed of passionate and highly technical professionals exposed in various charity foundations, marketplace and donation processing systems, and is led by Anna Cuisia Lindayag, the CEO and founder.

In August 2016, Gava was piloted as a crowdfunding platform that puts fun and purpose into the act of giving.

With the hashtag #GavaGives, Gava aims to be a lifestyle, most probably to also get the attention of Millennials who has embraced the digital age as their lifestyle.

Gava Marketing Staff Ria Rabajante hosted the media event, and facilitated the interview with some Gava campaign makers, like Kythe Foundation's Ivy Sausto and Noel Soriano, who both provided some testimonies on how they used Gava for their campaigns.

Gava ambassadors include Interior Designer Carla Peña, GMA Actress Marlann Flores, and Bb. Pilipinas - International 2014 Bianca Guidotti.

PAGCOR Assistant Vice-President Jimmy Bondoc is also a Celebrity Ambassador but had to go ealier before the main program started.

Lamudi Philippines to Hold Affordable Housing Fair for 2017

Wazzup Pilipinas!

With the wide acceptance of social media and other online platforms like blogs and online sites, as the new medium for communication, whether sending or receiving news, information or even word-of-mouth recommendations, reviews, feedback and even gossip, the world has definitely changed.

Back then when jobseekers, buyers and sellers, used to search through several newspapers and magazines, or watch TV and listen to the radio, people nowadays rely heavily on online content to feed their minds and influence their choices and decisions.

This goes the same for real estate seekers who would like to buy their first property a a home or business establishment, or add to their collection of business ventures as investment.

Online sites like Lamudi has undoubtedly revolutionize the way we do things. ..and now that online has reached a momentous and epic achievement when it comes to paving the way towards convenient dissemination of information, many have embraced the fact that online is the NOW and the FUTURE.

Lamudi has probably made it possible for properties and real estate to be sold at more affordable rates, thus the online real estate platform has continued to hold Affordable Housing Fair where various kinds of properties are showcased for the benefit of buyers interested to find affordable housing and/or lot opportunities.

At a press conference held on Monday, July 10, 2017 at Conti's Bakeshop, Greenbelt 2., Lamudi Philippines formally announced to members of the media their Lamudi Affordable Housing Fair for 2017.

Miss Tourism Philippines 2017 Reveals Special Awards at Swimsuit Competition

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Wearing the red, yellow and white-colored swimwear creations of Rikki Molina, Filipino fashion designer, Ichthus Beach Resort of Magsingal, Ilocos Sur, got a lot hotter even during the night time as lovely ladies came up on stage to further give the audience another beautiful sight to behold aside from the earlier sunset at the said beach.

All of the 29 hopeful candidates looked strikingly appealing in their swimwear, and their pretty faces even got highlighted by the fabulous hair and make-up done by Maquillage Professionnel (MP) School of Make Up Artistry.

The candidates are all vying for the top spot of Miss Tourism Philippines 2017 beauty queen title-holder, but we are proud to say that all of them are well-deserving to be part of the selected candidates, for each one has their unique and special attributes that make them all worthy of the crown.

Since the organizers would prefer to announce the winner of the Swimsuit competition at the grand coronation night, they awarded special awards instead after the said competition. 

The Miss Tourism Philippines 2017 Special Awards went to:

Miss Ichthus - Noveleta, Cavite
Miss Body Beautiful - Manila
Miss Catwalk - Palawan
Miss Eye of the Night - Filipino Community of Southern Australia

Miss Ichthus went to Jyn Almario,Miss Noveleta, Cavite; Miss Body Beautiful was awarded to Justiene Ortega, Miss Manila; the Miss Catwalk award went to Sharla Santillan, Miss Palawan; and the Miss Eye of the Night was conferred to Filipino Community of Melbourne, Australia, Marian Angelu Perez Alcantara.

One Championship Announces One: Quest for Greatness for Kuala Lumpur on August 18

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The largest sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship (ONE), has just announced another blockbuster evening of authentic martial arts action. ONE: QUEST FOR GREATNESS is set to return to the iconic Stadium Negara on 18 August for another spectacular showcase of Asia’s top martial arts talent. In the main event, undefeated ONE Featherweight World Champion Marat “Cobra” Gafurov of Russia puts his world title on the line against top contender Martin “The Situ-Asian” Nguyen of Australia.

Chatri Sityodtong, Chairman and CEO of ONE Championship, stated: “It is always an exciting time in Kuala Lumpur whenever our world-class athletes climb atop Asia’s biggest and grandest martial arts stage. Our warriors are eager to put on a show for fans in Kuala Lumpur, and it is our honor to have them perform in this marvelous city. Marat Gafurov and Martin Nguyen are two of the promotion’s finest featherweights. They have met before, with Gafurov taking victory via submission in their first encounter. This time, however, a better-prepared and refocused Nguyen vows to finally bring the title back to Sydney.”

Marat “Cobra” Gafurov of Dagestan, Russia, is the reigning ONE Featherweight World Champion. An undefeated martial artist with 15 wins and no losses, Gafurov is a high-level grappler with 11 of his wins coming by impressive submission over top-caliber opponents. Rarely challenged and always dominant, Gafurov captured the featherweight title in 2015 with a gutsy victory over former champion Narantungalag Jadambaa in an epic battle. In his last bout, Gafurov defeated Jadambaa once again in a rematch a year later to cement his claim as the undisputed ONE Featherweight World Champion. He will defend his title next against Australia’s Martin Nguyen.

28-yea old Martin “The Situ-Asian” Nguyen of Sydney, Australia, is a former featherweight title challenger with a 8-1 professional record. His only loss came at the hands of reigning ONE Featherweight World Champion Marat Gafurov, when he stepped up to accept their first showdown on just a few days’ notice. None of Nguyen’s victories have gone to a decision, giving him five solid knockout wins as well as three victories by submission. In his last bout, Nguyen defeated Japanese veteran warrior Kazunori Yokota via first-round knockout. Nguyen’s all-around skill set allows him to compete at the highest level as a professional. In a highly-anticipated rematch, Nguyen once again receives a shot at the ONE Featherweight World Championship when he takes on Marat Gafurov for the second time.

DOE-DPWH To Relocate Power Distribution Lines

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) signed today (10 July) a circular to guide electric cooperatives on a unified mechanism concerning relocation of their power facilities affected by government construction.

The DOE-DPWH Joint Circular prescribes uniform guidelines and procedures for the proper payment of compensation and/or recovery of cost in the event of the need to relocate the distribution/subtransmission lines of electric cooperatives.

At the signing of the Joint Circular along with DPWH Undersecretary Karen Jimeno, representing DPWH Secretary Mark Villar, Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said: “We have to address situations where the facilities of electric cooperatives need to be relocated due to government projects, such as road-widening, bridge construction, among others, and provide a unified mechanism for reasonable compensation to them for every affected facility.”

“This joint initiative is in cognizance of the need to provide continuous, adequate and reliable electricity services to consumers while government projects are underway," Cusi pointed out.

Based on the Circular, the government agency implementing a public works project shall coordinate during with the National Electrification Administration (NEA) and Electric Cooperatives to address all right-of-way concerns related to the affected facility, including claims for compensation and determination of relocation sites.

It also provides an appropriate formula in the determination of proper compensation to the electric cooperative for the cost of the removal of affected facility.

“With this Joint Circular, we will be able to accelerate and expand access to electricity services by our people,” the Energy Chief concluded.

Cover Photo Caption: DOE Secretary Alfonso Cusi and DPWH Undersecretary Karen Jimeno, representing DPWH Secretary Mark Villar, signed this morning, 10 July 2017, in the DOE Conference Room the DOE-DPWH Joint Circular on the payments and compensation to electric cooperatives whose facilities are affected by government projects.

E-Power Mo! To Bring DOE Closer to Consumers

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Recognizing the public’s vital role in the energy chain, the Department of Energy (DOE), in partnership with the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) and Philippine Information Agency (PIA) will launch the “E-Power Mo!” on 12 July 2017 Wednesday at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.

Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi said that there is a "need to send across the message of the energy sector to the entire energy chain, from the industry players down to the general public.”

The conference for energy consumers and stakeholders, “E-Power Mo!” aims to provide essential information on the fast-evolving developments in the energy sector, proper energy utilization and energy resiliency.

E-Power Mo will also launch President Rodrigo Duterte’s energy roadmap and policies designed to empower the consumers specifically to:

1. Develop and utilize the energy resources available to Filipinos for wealth creation and global competition (E-POWER MO!);
2. Undertake safety and savings measures through energy efficiency (E-SAFETY MO!);
3. Secure the delivery of quality, reliable and affordable energy services (E-SECURE MO!); and,
4. Empower consumers through a wide range of options in utilizing conventional, renewable and alternative energy sources. (E-DISKARTE MO!).

The DOE will aggressively implement this strategic energy information, education and communication campaign so that ordinary Filipinos would be encouraged to use energy responsibly and would be partners in advancing the country's economic growth.

Lenovo Recruits Gamers and Fans to be Part of a New and Exclusive Gaming Community: Gamers Legion

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Join the Legion!

Lenovo, the world’s leading PC manufacturer, today launched a call for all fans in the Philippines to join Gamers Legion, a new, exclusive and one-of-a-kind community in Asia aimed at taking the modern PC gaming experience to the next level.

As a member of Gamers Legion, participants from the Philippines will not only play a pivotal role in Lenovo’s future product development, but will also be the first to know about Legion’s newest offers and events.

Interested fans and gamers simply need to visit the dedicated Legion microsite at http://www.legionlenovo.com/ph in order to fill out a short online questionnaire about their gaming habits, preferences and views. Lenovo will then select 30 gamers in the Philippines to join the exclusive community of 270 people across Asia that will make up Gamers Legion.

What’s more, Lenovo Philippines will also be raffling off 30 tickets to Garena’s Rampage 2017. Everyone who submitted their applications via the microsite gets a chance to win.

The Gamers Legion recruitment phase begins today and only lasts until July 20, 2017. All successful applicants will be notified on July 24 via email. All fans and gamers are also encouraged to visit the Facebook Page of Lenovo Philippines at https://www.facebook.com/lenovophilippines to follow the latest updates of the Gamers Legion. 

The kick-off follows Lenovo’s highly anticipated launch of its Legion sub-brand in the Philippines early this year. Legion offers both casual and professional gamers cutting-edge products that are inspired by, and co-created with, gamers based on their needs.

In the Philippines, Lenovo marked the launch of Legion through the introduction of the Legion Y520, IdeaPad Y910, and IdeaCentre Y710 Cube, stylish, powerful and portable plug-and-play devices with DIY flexibility that offer the most immersive experiences.

“As PC gaming becomes more popular in the Philippines, our research shows that gamers are becoming increasingly discerning when it comes to expectations around performance, flexibility and immersive experiences,” said Michael Ngan, Lenovo Philippines Country General Manager. “Lenovo is committed to working more closely with gamers to create best-in-class experiences in eSports and gaming PC. With this in mind, we are proud to have launched Gamers Legion, our one-of-a-kind community that ensures we are giving a voice and platform to our highly passionate customers, that continues our tradition of co-creating products that meet their continuously evolving needs.”

“This campaign is but one in a series of initiatives that support our ambition of being the world’s leading gaming brand, bar none.”

Pricing and Availability:

· Prices for the Lenovo Legion Y520 Notebooks start from just P49,995.
· Prices for the Lenovo IdeaCentre Y710 and Y720 start from just P81,990 and P90,990, respectively.
· Lenovo Y27G curved gaming monitor retails at P29,999.

Cusi: Round the Clock Work in Place to Restore Power in Quake-hit Areas

Wazzup Pilipinmas!

Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi thanked on Saturday the men and women who are working on 24-hour shifts to bring back electricity within three to five days in the quake-affected areas in the Visayas, especially in Leyte.

Cusi today conducted an aerial and ground inspection of the various power plants, including geothermal facilities, that sustained damage from the magnitude 6.5 quake that recently hit the region.

A combination of bypass and build-back-better strategies are being implemented by the engineers, with Cusi expressing hope that power will be fully restored within seven days.

"I commend the dedicated Warays and the other personnel who are working 24/7 to fast track the delivery of safe and reliable electricity services to around 3 million consumers," said Cusi.

"The Yolanda experience taught us a lot and I have seen that we have improved on our restoration practices," he said, adding "but there is always room for improvement.”

"I am hopeful that we can see a tremendous improvement in the delivery of energy services within three to seven days."

DOE Invites Koreans to Invest in PH Energy Projects

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Department of Energy Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella promoted Philippine energy investment opportunities during the Korea-Asia Energy Cooperation Seminar convention at the Plaza Hotel in Seoul, Republic of Korea on 7 July 2017.

The Philippines' Department of Energy (DOE) under Secretary Alfonso Cusi today announced to Asian energy sector players and government officials that the Philippines will require 43,765 megawatts (MW) of additional electricity capacity by 2040.

Represented by Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella, he told the Korea-Asia Energy Cooperation that the required additional capacity represents a three-fold increase in the Philippines' demand for energy.

Fuentebella also expounded on the energy policies and thrusts of the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte during the convening of the seminar at the Plaza Hotel in Seoul.

The DOE official briefed the audience of promising investment prospects in the Philippine energy sector.

"To address this need, the Philippines would need 70% base load power plants, 20% medium range power plants and 10% peak load power plants."

Fuentebella cited the demand for new power plants in areas identified by the DOE in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

Major energy projects were also highlighted in the presentation, such as the Integrated LNG Terminal and Visayas-Mindanao Interconnection Project along with their corresponding costs and projected timelines for completion.

To highlight the Philippines as an attractive destination for energy investors, Fuentebella announced that President Duterte recently signed Executive Order No. 30 giving priority status to energy projects.

Under E.O. 30, an Energy Investment Coordinating Council was created to streamline regulatory procedures affecting energy projects of national significance.

The EO also reduced to 30 days the processing time for applications for energy-related undertakings and projects.

In the open forum, the DOE official said the Philippine government is open to looking at micro-grids to augment the energy supply given the country's archipelagic location.

He said the DOE would soon release guidelines pertaining to the Green Energy Option.

Following the seminar, several Korean companies expressed interest in exploring energy investment opportunities in the Philippines.

Fuentebella provided a comprehensive overview of the Philippines’ primary energy mix, energy demand and supply outlooks from ‎2016-2040 as well as strategic directions