Impossible Magic Show Comes to Manila

MAGIC SHOW COMES TO MANILA
Fresh from London's West End,
IMPOSSIBLE has to be seen to be believed!

LIVE AT THE ARANETA COLISEUM
25TH DECEMBER 2017 ~ 3RD JANUARY 2018

IMPOSSIBLE Teaser Video
YouTube: https://youtu.be/X_Zysbm6ymk
Download Link: https://we.tl/pq0GHTnRMu

Featuring six of the world’s most mind-blowing magical acts, IMPOSSIBLE is the breath-taking spectacular thrilling audiences worldwide. Fresh from its record-breaking second summer in London's West End, IMPOSSIBLE continues to tour the world and finally comes to Manila for the holiday season this December 25 to January 3.

Fusing death-defying stunts, technological trickery, grand stage illusions and close-up magic in a fast-paced breath-taking performance, IMPOSSIBLE reinvents the biggest illusions in history in the greatest magic show on earth.

Audiences should prepare to be mesmerized and baffled as IMPOSSIBLE brings together six world-class performers showing off a stunning range of magical artistry.



IMPOSSIBLE’s world tour includes:
Magical Bones: South London street conjurer and break-dancing master Magical Bones is considered the world’s best hip-hop magician. Starting out in the music industry as a dancer for the likes of Madonna and the Black Eyed Peas, Bones has since turned his attention to wowing the public with expert sleight-of-hand, and there’s no doubt the tricks up his sleeve will stump any seasoned sceptic.

Ali Cook: Master of multiple magical trades, Ali Cook is a daring escapologist, sleight of hand expert, stage illusionist and performer of thought control. His highly innovative live shows have lead Ali to be awarded the highest accolade The Magic Circle has to offer with his promotion to Member of the Inner Magic Circle with Gold Star. Ali is a pioneer of the alternative magic scene and he has written and starred in various television series including: ITV’s Penn And Teller: Fool Us; BBC 1’s Now You See It; Channel 4’s Dirty Tricks (Nominated for the British Comedy Awards); Sky One’s The Secret World of Magic and Channel 5’s award-winning Monkey Magic and Psychic Secrets Revealed with Derren Brown.

Chris Cox: Clear your mind before award-winning mind reading specialist Chris Cox gets his hands on it! Chris stars in BBC3's Killer Magic, bewildering audiences with his unique mind reading talent. He’s the man behind the magic at Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck restaurant; he has flummoxed audiences including One Direction’s Liam Payne and Jonathan Ross on stages across the country and continues to control minds in his multi-award winning tour Fatal Distraction.

Ben Hart: Ben invents unique magic which pushes the boundaries of film, theatre and television and tests the limits of illusion, including decapitation, vanishing and levitation. At the age of 16, he won the Magic Circle's ‘Young Magician of the Year’ Award and his most recent show Belief? sold-out to astonished audiences. He starred in BBC 3’s Killer Magic, where his unique and unorthodox approaches amazed audiences across the country and has recently been seen wowing BBC’s The Voice coaches.

Josephine Lee: Josephine Lee is the world’s leading female illusionist. Josephine has thrilled and enchanted audiences with death defying escapes and grand illusions having recently appeared on The Next Great Magician and Britain’s Got Talent for ITV. She is also the fastest in the business, breaking the world record for the most number of illusions performed in 5 minutes with the world-renowned Hans Klok - an accolade held to this day.

Bello Nock: Bello is America’s favourite comic Daredevil. TIME magazine included Bello in their list of “America’s best artists and entertainers” and he recently wowed the judges on America’s Got Talent. His shows have played to sold-out crowds in Madison Square Garden and his first self-produced theatre show was nominated for a prestigious Drama Desk Award. Bello’s unique blend of endearing comedy and jaw-dropping daredevil stunts make him one of the most exciting live performers in the world today. Young or old, Bello always provides his audience with the gift of laughter and inspiration.

Jamie Hendry (Producer): “We were overwhelmed by the welcome that London audiences showed IMPOSSIBLE last year and hot on the heels of our success in different parts of the world. We are delighted to be bringing our spectacular World Tour now to Manila.”

Winston Llamas (Promoter, Wilbros Live): “Wilbros Live is thrilled to bring the world’s greatest magic show IMPOSSIBLE to Manila. This is a must-see live spectacular for the whole family this coming holiday season.”

Tickets at affordable prices: P1800, P1500, P1200, P800, P500 and P150 (plus ticketing charge). Tickets are available beginning Saturday, October 7 at all TicketNet outlets or online via TicketNet.com.ph. For ticket reservations, call 911-5555 or 374-9999.

Follow Wilbros Live on social media for more information.
Facebook: Wilbros Live
Twitter: @WilbrosLive
Instagram: @WilbrosLive
#ImpossibleManila #SeeToBelieve

EDWIN UY House of Couture

Edwin Uy is one of the fashion designers who is famous in the field of pageants and weddings. He started his fashion career way back in 1990 and started as a fashion accessory designer. That time, he was doing fashion accessories for some of the top fashion designers during that time using wires as his base medium. In 1996, he started venturing into clothesline and opened his first atelier. His shop then was more focused on doing wedding gowns.

It was in the year 2000 when Edwin started venturing more in the field of fashion doing couture gowns, costumes and pageant gowns. He also started doing the clothes of some celebrities from the ABS-CBN and GMA network for their TV specials and magazine covers. In 2005, he started doing the clothes and costumes of some top Philippine artist for their major concerts.

He made clothes and costume of Ms Kuh Ledesma and Zsa Zsa Padilla in their concert entitled “Diva to Diva”. He also made clothes for Kuh, Zsa Zsa, Pops and Regine in their concert entitled “Divas 4 Divas”. Another major concert he did was the first major concert of Vina Morales entitled “Showgirls”.





In the runway, Edwin did he very first gala show in 2003 at Enterprise Bldg in Ayala Ave., Makati. He has staged yearly charity fashion shows from early 2000 up to 2015 for ABS-CBN Bantay Bata. He also has been one of those designers showcasing his works for Philippine Fashion Week from 2009 to 2014.

As a pageant designer, Edwin made his first pageant gown and national costume for Peachy Manzano when she won the Miss Tourism International 2000 title held in Malaysia. In 2002, his national costume ctreation for Miss Philippines April Rose Perez in the Miss Earth Pageant won 2nd place among almost 80 candidates. It was in 2011 when he started to be more interested in pageants. He won as Best Designer in Mutya ng Pilipinas that year.

In 2012, Edwin’s Ifugao inspired national costume creation in the Binibining Pilipinas pageant won him his 1st award as Best National Costume. It was worn by Nicole Schmitz who also won the Bb. Pilipinas International title during that time. Since then, his creation started winning awards in different pageants both locally and internationally.

















Here are the list of all the awards he won:

1. Miss Earth 2002 (International – 2nd place Best National Costume
2. Mutya ng Pilipinas 2011 – Best Designer Award
3. Binimining Pilipinas 2012 - Best National Costume
4. Miss Philippines Earth 2012 – 3rd place Best Regional Costume
5. Miss Philippines Earth 2013 – 2ns place Best Regional Costume
6. Miss Earth 2013 (International) – 2nd place Best National Costume
7. Miss Asia Pacific World 2014 (International) – Best National Costume
8. Mr. International 2014 (International) – 3rd place Best National Costume
9. Slimmers World Miss Bikini Philippines – Best National Costume
10. Binibining Pilipinas 2015 – Top 5 Best National Costume
11. Miss World Philippines 2015 – Best in Evening Gown
12. Miss Republic of the Philippines 2015 – Best Terno
13. Mister International 2015 (International) – Best National Costume
14. Miss Scuba International 2015 (International) – Best National Costume
15. Miss Grand International 2015 (International) – Best National Costume
16. Miss Global 2016 (International) – Best National Costume
17. Miss Tourism Queen International 2016 (International)– Best in Evening Gown
18. Binibining Pilipinas 2017 – Best National Costume
19. Mister Planet (International) 2017 – 2nd place Best National Costume

This last quarter of the year of 2017 , there are 5 more national costumes that Edwin would be making for our candidates who will represent our country in the international pageants. Hoping that he could give glory to our country by winning more awards with his creations. We will look forward to that and his very promising future as a fashion designer to give more glory to our country

Photography by Collin Yap

Here’s How You Can Easily Earn 20,000 GetGo Points at TravelBook.ph!

Pack your bags and get ready to leave because at TravelBook.ph, you can explore different places and still earn big reward points!

This September, Cebu Pacific’s Lifestyle Rewards Program, GetGo, launches their biggest promo for this year, Points Everyday, Fun Getaway Promo.

As one of the partners of GetGo in this big and exciting promo, all successful bookings made by customers via TravelBook.ph within September 15 to October 31, 2017 will earn 15% more bonus points. Every point earned during the promo period, including the bonus, is equivalent to one (1) e-raffle entry. GetGo members just have to log in at www.travelbook.ph/getgo
and book their desired hotel accommodation. Upon booking, the customer must input their GetGo Membership Card Number to make their promo entry valid.

Free trips going to popular Asian destinations like China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan or Hongkong will be given away to five (5) lucky winners. To add more prizes to this exciting promo, twenty (20) lucky GetGo members will be chosen to win 20,000 GetGo Points. All winners will be notified via email and phone call after the raffle draw on November 14,2017.

The more they book, the more they earn big and exciting reward points!

Call your friends and family and start planning your out-of-town trip right now! At TravelBook.ph, the more you travel, the more you get rewarded! To know more about this exciting promo, please visit www.travelbook.ph/getgo.

Malacanang Affirms Vitriolo Dismissal

In a press conference in Malacañan, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella confirmed the position of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in enforcing the dismissal of Former CHED Executive Director Julito D. Vitriolo.

Citing guidance from the Office of the Executive Secretary (OES) and the Senior Deputy Executive Secretary (SDES), Secretary Abella stressed that, “the decision or order of the Ombudsman remains executory, notwithstanding any other decision of the Court of Appeals, which has not yet attained finality,” during a Palace news conference yesterday, 28 September.

Abella’s pronouncement also supports the 19 September official communication from Acting Executive Secretary Menardo I. Gueverra to CHED on the matter, Malacañan explained that “[a]s a rule, a judgment, final order, or resolution rendered by the CA may only be executed upon its finality. In the exceptional circumstances where the CA itself orders its decision to be immediately executory, they remain subject to the provisions on discretionary execution.”

The clarification came in light of Vitriolo’s insistence to resume his functions as Executive Director following the Court of Appeals (CA) Decision reinstating him, thereby causing confusion in the agency and delays in its operations.

Meanwhile, in a press conference held last Wednesday, 27 September, CHED Chairperson Patricia B. Licuanan clarified that, “at the moment, we do have an Executive Director. He was appointed by the President, he has been there since June, and that is Mr. Karol Mark Yee.”

Licuanan likewise earlier released a Memorandum confirming and reiterating the CHED directive recognizing Yee as the Executive Director of the Commission, stating that all memoranda issued and circulated, documents transmitted, and communication signed by Vitriolo “shall have no legal effect whatsoever and is considered null and void ab initio.”

Vitriolo was dismissed last January 2017 by the Office of the Ombudsman after being found guilty of grave misconduct, gross neglect of duty, incompetence and inefficiency. However the Court of Appeals (CA) modified the decision of the Ombudsman in August, finding the penalty of dismissal to be harsh and reducing the same to a one month suspension.

Yee, previously the Program Director of the CHED K to 12 Transition Program, was appointed by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte as Executive Director IV, vice Julito Vitriolo, last July 14, 2017. He assumed the position in July 19, 2017 and has since served as CHED Executive Director.

Discover Thai Tea with a Twist, only at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

Your go-to café The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is putting a twist on a Thai street food favorite and bringing Filipinos two strong, sweet, and satisfying drinks.

Add a burst of flavor to an otherwise ordinary day with The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s signature blend of Assam black tea combined with the sweetness of condensed milk as Thai Tea Latte & Thai Tea Ice Blended® hit stores nationwide.

Assam black tea is known for its body, briskness, and robust flavor. This, when combined with creamy and sweet condensed milk, makes traditional Thai tea both a great way to jumpstart the day and a refreshing treat to sip on over your break. It is often sold out of street carts or at coffee shops in its home country of Thailand, but you can now savor this delicious drink the way you want to, right in the comfort and warmth of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s cozy spaces.

Drop by The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and chill with your friends with a cool drink of Iced Thai Tea Latte, paired with delicious Roast Chicken & Mushroom Fusilli for lunch or a hearty afternoon meal. Or if you’re craving for something sweet, the Triple Decker Cheesecake goes perfectly with Thai Tea Ice Blended.

No matter how you take your tea, you can be sure that The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf sources its ingredients from only the best plantations around the world, giving you the premium tea you’re looking for with fresh twists you’ll enjoy, along with an elevated café experience you’ll want to keep coming back to.

So, watch out, tea lovers, and be the first in line to try the Thai Tea Latte and Thai Tea Ice Blended only at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf.

Get a taste of what’s new at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf®. For updates, follow @coffeebeanphilippines on Facebook, @cbtlph on Instagram and @cbtlph on Twitter, or visit http://coffeebean.com.ph to find a store near you.

DOE to Accelerate Rural Electrification

STUDY TURN-OVER: Philippine Department of Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi (L), Chair of the 35th ASEAN Ministers Energy Meeting and Associated Meetings (AMEM35), thanks International Renewable Energy Agency Director General Adnan Amin (R) during the official turn-over of the IRENA study entitled "Accelerating the Deployment of Renewable Energy Mini-Grids for Off-Grid Electrification- A Study on the Philippines.” The turnover of the RE study was held during the concluding press conference of the AMEM35 at the Conrad Manila.

(Manila, Philippines). Filipino households can look forward better to access basic electricity services with the government's thrust towards total electrification.

This was stressed by Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi as he received Thursday (28 September) a study conducted by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) during the concluding ceremonies of the 35th ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting (AMEM35) at Conrad Manila, Pasay City.

The study is entitled "Accelerating the Deployment of Renewable Energy Mini-Grids for Off-Grid Electrification- A Study on the Philippines".

Cusi said, “The IRENA study supports the country’s total electrification goal for Filipino families to enjoy equal opportunity to access basic electricity services.”

“Electrification of households, particularly n the rural areas, remains a big challenge for us. Thus, we have to take advantage of this study to bridge the residual gaps in our electrification efforts,” the Energy Chief emphasized.

The study explored the issues and barriers to the implementation of mini-grids through a comprehensive review of government legislation and programs and select international studies.

The study entailed a documentary review, focus group discussions and field studies in four sites, which resulted in several key recommendations to accelerate the deployment of energy mini-grids via RE and other emerging technologies for off-grid electrification in the Philippines.

The study came up with five key recommendations:

(1) define roles and responsibilities to remove overlapping roles, functions and accountabilities to acknowledge stakeholders’ roles and to define private-sector boundaries;

(2) undertake comprehensive and strategic planning for total electrification, missionary electrification development, stronger coordination among relevant agencies, grid and off-grid development efforts, and resource utilization, especially renewable energy;

(3) establish a clear policy approach for mini-grids to introduce a graduation policy for the universal charge for missionary electrification entitlement;

(4) revise regulatory approach for mini-grid projects to remove existing barriers and  facilitate smooth entry in the market by streamlining processes, updating procurement rules, and improving tariff determination procedures and

(5) increase project development and execution support for more accessible financing, and promotion and understanding of renewable energy by all stakeholders.

IRENA is an intergovernmental organization that supports countries in their transition to a sustainable energy future, and serves as the principal platform for international co-operation, a center of excellence, and a repository of policy, technology, resource and financial knowledge on renewable energy.

The international agency also promotes the widespread adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy, including bioenergy, geothermal, hydropower, ocean, solar and wind energy, in the pursuit of sustainable development, energy access, energy security and low-carbon economic growth and prosperity.

Global Shipments of FUJITSU Image Scanners Have Passed the 10 Million Mark

proud to announce that as of July 2017, global shipments of its FUJITSU image scanners have passed the 10 millio

PFU released its first image scanner, the U4301A flatbed scanner, back in 1983. Since then, PFU has continued to face customers’ needs one by one as well as expand its “fi-Series” scanner lineup with the addition of ADF equipped models and high-speed image scanners. Its original software bundled with the fi Series has also facilitated customer operation efficiency by taking user operations before and after scanning into consideration as well as offering optimal image data with its simple interface.

The “ScanSnap Series” enabling “One Touch” scanning and digitization released in 2001, then proceeded to open up a new era with PFU’s release of the Wi-Fi compatible iX Series and overhead scanning SV600. PFU has in this way, continued to evolve along with the diffusion of the Internet and technological developments in society as well as customer lifestyles.

34 years since PFU sold its first image scanner, not only has its image scanners been used in offices and homes in over 100 countries worldwide, but its fi Series has also received much acclaim to achieve Number 1 in the global scanner market share.

Here in the Philippines, small, medium and large businesses have learned to utilize the importance of digitizing their documents and they depend on Fujitsu scanners for these requirements.

PFU has launched a “10M Achievement” special website in honor of this 10 million scanner mark. Utilizing the slogan, “Good quality has 10 million reasons.” which contains messages of how the various reasons as to why our customers have purchased our scanners, this website will be sharing various types of campaign information held throughout the world as well as the underlying history of PFU’s scanners.

A website named “Our Scanner Story” has also been launched to share PFU’s stance in producing image scanners, definite quality and technology, and fascination that it has continued to deliver customers through its products.

Fujitsu Philippines, Inc., the official distributor of Fujitsu scanners in the country are very excited to share this milestone with the ever-loyal Fujitsu scanner users. The “10 million scanners” is just a testament how Fujitsu scanners have been the most trusted scanner in the world today.



For more information, please visit www.fujitsu.com

YouTube Pop-Up Space Returns

YouTube Pop-Up Space is coming back to Manila throughout October 19 - October 22, 2017.

Don't miss this chance to signup for exclusive events and workshops happening at the Pop-up Space.

They will be providing the full YouTube Space experience over the course of 4 days. Come learn how to improve video production, meet and collaborate with other creators, and gain insights on how to take your channel to the next level.

Pop-Up Space is a YouTube initiative created to support YouTube communities around the world by investing in creators' development and growth. The mission of YouTube Spaces is to Learn, Connect, and Create.

Dates: October 19 - October 22, 2017 (Thu - Sun)
Location: The Hotel at Green Sun Makati
(2285 Chino Roces Ave, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines)

Eligibility for participation in the various workshops is based on how many subscribers you have.

See you there!

Lenovo Unites the Philippines’ #CIitizensOfTMRW

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Interactive pop-up store dubbed as Citizens of TMRW exhibit at the Fashion Hall of SM Megamall showcased the ideas and devices that will and are already shaping today and tomorrow’s world.

In an interview with Lenovo's Country General Manager, the most anticipated technology that would soon be the evolving trend is Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality. Armed with mobile devices like tablets and laptops that integrates with peripherals that makes the mentioned technologies possible, future computing would be something to look forward to.

With devices that transform to function a variety of tasks, we are very impressed of how Lenovo has allowed us to personally experience their technologies with the Citizens of TMRW exhibit. It makes you want to get one of them home as soon as possible. Why not? If we had the budget and the site actually sells, there's no stopping us from owning one of the units soon. Going to the nearest tech store to purchase one would be the next task after seeing their offers.

Hosted by Chico Garcia, the media launch was held on the first day at the actual exhibit area, and  was attended by selected members of the media together with Lenovo's industry partners.

It also presented some influencers who are actually using Lenovo products in their respective areas of expertise, like the lady who draws on a tablet, and the young man who controls a Star Wars droid using his Lenovo tablet.

We have several videos from the event coverage so please do check them out on our official YouTube and Facebook pages.

Benilde Film Alumna’s Short Film Competes in Iraq Film Fest

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Papa’s Shadows, a short film written and directed by De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde film alumna Shallah Montero, will vie for top awards at the Slemani International Film Festival in Iraq from October 1 to 7.

The film tells the story of seven-year old Mia (Pintig Santos) who has a lot of questions about death at her young age. She has always heard about death but never fully understood it. As the little girl experiences the loss of her own father, she struggles to see her mother (Roence Santos) becoming sadder each day. She seeks help instead from the shadow puppets her father left her, to cope and understand the meaning of life and death.

Montero revealed that she particularly made the film for her mentor, visual artist and shadow puppeteer on Salubayba, and her favorite TV cameraman and cinematographer Egay Navarro, both of whom have passed away.

“Don’s influence in shadow play and how he introduced the craft to me at a young age and a conversation with Egay’s little son on his concept of death has inspired me to write this story. Both of them left their children too early, grasping reality at such a young age,” she explained.

“I wanted to use the concept of how a child’s imagination can help them cope with such a heavy reality and how their innocence can help them emerge stronger through trying times,” the young filmmaker added.

Manny Pacquiao is Your Friendly Lurker on Instagram Live

"So Manny Pacquiao, a married self-proclaimed Christian, chatted up a woman online. His wife must be glad; Christmas just came early for her." - Jonathan Sy

It has been said that when boxer Manny Pacquiao has a fight, the crime rate in his native Philippines drops to 0%. He has truly given us entertaining fifhts everytime he goes inside the boxing ring and win or lose, many Filipinos do tune in. However, what keeps him busy when he does not have a fight?

Pound for pound boxer Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao out here trying to pound every girl that goes live on Instagram.

“You can call me anytime” - Manny Pacquiao only responded because he was invited to do a radio show, during IG live. Still a Pacman not a Pacboi .

Pacquiao admits commenting on live video of IG star Arzaylea Rodriguez; says Rodriguez was first to engage conversation with him.

However, 22-year-old Arzaylea calls out Pacquiao: "I didn't start our chat"

Pacquiao says his "You can call me anytime" to BarStoolRia was in reply to her query to interview him. No malice he says.

Do we now live in a world where creepy married men like Pacquiao can say "walang malisya dun" after flirting with other women on IG Live?

Could someone tell Manny Pacquiao that he should quit the Instagram Live lurking.

Manny Paquiao should have consider my option as his defense, that his account was used by his son.

'I did nothing wrong,' says Pacquiao amid Instagram uproar. Now, I believe he is a comedian after all.

Some people are actually defending Pacquiao over this issue. The dude is a fucking hypocrite and yet you still eat his shit up.

Shannon Wiratchai to Face Rasul Yakhyaev in One Lightweight World Championship Title Eliminator

The largest sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), recently held a kick-off press conference ahead of the highly-anticipated live event, ONE: WARRIORS OF THE WORLD, which takes place 9 December at the Impact Arena in Bangkok and is held in collaboration with Havoline. Headlining the event is ONE Superstar, top lightweight contender Shannon “OneShin” Wiratchai as well as the challenger, Rasul Yakhyaev of Russia. Also in attendance was Chairman and CEO of ONE Championship, Chatri Sityodtong, and ONE President of Thailand, Kamol ‘Sukie’ Sukosol Clapp, as well as ONE Championship athletes Rika Ishige, Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke, Kritsada Kongsrichai and Sagetdao Petpayathai.

The main event bout has been announced as a lightweight title eliminator, with the winner going on to challenge the ONE Lightweight World Champion.

Ticket information for ONE: WARRIORS OF THE WORLD is available at www.onefc.com.

Official photos from the ONE: WARRIORS OF THE WORLD Press Conference at this link: https://photos.app.goo.gl/dQXq2Z3E5YHr9fPt1

Chatri Sityodtong, Chairman and CEO of ONE Championship, stated: “Bangkok is one of the most amazing places in the world to hold a live sporting event because the fans are so passionate and energetic. The atmosphere we create at the Impact Arena is unique and you have to experience it firsthand to understand the kind of electricity that flows through the stadium. This main event we have lined up is sure to produce fireworks as Thailand’s biggest martial arts star, Shannon Wiratchai, showcases his skills inside the ONE Championship cage against Russia’s Rasul Yakhyaev.”

Kamol ‘Sukie’ Sukosol Clapp, ONE President of Thailand, stated: “It’s going to be another amazing evening of world-class martial arts action. There really is no place like home, and I am excited every time we have a ONE Championship event here in my city. ONE has been relentless in its pursuit to give fans adrenaline-pumping action from start to finish, and ONE: WARRIORS OF THE WORLD will certainly aim to be the most exciting show in the history of Thailand.”

Lennard Kwek, Asia Pacific Marketing Manager, Chevron, stated: "We are thrilled to announce the renewal of this massive partnership with ONE Championship, the largest sports media property in Asian history. The values of ONE & the strength of the athletes, resonate deeply to the core of Havoline on genuine strength. Caltex Havoline believes that, just like the bouts in the ONE Championship cage, our vehicles often face difficult conditions on the road. But with a proven fighter against friction, wear and sludge deposits, you can be sure that you will have a smooth and worry-free ride. We are excited at the possibilities and the opportunities for growth in both companies.”

Shannon Wiratchai, ONE Superstar, stated: “I would like to thank all the Thai people, and all fans of martial arts for the support. If you’re a fan of non-stop action and excitement, come and see us at the Impact Arena on 9 December. It’s going to be an amazing show. I am preparing very hard so that I can make Thailand proud. I know my opponent is incredibly well-rounded and highly-skilled, so I will surely not be taking him lightly. It’s going to be an absolute battle from beginning to end.”

Rasul Yakhyaev, stated: “After some time, I have returned to ONE Championship, seeking victory. I have improved so much as a martial artist in my time away. Now, I am confident in all of my skills. I am coming to Thailand to take on its toughest warrior. Thank you to ONE for the opportunity of a lifetime, I will definitely bring my best inside the cage.”

Rika Ishige, stated: “We can never really lose. Either we win, or we learn, and in that sense, there is victory in every defeat. Defeat is part of the game, it’s part of life. The most important thing is that we get back up and keep fighting for our dreams. I am honored to be part of this event, to represent Thailand as its first professional martial arts star. Come see us on 9 December, it’s a show you won’t want to miss.”

Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke, former ONE Strawweight World Champion, stated: “I am ready to continue my quest in becoming the best martial artist I can be. I was once at the top, once the champion, and there is nothing I want more than to get back to that status. Whoever I have to face, whoever they put in front of me, better be ready for what I’m bringing into the cage. I am proud to represent Thailand on the biggest international stage of competition.”

Kritsada Kongsrichai, stated: “As a newcomer to this game, it’s definitely something that I have had to learn. The complete set of martial arts, from striking to grappling, is something that requires a great deal of discipline and determination to adapt to. I vow to showcase my improvements in this next bout and show what I plan for my future.”

Sagetdao Petpayathai, stated: “I am in this to prove my skills and my heart as a warrior. It doesn’t matter who I am matched up against. What matters is that I am prepared well and that I am in great physical condition. Everyday I put myself through the rigors of training to become the best martial artist I can be. I am excited for 9 December so that I can get back inside the cage and do what I love.”

Shannon “OneShin” Wiratchai of Thailand is a staple in exciting and memorable battles inside the ONE Championship cage. A mainstay of Bangkok Fight Lab, he trains in various martial arts disciplines at home in Bangkok, including Muay Thai, boxing, wrestling, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. An offensive innovator, Wiratchai likes to be creative with his striking, employing a myriad of unpredictable off-angle elbows and kicks. Wiratchai seeks to continue his winning ways as he headlines ONE: WARRIORS OF THE WORLD in the main event bout against Rasul Yakhyaev.

26-year-old Rasul Yakhyaev of Grozny, Russia is a lightweight martial arts star who has racked up a solid following over his seven year professional career. He is adept in both striking and mat techniques, and is considered a solid contender with tremendous combat skills. A well-rounded warrior, four of Yakhyaev’s victories have come by submission while three have come by knockout. He made his ONE Championship debut in December of 2015, falling to Lowen Tynanes by submission. Yakhyaev now seeks redemption as he takes on Shannon Wiratchai.

Rika “Tinydoll” Ishige is a 28-year-old female atomweight from Bangkok, Thailand. She is of mixed Japanese and Thai heritage, beginning her martial arts training at age nine with aikido and taekwondo. Heavily influenced by her late father who trained in judo, Ishige went on to hone her skills as a martial artist, and turned pro earlier this year. All of Ishige’s victories have ended via impressive submission as she has been able to showcase her impressive grappling skills.

Former ONE Strawweight World Champion Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke is a three-time Lumpinee Stadium Muay Thai world champion who has a 8-2 record as a professional martial artist. He is known as a technical striker with quick hands and lightning feet, employing some of the most unique and creative combinations. As a martial artist with over 25 years of competitive experience, Dejdamrong is a seasoned veteran. In his last bout, Dejdamrong defeated the Philippines’ Robin Catalan with his patented knee strikes.

Kritsada “Dream Man” Kongsrichai is a Thai national wrestling champion, and has a 5-3 record as a professional martial artist. He has not gone the distance yet in his young career, having three knockouts and two submissions under his belt. He made his ONE Championship debut in the promotion’s first-ever Bangkok show in May 2016, where Kongsrichai delighted his hometown fans with a spectacular performance, stopping opponent Kev Hemmorlor via first-round technical knockout.

30-year-old Sagetdao Petpayathai is a Muay Thai specialist and a four-time Lumpinee Stadium champion who has won every major title in Muay Thai. He made his professional cage debut last March at home in Bangkok, defeating Malaysia’s Kelvin Ong via first-round technical knockout. Voted by Thai media as one of the greatest Muay Thai practitioners in history, Petpayathai is known for his highly technical knowledge in all of Muay Thai’s varied techniques. In his last bout, Petpayathai stopped Mahmoud Mohamed in the first round to improve his record to 2-0.

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.

The 5th ASEAN Energy Outlook: ASEAN is on Track to Reach Their Energy Intensity Target

During the press conference for the 35th ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting (AMEM) and Associated Meetings today, ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE) announced the launch of the 5th ASEAN Energy Outlook (AEO5). The Philippine Secretary of Energy, Alfonso G. Cusi, stated, “The Outlook provides us with pathway to address our long-term goals of achieving energy security, accessibility and affordability within the framework of sustainable development, as guided by our policy document, the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation (APAEC) 2016-2025.”

The AEO5 was developed based on the energy policies and targets of 10 ASEAN Member States (AMS). The final results of AEO5 are in-line with AMS’ expectations of their future energy landscape, in particular with their national expectations of future economic and population growth.

ASEAN energy demand continues to surpass global growth, mainly driven by its targeted economic growth of 5.4% per year into 2025. The Total Primary Energy Supply is expected to increase by a factor of 2.3 times over the period of 2015 to 2040. However, through a combination of energy efficiency (EE) efforts and renewable energy (RE) contributions, energy savings of about 25 % could be realised.

Electric power capacity in the region is projected to triple over the period to cope with the strongly rising electricity demand in ASEAN, which contributes to a considerable reduction of traditional biomass usage in the region.

Overall, the AEO5 indicates that ASEAN is well on track to reach the APAEC energy intensity reduction target of 20% by 2020 and 30% by 2025 based on the 2005 level.

The region’s aspirational target to increase the share of RE to 23% by 2025 in the energy mix will require further enhanced efforts from all stakeholders. As ASEAN is strongly committed to reduce carbon emissions from the energy sector intervention over the long-term, substantial reductions of 16% carbon intensity levels from the present value are projected to be realised in 2040.

“We believe that AEO5 will contribute to broad appreciation of the challenges of energy security, accessibility and affordability in driving economic prosperity, social development and environment sustainability within the framework of ASEAN Economic Community (AEC),” Dr. Sanjayan Velautham, ACE Executive Director, stated during the press conference. The AEO5 was presented to the Ministers during the 35th AMEM, and the Ministers acknowledged that the AEO5 outlines the feasibility of achieving substantial energy savings through significant EE and RE injections, as demonstrated in the advanced scenarios.

The AEO5 is a joint output of ACE with the active involvement of all 10 AMS under the directive of the Regional Energy Policy and Planning Sub-sector Network, and is supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) through the ASEAN-German Energy Programme (AGEP). Maria-José Poddey, Principal Advisor for AGEP, GIZ mentioned, “We trust that the AEO5 will be of benefit to policymakers and stakeholders to develop policy frameworks that ensure sustainable energy security in each AMS and the region.”

The 5th ASEAN Energy Outlook is available on www.aseanenergy.org

ASEAN Ministers to Enhance Energy Cooperation

AMEM REPORTS: Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi and delegates meet the press in concluding the 35th ASEAN Ministers Energy Meeting and Associated Meetings (AMEM35) at the Conrad Hotel. In photo along with AMEM35 Chair and Philippine Department of Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi (center) are (L-R) ASEAN Center for Energy Executive Director Dr. Sanjayan Velautham, ASEAN Secretariat Deputy Secretary General of ASEAN Community and Corporate Affairs AKP Mochtan PhD, AMEM35 Vice Chair and Singapore Ministry of Trade and Industry S. Iswaran, and International Renewable Energy Agency Director General Adnan Amin.

(Manila, Philippines). ASEAN Member States (AMS) together with the ASEAN Secretariat, development partners and stakeholders have agreed on various energy cooperation projects to propel regional economic progress.

At the conclusion of the ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting (AMEM35), the Philippines' Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi pointed out that the agreements on enhanced cooperation are intended to achieve a “One ASEAN Community Through Resilient and Sustainable Energy.”

The series of AMEM35 meetings included the 14th ASEAN+3 (China, Japan and Korea) Ministers on Energy Meeting; the First AMEM-International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Dialogue; the ASEAN Energy Business Forum (AEBF); and the 11th East Asia Summit-Energy Ministers Meeting or the AMEM+8 (Australia, China, India, Japan, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, Russian Federation and the US).

Regional Energy Policy and Planning

The AMS, development partners and affiliate international organizations discussed the outlook for global and ASEAN energy and member states’ support for the implementation of the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation (APAEC) 2016-2025.

They agreed on the need for sustained cooperation to ensure security of energy supply and promote a low-carbon energy sector.

The AMS also gave due recognition to best practices and developments in the energy industry through the ASEAN Energy Awards.

Renewable Energy

The AMS agreed to boost efforts to attain ASEAN’s aspirational target of 23% Renewable Energy (RE) share in the region-wide energy mix by 2025.

The Ministers were also united in forging sustainable renewable energy cooperation together with the active participation of IRENA.

"We have a long way to go, so we have devised a Renewable Energy Outlook as guide to narrow the gap on the RE initiatives in the region,” Cusi said.

Trans-ASEAN Gas Pipeline (TAGP)

The AMS agreed to ensure accessibility and security of oil and gas supply in the region, through their continuing efforts on the intra-ASEAN Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Cooperation initiated by the ASEAN Council on Petroleum (ASCOPE).

The participants also stressed the pivotal role of natural gas to the region’s sustainable growth and the need to implement the long-term goal of open access to gas markets in the region; identify commercial opportunities; share best practices; and enhance policy development.

Clean Coal Technology

The AMS acknowledged the importance of promoting highly efficient and clean coal technologies in the regional drive to lower carbon emissions and a more sustainable future for the region and the world. At present, coal continues to be a major fuel source in the region.

Energy Efficiency and Conservation

The AMS agreed to work towards achieving by 2020 the ASEAN’s energy intensity reduction target by 20% based on 2005 levels. Currently, the ASEAN is at 18.3% level.

The Energy Ministers emphasized the need to foster innovative solutions and encourage countries to continue information sharing, best practices, capacity building, better business models and other alternative and emerging efficient energy technologies.

Civilian Nuclear Energy

The AMS discussed how to enhance the Member States’ capabilities on civilian nuclear energy for its safe and efficient development. The AMS invited development partners who are experts in the field, including Canada, China, Japan, Russia and the United States, to share their experiences.

ASEAN Power Grid

The AMS has already embarked on multilateral electricity trade in the ASEAN Power Grid through the signing of the Phase 1 of the Energy Purchase and Wheeling Agreement among Lao PDR, Thailand and Malaysia under the Lao PDR-Thailand-Malaysia-Singapore Power Integration Project (LTMS-PIP).

ASEAN Energy Investment

The AMS agreed to target an increase in the average GDP growth to 6% across the region, and recognized the vital role of the private sector and their active participation in the ASEAN region. The AMEM35 and the ASEAN Energy Business Forum had a joint opening ceremony to underscore the fact that the ASEAN is a sweet spot for business growth and development.

Finally, Cusi said: “The Philippines takes pride in hosting the AMEM35 as this showcases not only our capability to manage an international energy event, but the beauty and culture of the country as well the talents and hospitality of Filipinos.”

PH Wins Big in ASEAN Energy Awards 2017

Department of Energy Officer-in-Charge, Director for Electric Power Industry Management Bureau, Mario C. Marasigan, and other Filipino awardees were recipients of the ASEAN Excellence in Energy Management by Individual award during the ASEAN Energy Awards held on Wednesday 27 September 2017 at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City. Marasigan was given the award for his contributions in the renewable energy, energy efficiency and conservation sectors. The ASEAN Energy Awards is held annually where the ASEAN Ministers on Energy recognize best practices in the field of energy.

Philippine energy sector participants took center stage during the ASEAN Energy Awards held Wednesday night (27 September) at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City as the Department of Energy (DOE) proudly hosted the 35th ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting (AMEM35).

As host and chair of AMEM35, DOE Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi emphasized during the gala dinner and awards night, “With the theme ‘One ASEAN Community through Resilient and Sustainable Energy,’ energy cooperation is geared towards adapting to abrupt and erratic changes in the environment and anticipating the growing energy demands of the region.”

Cusi pointed out that "As energy resources face scarcity, we in the ASEAN region will exert all efforts to tap the diverse energy options and innovations around us.”




In the said the awards night, the ASEAN gave due recognition to 86 firms and individuals for their contributions in the fields of renewable energy, energy efficiency and conservation, and coal resource utilization and development.

Individuals and companies vied in six (6) areas, namely: ASEAN Coal Awards 2017; ASEAN Best Practices Competition for Energy Management in Buildings and Industry; ASEAN Best Practices Competition for Energy Efficient Buildings; ASEAN Best Practices Competition For Green Building; Renewable Energy Competition Project; and ASEAN Excellence in Energy Management by Individual.

Philippine awardees include:

ASEAN Excellence in Energy Management
· DOE Director Mario C. Marasigan as Former Senior Official on Energy Leader

ASEAN Coal Awards 2017
· Best Practices Category (Clean Coal Use and Technology-Power Generation; 2nd Runner-up for Large or greater than 500 megawatts ton/year) –UNIDO BAT/BEP Program and Heat Rate Improvement by AES Philippines-Masinloc Power Partners Co. Ltd.

· Best Practices Category (Clean Coal Use and Technology- Industry; Winner for Small or equal/less than100 MW/year) –Coral Bay Nickel Project by Coral Bay Nickel Corp.

· The 2nd runner-up for the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Category - Strategic, Holistic, and Meaningful Approach to Corporate Social Responsibility through the Health, Education, Livelihood, and Environment (HELEN) Framework by AES Philippines-Masinloc Partners Co. Ltd.

ASEAN Best Practices Competition for Energy Management in Building and Industries
· Building Category (Large; Winner) – BPI-PHILAM Life Makati Condominium Corp.

· Industry Category (Small and Medium; Winner) –Maynilad Water Services, Inc. and La Mesa Treatment Plant 2

Renewable Energy Competition Project
· On-Grid: National Grid Category (Winner) – 20 MW Maibarara Geothermal Project.

The energy chief also highlighted the importance of technologies meeting regional standards, mainstreaming of energy efficiency and conservation complemented by innovations and a strong policy framework.

The Secretary said that “the ASEAN is collaborating not only for energy security and accessibility but for sustainability and resiliency as well.”

“Let us continue to have the wisdom in guiding our sector towards achieving our common objectives and work in one community by continuously sharing resources and technologies towards regional economic growth,” Cusi said.

The ASEAN Energy Awards is the recognition body of the 10 member states for best practices in the development of the region-wide energy industry.

Playboy Founder Hugh Hefner Dies at 91

He peacefully passed away today from natural causes at his home, The Playboy Mansion.

I wanted him to die more like in a 19 person orgy where he was the only male. Dude busted a nut and his soul ascended. That would be a more appropriate way to go for the man who had the most beautiful women around him.

To a man who absolutely carpéd the heck out of the diem, Hugh Hefner built Playboy empire and embodied it. His death at 91 is so sad because the man is the magazine’s very public avatar. Hugh styled himself as an emblem of the sexual revolution. He lived a life by his standards. Many may not agree how he lived it but deep down wished they did.

He lived the life loving the most beautiful things in life - women! To honor his legacy, all erections will be at half-mast. Seriously, we owe him the success of our sexual fantasies. I'd like to thank Hugh Hefner for giving right arms around the world a solid workout for decades.

The man will be dearly missed. May his legacy inspire many to follow, not to create another Playboy empire, but to be a visionary just like him. He founded Playboy with $600 and another $1,000 borrowed from his mother. Iconic success from nothing.

They say when you die you go to a better place, but Hugh Hefner just downgraded significantly because I think he was already in the best place having built his empire satisfying all the sexual fantasies of every man, and making women wanting more to make themselves attractive and sexually pleasing to men.

What can I say? He taught me it was okay to be horny for half human/half rabbit hybrid creatures.

Thank you for the countless titties, asses and pussies you've provided throughout my youth. He dedicated his whole life to give us an unending supply of photos of naked women.

Rest in Peace, Hugh Hefner. You dirty man, you. You empowered so many women. Your legacy will live forever.

Hugh Hefner was on to something very unique at the time when he launched his magazine, Playboy. Has there been a man as similarly as brave as him to endure the controversies thrown at him?

We should all pay our respects to him tonight, and then avoid shaking hands at all costs with each other tomorrow.

"Life's too short to be living somebody else's dream." - Hugh Hefner

Ragnarok Online Philippines Unveils Chaos Server and New Job Classes

Ragnarok Online Philippines announced that the wildly popular and most anticipated server, Chaos, will be opened to the public on September 27, 2017.  The opening of Chaos Server also marks the arrival of additional exciting job classes.

    

Ragnarok Online Philippines, within a few months, was able to establish the Philippine Ragnarok community into one of the most active and passionate gaming community in the country. With the opening of the Chaos Server, new and old gamers will once be able to start or renew the adventures offered by world of Rune Midgard.

The opening Chaos Server also marks the introduction of new Job Classes to all servers. The arrival of  Crusaders, Monks, Sages, Alchemists and Rogues will heighten the excitement and expand the adventures when leveling up, going boss hunts, 1 on 1 PVP battles and War of Emperium Guild versus Guild Battles!

Chaos Server is calling out to everyone to relive the legendary adventures of Ragnarok Online!

More details and more exciting plans will be unleashed in the near future, to keep updated follow our official website at https://ragnarokonline.com.ph or our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/RagnarokOnline.com.ph/ .

Between the Sky and Earth in Siquijor by Viviana Riccelli at Galleria Duemila

On Oct 7–28, 2017, Galleria Duemila, sponsored by The Philippine Italian Association proudly presents “Between the Sky and Earth in Siquijor” by Viviana Riccelli.

In preda ad un’allucinazione. Dream Mode. Between the Sky and Earth in Siquijor, Viviana Riccelli’s latest exhibit explores unconscious depths that form figures and eventually transforms into a spatial picture, observing different divisions of lines and shapes coupled with tonal colors that imbibe the mood of the image. It invites the viewer to glimpse through an angle, a window of a perhaps temporal scene of a place and of longing for it. This describes perfectly the current ordeal of some people in the world nowadays, a desire to settle yet always moving, a desire to move yet always settling. Her affinity with the vortex is a majestic portrayal of mystery and whirlwind adventure, foregrounding her present locality of Siquijor, a mystical island center of the Philippines. The vortex entangles you into its deepest center, fanning over different colors and expressions and completely envelopes the viewers into its imagery and illusion.

Viviana Riccelli has studied art extensively in Rome, Berlin, Venice and Cairo. She continuously explores the Philippines as part of her study on experiencing different cultures, forming her perception, and discovering her deep-set love for painting and drawing. She has been under the apprenticeship of famous American Abstract Expressionist movers such as Nicolas Carone and Beverly Pepper. She extends her knowledge through teaching for Verocchio Art School and Art Center in Umbria.•


Viviana Riccelli on Living in Siquijor, Philippines

I arrived in Siquijor after a very long time, after an attentive search, after many years of travelling and after asking myself where is the place I would like to spend the rest of my life.

All the world was open to me, and I was thinking about directions….. West, South, North, but then came to my mind the kindness and the generosity of the Filipinos which I know in Italy and whom I met around the world in my lifetime journey. The people of the Philippines, the wilderness of its forest, the beauty of its nature, the mystery of its sea, the curiosity about its culture and traditions piqued my interest!

Eventually, the Philippines became the choice! I knew then that the Philippines would become a place of inspiration to my art and has become my much beloved home.

The following step was to understand where in the Philippines. More then seven thousand islands, very different people, and rich cultures, Manila in the Philippines is so similar to Rome for the ferment of humanity living there, for the cultural dynamism and attention for cultural heritage. But, at that point, a sort of blind instinct drove me to the Visayas and then straight to Siquijor.

When I first arrived in Siquijor and I was approaching its coast, its colors touched my heart: green, blue, turquoise, red and yellow like the hot sun. I felt immediately that this was my place.

In Siquijor, as in Dumaguete, in Manila, in Iloilo, in Bacolod, and all the other places I have been, I have developed very strong and valuable friendships.

The deep fascination with the places I discover, visit and live in, never stops.

If I am sad or worrying about something, I just go out in the streets to have a walk and see how welcoming is the people I meet, how positive they always are, no matter how difficult their lives.

I have learned the wisdom of the sea from the fishermen and from the healers of the mountains.

The visions and diary of this journey treads troughs into my art work.

For more information you may call us at 831-9990 (tel), 833-9815 (fax) or at 0927-629-4612 (mobile); you may also email us at hello@galleriaduemila.com or at art@galleriaduemila.com; visit our website at http://www.galleriaduemila.com and follow us for updates on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram: @galleriaduemila.