Mobile MMORPG Lineage2 Revolution Receives Major Update

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Netmarble Games Corp., the fastest-growing mobile game company worldwide, announced today that its mobile MMORPG Lineage2 Revolution had a massive update, introducing a new region Oren and UR grade equipment.

First, the level cap was increased from 180 to 260. Following this change, hell modes boasting higher level of difficulty than existing dungeons, came to Daily Dungeon, Equipment Dungeon, Adena Dungeon and EXP dungeon. Summoning Stone Dungeon received very hard mode.

The region located in the northern Aden, Oren has also become available and opened to all Lineage2 Revolution players. Oren is a border area in frequent conflicts and has the most advanced military culture within the kingdom of Aden. The territory full of powerful monsters and special rewards will lead the players into a series of absorbing adventures.

Besides, UR grade equipment with the highest competence joined Lineage2 Revolution. Players can build UR grade equipment by forging SR grade equipment above level 30 with four special materials acquired in Aden, including Recipe, Equipment material, radiant upgrade stone and scrap. 

In addition, Netmarble rebalanced Red Equipment introduced this September and introduced hard mode to a clan dungeon Cruma Core.

Lineage2 Revolution added Elite Dungeon: Conflict Area into the game. Elite Dungeon: Conflict Area allowing PK features not only extremely difficult gameplay and limited entrance catered to high level players, but also tremendous rewards.

Moreover, the Tower of Insolence was expanded to 100th floor, while Temporal Rift started attracting the players with brand-new hard and very hard modes in its Altar of Madness and Countess of Blood’s Boudoir.

Lineage2 Revolution, from this update, will be offering further enhanced monthly sign-in rewards, for example S grade Exclusive Red Rare Amor Selection Box, S grade Exclusive Rare Amor Selection Box, and R grade Exclusive Rare Amor Box for new and returning players. All existing players will receive Blessed Scroll Selection Box, R grade exclusive (Red/Rare) Equipment Selection Box, and Maphr’s Protection.

Netmarble also runs Dice event from November 8th to 28th, giving away raw materials for UR grade equipment production, such as Unconfirmed Recipe and Ripped Recipe Fragment.

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/).

G.SKILL Creates World’s Fastest DDR4 32GB Memory Kit at 4400MHz CL19-19-19-39

Wazzup Pilipinas!

G.SKILL International Enterprise Co., Ltd., the world’s leading manufacturer of extreme performance memory and gaming peripherals, is thrilled to announce the never-seen-before 32GB (4x8GB) Trident Z memory kit at an extremely blistering DDR4-4400MHz CL19-19-19-39. This new DDR4 Trident Z dual-channel memory kit upgrades the four-DIMM configuration to the next level as the world’s fastest 32GB (4x8GB) memory kit in the world. These extremely high-speed desktop modules are manufactured with rigorously tested and binned ultra-performance Samsung B-die DDR4 ICs.

The Fastest Without Limits

After the launch of the 8th Gen Intel® Core™ processors and Z370 chipset motherboards, G.SKILL has been constantly pushing DDR4 speeds faster than ever before to higher levels with various capacity configurations. With the availability of the ASUS OptiMem technology, which complements the T-Toplogy layout that uses equalized trace lengths, four-DIMM memory configuration has improved stability and memory overclocking performance. G.SKILL Trident Z memory once again achieves the world’s fastest 32GB memory kit at the ultra-high DDR4-4400MHz speed, with an exceptionally aggressive timing of CL19-19-19-39 in 32GB (4x8GB) at 1.5V. Below is the screenshot of the memory kit being stress tested and demonstrating its stability on the ASUS ROG MAXIMUS X HERO (WI-FI AC) motherboard with the Intel® Core™ i7-8700K processor.

Built For Extreme Overclockers

Whether it’s for a seasoned overclocking veteran or an enthusiast who is on the path of hardware overclocking for benchmark world records, this new Trident Z series DDR4-4400MHz 32GB kit is programmed with the Intel XMP 2.0 profile to help easily enable the memory settings in BIOS. Of course, that wouldn’t stop anyone from manually tweaking the settings further to eke out every last ounce of performance from a DDR4 system. 

IMPOSSIBLE's Explosive Street Magician MAGICAL BONES Coming to Megaworld Lifestyle Malls

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Get a sneak peak of the World's Greatest Magic Show coming your way this holiday season at Megaworld Lifestyle Malls. 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. Catch IMPOSSIBLE's explosive street magician MAGICAL BONES via a series of special live shows on November 19, 5PM at the Uptown Mall and 7PM at the Eastwood Mall, and on November 22, 5 PM at the Lucky China Town Mall.

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.

Be captivated as Magical Bones promises a magical experience. For more details, call MegaWorld Lifestyle Malls at 709-9888, 0917-8380101, or visit www.MegaworldLifestyleMalls.com.

Meanwhile, guests can also see the full IMPOSSIBLE show on December 25 to January 3 at the Araneta Coliseum. Be mesmerized and baffled as IMPOSSIBLE brings together six of the world's most mind-blowing acts showing off a stunning range of magical artistry. For tickets, visit TicketNet.com.ph.

Japan Wins Fourth Asia Super Team: Adventure to Dreams

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Japan’s BUN Corporation was recently announced as the grand winner of the fourth Asia Super Team competition, organized by Bureau of Foreign Trade and executed by TAITRA, besting six other participating teams from Asia.

BUN Corporation is a famous franchisee with over 1,300 employees and 57 stores across Japan.

With the theme “Adventure to Dreams”, ASIA SUPER TEAM this year invested corporate teams from seven countries in Asia to challenge themselves in Taiwan over two days, including cooking local signature dishes, baking, modern dance performances, and finding answers throughout local history. At the culminating event, each participating team performed a theater play around Taiwan in early 20th Century, and demonstrated how people in different industries pursued their objectives.

Based on local contests, online voting and stage performance at during press event, BUN Corporation from Japan won the championship, and brought back US$50,000 of MICE awards in Taiwan.

One: Immortal Pursuit in Singapore Complete with 10 Bouts

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The largest global sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), has just announced the full card for ONE: IMMORTAL PURSUIT, set for 24 November at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. Fans will be treated to another exciting evening of authentic martial arts action, as the best martial artists in the world take to the ONE Championship cage. In the main event, reigning ONE Welterweight World Champion Ben “Funky” Askren will defend his title against former ONE Lightweight World Champion Shinya “Tobikan Judan” Aoki. It is Askren’s final bout as a professional before he retires from professional competition, and takes an executive position with ONE Championship.

Ticket information for ONE: IMMORTAL PURSUIT is available at www.onefc.com.

A former NCAA Division I All-American and US Olympian, Ben “Funky” Askren is a collegiate wrestling legend and one of the finest martial artists in the world today. Askren joined ONE Championship in 2014, taking the promotion by storm and capturing the ONE Welterweight World Championship with a resounding technical knockout victory over Nobutatsu Suzuki. Since then, Askren has successfully defended the title on multiple occasions, and has stopped six of his last seven opponents to maintain a perfect 17-0 professional record. In what is being billed as the last bout of Askren’s illustrious professional career, the American is set to defend his title against the legendary Shinya Aoki of Japan.

Global martial arts veteran Shinya “Tobikan Juda n” Aoki of Shizuoka, Japan, is one of the world’s most decorated athletes. He is the DREAM Lightweight Champion, former Shooto Welterweight Champion, and the former ONE Lightweight World Champion. The 34-year-old Aoki is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt under the famed Yuki Nakai and has won multiple grappling tournaments all over the world. Aoki also holds a black belt in judo and is widely considered one of the best pure grapplers in professional martial arts competition today. In his next bout, Aoki makes his ONE Championship welterweight debut, taking on reigning ONE Welterweight World Champion Ben Askren of the United States for the title.

22-year-old Singaporean top lightweight contender Amir Khan is a martial artist with a stellar professional record of 8-2. He is considered one of the most promising young talents to represent Singapore on the international stage of martial arts. Khan is currently riding a five-bout win streak, with all of his victories coming by way of scintillating finish, including one by submission and four by devastating knockout. In his most recent outing, Khan needed less than one round to finish Jaroslav Jartim with a combination of punches and kicks. Next in line for Khan is the always-dangerous Adrian Pang.

Adrian “The Hunter” Pang is a martial arts veteran from Queensland, Australia, with a 22-10-2 professional record. The veteran Pang has decimated opponents with his incredible power and no-frills approach to striking in nearly two decades as a professional. He is known for his astounding durability and overwhelming strength, with the ability to walk through opponents with little to no resistance. Pang will need to muster all of his strength however, when he takes on rising star Amir Khan of Singapore in his next appearance inside the ONE Championship cage.

Leandro “Brodinho” Issa is a 34-year-old Brazilian jiu-jitsu world champion black belt from Sao Paulo, Brazil, who trains and competes out of the world-renowned Evolve Fight Team in Singapore. With a record of 14 wins and six losses, including nine wins by submission and two by knockout, Issa has proven to be an exciting competitor with a penchant for spectacular victories. A pioneer of ONE Championship’s bantamweight division, Issa will take on Dae Hwan Kim in his next assignment.

30-year-old South Korean martial artist Dae Hwan Kim owns a professional record of 12-1 with one draw. He joined the promotion in 2013, posting victories over Thanh Vu and Kevin Belingon in his first two bouts in ONE Championship. In 2014, Kim challenged Bibiano Fernandes for the ONE Bantamweight World Championship. With incredible striking prowess and solid grappling ability, Kim is one of the top contenders at bantamweight, and will look to make his return to the ONE Championship cage a successful one when he takes on Leandro Issa.

Singaporean female strawweight contender “Mighty” May Ooi is a martial artist with a professional record of 3-2. A former champion swimmer, Ooi represented Singapore in the 1992 Summer Olympics held in Barcelona. Today, she is one of the country’s most talented martial artists, and a hard-working competitor possessing well-rounded striking and grappling skills. In her most recent contest, Ooi scored a thrilling upset, defeating Malaysia’s Ann “Athena” Osman by first-round submission in her promotional debut. Ooi is now set to make her second appearance inside the ONE Championship cage opposite Cambodia’s Vy Srey Khouch.

Vy Srey Khouch is a highly-regarded Cambodian martial artist and former female boxer who competed in numerous international competitions. She is also a national Khun Khmer champion in her native Cambodia. She made her professional debut in 2015, winning by decision at ONE: KINGDOM OF KHMER. In her most recent bout, Srey Khouch fell just short of victory against Malaysian icon Ann Osman at ONE: THRONE OF TIGERS. In her next bout, she will take on Singaporean women’s martial arts standout, May Ooi.

22-year-old Li Kai Wen of Tianjin is the ONE Featherweight Beijing Tournament 2014 Champion and is one of the most fearsome young competitors from China. Li utilizes his tremendous striking ability and aggression to overwhelm foes with his offense, which has resulted in a series of impressive highlight reel stoppages so far in his young career. On his way to becoming a complete martial artist, Li will be faced with a tough challenge in fellow rising star Ahmed Mujtaba.

Ahmed “The Wolverine” Mujtaba is a Pakistani martial artist competing in ONE Championship’s stacked featherweight division. He owns an impressive professional record of eight wins with only one defeat, with almost all of his wins coming by spectacular finish. Mujtaba is known for his tremendous grappling technique which has led to four submissions out of eight total victories. Mujtaba makes his highly-anticipated return to the ONE Championship cage against Li Kai Wen.

34-year old Japanese martial arts veteran Mei “V.V” Yamaguchi is a female atomweight standout and a former ONE world title challenger from Tokyo. She is the DEEP Jewels Featherweight Champion, and owns seven submissions and two knockouts in her 27-bout professional career. In 2016, Yamaguchi challenged Angela Lee for the inaugural ONE Women’s Atomweight World Championship in an epic showdown that would later win multiple ‘Bout of the Year’ honors from international media publications. In her last bout, Yamaguchi submitted top contender Jenny Huang impressively within two rounds. Yamaguchi will now take on fast-rising Gina Iniong.

Top Filipino women’s martial arts contender Gina “Conviction” Iniong of Baguio City, Philippines, is a six-time national wushu champion and member of the renowned Team Lakay. She owns a professional record of 6-2, with four of her six victories coming by thrilling finish, including two highlight-reel submissions and two knockouts. In her last bout, Iniong impressed once again, defeating tough competitor Priscilla Hertati Lumbangaol by TKO. Next up, Iniong takes on veteran Mei Yamaguchi.

37-year-old Arnaud “The Game” LePont is a lightweight veteran from France who sports a professional record of 11 wins and five losses. A fixture in the Asian martial arts scene, LePont is well-known in local martial arts circles and lives and trains in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. A Pan-Asian Absolute BJJ Champion, he made his promotional debut in 2012, and has since notched two hard-earned victories in the ONE Championship cage. He now returns to action after a short break to take on Richard Corminal.

Filipino lightweight competitor Richard “Lion Heart” Corminal is a Filipino martial artist based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He holds a professional record of four wins and two losses, with each of his career victories to date coming by way of knockout. In his most recent bout, Corminal debuted inside the ONE Championship cage opposite Thai martial arts star Shannon Wiratchai. Corminal now aims for redemption, as he takes on Arnaud LePont in his second appearance in the promotion.

Yang “The Pugilist” Fei of Hubei, China, is a newcomer to ONE Championship, and one of the most promising young Chinese martial arts talents in the game. He sports a professional record of two victories and only one defeat, with both of his wins coming by finish. Making his promotional debut, Yang will seek victory against Muhammad Aiman in a three-round bout.

Former amateur standout Muhammad Aiman of Malaysia is one of Malaysia’s top martial artists. Featuring a well-rounded skill set, Aiman has impressed in his time inside the ONE Championship cage, defeating Hisyam Samsudin by unanimous decision in his first fight inside the ONE Championship cage before stopping Brazilian grappler Eduardo Novaes in his second outing. The 22-year-old is now set to take on another top test when he goes up against Yang Fei.

Tiffany “Soul Crusher” Teo is a female martial artist who competes in ONE Championship’s women’s flyweight division. She holds an unblemished professional record of six wins and no losses, including two submissions and two knockouts. Born in Brunei and raised in Singapore, Teo began training in taekwondo before moving on to compete in boxing and Muay Thai and eventually transitioning to the ONE Championship cage. In her last bout, Teo impressed with a thorough decision victory over Rebecca Heintzman. Teo’s next assignment is against Puja Tomar.

Flyweight competitor Puja Tomar is a martial artist from India with a professional record of three wins and one loss. With a penchant for showcasing her solid striking skills, Tomar has recorded all three of her victories by knockout. Competing largely in her home country of India, the former India wushu champion Tomar now makes her way to the biggest stage in Asian martial arts as she is set to make her ONE Championship debut against top Singaporean talent Tiffany Teo.

Chinese bantamweight prospect Miao Li Tao and Cambodian Khun Khmer practitioner Sim Bunsrun are set to kick off all the action at ONE: IMMORTAL PURSUIT in the evening’s first bout offering. The two strikers will lock horns in an exciting three-round contest, setting the pace of what should be an amazing night of martial arts competition.

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.

DOE Sets New Standard for Diesel

Wazzup Pilipinas!

QUALITY DIESEL FOR CONSUMERS: Spearheaded by the DOE-Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB), oil industry stakeholders held the signing ceremony of the Philippine National Standard (PNS)/DOE Quality Standard (QS):004:2017 on coco-methyl ester (CME)-blended automotive diesel oil specification last 7 November at the Energy Center in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. In photo are the DOE-OIMB team, Technical Committee on Petroleum Products & Additives (TCPPA) members from petroleum manufacturers and marketers, car and motorcycle manufacturers, NGOs, consumers, academe, government agencies and invited technical experts.

Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi announced Friday (17 November) that the Department of Energy (DOE) has established an upgraded standard for automotive diesel oil to further improve fuel quality and lessen its impact on the environment.

“The new Philippine standards for automotive diesel oil is in line with our mandate to implement programs and policies that will complement and comply with existing international and environmental standards for fuel,” Cusi said.

He stressed that the task of ensuring fuel quality is equally important alongside the government’s mission of maintaining stable supply of oil in the country.

Although spearheaded by the DOE-Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB), oil industry stakeholders contributed in the effort by reviewing and approving the Philippine National Standard (PNS)/DOE Quality Standard (QS):004:2017 on coco-methyl ester (CME)-blended automotive diesel oil specification

To formally signify the adoption of the new fuel quality standards, a signing ceremony was held last 7 November at the Energy Center in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

The DOE-OIMB team, Technical Committee on Petroleum Products & Additives (TCPPA) members from petroleum manufacturers and marketers, car and motorcycle manufacturers, NGO’s, consumers, academe, government agencies and invited technical experts participated in the event.

The new PNS for automotive diesel oil contains revised technical provisions to upgrade fuel quality requirement, such as reduced sulfur content limit in compliance with Euro-4 emission standard, and test methods for more accurate evaluation of fuel quality.

It is separate and distinct from the standards of the Industrial Diesel Oils, which has distinct standard designation, specifically PNS/DOE QS 013:2017.

“The primary impact of the new PNS for diesel strengthens the government’s consistent and continuing program towards the use of cleaner fuels and promotion of indigenous and sustainable energy resources with the end view of reducing dependence on imported oil,” Cusi said.

The new PNS for automotive diesel oil also supports the country’s commitment in the international community to reduce carbon emissions through smarter and more efficient use of automotive fuel for transport.

DOE, EU to Support Sustainable Energy in Rural Areas

Wazzup Pilipinas!

ADDRESSING ACCESS TO SUSTAINABLE POWER AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY: The 3rd ASEP Steering Committee Meeting was held last 15 November at the DOE-Audio Visual Room in Taguig City. Representing the DOE were (seated L-R) Dir. Angelina Manga-Administrative Services, Dir. Araceli Soluta-Financial Services, Usec. Felix William Fuentebella, (standing L-R) Dir. Mylene Capongcol-Renewable Energy Management Bureau (REMB), Arthus Tenazas-Legal Services, Dir. Mario Marasigan-Electric Power Industry Management Bureau (EPIMB), Dir. Jesus Tamang-Energy Utilization and Management Bureau and DOF officials, together with counterpart representatives of the EU Delegation were (seated R-L) Dir. Danielle Marie Rieza Culangen-Legal Services, Josephine Tioseco-Non-Key Expert Energy Efficiency, Mr. Enrico Strampelli-Head Development Section, discussed the synchronization of work plans towards the total rural electrification vision of the government using sustainable energy and energy efficiency to empower the Filipinos.

The government will exert greater efforts to provide sustainable energy to rural communities through its ongoing partnership with the European Union's Access to Sustainable Energy Programme (ASEP), the Department of Energy (DOE) said today.

During the 3rd ASEP Steering Committee Meeting held at the DOE AVR room last 15 November, Energy Undersecretary Felix William B. Fuentebella said “Energy Sec. Alfonso G. Cusi requires that ASEP work plans should be synchronized with the Philippine Energy Plan and the sectoral roadmaps.”

“We have to focus on energy efficiency and capacity building to further empower our people, especially those living in the rural communities,” Fuentebella emphasized.

A 6-month progress report covering April-September 2017 submitted to the DOE enumerated work programs already met under the subcomponents of rural electrification, energy efficiency and capacity development programs.

As to rural electrification, completed and undergoing final review by the DOE were: the policies for Missionary Electrification Subsidy Rationalization, Streamlining and Harmonizing Power Contracting Process for Off-Grid and its Implementing Rules and Regulations together with the Enhancing Policy and Regulations to Attract Off-Grid Investments,

For energy efficiency, completed while the preparation of recommendations on Product Particular Requirements (PPRs) for TVs, washing machines and electric fans will continue were: the program for appliance standards and labeling, including the development of PPRs for LED lamps.

Fuentebella said “The DOE-ASEP cooperation initiated a market survey for LED lamps and the design of energy labels for LED, aircon and refrigerators.”

“We are also working with EU-ASEP in drafting a national strategy for energy efficiency in the power sector, strengthening the Government Energy Management Program through building energy performance standards and benchmarking, including reviewing the Energy Efficiency Bill for finalization,” the Energy Official added.

On the capacity development subcomponent, Fuentebella clarified that there will be workshops for the implementation in 2017 until mid-2018 with high-level study abroad, among others.

All of these efforts according to Fuentebella will contribute to fulfilling the three key results areas for the program:
         

1. Strengthening the capacity of energy sector stakeholders to pursue a pro-poor sustainable energy policy and institutional reforms;

2. Facilitating investments aimed at increasing access to renewable energy in rural, remote and high-poverty areas, especially in Mindanao; and

3. Promoting pro-poor and disaster-resilient innovative energy solutions for job creation and wider access, such as solar or hydropower pumps, solar lanterns and solar dyers.

The ASEP is a joint undertaking of the DOE and the EU to promote total electrification, energy security, efficiency and sustainability in the Philippines.

“The DOE remains committed to empowering all Filipinos, especially those who are marginalized and underprivileged, through sustainable and affordable energy options,” Fuentebella concluded.

Travelling Worry Free to Other Countries

 Wazzup Pilipinas!

Here's a tip - when visiting a new place, avoid the heavily beaten track, i.e. tourist spots.

I am a proud Pinoy and have traveled all over the Philippines, plus 46 other countries in Europe, North America, Asia, including Australia - many of them I have visited more than once. I have chatted with a local in Zaragoza (north of Spain) in Spanish about the history of his town.

The Next Eight Semi-Finalists of Asia’s Got Talent Revealed

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The first eight semi-finalists gave it their all and wowed the judges in the first semi-final episode of Asia’s Got Talent. At the end of the episode, it was revealed that Indonesian singer Angela July won the unanimous Judges’ Pick and will now head straight to the Grand Finals. The remaining seven acts are up for voting and only the two acts with the most votes will move on.

The same episode unveiled the next eight semi-finalists performing in next week’s episode of Asia’s Got Talent:

· Mafarikha (#AGTVote10) received a standing ovation from the audience when she belted out the classic Mariah Carey’s “Hero”. Mafarikha sees Asia’s Got Talent as her second chance to launch her singing career so the stakes are extremely high.

· The Sacred Riana’s (#AGTVote11) performance on Asia’s Got Talent went viral globally. Her performance clip on Facebook has over 40 million views, resulting in her winning many new fans. Will these fans be enough to vote her through to the Grand Final? 

· Fitri Cerado (#AGTVote12) didn’t make it last season but she’s back and made it through to the semi-finals with David Foster’s approval. With so many talented singers in this season of Asia’s Got Talent, Fitri will need to bring her A-game to the semi-finals.

· 218 Crew (#AGTVote13) from Vietnam blended LED dance with Vietnamese culture, inciting cheers from the audience. The judges were absolutely blown away by their performance and they hope to see more of their skill in the semi-finals. 

· Nicknamed “Smooth Syah” by Anggun, Syah Riszuan (#AGTVote14) from Singapore proved that you can be 12-years-old and still have an old soul. Will he be able to shine on the stage during semi-finals? 

· Japanese dance crew XTRAP (#AGTVote15) let their fingers do all the talking during their performance at the Judges’ Auditions. David Foster commented that he has never seen anything quite like them before, so no pressure guys!

· DMX (#AGTVote16) from The Philippines floored the audience with their hair-flipping dance performance and they became the judges’ favorite. With their passion and touching backstory, will fans vote for them?

· Jay Park’s Golden Buzzer, ADEM Dance Crew’s (#AGTVote9) performance went viral with their Mortal Kombat-inspired animation dance, putting Kyrgyz Republic on the map. ADEM Dance Crew has so much more to prove during the semi-finals, will they deliver?

In each semi-final episode, the eight acts will perform a dazzling new piece. At the end of each episode, the act that impresses the judges the most will win the Judges’ Pick and head to the Grand Final directly. The seven remaining acts will be up for public voting, and the two acts with the most votes will head to the Grand Final. Voting starts on Thursday night via Facebook Hashtag and Facebook Messenger and Google Search. For more information on voting, visit www.AXN-Asia.com/AGTVote.

A new episode of Asia’s Got Talent airs every Thursday at 8:30pm on AXN. To follow the journey of this season’s acts, check out #AXNAsia and #AsiasGotTalent.

Asia’s Got Talent is the 67th adaptation of the Guinness-World-Record-breaking hit “Got Talent” format, which was created by Simon Cowell’s Syco Entertainment and is co-produced by FremantleMedia. The “Got Talent” format is officially the most successful reality TV format in history and currently airs in 186 countries.

Asia’s Got Talent is supported by presenting sponsor Traveloka, the leading travel booking app for all flight and hotel needs; sponsoring partner Great Eastern Life, the market leader in the conventional life insurance business and the largest life insurer in Malaysia by asset size; and GoDaddy, the world's largest cloud platform dedicated to small, independent ventures.

In the Philippines, Asia’s Got Talent is brought to you by Cherifer, Tangkad Sagad, KFC Delivery and Vivo Smart Phone.

Marina Bay Sands, Asia’s leading business, leisure and entertainment destination, is the official venue partner of Asia’s Got Talent.

@AsiasGotTalent / #AXNAsia / #AsiasGotTalent / #AsiasGotTalentAuditions

www.AXN-Asia.com/AsiasGotTalent

AXN is available on Cablelink Channel 38, Cignal Channel 121, Destiny Cable Channel 61, Dream Satellite TV Channel 20, G Sat Channel 51, and SKYCable Channel 49. AXN HD is available on SKYCable Channel 247.

Disney Olaf's Frozen Adventure Launched at SM Fairview

Wazzup Pilipinas!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas especially when you get invited to a lot of Christmas Tree lightings of many companies.

Among the many brands who conduct a lot of these seasonal activities is SM Supermalls as they also have different kinds of Christmas celebration decors, special sales & promos, and activities related to the holidays.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

SM Fairview recently launched their grand launch on November 11, 2017 of their main Christmas setup located at the mall's Atrium. Get to see Olaf and the rest of Arendelle as they come together for the search for the best Christmas tradition at their Disney Olaf's Frozen Adventure Christmas activities during the holiday season.

Among the celebrities that graced the occasion were the family of Oyoboy Sotto and Kristine Hermosa-Sotto together with their three kids. They help lit up the giant Christmas Tree and greeted the attendees too with a short message. Though they were quite late to arrive at the event due to the traffic congestion at that time, the spirit of Christmas continues especially when seeing a whole family endorsing the event. True enough, the season is for the entire family especially the children who doubly adore the celebrations, from the extravagant decors to the sumptuous meals and lavish gifts and generosity that exchange among fellowmen.

We never got to see any Olaf mascot during the event but were treated to a special song number presented by some adorable kids who lit up the stage with their winter outfits, plus the confetti and balloon shower during the Christmas Tree lighting added glamour and fun to the activity.

There were also some politicians present at the event including Alfred Vargas representing the fifth district of Quezon City who is also a celebrity doing some movie and TV appearances every once in a while like the "Ang Guro Kong Di Marunong Magbasa" which is scheduled to be shown this December.

Krem-Top Bagong Timpla Songwriting Competition Reveals Top Ten Finalists

Wazzup Pilipinas!
A media launch of the Krem-Top Bagong Timpla Songwriting Competition was held on November 09, 2017 at the Restaurant 9501 located at the 14th floor of ELJ Center building of ABS-CBN in Mother Ignacia corner Sct. Albano Avenue in Quezon City.

The event presented the four Krem-Top barkada - ambassadors Inigo Pascual, Joshua Garcia, Ronnie Alonte and Yassi Pressman, and the top ten finalists (composed of the singer and songwriter) of the songwriting competition based on their songs chosen as the top ten among the many entries submitted to Krem-Top Philippines.

The media were able to ask questions to the four ambassadors and finalists of which video coverage could be found on our YouTube channel. We were also given the first opportunity to vote for our top choice to win and the top 5 to get the chance to perform at the Bagong Timpla concert on December 8, 2017, together with one of the popular bands, Parokya ni Edgar, in the country, including Miles Experience and the Krem-Top Barkada, aside from the other prizes - P50,000 and a music video.

The number of YouTube views will comprise 25% of the criteria for judging for the top 5 finalists, while Facebook shares will be 25% as well. You can also visit Krem-Top Cafés located in different .locations and watch the digital gigs at the soundtrip booths. Take one Krem-Top sample and you'll be given a coaster which you can use to vote. You can also buy Krem-Top packs for more votes.

MRT-3 Train Detachment Incident

Wazzup Pilipinas!

This refers to the unfortunate "train detachment" incident that happened at the MRT-3 Ayala station yesterday, 16 November 2017.

First, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Metro Railway Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) management wish to reiterate that it is desirious of addressing the safety issues of the MRT system.

Upon initial investigation of the unfortunate incident, it was found that the Messma Card of the decoupled Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) #68, the 3rd car in Train No. 5, is missing. The Messma Card functions like a black box that records all applied interventions.

MRT-3 Safety Chief Technician Ruel Jose, who led the initial investigation, said there was no electrical fault, as there was no damage to the mechanical parts of the coupler.

"Imposibleng magkahiwalay ang coupler kung walang human intervention," Jose said.

We ask: What is the motive? Who has the capability of removing the black box? Was this an attempt to cover up a mistake on the operation of Train No. 5? Or was there an effort to sabotage the entire operation?

These questions are being addressed right now through proper and scrupulous investigation.

Meanwhile, in response to calls to temporarily stop the operations of the MRT-3, we want the public to know that the DOTr has been considering this option since the first quarter of this year. But, while the DOTr and Secretary Arthur Tugade are aware of the system's current condition, we must also consider the 500,000 commuters that rely on the MRT-3 system daily.

"Basta sa pagsisikap at kasiguruhan ng technical team na ligtas pa rin ang pagsakay sa MRT, tuloy pa rin ang byahe. Bagamat nandyan pa rin ang option na itigil pansamantala ang operation kung ito na talaga ang nararapat na gawin," DOTr Sec. Tugade said.

The DOTr and the MRT-3 management understand the public's dismay. We hear you. We are not belittling the magnitude of the problem, but, we assure the public that the maintenance team is doing all it can, and working overtime to ensure the safety of the entire system. In fact, since the MRT-3 was put under internal management, fewer unloading incidents have been recorded and more number of trains are being rolled out consistently.

The MRT-3 problem is not easy. We acknowledge that it cannot be solved overnight. But, the government is not giving up. The DOTr will not give up. We will do our best until the Filipino people get the service they deserve.

James Reid Leads Fujifilm Ambassadors During Fujifilm X-E3 Media Launch

Wazzup Pilipinas!

"Known for his well-curated social media feed, James Reid is now armed with the best photo buddy, which truly helps him unleash his innate artistry in taking pictures – the new Fujifilm X-E3. This new rangefinder style, mirrorless, and ultra-compact camera is perfect for the Fil-Aussie heartthrob, who enjoys capturing breathtaking sceneries whenever he travels. Aside from Reid, two of the Philippines’ most sought-after young photographers, Magic Liwanag and Shaira Luna, have also fallen in love with this lightweight and mirrorless camera."

At a media launch held on November 9, 2017 at Dulo MNL in Makati, Fujifilm introduced a few ambassadors promoting the latest product innovations through their work or hobbies. Hosted by Nicole Laurel Asencio, attendees were also treated to hands-on appreciation of the new products, instant print-outs of their photos from their smartphones, great food from the restaurant and bar venue and an after-event party.

Utilizing the latest X-Trans CMOS III sensor and powerful X-Processor Pro for best in-class color reproduction in both stills and 4K movies, the X-E3 camera draws out the subject’s color fast and accurately when shot; thus, creating an outstanding image quality.

Moreover, James also finds its user-friendly touchscreen feature very impressive.

“The biggest thing I've noticed is the fact that there's no D-Pad. This is a step towards to the future of cameras. It's all touchscreen now. It has less buttons, less confusing. It's more intuitive, just swipe up and up,” says Reid.

2 FEU Short Films Vie for Viddsee Juree Awards

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Josel Fajardo's Caterwaul and Ralph Quincena's Dungaw (Look Through) are among the ten short films competing for the Gold and Silver Prizes of the Viddsee Juree Awards on November 25 at the Cinematheque Centre Manila.

Fajardo and Quincena worked with their fellow communication students at the Far Eastern University in completing their films. They are also both part of the FEU Film Society.

In Caterwaul, deep secrets come to light at a girls’ sleepover. While watching an R-rated movie, a girl (Andrei Eunice Osano) shares her first sexual experience and re-enacts it to a friend (Quennie Abuyuan), who does not know that she's in for a dark revelation.

Fajardo was inspired by a story he heard from his friend about a female colleague who went missing and got found later. He revealed that he felt uncomfortable making the film at first, as a man writing about a female character’s perspective on a delicate subject. “I struggled to find a way to solve this and all came out smoothly when I collaborated with my friend, Jennifer Leoncio, in writing the script, which gave a female’s perspective in telling the story.”

He also shared a problem he encountered during the shoot. “I had reservations in using male gaze in the language of cinematography and consulted my team first in pre-production. We came to the conclusion that it is was necessary evil to amplify the level of eroticism of the film and also provides the audience a peep-hole to the story of the characters,” he explained.

Meanwhile, in Dungaw, a problematic nursing student (Dennise Concepcion) finds unexpected comfort in a school toilet with the presence of a professor (Trechelle Ras). However, there’s more than meets the eye in the dramatic thriller as the student realizes that there are more secrets in the Nursing Building’s hallowed halls than she has herself.

Dungaw earlier won the Short+Sweet Film Festival Audience Choice Award and Best Actress for Concepcion, the 2017 Ateneo Video Open 2nd Best Film, Best Editing and another Best Actress award for Concepcion, and 3rd Best Film, Audience Choice Award, Best Cinematography and Best Editing at the SinePiyu 2017 Black Reel Category, among others.

Quincena and producer Zheina David made the film to communicate the horrors and pressures of teenage pregnancy while incorporating a much-talked-about story in FEU. The director was also inspired by his aunt who suffered the same fate as one of the characters. “This film aims to raise awareness to the helplessness women feel when caught up with a situation where there is only one escape,” he said.

The other finalists are Christian Candelaria‘s Gawad CCP Best Short Film and Indie Un-Film Festival grand prize winner Sa Saíyang Islá (In His Island), Glenn Barit‘s Cinemalaya NETPAC Jury Prize and Sinag Maynila Best Short Film winner Aliens Ata (Maybe Aliens), Marvin Cabangunay‘s and Jaynus Olaivar‘s CMMA Best Short Film Nakauwi Na (Home), Christian Lat‘s Ottawa Digital Film Festival and International Film Festival Manhattan winner Redlights, Tashana Rivera‘s Kaulayaw (Companion), Rogin Losa‘s Lovely is Off Air, Chloe Veloso‘s Inahan sa Kanunayng Panabang (Mother Of Perpetual Help) and Nathan Bringuer‘s Tirador (Slingshot).

The competing films by upcoming talents from FEU, University of the Philippines, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Meridian International College and International Academy of Film and Television can be viewed online at Viddsee.com.

The top two entries will win production equipment including a Blackmagic URSA Mini 4.6K Digital Cinema Camera EF (Gold Award) and Blackmagic DaVinci Resolve Micro Panel (Silver Award), LaCie Porsche Mobile drive 2TB (Gold) and LaCie Portable Drive 1TB Apple exclusive model (Silver), a one-year Adobe Creative Cloud subscription, RØDE microphones and audio accessories, and a five-day Film Immersion Course in Los Angeles, California from the Motion Picture Association.

Each film shortlisted for the competition will be judged by an international panel of jury composed of Loïc Valceschini, festival programmer of the Neuchâtel International Fantastic Film Festival and Locarno’s Semaine de la Critique or Critics’ Week, Vietnamese film producer and Yxine Film Festival founder Marcus Manh, and Filipino filmmaker and writer Antoinette Jadaone, who is known for directing That Thing Called Tadhana, Love You to the Stars and Back and Six Degrees of Separation from Lilia Cuntapay, just to name a few.

The Viddsee Juree program will start off with talks and film screenings at the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde on November 24. There will also be workshops, talks and screenings of the ten finalists together with a Q&A session with the filmmakers on November 25 at the Cinematheque Centre Manila before culminating with the awarding ceremonies on the same day and in the same venue at 6 p.m. The finalists and out of competition films will also be screened at Cinematheque on the following day. All these are free and open to the public.

Viddsee Juree Awards, which is part of the online entertainment and technology platform’s commitment to celebrate and support filmmakers and film communities in Asia, is held to celebrate the jury’s picks of Asian short films from all genres: fiction, documentary and animation. The initiative is supported by the Film Development Council of the Philippines.

The Juree aims to bridge the gap between digital filmmaking and distribution by working closely with local film communities as the Filipino audience grows and the network of creative content producers from the Philippines expands.

Philippine Short Film on Drug Trade Competes in Singapore

Wazzup Pilipinas!

After competing in the Wide Angle category of the Busan International Film Festival last October, Carlo Fajarda's short film Suerte will vie for awards next in the Southeast Asian short film competition of the 28th Singapore International Film Festival from November 23 to December 3.

Suerte, which literally means luck in Filipino and was used as a name of a street in the film, follows two amateur filmmakers (played by Fajarda himself and the film's director of photography and editor Phillipe Quintos) shooting a documentary about the drug trade. While they go along with their subjects, brothers Betong (Karl Medina) and Roel (Dan Medrana), they slowly get involved until the point of no return. As the night wears on, their dangerous obsession with their project forces them to cross the line between observer and creator.

Fajarda’s thesis film at the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde joins three other Filipino films competing for the Silver Screen Awards in the festival. They are Carlo Francisco Manatad's Jodilerks Dela Cruz, Employee of the Month, Margarita Mina's Puppy Love and Andrew Stephen Lee's The Sound of Coins Hitting Brass.

SGIFF will feature over 100 films from 42 countries. It is the longest-running and leading international film platform in Southeast Asia for independent cinema. Also part of the Philippine contingent in the official selection are Salvage: Malay Wild by Sherad Anthony Sanchez, The One Armed Executioner by Bobby A. Suarez and In the Claws of A Century Wanting by Jewel Maranan.

FVR, The FORUM Host 10th Rafael M. Salas Golf Cup

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Former President Fidel V. Ramos and the Forum for Family Planning & Development Inc. (The FORUM) will host the 10th Rafael M. Salas Golf Cup on November 23, Thursday at the Camp Aguinaldo Golf Club.

With the theme “Nurturing Mother Earth, Women and Girls”, this year’s staging will be participated by at least 100 avid golfers who will play to support the annual event’s cause.

The tournament is open to all amateur golfers for an entry fee of P5,000 that includes a donation to this noble cause, green fee, special edition Salas golf giveaways, door prize, buffet lunch during and raffle.

Participants are also entitled to win the hole-in-one prize at stake – a Ducati Scrambler Sixty2.

Registration opens at 6:00am. Sequential tee-off is from 6:00 to 9:00 am. The ceremonial tee-off at 7:30am shall be led by Former President Ramos himself.

Named in his honor, Mr. Salas is remembered as a patriot par excellence who dedicated himself to serving his people in various government posts notably, Executive Secretary of the late President Ferdinand Marcos. In the international community, he served as the first Executive Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) with the rank of Undersecretary-General and is known as “Mr. Population”.

The event's generous major sponsors include DKT Philippines, San Miguel Corporation, PAGCOR, Filinvest Development Corporation, Marubeni Philippines, Group Management Development Inc., Team Energy, Lopez Group, Northstar Transport Facilities Inc, Asia United Bank, Alpha One (Benedicto Steel Corporation), PCSO, SGV, San Roque Power Corporation, SSS, Land Bank, DBP, Meralco, Pilipinas Shell, Trans Asia, Quickminds, Philippine Resources Savings Bank, Stradcom, Grand Videoke, Business Mirror, among others.

For ticket reservation or sponsorship, please call Golf Marketing Central at 6970520, 0917.8400119 or email golfcentral.ph@gmail.com. 

Discover Delicious New Favorites at FamilyMart: New Fish and Chips and Milk Tea Superfreeze are a Must-Try

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Get ready to dig into a flavorful new meal as FamilyMart brings you Fish and Chips! Thanks to your go-to place for everyday essentials, grabbing a delicious and nutritious bite is easier than ever.

Traditionally an English favorite, FamilyMart’s Fish and Chips features a tender fish fillet lightly fried to a crisp, served with a side of crunchy fries and a zesty tartar sauce that you’ll want at any time of the day.

Swap out your usual calorie overload for this tasty, guilt-free set for only P79, have your fish fillet with rice for only P69, or order it ala carte at only P59.

Pair your Fish and Chips with a refreshing treat as FamilyMart introduces Milk Tea Superfreeze. Experience your favorite blend of flavors in a cool new way and sip on as much as you can hold, with a 12-oz. cup at only P27, 16 oz. at only P35, and 22 oz. at only P45. Go ahead, take a chill fill!

You don’t have to go far to find healthy, sumptuous meals or discover delightful treats. At FamilyMart, there’s always something you’re sure to enjoy and come back to.

For updates, exciting products, and awesome deals, like and follow FamilyMart Philippines on Facebook, @familymartph on Instagram, and @FamilyMartPH on Twitter. For store locations or more information on FamilyMart Philippines, log on to www.familymart.com.ph.

FamilyMart is the 2nd largest convenience store chain in the world with over 18,000 stores across Asia. In the Philippines, FamilyMart has branches in Makati, Fort Bonifacio, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Pasig, Pasay, Alabang and Laguna.

8 Philippine Airports Awarded with On-Time Performance Star Ratings

Wazzup Pilipinas!

 

The Department of Transportation - Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (DOTr-CAAP) welcomes the result of ‎‎2016-2017 Official Aviation Guide (OAG), On-Time Performance (OTP) Star Ratings for airlines and airports, with the country’s Iloilo International Airport landing 14th place with a star rating, besting Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Seoul Incheon International Airport and Hongkong International Airport in rankings.

Out of the 79 airports [with 36 airports operating commercial flights] managed by CAAP all over the country, other Philippine airports that earned star ratings on OTP are NAIA, Bacolod, Davao, Tacloban, Laguindingan (CDO), Kalibo and Puerto Princesa.

The OTP star rating is designed to benchmark against set criteria, defined by industry and flight status information experts. OTP is measured across the whole year based on 12 months’ rolling performance.

To achieve an OTP star rating, the world’s airlines and airports must meet two criteria: all airlines and airports must have a minimum of 600 operations a month (minimum of 2.5 million departed seats) and OAG must receive flight status information for no less than 80 percent of scheduled flights within a 12-month period.

The OAG is an air travel intelligence company based in United Kingdom. It provides digital information and applications to the world's airlines, airports, government agencies and travel-related service companies. OAG is best known for its airline schedules database which holds future and historical flight details for more than 900 airlines and over 4,000 airports.

One Championship Introduces New Documentary Rich Franklin's One Warrior Series

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The largest global sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship (ONE), has just announced the production of new documentary series “Rich Franklin's ONE Warrior Series” which features martial arts legend Rich “Ace” Franklin as he travels from gym to gym all across Asia in search of the next martial arts superstar.

Chatri Sityodtong, Chairman and CEO of ONE Championship, stated: “I am pleased to announce Rich Franklin’s ONE Warrior Series. At ONE Championship, one of our biggest missions is taking martial arts, Asia’s greatest cultural treasure, and placing it front and center for the entire world to witness. One of the ways to do this is by developing local homegrown martial arts superheroes. We are excited to travel across Asia, visiting the most iconic cities, to discover the next big superstar.”

Franklin, a multiple-time middleweight world champion, will travel to various Asian nations to visit local gyms beginning in Bangkok, Manila, Seoul, Tokyo and Beijing to discover new and upcoming martial arts talent. Deserving prospects will be rewarded with a six-figure contract with ONE Championship. The promotion’s elite video production team will be following Franklin’s journey across the region, chronicling the action to produce a series of compelling documentary videos.

Rich Franklin, Vice President of ONE Championship, stated: “Asia is the hotbed of the industry’s top martial arts prospects. It comes as no surprise, since martial arts has been home to the region for the past 5,000 years. Throughout my time in ONE Championship, I have been witness to some of the best martial arts talent I have ever seen. Stars today such as Angela Lee and Eduard Folayang came from the grassroots level of talent in Asia, and the next martial arts superstar is just waiting to be discovered. Follow me on this journey to showcase Asia’s greatest cultural treasure, and join me on the hunt to find ONE Championship’s new wave of superstars.”

Rich Franklin's ONE Warrior Series is a new documentary feature which will run in 30-minute episodes. Since the establishment of ONE Championship in 2011, various martial arts athletes have shot into superstardom in Asia, names such as “Unstoppable” Angela Lee of Singapore, Eduard “Landslide” Folayang of the Philippines, and “The Burmese Python” Aung La N Sang of Myanmar. Rich Franklin's ONE Warrior Series aims at discovering new talent, providing promising young athletes with the platform to unleash their martial arts greatness.

The screening and tryouts process will consist of pad sessions, grappling demonstrations, conditioning exams, and an interview process, among others. Once selected, athletes will compete in trial exhibition bouts with a chance at earning a six-figure contract with ONE Championship based on performance. The first episode of Rich Franklin's ONE Warrior Series is scheduled for release in the first quarter of 2018.

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.

John Legend Brings Darkness and Light Tour to Manila

Wazzup Pilipinas!

10x Grammy Award winner and multi-platinum selling singer-songwriter, John Legend will be returning to Manila for his highly anticipated Darkness And Light World Tour on March 21st, 2018 at the Araneta Coliseum.

John Legend’s latest album Darkness And Light has been a worldwide smash hit with the chart-topping singles “Love Me Now” and “Penthouse Floor” featuring Chance The Rapper. The album debuted on the Top 20 of the Billboard 200 and was streamed over 12-million times in the first week.

Legend serves as one of the principles for Get Lifted Film Co., a film and television production company that serves as Executive Producers on the HBO documentary “Southern Rites”, Pop Network docu-series “Sing It On”, WGN America’s series “Underground”, and films such as “Southside With You” and the critically acclaimed “La La Land”. Legend was also featured in the film and soundtrack of La La Land with the single “Start A Fire” and in the blockbuster Disney movie “Beauty and the Beast” with Ariana Grande.

Fans can expect to hear John Legend perform these new hits with his full live band, as well as his well-loved singles “All Of Me”, “Ordinary People”, “Green Light”, “Used To Love U”, “Save Room”, “Tonight (Best You Ever Had)”, and many more.

Tickets will be on-sale on Thursday, November 30 via TicketNet.com.ph. For more information, visit Wilbros Live on social media.

Facebook/Twitter/Instagram: @WilbrosLive

#JohnLegendMNL

#DarknessAndLightTour