Mediatrix of UST Proudly Presents Hexenringe Musical

Wazzup Pilipinas!

On its 21st year, Mediartrix, the university-wide multimedia organization of the
University of Santo Tomas, proudly presents Hexenringe! An original musical production written by Anna Esguerra.

Find out how the fates of your not-so-average student couple, Joshua and Arwen will unfold as they are lured by the Ringmaster in to what would appear to be nothing short of the greatest traveling circus to have ever existed.

Under the direction of John Mark Saga, Lian Karl Castro, and Louise Jen Manalo,
technical direction of Kristine Alexandra Mendez, production design of Jason Clet, and production management of Jenine Alyssa Micu, this musical production will be staged at the Albertus Magnus Auditorium at the University of Santo Tomas.


Show dates are as follows:

January 31 (4pm-6pm & 7pm-9pm), February 1 (6pm-8pm), February 3 (6pm-8pm),
February 5 (6pm-8pm), February 9 (7pm-9pm), and February 10 (6pm-8pm).


For tickets and inquiries, you may contact:

Pamela Recio (09369514821)
John Christian Calungsod (09178604360)
Jenine Alyssa Micu (09298057751)
or visit us at Room 4B, Tan Yan Kee Student Center, University of Santo Tomas.

You may also follow our social media accounts to learn more about Mediartrix and follow our official hashtags to stay updated for Hexenringe:

#HexenringeMDX #MediartrixEntersHexenringe
Facebook: Mediartrix - UST
Twitter: @MediartrixUST
Instagram: @mediartrixust20

See you there and don't get left behind!

Eye-Popping Laptops from Lenovo’s Latest ThinkPad X1 Series

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The ThinkPad X1 family offers the thinnest, lightest, and most elegant products for professional users, providing uncompromised durability, seamless productivity, and a smarter PC experience.

The new X1 Tablet, X1 Carbon, and X1 Yoga all boast ultra-premium designs packed with new state-of-the-art innovations, such as Dolby Vision™ HDR1, for unsurpassed performance, flexibility, and style.


Highlights of the new line-up include:

X1 Carbon and X1 Yoga are the first PCs announced that will support Dolby Vision high dynamic range (HDR) imaging1.

New 13-inch form factor for X1 Tablet with a 3K display that is compatible with HDR2
ThinkShutter physical webcam cover for camera security confidence

Omnipresent Type C charging for cross-platform compatibility

Universal Docking solutions for widespread compatibility and key-lock security

New Far-Field microphones deliver unsurpassed voice capability including hands free Amazon Alexa3

Bloatware free Lenovo “Crystal” Windows 10 software preloads

Near borderless bezels for new 4K UHD ThinkVision X1 Monitor


ThinkPad X1 Tablet Highlights:

Uncompromising PC performance with Intel 8th Gen Intel® Core™ processors and full-function ThinkPad keyboard experience

Enhanced user interaction with new vibrant 13-inch HDR Ready2 3K display and Lenovo Pen Pro

Legendary ThinkPad durability with Mil-Spec testing and robust security with IR Camera and Fingerprint Reader in combination with Windows Hello


ThinkPad X1 Carbon and X1 Yoga Highlights:

World’s first laptops announced to support Dolby Vision HDR1 and an exceptionally bright display supporting up to 500 NITS peak brightness

The new 360o Far-Field Communication microphones support Wake on Voice function and hands-free Amazon Alexa3

Replace camera-covering sticky notes with ThinkShutter Camera Privacy physical webcam cover

Glance eye tracking with IR camera offers heightened productivity and security

X1 Carbon remains the world lightest 14-inch commercial laptop4 with a virtually unbreakable chassis built using advanced carbon fiber composite

X1 Yoga is the world’s only convertible with integrated pen and Global LTE-A capability5


New State-of-the-Art Innovations:


Dolby Vision HDR

The X1 Carbon and X1 Yoga are available with a stunning new display boasting 100 percent Adobe RGB color gamut and support up to 500 NITS peak brightness, which offers an unbelievable viewing experience. Both devices will support Dolby Vision pending a future software update, a superior HDR experience developed by Dolby. 

Leveraging the HDR innovation that powers Dolby’s most advanced cinemas around the world, Dolby Vision transforms entertainment experiences by delivering greater brightness and contrast, as well as a fuller palette of rich colors.

Dolby’s deep expertise in bringing advanced technologies from the cinema to the home and on the go, has led to distinct features that enable Dolby Vision to deliver extraordinary viewing experiences to consumers on Lenovo PCs.

In addition, a multi-touch option is now available on the X1 Carbon, the world’s lightest 14” commercial laptop4.


ThinkPad X1 Carbon with Dolby Vision HDR

ThinkShutter Camera Privacy:

One of our customers’ top concerns is webcam privacy and the fear of being “spied upon” through unauthorized control of their webcam.  That’s why we designed the new ThinkShutter Camera Privacy on X1 Carbon and X1 Yoga to address this pain point. It functions as a physical webcam cover, so no more sticky-notes.

World Class Docking Solutions:

ThinkPad X1 Carbon supports the most extensive docking portfolio in the industry, including a new side mechanical dock using standard USB-C connectors giving maximum flexibility and keylock security to the user.  Customers can also opt for alternative docking solutions including USB-C and Thunderbolt™ 3. Our extensively tested portfolio offers simple home, hot-desk or huddle room docking flexibility. Users will get quick access to remote resources, high-speed Input/Output and dual 4K display capability, all while their ThinkPad battery continues to be charged.

Amazon Alexa Enabled3:

With Amazon Alexa on the new X1 series you can play music, get news, control your smart home or shop just using your voice. Alexa is always getting smarter, delivering new capabilities automatically. Using Alexa on the new X1 series is simple and hands free – just ask, and Alexa will respond instantly.


Lenovo Crystal Image:

Crystal Image is an enhanced, minimal-profile software preload based on the highly praised Microsoft Signature image.  ThinkPad Crystal Image streamlines and reduces the number of preloaded Apps, lays the foundation to support the future of customer deployment and imaging via Microsoft AutoPilot.


ThinkPad X1 Series in Detail:

ThinkPad X1 Tablet: Reengineered for Premium Mobility

The redesigned 3rd generation ThinkPad X1 Tablet brings full PC performance and function into an all new detachable form factor powered by Intel 8th Gen Intel® Core™ processors. A new vibrant 13-inch 3K display compatible with HDR2, an improved full-function ThinkPad keyboard experience and optional global LTE-A connectivity offer uncompromised productivity and mobility. 

We designed the ThinkPad X1 Tablet to withstand nearly any work environment with MIL-SPEC testing for ruggedness and durability. Understanding that the desk may not be the digital professional’s everyday work space, X1 Tablet supports natural interactions with a new pen, facial recognition via IR camera and all-day battery life6.  The optional Lenovo Pen Pro supports 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and provides a natural and responsive writing experience with tilt-to-shade function and up to 26 days of battery life on a full charge.

ThinkPad X1 Tablet features a new 3K 13-inch display

ThinkPad X1 Carbon 6th Gen: The World’s Lightest 14-Inch Business Laptop4
Tested to survive water, extreme heat and ice7, the latest ThinkPad X1 Carbon merges beauty and legendary durability to create a laptop packed with distinctive engineering. New USB-C mechanical side docking make office connectivity a breeze and your productivity soars with Glance eye tracking as you navigate around your multi-monitor configuration, if you can tear your eyes away from the stunning premium Dolby Vision capable Display. The new microphones with 360o Far Field Communication can reach you up to four meters away, so voice control and web calls remain productive while multi-tasking. And remember to slide across the ThinkShutter if camera privacy is a major concern.

When you leave the office, it gets even better. Global LTE-A wireless connectivity option keeps you in touch virtually everywhere and up to 15 hours of battery life6 will keep you powered throughout the day. With the Rapid Charge battery, a brief one-hour charge adds up to 12 more hours of productivity if you really need it. Laptops are at their most vulnerable on the road, but anti-spoofing fingerprint reader and facial recognition will keep out unwanted users, and provide simple authentication with Windows Hello.

If you want touch display on the thinnest commercial laptop, we now offer FHD touch on the X1 Carbon without any thickness or weight impact. 


ThinkPad X1 Carbon is the world’s lightest 14-inch business laptop at 2.49 pounds4

ThinkPad X1 Yoga 3rd Gen: The Most Capable Professional 2-in-1
The X1 Yoga, known for its unique retractable keyboard and integrated ThinkPad Pen Pro, takes the innovative capabilities of the X1 Carbon and places them in a convertible form. This means multi-mode enthusiasts can get 8th Gen Intel® Core™ processors and the all-new Premium Dolby Vision capable display in a flexible form-factor. The new 360o Far-Field Communication microphones support Wake on Voice function and offer superior audio and video conferencing. And the ThinkShutter Camera Privacy securely covers the webcam – a simple solution, but quite an engineering feat in such a thin package.

Stay agile and connected on the road with Global LTE-A wireless and rest assured that 12 Mil-Spec tests and more than 200 quality checks means the X1 Yoga is built to survive daily business battles. Facial recognition (with the optional IR camera) and fingerprint reader will ensure your data is protected, even if the worst was to happen.

The ThinkPad X1 Yoga adds an all-new level of professional capability to the convertible market

Complementary Accessory Eco-System
The ThinkPad X1 series comes with an extensive list of optional accessories to enhance the user experience and flexibility at work or home. From new docking options to carry cases and privacy filters, we have an option to match virtually every requirement.

For example, augment your home office environment with the new ThinkVision X1 monitor. The updated 27-inch UHD display features one of the world’s slimmest profiles at just 4.7mm and four-side near borderless bezels. The ThinkVision X1 is not just about appearance though. The Thunderbolt™ 3 port offers a true one-cable solution for this display that boasts more than 99 percent sRGB 10-bit color gamut to produce images that are bright and vivid. The webcam features a unique “Motor-Camera” system with dual-array microphones that automatically raises and lowers when the user needs it.

Pricing and Availability:

All Lenovo products will be available on www.lenovo.com.

ThinkPad X1 Carbon 6th Gen will be available from January 2018, starting at $1,709 (USD)

ThinkPad X1 Yoga 3rd Gen will be available from January 2018, starting at $1,889

ThinkPad X1 Tablet 3rd Gen will be available from March 2018, starting at $1,599

ThinkVision X1 monitor will be available from January 2018, starting price coming soon

Specs for the ThinkPad X1 Carbon 6th Gen can be found at http://bit.ly/2EPBVp6

Specs for the ThinkPad X1 Yoga 3rd Gen can be found at http://bit.ly/2lPAazS

Specs for the ThinkPad X1 Tablet 3rd Gen can be found at http://bit.ly/2lNaAw7

Specs for the ThinkVision X1 display can be found at http://bit.ly/2CBugMU

More details on the ThinkPad 2018 portfolio and new side docking solution can be found here: http://lnv.gy/2CxXOep

Full 2018 CES press kit at http://news.lenovo.com/CES2018
Discover more at www.lenovo.com/ces.
Intel Inside®. Extraordinary Performance Outside.

1 Dolby Vision will be enabled a future software update

2 HDR support expected in future builds of Windows 10

3 Amazon Alexa will be coming to ThinkPad X1 Series in the US during the first half of 2018

4 Based on 14-inch business-class laptops from vendors shipping more than 1 million units annually, as of 01/08/18

5 Based on convertible laptops from vendors shipping more than 1 million units annually, as of 01/08/18

6 Measured using BAPCo MobileMark 14

7 ThinkPad X1 Carbon passes MIL-STED 810G tests including operating temperatures up to 43 degrees C and down to -21 degrees C. The keyboard spill tray is designed to cope with up to 500ml of liquid.

Harnessing the Full Potential of Social Media for Business - Tips You Cannot Ignore

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Today Messenger apps are quite popular in the world. Studies have shown that nearly 60% users have seen an increase in their business in the past few years because of their using messaging services for their business. Almost 50% people said they preferred to message a business center rather than call them. More than 45% people felt they would prefer to, instead, shop with businesses which allowed messaging services. In this article, you will learn about ways in which you can use Facebook messenger app for your business and generate good revenues.


1. Present your contents

The easiest and simplest way you can deliver your contents to your followers is via email. However, research has shown that using messenger is a more advantageous alternative. You can skip sending your readers to fill out the form and instead directly give them access to your content via messages. Readers will appreciate this because they will feel they do not have to spend their valuable time in filling out forms. Using this strategy will give you more clicks and views, studies had shown that an increase of over 200% in view rates and 600 % click rates are registered when customers received contents directly via messengers. So if you use this tip, you are likely to get more people to see your content, which will generate in creating more subscribers and consequently more revenues.


2. It is free

Messenger is a free app, and it will continue to remain free regardless of the fact how many messages get sent. It is also easy because it creates a direct communication between your business and the reader. You can use chatbots to send your messages. Remember to give an element of personal touch to the messages you send.


3. Give your followers relevant content

You can use messenger to help followers get content that is relevant to them; this will generate in your followers getting more interest in your messages because they will know that contents sent by you are useful to them. Messenger chatbots are quite efficient in helping followers find those articles which they have interests in and would love to read. This is very helpful for your content marketing as it will provide non-intrusive ways for you to present relevant and personalized contents to your followers.


4. Engage your participants in events

You can send your followers important information regarding events which they have signed up to. You can engage them in debates and competitions and memes. This practice will generate an element of interaction between you and your audience. The target here is to make your messages feel interesting to the reader so that would look forward to them. This will also allow them to share exciting contents which will help you in getting more exposure to other people and thus you will get more followers.


5. Promote your business through personal messages

Understand what your followers need and send them personalized messages about how you can provide the products or services which would serve them well. Generate trust between your company and your followers.

Conclusion
Messenger for marketing via social media is an upcoming concept and with proper techniques and patience, you can use it to great advantage to boost your business.

Data Recovery — Should You Attempt DIY or Call an Expert for the Job?

Wazzup Pilipinas!

You never know when your hard drive can crash, and in the process, you lose sensitive data that is important for your company. You will panic as the downtime will cost your company dear, and you will try to attempt to recover the data on your own. If you are sound in IT skills you can be a success, however, if you are not adept at IT skills, make the smart choice and call in professionals for the task.


3 Reasons not to recover lost data yourself

In a bid to save time and money, it is apparent that you will make the desperate attempt to recover the lost data on your own. Chances are you will damage the situation further. The following are the key reasons why you should not attempt to recover data on your own-

Permanent loss of data – You never know when you can permanently lose data and cause severe damage to your company. Be wise and call in licensed professionals that have experience and skills in the task.

More costs – Yes, in case you damage the situation further, you would need to incur more costs to repair the problem, and there is no guarantee that you will receive your data back.

A loss to the company- If you lose sensitive data and information, this will be a loss to your company, and you might even lose customers. There have been instances where companies have lost loyal customers in the process of making personal attempts to get the lost data themselves.


Reasons to call in experts for your data recovery needs

The following are the top reasons as to why you should call in experts for the need-

Experience – As mentioned above experience matters. Ask them to look into the problem and take the appropriate steps. They will identify loopholes and counsel you accordingly.

Skills - These professionals have the skills that are needed for data recovery and so big or small- no project is hard for them. They focus on data recovery, and this is why they can be relied upon when it comes to getting data recovery services for emergencies and your general needs.

Licensed – They have licensed professionals, and so you know your systems are in safe hands.

Privacy – It is crucial for you to retain the confidentiality and the privacy of your company while professionals are working on data recovery services. You will have peace of mind as company data, and vital information will never leak out

Safety – You need professionals that will work safely and ensure you get the best for your individual needs. They will guide and counsel you on the measures that you must take for data recovery services. They will submit reports and help you resolve concerns and problems as well.

Ask for price quotes and compare prices
Data recovery Philadelphia experts say you should shortlist the names of the data recovery services in your area and compare their services along with price quotes. Some companies give you free estimates, and with them, you can get a general idea about the nature of the services they provide if there are cases of data recovery of lost or corrupt data in your company.

Check the after - service support
After service support is an important criterion that you should check on when you are going in for data recovery services. This support might cost you money, but at the same time, it will help you get the peace of mind when you need to call these professionals again for data recovery immediately after their primary service.

Call professionals and speak to them
Check the attitude and the friendliness of the professionals that are making data recovery for you. Ask them questions and see how they respond to your queries. They should be patient and have the enthusiasm to answer all your queries and concerns successfully.

Bank on reputed professionals only
Credibility has a value and so ensure that the experts you call for data recovery have integrity and goodwill in the market. You must research well and check proven track records so that you can be reassured when they step in to manage your data recovery needs. Read customer testimonials and check on what their ratings are. Read honest reviews and always speak to the professionals for any clarifications you might have.

Therefore, from the above, it is evident that you should always call in professionals over trying to recover lost data on your own from the hard drive. Once you have managed to rely on a good data recovery company, you can save their number and call them over every time you need help when your drive crashes, and you have lost your data!

Author Bio:
Sujain Thomas is a data recovery manager with https://americantechpros.com/, and she says take time and research well when you are looking for competent data recovery professionals for your company needs.

SAGC Speech During Signing Ceremony: Donation of E-Trikes For Marawi City

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Below is the speech of Department of Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi during the signing ceremony of the donation of E-Trikes for Marawi City in Mindanao:

"Task Force Bangon Marawi Chairman and concurrent HUDCC Chief Eduardo Del Rosario, Partners and friends, good morning.

Welcome to the ceremonial signing for the donation of E-Trikes for Marawi city. Today’s event is a significant step in our persistent efforts to rebuild Marawi.

Under president Rodrigo R. Duterte’s directive not just to rebuild, but to rebuild better, the department of energy is among the many government agencies working very hard with Task Force Bangon Marawi for this tremendous cause.

Providing our brothers and sisters in Marawi with E-Trikes is not only about providing them with an energy-efficient mode of transporation. These E-Trikes also represent a means to support their livelihood and jumpstart increased economic activity in the area.

To further enhance the benefits of these E-Trikes, the doe, together with our stakeholders in Mindanao, is expediting the establishment of charging stations to maintain and increase the durability of these energy efficient vehicles.

I commend the Task Force Bangon Marawi, our colleagues in the government, members of the energy family, as well as our electric cooperatives, particuarly Lasureco, in all your efforts to ensure the speedy re-energization of the city.

Our dear partners for change, we assure you that we will not rest until Marawi returns to the beautiful and culturally rich city it truly is. Maraming salamat po at magandang umaga po uli sa ating lahat."

Sec. Alfonso G. Cusi
DOE Media Center
12 January 2018

DOE Donates 200 E-Trikes to Marawi

Wazzup Pilipinas!

E-TRIKES for MARAWI: Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi driving an energy efficient Electric Tricycle, one of the 200 E-Trikes donated by the DOE to Marawi through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding today Friday at the Energy Center in BGC, Taguig City.

The Department of Energy (DOE) donated 200 units of energy efficient electric tricycles to the local government units (LGUs) of Marawi as part of its efforts to help rebuild the city.

The donation was made through Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) formalizing the turnover of the E-Trikes.

The MOU between Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi and TFBM Chairperson and HUDCC Secretary Eduardo D. Del Rosario was signed today, Friday, January 12 at the DOE Headquarters witnessed by local government unit (LGU) of Marawi and other DOE officials.



The vehicles are expected to help those affected by the siege for their livelihood and daily movement from point to point.

The E-Trikes donation comes as Marawi City is undergoing rebuilding after the end of a five-month take-over by terrorists that resulted to more than P17 billion in property damage and opportunities lost.

“Under President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s directive to rebuild, the DOE is among the many government agencies working very hard with Task Force Bangon Marawi for this tremendous cause,” said Cusi.



According to Cusi, the rehabilitation for Marawi aims to develop sustainable and equitable resettlement areas for the affected population of the siege.

Cusi said, “More than having an energy-efficient mode of transportation, the DOE E-Trikes for Marawi will provide livelihood to its beneficiaries and jumpstart economic activities in the area.”

The DOE E-Trikes are alternative transportations that are safe, comfortable with relatively reduced noise and environment-friendly compared to other common tricycles.

Local commuters can use the E-Trikes for their daily trips to and from relocation sites, schools, health centers, markets, places of worship and other destinations.

The E-Trikes can be charged at home through common electrical outlets.

The DOE, with the help of the stakeholders in Marawi/Mindanao, is also expediting the establishment of charging stations to maintain and increase durability of these energy efficient vehicles.

Cusi assured that “the DOE will continue to uphold its mandate in providing secure, reliable and sustainable energy to spur sustained growth with inclusivity.”

The signing ceremony was attended by the DOE family and representatives from the TFBM, National Economic Development Authority, LGU of Marawi led by City Mayor Majul Gandamra, Officials of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC), Asian Development Bank, and members of the media.

The DOE is the implementing agency of the Market Transformation through the Introduction of Energy-Efficient Electric Vehicles Project otherwise known as the Electric Vehicle Project and is in the process of deploying the same.

TFBM, which was established under Administrative Order (AO) No. 3 issued by President Rodrigo R. Duterte on June 28, 2017, is a group of different government agencies tasked to facilitate the rehabilitation, recovery and reconstruction of Marawi City.

The mandate of the Task Force is to develop and implement a comprehensive rehabilitation and recovery program based on a post-conflict needs assessment.

DepEd Advances Indigenous Peoples Education Through Committed, Sustained Dialogue with IP Communities

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones reaffirmed the Department of Education’s (DepEd) commitment to further strengthen the Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd) Program through continuous consultations with IP elders, leaders, and community representatives during the 2017 National Indigenous Peoples Education Gathering on January 10 in Davao City.

The Gathering commemorated 10 years of meaningful dialogue between DepEd and IP communities all over the country that led to the birth of various policy issuances that provide appropriate directions for IPEd Program implementing regions and divisions, so that initiatives are responsive to the aspirations and educational needs of IP learners.

A prayer-blessing also opened the second decade of dialogue, with community elders and leaders expressing their hopes for a deepening relationship between IP communities and DepEd, and praying for the guidance and well-being of all those involved in implementing the IPEd Program.

In her keynote message, Briones highlighted specific education concerns that have direct bearing on IP learners and communities and the implementation of an education that is geared toward a more quality, accessible, relevant, and liberating basic education for all.

She underscored the importance of environmental protection in the curriculum as one way to contribute in keeping IP learners and communities safe, as their identity, culture, and livelihood are shaped by the natural environment surrounding their communities.

“So kailangan talaga, tayo na umaasa sa natural environment, dapat tayo ang mangunguna sa pag-protect nito… I-protect ang ating livelihood dahil ang katutubo, hindi lang nagpuputol ng kahoy, hindi ba? Pinapalitan iyan dahil alam naman natin na iyon ang nagshe-shelter sa atin, ” Briones said.

She called on DepEd to be a champion of the environment as this is a concern of all, not only of IP communities.

The Education chief also mentioned the significance of utilizing technology in ensuring that the cultures of various IP communities in the country are nurtured and protected: “Kailangan gamitin natin ang technology para ipalaganap ang ating kultura, pamamaraan, at pamumuhay.”

Briones committed that as DepEd continues its efforts to enhance the curriculum, concerns of IP learners and communities will be included. “Marami pang pagbabago ang gagawin natin sa curriculum, pero ang importante, hindi natin iiwan ang mga katutubo.”

Furthermore, she conveyed her message not just for IP learners but to all Filipino learners, "You have to be brave, you should be courageous, you should not be afraid even as you know that the world is changing and by the time that you graduate, it will change even more.”

Also present at the event were Undersecretaries Alberto Muyot, Jesus Mateo, Lorna Dino, Alain Del Pascua, Annalyn Sevilla, and Victoria Catibog; Assistant Secretaries Revsee Escobedo and Josephine Maribojoc; and former Education Secretaries Jesli Lapus and Mona Valisno.


Notable milestones

As of 2016, the IPEd Program has reached 16 regions, 31 cities, and 80 provinces; established mechanisms for engagement and partnership with 170 Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) in 290 communities nationwide; developed more than 500 contextualized lesson plans in collaboration with 60 ICCs located in over 200 communities nationwide; and conducted basic training on IPEd and the use of contextualized lesson plans to 2,718 schools serving IP learners.

The IPEd Program is also working on the development of the basic requirements —orthography, dictionary, grammar book, and reading materials—to implement the Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE) with 65 ICCs.

In support of the program, DepEd continuously crafts policies based on community feedback through consultations and relevant studies that will address the education concerns of IP communities. Concerns addressed by policies formulated in the five years of IPEd Program implementation include the recognition of non-profit private schools serving IP learners, cultural sensitivity in dealing with aspects of IP culture, curriculum contextualization, and hiring of teachers for schools implementing IPEd, among others.

With the opening of the second decade of dialogue, future directions include institutionalizing the mechanisms of dialogue towards effective curriculum contextualization and program implementation, strengthening and expanding school level implementation of the IPEd Program, and systematizing the delivery of DepEd services—both formal and ALS—in far-flung IP communities, among others.

AFPI: New P5 coin will be accepted at LRT / MRT Ticket Vending Machines by March

Wazzup Pilipinas!

AF Payments Inc. (AFPI), the company behind the Automated Fare Collection System beep™ and the supplier of the self-service Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs) in LRT1, LRT2 and MRT, has begun the calibration needed for TVMs to accept the new five peso coins released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) late last year.

The calibration work will be conducted in Germany where the supplier of the coin acceptor unit used in the machines is based. AFPI’s partner in Germany is one of the leading suppliers of vending machine coin acceptors in the world.

Taking into consideration any unforeseen delays in the process, the new coins are expected to be usable at all TVMs across the three elevated railways (LRT 1, LRT 2, and MRT 3) this March.

“For the protection of our consumers and the train operators we serve, we only work with experienced and reputable suppliers who have the capability to perform this type of sensitive system upgrade” said Agnes Padilla, spokesperson for AF Payments, Inc.

In the meantime, AFPI advises the commuting public to double-check their five peso coins before inserting them into the TVMs to avoid any inconvenience. It also reminds passengers that they can opt to buy Single Journey Tickets and even replace their new coins for old ones at the station tellers.

Lastly, the company reminds the public that they can purchase and reload the tap-and-go beep™ cards at FamilyMart, Circle K, SM Bill Pay, Robinsons Business Center and Bayad Center outlets as well as at the stations.

DepEd Receives Training Course Manual for Child Protection Specialists

Wazzup Pilipinas!
As part of its continuing efforts to promote the Child Protection Policy, the Department of Education (DepEd) received 1,500 copies of the manual entitled “Breaking the Chain of Violence Against Children: A Specialized Training Course for DepEd Child Protection Specialists” from Consuelo Zobel Alger Foundation on January 9.

The donated training course manuals will be given to all the trained and designated child protection specialists (CPS) of DepEd, and will be used by the participants of the second level training, to help them gain expertise on providing technical advice and referring child protection cases, advocating for the protection of children, and disseminating information to their respective schools and offices.
On behalf of the Department, Undersecretary for Legal Affairs Alberto Muyot received the manuals officially turned over by Consuelo Zobel Alger Foundation’s Managing Director, Atty. Carmela Andal-Castro.

In his foreword message for the manual, Muyot expressed the importance of creating a safe and nurturing environment for learners; “DepEd recognizes that for a teaching-learning environment to be truly beneficial and meaningful for learners, it should promote all their rights, especially their right to be protected from all forms of abuse.”

Castro also expressed her hopes that the publication of the CPS training manual would help teachers, school officials, and even parents combat abuse, neglect, and exploitation of learners.
The training course manual contains the training program, materials for the training modules, and the references used such as the DepEd Order No. 40, s. 2012 or the DepEd Child Protection Policy and the Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act.

Pursuant to Department Order No. 131, s. 2016, and to further boost the implementation of its policies on child protection, DepEd shall train and designate CPS who will provide technical guidance to the schools and their respective schools divisions on complex or serious cases of child abuse brought to their attention, and recommend actions to address the same based on existing Child Protection-related laws and pertinent DepEd issuances.

The CPS shall also assist in referring cases to concerned government, non-government, or other agencies for appropriate interventions or further case management.
There are two levels of training for CPS: (1) National Training of Trainers on Child Protection; and (2) Child Protection Specialist Training.

To date, there are 290 trained and designated CPSs in Regions 1, 3, 4A, 4B, 5, 6, 7, 8, Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), and National Capital Region (NCR). There will be additional three batches for the Second Level Training in February and March, with participants from Regions 2, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13.

“We hope that this training course can adequately address the needs of our child protection specialists. It is our goal to train individuals to be knowledgeable on the holistic approaches to child protection,” Muyot concluded.


Photo caption: DepEd Undersecretary Alberto Muyot receives 1,500 copies of training course manuals for Child Protection Specialists (CPS) donated by Consuelo Zobel Alger

Celine Dion Announce Live 2018 Tour to Play in Manila

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Tickets Go On Sale To The Public Beginning 18 January 2018

World-renowned singer Celine Dion has announced she will head overseas this summer with her highly anticipated LIVE 2018 Tour to perform in seven cities across the Asia-Pacific region. Scheduled to kick-off 26 June in Tokyo, the CELINE DION LIVE 2018 Tour will see Celine return to cities she hasn’t performed in for ten years, including Tokyo and Macao, and cities she will perform in for the first time ever, including Singapore, Jakarta, Taipei, Manila and Bangkok.

Tickets for CELINE DION LIVE 2018 in Manila will go on sale to the public beginning 18 January at 10 a.m. Members of TeamCeline will have access to purchase tickets before the public through an advance pre-sale from 16 January to 17 January. The tour is produced by AEG Presents and co-produced by Ovation Productions in Manila.

Tickets for CELINE DION LIVE 2018 Tour in Manila will go on-sale to the public beginning 18 January.

For tickets and information visit celinedion.com and smtickets.com.



CELINE DION LIVE 2018 Tour Dates:

26 June
Tokyo
Tokyo Dome

29 June
Macao
Cotai Arena at The Venetian Macao
3 July
Singapore
Marina Bay Sands Grand Ballroom

4 July
Singapore
Marina Bay Sands Grand Ballroom

7 July
Jakarta
Sentul International Convention Center

11 July
Taipei
Taipei Arena

13 July
Taipei
Taipei Arena

19 July
Manila
Mall of Asia Arena

23 July
Bangkok
Impact Arena

One of the most immediately recognized, widely respected and successful performers in pop music history, Celine Dion has sold almost 250 million albums during her over 30-year career. She has earned five Grammy Awards, two Academy Awards and seven American Music Awards.

In 2004, Celine received the Diamond award at the World Music Awards recognizing her status as the best-selling female artist of all time. In 2016, the Billboard Music Awards presented her with the lifetime achievement Icon Award.

Celine continues to break records with her ongoing Las Vegas residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace which has played over 1,000 shows to more than four million fans.

Always-on and Always Connected – Meet the New Lenovo Miix 630 2-in-1 Detachable

Wazzup Pilipinas!

This CES 2018, we’re teaming up with Qualcomm and Microsoft to bring mobile computing to consumers in a whole new way. Meet the new Miix 630, Lenovo’s latest Windows 10 S 2-in-1 detachable that gives you the power and productivity of a laptop with the always on, always connected mobility of a smartphone.1 This isn’t just Wi-Fi. We’re talking about true anytime, anywhere mobility – with integrated 4G LTE1 so you don’t have to just rely on finding a Wi-Fi hotspot. Now you can have the instant-on, whisper-quiet operation of a smartphone in the form of a versatile 2-in-1 detachable with a full-sized keyboard and digital pen included.2

Here are the top five benefits the new Miix 630 can make in your productivity.


#1: Everyday PC Performance

We built the Miix 630 with Qualcomm’s innovative Snapdragon™ 835 Mobile PC Platform on the Windows 10 S operating system, so you can get work done on the go. Its full-sized backlit keyboard with precision touchpad gives you a comfortable and convenient typing experience to compile reports, design presentations or crunch numbers. We’ve also equipped it with a Lenovo digital pen with 1,024 levels of sensitivity so you can draw, sketch or annotate with Windows Ink™ for a natural pen-on-paper experience.

The Miix 630 runs on Windows 10 S, making it ideal for users who want consistent performance and streamlined security by running apps exclusively from the Microsoft Store. If you prefer the familiarity of Windows 10 Pro, the Miix 630 allows you to upgrade at no cost so you can choose the operating system that fits your needs.3


#2: Fast Smartphone Connectivity

We made the Miix 630 for today’s mobile generation. It delivers the kind of always-on, always connected1 freedom that smartphone users expect, and what laptop users want. Whether you’re working from a coffee shop or airport, you can now eliminate dependence on public Wi-Fi networks or the hassle of having to create a hotspot from your phone.

More than just anytime, anywhere connectivity, the Miix 630 offers lightning-fast connections1. Its integrated 4G LTE1 is designed for fast download speeds allowing you to check emails, share files, shop online or stream your favorite show without a hitch.


#3: Your Mobile Sidekick

Even with its keyboard, the Miix 630 is just 15.6mm (0.6 in) and featherlight weighing just 1.33kg (2.93 lbs).  The Miix 630 offers incredibly long battery life of up to 20 hours of local video playback4 -- letting you leave the power cord at home. Better yet, the Miix 630 gives you constant connection even in standby mode – offering longer battery usage.5 Standby mode lets you stay connected with up-to-the-minute emails, notifications, message syncing and Skype calls in standby mode – all without draining your battery.


#4: Smooth, Quiet Operator

The Miix 630 is built with a fan-less design that packs more power with efficient heat processing into a smaller Snapdragon 835 mobile chipset. Its quiet operations make it ideal for working in quiet public spaces like the library, classroom or co-working space.


#5:  Versatile Inside and Out

The Miix 630 2-in-1 detachable gives you five ways to intuitively interact with your device. Browse social media or watch videos on its 12.3-inch WUXGA+ touchscreen tablet, draw and edit with its Lenovo digital pen, or attach its full-sized keyboard to comfortably type those longer emails. The detachable keyboard can serve as a screen protector when you’re on the go.

The Miix 630 also offers amazing personalization. Windows 10 S enables Cortana®, your voice-enabled intelligent personal digital assistant, on the Miix 630. Get reminders, track flights, send short emails, play music and much more – all with just your voice. Pair its infrared camera with Windows Hello™ for quick and more secure log-in to your Miix 630. Having biometric facial recognition adds a layer of security and personalization for instantaneous log-in.

Experience next-gen mobile computing with the Miix 630 that combines PC performance; fast integrated 4G LTE1 for anytime, anywhere connectivity; and the incredible mobility and versatility of a 2-in-1 detachable.

The Miix 630 (keyboard and Lenovo digital pen included) starts at $799.99, expected to be available beginning in 2nd quarter of 2018 on www.lenovo.com2 and will be compatible with select local carriers (prices may vary per market).1
Discover more at www.lenovo.com/lenovolaunch and www.lenovo.com/ces.


1 Requires separately purchased cellular data plan that may vary by location. Additional terms, conditions and/or charges apply. Connection speeds will vary due to location, environment, network conditions and other factors.
2 Prices do not include tax, shipping or options and are subject to change without notice; additional terms and conditions apply. Reseller prices may vary. On-shelf dates may vary by geography and products may only be available in selected markets. All offers subject to availability. Lenovo reserves the right to alter product offerings, features and specifications at any time without notice.
3 Upgrade must be within 180 days after Windows activation. All offers subject to availability and may vary by market. Lenovo reserves the right to alter product offerings, features and specifications at any time without notice.
4 Up to 20 hours based on local video playback requires unit configured with Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 SoC, 4gb RAM, 128gb UFS storage. Battery life tested using continuous FHD video playback, 1080p (1920x1080) resolution, 150 nits brightness, system audio level at 17%, player audio level at 100%, played full-screen from local storage, headphone attached, wireless on but not connected. All battery life claims are approximate. Actual battery performance will vary and depend on numerous factors including product configuration and usage, software, operating conditions, wireless functionality, power management settings, screen brightness and other factors. The maximum capacity of the battery will naturally decrease with time and usage.
5 Based on QTI Labs internal testing compared to competitive thin and light 2-in-1 devices.


LENOVO is a trademark of Lenovo. CES is a trademark of the Consumer Technology Association. Qualcomm and Snapdragon are trademarks of Qualcomm Incorporated, registered in the United States and other countries. Qualcomm Snapdragon, Qualcomm Connected Camera Platform and Qualcomm Home Hub Platform are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. MICROSOFT, WINDOWS, WINDOWS INK, WINDOWS HELLO and CORTANA are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2018, Lenovo Group Limited.

How to Cultivate Exceptional Writing Skills for Success in College and Beyond

Wazzup Pilipinas!

In today’s world, exceptional writing skills have become a major ingredient for success in both college and the workplace. Prospective students have had to demonstrate their writing ability through college application essays. Enrolled students, on the other hand, continue to utilize writing skills when writing term papers, applying for financial aid and other educational endeavors.

Looking at the workplace scenario, writing skills are still relevant. They are needed in making job applications, writing resumes, making business proposals, propositions and making effective business communications. In essence, writing skills are vital for life.

In this respect, let’s consider how you can cultivate the exceptional writing skills that will guarantee you success in your college life and beyond.




Enroll in a Writing Course

Consider enrolment in a writing course

An essential part of developing your writing skills is getting the necessary training required for exceptional writing. You can get such training through workshops, courses and targeted instruction. Depending on your goals and intended purpose, the writing course could be general or specific to your career or studying field. Writing courses, just like most courses, have a novice level, intermediate and advanced level; thus you can gauge yourself according to these levels and determine your type of training. You can choose to pursue the course in a physical training center or you can still pursue it online if the institution offers such facilities.



Have a Writing Partner

Writing partners can bring objective peer review

Peer review has been a beneficial ideal since time immemorial in virtually all fields. It typically rides on the notion of ‘iron sharpens iron’! You can greatly improve your writing skills by having a writing partner who checks, edits, proofreads and evaluates your written work. This makes you have an objective appraisal of your work which most of the time cannot be achieved if you personally reviewed the work. A writing partner can assist you immensely in checking the flow, readability, comprehensiveness and clarity of your work, whether in school or in the workplace scenario.



Utilize Writing Tools and Applications

Writing tools such as Grammarly can enhance your content

Sometimes, all we need is a writing tool to enhance the writing process. We could have the necessary set of skills to write, but the writing workload could be overwhelming. In this case, a writing tool can be of great aid. If you need to proofread your work, check on style, change the diction, tweak the vocabulary or perhaps improve the readability of your work for your niche audience, writing tools can help you. For example, grammarly.com aids in checking grammar and proofreading your work; Juicy Studio can help you improve the readability of your content, among others.



Form a Habit of Writing

Write as often as you can

It is said that it is easy to maintain a writing habit than to maintain the discipline to write. Therefore, if you want to develop exceptional writing skills, you are better off making writing a habit. To achieve this, try to write as much as you can. Write about everything and anything for you to enjoy the process. In the first instance, it may seem hard but within no time, you will live to write.



Read Widely

Reading exposes you to best writing techniques

The only way you can get versatile in the writing world is if you have a feel for what other people are writing. This means that you will have to read widely. Your best pick could be of magazines and books of popular journalists and writers. This exposes you to the strategies, techniques and methods that are being used by various renowned writers. This exposure could help you to grasp a thing or two about creating effective catchy content; which will help you greatly in your writing endeavors in college and beyond.


Practice Writing in Different Styles

Explore different writing styles

If you want to be an exceptional writer, you must determine what works for you and what doesn’t. What better way to achieve this than to try out different styles of writing! Once you embark on this, you will know which style suits you and where your proficiency lies. In addition, it may also expose you to the tenets of different writing styles which may come in handy at one time in college life or beyond.


Conclusion
These tips are sure to help you cultivate exceptional writing skills that could help you achieve success in your college life and even beyond. You can apply them as you endeavor to improve. But one thing is ultimately needed in applying them, that is, the love for writing. If you can develop the love for writing, then all these other tips will be easy to apply.

Sophia Clark graduated from the University of the City of New York with B.A. in Journalism, 2011. She is a creative writer from New York who loves to share her thoughts with readers, now she writes for EssayWriterSite. In her free time, she enjoys writing fiction as well as reading it. Her big dream is to publish a novel one day. Connect with her on Twitter and Google +.

DOTr MRT-3 Procures Independent Safety Auditor to Decide on 48 Dalian Trains’ Fate

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Department of Transportation Metro Rail Transit-3 (DOTr MRT-3) has completed the procurement of an Independent Audit and Assessment (IAA) Consultant, that will evaluate and make recommendations on what to do with the 48 cars or Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs) that have already been delivered by CRRC Dalian, in addition to evaluating and making recommendations for other components of MRT-3.

DOTr OIC Undersecretary for Railways TJ Batan said that last 3 January, the first working day of 2018, the DOTr MRT-3 Team already met with TUV Rheinland, the winning IAA Consultant.

TUV Rheinland, a German firm established in 1872, met the high qualifications set — ISO 17020 and ISO 17065 certification, and membership in the International Federation of Inspection Agencies (IFIA). Other similarly qualified firms that participated were TUV SUD and Bureau Veritas.

Commenting on whether the 48 LRVs will be used, Usec. Batan said in a press conference held yesterday, 10 January 2018, at the MRT-3 Depot, “Na-deliver na po yung mga bagon, but we are unable to accept them unless our IAA Consultant has certified their safety and compatibility with our system.”

Usec. Batan noted that the DOTr has assured the IAA that they will not interfere or influence their assessment of the 48 LRVs.

“We will not in any way try to influence their independent assessment of the 48 cars from Dalian, at tayo po ay magdedesisyon base po sa kanilang recommendation. Kung sasabihin po nila na puwede po iyang patakbuhin ng kaagad-agaran, we will consider. Kung sasabihin po nila ay patatakbuhin yan na may kinakailangang adjustments, we will consider, of course not at our expense. At kung sasabihin po nila na kailangang ibalik yan, ibabalik po natin yan,” he added.

Earlier, concerns were raised with the 48 LRVs procured by the previous administration for P3.8 billion after they exceeded the weight prescribed in the Terms of Reference (49,700-kg vs. 46,300-kg). Compatibility with the MRT-3’s maintenance facilities and signaling system were also an issue.

Usec. Batan explained that with the current fleet of Czech-made trains, MRT-3 can operate up to 20 3-car trains. If the 48 LRVs are cleared to run, that can be increased to 20 4-car trains.

“Ang original design capacity po ng MRT-3 at peak hours is 20 3-car trains, running at 60-kph, with a 3-minutes headway. Ibig po sabihin niyan ay every 3 minutes dapat may dumarating na 3 bagon,” Usec Batan said.

“At the same time po, MRT-3 was also designed to be expandable to 20 4-car trains, running with a 2-minutes headway, or 4 na bagon kada 2 minuto. Yan po ang target natin, at kung sakali pong ma clear ng ating IAA Consultant ang 48 LRVs, ay mas maaga po nating magagawa yan,” he added.


Maintenance and Spare Parts

Spare parts for the maintenance of MRT-3 will start arriving in tranches from February to June, with MRT-3 having started to procure them last November 2017.

Batan said they will utilize the Holy Week break, during which there will be no operations, to conduct general maintenance works on MRT-3.

“Tuwing Holy Week tayo po ay nagsasagawa ng general maintenance sa buong MRT-3, at yan po ang tingin namin na mainam na target para madagdagan ang bilang ng mga tumatakbong bagon. Ito po ay dahil na rin sa inaasahan naming nakarating na ang marami sa mga spare parts na na-order na at patuloy pa nating inoorder para sa MRT-3,” he said.

Based on its contract, Busan Universal Rail Inc. (BURI), the previous maintenance provider, was supposed to have completed the general overhaul of 26 LRVs by November 2017. When they were terminated last November 6, BURI was only able to overhaul 3 LRVs, which is one of the causes for their termination.


No MRT-3 Fare Hike

Usec. Batan assured train commuters that there would be no fare increase while there is no substantial improvement of MRT-3 operations, restoring convenience to its thousands of patrons daily.

“Ang commitment po natin sa sektor ng riles ay hindi po tayo magtataas ng pasahe na hindi po nakakaramdam ang ating mga commuters ng improvement sa convenience, availability at reliability po ng ating mga sistema. hindi lang po dito sa MRT-3, kundi sa lahat ng sistema ng riles,” he said.

Updates on CHED K+12 Faculty Scholarship Allowances

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairperson Patricia B. Licuanan explained that only 4,096 faculty scholars under its local scholarships are experiencing delays in the release of living allowances, clarifying earlier reports that 9,500 scholars have been affected.

As of today, the Commission has fully released allowances for 2,051 scholars who have submitted complete documentary requirements, an ongoing effort since November 2017 following the resumption of the processing of allowances after the COA Notices of Suspension were issued.

Understanding the delays the Program has encountered, the Commission has also approved the partial release of living allowances for 1,011 scholars with valid contracts and enrolment forms, despite pending requirements. The balance will be released to these scholars upon submission of remaining documents to the CHED Regional Offices. Meanwhile, 933 scholars will receive no allowances due to non-submission of enrollment forms.

“We request our scholars with pending documentary submissions to please submit the remaining requirements to the CHED Regional Offices at the soonest possible time so that we can facilitate the release of allowances to our remaining grantees,” said the CHED Chairperson.

“We in CHED deeply regret the impact the delays has caused our scholars,” said Licuanan. “But it is important to understand the factors that contributed to these delays: among them, discrepancies and deficiencies in documents, the volume of documentation that required thorough vetting following initial audit, and the need to abide with government accounting and auditing rules, which we, as an agency, also had to comply with,” she continued.

“The Commission has not stopped in its review and improvement of current systems since the program began in 2016. In fact, refinements have been integrated into the system regularly following each semester, to reduce potential errors and causes of delays,” said Licuanan.

The K to 12 Transition Program began in 2016 to prevent the massive displacement of higher education faculty and staff, as a result of lesser workloads in colleges and universities due to the implementation of Senior High School (SHS), while upgrading the quality of higher education.

“Yes, there have been challenges, but we hope the public also sees what the Program has achieved as a whole: apart from the scholarships, CHED is also supporting 307 faculty members undergoing industry immersion, trained 3,792 college faculty for the new and enhanced curriculum, trained 6,494 teachers for Senior High School, developed 17 cutting-edge graduate programs with the top universities in the United Kingdom, awarded 201 institutional grants for colleges and universities, and 163 grants for research and extension, among others.”

Licuanan also denounced malicious allegations of corruption and mismanagement of funds allotted for the living allowances and other grants under the program. According to the Chairperson, “It has been my personal commitment to stamp out corruption in CHED since day one, despite the odds. We have implemented the Program with the highest level of ethical stewardship. Every peso is accounted for.”

Rise in Fraud Transactions at Banco de Oro (BDO) Alarming

Wazzup Pilipinas!

There has been a rise in fraud transactions involving Banco De Oro (BDO) depositors, specifically on ATM withdrawals and online transactions.

Depositors are bewildered upon discovering the loss of their money even to a point of almost zero balance.

“I do hope BDO will FIND WAYS to fix this... These banks who handle our hard-earned money should FIND WAYS and see to it that our money is secured.”

They finally admitted that there was a problem. I hope their handling of customers complaints improve. I experienced disconcern from branch personnel, and even told that it (unauthorized transaction) was partly my fault. They also denied any system glitches.

I cannot help thinking that in this time and in this world, no one is safe, and no place is safe. I save money so that during emergencies, I would have something to use. But it is frustrating and depressing that it would get loss even if you keep it in a trusted bank.

BDO will probably not make any commitment to return all the missing deposits because they know it would be a big loss for their bank once they started to pay off the aggrieved parties. ny single amount spent would affect their bottom line figure (net income)? That is how serious BDO is in terms of income loss due to fraudulent means?

Below is BDO's official statement as posted on their Facebook page:

To our valued clients,

In the recent months, there has been an increased number of clients that have experienced suspicious bank account transactions involving withdrawals and purchases done without their knowledge.

In the 4th quarter of 2017, we have seen an extraordinary rise in fraud attacks towards the entire industry with an increase in the number of claims for unauthorized transactions taking place in other countries.

We are currently running a thorough investigation process that involves tracing individual transactions, checking any irregularities and identifying signals of fraud from millions of valid transactions everyday. This challenging task is done to ensure that all cases are addressed accordingly, and that a resolution is served for all valid cases.

We also wish to remind you to keep your account information private, as well as to be mindful of people requesting for your personal account details through phone, SMS, email, or websites. Unscrupulous individuals and groups are constantly preying on unsuspecting clients to collect their bank information through skimming, phishing, social engineering, and other devious ways.

To help our affected clients, we encourage you to formally file a report via email (callcenter@bdo.com.ph), its international toll free number (IAC +800-8-631-8000), or its domestic hotline (631-8000).

Your account’s safety and security are our top priority.

The Lenovo Mirage Camera with Daydream - Allows Everyone to Share Their Own Virtual Reality

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Lenovo announced, in partnership with Google, the Lenovo Mirage Camera with Daydream, a powerful new tool that lets you capture and relive memories like you’re really in the moment. The Lenovo Mirage Camera is a VR camera that simplifies creating virtual reality content with easy video or image capture and wireless upload to your personal Google Photos and YouTube account. VR180 eliminates the need for specialized virtual reality videography skills and professional camera gear to shoot immersive 3D VR videos and photos. Everyday users and digital storytellers can now create, produce and share immersive content without expending extra effort or equipment—just point, shoot, relive and share.

Launching the Lenovo Mirage Solo and Lenovo Mirage Camera with Daydream together reaffirms our commitment to designing products that are different for the sake of being better. Together, the Lenovo Mirage Camera and Lenovo Mirage Solo with Daydream complement each other for users interested in immersive VR but who want affordable prices, high-quality content and simple set-up. A compact point-and-shoot camera, the Lenovo Mirage Camera, slips right into your pocket and supports YouTube’s new VR180 video format. Its dual 13MP fisheye cameras achieve depth in image and video by capturing the same images at slightly different angles to form a 3D effect, in which near objects look near, while far objects appear far. The two lenses also offer a 180 x 180-degree field of view to let you see more.

Finally, we built the Lenovo Mirage Camera at a price for mainstream consumers; democratizing VR by proving you don’t need expensive equipment or computers to make VR. Experience Once-in-a-Lifetime—on Demand“You had to be there.”

Until now, reliving experiences through 2D videos and photos just isn’t the same as the real thing. But what if you could perfectly capture the feeling of “being there”? The Lenovo Mirage Camera lets you share your once-in-a-lifetime moments with friends, so they can see what you saw in exactly the same lifelike clarity and feel what you experienced first-hand.


Relive those precious moments with family as if you were there again, replaying your daughter’s game-winning goal or recapturing that feeling when your dad unwrapped the perfect birthday gift. The excitement of a live concert or game, the majesty of the Rocky Mountains or the razzle-dazzle of a street performance—all can be captured, relived and shared. 

Just Point and Shoot

Just point and shoot. We designed the Lenovo Mirage Camera for simplicity with just three buttons—power, shutter and function. Toggle between three modes: photo, video and live broadcasting.

You can even pair with your smartphone via Wi-Fi Direct. Download the VR180 app by Google to make your phone’s screen act as a viewfinder, letting you preview all your photos and videos. About the size of a smartphone and weighing just 139 grams, the Lenovo Mirage Camera fits into small pockets so it travels where you do.VR180 Made SimpleVR180 videos act exactly like standard 2D videos in YouTube, Google Photos and companion apps—meaning you can watch the same ultra-high-resolution 4K video on your phone, tablet or PC—all without needing a headset. But owning a VR headset such as a Google Cardboard or the Lenovo Mirage Solo with Daydream adds the immersion element to your viewing experience and encourages you to watch again and again.

And like 2D videos, VR180 videos can also be edited with familiar and popular video editing software. You can work with Adobe Premiere Pro to edit VR180 videos in post-production without having to learn and adopt different formats or using specialized hardware to stitch footage.

Instantaneous SharingYou can share instantly. We integrated the Lenovo Mirage Camera tightly with Google Photos and YouTube. While you can store your content on the camera’s 16GB1 on-board eMMC (or use an optional microSD card for up to 128GB of additional storage), all content can also be uploaded to Google Photos. You can also upload live broadcasts and videos to your YouTube VR account, thanks to the camera’s Wi-Fi - no smartphone required.

The device houses the Qualcomm Connected Camera Platform with a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 626 SoC which features integrated high-quality dual cameras and powerful processing with built-in Wi-Fi and even an integrated X9 LTE cellular modem in the LTE version, 2GB of RAM, USB Type-C charging and a slot for a removable battery. The camera offers up to two hours of continuous usage for high-resolution video recording.2

And in addition to the Lenovo Mirage Camera, we’re also launching two more devices today in collaboration with Google and Qualcomm to bring immersive, life-like experiences to our customers:

Lenovo Mirage Solo with Daydream is the world’s first standalone Daydream VR headset, matching simplicity with immersion to bring you the next generation of virtual reality; Lenovo Smart Display features the Google Assistant built into a vibrant full HD touchscreen display.3

The Mirage Camera (Wi-Fi version) starts at $299.99 and is expected to be available beginning in the second quarter this year.4

All products are available on www.lenovo.com.4

Discover more at www.lenovo.com/lenovolaunch and www.lenovo.com/ces.

Actual available capacity of user storage is less because the operating system, and other software which utilize part of this capacity. 

Actual results will vary, and depend on numerous factors including product configuration and usage, operating conditions, wireless functionality and other factors. The maximum capacity of the battery will naturally decrease with time and usage.

3 FHD touchscreen display is available on the Lenovo Smart Display 10-inch model.

4 Lenovo Mirage Camera LTE version is available in select markets. Prices do not include tax, shipping or options and are subject to change without notice; additional terms and conditions apply. Reseller prices may vary. On-shelf dates may vary by geography and products may only be available in selected markets. All offers subject to availability. Lenovo reserves the right to alter product offerings, features and specifications at any time without notice.

LENOVO and LENOVO MIRAGE are trademarks of Lenovo. CES is a trademark of the Consumer Technology Association. Qualcomm and Snapdragon are trademarks of Qualcomm Incorporated, registered in the United States and other countries. Qualcomm Snapdragon and Qualcomm Connected Camera Platform are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or is subsidiaries. GOOGLE, DAYDREAM, GOOGLE CARDBOARD, GOOGLE ASSISTANT, GOOGLE PHOTOS and YOUTUBE are trademarks of Google, Inc. ADOBE and ADOBE PREMIERE are trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2018, Lenovo Group Limited.

Seeing is Believing on the New Lenovo Smart Display – with the Google Assistant Built In

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Lenovo and Google are teaming up again in a big way. This CES 2018, we’re introducing an intuitive and personalized way to make your home smarter and make life easier. Meet the new Lenovo Smart Display with the Google Assistant built into a vibrant full HD touchscreen display and wrapped in a minimalist, modern design.1 It’s the ideal home companion for busy families who need easy-to-use, time-saving technology.

With the Lenovo Smart Display, the Google Assistant can help you kickstart your morning and get the latest weather, traffic and meeting schedules or you can relax in the evening by video calling friends with Google Duo, watching YouTube videos, enjoying your favorite tunes or managing your connected devices – all with just your voice and a quick glance at the display.


Start, and end, your day with “Hey Google”

Imagine Mom waking up to a picture of her jampacked day full of meetings and errands with just a quick glance at her calendar on the large 8-inch or 10-inch screen of the Lenovo Smart Display. The Google Assistant can also read out her schedule and tell her the weather as she multi-tasks to get everyone out the door. Ask the Google Assistant for traffic updates it will bring up Google Maps™ to show Mom the fastest morning commute. It also reminds her on her way out that it’s her colleague’s birthday, so she simply asks the Google Assistant on her Lenovo Smart Display to show the closest open bakery on Google Maps to pick up a birthday cake. To save Mom even more time, the Google Assistant on Lenovo Smart Display will be able to set up routines designed to help Mom when getting out the door in the morning, or returning home in the evening.

Powered by the newly announced Qualcomm Home Hub Platform based on the Qualcomm SDA 624 SoC which features integrated CPU, GPU and DSP as well as robust Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, the Lenovo Smart Display can also give you a hand at home after a long day’s work. Picture Dad in the kitchen making a new dish for a dinner party. Hands coated in marinade and dinner guests arriving soon, he asks the Google Assistant on his Lenovo Smart Display to show a YouTube video tutorial of the recipe. Just like that, a world-famous celebrity chef appears – in Full HD video along with a 10-watt full-range speaker – to help guide Dad through the cooking step by step.1 With the Google Assistant, the Lenovo Smart Display is a singular command hub for your connected smart home devices, including those through Nest and other manufacturers from lighting to heating and more - all with just your voice or touch.



After dinner, Grandma checks in on video call from her trip abroad and Dad picks up her call hands-free, with just his voice. Available in both 8-inch and 10-inch models, the Lenovo Smart Display rotates from portrait to landscape mode so the whole family can fit into the frame to talk with Grandma using Google Duo, available on Android and iOS phones.2


Fits into your modern home décor

The Lenovo Smart Display’s clean, minimalist design not only blends into your home but also adds a modern touch to it. Available in a soft Grey or natural Bamboo color, it matches most wooden, glass or granite tabletops.3 It’s flexible too - the display can be positioned horizontally or vertically to fit nearly any space. When not in use, the display doubles as a digital picture frame - showcasing an ambient screen of beautiful pictures from a personally selected album in Google Photos™, or another background image of your choosing.

The 10-inch Lenovo Smart Display starts at $249.99 and the 8-inch model starts at $199.99, both expected to be available early this summer.

All products are available on www.lenovo.com. 4

Discover more at www.lenovo.com/lenovolaunch and www.lenovo.com/ces.

1 FHD touchscreen display is available on the Lenovo Smart Display 10-inch model.
2 Google Duo is pre-installed on all new Android devices and is also available on iOS.
3 The 10-inch Lenovo Smart Display comes in Bamboo color, and the 8-inch model comes in Grey.
4 Prices do not include tax, shipping or options and are subject to change without notice; additional terms and conditions apply. Reseller prices may vary. On-shelf dates may vary by geography and products may only be available in selected markets. All offers subject to availability. Lenovo reserves the right to alter product offerings, features and specifications at any time without notice.

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DOE Tightens Watch on Gas Stations, Depots; Deploys Inspectors

Wazzup Pilipinas!

A team of inspectors from the Department of Energy's Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB) has been deployed to randomly inspect the inventory of gasoline stations and depots for proper oil excise tax implementation.

The inspectors will verify if the excise tax under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act is actually applied on inventories beyond those existing as of December 31, 2017.

Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi reiterated his warning against any violation of the TRAIN law.

"Violators may be administratively subjected to the cancellation of their Certificates of Compliance (COC)," said Cusi.

Criminal cases such as estafa and profiteering may be filed in court for violations of the Oil Deregulation Law and the Revised Penal Code, Cusi said.

"The DOE will also endorse these violators to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) for a special audit," he added.

Cusi said the inspection procedure starts with inspectors introducing themselves to gasoline station or depots and informing their purpose, which is to inspect the inventory.

Inspectors will use the Inspection Report Form (IRF), which indicates punitive measures in case of violation.

Inspectors will get the data on the inventory as of Dec. 31, 2017 and subsequent withdrawals from those inventories to determine if the new excise tax under TRAIN is applied only to new stocks.

Upon accomplishment of the IRF, it should be signed by the OIMB Inspector and conformed by the authorized representative of the retail station or depot.

Rene Catalan Eyes First 2018 Win for the Philippines in ONE Championship

Wazzup Pilipinas!

With 2018 bringing in a whole new set of good opportunities for local talents in the Philippines, homegrown Filipino combatant Rene “The Challenger” Catalan is looking to kick off the Philippine mixed martial arts scene’s promising new year with a sweet win as he dons the country’s colors on the undercard of ONE: KINGS OF COURAGE.

Catalan squares off with China’s Peng Xue Wen in a three-round strawweight affair at ONE: KINGS OF COURAGE, which takes place at the Jakarta Convention Center in Indonesia on 20 January.

A highly-decorated Wushu practitioner, Catalan seeks to continue his winning ways inside the ONE Championship cage after picking up two noteworthy victories in 2017.

Catalan started his 2017 on a high note by submitting Indonesian prospect Adrian Matheis via a second-round armbar in January before routing China’s Bu Huo You Ga by way of unanimous decision seven months later.

As the lone Filipino representative at ONE Championship’s first live event of 2018, Catalan seeks to tally the country’s first win in Asia’s premier martial arts organization this year.

“I am exerting a tremendous amount of effort in training. I want to keep on winning,” he said. “I am inspired to win my match this coming January 20 because I am representing the Philippines. It is always an honor to fight for my country. My goal in this bout is to win and bring pride to my nation.”

For Catalan, his first trip to the ONE Championship cage this 2018 is another step in his evolution as a martial artist, hoping to keep up his winning streak and inch him closer to a potential shot at the ONE Strawweight World Championship.

“My goal is to compete for the ONE Strawweight World Championship. I know before I get to that stage, I still have a lot of work ahead of me,” he stated.

Catalan had a rough beginning to his tenure in ONE Championship, but over the past year and a half, he has completely turned his career around.

Despite a tough promotional debut under the ONE Championship banner, which saw him lose to now-reigning ONE Strawweight World Champion Alex “Little Rock” Silva, Catalan has rallied back.

Catalan has strung together three consecutive victories since September 2016 and will look to break into the upper echelon of the division when he meets Peng at ONE: KINGS OF COURAGE.

“I have a certain game plan, but I am prepared to defend against his wrestling,” he shared.

Peng is a 2014 Chinese National Youth Grecco Champion who made his promotional debut at ONE: LEGENDS OF THE WORLD in Manila, Philippines last November.

The Chinese standout leaned on his impeccable grappling to overwhelm Cambodia’s Phat Soda before knocking him out with an awe-inspiring suplex halfway through the opening stanza.

Catalan is well aware of his opponent’s grappling expertise and is diligently training to refute his bread-and-butter as well as his explosive skillset.

“I am preparing a solid defense against him, but of course I am mixing in some offense as well. I am not sure if he will expect that I will add a twist to my game, but 80 percent of my preparation is in strength and conditioning,” he explained.

“For this match, I think the strategy will flow once I am in the cage. I will just do my best to get the win, but also provide an exciting bout for the audience to enjoy,” Catalan added.

Catalan expects that if he secures a decisive win over Peng at ONE: KINGS OF COURAGE, it will grant him a rematch with Silva for the ONE Strawweight World Championship belt.

“Every fighter dreams to become a world champion. I really hope that ONE Championship will give me an opportunity to vie for the title in the future. This bout might be the door to a world title contest. Let us all hope for the best,” he ended.

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