Be Unstoppable with Yamaha Mio

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Yamaha Motor Philippines presents its We Are Mio campaign led by the number one AT, the MIO. The cultivation of the riding culture continues by representing these motorcycles as the vessel of today. On the MIO, you are ageless, forever young, always trending, and the fun never stops!

Also introduced were Yamaha’s newest ambassadors, the Miollennials. Each one represents a character and a lifestyle that riders can familiarize with. They are BoyBandPH for the all new Mio Sporty, Matteo Guidicelli for the Mio Aerox 155, Drew Arellano for the Mio Soul I 125, and Nadine Lustre for the Mio I 125. The campaign was officially introduced on February 14 which was a perfect display for the love of riding. It was debuted at the newly minted Yamaha Monuments station where the entire facility was covered in the Mio Be Unstoppable theme. Yamaha also had its own dedicated Yamaha train with the Miollennials on its façade. During the grand launch, Drew Arellano greeted enthusiasts of the MIO and BoyBandPH put on a show for everyone in attendance.

Yamaha’s message to everyone is clear. It’s time to be movers,makers, and fearless doers. Be unstoppable with the Yamaha MIO.

DTI Releases Order on Mandatory Implementation of LED Lamp Standard

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) issued the Department Administrative Order (DAO) 18-02 adopting the Philippine National Standard International -
Electrotechnical Commission (PNS/IEC) 62560:2012 – Self-Ballasted LED Lamps for
General Lighting Services by Voltage > 50V – Safety Requirements, as one of the PNS
for mandatory implementation under the DTI-Bureau of Philippine Standards’ (DTI-
BPS) Product Certification Scheme.

The DAO 18-02 declares the Philippine National Standard (PNS) for Self- Ballasted
LED Lamps for General Lighting Services, for mandatory implementation thus, the self-ballasted LED lamp is now added to the list of products that the DTI regulates prior to their distribution to the market.

DTI- Consumer Protection Group (DTI-CPG) Undersecretary Atty. Ruth B. Castelo
emphasized, “This DAO is a result of a series of public consultations with relevant
stakeholders. This will further the department’s efforts in ensuring the safety of our consumers especially now that more and more individuals and organizations are using LED lamps in their homes and workplaces”.

Under the DAO 18-02, the importers or manufacturers of self-ballasted LED lamps with a rated wattage of up to 30 W; a rated voltage of > 50 V up to 250V; and, E14 and
E27capped- LED lamps, must secure an Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) or a
Philippine Standard (PS) License prior to its distribution and sale.

The DAO 18-02 also states that a manufacturer must be able to conduct test
parameters on marking completeness, legibility, and durability; interchangeability; protection against accidental contact with live parts; insulation resistance and electric
strength test; mechanical strength test (torsion resistance); and, cap temperature rise.
“We advise the buying public to make it a habit to look for the PS mark or ICC stickers
when purchasing not only LED lamps, but also other products that the DTI regulates.
This will only help ascertain that these products were tested and verified for their safety and quality,” DTI-BPS Director-in-Charge Engr. James Empeño affirmed.

Signed last 29 January 2018, the DTI DAO 18-02 or the Mandatory Philippine National
Standard (PNS) for Ballasted LED Lamps for General Lighting Services takes effect 15
days after its publication in a national newspaper of general circulation.

On-Demand Delivery Platform, Mober, Receives Funding from Philippine Logistics Giant to Speed Up its Expansion

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Mober Technology PTE (Mober), the first-ever tech startup that offers an on-demand platform for same-day delivery service in the Philippines, has partnered with 2GO Group Inc.

Mober Founder and CEO Dennis Ng said aside from the latest capital infusion, they will now also get to service SM's businesses providing them same-day delivery capabilities. Mober, the platform chosen by brands like Dunlop, Betterdogs, Fujidenzo, Adidas, Mandaue Foam, and Dimensione, will be adding SM Appliance, Our Home, SM Department Stores, and other SM affiliates to its roster of clients.

Mober's same-day cargo delivery service connects small and medium enterprises (SMEs), shoppers, and all families with a cost-effective, safe and fast logistical service with a dedicated customer support.

"We saw a problem that SME’s usually encounter - they have to buy their own delivery van, increased CapEx. So we realized why not build a company which provides a solution to this problem," Ng said. "From individual to businesses, Mober helps you move forward in just a few taps using our Mober app. It's a click, load, deliver scheme. We offer pick-up and delivery services that’s tailored to your specific needs."

Founded in December 2015, Mober has changed the buying behavior of the Filipino market as they now expect a same-day delivery when shopping for bulky items.

Mober intends to use the investment proceeds to expand its business in key cities in the Philippines, to further enhance the Mober app (available on Google Play and App Store) for better scalability, and to add more van partners to better serve affiliates’ requirements.

2GO Group President Frederic DyBuncio said: "Mober fills in the gap for 2GO being a technology platform that allows on-demand delivery service for big items."

Meanwhile, 2GO Logistics Chief Operating Officer Ricardo Aguas said with the new partnership, the Philippines is actually witnessing a synergy of tech and business innovations in the local logistics scene.

"This is also a strategic partnership for 2GO as we are also embracing the multiple opportunities the digital world brings," Aguas said.

Other on-demand services Mober offers include booking of home and store deliveries on the same day or advance, pet shuttle, among others that assure worry-free logistic support and service.

"We in Mober prioritize our customers all the time. We make sure our van partners are trained enough to provide convenience in delivering big items and to handle our customers' valuable items with utmost care," Ng added.

Aside from a dedicated customer support, Mober also features Transparent Pricing, GPS Tracking, SMS or Call Contact, Real-time Driver Spot, and Cargo Insurance.

ePLDT VITRO Makati Receives PCI Data Security Standard Version 3.2 Certification

Wazzup Pilipinas!

ePLDT, the industry-leading enabler of digital enterprise solutions in the Philippines, announced that its premiere VITRO Data Center in Makati City recently received the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS) Version 3.2 certification, an international accreditation given to merchants and service providers who passed the security standards set by the PCI Security Standards Council in protecting cardholder data.

PCI-DSS, the global data security standard created by a consortium of international credit card companies, applies to all entities that store, process, and/or transmit cardholder data, covering technical and operational system components included in or connected to sensitive cardholder information.

Compliance with the PCI-DSS alleviates the vulnerabilities that come with the whole card-processing ecosystem which includes point-of-sale devices, wireless hotspots, transmission of cardholder data to service providers, personal computers or servers, and systems operated by service providers and acquirers that maintain relationships with merchants that accept payment cards.

 “The booming e-commerce market is fueling credit card transactions all around the world, which, at the same time, exposes risks to cardholders, banking institutions and enterprises involved in the process. Given that today’s cyber criminals are more intelligent and more sophisticated, traditional perimeter-based cyber security protocols are not enough to protect the business,” said Nerisse Ramos, ePLDT Chief Operating Officer.

She continued, “Our new certification only proves that customers can be confident in hosting their critical applications in our data center in Makati without worrying about credit card fraud and other online threats that evolve by the day.”

VITRO Makati is the second ePLDT data center to receive the PCI-DSS version 3.2 certification. Last year, VITRO Pasig was certified for version 3.1 and was recently upgraded to 3.2. The two data centers were assessed and certified based on the international standard’s established guidelines on physical space, data storage and security profiles.

The largest data center facility in the country to date, VITRO Makati has a maximum capacity of 3, 584 racks sitting on a nearly two-hectare property. It is the first data center to be awarded with the ANSI/TIA-942 Rated 3 Design Certificate, which emphasizes the redundancy design of the data centers to ensure the highest availability during unplanned maintenance and infrastructure expansion.

Furthermore, VITRO Makati is recognized by NTT Communications as Nexcenter-compliant for adopting its data center design practices and management experience. This allows clients to experience the same international standards applied on all 140 Nexcenter facilities in 84 cities of 19 countries.

VITRO Makati is operated and maintained by professionals who are guided by ISO standards such as Quality Management System (ISO 9001:2008), Business Continuity Management System (ISO 22301:2013), Information Security Management System (27001:2013), IT Services Management System (20000-1:2011), and Environmental Management System (14001:2004).

“VITRO Makati is strongly positioned to be the first financial data center in the country given its certifications, design standards, proximity to the business district and robust infrastructure,” said Jovy Hernandez, Senior Vice President and Head of PLDT Enterprise. “With the PCI-DSS certification in place, we can enable a stronger and more secure foundation for the digital enterprise in ensuring their continuous success now and in the future.”

To learn more about ePLDT and its VITRO network of data centers, please visit the website at www.epldt.com.

Power Mac Center Collaborates With Brillante Mendoza, Shaira Luna to Mentor Young Creative

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Power Mac Center has always been all-out in supporting technology-assisted creative expression. Just recently, the premier Apple partner gathered young creatives, mostly photographers and videographers, in an event called Lounge to help them build connections in the industry, get to interact and learn first-hand from professionals like Director Brillante Mendoza and Shaira Luna, and discover powerful devices to boost their craft.

In partnership with LaCie, a French brand of digital storage solutions, Power Mac Center was able to get internationally acclaimed Director Brillante Mendoza to talk about his experience in the film industry and give the young creatives tips in filmmaking.

“I use several cameras on the set. I use three to four cameras on the set. 4K lahat so mabibigat yung mga files so on the set, we make sure na right after the shoot or even during the shoot actually, kailangan tina-transfer and LaCie is really very useful in that aspect,” Mendoza told his audience.

An independent filmmaker through and through, Mendoza enjoys the full creative freedom to tell his story the way he wants to. His biggest challenge though, was sourcing for funds. So in order to secure his hard work, which is the film itself, Mendoza makes sure to invest in equipment that are reliable and provide him with complete peace of mind.

Meanwhile, for her part, professional fashion and advertising photographer Shaira Luna talked about what drives her to follow her passion in photography and how LaCie complements her on-the-go lifestyle and keeps her file transfer speedy and protected.

“I’m very thankful that I have LaCie to back me up. I just have so many pictures if only you know. I’ve started organizing my Instagram into color themes because I just have that many photos,” Luna said.
Luna loves being a photographer because it allows her to travel and meet a lot of people, especially creative minds she gets to work with in the process.

“Power Mac Center shares LaCie’s commitment to support the creative community. More than anything, we provide solutions to the demands of the industry from creatives of today,” said Power Mac Center Marketing Director Joey Alvarez.

An evening of fun, learning, and discovery, the Lounge event was meant to bring creatives together and “lounge” with industry movers to share/brew ideas. LaCie will continue to hold such pocket events for its new products this 2018.

LaCie is Seagate’s premium brand of world-class storage solutions designed for Mac users, photographers, videographers, audio professionals, and other power users. Its products are available in Power Mac Center stores nationwide. For more information as well as updates on future events, follow @powermaccenter on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or YouTube.

GameCon 2018 Underscores New Gen Gaming

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Close to 4,000 gaming enthusiasts attended the recently concluded GameCon, which was supported by PLDT and wireless unit Smart Communications.

The attendance increased by about 30 percent from last year’s event, said GameCon project head Elaine Cedillo, showing the growing industry of gaming in the Philippines.

Now on its second year, GameCon featured exhibitions and competitions on various kinds of gaming—from mobile and PC to video, traditional, tabletop, eSports, virtual reality, robotics, and cosplay, among other activities—with the theme “New Generation Gaming.”

PLDT Home Fibr and Smart Developer Network (Smart DevNet) supported the two-day event by leading the game developers’ workshop and providing strong connectivity. Smart DevNet chief evangelist and partnerships head Paul Pajo, and junior product manager PJ de la Cerna were also present to judge Robo Rumble, a robot fighting competition designed to test the participants’ skills in electronics, programming, design, and other areas.

Events like GameCon prove the local gaming industry has grown bigger over the years, according to game artist Philip Adrian Gungab. A game art teacher at De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde, Gungab is also a cofounder of Re:Cast Games, a new studio composed of fellow instructors, programmers, and artists interested in game development for web and mobile devices.

“Game development is booming in the Philippines. The fact that we have an event like this means the game industry in the Philippines is big. A lot of people are into games now, either as a developer or an artist,” said Gungab, who taught game art at GameCon’s developers’ workshop.

Gungab also said mobile games are widespread because they’re accessible and typically free of charge. With almost everyone using a smartphone now, the popularity of mobile games has become a boon to game developers, he noted.

“The mobile game industry, for me, is a big thing for game developers. When we release a mobile game, for example, on App Store or Google Play Store, it’s not restricted to users in the Philippines alone; the game may be downloaded in other countries. We now have a platform to share our passion projects with everyone,” he said.

De la Cerna, meanwhile, said fans of mobile games Arena of Valor, Clash of Clans, Clash Royale, Everwing, and Mobile Legends may continue leveling up with Smart GameTime data offers. GameTime 50 provides 7 days of gaming, with 300MB per day for the said games, plus 50 battle tickets for Mobile Legends, for only P50 by texting GAME50 to 9999. GameTime 100, he added, offers 30 days at 300MB per day, plus 100 battle tickets, for P100 by texting GAME100.

Pajo said that to experience faster speeds, mobile gamers should use Smart’s super-charged LTE network. He said Smart users should text SIMCHECK to 5832 to check if their SIM is LTE-enabled, and upgrade to LTE for free while retaining their numbers at any Smart Store.

Smart DevNet is Smart’s developer community program targeted at desktop and mobile developers. It promotes general awareness of mobile apps development and technopreneurship while striving to foster a vibrant developer community in the Philippines by organizing and sponsoring tech events and meetups.

Web Vulnerabilities in 2017 Up By 212 Percent

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Leading local DDoS Mitigation Services provider IPC is urging companies to beef up their web security as the numbers of web application vulnerabilities are rapidly increasing, as reported in a study by its global partner Imperva Incapsula that shows an overview of web application vulnerabilities in 2017.

​​

According to the study¹, 2017 saw a whopping 212 percent increase in new vulnerabilities with 14,082 recorded, as compared to 2016’s 6,615. Imperva also states that more than half of these vulnerabilities have a public exploit available to hackers, and that more than a third (36 percent) don’t have an available solution such as a software upgrade workaround or software patch.

Niño Valmonte, IPC’s Director for Marketing & Digital Innovation, explains that money is the main motivator in the rapid increase of web vulnerabilities. “Websites are common targets because they can generate a substantial amount of money for cybercriminals. For instance, an e-commerce website would normally store personal information. In the wrong hands, we already know the kind of risk we can get exposed to. Also, criminals can hold websites up for ransom from company owners.”

Ransomware, the method of putting up a website for ransom that Valmonte referred to, is a global phenomenon that is predicted to exceed $11.5 billion annually by 2019². The most common form of payment sought from victims in order to get their websites back is the popular cryptocurrency Bitcoin.

¹https://www.incapsula.com/blog/the-state-of-web-application-vulnerabilities-in-2017.html

²https://cybersecurityventures.com/ransomware-damage-report-2017-part-2/

Content of websites in peril

Another alarming statistic that the study revealed is the increasing number of vulnerabilities in Content Management Systems (CMS), a tool used to create and manage content posted on a website. The study revealed that WordPress, one of the most commonly used CMS today, posted a 400% increase in new vulnerabilities since 2016, with 75% coming from third-party vendor plugins.

IPC urges businesses to be wary of this as when successfully infiltrated, cybercriminals can use the CMS to edit, remove, and even post content on a website. The damage may range from altering text to even changing the visual appearance of the entire website, a tactic commonly known as defacement. Criminals can also extract sensitive information stored inside a website through the CMS.

“These findings should serve as a wake-up call for organizations to put up stronger web security protocols. CMS infiltration should not be taken lightly because this is only the tip of the iceberg. CMS attacks also pose risks to personal and confidential data,” Valmonte said.

To protect one’s website, IPC recommends deploying security measures such as applying a Web Application Firewall (WAF) that can monitor and control incoming web traffic.

As one of the leading DDoS Mitigation service providers, IPC provides subscription-based WAF service through IPC InCAST (In-Country Attack Scrubbing Tactics) services, a cloud-based Web Application Firewall proxy solution that is supported by the country’s first and only DDoS Mitigation Service to feature local data scrubbing.

“By closely monitoring network traffic, WAF can detect and block any malicious data, thereby stopping an attack from happening in the first place,” explained Valmonte.

For more information about Web Application Firewall, visit ipc.ph/en/waf/

Karylle and Yael Yuzon Enjoy the Morning Rush with belVita Breakfast Biscuits

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Enjoy a delicious breakfast every morning even while on-the-go as the well-loved breakfast biscuit that has helped energize consumers all over the world finally makes its debut in the Philippines.

BelVita is the first-ever breakfast biscuit from Mondelez Philippines which aims to address consumers’ growing needs for convenient and delicious well-being snacks.


Expanding in the well-being space

“We live in a fast-paced world where people have increasing awareness of their well-being needs but are sometimes challenged by the lack of time to prepare and eat a balanced breakfast. Their preferences are evolving and they want snacks that are not only delicious but offer convenience and good nutrition. We see belVita entering the breakfast category by creating this new biscuit occasion. We envision belVita to energize this well-being space,” said Anna Sapitan, Mondelez Philippines’ Marketing Manager for the Biscuits Category.

Just like any young Filipino couple, Karylle and Yael live a hectic and active lifestyle. With their life goals, they know that breakfast is very important. It’s the time they get their energy for a long list of activities ahead. “Breakfast is sometimes the only meal we get to enjoy together with our many commitments.

This is why belVita breakfast biscuit is ideal for the lifestyle we have. We try to eat a balanced breakfast every morning. So we pair belVita with a piece of fruit and a glass of milk and we know we have everything we need to jumpstart our day,” Karylle shared.

As for the taste, Yael likes how tasty and easy it is for him to have his breakfast. “I like belVita not only because it is convenient to eat but also because it’s really yummy. It’s easy to reach for and it fills me up just right.

When I want a delicious, healthy and convenient breakfast, it’s the perfect go-to,” Yael mused. With their jampacked days, Karylle and Yael turn to belVita as their breakfast staple, making them the perfect couple to introduce and endorse the brand to the Philippine market.

Specially created for breakfast
Several studies confirm that this accelerated shift to convenient well-being products in the snack industry is well-founded.

Reference from the Philippines’ adult energy and nutrient intakes study published in the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB) Journal in 2013 identified 1 out of 5 adults in Philippines tend to skip breakfast. 

It is also noted in the Food and Nutrition Research Institute 2013 Dietary Survey that only a third or 31.5% of households in urban areas are able to meet their energy requirements for the day.

And in the National Capital Region, 1 in 10 or 13% of households consume their breakfast outside their homes. “Belvita is specially designed for breakfast,” said Princess Landicho, belVita Brand Manager.

“Just pair it with a serving of dairy products and fruit for a balanced breakfast to help kickstart your morning with energy. It is also a great on-the-run snack because of its convenient packaging.”

“BelVita breakfast biscuits are made with whole grain cereals, which include whole wheat and oat, and are fortified with vitamins and minerals such s Vitamin A, B1, B2, B3, D, calcium, iron and zinc.

And thanks to more than 15 years of research, belVita is also baked using a special gentle baking process, which helps to preserve the nutritional quality of our cereal ingredients,” Landicho added.

First launched in 2011 in the United Kingdom as a breakfast biscuit, this global breakfast icon is sold in more than 50 countries. Locally, belVita is available in two flavors: Milk and Cereal, and Honey and Chocolate.

BelVita is also purposely packaged to help consumers exercise portion control. It is available in a 4-pack box with an SRP of P30.50 and the single 20g pack worth P8.25 that contains two delicious and filling biscuits. Delicious and nutritious, each piece can be part of a convenient breakfast to give energy for a packed day ahead.


To know more, like and follow belVita Philippines on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/belVita)
and at Instagram (@belvitaPH).

DAO on Certification Focuses on Safety, Ease of Doing Business

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Department of Trade and Industry’s Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS)
ensures the public that the Department Administrative Orders (DAO) on the issuance of the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) on products under the mandatory certification of the BPS facilitates the ease in doing business without compromising consumer safety.

In a court decision on 10 November 2017, the Makati Regional Trial court declares
DAO 05:2008 or The New Rules and Regulations Concerning the Issuance of Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) under the Product Certification Scheme of the BPS and, DAO 15-01 or the Measure to Facilitate the Issuance of the Import Commodity
Clearance ultra vires or has no force of effect.

The DAO 05:2008 prescribes the rules and regulations on the issuance of the ICC to
import shipments covered the BPS product certification scheme while DAO 15-01
facilitates faster processing of the Import Commodity Clearance applications.

BPS Director-in-Charge Engr. James E. Empeño explains, “The DTI-BPS maintains a status quo on implementing its product certification scheme on imported products to ensure that only safe and quality steel products are sold and distributed in the
Philippine market. The Bureau emphasizes that imported steel products are still
subjected to the requirements of the relevant standards and must pass the various mechanical, chemical and physical tests.”

DTI-Consumer Protection Group (DTI-CPG) Assistant Secretary Atty. Ernesto V. Perez
clarifies, “The court’s ruling is not yet final and executory as the department has filed a motion for reconsideration to the Makati Regional Trial Court. Therefore, manufacturers and importers are still advised to follow the existing department administrative orders
on the issuance of the import commodity clearance.”

“The department has been transparent with the implementation of its certification
system to create a balance between the industries and the safety of our consumers,” DTI-CPG Undersecretary Atty. Ruth B. Castelo emphasized.

For more information on DAO 05:2008: 2017 and DAO 15-01:2015, call BPS at (02)
751.4720/ 751.4708., or send an email to bps@dti.gov.ph. Copies of the said DAOs are
available at www.bps.gov.ph.

Going On A Trip? Use These Tips For Easy Travel

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Consider flying on holidays if you are looking for a cheaper fare. Many people do not want to deal with the hassle of being in an airport on a holiday so flights are usually much cheaper. If you plan an early morning flight, you will not miss any of the holiday festivities.

Do research before you start traveling. Ask your friends or neighbors if they’ve traveled lately and if there are any interesting things to do in that area. Also, when you arrive at your destination, ask the locals about the great things in their city.

Plan your deals online. Travel agencies are somewhat a thing of the past, with the majority of travel companies going online to help book their flights and stays. Online deals can sometimes even be better than what travel agencies offer since travel agencies aren’t let into a portion of the cut. They are also more accessible and open to more users due to the nature of the internet.

In case you should lose something, make copies of your passport, check book and credit card numbers. Leave a copy of everything with someone you trust at home and hide a copy somewhere in your hotel room. You should not carry everything in the same bag or on one person.

If you are squished for space while traveling by air, take advantage of every inch. Take the magazines out of the pocket in front of you and move them instead to the overhead bin. Depending on the size of the magazines, you could have bought yourself a couple of extra inches.

If your suitcase does not have a divider, you may want to consider putting a cardboard box in it. This way, you can lay your clothes out flat, avoiding wrinkles. Having a divider also makes it easier for you to find what you are looking for and for customs to see your belongings.

All travelers would be wise to dress comfortably when they travel. Often times you will be seated for multiple hours so make sure that you are dressed comfortably enough throughout the trip. Loose fitting clothing with comfortable shoes are usually what is recommended. Just make sure you can relax in whatever you decide to wear.

When selecting a location to travel to, there is no better source of information than a fellow traveler. Other travelers with similar needs and plans, can tell you what destinations are must-sees and what areas you should try to avoid. No guidebook can replace the first-hand experience of another person or family.

If you’re planning on travelling internationally any time soon, make sure you’re prepared for customs inspections and the forms you’ll have to fill out. Have your social security number memorized and keep your passport handy at all times.

Find out before you leave your destination what you aren’t allowed to bring home, as your gifts can easily be confiscated.
Always carry a small blanket and pillow when you travel. Whether you’ll be traveling by car, plane, bus, or train, a blanket and pillow can make the trip more comfortable. Airlines will sometimes provide them, but often run out. If you carry your own you will also know that it is clean and sanitary.

If you plan on traveling with young children, make sure to stop often on the way there and back. Explain them in details where you are going, and how long it will take to go there. Prepare some activities to keep them busy during the trip, such as coloring books.

If you are looking for an adventure, travel is the way to do it. There are ways to travel for relatively cheap, that can end up making your experience so much better and less expensive over time. You simply need to be prepared for your adventure and then you can plan each destination more in-depth, as you go.

Taking a train can be an attractive mode of travel for many reasons. For one it does not require effort from the individual beyond sitting in their seat. A person is free to do whatever they want to do while they are en route. There are also many other reasons why traveling by train is enjoyable.

As stated at the beginning of this article, it is hard for pet owners to leave their animals behind while they travel. Many hotels and airlines are very accommodating when it comes to traveling with your pet. Hopefully, this article has given you some great tips for making the most of your pet-friendly travel plans.

Author Bio:
Katherine Reed is a graphic designer, retouch expert and blogger on Photza.com. She usually creates visual concepts by hand or by using computer software, so understand how to make the pics perfect. Her team on Photza.com have experienced retouch artists with great technical skills working full-time at their office.

DISRUPTIVE HR: Disintegrating the Classic, Forming the Future

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Get ready to be astonished as the class of HRDM 4-6D from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Sta. Mesa, Manila upholds their most awaited seminar this 2018 entitled: DISRUPTIVE HR: Disintegrating the Classic, Forming the Future with the theme “The Emergence of Adaptive HR Practices in the Ages of Trends.” This will take place on March 3, 2018, 1:00 pm at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines Sta. Mesa, Manila, Bulwagang Balagtas, NALLRC.

Retro was chosen as the theme of this event because it clearly fits the purpose of the event. This event wants to tackle the differences of the HR practices from the past and how it was innovated and develooped throughout the years in order to cope up with the trends on the HR world.

This event aims to help future HR to develop their skills and to be professionally prepared as they enter the corporate world. This event also aims to equip the right amount of knowledge and experience to every HR students that they can apply in order to become a competitive HR practitioner and in order for them to cope up with the fast changing business dealing globally.

This event is open for all Human Resource Students. Pre-registration is currently conducted to identify the final head count of the expected participants.  On the event day, a limited number of walk-ins will be entertained.

There will be four speakers who will cover up the objectives of this event. Mr. Mryon Sta. Ana will be the Motivational Speaker, Ms. Grace Bondad and Mr. David Lim will share their ideas as our Keynote speakers, and Mr. Ernesto Amao will further discuss the objectives of the event as our Resource Speaker.

This event will not be possible without the help of our corporate partners. The event is co-presented by: Elebram Systems, Tag Media & Public Relations, Trampoline Park-Zero Gravity Zone, and Zest-O Corporation Philippines. We also have ARIVA Academy Philippines, Inc., and Speed Magazine as the event’s Major Sponsors. We also have Blogapalooza as our Minor Sponsor.

We also have our media partners: ASTIG.PH, InqPOP, Wazzup Pilipinas, and WheninManila.com. Then there is RED images as our official studio partner. We also would like to thank Frappe La Rue Philippines, Jobs180.com, and Pound For Pound Fitness Sta. Mesa.

Are Media Practitioners Possesed with the Culture of Entitlement?

Wazzup Pilipinas!

On Malacañang's ban on Rappler's Pia Ranada Robles from covering the palace, the National Press Club of the Philippines said:

"Journalists, like public officials they often criticize, should not be onion-skinned nor be possessed with the culture of entitlement. we sometimes deserve the treatment we get by the way we comport our selves. Tit for tat."

Rappler’s Pia Ranada says she was barred from entering Malacañang’s New Executive Bldg., where Palace press briefings are usually held.

Usec. Jhopee Avancena of Malacanang Internal House Affairs Office says Pia Ranada and Maria Ressa are both banned in Malacanang.

Is there a reason why? I guess it should not be a surprise for Rappler correspondents from all the negative news they published about the Duterte administration supposedly angled in focusing mostly the negative points, and finding fault in everything when the intention is for the benefit of the majority.

Remember their news about a Quezon City ordinance requiring foreign business establishments with incomprehensible signages to have an interpretation in Tagalog or English so the signages would be understood by the common peeps? Their headline focused on the penalty if the ordinance is violated instead of the benefits it would give the masses.

Is the culture of entitlement well and alive within the media? Is it true that they feel as if they have the privilege to every single office or press con they see?

As much as I love to attend all the press cons and evebnts out there, organizers have the prerogative to choose who they want to invite mainly because they prefer to get their stories out the best "version" possible. PRs and event organizers tend to skip those media outfits that are too critical.

Though many would claim only managing their resources to cope with allocated budget restraints since media invitations usually have some food and complimentary gifts provisions. Those venues, buffet fir lunch or dinner, and little tokens of appreciation given to media, do add cost to the organizers, which includes the government agencies.

But then again, government press cons need not be lavish in feeding or pampering the media, especially those pretty perks that somehow affect the outlook of media towards the topic they will be writing. Media tend to prefer attending those press cons where they get better treatment. Think of it like getting a negative attitude if you keep someone waiting for hours, then going hungry throughout the event. You are likely to get walk-outs or no published news at all.

But for certain top-of-the-line news that would surely gain a huge audience, the mainstream media outfits, and also those that are influential or have contacts among the organizers, gets priority invitations.

For bloggers, those who get a lot of event invitations are not necessarily the top influencers. Most of the time they get recommended by fellow bloggers or are in a good relationship with the PRs or event organizers. 

Being popular doesn't mean you're the most viewed or Liked blogger. It could just mean they prefer you than pesky bloggers who give them a hard time.

Of course, there are many other situations and reasons prompting the selections or limitations. Though I find it ideal to give all media outfits the privilege to attend every event, or enter all government agencies to conduct interviews, the reality is sadly the reverse. You will be rarely shortlisted if you're not in good terms with the media coordinators.

Photo credit: Sun Star

MADWORLD: Unmasking the Big Narrative

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The metamorphosis of a butterfly tells the same tale of what it is like waking up from a dream. Every time a butterfly unfolds its wings, the universe yields to the artists who spoke the hearts of the people and whose works will endure the test of time.

The Philippine Junior Marketing Association, together with one of the leading integrated marketing communication agencies in the country, Havas Ortega, proudly presents;

MADWORLD: Unmasking the Big Narrative, happening on 4th of March, from 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay City!

Learn from the most prominent business personalities as they unfold the truths behind the success of the stories they sell.

Should you have inquiries, please contact Harry Osite at (0906) 634 6943 or email him atpjma.heosite@gmail.com

How Hyperledger is Changing the Face of Blockchain

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Hype ledger is not all that new, but it is the “new kid on the block” when it comes to blockchain and app technology. Some have been sitting on the sidelines waiting to see if it’s going to be worth investing in or not.

The good news for the Hyperledger Fabric implementation of blockchain is late last year, hyperledger released a much-improved version which is more stable. The move to the v1.0 put it at the pinnacle of blockchain platforms when it comes to developing business apps.


Significance of Hyperledger Fabric

Hyperledger Fabric is similar to Ethereum in that it is a second generation blockchain operation.

However, one of the advantages is its root in Linux. This allows it to be an umbrella project, a large-scale open source project that on a business level, can provide a ledger framework which can be used to build and run industry-specific applications, hardware systems and platforms that support business transactions. It provides a modular framework for businesses who desire to leverage the blockchain advantage. But it provides a privacy to transactions that is not available on other platforms.

Every industry has specific needs and unique uses for app technology. This can be a stretch for the blockchain developer. However, hyperledger, which is based on code, makes it possible for companies to leverage blockchain technology without revealing any valuable data to competitors or the public.


Difference in Access to Data

The difference in Hyperledger Fabric and blockchain technology is the way data is accessed.

Users essentially create a private permissioned blockchain. Platforms like Bitcoin and Ethereum allow everyone access to information and transaction data verification and validation.

Hyperledger doesn’t make this information available, all that is accessible are the nodes the issuing authority has granted rights to.

In permission-less blockchain, transactions are noticed by each node. The specifics are not openly known however, the transaction between two parties that has transpired is openly visible to others who were not a party to the transaction.

Hyperledger Fabric’s integration into app technology removes that element by implementing sub-channels that are used for transactions between specific network partners.

Any other partners on the network cannot see that a transaction ever occurred. This allows two or more parties to initiate a transaction privately with no access to third parties.

This allows Hyperledger to tailor blockchain technology to meet specific needs of an entity. Think of it more like the Intranet than the Internet in that only those actually involved in the transaction, who have access to the application can participate or view what transpires. And they have to have permission to have any access at all.


Permissioned Frameworks

The idea behind hyperledger was to develop reasonably sized ledgers that could only be viewed by those who had permissioned access. Permissioned vs permissionless networks parallel a
spectrum rather than being a binary idea. The problem is the cost of joining a node to a network.

This is true no matter what blockchain platform is being used. The goal for now is to reduce the cost of joining networked ledgers. Hyperledger’s goals are to create new ways to solve problems and build connections that are private between permissioned users.

Stef Aranas - Trust Music Video Launch

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Let go a little. Relax. You might feel just a little tingle, nothing to worry about. Just trust me. 

But then again...should you?

Stef Aranas - Trust Music Video Launch
March 1, Thursday 8PM
Mow's Matalino
P200 with a free drink

With performances by
Gny
riddo & Lia
The Clamshell Boxes
Alyson
Technicalia
Celina Pacana & Joseph Gregory
Jigo Viriña


Media Partners:

Maroon FM
PULP Magazine
DZUP
Wazzup Pilipinas
Rakista Radio
UST Tiger Radio
Green Giant FM
TEAM Mag

TRUST (prod. by Caloy Perez)
Directed by Martin Cabrera of ANCíNE MANILA

Posters by Marie Aguinaldo and Quin Astilla

Bb. Pilipinas 2018 Press Presentation: Scorching Hot at Novotel Araneta Center

Binibining Wazzup Pilipinas!

Here are just some of the 40 candidates of Binibining Pilipinas 2018 that are all hopeful to bring home any of the crowns, if not the top crown thst entitles her to compete for the Miss Universe.

We know it's hard to choose among these vibrant ladies who to put on our site as a preview, and so we picked a few in random to make it fair.

We'd love to upload all 40 but they are just too much for you to handle. Hot!

As we've said, we picked with our eyes closed! So don't bash us please if we missed out on your favorite. We'll post them on our Facebook fan page soon enough.

http://www.Facebook.com/wazzuppilipinas

Make Heads Turn With Auto-Gard!

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Put your best foot forward—on the pedal. Make a lasting impression with your car without spending the big bucks! Your car is like your home. Whether it’s brand new or older, you’ll always want to make sure it’s well taken care of: working, looking, and smelling at its very best! Take a ride into the bustling Metro Manila streets and beyond with your great-looking car cleaned, protected, and brilliantly finished with Auto-Gard premium car care products.

Auto-Gard is your perfect partner when it comes to your car, and your family will love you more for it! Show off its sleek, shiny surface—from bumper to rear—that’s guaranteed to make heads turn any time of the day, and throughout the night.

The premium, water-repellent Auto-Gard Protector Wax (SRP: PHP219.75) not only gives your car a deep shine, but also protects the paintwork from harsh UV rays and moisture. The bonus is it doesn’t have a strong odor, and in fact has a gentle smell, which makes it easy to wash off your hands.

Polish, protect, and shine your car further to add that long-lasting, extra protection for your car’s finish with the Auto-Gard Carnauba Wax (SRP: PHP169.75 for 250ml; PHP289.75 for 500ml), and apply it using the highly absorbent (up to 7x its weight) Auto-Gard Microfiber Suede Polishing Cloth (SRP: PHP179.75), the best companion for buffing all types of wax fast and easy, and removes dirt, dust, oil, and grease without leaving a dent, thanks to its high-quality microfiber technology. The combination ensures top-notch surface protection and maintenance for your car, making it look like it just rolled out from a showroom.

Don’t forget to spray your car interior with the Auto-Gard Odor Eliminator, formulated with E15 Odor Eradicator that’s guaranteed to trap and completely get rid off any foul odor inside your car, and not just cover them up.

Auto-Gard products are non-toxic and made with environment-friendly formula. Make heads turn with your car and buy your complete set now. Auto-Gard also offers carpet and upholstery, all-purpose protectant, window cleaner, waterless car wash, quick detailer, tire shine and protector, and all-purpose cleaning products, which are available at Ace Hardware, Ace Builders, Ace Express branches, SM Supermarket, Handyman, True Value, Landers Superstore, Wilcon Depot, S&R, All Home, Gaisano Malls, Landmark, and Shopwise, and online at Lazada.com.ph, and shopmnl.com.

Learn more about Auto-Gard and like our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram today.

DOTr Reiterates Order against Opening, Tampering Baggage of OFWs, Tourists

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) today reminded all airport personnel to refrain or stop from opening the bags and luggage of returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade reiterated the directive that President Rodrigo Duterte himself issued in order to address reports of baggage pilferage in airports.

“Inuulit ko po, huwag buksan o pag-interesan ang mga bagahe ng ating mga OFWs pati na mga turista. Ayaw ni Pangulong Duterte ng korapsyon. Ilayo niyo ang mga sarili niyo sa aksyon o persepsyon ng korapsyon,” said Tugade.

Tugade made the remark following an incident involving a Korean couple who alleged that some of their valuables, a wrist watch and electronic cigarette, went missing at the Clark International Airport. 

In a statement, the Office of Transportation Security (OTS) belied the allegation and said the viral post on social media is “false and inaccurate.”

“After review of the airport’s CCTV footage of the event, it was revealed that two Korean nationals, a male and female, were rushing towards the escalator, while a female OTS Security Screening Officer can be seen picking an item that appeared to be left behind at the X-ray conveyor belt. The latter subsequently held the item in the air in an apparent attempt to call the attention of its owner. The male Korean passenger eventually claimed the item from the screening officer,” the statement read. 

The security footage, provided by Clark International Airport Corp., further showed that there was no indication of misconduct, ill-intent or malice on the part of the Security Screening Officer.

OTS Administrator Arturo Evangelista also noted that the security of the riding public is the agency’s utmost concern, urging the public to refrain from making hasty conclusions about such incidents.

For the same incident, the Bureau of Customs has also denied extortion claims of the female Korean passenger.

New guidelines for baggage handling

In January, Secretary Tugade summoned airport officials, airport ground handling companies, manpower service providers, and security managers following a meeting with President Duterte.

The transportation chief bared new guidelines for baggage handlers: (1) personnel uniforms must not have pockets, (2) boots or shoes must not be loose, (3) concerned personnel are no longer allowed to bring or use cellphones while on duty, and (4) are not likewise allowed to wear jewelry.