Energy Family Ready for Halalan 2019

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Department of Energy (DOE) today led members of the energy family in assuring the public of the country’s energy security for Monday’s mid-term elections as the DOE Command Center commenced its operations earlier at 8:00 AM.

“Since February this year, the DOE convened the Energy Task Force Election for uninterrupted and reliable power supply during elections. We are prepared and while the DOE Command Center began its watch today, we will be conducting 24/7 monitoring operations starting tomorrow (11 May) to help ensure honest and orderly elections” Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi said.

Headed by the DOE, the Energy Task Force Election (ETFE) has eight members, namely the National Electrification Administration (NEA), National Power Corporation (NPC), National Transmission Corporation (TRANSCO), Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC), Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (PSALM), Philippine Electricity Market Corporation (PEMC), National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), and the Manila Electric Company (Meralco). The task force is also closely working with the national security group comprised of the National Security Council, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, and the Philippine Coast Guard.

The DOE conducted a total of four meetings for the ETFE since its activation to discuss member-agencies’ duties and responsibilities, as well as coordination and contingency plans for critical energy facilities.



ALL IN FOR D-DAY

During this afternoon’s press briefing at the DOE Media Center, NEA, NGCP, Meralco, and the Philippine Electric Plant Owners Association (PEPOA) presented their respective strategies to help secure energy services for Halalan 2019. Central to this is the conduct of 24/7 power situation monitoring activities to commence on 11 May 2019 until the DOE announces the termination of the ETFE.

NEA has previously advised electric cooperatives to undertake the appropriate preventive and corrective maintenance of the critical network and non-network assets from 1 March to 30 April 2019; avoid scheduled power interruptions, except for emergency situations, from 1 May 2019 until the proclamation of winning candidates; and activate their Emergency Restoration Organizations starting 8:00AM on 11 May 2019.

On the part of the NGCP, they ensured that there were to be no planned maintenance of power plants one week before and one week after elections. They have likewise taken measures to ensure the availability of transmission facilities, power voltage quality, and the readiness of the necessary restoration teams and equipment in the event of power disturbances.

Meanwhile, Meralco will be on “general alert” on the eve of the elections to facilitate the pre-positioning of response teams and other equipment. In addition, they have provided all polling precincts with information materials on relevant power tips (e.g. prohibiting “octopus connections” and overloading by not bringing and using unnecessary appliances inside polling centers).

Aboitiz Power, which handles power distribution in key areas such as Cebu, Davao, and Subic, as well as the PEPOA will likewise commence deployment activities on the eve of Election Day.

The DOE will continue to provide the public with regular updates on crucial energy situation developments for Halalan 2019.

Jodi Sta. Maria spends a MOMentous Mother’s Day at the Araneta Center

Wazzup Pilipinas! Catch actress Jodi Sta. Maria as she celebrates an unforgettable mom’s day at “MOMentous: A Memorable Mother’s Day at the Araneta Center,” on May 12, 2019 at the Gateway Mall activity area. Jodi will perform a special number and join a cooking demo facilitated by Professional Academy for Culinary Education. MOMentous aims to educate mothers, especially solo moms like Jodi, who want to augment their income by starting their own food business.Jodi, who is well known for her role as Maya in the hit TV series “Be Careful with My Heart,” currently stars as Fina, a mother searching for her abducted child, in the teleserye “Sino ang may sala?” She is the loving mother of 13-year-old Thirdy in real life. As a celebration of all mothers, Jodi’s participation in the mall’s tribute to Mother’s Day is expected to be an inspiration, especially since this is the first time the Center is focusing on empowering single moms. Part of the activities for this weekend is a talk on “The Solo Parent Act of 2000.” Carina Javier, president of Federation of Solo Parents in Luzvimin Inc. - United Solo Parents of the Philippines (FUSPP), will discuss the rights of single parents at the Gateway Mall. In addition, participating moms will also get free skin analysis, hair styling, and foot and hand massage. “Solo Mom’s Bazaar,” which will showcase products like organic rice and coffee, will then be held at the Gateway Mall from May 12 to 18 as part of Araneta Center’s CSR activity in partnership with FUSPP. “MOMentous: A Memorable Mother’s Day at the Araneta Center” is made possible by Professional Academy for Culinary Education, Jergens Skincare, Hello Gorgeous!, Federation of Solo Parents Luzvimin Inc., Nails.Glow, Diana Stalder, T&J Salon, The Istana, Ladouce, Silka, Marks & Spencer, Rustan's, The Face Shop, Slimmers World, Sylpauljoyce, Dermcare, and Caronia. For more info and updates, visit Araneta Center’s website and follow it on its social media pages: @AranetaCenter on Facebook and Twitter and @TheAranetaCenter on Instagram.

UP Babaylan brings you Things Left Unspoken 2019: ‘Be Free, Be Queer’

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Celebrate queer art and music in a night of drinking this May 17 at Things Left Unspoken 2019: Be Free, Be Queer, a benefit concert and art gallery for LGBTQ+ artists at The Chamber Gastro Tavern, Maginhawa, Quezon City, in observance of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOTB).

As a platform for queer visibility, it will be a night for LGBTQ+ artists to freely express themselves and present their art without prejudice and discrimination.

Witness electrifying performances by Huling El Bimbo star Lance Reblando, drag queens Mrs Tan, Aries Night, Lili Adams, Matimyas and Luka, musician Angelito, and a special performance from Jan Parangat.

LGBTQ+ artists are invited to exhibit and even sell their artworks. Interested LGBTQ+ artists and arts organizations may contact Jun at (0917) 526 8632.

LGBTQ+ businesses will also be highlighted as safe spaces for the community and promoted to a bigger audience.

Things Left Unspoken is an annual initiative of the University of the Philippines Babaylan as part of the joint efforts of advocacy groups worldwide every IDAHOTB to combat cissexism, heterosexism and other forms of hate.

For P150 (pre-selling) or P200 (door price), you will have one free drink and an unforgettable night of fun, freedom and love. The first five buyers who buy 7 tickets each will get FREE “Love Wins” rainbow shots. You’ll also  give back to the community as most of the proceeds will be donated to the LGBTQ+ artists.

Buy tickets here (bit.ly/thingsleftunspokentickets) or from their official ticket selling partners, UP ALYANSA, Bulacan State University Bahaghari, Youth for Mental Health Coalition, UP Círculo Hispánico, Sheroes UPD, UP Diliman University Student Council, KALikha UPD and BUKLOD CSSP. For other inquiries, please contact Kim (0917 924 4989) or send a message to their official Facebook page (www.facebook.com/upbabaylan). RSVP here (https://www.facebook.com/events/376937912909230/).

Things Left Unspoken 2019: Be Free, Be Queer is presented to you by UP Babaylan and co-presented by the UP Center for Women’s and Gender Studies, in partnership with ProudCampaign.PH, UP Alyansa, Ganda Filipinas, Benilde Hive and #MentalHealthPH, with our major media partners InqPOP!, Manila Bulletin, Cinema Bravo and Cinema One Originals. It is also brought to you by Bulacan State University Bahaghari, Transman Pilipinas, UST Hiraya, and Youth for Mental Health Coalition. Special thanks to Orange Segment,  UP Grail - Graphics Art in Literature, BUKLOD CSSP, UP Círculo Hispánico, Sheroes UPD, KALikha UPD, UP Diliman University Student Council and to our minor media partners DZUP 1602, UP Radio Circle, Astig.PH, TechKuya and Wazzup Pilipinas.

UP Babaylan is the premier and longest-existing duly recognized university-based student LGBTQ+ organization in the Philippines and in Asia.

Beyond the Metro: Property Sector of Several Progressive Provincial Cities on an Upswing

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Thanks to a booming economy, the real estate sector of several progressive cities outside of the metro are on a roll, growing remarkably well over the last few years and expected to continue soaring to new heights in the next decade or so.

More and more property developers are answering the growing demand for residential and commercial properties in Cebu, Cavite, Davao, Iloilo, Bacolod, and Pampanga as their property landscapes evolve and are expected to be at the forefront of a property development boom in the country.

A pronounced surge in demand and supply

The growing interest from local and foreign investors, as bolstered by the national government’s robust infrastructure projects in these provincial cities, attracted a surge in interest among property buyers from here and abroad.

From 2017 to 2018, Pampanga registered a whopping 873-percent increase in leads on the Lamudi platform. During the same time frame, Cavite witnessed a 298-percent increase in leads, Davao raked in 69 percent, while Cebu and Iloilo also increased by 274 and 214 percent, respectively. Page views among properties in Bacolod likewise spiked by 38 percent.

These numbers go to show that these cities are currently enjoying a shining moment in their real estate sector. In conjunction with this impressive upward trend in demand, the property supply in these cities followed suit.

Based on Lamudi listings from 2017 to 2018, Davao enjoyed a 102-percent increase in listings while Pampanga saw a 202-percent spike. Likewise, Cavite’s listings spiked by 188 percent. Cebu-based listings increased by 27 percent while Iloilo grew by 29 percent. Bacolod, however, had more property searches than the available supply during the time period, where apartment and land searches were seven (7) percent and 12 percent higher than the supply, respectively. This could mean that there is a well of opportunity for property developers in the city to answer to the growing demand that is yet to be addressed.


Average prices and a notable increase in page visits

Page visits, which likewise signify interest among property buyers, in these provincial cities also increased. From 2017 to 2018, Pampanga, Cebu, and Bacolod grew by 65 percent, 23 percent, and 38 percent respectively.

Iloilo, on the other hand, rose by 22 percent from the first quarter of 2018 to the first quarter of 2019.

Davao, despite being one of the country’s most competitive cities and investment hubs, remains affordable for prospective investors and home seekers. The average price of a condo property in the city is Php4,622,195, where the average price per square meter is tagged at Php 100,377.

Meanwhile, Cavite’s residential sector also maintains its relative affordability, with an average price of Php 6,372,632 for houses. The average price per square meter is Php 50,576.

Most Searched Areas

The most searched for areas in Davao that property seekers searched for are Buhangin and Sasa. These were followed by Barangay 19-B, Ma-A, Talomo, Barangay 20-B, Bucana, Barangay 34-D, Matina Crossing, and Matina Aplaya. 

In Cebu, the most searched for properties were those in Cebu City, followed by those in Lapu-Lapu, Mandaue, Talisay, Consolacion, Minglanilla, and Liloan.

Bacoor, Dasmariñas, Tagaytay, General Trias, and Imus were the most searched cities in Cavite.

On the other hand, the towns of Pavia, Jaro, Oton, Guimbal, and Mandurriao generated the most interest in Iloilo.

In Pampanga, Angeles, San Fernando, Mabalacat, Arayat, Mexico, Bacolor, and Magalang.

For Bacolod, the towns of Alijis, Estefania, Mansilingan, and Tangub drew in the most interest.

House and lots dominate property types

Majority of these property seekers are interested in house and lots, although there’s also a growing interest for residential condo units. The majority also prefer to buy these types of properties compared to those who want to rent them. In Iloilo, for instance, the page views for houses were close to 62 percent among property seekers, about 52 percent when it comes to sessions, and 59 percent for leads generated, based on Lamudi’s data. The same is true for Cavite, where about 64 percent of the leads came from house searches.

The preference for house and lots, as well as lands, in these provincial cities, show that the prices of these property types in Cavite, Pampanga, Cebu, Bohol, Davao, and Iloilo are still relatively more affordable compared to those in Metro Manila. Many of those who were also searching for properties in most of these progressive provincial cities are from Metro Manila, according to Lamudi data. In Pampanga, for instance, although the number one city that searched for a property there came from Angeles City, the next three came from Quezon City, Makati, and Manila, data from the property portal shows. Pampanga’s proximity to Metro Manila has attracted quite a number of property seekers from Quezon City, Makati, and Manila who are planning to relocate in the province, live a more relaxed lifestyle and escape from the urban chaos of the metropolis while also pursuing great careers with the growing number of companies opening their offices there.

With the property sector of these thriving provincial cities on the upswing, expect their economic landscape to evolve and benefit nearby towns and municipalities as well.

Mula Sa Buwan Songwriter William Elvin Returns To Indie Music Roots With New Album to be Released June 25

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Before gaining recognition with the recently produced original musical ‘Mula Sa Buwan’ and touching the hearts and minds of Philippine theater fans in Metro Manila, singer-songwriter William Elvin was selling self-produced CDs to anyone willing to listen.

In fact, his musical talent was first noticed by his theater classmates and mentors through these home-recorded albums in the late 2000s, which gave him the chance to write several Filipino musicals from 2009 to 2016.

“Social media wasn’t as big then as it is today, so we had to rely on friends and families to sell the few copies that we personally handed over to them,” recalls William. 

“Every CD sold, and every positive comment we got felt like hard-earned personal achievements.”

In 2019, coming off of his theater songwriting career in the past decade, William Elvin has returned to the do-it-yourself, free-spirited musical approach in his new album “Sacred/Profane/Mundane”.

“Sacred/ Profane/Mundane” is a collection of original compositions that highlight introspective, emotional and carefully crafted lyricism; dreamy and whimsical melodies;
as well as raw, visceral and intuitive musical arrangements – drawing from various influences such as The Beatles, Bob Dylan, David Bowie and Filipino alternative pop/rock acts.

Described as “brilliant”, “soulful, propulsively melodic” and “theatrical but authentic” by critics, William Elvin’s unique sound is exemplified by the album’s promotional singles:
the country/folk-inspired “(I Will Be) The Happy, Shiny One (For You), “The Last Lovers on Earth” as well as the haunting ballad “Ang Sabi Nila”, which are now gaining a growing number of listeners on Spotify and Apple Music.

Watch William Elvin perform live, with fellow musicians
Roger Alcantara, Rigil Borromeo, Dana Marquez and
Satur Tiamson, to launch “Sacred/Profane/Mundane”
at the Black Box Theater of the PARC Foundation
(494 Lt. Artiaga, San Juan, 1500 Metro Manila, Philippines)
on June 25, 2019. Tuesday, at 7 PM.

Tickets are available at Ticket2Me.net.

Listen to William Elvin’s music and get more updates
and information by visiting his official homepage at www.williamelvin.com.

Impressive Sales Records Show Strong Start for Suzuki Motorcycles This 2019

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Suzuki Motorcycles - a division of Suzuki Philippines Incorporated, and one of the big four Japanese motorcycle manufacturers in the country, showed a strong start in terms
of volume sales this 2019 as reflected on Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Inc.’s (MDPPA) data. This is after the brand's 1st quarter sales records indicate a growth of 36%, which is even higher than the total combined sales growth of its members (Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Yamaha) posted at 22% versus last year. This very impressive performance also demonstrates that Suzuki, which will be celebrating its 100th year in 2020, attained the biggest growth of 2% in Philippine market share, among the four Japanese manufacturers compared to 2018.

These results are brought about by the brand's sales achievement in the Underbone and Scooter categories as a by-product of the brand's integrated sales, marketing and brand communication strategies. The records affirmed Suzuki as now the most preferred Underbone maker in the Philippines, with 45% market share in the said category, due to the steadfast domination of the Underbone King - Raider R150 and the No. 1 Selling Underbone Motorcycle in the Country (Underbone Leisure Category) - Smash Stylish Colors. The data also shows the very warm welcome of the Filipinos to the Skydrive Sport, which is Suzuki's latest offer at the Scooter segment. Launched in August last year, this ride is perfect for beginners and young riders, and is instrumental for the Japanese giant's growth of 357% in the Scooter category.

Kicking off the year with this data, Suzuki Philippines Incorporated, which is also one of the top performing markets among all Suzuki motorcycles' subsidiaries in the world, is off to a bright and optimistic 2019. To know more about Suzuki and its products, please visit www.suzuki.com.ph or join the Suzuki community on Facebook
@suzukimotorcyclesphilippines or Instagram @suzukimotorsph

Y Now? Art & Healing Festival (in a Time of Critical Disruption)

Wazzup Pilipinas!

In a study conducted to analyze 500 locations worldwide, Manila ranked more stressful than war-torn Damascus in Syria! The research was based on pollution, traffic levels, public transport, percentage of green spaces, financial status of citizens including debt levels, and physical and mental health. This study shows how a great majority of people in the city are stressed out, how the rise of depression and illnesses continues to affect lives, and how spirits are broken. The rise of suicides in the young and the sense of hopelessness for a sustainable future are frightening currents in the lives of the young today. Disruption of the norm is what is being experienced in all walks of life and in fields of industries. Fears are forcing everyone to find new tools to cope with living.

To give a new perspective on these issues, Y Space at the Yuchengco Museum is opening its doors to a festival that is not like any other. Entitled Y Now? Art & Healing Festival (in a Time of Critical Disruption), the festival’s directions is to bring discussion of contemporary spirituality and consciousness right next to the expressive arts of our culture. From 24 May–23 June 2019, the month-long festival will bring together a series of thematic activities within the complementing fields of Art and Healing. All events are offered to the general public. These programs are also for companies that want to expand their employee engagement programs to offer work-life balance and ways to connect and reach their millennial employees. 

The festival includes art appreciation within the context of spirituality. There are talks that include art and spirituality seen through the visual arts, Filipino spirituality seen through cultural icon, architectural talks that teach how to create peaceful sacred spaces, and Photography talks that allow for mindfulness to happen. Included are workshops for work-life balance, understanding the Self, energies and how to manage these, and new perspectives to deal with our fast-paced life. A special mult-arts therapy workshop for children and teens approaches expression and healing in a wholistic manner. Healing circles also include alternative therapies with sound, movement, yoga and meditation; other talks focus on transpersonal topics. There are special talks to introduce Ayurveda, grief and healing, and centering ways.The festival has brought together a curated group of specialists in their unique, often misunderstood fields.

Oracle days offer one-on-one sessions of therapies that support the body’s energy balance. Either through traditional massage called hilot, acupuncture, reiki, pulse reading for health or other energy medicine modalities, the sessions are to bring balance back and let the energy flow.
Ynow? Art and Healing Festival will have a wide array of resource persons, readers and healers catered for different needs. Their special practice, expertise and gifts will add value to this Art and Healing Festival to help many that are searching for direction, deeper meaning and connections in a time of critical changes happening on our society and planet today.

Yspace is located at the ground floor of the Yuchengco Museum, RCBC Plaza, Buendia corner Ayala Avenues, Makati City.

For more details on the calendar of events, please see (https://bit.ly/2PmU2sx).
Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/yspaceattheyuchengcomuseum/) and Facebook at (https://www.facebook.com/YSpaceattheYuchengcoMuseum/)

For more information, please call (02) 8891234 or email yspace@yuchengcomuseum.org

Car Gadgets To Address What Every Driver Wants In 2019

Wazzup Pilipinas!

More people in the Philippines are getting behind the wheel and looking for improved experience when doing so. In 2017, we saw 10,410, 814 vehicles were registered in the country and 1,040,108 of those vehicles registered were cars. In addition, the car gadget market has exploded with new devices such as car GPS tracker in the past few years, all aimed at improving the driver and passenger’s driving experience. These gadgets can be a great help in making your drive hassle-free, smooth and in some cases, save you in an unexpected situation. Whether you're a local or new to the area and looking to explore the beautiful attractions in the Philippines, check out a few new must-have additions for your car.

Bluetooth Enabled Key Finder

One of the most common items that people tend to misplace is their keys. Thanks to Bluetooth enabled gadgets such as the TileMate and other Bluetooth key trackers, those moments where you just can't seem to recall the last place you left them will become a thing of the past. Key finders were around before 2019, but new versions and upgrades continue to take the market by storm. While you have the more expensive versions such as Orbit’s HButler ($29 or ph 1512), other more budget-friendly versions like Nonda’s IHere ($13 or ph 678) is just as good and comes with a rechargeable battery. Simply placed on your keychain, the device also allows you to connect the key finder to your phone as well.

Sweat Absorbent Steering Wheel Cover

The Philippines is known for its tropical and sometimes humid climate. In some months (particularly May), temperatures can reach up to 32 degrees Celsius or higher. These conditions can promote the sweaty road trip for many drivers, particularly on long drives. That is where sweat absorbent steering wheel covers come in handy. Typically, drivers use steering wheel covers for added grip or design. New gadgets such as the A-Lighting Coarse Flax Cloth Automotive Steering Wheel Cover can keep your hands dry and helps to prevent slips. This is a great little hack to help your steering, and in turn, improve your control when driving your car.

Solar Powered Tire Pressure System

Any driver will testify that it always pays to be prepared for emergencies when driving. This includes the standard protocol of storing a spare tire and accessories to change a flat tire if it ever occurs unexpectedly, and of course, taking the time and gadgets to monitor your vehicle for any problems. Take advantage of the sunny weather in the Philippines and include a solar powered tire monitoring pressure system such as Zeepin’s Solar Powered Tire Pressure Monitoring System. The sensors are attached to each of your tires and alerts you when there is a leak or low pressure. This is a handy gadget to have, and helps to reduce those 'Oh no!' moments where you are caught unaware. As a bonus, it is solar powered, meaning there is no remembering to replace batteries or spending additional money to maintain the device in its lifetime.

Multi-Port Phone Charger

Gone are the days where the driver and occupants in the car will fight over the car charger. Now there are car chargers on the market with multiple charging ports available. Brands such as Incipo, PowerBear and Aukey now offer dual port USB models for any price range. PowerBear’s model boasts the ability to charge your mobile to 75 percent battery capacity in just under 45 minutes. The Aukey Dual Port Car Charger With Quick Charge 3.0 comes in at a reasonable $19 (or ph 990) while the pricier Incipregisters costs $35 (ph1824). The latter comes equipped with a lightning cable which is already built in. If you're willing to go high tech, consider a wireless car charger like the model offered by VanMass. It supports phones between 4 and 6.5 inches, and comes with great adjustability for optimal viewing when driving.

So if you're looking to upgrade your driving experience, look no further than these suggestions. They are a great starting point and cover some of the main concerns for drivers, including diagnostics, control and comfort - with a few added bonuses too.

What To Look For When Choosing National Piano Movers?

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Moving and relocating heavy musical instruments of great value takes special technique and planning as they are bulky and fragile at the same time. Thus, hiring professional and high-grade piano movers San Diego is highly important to avoid any kind of damage to your expensive instrument. When looking for piano movers and storage Company, it should be your top priority to do detailed research on the reliability and trustworthiness factors of different companies. Keep reading to learn how you can avoid lousy piano moving companies and select the right one which can do a perfect job for you.


1. Check Piano Mover’s Credentials

All the professional and authentic piano moving companies are licensed and registered with the Department of Transportation. Ensure to verify that the company you are going to hire holds all legal credentials. This will ensure that the company is fully trained to work as a skilled and professional specialist by taking all the industry safety and security measures of moving a piano.

2. Background and Experience

One should also look for the real background and experience history of a company to know how they actually deal with people. A proven record will make you ensure the fact that a company is able to deliver standard results. Moving piano is a specialist area and for damage free results, it is highly recommended to hire a well-experienced company as they know all the right techniques of moving.

3. Proper Storage Solution

Apart from providing piano moving services, a good company also offers temporary storage solutions for your instruments. Companies that specialize in piano moving services also know the best way to store them. In addition, make sure to check properly that the storage place that company offers should be entirely clean, climate controlled, and free of moisture. This is because pianos are made of wood and excessive moisture can degrade the quality of wood.

4. Verify Insurance Coverage

To protect your piano against any kind of damage during moving, it is necessary to verify insurance coverage. Before hiring any company, do not forget to ask them to give you a certificate from their insurance company. In most of the cases, the insurance policy provides enough amount of optimal coverage. Verifying insurance coverage will ensure if any incident of damage to piano happens, then you will be properly compensated.

5. Team and Right Equipment

Do a little research about the team of the company you are going to hire. A skilled and professional team always pre-visits your location to assess the various factors associated with the moving of the piano. They should own the premium-quality and right kinds of equipment to move around the piano and package it properly as well. Ask them about their procedure of moving a piano.

Final Thought!

Last but not the least, before hiring piano movers San Diego, compares the cost structure of various piano movers and storage companies. After choosing the right company for your needs, sign a contract with them.

Next-gen Entrepreneurs Gear up for Commercenter Alabang’s BIZ KIDS 2019

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The first-of-its-kind weekend fair in the South has confirmed its lineup of next-generation entrepreneurs! Scheduled on May 18-19, 2019 at Commercenter Alabang’s ground floor activity area, this year’s BIZ KIDS will feature the self-made products from 15 kiddie ventures, all started and run by business-minded youngsters.

Participating kiddie entrepreneurs, some of whom were also included in the 2018 roster, are bringing various merchandise ranging from food and beverages, arts and crafts, stationery and accessories, personalized gift items and souvenirs, and even skincare products that they made by themselves.

“We’re delighted to have both new and returning kids joining us this year,” shares Leslie Tagle-Dinglasan, Asst. Vice President for Marketing of Commercenter Alabang. “It tells us that even though they’re still young, they are perfectly capable of starting and sustaining a business.”

BIZ KIDS 2019 is headlined by the following food and beverage kiddie ventures: Esra & Nyanya Good Goods (by Esra and Enya Quintana), Missy Pearl Milk Tea and Desserts (by Bea and Billie Alorde), Lois Faith Gourmet Recipes (by Lois Faith Berino), DMC Sweet Treats (by Chelsea Bueno), Ace Sweet Ave (by Ace Madrelejos and Andrea and Sophia Santos), Crisps Gourmet Snacks (by Aria Gacutan, Anree Ignacio, and Almond Wong), Grand Slam Cookies (by Beatrice Veloso), and Yummy Bites (by Zac and Zion Jimenez).

For arts and crafts, which includes accessories, stationery, and other personalized miscellaneous items are the following mini-businesses: Lalaloopsy Jewelries (by Asha Amil), Kidz@work Arts and Crafting (by Patricio Rodriguez), Happy Hands (by Leigh Riley Bierras), Rafi & Miki (by Rafaela and Mikaela Reyes), Happy Terra (by Trent Batungbacal), and CLAYThings (by Natalie Sumagpao). Lastly, Flubber Blubber Soaps & Scrubs (by Hidde and Rinke Bartlema and Lucius Manalac), will be offering skincare products.

“The merchandise mix of this year’s BIZ KIDS is very diverse,” notes Tagle-Dinglasan. “We’re confident that our regular patrons, as well as those who will come to the mall to show their support for these kids and their ventures, will appreciate the variety of the products and the creativity that went into each one.”

Concluding the weekend fair is the BIZ KIDS AWARDS, which will recognize outstanding young entrepreneurs and mini-ventures of the 2019 roster in the following categories: Most Innovative Biz, Best Booth Design, and Sales Genius for Food-Desserts, Food-Snacks, Handicrafts, and Arts.

To further empower its lineup of young entrepreneurs, BIZ KIDS also hosted a weekend workshop last April 27-28, 2019. On the first day, Ms. Irika Vina Perez, Market Education Associate of the Philippine Stock Exchange, served as the resource speaker for the topic “Stock Marketing 101.” On the second day, Teacher Mona Liza Serrano of Thinking Hats gave a rundown of the fundamentals with her workshop on “Basic Entrepreneurial Skills.” Workshop meals were provided by Akrotiri Modern Eurasian Cuisine and Taters Entertainment Snacks, respectively.

“Teacher Mona said in her talk that nothing is impossible with kids, and we agree with her completely,” quips Tagle-Dinglasan. “Their potential is limitless, and us adults need to be there to encourage and guide them, and to open up opportunities for them to experience things they can learn from.”

“We will continue to empower our youth with BIZ KIDS,” adds Tagle-Dinglasan. “And we hope that people will support them, as well, by going to the event and buying their products.”

BIZ KIDS 2019 is presented by Commercenter Alabang, and is supported by media partners theAsianparent Philippines, Inquirer.net, InqPOP. Manila For Kids, CNN Philippines, Pop Life TV, Yuneoh.com, ClickTheCity.com, WhatsHappening.PH, WazzupPilipinas.com, Mom Center, The Parenting Emporium, Mommy Practicality and Mommy Levy.

Top 8 Grammar Apps to Help You Improve Your Writing

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Whether you’re an aspiring writer or simply a college student who would like to earn better grades on their essays, the good news is that there are many ways for you to improve your writing skills. Thanks to technology, there are many different apps and tools you can use in order to achieve this goal.

Improving your writing can be an easy process and you can work on it from wherever you are. Most tools and apps even come with mobile applications so you can use them at any time. Here are some of the best grammar apps you will find on the internet.

Hemmingway Editor App

Hemmingway Editor is an online editor which works in a very unique and easy to use way. It shows you our different types of mistakes through a series of colors with which it colors the incorrect words or phrases.

After some practice with it, you will be able to simply copy and paste your content onto the online form it offers and let the colors correct your mistakes without much effort.

Grammarly

Probably one of the most well-known apps on the list, Grammarly is one of those tools that most people who work with writing have used. This both online and desktop-available app can help you spot grammar and spelling mistakes and any other problem from stylistic errors to repetitive words and phrases and correct use of tenses.

The good news is that there is also a mobile app called Grammarly keyboard, which can help you improve your texts and therefore help you improve your writing on the go.

WowGrade

If you’re looking for an online platform for writers and people in need of writing advice, WoWGrade is the right place for you. Not only is this service hosted by professional writers who have experience in the field, but it also gives you the chance to see exactly how these professionals work and gain valuable experience.

A mobile app for this app is in the making and will be a great help to those who wish to have access to accurate writing information wherever they are.

Evernote

Sometimes, you need something more than just a simple grammar app in order to really unleash your full writing potential. Evernote is a great note-keeping app which offers a large variety of features. This free to use tool also comes in a mobile form so that you can always keep track of your ideas when you’re on the go.

With Evernote you can keep voice memos, draw doodles of your ideas, include pictures in your notes and do all sorts of other things with it. The app will also help you change some basic grammar and spelling errors by underlining them.

Jotter Pad

Similar to Evernote, this app is a mobile text editor which helps you keep all of your creative thoughts in one place without having to deal with any distractions. At the same time, you can easily sync your app with the Cloud services of your choice and find your content on any device you use.

Another cool thing about this app is that it shows you a word count as well as a way for you to simply export your text into a finalized PDF file and publish it whenever you feel ready.

Studicus

Another great professional app used by writers and various businesses, Studicus can help you keep up with the latest trends in the writing world. Apart from having someone to ask about your writing issues and difficulties, you will also have the chance to see firsthand how it is to work on a dissertation and correct all the mistakes you might come across.

Studicus is working on releasing a mobile app in the nearest future. The creators of this app wish to be able to provide their followers with the best type of services possible, no matter whether they have access to a laptop or not and a mobile app will truly make this possible.

iA Writer

If you’re finding that your writing is better when you eliminate distractions, you might need to start using a writing app which can help you stay more focused. If you’re concentrated on your work you will very easily be able to spot your grammatical mistakes by yourself and improve your writing in no time.

This plain writing app offer you a clean and simple writing environment which can really help you focus on what’s important. It is available for your desktop as well as your smartphone.

Ginger

This grammar and language checker is bound to help you spot any and all mistakes from your texts. You can find and use it online, for your desktop and also through an app for your phone. Apart from simply correcting spelling and grammar mistakes, it can help you make your text appear more natural and well-written, as it includes that feature.

Another thing great about this app is that it also gives you access to many different English practice courses which are available in more than 40 different languages. Even if English is not your mother tongue, you will still be able to improve and make this work.

Picking the Right Grammar App for Your Writing Needs

Writing apps might be able to help you catch some mistakes you will be making but they will not help you improve your writing if you don’t make an effort to look into the mistakes you make frequently. The more attention you pay to correcting your mistakes, the easier it will be for you to start making them less and less frequent.

Which of these grammar apps are you looking forwards to trying the most?

Bio:

Jerry Rhodes is a professional writer for EssaysDeluxe. The love for his profession shows through his actions outside of work as he runs his very own blog under the name “StudyZone”. That is a place where he is able to discuss different issues regarding writing and studying difficulties connecter to writing and offer tips on how people can improve their writing skills without much effort. He always enjoys listening to classical music while creating his posts as it helps him stay inspired and concentrated.

Energy Sector, COMELEC Team Up for Polls

Wazzup Pilipinas!

SECURE ENERGY FACILITIES: Undersecretary and ETFE Chairperson Alexander S. Lopez highlighted the importance of securing the critical energy facilities in order to ensure stable energy supply during the final coordination meeting held in Energy Center, Taguig City.

To ensure continuous and adequate energy supply during the National and Local Elections on 13 May 2019, the Energy Task Force Election (ETFE) together with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) conducted its final coordination meeting last thursday (2 May 2019).

“Our main goal is to ensure that there will be adequate and uninterrupted supply of energy during the election period,” Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi said.

DOE Undersecretary and EFTE Chairperson Alexander S. Lopez alongside with COMELEC Election and Barangay Affairs Department Director Teopisto E. Elnas, Jr. led the discussion to ensure that preparations are in place and ready seven days prior to elections.

“Filipino voters deserve clean and unquestionable elections with the stable provision of energy during the voting until the full transmission of results,” Sec. Cusi added.

Undersecretary Lopez underscored the importance of communication and coordination before, during and after elections and to ensure that all contingency plans are in place specifically on energy facilities and other critical assets. He also pointed out the importance of close coordination with the security group composed of National Security Council, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, and the Philippine Coast Guard.

Director Elnas stressed that the efforts of the energy sector with the help of the security group will help the conduct of peaceful, orderly, honest and credible elections.

Members of the ETFE, National Electrification Administration (NEA), National Power Corporation (NPC), National Transmission Corporation (TransCo), Power Sector Assets and Liabilitites Management Corporation (PSALM), Philippine Electricity Market Corporation (PEMC). Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines Inc. (IEMOP), National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) and Manila Electric Company (MERALCO), presented their final preparations and contingencies to critical areas during the meeting.

Energy Secretary Cusi assured the public that the energy sector will be working 24/7 to help ensure a successful National and Local Elections.

OTHER PHOTO:

STRENGTHENED TEAMWORK: Energy Sector, through the Energy Task Force Election, and COMELEC intensifies collaboration to ensure peaceful, orderly, honest and credible election during the final coordination meeting held in Energy Center, Taguig City.

Ross Del Rosario at Ang Pinaka Show of GMA News TV

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Our Editor-in-Chief Ross Del Rosario was among the panelists who ranked and gave opinions or syories about the different destination festivals in the Philippines at the Ang Pinaka TV show of GMA News TV, airing on channel 11, one of the country's local channels.

"Not all festivals or ‘fiestas’ in the Philippines are religion-based. Some modern festivals highlight the culture, history, tourism, or a particular product or industry of a particular destination. This Sunday, GMA News TV’s longrunning and awardwinning infotainment program ‘Ang Pinaka’ lists down some of the most colorful ‘man-made’ celebrations in the top ten ‘Ang Pinaka: Bonggang Destination Festivals.’

Joining host Rovilson Fernandez are guest panelistas: GMA News Senior Reporter and TV Host Susan Enriquez, WazzupPilipinas.com Editor in Chief Ross del Rosario, and actor/director/blogger Icko Gonzalez. Find out the Top 10 “Ang Pinaka: Bonggang Destination Festivals” this Sunday on ‘Ang Pinaka,’ May 5, 2019 on GMA News TV at 6:30pm."

The on cam interview was done about a month before the actual airing and was only notified of the actual date just a few days before May 5. 

According to Ross, this is not the first time he guested as a resource person for a TV show, but he was still nervous amidst the strong lights and camera and crew focused on him while being interviewed for the show.

The topic was appropriate since Wazzup Pilipinas has been featuring theany festivals of the country but since there are so many because every municipaility, city, province, etc has their very own festival, whether to celebrate a patron saint, a bountiful harvest, product(s) or important part of history or culture, or even a group of people as in the Lagaslas Bangkero Festival in tribute of the boatmen, we coukd probably have a difficult time accounting for the exact number of festivals in the country.

The target is to at least experience the bigger and mote significant festivals aside from visiting all the 81 provinces. But since it is more difficult and costly to visit during festival season, the challenge could be daunting next to impossible unless the local government or tourism offices ollaborates with us.

We would like to thank Ang Pinaka team for considering our Editor-in-Chief to be part of the show. To be able to share memories and knowledge of our experience is quite memorable as it is not everyday you get to be seen on national TV.

List of Best Selling Vodka Brands In India

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Vodka means “little water” in the Russian language. It was originated in Russia and Poland. It is made primarily with water and ethanol alcohol of agricultural origin like such as wheat, rye, potato, corn or barley. The “Eastern” style is famous for flavour while the “Western” style is better for the people seeking a pure and neutral spirit.

Though the product is distilled for multiple times, it will still contain a trace of impurities. The plain vodkas are infused with an additive to create flavoured vodka. The flavours may be like pepper or citrus or bacon. It contains 35% - 50% alcohol by volume. People in India love food and Delhi being the capital of India is also the Food Capital of the country. Read more about the best thing to eat in Delhi by the best food bloggers “Do Chatore Dilli Ke” 

The various brands available in India are:

1. Grey Goose:

It is one of the first vodkas available in the Indian market today. This French Vodka is manufactured at high-end units in France and was originally created by Sidney Frank, an American Businessman.

It was awarded a Platinum medal with being labelled ‘the best tasting vodka’ by the Beverage Tasting Institute in 1998. This brand includes 40% alcohol and five flavour variants are available – Grey Goose Regular, Cherry Noir, La Poire’, L’ Orange, and Le Citron. In India, the price of the beverage is INR 6000 per 750 ml.

2. Belvedere:

It is exclusively distilled and produced from the finest rye in Poland. This vodka is famous for 3 brands in India – Belvedere Red, Belvedere Silver, and Belvedere Intense.

It is quite smooth, cheaper than Grey Goose and also very popular in India for its amazing taste. The price of the beverage ranges from INR 4800 to INR 5602 for 700 ml.

3. Absolut:

This vodka is the third largest brand of alcoholic spirits in the World. This is produced in Sweden by Pernod Richard. This extremely smooth vodka is very attractive for its iconic bottle designs. This is considered as the best-selling vodka brands selling in India

The most readily available flavours in India are – Absolut Mandarin, Absolut Citron, Absolut Kurant, Absolut Peppar, Absolut Peach, and Absolut 100. The price range is INR 2000 per 750 ml.

4. Smirnoff:

It is produced by the British company Diageo, one of the biggest alcohol companies in the World. It is distilled 10 times before coming into the main scene. The plain old Smirnoff vodka is made from corn, making it totally gluten-free.

It won a gold medal in 2012. Various flavours of Smirnoff include – Smirnoff Vanilla, Smirnoff Lime, Smirnoff Green Apple, and Smirnoff Orange. The price of 1000 ml of the Vodka is INR 1190.

5. Eristoff:

This vodka is originated from Georgia and one of the finest vodka available in the Indian market. This vodka is triple filtered by charcoal and prepared by Bacardi-Martin India.

The available flavours are – Eristoff Original, Eristoff Apple, and Eristoff Green. The price of 750 ml of this vodka is INR 790.

6. Wodka Gor bats chow:

This Vodka is produced in Berlin, Germany and is produced by Kenkell and Company India Pvt. Ltd. This vodka brand is one of the most consumed spirits in Germany and famous for quality, pureness, and mildness.

This vodka includes Orange, Green, Apple, and Vanilla flavours apart from the original. It contains 42.8% alcohol with a price of INR 683 per 750 ml.

7. Romanov:

This vodka gets its name from the last Russian Czar. It is manufactured and marketed by United Spirits Ltd. It contains 42.8% alcohol and has 4 variants such as – Premium, Orange, Lemon, and Apple.

This is the cheapest and best vodka brands in India and has a great demand. It is distilled and filtered multiple times to induce richness and spiciness in taste. The price of Romanov in India is INR 310 per 750 ml.

Vodka is mainly famous among the young generation. Today any party is literally incomplete without vodka shots. It is also a favourite component of many cocktails. A few brands in India produce vodka and the brands include different price ranges for different items, so it easily affordable for low-cost club and also for rich kids. From exquisite and modern to the most essentials, these vodka brands in India is perfect for certain mixed drinks and flawless with a ton of creative ability and the guarantee of an extraordinary night ahead. Even more as of late individuals are trying different things with irregular flavours. It is a vital piece of most of the mixed drinks, settling on it a top decision as a gathering drink these days. The party can never be finished without vodka in it. Breeze your way through the battles of existence with an injection of vodka.

Vaccination Scare: The Rebirth of an Outbreak

Vaccination Scare: The Rebirth of an Outbrea

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Measles is definitely one of the known diseases that can affect a lot of children as early as 6 months old or even younger. It has been long eradicated through the effective vaccination of infants but due to certain circumstances, especially in the Philippines, the long-dead disease began to resurface again. A lot of innocent children were pronounced dead and many more have succumbed to such disease when in the first place, it shouldn’t be a big threat anymore.

When Vaccination Fails

One of the probable reasons why parents have stopped vaccinating their babies with the right immunizations is because of the recent flop that happened with the Dengvaxia vaccine.  MMR or the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine is usually administered to infants once a certain number of months is reached. But due to the recent deaths caused by the Dengvaxia vaccine, a lot of parents swayed away from having their kids administered with any form of a vaccine.

The immunization rates were already down their target of 95% and are continuously falling further due to the scare that has brought upon with vaccines. People lost their trust when it comes to vaccines and will rather not have their kids immunized because they believe that it will be just making their children sick.

By the Numbers

This lead to an outbreak in several regions in the Philippines wherein a lot of children has been positive with measles. Records show that there already has been a 74% increase of measles cases in the Philippines and it already reached an alert state wherein cases of measles have greatly increased to 550%.

Measles is an airborne disease that can be easily transferred from one child to another most especially if there’s no proper immunization present. A person can be infected with measles just by exposure to a person with measles and is transferred through coughing or sneezing. The symptoms of measles include rashes, cough, inflamed eyes, runny nose, and a high fever.

Why Measles is Dangerous

Complications due to measles are the primary reason for the death of a lot of children. Bronchopneumonia is one of these and it greatly affects the health state of a person leading to unwanted deaths. This is why having the children vaccinated is the best possible option that a parent can do to protect their kids from contracting such dangerous disease.

Parents should be wary of these circumstances and should not wait for complications to occur because it will be harder for it to be treated. In some cases, adults should also be vaccinated from this disease since it doesn’t only attack children but also older people as well.

Don’t let the Past Haunt the Present and the Future

Health officials publicly announced that parents should put everything in the past including the issue with the Dengvaxia vaccine and have their children vaccinated. It is time to set aside this controversy regarding Dengvaxia and step forward to keep their children’s health secured because the MMR vaccine has already been proven and tested compared to what Dengvaxia has proven.

The immunization for measles is free for people to have and it is a must to have the children vaccinated to help eradicate this outbreak that is already spreading across the country.

The government is already helping to promote the vaccination of children through certain campaigns which showed a few positive results. Some parents already had their children vaccinated due to this scare but other remains stiff on their foundation of having their children immunized will cause further complications.

Let’s stop this stigma that vaccines are not reliable and not effective. Don’t let one mistake affect the credibility of others. It is time to move up and be a responsible parent and have your children vaccinated against measles.

It is up to you to stop the spread of this dreadful disease that people have started. A vaccinated child against measles can go a long way in helping in lowering the number of cases and digging up the grave for measles to not to return again to this land.

About the Author:

Jahmil Caon is a content writer and blog owner. The man behind the blog swertrespost.com. A blog that provides honest and accurate information about swertres hearing, swertres results and tips.

Spy Docu Film Wins World IP Day Pitching Showcase

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Genre-bending documentary film project “Looter” by Jayson Bernard Santos bagged the Best Pitch award at a pitching showcase conducted by the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) for the World Intellectual Property Day celebration last April 27, 2019 at Novotel Manila Araneta Center in Cubao, Quezon City.

Twenty-one (21) Filipino feature and documentary film projects were chosen to join the pitching showcase, and “Looter” emerged as the victor. Director Santos will have the chance to go to Los Angeles to participate in a four-day Film and Television Immersion Course courtesy of the Motion Picture Association (MPA) in Los Angeles, California.

A SineSaysay finalist, “Looter” “melds the story of Naomi Flores and the women of the Philippine underground and espionage in World War 2. Straddling the line between different modes, the film employs creative techniques that are interspersed with archival footage, interviews, and unnerving dramatized sequences.”

Odin’s Eye Entertainment Head of International Sales and Distribution Martin Gallery and "Alimuom" Director Keith Sicat

Meanwhile, Director Keith Sicat impressed the panel during the pitching showcase with his feature film project “Unos,” a sequel to TOFARM Film Festival's“Alimuom,” which became the runner-up.

To help spread awareness about the Intellectual Property (IP) rights of Filipino filmmakers, FDCP also conducted a lecture series on Film Distribution, Intellectual Property Rights and Pitching Essentials. FDCP partnered with the MPA supported by the Department of Trade and Industry-Expert Marketing Bureau (DTI-EMB) and the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) to make the event happen.

“Our films hold a lot of promise and potential to compete in the global market. Having events like these pitching showcase and lecture series is a huge help to our filmmakers for them to learn more about tapping into the international audience and have better chances in penetrating world cinema,” said FDCP Chairperson and CEO Mary Liza Diño.

2 Miss Universe Titleholders and Celebrity Performers Amplify the HIV Advocacy

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, and Concert King Martin Nievera headline this year's Love Gala: Courage Amplify on May 11 at the ABS-CBN Vertis Tent in Quezon City.

Wurtzbachwill launch a new advocacy campaign that promotes HIV treatment-as-prevention method. Graywill offer words of courage to commemorate all those who lost their lives to the virus in the 2019 International AIDS Candlelight Memorial ceremony.

Meanwhile, Martin will serenade the occasion to show his support for the HIV/AIDS advocacy. Suklay Diva Katrina Velarde, Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2 Grand Star Dreamer Laarni Lozada, World Champions of Performing Arts winner Rhap Salazar, The Voice Philippines Season 2 Finalist Leah Patricio, Prince of Ballad Gerald Santos, Jeffrey Hidalgo, Ana Ramsey, and more will also lend their voices for the cause. In addition, Zeus Collins of the Hashtags, Addlib Dance Company, and Hiraya Dance Company will gracefully extend their moves to support the advocacy.

The 2nd Ripple Awards will also be conferred at the Love Gala. This award is given to individuals, organizations, and initiatives that have greatly contributed to the HIV/AIDS advocacy. Esteemed panel of judges from World Health Organization, UNAIDS and other international and local institutions rigorously screened the awardees. The awards will be presented by DJ Chacha, Kaladkaren Davila, Paolo Ballesteros, CK of the Hashtags, Vivoree Esclito, Iyah Mina, BJ Pascual, Phil Palmos, Samantha Mae Bernardo and Empress Schuck.

The charity-gala promises to be a memorable evening of exquisite music, worthwhile fundraising, and heartfelt recognition of movers in the HIV cause. For those who want to be part of this special night, tickets are available at www.lovegala.org.

Love Gala is hosted by LoveYourself and UNAIDS. LoveYourself is the country’s leading non-government organization that provides free HIV education, testing and counseling, and treatment services, among others. Meanwhile, UNAIDS is leading the global effort to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 as part of its Sustainable Development Goal.

Love Gala is supported by AIDS Healthcare Foundation, World Health Organization (WHO), Department of Health (Philippines), PhilHealth, Save the Children Philippines, Philippine National AIDS Council, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. and Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations (AFAO); co-presented by ABS-CBN Corporation, Durex, Camber by Hetero, Cape Lupe, Hairdressers Against AIDS by L'Oreal Philippines; and sponsored by Gilead Sciences, TELUS International, Victoria Court, SIP, Inspi Philippines, Absolut & Olmeca, Okamoto Philippines, Maquillage Professionnel School of Make Up Artistry, Vicks, Downy, Business Mirror, Digital Out of Home with contributions from Mont Albo, Shopee, Cognizant, Rotary International D3780, MASS TV & F1 Hotel Manila.