Opening Soon in Binondo: 021 Maker Space Dream Incubator

Wazzup Pilipinas!

This September, 021 Group OPC will soon be opening 021 Maker Space Dream Incubator, a new coworking space and business incubator located on the 8th floor of Co Ban Kiat II building along Juan Luna Street, in the heart of Binondo, the busy commercial district of Manila.

The new coworking space will be the company’s first and largest coworking space in Manila’s Chinatown district.

The Co Ban Kiat II building is one of the historical structures in Binondo. It was built during the Pre-War period and was previously called S.J. Wilson building, named after American Navy expatriate Samuel J. Wilson. The building, in the pre-war era, used to be the headquarters of the Manila Stock Exchange and many other prominent companies and firms, including the Standard and Chartered Bank, the Japanese Consulate General’s office, Bank of America, Sunlife of Canada, Phil Am Life Insurance, France Consulate, Switzerland Consulate, and many others.

"A lot of old structures in Binondo have already been knocked down including the Kawanihan ng Rentas Internas in Escolta. But it's good that the Co Ban Kiat family decided to keep the building which was built during the Deco Art period. With 021 Maker Space being in that building, it's going to be like "Modern meets Historical." - Salome Belir.

The 021 Maker Space coworking and incubator would occupy over 836 square meters of office space. It would have 170 rentable private workstations, coworking desks, meeting rooms, nursery room, phone booths, and ample area for sitting and events venue. Noting the exceptional demand of a coworking space in the country, the 021 Maker Space Dream Incubator would offer competitive rates and would cater not only to startup companies but to companies of all sizes, freelancers, entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, influencers, and even students.

What sets 021 Maker Space different from other coworking spaces? Venture Capital is a term often thrown around when it comes to startups and new businesses. An entrepreneur’s genius business idea often will need business funding in order to grow and Investors may offer to make a venture capital investment in exchange for a percentage return. The 021 Maker Space will be serving as a bridge between the Entrepreneurs and Capital Investors and will help with the incubation of promising companies, countless startup businesses, and turning them into multinational giants. Therefore, with the creation of the incubator named 021 Maker Space, it will turn ventures from “zero to one”.

“Opening a coworking space during a pandemic?” It is indeed very challenging to open a coworking space in the current situation, but the owners of 021 Maker Space Dream Incubator believe that despite this pandemic, coworking is still the future on how people will work and that capital venture can have a huge contribution to the country’s economic growth. There are many companies that have asked their employees to work remotely and this kind of office space setup is expected to grow. At the same time, there are a lot of entrepreneurs and startups with amazing business plans who are not afraid to commence their venture and take risks even during this challenging situation. The 021 Maker Space has the potential to provide vital business services to startup businesses and support the remote workforce closer to where they are now.

What Services and Facilities will 021 Maker Space Offer its Customers? Aside from a modern and elegantly furnished coworking space, 021 Maker Space will be offering the following services to its clients:

Private Offices
Coworking Dedicated Desk and Hot Desk
Virtual Office Space
Meeting Rooms and Event Space
Wi-Fi 6 Connectivity with Up to 1 Gbps high internet speed
Cozy Lounges and Sitting Area
Phone Booths
Wellness Room
Professional/Business Events
Community Events
Round the Clock Cleaning Team
Complimentary Refreshments

Reserve your 021 Maker Space Dream Incubator coworking space
now while there are still spaces to choose from.

For inquiries, contact:

Contact No. : 09171111921
Email Add: admin@021makerspace.com
Website: https://www.021makerspace.com/
FB Page : https://www.facebook.com/021MakerSpace
IG Page : https://www.instagram.com/021makerspace/
Twitter : https://twitter.com/021Maker
Linkedn : https://ph.linkedin.com/company/021makerspace

Denice Zamboanga to Stay in Thailand, Hoping to Compete in Bangkok Soon

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Number one ranked ONE Championship female atomweight Denice “The Menace” Zamboanga is keeping busy in Thailand, training and staying ready in case she gets the call to compete in an upcoming card in Bangkok.





Bouts for ONE Championship’s A NEW BREED events through August and September have yet to be announced, and Zamboanga is holding out hope that she can return to the ONE Circle sooner rather than later.





With lockdown restrictions tightening in her native Philippines due to a worsening Covid-19 situation, Zamboanga is left without much of a choice but to stay in Thailand. Accompanying her in the ‘Land of a Thousand Smiles’ is her older brother, Drex, and their friend Fritz Biagtan. Together, they are preparing Zamboanga for a potential upcoming bout.





"Right now I'm just training here in Bangkok with my brother Drex and our friend Fritz Biagtan. I'm very lucky because I can still do what I love to do,” said Zamboanga.





“I just want to stay ready, because anytime, I can get called up to compete now that ONE Championship is hosting events here in Thailand."





ONE Championship successfully returned to its flagship event schedule with ONE: NO SURRENDER last 31 July. The promotion has NO SURRENDER II and NO SURRENDER III coming up on 14 August and 21 August respectively, as well as three more shows lined up in Bangkok on 28 August, 11 September and 18 September.





Zamboanga is hoping to appear on at least one of those cards.





"I really want to fight and compete, so I'm just waiting for that call from ONE Championship. Need to stay as sharp as possible, because the World Title shot is just around the corner,” said Zamboanga.





"Right now, I need to work on my speed. Speed is a great asset to have in the ring. Of course, I'm constantly working on my striking skills and ground game. Thankfully my brother is here to help me."





The 23-year-old rising star also recently revealed that she had parted ways with the Fairtex team in Pattaya to pursue her own ventures.





While at Fairtex, Zamboanga had trained with athletes such as ONE Atomweight Muay Thai World Champion Stamp Fairtex, Nat “Wondergirl Fairtex” Nutchakamon, and Noelle Grandjean. But more than training partners, they had become close friends.





She stresses that there are no ill-feelings between her and Fairtex, and that she will always consider the people she made bonds with there as true allies.





"I love my friends at Fairtex. We are very close. Even though I am no longer with Fairtex, they are all still my friends. Stamp, Nat, Noelle, and all my teammates, and coach DJ. I don't think that bond can be broken,” said Zamboanga.





Although she’s fixated on training, and possibly competing again in the very near future, Zamboanga can’t help but feel homesick and wanting to return to the Philippines to see her family and friends. But with travel restrictions abound, and varying levels of quarantine measures, it has been impossible to move around.





Still, Zamboanga is enthusiastic about being able to return to the Philippines later this year.





"Hopefully before this year ends, and Thailand opens its airports, and I can fly back, I can go home to the Philippines. Right now the situation is really complicated. I really miss home,” said Zamboanga.





"This is all just a big test, but one test that everyone can get through. I just want to say, stay strong everyone. God has a plan and we just have to have faith."




Catch your favorite ONE Championship superstars now on Cignal TV and TV5.

Matteo and Sarah Guidicelli Explains High Electricity Bills for Meralco

Wazzup Pilipinas!

"Tulad ng iba, nagtaka sina Sarah G at Matteo G sa kanilang Meralco bill. Pero ngayon, G na G na sila magpaliwanag!"

Mga artista pa talaga pinagpaliwanag ninyo #MERALCO, huwag naman ganun huwag estimated reading sa metro! Mga kamote kayo!

Ang tanong! How much ang binayad na talent fee kina Matteo Guidicelli at Sarah Geronimo para mag-explain for Meralco?

Itong dalawa na ito lang pala ang makikinabang sa minagic na bill. Mayaman na pinayaman pa sa TF nila. Kahit sino pang Poncio Pilato kunin ninyo na magpaliwanag walang maniniwala!! Imbes ibalik ang minagic ninyo sa mga consumer, binigay ninyo pa sa kanila. Hay buhay!!!!!

Yung TF na binayad nyo sa dalawang yan, kung nireimburse nyo yung magic na ginawa nyo sa mga billing namin baka natuwa pa kami ng konti sa inyo. Porke't monopolyo nyo ang kuryente kung magmagic kayo 110%!! Hindi na kami magtataka kung kompanya nyo na sunod na mapasara!! Nakikisabay pa kayo sa pahirap sa Pilipino!! Peste!

Next bill may additional payment na naman idagdag alam na. Yung system loss nga  kinakarga sa customers, lalo pa binayad dito na ilang milyon panigurado.

Lahat ng kompanya rin ni Pangilinan ganyan ang style, mas gusto pa gastusin sa propaganda ang pera kesa gamitin para ayusin ang serbisyo at makatulong sa Pilipino, tingnan nyo yung smart kumuha ng mga Korean star para lang sabihin na fastest daw ang Smart. Foreigner kasi talaga may-ari kaya hindi concerned sa Pilipino.

Would you believe this explanation as coming a guy who did a careless unboxing and involvement with The Pop Stage issue, of course the same couple who tried to hide their marriage from the lady's mother?

Ang meralco ay mas matindi pa sa Covid-19. Grabe ang virus nila sa pagnakaw ng pera ng Pilipino at walang gamot diyan kundi government take-over na mismo!

Sana kunin na kayo ng gobyerno! Wala kayong kuwenta! Takot na takot kayo malugi ng isang buwan eh trillion naman ang kinita nyo sa amin.

DepEd Does Not Hear the Call for an Academic Freeze, Instead Follows President's Order to Move Opening of Classes to October 5

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Sec. Leonor Briones announced that
DepEd is moving the school opening to October 5 from August 24.

Briones said "We will now implement such decision to defer school opening to Oct 5 pursuant to RA  11480. It will be recalled that the law specifically states that the President can decide on the opening of school classes upon recommendation of DepEd secretary."

"We hope that this will be the final adjustment of the school opening. We look forward to a much prepared opening of classes."

"We trust that this is the final schedule of school opening."

Instead of moving it, why don't you just cancel the whole school year?

The Philippine government doesn’t know the meaning of #AcademicFreeze, just like mass testing lmao

Ang inorder namin: #AcademicFreeze

Pero ang dumating: "DepEd moves school opening to October 5 from August 24, Sec. Leonor Briones announced"

It didnt have to take this long for Briones to realize.

DepEd really needs to have a Secretary who realistically became a Public School Teacher or became part of the Public School sys. Someone who really knows the plight of the teachers and the needs of the students.

Most of these officials are not having internet, financial and transportation problems. In the end they are not the one who will be affected on the outcome of this problems. These officials will stay rich no matter what will happen.

Is it really that hard to admit that we are all not ready? Don't make education possible only for privileged people.

Academic freeze is a MUST.
It's not just what we WANT.
It's what we NEED.

Some private schools have started their online classes, but I would say #academicfreeze because online class is not effective. It's more tiring than face-to-face classes.

I'm so proud to those students who are also in favor sa #academicfreeze despite of having a stable internet connection at complete sa needs for online class kasi they all know na not everyone has the same good situation as them. Thank you for considering the struggles of the majority.

Yes to #AcademicFreeze, Yes we have stable connection, Yes we have access on wifi. But what about those students who can't afford load? Those parents who can't afford wifi connection for their children? na imbis na ipangkain nalang nila sa araw araw, ipang babayad pa nila sa wifi.

This modules, mga parents ang kukuha ng module and sila din ang magpapasa, seriously? It's risky. Hindi natin alam if safe na lumabas ngayon, because the virus is widely spread 120k+ covid cases. Please we need academic freeze. The school and the students can wait. Our safety and heath must prioritized.

For those private schools na wala pa ding binabawas sa tuition ng mga students, like hello??? Pandemic exists, covid exists. Hindi lahat ng trabaho ngayon maganda ang takbo.

I just dont get it. What’s the purpose of moving the opening of classes? Are we expecting na on Oct 5, all students will have a stable internet connection? Enough educational resources? Na pag gising natin sa Oct 5, lahat na tayo may laptop?

Students struggling to get gadgets for online classes fall victim to abuse and sexual exploitation. There are also reports that students allegedly sell nude photos to earn for online classes.

Academic freeze is possibly the best solution to our problem right since it is very unfair for those who aren't able to go to school and for those who don't have the means to support their children financially for this school year.

Even the most privileged of students want academic freeze not for convenience’s sake, but because they stand by their belief that no one should be left behind. Even if everyone were privileged enough, not all homes are conducive for learning.

DepEd knows well that this has been a concern since June but no actions were made instead they make excuses just to justify that education is a must. Yes it is but we are in a middle of a pandemic. A PANDEMIC I think you all know better what a PANDEMIC is.

DepEd states blended learning is existing already even in 1940s.

In the midst of exponential technological advancements, we are nailed in a 1940-kind of education, brought to us by a 79-year old secretary of education.

Still, the best solution is #AcademicFreezeNOW.

By the way, college students are handled by CHED, so it means they have regular classes?


#YesToAcademicFreeze
#AcademicFreeze

Sheraton Manila Bay Now Offers Duck a l’orange and Chicken Pot Pie

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Sheraton Manila Bay offers classic French cuisine Duck a l’orange and savoury Chicken Pot Pie on its Gourmet Takeaway menu.

While traveling, as we know it, may still be limited, you can still embark on a gastronomic journey around the world with our Culinary Courier. Sheraton Manila Bay’s new food-to-go offers brings the classic and familiar flavors of French cuisine with Duck a l’orange and all-time family favorite Chicken Pot Pie to the comfort of your homes.

A delightful and filling treat for those working from home or celebrating special occasions with your loved ones, our crispy and tenderly roasted Duck a l’orange available in whole portion at Php 2800 net and in premium breast cut at Php 2900 net is served with luscious, sweet, and tangy orange sauce come with steamed rice and good for sharing up to 4 persons. Meanwhile, our classic Chicken Pot Pie available in medium size at Php 950 net and large at Php 1400 net, is baked to perfection with its flaky, buttery crust, creamy sauce and hearty mix of chicken.

Tempting as it is to save these gustatory offering for only special occasions, we make it easy for foodies at home order these for your daily indulgence by calling +632 5318 0788, 09175837294, 09175837326 or email sh.mnlsb.fnb@sheraton.com.

24 hour advance order is required. Diners shall arrange pick-up with their courier of choice. Cash and credit card payments are accepted. The hotel will strictly implement a No Mask, No Pick-up Policy and has designated a pick-up point at the hotel main entrance canopy area to ensure social distancing measure are followed and health and safety precautions are met.

For a full listing of gourmet takeaways menu, please visit http://bit.ly/ccmnlsb

Sheraton Manila Bay is located at M. Adriatico cor. Gen. Malvar Streets, Malate, Manila. Like us on Facebook and Instagram @sheratonmanilabay and Twitter at @sheratonmnlbay.

Youth Redesigns a Resilient and Sustainable Future for their City

Wazzup Pilipinas!

World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines staff trains students to think about sustainability back in December of 2018. The Education for Sustainable Development framework trains students to be young leaders for the environment.

Just in time for this year’s International Youth Day and amidst the ongoing pandemic, selected Quezon City high school students and Alternative Learning System (ALS) learners have released their final vision statement detailing their dreams and aspirations for a more inclusive, healthier and livable future for their home city.

A total of 293 youths from Balingasa High School, Judge Feliciano Belmonte Sr. High School, Justice Cecilia Munoz Palma Senior High School, and the Alternative Learning System who are participants of the Our City 2030: Youth Visions and Solutions project helped conceptualize their own vision for Quezon City by the year 2030. Inputs from two batches of students and learners from 2018 up to present were gathered and consolidated through a series of workshops

ALS learners arrange their concerns with Quezon City in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals during a workshop held in March 2019. The Our City 2030: Youth Visions and Solutions project seeks to have students contribute to the sustainable development of their home city. Photograph © Debby Sy / WWF-Philippines

Focusing on youth and the city, visioning workshops were held last December 2018, March 2019 and February 2020, with a final online series in July of 2020. These included interactive lectures, group activities, and individual reflections. Through these activities, the participants’ perception of the interest, identity, and issues of the youth were identified. They were also asked to assess and rate the status of Quezon City on its life, work, and play dimensions, which were later paralleled to the pillars of sustainable development – people, progress, and the planet.

"If I can describe this visioning workshop in one word, it will be 'new'. Almost all of the things I experienced there were new—new learning,” said Kian D. Canapit, a student participant, on his experiences with the Our City 2030 project.

The workshops also aimed to broaden their knowledge on Climate Change, Sustainable Development Goals, Disaster Risk Reduction, and the 1.5C Global Warming. It also introduced the concept of ESD or the Education for Sustainable Development to help in developing the skills, knowledge, attributes, and values of the youth.

The Our City 2030 project team joins students and educators for an online visioning workshop, held in July 2020. Due to the restrictions set in place to combat the pandemic, the vision statement was formed through online meetings. Parental/Guardian consents were asked before the training was conducted. Photograph © MK Amador / Plan International Philippines

With the current COVID-19 pandemic, the youth is considered one of the vulnerable sectors but they can also be mobilized to respond to these kinds of risks. That is why the project team from the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines and Plan International Philippines continue to engage the youth participants virtually through various webinars and online training.

Part of the discussion on their recently concluded 4-day virtual training last July 2020 was the youth’s vulnerabilities to disasters and other risks. Participating students were also provided with a platform to share their observations and experiences on how their school administration, community officials, and city government respond to the current health crisis. From these learnings and discussion, a vision and roadmap/action plan were then produced towards the end of the online series.

Incorporating these outputs into the vision of the previous batch, the youth group devised an updated vision statement summarizing their concerns, priorities, and aspirations for the future of a “new” Quezon City:



“Kami ay nangangarap ng isang bagong Quezon City na maayos, maunlad at mapayapa, na pinamumunuan ng pamahalaang tapat sa tungkulin, may malasakit at pinahahalagahan ang boses ng kabataan; kung saan ang mga mamamayan ay may respeto, disiplina, pagkakaisa, pagtutulungan at lahat ay malayang natatamasa ang malinis na kapaligiran, maaasahang serbisyong pangkalusugan, epektibong sistema ng transportasyon, ligtas na pamayanan, sapat na pampublikong pabahay, matatag na kabuhayan at napapanahong teknolohiya na makakapagbigay ng makabuluhang impormasyon at makakatuwang sa kalidad na edukasyon pagdating ng 2030.”

As the Our City 2030 project enters its third year, it strives for this vision to be recognized by the city government and for the action plans of these young people to be included in the future plans of Quezon City. At the same time, the project continues to find larger platforms for the youth to speak out and inspire others to be involved in the planning for the future of their home city. Support WWF-Philippines, and help us #ChangeTheEnding as we build a sustainable future for all.

*Written with the help of the student facilitators of the Our City 2030 project.

Photograph © Alo Lantin / WWF-Philippines

Empowered youth is key to greener, healthier environment- Save the Children Philippines

https://www.instagram.com/p/CDyRGtsBd38/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Save the Children Philippines celebrates International Youth Day highlighting the pivotal role of the youth as important drivers of progressive solutions to the mounting climate and environmental emergencies of the world.

Alfie, 16, one of Save the Children Philippines’ beneficiaries in Cavite, shared his thoughts on climate change which is compounded by the present COVID-19 pandemic, and the role of the youth to mitigate it.

"What I want to see for the environment after COVID-19 is for people to avoid just throwing garbage anywhere, especially canals, rivers, and the sea. The sea in particular is important, because it is where we get our food like fish. So we should throw our garbage in the proper bins—whether they are biodegradable, non-biodegradable, or recyclable. A clean environment is very important especially in the time of a pandemic," said Alfie.

Many Filipino youth, like Alfie, are already aware of the environment crisis and have ideas to address them. However, the realization of their right to a healthy and safe environment continue to be disrupted as children and youth bear the worst impacts of climate emergency even though they contributed the least to it, said Atty. Alberto Muyot, Chief Executive Officer of Save the Children Philippines.

“The youth is an enabling force that can effect significant and lasting changes to the present and future global problems. Hence, we need to support and provide them the means and opportunities to reach their full potential through access to quality education, protection, health and nutrition,” said Muyot.

In line with this, Save the Children Philippines is conducting children and youth consultations on the impact of climate emergency, and provides them information on solutions such as the proper practice of recycling and reusing of materials, and the promotion of low carbon lifestyle. #TimeIsNow #RedAlertOnClimate #IYD2020

The 40-year-old child rights organization is also noted for advocating the enactment of Republic Act 10821 or the Children's Emergency Relief and Protection Act that directs national and local government agencies to implement and sustain comprehensive emergency programs to protect children, youth, pregnant and lactating mothers from disasters and emergencies.

“Save the Children Philippines remains committed to protect the rights of children and youth by providing them safe spaces and the platform to speak for their voices to be heard and considered by our policymakers,” said Muyot.

Pinoy app addressing pandemic impact won the Space Apps COVID-19 Challenge

Wazzup Pilipinas!


An integrated public policy information portal measuring the impact of the coronavirus pandemic developed by Filipinos won the Space Apps COVID-19 Challenge in the best use of data, the solution that best makes space data accessible, or leverages it to a unique application. Using Earth observation, in-country economic and human mobility data, and global infection case counts, data analysts Nick Tobia, Helen Mary Barrameda, Kristel Joyce Zapata, Theresa Rosario Tan, and Miguel Oscar Castelo from CirroLytix created a dashboard for policy makers and economic planners to show the impact of COVID-19 on various countries and effects on the economy and environment.


Named G.I.D.E.O.N. (Global Impact Detection from Emitted Light, Onset of Covid-19, and Nitrogen Dioxide), the portal uses news feeds, Google mobility data, and coronavirus cases revealing the multi-dimensional impact of lockdown and other interventions. Night lights from the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) and nitrogen dioxide levels from Sentinel-5P show current impacts and forecast effects of lockdown. Google's community mobility reports, global infection data from Johns Hopkins University, and nitrogen dioxide data reveal pollution levels produced by human activity, and monitor which countries keep air quality under control as they bounce back from lockdown and pave the way for the "new normal."


Data analysts Nick Tobia, Kristel Joyce Zapata, Theresa Rosario Tan, Miguel Oscar Castelo, and Helen Mary Barrameda from CirroLytix won the Space Apps COVID-19 Challenge.

Aside from having a global winner, two Pinoy teams made it as global finalists too.

Inspired by social isolation experienced by astronauts in space, Snail Space (A wordplay for snail's pace) is an app giving a "safe space" by providing mental care and comfort during times of social isolation brought by COVID-19 pandemic. It was developed by Celestial Snails team comprised of Arturo Caronongan III, Kevin Olanday, In Yong Lee, Mary Anne Dominique Casacop, and Gabriel Santiago from De La Salle University.


With public health in mind, Sentinellium leverages user data sent through SMS and chat, and space assets like population density, urbanization, and aerosol to provide a more accurate prediction of developing epidemics. This was done by Harlee Quizzagan, James Andrew C. Cornes, Angela Chua, Alaica Mariño, Joal Rose Lin, and Mohammad Ashraful Mobin, in which their group was formed during the hackathon period.


Pinoy global finalists Celestial Snails addressing social isolation and Sentinellium predicting developing epidemics.


"The use of these modern and advanced technologies will be crucial, especially as the world navigates the fourth industrial revolution. Using big data, cloud, and AI applications for instance, could help us understand the severity of the disease and aid in delivering measures to mitigate its impact," according to the Undersecretary for Competitiveness and Innovation of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Dr. Rafaelita "Fita" M. Aldaba. "This really fills me with great optimism that our young and talented startups and Filipinos have so much to offer and contribute to our efforts to provide solutions to address health and economic crisis," she said.


Last May 30-31, 2020, coders, entrepreneurs, scientists, designers, storytellers, makers, builders, artists, and technologists have been invited in an all-virtual, global hackathon by the United States space agency National Aeronautics Space Administration (NASA), along with the European Space Agency (ESA), Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), the National Centre for Space Studies (CNES) of France, and Canadian Space Agency (CSA). During a period of 48 hours, more than 15,000 participants from 150 countries created more than 2,000 virtual teams. Participants used Earth observation and other open data to propose solutions to one of twelve challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic.


Pinoy mentors during the hackathon.Top: Michael Lance M. Domagas, Elymar Apao, and Janyl Tamayo. Middle: Chi Señires, Aldrich Tan, and Andresito de Guzman. Bottom: Dominic Vincent Ligot.


During the virtual bootcamp one week prior to the hackathon, Ellison Castro, Cara Patricia Canlas, and Arlo Jayson Sabuito from STAMINA4Space discussed the capabilities of microsatellites in determining the height of clouds and forest fire mapping using support vector machine. During the hackathon, Aldrich Tan, Elymar Apao, Chi Señires, and Janyl Tamayo from UXPH helped participants in designing and bringing user experience to their projects. Andresito de Guzman of PWA Pilipinas taught participants on developing progressive web applications. 2019 global winner in the best use of data Dominic Vincent Ligot from the Analytics Association of the Philippines and Data Ethics PH brought inspiration by emphasizing the importance of data analytics for social good.


G.I.D.E.O.N. is one of the six global winners selected by NASA, ESA, JAXA, CSA, and CNES, and one of the three teams shall have special access to the Euro Data Cube environment. If travel is deemed safe, winners shall also be invited to visit a NASA site to view a spacecraft launch. However, travel, accommodation, and food costs are not included. Lead organizer Michael Lance M. Domagas appeals support for the current and past winners, finalists, and especially to the four-year community who worked so hard in bringing honor for the country. "After being recognized by five leading space agencies of the planet, its time for our own country to show appreciation and give support for those who are stepping forward in combating the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects in our society today to defeat our common enemy," he said.


Top: 2019 winner Dominic Vincent Ligot, Nick Tobia from G.I.D.E.O.N., and Harlee Quizzagan from Sentinellium. Bottom: Lead organizer Michael Lance M. Domagas, and Arturo Caronongan III from Celestial Snails.


Previous Pinoy hackathon winners are Project AEDES (2019), using satellite and climate data to pinpoint possible dengue hotspots, and ISDApp (2018), which uses citizen science data to inform fishermen the right time to catch fish.


The Space Apps COVID-19 Challenge is a special edition of NASA’s annual Space Apps Challenge, an international hackathon that takes place around the world and online every October. Since 2012, teams have engaged with NASA's free and open data to address real-world problems on Earth and in space. Space Apps 2019 included more than 29,000 participants in 71 countries, developing more than 2,000 hackathon solutions over one weekend. This NASA-led initiative is organized in collaboration with Booz Allen Hamilton, Mindgrub, and SecondMuse. The next annual Space Apps Challenge is scheduled for October 2-4, 2020 in a virtual format. Registration opens August 15: https://2020.spaceappschallenge.org/locations/manila

Enchanted Kingdom pays homage to the unsung heroes in the time of pandemic

Wazzup Pilipinas! The spotlight will gleam on the tireless individuals who are working above and beyond the call of duty in these challenging times as Enchanted Kingdom officially announces the opening of nominations for the 6th Enchanting Heroes of Change: You’re my Hero. This year, the premier and word-class theme park is paying tribute to these unsung heroes of today who are selflessly devoting efforts on the frontlines and continuously making positive impacts in many lives during the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. For kids ages 4-12 years old, this is your chance to show your support and give cheers to the real-life superheroes. If you know an individual, a friend or a family member that you consider a hero, nominate them by sharing a photo as well as their inspiring story. Enchanted Kingdom wants to hear about them. Terms and Conditions: Like Enchanted Kingdom’s official Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/enchantedkingdom.ph/). Nominate your hero by posting his/her photo with a description of his/her incredible deeds to the community and tell us why he/she deserves a trip to EK. Post the photo entry at EK Heroes of Change 2020: You’re My Hero FB post’s comment section Tag your hero on the post (if they have an FB account). Use the hashtags: #EKHeroesOfChange2020, #iloveEK and #EKatHome.Submission of entries is until August 28, 2020 and winners will be announced on August 31, 2020 (National Heroes Day). Five (5) chosen heroes will win three Regular Day Passes each, and the kids who submitted the winning entries will also receive two Regular Day Passes each plus a special Eldar Doll! Enchanted Kingdom is excited to read different stories of hope and inspiration from all you, EK Kids, as the invaluable services from these extraordinary people deserve honor and are worthy of celebration. For more information, visit Enchanted Kingdom’s official website and Facebook page at www.enchantedkingdom.ph and www.facebook.com/enchantedkingdom.ph or check on https://www.facebook.com/notes/enchanted-kingdom/6th-enchanting-heroes-of-change-youre-my-hero/3860612573955040/ to know the complete contest mechanics.

Operation and maintenance of the Clark International Airport

Wazzup Pilipinas!

This is to clarify the points raised in an article published by Mr. Max Sangil (Sunstar Pampanga, 2020), wherein he questioned several aspects in the operation and maintenance of the Clark International Airport (CIA).

In his article he commented that the “take over” of the airport by Luzon International Premier Airport Development (LIPAD) came at a time when the airport is already viable.

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), the Implementing Agency of the Project, has long-planned the bid out of the Operations and Maintenance (O&M) of the existing and new Clark International Airport passenger terminal, the first hybrid public-private partnership (PPP) model under the Duterte administration. It is but natural to bid it at a time when it is viable to attract more bidders and thus result in higher bids. The Project was approved by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), and the concession agreement is aboveboard.

The privatization of the O&M, a practice recognized world-wide, was aimed at building government’s asset base, and at the same time, infuse funds for the operations and maintenance of the airport, which will be an additional responsibility for government if not for the concession agreement.

With the O&M Concession Agreement, government, through the BCDA as the implementing agency, receives 18.25 percent revenue share and the 500 million pesos yearly lumpsum payment for 20 years from the bid.

Further, ownership and possession of the commercial assets developed shall be transferred to BCDA at the Termination/Transfer Date.

Thus, the terms and conditions of the O&M are favorable to the government, especially now that the country is dealing with the impact of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) on the economy.

On the issue that the oversight function of Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) was removed, the Agency’s mandate is still there through the DOTr, with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and the Office for Transportation Security (OTS). DOTr, CAAP, and OTS are in constant communication with CIAC President and Chief Executive Officer Aaron Aquino, explaining therein the background and rationale for such arrangements.

Let it be clear that the safety, security, and oversight functions shall not be waived by the government. Safety will be handled by CAAP, while Security will be handled by OTS.

It is unfortunate that Mr. Sangil chose to publish his article when the current administration’s plan is about to be realized with the opening of the Clark International Airport PTB 2 next year. This will greatly benefit the people of Pampanga and its neighboring provinces due to its multiplier effects. We cannot help but question Mr. Sangil’s motive, especially now that the progress envisioned for the Agency and the airport he once served is on the horizon.

United City Football Club (UCFC) caps its full roster with Anthony Pinthus

Wazzup Pilipinas!

United City Football Club (UCFC) caps its full roster announcement, ahead of the FIFA transfer window deadline this week, with the signing of 22-year old Fil-Swiss goalkeeper — Anthony Pinthus from the Azkals Development Team (ADT), who also served as a goalkeeper for the Philippine Under-23 National Men's Football Team, during the 30th South East Asian Games (SEA Games) campaign.


Prior to his ADT stint, Pinthus was also affiliated with clubs such as FC Kosova, FC Wohlen, and GC Zurich U21.

According to UCFC co-founder Eric Gottschalk, “True to our mission of developing young players, we have signed Antony Pinthus, on loan from ADT. This was also agreed on by both clubs and supported by Philippines National Head Coach Scott Cooper, to expose Pinthus to the AFC Cup competition. “

“He is the most promising goalkeeper of the Philippines after Neil and Roland and we are happy that he decided to join us for this season, as we believe that UCFC is the right platform to expose him to top Asian football, while learning from our veterans such as Stephan Schroeck and Bienve Maranon.”

Gottschalk continues, “The signing of Pinthus marks the completion of the roster ahead of the transfer window deadline this week. As for the position of Head Coach, we have prepared a shortlist of a number of highly qualified individuals and we will make an announcement in due time.”

Pinthus joins the roster, along with Stephan Shrock, OJ Porteria, Sean Patrick Kane, Ron Bayan, Jun Badelic, Angelo Marasigan, Robert Mendy, Arnie Pasinabo, Tristan Robles, Dennis Villanueva, Joshua Dutosme, Takashi Odawara, Hikaru Minegishi, Bienvenido Maranon, Mike Ott, Manuel Ott, Pocholo Bugas, Jordan Jarvis, Jorrel Aristorenas, and Jose Miguel Clarino.

TaskUs: First BPO to Announce WFH Until End of 2020

Wazzup Pilipinas!

TaskUs, a leading next-generation provider of customer experience and content moderation, continues to put its people’s health and safety first as it announces the extension of work-from-home (WFH) through the end of 2020 through a video posted on its Facebook page.

As soon as President Duterte imposed an Enhanced Community Quarantine over the entire Luzon on March 16, TaskUs Philippines immediately shifted to WFH while other companies remained business-as-usual. Bryce Maddock, TaskUs CEO and co-founder, said the decision to transition and stay WFH is part of their frontline-first culture.

“We want our employees to earn a living, but we also want to make sure they are safe,” Maddock shared. “Unless a critical program requires on-site support, we are going to stay WFH until the end of 2020 for all TaskUs sites except Taiwan since their government did not impose any lockdowns. This decision provides our Teammates with the ability to plan their lives between now and the end of the year. Our employees remain our top priority,” he added.

However, there are some exemptions. Less than 3% of TaskUs Philippines’ workforce may still be asked to return on-site due to security or technical requirements. The company has made additional investments to ensure expanded safety measures and protocols are in place to further safeguard people’s health.

“I think this pandemic has served a lesson not only to the BPO industry but to all industries. At TaskUs, COVID-19 was a chance to live by our core value and prove that we truly put our #PeopleBeforeProfits,” Maddock stated.

TaskUs has over 15,000 employees in the Philippines with sites located in Quezon City, BGC, Rizal, Bulacan, Cavite, Batangas, Clark, La Union, and Bohol.

To know more about TaskUs, visit its social media pages @TaskUsPH or www.taskus.com.

#SaferNowPH Webinar on Biomedical HIV Prevention Methods

Wazzup Pilipinas!

In celebration of the community-led 2020 Philippine National HIV Prevention Month (NHPM), the #SaferNowPH campaign will hold a webinar on biomedical prevention methods on August 15, 2020, at 5:00 PM.

Utilizing the Philippine NHPM social media pages @HIVPrevMonthPH, the webinar will tackle the prophylactic medicines for HIV, including Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP

PrEP is a daily medicine that prevents people, especially those at risk, from acquiring HIV. If taken correctly and consistently, PrEP can provide up to 99% protection.

PEP, on the other hand, is an emergency medicine taken immediately within 72 hours after a possible HIV exposure and continued for 28 days to reduce the risk of HIV infection by over 80%.

Learn more about these innovative HIV prevention methods with guest HIV physicians: Dr. Patrick Eustaquio of LoveYourself, Inc. and Dr. Kate Leyritana of Sustained Health Initiatives of the Philippines (SHIP) during the PrEP and PEP day celebration for NHPM 2020. The doctors will be discussing the effectiveness, safety, access to, and administration of these HIV preventive medicines.

Additionally, industry experts from the HIV community and service providers are invited to entertain inquiries about each method. HIV experts include Danvic Rosadiño, the lead convenor Kalasag PrEP Network, Dr. Mary Ann Joy Aguadera, the HUB chair at Manila Doctor’s Hospital, and Kenneth Samaco, HIV consultant of the World Health Organization Philippines.

This year is the first-ever holding of the Philippine NHPM, which was kicked-off last July 31. To be celebrated every July of each year, the NHPM is an initiative aligned with Presidential Proclamation No. 971, signed last June 23, declaring the second week of July as Infection Prevention and Control Week.

This year’s NHPM theme is “SaferNow,” which promotes the HIV combination prevention methods, including condoms and lubricants, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), and antiretroviral treatment as prevention (TasP). The “SaferNow” campaign has a series of online activities scheduled during the month-long celebration:

• July 31 – Kick-Off and Launch

• August 8 – Condoms and Lube Day

• August 15 – PrEP and PEP Day

• August 22 – Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U) Day

• August 29 – Culmination Activity

This intensified effort is also in response to the DOH’s report of 2,818 newly diagnosed Filipinos with HIV from January to March 2020. The age group of 25-34 year-olds has the highest incidence with 1,359, followed by 15-24 year-olds with 834.

The NHPM is spearheaded by the Global Fund Sustainability of HIV Services for Key Populations in Asia (SKPA) Program and CHAMPION Community Centers network; co-presented by AIDS Healthcare Foundation; sponsored by Rotary Club of Cubao Quezon City District 3780; also brought to you by Durex, Lauvette, 3M, Bliss Four, LUBIE, ChloRelief, Usana Philippines, EZ Lubricating Jelly, Premiere Condoms, Liquor Bouquet Philippines; and supported by UNAIDS Philippines, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations, APCOM, and LoveYourself, Inc.

Community-based organizations around the country offering HIV-related services will conduct parallel activities to support this national event.

Yes, chef! WWF-Philippines’ new home cooking series puts sustainability into practice in our own kitchens

Wazzup Pilipinas!

In an effort to promote sustainable food consumption and production, as well as fundraise for its partner communities, World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines is set to launch its latest online initiative this August 16 entitled Kawali-Kasan: A Sustainable Home Cooking Series.

With home-based activities like cooking and baking becoming a popular hobby during the quarantine period, the series will feature the country’s top celebrity chefs and cooking personalities, who will share their delicious, nutritious, and eco-friendly recipes for the audience to try.

Kate Dychangco-Anzani, who is among the first batch of chefs and personalities to share their cooking expertise, highlighted the importance of practicing sustainability in the food industry, sharing her experience as a successful restaurateur for the Anzani Restaurant Group. 

“The pandemic has changed how we see the world. We are in the food industry - and to go back to basics, especially supporting those who support us is a reality. The farmer community supports our industry. The core of restaurants and the very foundation of a restaurant is fresh ingredients and produce,” said Anzani. “Supporting local is the most visible solution moving forward. And you live by example. Hopefully those around you and the people that surround you get influenced by the life you live. Everything starts at home - you need to live the walk.”

Also joining the first wave of the series is reality TV chef JR Royol who shared the same sentiments about the significance of personally observing sustainable habits in one’s everyday life.

“It is actually a privilege to be part of this great initiative. Being a chef, it's a natural response to an opportunity to have a positive impact in any way we can. Sharing my skills to raise funds and awareness is the least that I can do. Realistically speaking, we should start (living sustainably) in our homes and workplace since these are the areas that we can change in real time by consciously adapting to environment-friendly best practices,” the MasterChef Pinoy Edition winner quips.

He also encouraged people to immediately shift to a more sustainable lifestyle to help #ChangeTheEnding for the environment.

“We should act now! We can and we have the courage to summon necessary strength to positively impact our surroundings. We start with the simplest and mundane things. It doesn’t have to be grand gestures—just consistent, conscious practices for conservation and preservation to be established.”

Kawali-Kasan: A Sustainable Home Cooking Series is set to run until October 2020. Visit WWF-Philippines’ official social media pages for further announcements for the succeeding line-ups and to know more about how you can help those in the forefront of environmental conservation.

Amid community lockdown, the postman still delivers

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Knowing how essential mails and packages are, Bert, a postal worker assigned at the Manila Central Post Office says that inspite of the danger of being infected with the virus they are doing their best to move the mail to the satisfaction of the mailing public.

Amid the much stricter modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ), minimal workforce was allowed to work on-site in gov’t agencies including PHLPost to ensure continuous delivery of services while observing community quarantine guidelines.

“Wala pong transportasyon, malinis ang kalsada, at parang ghost town ang paligid habang ginagawa namin ang aming delivery”, the Postman said in Filipino. (There are no public transportation, streets are empty, and the places look like a ghost town during our delivery).

The Postman along with their ever reliable motorcycles would be perfect to provide relief in delivering mails to pensioners, e-commerce parcels and sss calamity loan checks in the metropolis.

With very limited air and sea conveyance, the post office encounters difficulty in bringing the mails in and out of the country. That is why there were delays in the delivery of mails, vital supplies and important documents.

According to the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost), their workers are on the frontlines of the coronavirus. They are essential in keeping the public afloat during these extraordinary times of a lockdown.

“We are asking the public to bear with us during these difficult situations”, says Assistant Postmaster General for Operations Joel Zamudio.

"Now more than ever, we are careful to avoid possible health problems among our employees. We are regularly sanitizing the mails and disinfecting our facilities for the safety of our clients, following the health and safety protocols of the government”, he added.

We are also fixing the old annex building at the iconic Manila Central Post Office to house the new medical and quarantine facility for our workers in Metro Manila", Postmaster General Joel Otarra said.

Post Offices in the country are open daily (Monday to Friday) to accept and deliver mails and packages, postal id capturing and Bayad Center payment facility.

PHLPost has partnered with Bayad Center for the public to conveniently transact the payment of utilities especially to those who cannot leave their homes due to the lockdown. The postman may pick up their payments with corresponding acknowledgement receipts after which a return receipt will be delivered to clients after transactions.

PHLPost is now focusing on the supply chain and the last-mile delivery of essential services as well as the provision of basic postal and financial services.

With many unable to leave their homes, the friendly postman may be the most important guy to turn to, risking their lives to ensure that essential services reach their doorsteps.