Government agencies join hands in restoration of Cagayan River after Typhoon Ulysses; Build Back Better Task Force starts dredging, bamboo planting

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The promise of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to normalize the lives of Cagayan residents and those in nearby provinces after the onslaught of Typhoon Ulysses was further realized as government agencies pooled resources to restore the Cagayan River.

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade joined Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Roy Cimatu, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Mark Villar, and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Silvestre Bello III in launching the Cagayan River Restoration project in Lal-lo, Cagayan on Tuesday, 2 February 2021.

The river restoration work is an effort of the 'Build Back Better' (BBB) Task Force which is composed of officials from the DENR, DPWH, DOLE, and the DOTr.

Assisting the task force is the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the local government units of Cagayan Region. The restoration work involves the dredging of the Cagayan River, as a solution to the flooding woes in the Cagayan Valley area, as well as the planting of bamboo, which will not only help stabilize the riverbanks but will also create livelihood for residents, who were displaced by flooding.

Secretary Tugade said the rehabilitation initiative fulfills the promise of President Duterte to the people of Cagayan during his visit in November.

“Kaya nga ‘ho nandirito kami ngayon upang pasinayaan at bigyang katotohanan ang mandato ng Pangulo sa aming apat - to help rebuild Cagayan, to help bring back hope and restore the beauty and glorious past of Cagayan,” Secretary Tugade said.

The Transportation Chief added that aside from the dredging of the Cagayan River, the planting of bamboo will help the residents earn a living over the next few years.

“Kaya nga ba’t i-dredge [ang ilog], kaya nga ba’t magtanim ka ng kawayan, kaya nga ba’t magbigay ka ng kabuhayan, ‘pagkat gusto naming bigyang-katuparan ang pangako ng ating mahal na Pangulo,” Secretary Tugade added.

During the event, Secretaries Tugade and Bello also announced the granting of a P30 million livelihood assistance for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in the region who were affected by Ulysses.

In January, the two Secretaries distributed fiberglass motorized bancas to 100 fishermen in Claveria, Cagayan and “Negosyo Karts” franchises to 100 ambulant vendor-beneficiaries in Ilagan, Isabela.

Secretary Villar meanwhile assured residents that the government is working as a whole to solve the issue of flooding in the Cagayan region. Focus of the restoration work is the dredging of some 7 million cubic meters of sand from 19 sandbars on the river that cover 235 hectares.

He said dredging of the Cagayan River is only a short-term solution, with the long-term solution involving the construction of diversion channels. Secretary Villar has assured that the diversion channels, as well as other infrastructure projects in Cagayan will be finished before President Rodrigo Duterte ends his term.

“Asahan n’yo po na full support ang DPWH sa ating mga infrastructure programs sa Cagayan,” Secretary Villar, also Vice Chairman of the BBB Task Force, stressed.

For his part, Secretary Cimatu, who serves as chairman of the ‘Build Back Better’ Task Force, highlighted that the government is giving priority to the dredging of the Cagayan River.

“Today we are here on a mission, to reduce the perennial flooding in the region of Cagayan Valley. Our government is taking the matter seriously. The equipment and assets of the government are now ready to start the mission,” the DENR Secretary said.

Dredging equipment from the DPWH have been positioned in the priority areas of Lal-lo, Casicallan Norte and Gattaran, Secretary Cimatu said.

Investing on an Indoor Hydroponics Solution from Green Armor Hydroponics

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Investing on a system that promotes Sustainable Living by growing our own food literally in the comfort of our own homes using the solution from GreenArmor Hydroponics

We don't really need to save on money, properties and material stuff, since it will be useless in situations when currency is no longer accepted (like a zombie apocalypse, or a global pandemic much worst than what we're experiencing right now...lol) to get through a survival of the fittest, and most equipped to grow and harvest their own crops, ...

Seriously, I'm doing this to find solutions that works for urban families with homes having very little access to extra land so they do container gardening, but still with limitations. It's our current condition so I'm speaking by experience. Envious of those with bigger properties that they could allocates space for their vegetable garden or mini farm. 

You could actually make this system work this even without electricity via Kratky method, or introduce the addition of solar panels, to store power on batteries to power up the pump that circulates the water and the LED grow lights that simulates sunlight. The grow lights are to be used starting when seedlings have sprouted.

The nutrient solution could also be replicated naturally with organic alternatives. There are many commercial alternatives but our goal should be finding alternatives whose ingredients are easily accessible. 

It's very easy to assemble and convenient as a growing medium that would fit fine at any small space within our homes. Electricity cost is minimal, and planting is so easy as you just drop the seeds in the LECA balls and wait for germination until harvest time. Especially for leafy veggies like lettuces, pechay, mustasa, that only takes roughly a month to harvest. 

Probably the only thing you'll have to do is replenish the water and nutrient solution where the setup conveniently came equipped with ways to effortlessly check.

Expecting a bountiful harvest of kale, arugula and lettuces soon from the indoor hydroponics setup so I'll post another blog after a month or so.

Radisson Collection launches in China, introducing its premium lifestyle concept to Asia Pacific’s gateway city

Wazzup Pilipinas?!

Radisson Collection, Radisson Hotel Group’s anthology of premium lifestyle hotels, has reached another major milestone with the official debut of Radisson Collection Hotel, Xing Guo Shanghai, this exceptional brand’s inaugural property in China and its first hotel in an Asia Pacific gateway city.

With iconic properties in inspiring locations all around the world, Radisson Collection gives guests immediate access to the authentic essence of their destination, in terms of art, design, culture and cuisine. No two hotels are the same and each reflects the rich character of its locale. With original design and insider encounters, Radisson Collection goes above and beyond to deliver extraordinary experiences.

Hotels are located in some of the world’s most exciting and eclectic destinations, including Brussels, London, Rome, Copenhagen and Moscow, with future locations set to include Paris, Milan, Cairo, Budapest, Venice, Sri Lanka and Queenstown in New Zealand. Wherever they choose, savvy travelers can discover personalized hospitality, intuitive service and thoughtful touches, in tune with the tempo of their neighborhood.

Radisson Collection Hotel, Xing Guo Shanghai is the perfect addition to this curated collection. Nestled within 17 acres of manicured gardens, surrounded by historical villas, 1930s Art Deco buildings and picturesque tree-lined avenues, this is an enchanting urban oasis amid the bustle of Xujiahui, Shanghai’s dynamic downtown business district.

A sense of serenity and sophistication pervades the entire 16-story hotel. The 185 rooms and suites (ranging from 30 to 54 m2) are designed to be spacious sanctuaries of comfort and wellness, with cutting-edge solutions such as air purification systems and smart room sensors, and even robots that deliver fresh fruit juice straight to the door! Unique to the hotel, the 12th floor is reserved for female guests; each room on this level is equipped with special amenities and a Dyson Supersonic™ blow-dryer, and the Madam Li Lounge is a haven of high-quality hospitality for discerning female travelers.

Innovative and locally inspired cuisine can be enjoyed at a choice of four restaurants and bars, including an award-winning Chinese restaurant that focuses on Cantonese cuisine and Shanghainese specialties, and a chic lounge for handcrafted cocktails and fine wines. The top floor Executive Lounge is an exclusive space with 270-degree city views. Engaging events can be hosted at a choice of eight venues, including a ballroom and pavilion, and the fitness center features state-of-the-art equipment.

“It gives us great pleasure to launch our inaugural Radisson Collection hotel Shanghai, China, a prime destination for business and leisure. This marks another milestone as we expand and project the brand’s robust growth in the region, further showcasing the Group’s strong commitment to China. Radisson Collection Hotel, Xing Guo Shanghai will be an outstanding addition to this expanding collection of iconic lifestyle hotels,” said Katerina Giannouka, President, Asia Pacific, Radisson Hotel Group.

“Radisson Collection is the home of distinctive hotels and resorts that are united by their uniqueness, and their ability to bring out the exceptional of their community. This rapidly growing brand is suited to the world’s most storied cities, such as Shanghai, where a sense of history and romance enlivens every stay. We look forwarding to immersing guests in the sounds, sights, flavors and experiences of the hotel’s unique location. Radisson Hotel Group has worked with the hotel’s owners, Dong Hu Group, for more than 20 years and we are delighted to continue our journey together,” added Gary Ye, Vice President, Operations, China.

More than ever, Radisson Hotel Group’s highest priorities remain the health and safety of its guests and employees. The Group partnered with SGS, the world’s leading inspection and certification company, to implement the Radisson Hotels Safety Protocol, which ensures the highest hygiene standards and strengthens the Group’s existing rigorous sanitation and social distancing guidelines. Radisson Collection Hotel, Xing Guo Shanghai has already achieved its HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) certification and premium certification from Safehotels.


Radisson Collection Hotel, Xing Guo Shanghai becomes the collection’s first member in China, and will be joined by a second in Q2, 2021 when the newly built Radisson Collection Resort, Nanjing opens its doors.

FDCP to Stage 5th Film Ambassadors’ Night Online in Support of National Arts Month

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Despite the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, Philippine Cinema was still able to gain various accolades in the global arena in 2020.

 

The Filipino filmmakers, actors, and films that received international recognitions from established film festivals and award-giving bodies over the past year will be honored in the 5th Film Ambassadors’ Night (FAN).

 

In support of National Arts Month of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) will hold this year’s FAN online on February 28. It is supported by the Cultural Center of the Philippines through the participation of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra.

 

The FAN is an annual gathering since 2017 organized by the FDCP that recognizes filmmakers whose international victories have brought honor to the country. Due to persisting restrictions brought about by the COVID-19 crisis, the FAN will be streamed live on the FDCP’s Facebook pages and YouTube Channel.

FDCP Chairperson and CEO Liza Diño remarked, “We laud the honorees for their artistry and perseverance, and these were not hindered even when the global cinema industry suffered so much. Our filmmakers still managed to put the spotlight on Philippine Cinema amid the pandemic, and for that we are grateful.”

 

She continued, “We are also humbled and honored because of the FDCP’s collaborations with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and Cultural Center of the Philippines for the first-ever virtual FAN. This shows how much the government values our filmmakers and the rest of the country’s artists.”

 

The FAN has recognized more than 266 filmmakers in four editions. In 2020, the A-List Winners roster, pertaining to those won in A-List international film festivals, included “Verdict” by Raymund Ribay Gutierrez which won the Special Jury Prize in the Horizons (Orizzonti) section of the Venice International Film Festival in Italy.

 

The other A-List Winners were “Mindanao” director Brillante Mendoza who won for Best Artistic Contribution at the Cairo International Film Festival in Egypt, “Mindanao” lead Judy Ann Santos who was the Cairo Best Actress, “Aswang” by Alyx Ayn Arumpac which won the FIPRESCI Prize in the International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA) in the Netherlands, and Jun Robles Lana who won Best Director for “Kalel, 15” at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival in Estonia.

Apart from recognizing the country’s international award winners of the past year, the FDCP also bestows during the FAN its highest honor called the Camera Obscura Artistic Excellence Award for icons, trailblazers, and legends.

The Camera Obscura Award recipients in 2020 were Cathy Garcia-Molina for being the highest-grossing Filipino Film director, Nick Deocampo for being the vanguard of Filipino film history and education, and Ricky Lee for being an awarded scriptwriter and dedicated mentor to the next generation of scriptwriters.

 

On February 28, a new batch of Filipino film ambassadors will be duly recognized to be led by the Camera Obscura Awardees and A-Listers. Among the other FAN categories are Short Films, Documentaries, Technical Awards, Acting Awards, and Feature Films. 

Making Martial Arts a Part of Everyday Life: The Physical and Mental Benefits of Training According to Team Lakay

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Over the past few years, people all across the globe have increasingly turned to martial arts as their primary fitness option. It’s no longer just a sport, but also a viable alternative to traditional gym.

In fact, some of the greatest martial artists in the world can attest to the very many benefits martial arts has on human life.

Reigning ONE Strawweight World Champion Joshua “The Passion” Pacio and former ONE Flyweight World Champion Geje “Gravity” Eustaquio, both members of the famed Team Lakay of Baguio City, Philippines, can say with confidence that martial arts has had a positive effect on their lives.

“Learning martial arts has molded me into a better person. I was a very different Joshua Pacio 15 years ago, before I took up martial arts. And this is because of the core values that martial arts taught me, and of course, because of the people who guided me on my journey,” said Pacio.

“Martial arts principles help us in our everyday lives with how we approach people and relationships. It teaches us to apply discipline in all aspects of our lives, and of course, self-control mentally, physically, and emotionally.”

Today, Pacio is one of the most talented martial artists in the industry. He’s reached the pinnacle of the sport through hard work and dedication to his craft. Because martial arts improved not just his professional career, but also his personal life, Pacio urges everyone to practice martial arts.

“Some people may have the misconception that MMA is a brutal sport. But believe me, it will change your life. When you take up martial arts, you learn it’s not just about punching and kicking. That’s just part of it. The lessons go deeper than that. Martial arts will make you a better version of yourself,” said Pacio.

“The main thing for me is developing self-discipline. When you have self-discipline, everything else follows. It will reflect in your attitude and work ethic. In the famous words of Kung Fu Panda, ‘there is no secret ingredient, it’s just you.’ This means everything is up to you. So just enjoy what you’re doing, and don’t quit. When you get tired, take a rest, and then go again. Just don’t quit.”

Eustaquio, on the other hand, notes how martial arts is a holistic fitness undertaking, one that unites the mind, body, and spirit. He shares the same sentiments as his younger teammate.

“Martial arts has played a very big role in my life. It has gotten me through some difficult times. There are times that I get frustrated with different things, but I just go to the gym, sweat it out and leave the gym free-spirited after,” said Eustaquio,

“You learn something new everyday. Last year, it helped me to become more mentally tough during the pandemic. I was constantly motivated and found different ways to stay active. When the mind is healthy, the body is healthy, and the spirit is healthy. Martial arts is my way of life.”

“Martial arts taught me that nothing is impossible,” Eustaquio concluded.


ONE Championship returns this Friday night, 5 February with ONE: UNBREAKABLE III, a previously recorded event from the Singapore Indoor Stadium in Singapore. In the main event, former ONE Atomweight Kickboxing and Muay Thai World Champion Stamp Fairtex continues on her quest for a historic third world title. She puts her unblemished professional MMA record on the line against Ukrainian grappler Alyona Rassohyna.

122nd anniversary of the First Shot of Philippine-American War

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), in coordination with the City of Manila and other national and local government agencies will conduct a simple program commemorating the 122nd anniversary of the First Shot of Philippine-American War on 4 February 2021, 8:00 a.m., at Sociego St. cor. Silencio St., Sampaloc, Manila.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will conduct the ceremonial singing of the National Anthem and the wreath-laying activity. The program will be led by Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) Administrator Ernesto G. Carolina, ACT Teachers Party List Congresswoman France L. Castro, National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) Executive Director Restituto L. Aguilar, former representative Antonio Tinio, and Barangay 586 Chairman Danilo B. Tibay.

The NHCP is the national government agency mandated to promote and preserve Philippine historical heritage through research and publication, conservation, marking of historic sites and structures, and administration of national shrines and museums.


WHAT: 122ND ANNIVERSARY OF THE FIRST SHOT OF THE PHILIPPINE-AMERICAN WAR

WHEN: FEBRUARY 4, 2021 | THURSDAY | 08:00 AM

WHERE: Sociego St. cor. Silencio St., Sampaloc, Manila

Be reunited in love on Valentine's Day at Sheraton Manila Bay

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Romantic revelers may be socially distanced but love transcends at Sheraton Manila Bay as we prepare an array of dining offers that will allow couples, families, and friends to be #ReunitedInLove safely and intimately this Valentine season.

On February 13 and 14, Sheraton Manila Bay’s scenic Pacific Lounge offers a dinner-for-two with the view of the glistening Manila skyline with the “Reunited In Love Valentine’s Day Dinner” for only Php 1,880 net per person. The sumptuous 5-course set menu features sea scallops and foie gras, sauce sauterne, mesclun en habit vert, vol-au-vent d’escargot bourguignonne for the starter and seafood terrine, lobster bisque, rouille, super country bread for the soup. Cleanse the palette with calamansi sorbet with tanqueray gin and then indulge in a duo slow braised beef shoulder and lamb rack noisette à la forestiere, garlic potato galette, baby tomato confit, beef jus, green pea emulsion for the main course. Cap off the meal with a trio of Irish baileys chocolate mellow, raspberry mille-feuille, orange mouse on sable tart, french macaron, and fresh mango for dessert. Complimentary coffee tea and Mignardise is served après-dinner. Diners will also take home a sweet and savory treat of Valentine Grazing Box filled with homemade chicken liver, pate, salted crackers, deli meat, cheeses, nuts, lavosh, crudités, and red grapes.

Relax in the comfort of a safe and open space with an elevated dining experience that you can avail of “Exclusively Yours” for a night. Sheraton Manila Bay’s Garden and Gazebo located on the 21st floor offers a spacious and open-air garden with the view of the night sky, ideal for private celebrations, proposals, or an intimate Valentine. For only Php 9,888++ for 2 persons, guests can have the exclusive use of the Garden and Gazebo with a 5-course set dinner with a glass of Rothbury Estate Shiraz & Cabernet Sauvignon or Chardonnay.

Meanwhile, guests who wish to celebrate at home or someplace sentimental may bring the romance of fine-dining wherever, whenever they fancy with the "Love Picnic-To-Go" inclusive of a classic picnic-hamper filled with 3-course takeaway dinner for 2 persons, valentines grazing box, and homemade super country baguette for only Php 2,188 net. Upgrade your love picnic basket with a bottle of red or white wine for only Php 2,488 net. For full menu, please visit bit.ly/ccmnlsb

Reservation is required. Social distancing and health and safety precautions are strictly implemented. A No Face Mask and Face Shield, No Entry policy is observed. For table reservations, please call +632 5318 0788, 09175837294, 09175837326 or email sh.mnlsb.fnb@sheraton.com.

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.

ePLDT recognized as Retail Partner of the Year by Fortinet Philippines

Wazzup Pilipinas!

ePLDT Inc., the ICT arm of PLDT Enterprise, has recently received the Retail Partner of the Year Award from Fortinet—a global leader in broad, integrated and automated cybersecurity solutions—during its Year End Thanksgiving for Partners last month.

ePLDT and Fortinet have cultivated a strategic partnership and currently continue to work on building Fortinet capabilities through Fortinet’s Network Security Expert certification program to better support its projects. Together, the two companies have jointly closed deals with multiple leading brands in the retail industry.

“It is an honor for us at ePLDT to be given recognition by global leader Fortinet. This award reiterates our commitment to strengthen our partnerships in order to offer the best solutions to our customers, aligned with the group’s mission of making a positive impact on every single business,” said Jovy Hernandez, ePLDT President & CEO and SVP & Head for PLDT and Smart Enterprise Business Groups.

PLDT Enterprise has consistently been developing digital technologies to equip businesses in different industries tread the changing business landscape. “We at PLDT Enterprise are committed in supporting the digital transformation journey of enterprises in the country, and having a strategic partner such as Fortinet allows us to sustain this endeavor. We are thankful for this recognition and together we aim to further enable multiple industries in the country,” said said Jojo Gendrano, FVP & Head of PLDT Enterprise Core Business.

Louie Castaneda, Fortinet Philippines Country Manager has lauded ePLDT in receiving the Retail Partner of the Year Award, stating that “we at Fortinet extend our congratulations and gratitude to ePLDT for its dedication and resolve in contributing significantly especially to the retail segment of their business, with their efforts deserving this special recognition.”

To learn more, visit epldt.com.

We Deserve an Atty Chel Diokno in the government

Wazzup Pilipinas!

We deserve an Atty. Chel Diokno in public office. Sayang at Hindi siya Manali nilang Senator.

Listening to Atty. Chel Diokno now and thinking about the statements of Bato, Go, Revilla, Lapis, Pacquiao, Marcos, etc., makes me realize how broken our country is - when brilliant minds who belong to the Senate are beaten by idiots.  

One Chel Diokno > Pacquiao, Revilla, Lapid, Dela Rosa, Go, Marcos, etc.

Chel Diokno has the BIG BRAIN and the HEART for the Filipinos. 

He deserves a Senate or higher position in the national government to put us forward and not behind like what other in position is doing. Kudos Atty. Chel Diokno. We are with you on this! Keep fighting!

I feel sorry for the choice(s) Filipinos made when it comes to electing their leaders....or is that really the case?

They were not beaten!! Diokno et al were victims of the 7hr glitch.

The election was rigged!!!. Unless talagang utak munggo karamihan sa ating voters. I refuse to accept the latter.

The latter might actually be plausible but "utak munggo" might not be the right term. Those who live below the poverty line don't know any better. Sila rin yung mas nadadali sa vote buying. Konti lang talaga yung educated voters sa PH.

I agree that I used the wrong term in general. However, we also see a lot of people who live comfy life who truly believe the BS that we get from this admin. I won’t go far, I have family members who holds degrees both baccalaureate and post who voted for the clowns.

Ayaw ng DDS ng marunong at may integrity. Sawa na raw sa mga disenteng Dilawan. But when you elect clowns, expect a circus...

Pinoys are instinctively gamblers and basically bandwagoners.

Kung saan llamado, doon tumataya.

Kaya mga bobo at estupido, basta kilala at maingay, nananalo sa senado at kongreso. At minsan sa palasyo.

May mga botante pa rin hindi masyadong maalam sa mga politika kung magtatanong ka sa kanila ang isasagot nila ay kung sino ang sikat sapagkat ang tangi nilang inaalala ay ang mamakakain sa araw araw. In short konti lang ang mga botante na alam kung sino ang karapat dapat.

Are our elected officials is a clear reflection of the voting majority’s preference!? Or we just don't really care? So we vote for the most popular and hoping the majority knows best? Most of them ibinoboto yung mga matutunog na pangalan. Ang hirap tanggapin! 

It made me think also how majority of Filipinos are “illiterate” in terms of choosing their leaders. Im afraid it could be a chain that will rotten the Nation. God save the Philippines.

These politicians are actually wise because they know the general Filipinos. They were able to manipulate and influence many Filipinos. Kaya nga feeling ko hinahayaan ng mga politiko na hindi lumawak and umunlad ang pag-iisip ng mga tao para madali pa rin silang mapanghawakan.

Ayaw nila sa edukado gusto daw nila iyong barubal kung magsalita kasi iyon ang totoo at walang plastik. Oh anyare sa bansa natin? Naging CIRCUS kasi CLOWN ang mga naupo.

I always believe that God gave us the free will to discern so we need to take actions instead of leaving it all to Him. 

"Sayang" can not even express how big of a miss it was for our nation to lose a seat for Attys Chel in the senate room. Ginto na naging BATO pa #PunIntended

Di ba sayang yung Senate slots.. nasaan na yung brightest minds magdedebate about laws, etc.

We really need to step up efforts to educate our voters. Voting really is the most potent way that we can influence our government. Substandard voters = Substandard leaders.

Blame the voters. Naabutan lang eh pinagpalit ang utak.

The Philippines really fucked up after 2016 because the system is stacked against meritocracy and rewards corruption.

When we have an empowered citizenry. IDK when this will happen though....Or at least an engaged one.

Atty. Chel's letter  should inspire the next generation to be a lawyer. His arguments before the Supreme Court earlier today just made me fired up to be a defender of the rule of law and justice. His shrewdness (in the argument) is totally uplifting.

I admire Atty Chel Diokno on the way he responds to Justice Bernabe by citing a Supreme Court case that she penned. It reminded me sa scene sa How to Get Away with Murder, where Annalise Keating filed a classs action law suit against sa justice system sa Pennsylvania. 

What Makes Motorcycles Fun? You Get A Lot of Friends!

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The "new normal" provided people ways to continue accomplishing daily tasks and stay in touch with loved ones even amid the pandemic. Thanks to digital tools, such as video conferencing, people had a sense of human interaction, despite being physically distant.

But since no man is an island, face-to-face interactions remain inevitable. For Honda Philippines Inc. (HPI), the No.1 motorcycle manufacturer in the Philippines, motorcycles are among the many "new normal" tools that safely bring people together.

Motorcycles became essential tools in the "new normal" as they serve as a mode of transportation. They also make traveling during the quarantine conveniently and safely. Another benefit a motorcycle gives to riders is meeting new people and building camaraderie amid these difficult times. HPI shows us some of these instances, where connections between motorcycle riders helped themselves and the community. 

Motorcycle Clubs

The number of motorcycle riders in the country started to grow through the years, consequently developing numerous motorcycle clubs in different parts of the country. These clubs helped riders share tips and tricks for their rides, build relationships through their shared love for motorcycles, and surprisingly help communities through charity.

Despite the pandemic's restrictions, motorcycles helped riders build a sense of community without worrying about getting sick since their safety gear also protects them from possible contact from the virus and the motorcycle's ability to distance itself from others.

Motorcycle riding can allow people to safely ride solo, but it can also give them various riding buddies to help them through thick and thin. Just because you are riding solo does not mean you have to go through every hardship alone.


Social Media

Delivery couriers from food delivery apps and e-commerce websites gave people staying at home the convenience of having their daily needs without going out and risking their own safety. And since the start of the quarantine, motorcycle riders started providing their services to people without access to these delivery apps and websites.

Social media became a tool for motorcycle riders through groups like Bayanihan groups and buy-n-sell pages to help local microbusinesses deliver homemade food or sell other items and people needing to get certain essentials like milk for babies or products purchased online that needs to be picked up.

Riders become go-to couriers for people in need of couriers, which further widens their connections and relationships. Social media also helps them stay in touch with other riders since motorcycle groups began developing online for updates, meetups, and charity work.

Before the pandemic, HPI used to hold Riders’ Conventions around the country, but since it is not recommended today, riders can join motorcycle clubs like Honda Genio Club of the Philippines, Honda Supra GTR150 Philippines, Honda AirBlade150 Team Red, AirBlade Riders Club Philippines, Inc. and other local Honda clubs around you. The company recognizes the importance of motorcycles in people's lives as an investment and as an instrument to help each other and further grow the community, especially during these times of uncertainty.

HPI has dedicated its services to create a wide array of motorcycles for every Filipino. This is in line with the company's "ONE DREAM" campaign, which aims to fulfill their dream through the joy of mobility provided by motorcycles.



Explore more from Honda and its wide array of motorcycles. For more details about Honda products and promos, visit our website at www.hondaph.com and follow us on Facebook, Honda Philippines, Inc., and Instagram, @hondaph_mc. You can also contact us through our landline number, (02)-8581-6700 to 6799, and mobile number, 0917-884-6632.

More than 10,000 Students and Public Officials Nationwide Upskilled on Digital Resilience During Microsoft Public Sector ICT Summit: Asenso Pilipinas

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Over 10,000 public officials and students across the Philippines participated today in Microsoft Philippines’ largest-ever public sector cloud summit to date, "Asenso Pilipinas: Building Digital Resilience”.

Today’s gathering aimed to enable stakeholders across the Philippine government and broader public sector to accelerate digital transformation on a national scale. These support the Philippine government’s ambitions to reignite economic growth in 2021 and beyond and return the Philippines to the ranks of high growth developing economies.

"We confront the same challenges in 2021 that we did 2020,” said Microsoft Philippines Country General Manager Andres Ortola. “Management of the Covid-19 public health crisis will drive daily agendas for months to come. Meanwhile, as access to vaccines becomes more prevalent, the transition to economic recovery will be the top concern for governments across the world, including the Philippines. We at Microsoft seek to serve partners across the Philippines’ public sector guided by three core principles: Reset, Rebound & Recover.”

“We envision Asenso Pilipinas to be a catalyst event,” added Ortola. “By working closely with leading private and public organizations across the Philippines we know we can jointly and successfully drive innovations and power purpose-driven digital transformation whenever and wherever it is needed.”


Upskilling Public Sector Professionals for Better Governance

Today’s gathering enabled different departments and sectors from across the Philippine government to accelerate efforts at reigniting economic growth in 2021 and beyond by achieving digital transformation on a national scale. The summit highlighted innovative solutions available to reinvent, reimagine and transform the framework and processes in the public sector.

The event featured four learning tracks focused on a) People: how to close skills gaps and enhance productivity and employability; b) Process: how to stimulate digital transformation across the board; c) Data: building stronger coalitions for responsible digital innovation; and d) Technology: leveraging technological advances to create societal impact sustainably. 

An esteemed roster of national leaders from both public and private sectors joined today’s sessions.

Department of Education (DEPED) Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones, delivered a keynote speech focused on digital transformation and how education in the Philippines will look in the post-Covid 19 environment.

Department of Information & Communications Technology (DICT) Undersecretary for Legal Affairs, Policy, Planning & Finance, Jose Arturo de Castro participated as well, discussing plans to upskill government employees with digital skills, in partnership with Microsoft.

In addition, the learning tracks featured Supreme Court of the Philippines Court Administrator, Justice Jose Midas Marquez, Department of Environment & Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary Analiza R. Teh, and Asian Development Bank (ADB) Director for Digital Innovation and Architecture, Ozzeir Khan.



Tim Cone, Head Coach of Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, giving a talk about The Winning Mindset



Preparing Students with Digital Knowledge and Skills

Meanwhile, thousands of students from across the Philippines’ 7,600-plus islands attended a parallel student track, gaining valuable, inspiring insights, and learning how to access the right tools, experiences, and learning opportunities to build the digital skills necessary to fuel the future.

The student track featured three skilling sessions aimed to empower students in job-seeking and professional networking, digital tools, and resources to strengthen job readiness and essential skills and competencies needed in real-world settings, led by DITO CME Chief Operating Officer Donald Lim; LinkedIn Channel Partnerships Lead Chi Ming Loh; Grab Philippines Country Marketing Head RJ Cabaluna; Western Digital Country HR Director Gil Paolo de Guzman and PJ Lanot of Pino Group of Concepts.



How a Culture of Innovation Can Build Resilience and Accelerate Digital Transformation

Daniel-Zoe-Jimenez, Associate Vice-President of International Data Corporation (IDC), APAC presented the results of an Asia-Pacific-wide, Microsoft-commissioned IDC study, “Culture of Innovation: Foundation for business resilience and economic recovery in Asia."

The study surveyed 213 business decision makers and 231 workers in the Philippines within a 6-month period, before and since the start of the global COVID-19 pandemic. The Philippines study comprised part of a broad survey of 3,312 leading business decision makers and 3,495 workers across 15 markets across Asia Pacific.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, 56% of organizations in the Philippines—like leaders across Asia Pacific (64%)—have found innovation to be easier. The study also indicated that 88% of business decision-makers in the Philippines remarked that innovation is now a "must" for them to quickly respond to market challenges and opportunities and ensure business resilience.



Microsoft Para sa Bayan: Empowering and Enabling Better Government Through Technology

Today’s summit forms a core service offering from Microsoft Philippines’ “Para sa Bayan” initiative. “Para sa Bayan” is a nationwide, holistic series of programs, technology interventions, and skilling efforts to empower stakeholders across the Philippine government, public and private sectors.

Four core strategies drive the Para sa Bayan program: stimulate digital transformation; build coalitions for responsible innovation; close the skills gap to enhance employability; and create societal impact sustainability. The program was built to support and empower the different national digital initiatives of the government and strengthen the Philippines as a digital nation--ready to meet the challenges and capitalize upon the opportunities that will become available for post Covid-19 pandemic governance.

"Through Para sa Bayan, our national goal is to serve as a proactive agent of positive change for at least 25 million Filipinos by 2023. By working closely with government and stakeholders across the public sector, we can help deliver improved digital skills, inclusive opportunities, and digital citizen services for every single Filipino," said Microsoft Philippines Public Sector Director, Joanna Rodriguez. “In 2020 Microsoft celebrated its 25th consecutive year operating in the Philippine market. We are committed to continue our service for the Filipino people and look forward to building—through technology—a stronger, more resilient nation together.” 

Content Creators Chuck and Joe: Promoting Theft on TikTok

Wazzup Pilipinas!

RestoPH condemns irresponsible behavior of “influencers” Chuck Aquino and Joe Abad. 

Gusto ko na naman manampal nang bakla ngayon. Online Sampalan is now Open for Joiners. Basta bakla talaga, mas madalas na Hindi matino ang pag-iisip. Feeling nila nakakatuwa sila palagi.

Bad influences.  Dapat banned nA sa social media platform for advocating stealing.   Kahit na ba sabihin na bayad,   yung condiments should not be used to be taken home. Hindi naman daw ninakaw kasi hindi naman nila kinuha kung hindi kusang ibinigay. Luh. Gobyerno kayo?  Twong mga vaklang twoh. 

Palala ng  palala yung mga gumagamit ng TikTok. Jusko! Kaya dapat na yung ma-ban, palala na sila ng palala sa katoxican nila. Yung mga nagpapakita ng cleavage at mga ibang parte ng boobs...pati puwet nila sa kakasayaw sa TikTok. Ngayon advocating stealing?

It's another case of "influencers" trying to justify their bad behavior for entertainment. But we should use the term "Content Creators" instead as being influenced is subjective especially in this case where they seem to be promoting theft.

They even came out with another unapologetic apology. These two, some would say "influenzas", are actually promoting stealing - a criminal act so enough posting in social media and just file the necessary criminal case as per law.

Make video for clout - it goes viral - public outrage - non-apology apology - repeat...

Kaloka nga yung non-apology nila. Huwag daw magsayang pero nagrequest naman pala sila talaga ng extra togarashi. Pwede naman daw i-take out yun hingi ka ng hingi with an intention to refill your lagayan. Ah, ewan!

Jusko! Itatapon lang naman daw kaya iuuwi na lang nila. Ay bawal pala humingi ng humingi tapos itatakeout lang? Charms! May naalala akong bigla. Yung mga intentional na kumukuha ng marami sa buffet tapos hindi uubusin para i-takeout. Karamihan diyan mga mommy bloggers ang gumagawa para may pasalubong sa bahay.

Ang kukupal nila. It is not a prank, that is theft. 

Anybody laughing about it? Palitan dapat ang headlines of "influencer" ng "huwag tularan". They should be banned in restaurants.

Kawatan is kawatan, so fucking cheap!

Do we have 'persona non grata' in restaurants and fast food chains? Bagay na ipataw sa kanila.

File a criminal case against them so they will learn? Or let go since they just did it for clout? Papansin lang? KSP? All for the views? 

There are 2 outcomes to what this couple did:

1- They are blacklisted from Landers & the restaurants.

2- Landers & the restaurants start charging people for the extra condiments.

If #2 happens, thank #chuckandjoe. Clout pa moooooore.

They paid for it naman daw. Wtf! Ganitong ganito yung naging case ng Family Mart dun sa green matcha ice cream nila. People abuse it kaya inalis na lang. You know pag di na nagserve ang restaurants ng free condiments at may extra fee na these people should be blamed.

Chicken oil at mang inasal is now 7pesos per sachet pack.

Parang sa Burger King dati na you refill soda on your own. Inabuso ng iba. Ang pinupuno nila, yung Coleman jug nila. Kaya, tinanggal din eventually. The same people who steal it will complain kung bakit may bayad na.

So far wala pa naman ako nakikitang ganyan sa S&R.

Food Industries are on strict Cost Saving measures - pero etong mga hampas lupa at patay gutom mga walang malasakit at pag iisip na matino! ANG PAPANGIT NILA!

Hindi lang sa inventory may cost cutting,  kahit sa labor cost.... at yang dalawa ay hindi nakakatulong. Baka matagal na nilang ginagawa iyan. Nangatwiran pa nga na nagbayad naman daw sila. Lol!

Serial nakaw food for clout couple. No remorse or whatsoever maybe you don’t deserve rights.

Just wanna let y’all know na 30petot sa Shopee yung isang pouch/bag ng spices na ninakaw nila. They can’t buy spices and class, I guess.

Yung mga ganitong so called “INFLUENCERS” daw, dapat hindi binibigyan ng chance na sumikat. Lalo kung puro clout contents lang naman. Lalo na yung puro pranks lang ang content. Puro panggagago lang ang alam gawin.

It's easy to be 'influencers' nowadays. Post ka lang ng sexy video mag vviral ka na. They're up for everything. They're like stray dogs waiting to get noticed by people who are willing to feed them, clothe them & have them stay sa resorts. But hopefully there are still some legit influencers who are not patay-gutom.

Why do we have these influencers who are not educated enough as to what they need to to. Bad behaviour is never meant to be a tool to influence people. They should learn that if they had proper education or good family values at the least and obviously they dont have both.

Being an influencer is becoming a stupid concept. They will do anything for content. People have got to stop supporting this type of thing.

Hindi na dapat pinatulan ng RestoPH? Chuck and Joe just gained more views and hits equals money money money!!!! The joke's on RestoPH?

So keep quiet na lang kapag nagnanakaw kasi influencer? Kaya yan ineexpose ng RestoPH ay para mawalan ng sponsors. 

Tingnan natin kung may mukha pa silang ihaharap sa mga restaurants. They should stop food vlogging/blogging. 

So imbes na maging mabuting tao, mag Sleepasil ka na lang so you can get better sleep because that’s much better than doing the right thing.

Tanong natin yung mga brands that seemingly pay them to get promoted, what do they think?

PayMaya

Sleepasil 

Cloud9 Philippines

Samsung Mobile 

Food Panda PH

Create. Relevant. And. Meaningful. Content. Please. 

#Togarashi #ChuckAndJoe #Thieves #Influencers #ContentCreators #RestoPH

Ryuto Sawada Plans to Break Robin Catalan Mentally at ONE: UNBREAKABLE III

Wazzup Pilipinas!


ONE Warrior Series contract winner Ryuto “Dragon Boy” Sawada is looking to put on a mental beatdown of opponent Robin “The Ilonggo” Catalan when the two strawweights step back into the Circle.

Sawada and Catalan are set to lock horns at ONE: UNBREAKABLE III, a previously recorded event at the Singapore Indoor Stadium in Singapore scheduled for global broadcast this Friday, 5 February.

The Japanese stalwart based out of Evolve MMA in Singapore predicts he can break Catalan’s mind before finishing him inside the distance.

“For me, fighting is both physical and mental. You need a strong mind, as well as a strong body. I think he’s the type to get in his own head if he ends up in a bad position. I’ll try to use that to my advantage,” Sawada said.

“I trained hard for this fight, so when I step inside the Circle, I’m ready to give a good performance. I’ll go aggressively from the beginning, and finish the fight in the second or third round.”

Sawada is a winner of four of his last five contests. He got his start in ONE Championship via Rich Franklin’s ONE Warrior Series reality martial arts travel series. Catalan, on the other hand, has won three of his last five, and has been competing in ONE Championship since 2016.

“Dragon Boy” has nothing but respect for Catalan, but at the same time, is still confident he has what it takes to dispatch the 30-year-old Filipino mixed martial arts veteran.

“I think he’s someone that is both capable of striking as well as grappling. He definitely has the ability to finish the fight on his feet or on the ground. I respect all of my opponents. We’ve all been through different journeys to get to this point,” Sawada said.

ONE Championship’s ONE: UNBREAKABLE III once again hosts a series of compelling bouts featuring the world’s best martial artists.

In the main event, former ONE Atomweight Kickboxing and Muay Thai World Champion Stamp Fairtex continues on her quest for a historic third world title. She puts her unblemished professional MMA record on the line against Ukrainian grappler Alyona Rassohyna.

Sawada and Catalan are set to do battle on the main card. After dealing with the lockdowns and restrictions of Covid-19 which have affected his training and preparations, Sawada is relieved to be able to step back inside the Circle to compete.

Against Catalan, Sawada says he’s ready to put on a show.

“It has been quite stressful. Even so, I made sure to be prepared for a fight at any moment’s notice. As fighters, we have to be ready always,” Sawada concluded.

DOTr: Just a few clarifications on the implementation of child restraint seats (CRS) in vehicles

Wazzup Pilipinas!

- The Child Safety in Motor Vehicle Act or RA 11229 is a LEGISLATED and APPROVED LAW that passed through Congress and signed by President Duterte in February 22, 2019, while the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) was approved last December 23, 2019 and took effect on February 2020.

-This is not just a policy or rule implemented by the DOTr nor LTO on its own volition.

-RA 11229 specifically determines the age and height of the child to be covered, as well as the standard of child restraint and penalties to be imposed on violators.

-Since it is a new measure, a transitory period of one year was provided before the mandatory compliance as stated in the IRR. Hence, its effectivity today is BY OPERATION OF LAW.

-The drafting of the IRR underwent a series of public consultations with parents, guardians, among others. The IRR itself was a product of a multi-stakeholder collaboration - various NGOs, CSOs and private sectors were involved in the formulation of this policy.

-Its primary intention, as a matter of state policy, is to uphold the safety of children while aboard motor vehicles.

-A World Health Organization (WHO) study on seat belts and child restraints states that the correct installation and usage of car seats can reduce the risk of death for infants by 70 percent, and 47 to 54 percent for children aged 1 to 4 years old in a road crash incident.

-As stated in RA 11229, the DOTr and LTO will ensure that the provisions on the safety and welfare of infants and children and prevent traffic-related deaths and injuries, including adequately, consistently, and objectively require, regulate, promote, and inform the public on the use of child restraint systems in motor vehicles, and regulate the same access to safe, appropriate, quality and affordable child restraint systems, are in accordance with international standards accepted by the United Nations.

-However, in consideration of the current pandemic, and until a comprehensive information, education, and communications (IEC) campaign is executed in close coordination with NGOs, CSOs, and agencies such as PIA, DepEd and DOH, the DOTr and LTO favor the deferment of its full implementation in terms of enforcement.

-The LTO initially scheduled an Enforcement and Communications Planning Workshop on the Implementation of RA 11229 on March 19-20 last year. However, it was cancelled due to the pandemic and quarantine impositions.

-Part of the planned IEC campaign is the roll out of the information regarding the law, targeting teachers/school officials, children, medical practitioners and  manufacturers/retailers/importers, among others. With the lockdown and limitations in the conduct of activities and travel, the initial plan to conduct a nationwide IEC did not push through.

-Currently, the LTO is in the process of finalizing enforcement protocols, considering that special training is needed due to the involvement of children.

-Last week, LTO emphasized, during an online press briefing, that violators will have no fines for now and will initially be warned and given information materials about the law. According to LTO, issuances of fines/ imposition of driver’s license demerit points may be done in three to six months.

-Both the DOTr and LTO are in agreement that a deferment of the full implementation/enforcement of this new rule is warranted, especially given our current economic situation amid this still raging pandemic.

-A press conference shall be held by the DOTr road sector later today, and the matter of focusing first on the IEC campaign in coordination with LTO, and other agencies identified in the IRR for a more effective and coordinated implementation shall be discussed.

Thank you.

#DOTrPH 🇵🇭️

Tyang Amy is trending because Guinto struck gold by saying "Lakihan mo sasakyan mo"

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Waking up on a Monday to Tyang Amy is trending... This is going to be a good week.

After the interview earlier in Sakto morning segment of ABSCBN. Tyang Amy has gone viral!!

Pinky Webb in January and now Tyang Amy on the first of February. 

Tyang Amy: Kung ang 12 years old sobrang tangkad at siya po ay lalagyan ng booster...aangat at tatama ang ulo sa kotse. Hindi po ba mas delikado ‘yun?

LTO Director Atty. Clarence Guinto: Siguro Ma’am Amy, laki-lakihan mo sasakyan mo.

Tyang Amy putting this old man in his place like a boss! She just reminded us of Digong's (broken) "best and the brightest" promise.

Sasakyan natin daw ang mag-aadjust! Lol! Potah! Ang sasakyan pa ang mag-aadjust sa kagaguhan ng nagpapatupad ng batas?

The state provides "kayo mag-adjust" as a solution in every single problem but no maam Tyang Amy wasn't having any of that today.

Babawiin na naman yan pagtapos ng mahabang talakayan sa kongreso. Mapapaisip ka kung paano nakalusot sa kongreso yan. At napirmahan pa ng Pwesidente. Pupungas-pungas pa yata ng pumirma.

Buti pa si Tyang Amy naisiip yong height ng isang 12 year old. Tyang Amy's Face to Face era is coming back. 

Ang bobo naman!! It should be base on height and weight and not age!! The best and brightest talaga!! 

Lahat ng lang talaga, may issue, kahit di mo hanapan, lumilitaw ang issue.. kasi palpak yung mga gumawa ng plano.

Mag-aral nga kayo, Guinto! Ang booster seats hindi based sa age but sa size ng child! Isipin kung si Kai Sotto yan, ilalagay mo pa sa booster? Libre lang common sense!

The IRR provides for an exception if the child is at least 150 cm or 59 inches in height. The DOTR is supposed to conduct feasibility study within 1 year from the law's effectivity whether to require child restraint systems in PUVs. 

Question: Are PUVs safer that private vehicles?

Next Question: Si Mahal po ba required sa carrier? 

If children 12 y.o. and below are required to use added restraints except those taller than 150 cms., why is it not required for all persons shorter than 150 cms. regardless of age?

They can set an age pero dapat in accordance to the growth of the child din naman. Some children at the age of 11-12 would grow as big as a 15 year old. Tyang Amy has a point. Ewan ko lang kay atty.

Lots of adults are below that threshhold given the juvenile stunting rates of more than 33%.

Jusmio bakit ba nagkalat ang mga tanga sa gobyerno ni Digong? Bakit natin natatagalan ang mga ganito? May pag-asa pa ba ang mga Pinoy?

Kung hindi tanga, hindi pwede sa gobyerno ng inutil. Yan siguro ang qualification. Wag naman sana ganito maging new normal ng ibang nasa gobyerno. Juice colored!!!

Galit ba ang diyos sa atin at ganyan na lang tayo sabuyan ng mga walang utak na pinuno at mambabatas. Sa lahat na lang ng agency, may ganyan. Pambihira!

Masabi lang na may ginagawa sila. Kahit nonsense. Dagdag ray ng sun, renaming MMFF, car seat, new greeting. Naubos na ba logic and sensitivity sa mga opisyales natin?

Grabe, para tayong nasa Smurf village. Comedy ang peg. Yung mga legislations pang cartoon ang peg. Nakakatawa!

Ang mahirap kasi ay tanga din yun nag-appoint.. Hindi tayo may control niyan kaya well isang malalim na buntong hininga na lang....and hope the next election comes soon.

Huwag na magtaka may pinagmanahan kasi. Ganyan din kasi ang poon. Pare-pareho  sila! Kung ano’ng puno, siya ang bunga. Best and brightest, redefined.

Napadalas kasi pag ulan yata nung mga nakaraang taon at mga nabasa kaya dumami sila at nauso ngayon. Yan lang ang uso talagang ayoko makisabay, kinakahiya kasi dati yan..ngayon proud pa sila.

And then suddenly, there's a follow-up news report

LTO NCR Director Atty. Clarence Guinto apologizes after his statement drew flak online.

Patawa talaga mga payaso sa gobyerno. The clowns are never stopping in making us laugh.