PHLPost and Megaworld Lifestyle Malls agree to set up satellite post offices nationwide

Wazzup Pilipinas!?




The Philippine Postal Corporation (Post Office) and Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, one of the largest, most innovative, family-friendly, and award-winning Lifestyle Malls in the country signed a Memorandum of Agreement to set up Satellite Post Offices in “Lifestyle Mall branches” nationwide.

Present in the signing ceremony held at 5F Soler Room Hotel Lucky Chinatown in Manila are Postmaster General Norman N. Fulgencio ; Mr. Esteban Cabanos III - AVP & General Manager, McKinley Hill; Ms. Krishield Quiogue - General Manager, California Garden Square / Arcovia City / Clubhouse at Temple Drive; Assistant Postmaster General for Management Support Services Atty. Benjie Yutoko; Chief Of Staff Atty. Ayzeris B. Ong and Regional Postal Area 3 - Mega Manila Director Olive Valderrama.

“We truly appreciate your effort in giving us the go signal to expand our services by bringing the Post Office closer to the public, with the establishment of satellite post offices in your easily accessible and convenient sites all over the country”, Postmaster General Norman Fulgencio said.

He added, “From City to every corner of the country, hindi lamang sulat ang hinahatid ng Post Office kundi “ANG MALASAKIT” sa bawat Pilipino”.

Now, the Post Office shall easily be accessible to the public offering mail services, express packages, stamps and other philatelic items, Postal IDs and so much more in the most convenient place possible.

Catholic Mass Media Awards Recognized Reverb Worship Songs

Wazzup Pilipinas!?




Reverb Worship Wins Best Inspirational Song, Best Music Video at 44th Catholic Mass Media Awards



Reverb Worship’s inspirational songs stirred the hearts of listeners and took home major recognitions at this year’s Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA).

“Pilipinas Natin ‘To” performed by Bikolana creative Rhea Rodriguez and rising rapper Elai, was hailed as Best Inspirational Song. Striking a chord with its ethnic, hip hop-rock vibe and lyrics that evoke nationalistic pride, the song seeks to inspire unity among Filipinos during these divisive times.

“I can only say, this is a miracle!” Rhea exclaimed. “I praise God for this breakthrough. This is God’s project, and I was only used by Him. This is my first CMMA experience and I am beyond grateful for this award!”

 

The song, which was arranged by award-winning musical director, Mon Faustino, is Rhea’s first collaboration with Reverb Worship, CBN Asia’s music arm. She continued, “I thank everyone who took part in this song. I am blessed to be part of Reverb Worship and to partner with them in delivering a message of God's hope to the world. All praise and glory to God!”

Meanwhile, Joselle Feliciano’s feel-good single, “Love and Light” penned by songwriter Adrian Crisanto and directed by Icko Gonzalez, bagged the Best Music Video Special Citation. A cute, comics-inspired concept blended with colorful visuals, the song’s music video is a gentle nudge to rediscover joy, positivity, and prayer at any season in life.

CBN Asia’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer John Valdes Tan hopes that inspirational songs produced by Reverb Worship will continue to stir the listeners’ heart for country and faith in God.

“We thank the CMMA for giving Reverb Worship these two awards. They serve as an encouragement and an inspiration for Reverb Worship and CBN Asia to keep producing excellent songs and music videos for our Lord, Jesus Christ. We give God the glory and honor for these songs and these awards. Truly, all good things come from Him,” Tan said.

Stream “Pilipinas Natin 'To” and “Love and Light” on all digital streaming platforms worldwide! Stay tuned for Reverb Worship’s upcoming song releases, follow on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.

Ang pambansang ulam siopao na!

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



Can’t decide between Bola-bola and Asado? The Adobo Siopao by 7-Eleven might just be your new favorite only for Php43!

Consistently bringing something new to the table, 7-Eleven’s creativity in making yummy, convenient food selections is proven again through a tasty twist to Filipino’s unofficial national dish, Adobo. In collaboration with the renowned Filipino chef, Chef Reggie Aspiras, the brand launches their latest member of the 7-Fresh ‘Siopao-mily’ – the 7-Fresh Adobo Siopao.

With 7-Eleven’s reputation for making accessible yet quality food selections, this is surely a value-for-money snack and a solution for that lutong bahay craving. The brand takes the meaning of comfort food up a notch – providing that ‘best of both worlds’ experience as customers delight in the goodness of a home-cooked-inspired filling while making it easy and quick to consume through their ready-to-eat packaging.

For a literal dish in a bun, individuals don’t have to pay much to get that munch fix and satisfaction for hectic days since face-to-face classes and return to offices are in full swing this year. It comes in Regular size and retails for as low as Php43 apiece. Grabbing this cost-effective snack doesn’t have to go over the budget, especially for students, office workers, and foodies who are always on the go and lookout for affordable yet satisfying treats.

It is a no-brainer that Adobo is a favorite for most Filipino consumers. Along with Chef Reggie who is hailed as the Kitchen Rescuer, 7-Eleven is bringing the Filipino kitchen into their stores for everyone to relish.

Get a taste of this budget-friendly, home-on-the-go snack. The 7-Fresh Adobo Siopao is available in 7-Eleven stores nationwide starting Wednesday, October 19.

Baon hunters may also try more flavors from 7-Fresh’s wide-ranging siopao menu: Budget (Asado, BolaBola, Barbeque Chicken Asado, Garlic Chicken, Chorizo-VIS), Regular (Chicken Asado, Chicken BolaBola), Premium (Asado, Bolabola), and Special Variant (Vikings Tuna Melt and Pizza Siopao, Mushroom Sisig-MIN).


Like us on 7-Eleven Philippines Facebook, follow @711ph on Instagram, and @711philippines on Twitter for more information.

FDCP Partners with QCinema International Film Festival, To Screen 3 Cannes Films

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



In line with its goal to bring world cinema to the Philippines, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) is set to screen Cannes Film Festival official selection titles in the QCinema International Film Festival from November 18 to 25.

Fresh from this year’s Cannes Film Festival, Return to Seoul by Davy Chou and Corsage by Marie Kreutzer, both from the Un Certain Regard section, will be part of the 10th year edition of QCinema under the Asian Next Wave, the festival’s main competition section, and Screen International, respectively.

Return to Seoul by Cambodian-French filmmaker Chou is about a twenty-five-year-old French woman Frankie who returns to South Korea for the first time to where she was born before being adopted and raised in France. In her hopes to find her biological parents, her journey takes a surprising turn. Return to Seoul was nominated for Best Film at the 2022 Sydney Film Festival.

Patrick Brzeski of The Hollywood Reporter describes Return to Seoul as “expressive, unpredictable, feminist and fun, Freddie is a vibrant beam of searching, semi-wounded humanity.” For Clarence Tsui of South China Morning Post, Chou’s film surpasses its basic premise, he said: “Though Chou is neither a woman nor a Korean, nor an adoptee, he has managed to find something in Return to Seoul that he clearly connects with and that resonates with anyone else looking for their own place in the world, too.”

Austrian director Kreutzer’s Corsage is a film about the late years of Empress Elisabeth of Austria played by Vicky Krieps who bagged the Un Certain Regard award for Best Performance. Empress Elisabeth ‘Sissi’ is idolized for her beauty and renowned for inspiring fashion trends. But in 1877, as she celebrated her 40th birthday, she must fight to maintain her public image by lacing her corset tighter and tighter.

Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian commends the Corsage star Vicky Krieps for her performance as Elisabeth, “Vicky Krieps puts in a star turn. An exhilaratingly fierce, uningratiating performance.” Stephanie Bunbury of Deadline also praised the actress, “Vicky Krieps brings great complexity to her portrait of the empress.”

Cannes 2019 Best Screenplay winner and Golden Globe nominee, Portrait of a Lady on Fire, a French film by Celine Sciamma, is also returning this year in cinemas under QCinema’s Rainbow QC section and is being co-presented by the French Film Festival and the QCinema LGBTQIA+ Program. The film also won the Queer Palm at Cannes, making it the first film directed by a woman to win the award. Rainbow QC showcases the distinctive portrayals of the LGBT experience in varying periods and settings.

Aside from Return to Seoul, Corsage, and Portrait of a Lady on Fire, the FDCP also is bringing other top-notch international films to the Philippines including Celine Sciamma’s latest feature Petite Maman, Joachim Trier’s Oscar-nominated (Best International Feature and Best Screenplay) film The Worst Person in the World where actress Renate Reinsve won Best Actress in Cannes 2021, and 2021 Cannes Un Certain Regard film, Women Do Cry, by Vesela Kazakova and Mina Mileva.

FDCP’s latest acquisition, Léonor Serraille’s Mother and Son, was nominated for Cannes Film Festival’s Palme d’Or under the In Competition section. It won the C.S.T Young Film Technician Prize for the film’s production designer Marion Burger.



For more information and updates, follow QCinema’s social media pages and FDCP’s official pages on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.



SCREENING SCHEDULE

Return to Seoul

Nov 18 Friday 9:25 - 11:15 pm Gateway Cinema 2

Nov 19 Saturday 6:25-8:20 pm Gateway Cinema 2

Nov 22 Tuesday 1:30-3:10 pm Gateway Cinema 2

Nov 23 Wednesday 8:40-10:40 pm Trinoma Cinema 1



Corsage

Nov 19 Saturday 3:15-5:15 pm Gateway Cinema 5

Nov 24 Thursday 1:00-2:55 pm Trinoma Cinema 1

Nov 25 Friday 8:45-10:45 pm Rockwell Cinema 6



Portrait of a Lady on Fire

Nov 22 Tuesday 1:00-3:05 pm Trinoma Cinema 1

Nov 25 Friday 1:00-3:05 pm Gateway Cinema 1

16th International Silent Film Festival Manila 2022: Celebrating the Strength of Silence

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

After two years of online film screenings and activities, the annual International Silent Film Festival Manila (ISFFM) is now back with in-person festivities in celebration of sixteen years of reliving rich silent film culture worldwide.

This year’s serving will be joined by the Embassy of France to the Philippines, Goethe-Institut Philippinen, Embassy of Italy in Manila with the Philippine Italian Association, The Japan Foundation, Manila, Film Development Council of the Philippines, Instituto Cervantes de Manila, and the British Council in the Philippines. Live scored by selected Filipino bands and musicians, silent films will be screened from November 24-27, 2022, at the Red Carpet, Shangri-La Mall, Mandaluyong City.

Sharing the Toast: The 4-Day Silent Film Experience

Signaling the start of its annual toast, 16th ISFFM’s invitational opening ceremony is hosted by the British Council in the Philippines. Accompanied by performances and cocktails at the Grand Atrium of Shangri-La Mall at 6:00PM, this function will be graced by dignitaries from partner cultural organizations, film experts and critics, academicians and guests.

The screening of British film Piccadilly at Red Carpet Cinema 1 will follow at 8:00PM. Live scored by Filipino band Anahata in collaboration with Sensoria, this 1929 silent film tells a story about a scullery maid in a fashionable London nightclub whose sensuous tabletop dance catches the eye of a suave club owner. Piccadilly is regarded as one of the pinnacles of British silent cinema.

The festival’s second day will be started by a webinar spotlighting the representative films for this season.

The organizations will be sharing their processes of restoration, curation, and the continuing impact of the films in their countries’ cinema history. Through Zoom, the webinar will be open to the public.

Back at the Red Carpet Cinema 1, German and French films will be shown starting 5:00PM.

The 1922 German film Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror, scored by The Brockas is the first cinematic adaptation of “Dracula”. Set in Transylvania, Nosferatu shares realtor Hutter’s story of entering a contract with Count Orlok, who is later known to be a vampire and will bring tragedy, plague and death to the port city of Wisborg. A thrilling cine-concert experience awaits viewers of this film.

Charles Burguet and René Le Somptier’s 1919 French piece La sultane de l'amour (The Sultan of Love – A Thousand and One Nuits) is this year’s oldest classic film. Starred by France Dhélia, Sylvio De Pedrelli and Yvonne Sergyl, this is an orientalist fairytale of the tormented love of Princess Daoulah and Prince Mourad, who met as disguised girl of the people and poor fisherman, and who could not find each other. The princess is later coveted by the sinister Sultan Malik, assisted by the fearsome Kadjar.

This classic will be scored by Bras Pas Pas Pas.

Festival’s day three opens a round table discussion led by musicians sharing their expertise, tips and experiences in scoring their assigned films. The film seminar will happen at the Premiere Theater at 3:00PM.

At 4:00PM, Spain’s 1926 film Malvaloca will be shown, scored by Talahib People’s Music. A story of Rosita, the Malvaloca's journey of finding her love, the silent film was considered lost and after its partial restoration, premiered at the 2010 Malaga Festival for the first time since the 1920s.

Japanese film 淑女と髯 (The Lady and the Beard) will follow at 8:00PM, with musical score by Bullet Dumas. This 1931 film, known to be a commercially and critically-acclaimed masterpiece by the world renowned filmmaker Yasujiro Ozu, follows Okajima, a conservative and self-conscious student, unable to find work and love because of his magnificent beard, who then saves a young girl from a gang of ruffians.

At her suggestion, he shaves his beard off and experiences surprising success.

Organized by the Film Development Council of the Philippines, event day 4 will witness a roundtable discussion on the challenges in the restoration of Philippine films led by local film archivists at 1:00 PM.

Ubaldo Maria Del Colle’s I Figli Di Nessuno (Nobody's children), Italy’s representative film, is scheduled at 3:00 PM. This 1921 film based on a popular Italian novel from the turn of the 20th century, Nobody’s Children by Ruggero Rindi, is a tale of lovers thwarted by class differences, of illegitimate children and denied parental recognition. Although it encountered some problems with the censorship for denouncing children’s labor in the mines as well as for bringing to the big screen the workers’ strikes, I Figli Di Nessuno became a successful film for both producer Gustavo Lombardo and the leading actress Leda Gys.

At 7:00PM, the 16th International Silent Film Festival will come into close. Celebrating the success of its face-to-face comeback, the closing ceremonies will be filled with colors and music. The Film Development Council of the Philippines will be leading the ceremonies.

The night will be wrapped up by the screening of three of the best short silent films from the 2021 Mit Out Sound (MOS): International Silent Film Competition organized by the Film Development Council of the Philippines: Ing Tianak, Alingasngas ng mga Kuliglig, and Dikit, with music played by the BConcept and Vincent Del Rosario.

EJ Gagui and Marienel Calma's animated short film Ing Tianak is set in an almost-urban town beset by the myth of a mysterious creature, a wife who suffered a miscarriage and a young woman who is forced into hiding seek redemption. In the process, they are forced to confront the same monster.

Vahn Pascual’s Alingasngas ng mga Kuliglig (Gossips of the Cicadae), which won Best Film, is a story of Agapito, a naive teenage boy living with his persuasive machismo father, Mang Pedring, in a far-away mountain province. Mang Pedring wants Agapito to follow his footsteps in being a folk healer, also known as albularyo. But later on, in the course of Agapito’s transitioning in becoming the next folk healer of their town, he met a tikbalang. And in this moment, Agapito feels the love that he’s longing for a long time which also lets him realize that he’s trapped, because of his father, in a patriarch and very conservative upbringing household and he wants to leave it all behind.

Lastly, Gabriela Serrano's Dikit, in which she won as Best Director and also as Best Film, is loosely based on a lost silent film by Jose Nepomuceno. It reimagines classic Philippine folk horror into a contemporary diptych of feminine bodies, rage, and freedom. Living in isolation and yearning for human connection, this film is about a woman afflicted with a dark curse who develops an obsession with her new neighbors, a young couple with a secret of their own. As the days pass, she begins to witness happenings between them that ultimately force her to confront her nature, and perhaps save a life in the process.

The 16th International Silent Film Festival Manila is organized by Embassy of France to the Philippines, Goethe-Institut Philippinen, Embassy of Italy in Manila, The Japan Foundation, Manila, Film Development Council of the Philippines, Instituto Cervantes de Manila, and British Council in the Philippines, in partnership with Philippine Italian Association, Shangri-La Properties, Inc., and 2Lives Creatives, Events and Media, Inc.

For more information on the schedule and inquiries, please check this Facebook Page:

www.facebook.com/InternationalSilentFilmFestivalManila 

or you may also check the following websites:

Embassy of Italy/Philippine-Italian Association

https://philippineitalianassociation.org

The Japan Foundation, Manila

http://www.jfmo.org.ph

Goethe-Institut Philippinen

https://www.goethe.de/manila

Embassy of France

http://www.ambafrance-ph.org

British Council

https://www.britishcouncil.ph/

Instituto Cervantes de Manila

http://manila.cervantes.es

Film Development Council of the Philippines

http://www.fdcp.ph

FDCP’s International Film Industry Conference Returns for 6th Edition, Features Hybrid Public Sessions and Masterclasses

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The International Film Industry Conference (IFIC), an international platform hosted by the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) geared towards bringing together international and local industry professionals to share and discuss the latest trends, developments, and cooperation opportunities, will be holding its sixth edition in hybrid format from November 18 to 20 at Novotel Manila Araneta Center in Quezon City and online via Zoom and Facebook.

This year’s IFIC is in partnership with QCinema International Film Festival and Full Circle Lab - Philippines, a capacity-building program from the partnership of FDCP and Tatino Films. IFIC will feature six free public sessions, three masterclasses, and a workshop series.

This year’s IFIC will offer free public sessions on documentary filmmaking, global trends on film distribution and exhibition, incentives and grants for Filipino filmmakers, and funding opportunities. As IFIC continues to promote regional and international synergy in the filmmaking industry, the IFIC public sessions for this edition will include a roundtable discussion with the ASEAN-Republic of Korea film commissions and agencies on accessing global opportunities for the Southeast Asian film industry and a session on international co-production in Asia.

The masterclasses in IFIC are recommended for film industry professionals and enthusiasts who would like to gain more knowledge on specific topics namely co-production with other countries, models of film distribution, and marketing films in the global market.

Registration fee

for one masterclass is PHP 1000 or USD 17, while a package of all three masterclasses is PHP 2,500 or USD 42.

The workshop series on dossier-making and pitching is exclusive to the FDCP’s selected CreatePH grantees.

Interested participants to the free public sessions and masterclasses for both online and onsite events are required to register at the IFIC website. Log on to fdcp.ph/ific to secure a slot to the country’s premiere film industry event. Registration is open until November 14, 2022. For more information and updates on IFIC 2022, visit their official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/IFICPHofficial.

Lineup of Activities for IFIC 2022:

Day 1 - November 18, 2022 (Friday)

● Keynote Address: Addressing the Philippine Film Industry

1:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Speaker:

Chair Tirso Cruz III | Chairperson and CEO, Film Development Council of the Philippines

With cinemas opening their doors as the pandemic eases, developments in the status of the film industry have been positive. This keynote address from FDCP's Chairperson and CEO addresses this rapid development and lays out how the Agency will support the Philippine film industry in the years to come.

● Session 1: How Dokyus Make a Difference: Creating and Funding Impactful

Documentary Films

1:45 PM - 2:55 PM

The complete set of speakers will be announced soon.

Creating an impactful film that transcends its narratives to a wider audience is a challenge in itself but securing funding for a documentary film is a different feat. From a country with diverse meaningful stories, Philippine documentary filmmaking has been thriving despite these challenges through the years. In this panel session, we learn directly from experts how filmmakers can further elevate their knowledge of documentary filmmaking and collaborations that can help their projects further.

● Session 2: Let’s Create Together: Funding and Incentive Opportunities for Filipino

Filmmakers

3:10 PM - 4:20 PM

Panelists:

FDCP/FilmPhilippines Representative

Wilfredo Manalang | Producer, Blue Room (CreatePH Grantee)

Bianca Balbuena | Producer, Nocebo (FilmPhilippines Grantee)

Jun Juban | Producer, Survivor Philippines (FilmPhilippines Grantee)

Agathe Vinson | Consultant, Film Development Council of the Philippines

Moderator:

Madonna Tarrayo | President and CEO, Unitel Productions, Inc./Straight Shooters Media

With the goal to support more Filipino film projects and collaborations, the FDCP initiated CreatePH Films and FilmPhilippines programs. Since its launch last 2021, it has produced several grants and co-production incentives that have allowed film projects to be produced and screened locally and internationally. This panel will discuss and informbon how to get these opportunities with the programs' grantees.

Day 2 - November 19, 2022 (Saturday)

● Session 3: ASEAN-ROK Roundtable: Mapping Global Opportunities for the Southeast

Asian Film Industry

11:00 AM - 12:10 PM

Panelists:

Mr. Tirso Cruz III | Chairperson and CEO, Film Development Council of the Philippines

Mr. Sirisak Koshpasharin | Vice President, The National Federation of Motion Pictures and Contents Associations

Mr. Park Ki-Yong | Chairman, Korean Film Council

Moderator:

Ms. Lorna Tee | Producer

In recent years Southeast Asian cinema has been making its mark on the world stage.

With the immense talent in the region, industry support from the ASEAN and ROK film commissions has been outpouring. This panel session will highlight the state and plans of film commissions to support their film industries to reach global opportunities.

● Session 4: Producing with Asia: Success Stories of International Co-Production

12:25 PM - 1:35 PM

Panelists:

Chie Hayakawa | Producer, Plan 75 (Japan)

Makbul Mubarak | Director, Autobiography (Indonesia)

Sorayos Prapapan | Director, Arnold is a Model Student (Thailand)

Bianca Balbuena | Producer, When The Waves Are Gone (Philippines)

Moderator:

Lorna Tee | Producer

With the Asian region having rich stories that are deserving of a worldwide audience, the brilliance of its cinema, through the years, has been shining brighter. With challenges in production and the financial aspects of producing a film, co-productions have been a vital part of these stories coming to life. This panel, powered by QCinema International Film Festival, features Asian filmmakers who will share their success stories and experiences in co-producing with their international partners.

● Session 5: Streaming Now: The Rise of a New Era of Film Exhibition

2:05 PM - 3:15 PM

Panelists:

Quark Henares | Head of Originals, Asia Pacific, Amazon Prime (Singapore/US)

Joyce Villaflor | Content Manager, iWantTFC

Ronan De Guzman | Chief Operating Officer, Vivamax

Corinna Vistan-Takahashi |Head of Content Development, Viu Philippines

Moderator: Monster Jimenez | Producer

This panel features the current streaming companies present in the Philippines. Get to know them as they discuss the impact that streaming video on demand has had on the global market and on the audiences, and how this will likely affect the dynamics of independent producers and distributors with VODs in catering to the demands and needs of the industry and the audiences.

● Session 6: Global Industry Trends on Film Distribution

3:30 PM - 4:40 PM

Panelists:

Samuel Javier | Festival Director, New York Asian Film Festival

Menina Wesmurti | Festival Director, EuroCinema Jakarta & Manusia Film Festival

Agathe Vinson | Consultant, The Greenhouse

Moderator: Jo Andrew Torlao | Manager, UniPhilippines

With the developments in distribution platforms and consumer behavior, producers and distributors have been on the lookout for best practices in bringing their films to the world. This session features a panel of experts ranging from festival directors to international distributors who delves into the evolving practices of film distribution and shares new strategies and opportunities to reach audiences.

Day 3 - November 20, 2022 (Sunday)

● Masterclass 1: This or That: Co-producing With VS Within the Region

1:00 PM - 2:10 PM

Speaker:

Meiske Taurisia | Producer (Indonesia)

With the co-production deals and programs all over the world, the Asian region has been competitive in providing opportunities to its filmmakers. Co-production has been made easier and better with the different options to co-produce within your own or with neighboring countries. In this talk, an expert in international co-productions from Southeast Asia will talk about the similarities and differences through her experiences in producing with and within the region.

● Masterclass 2: A Closer Look at Film Distribution Models

2:40 PM - 3:50 PM

This session with an award-winning distributor with experience in international co-productions delves into the different models of film distribution. Ranging from the traditional to newer distribution trends, learn new strategies as we adapt to changes in platforms and audience behavior.

● Masterclass 3: Master Your Strategy: Marketing for the Global Marketplace

4:20 PM - 5:30 PM

Speaker: Ewa Bojanowska | New Europe Film Sales (Poland)

Just as the script and directing, marketing can also make or break your film. It is essentially the key to promoting and bringing in audiences for your film. A tailor-fit approach is best when creating a strategy to market to your target audiences. This session will delve into mastering your strategies for successful and effective marketing.

Harassment Sa Mga Kababaihan Sa La Union, Iniimbestigahan Na – Gov Rafy

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Iniimbestigahan na ang naiulat na harassment ng isang indibidwal sa mga kababaihan sa bayan ng San Juan, ayon kay La Union Governor Rafy Ortega-David.

Sa isang official statement, sinabi ni Ortega-David na nakatanggap sya ng ulat ng mga babae na hina-harass ng isang partikular na indibidwal na hindi muna papangalanan dahil ito ay sumasailalim sa imbestigasyon. Ang modus operandi ay ang nasabing indibidwal ay kumukuha ng mga larawan at video ng mga kababaihan sa bayan ng San Juan at ini-upload online nang walang pahintulot.

Ipinahayag ng gobernadora na agad niyang tinawagan ang La Union Provincial Police Office at ang Municipality of San Juan Police Office para ipaalam sa kanila ang tungkol sa mga paglabag sa Republic Act 11313 o The Safe Spaces Act, pagkatapos malaman niyang mismo ang tungkol sa mga insidenteng ito mula sa mga biktima at mga saksi.

Inatasan nya ang kapulisan na magsiyasat at tumugon sa napakaseryosong problemang ito.

“Allow me to speak to you in two personas: As your Governor and as a woman. As your Governor, I am sorry for your experience. Whether you are a local or a guest of La Union, you should be able to feel safe and not worry of any malicious intent nor doing. I am all about protecting and creating a safe space for all of you,” aniya.

“As a woman, it breaks my heart that we are still subject to misogyny in spite of the many movements, wake-up calls, and lessons that we’ve learned from those before us. I will forever commit to ensure that my position of influence is used for good, specifically to ensure that women’s rights will be upheld anytime, anywhere.”

Higit pa rito, hinimok ni Ortega-David ang lahat na agad na mag-ulat sa pinakamalapit na Philippine National Police station sa nasabing lugar kung may mangyari na mangangailangan ng tulong ng mga alagad ng batas.

Nangako rin siya na titiyakin na magkakaroon ng resolusyon ang nasabing insidente, na magkakaroon ng mabigat na parusa para sa mga lalabag at lumalabag sa batas, at ang La Union ay isang ligtas na lugar para sa lahat.

“Dios ti agngina, God Bless us all, and God Bless our fair La Union,” pagtatapos ni Ortega-David.

BingoPlus supports Pinoy pop scene with sponsorship of Jonathan Manalo

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



BingoPlus, the first live streamed bingo game licensed by PAGCOR, threw its support behind Filipino songwriter and music producer Jonathan Manalo by being a major sponsor of his recent concert entitled “Mr. Music”.

Manalo, the most streamed music producer and songwriter online who has recorded nearly 500 compositions, celebrated his 20th anniversary in the business with a grand concert that featured Gary Valenciano, Kyla, KZ Tandingan, Jed Madela, Angeline Quinto, Moira de la Torre, PPop groups BGYO and BINI, Darren Espanto, Angela Ken, Sheena Belarmino, and VXON.

Manalo is known for masterpieces such as “Paano Ba Ang Magmahal”, “Kabataang Pinoy”, “Gusto Ko Nang Bumitiw” and “Tara Tena”, among others.

BingoPlus, which has consistently supported the arts, pop culture, music, cultural events and sports said they supported the prolific producer-songwriter because “Filipinos love his songs, and we are all about reflecting and pushing for the expression of the Filipino taste and spirit”.

“As an exponent of Filipino leisure activities, one of the biggest goals of BingoPlus is to provide top entertainment to Filipino audiences. So if there are events or personalities that add value to the Pinoy pursuit of entertainment, we are always out there to support them. On our own, BingoPlus also stages its shows and special events. We have big entertainment plans for the future,” said Jasper Vicencio, AB Leisure Exponent Inc. president, the company that launched the Bingo Plus brand.

Fans at the Mr. Music concert downloaded the BingoPlus app and experienced the fun of playing BingoPlus for as low as P1.00.

Modern and convenient Tigbauan Post Office in Iloilo province inaugurated

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

 

In its continuing thrust to make its services more accessible and convenient to the public, the Philippine Postal Corporation (Post Office) has opened another LGU-assisted Post Office located in Tigbauan, Iloilo province.

Postmaster General Norman Fulgencio, Tigbauan Municipal Mayor Virgilio T. Teruel, Vice Mayor Lugen T. Ortilano, Atty. Benjie Yotoko, Assistant Postmaster General for Management Support Services, Chief of Staff Atty. Ayzeris B. Ong and Ms. Donabel Asuncion, Post Office Regional Postal Area 6 Director, formally led the blessing and inauguration of the newly constructed Tigbauan Post Office.

Mayor Teruel expressed his profound gratitude to the Post Office management led by Postmaster General Norman Fulgencio to accommodate the request of the people of Tigbauan and provide post office services such as Postal ID capturing, express mail service, mail and parcel delivery, registered mail and postage stamps.

“Over the years, the Philippine Postal System was created by our forefathers to connect the world through communication and it should not only be protected and sustained but also improved. We, postal workers, are guardians in ensuring that we evolve and improve the postal experience in this changing world through technology”, Postmaster General Norman Fulgencio said.

The Post Office has a website wherein people can order stamps and other products and in the coming months, the Post Office mobile applications shall be operational, where the public can track mail and parcels, pay customs duties and taxes, and pay online on government services among others.

“Initially, we have Thirteen (13) pilot post offices under the UBX Philippines and Post Office pilot project and are now adding another one to include the Municipality of Tigbauan. The Post Office that they have built is quite impressive and a model in the province of Iloilo. The Post Office in the municipality of Tigbauan shall be one of the key areas in the country to be digitally transformed into a financial hub to promote financial and social inclusion", he said.

The project will be crucial in uplifting the lives of Filipinos by bringing post office services closer to the communities.

SSS, RCBC promote financial inclusion among members through the UMID Pay Cards

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



The Social Security System (SSS) and the Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) recently signed a pact that will make every SSS member become part of the financial system through the UMID Pay Cards at the SSS Main Office in Quezon City.

SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Michael G. Regino (3rd from left) and RCBC President and Chief Executive Officer Eugene S. Acevedo (4th from left) led the signing ceremonies of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that will authorize RCBC to issue UMID Pay Cards to SSS members.


SSS welcomes RCBC, one of the country’s leading universal banks, as its newest partner in producing UMID Pay Cards.


Regino said that RCBC will start issuing UMID Pay Cards to SSS members in the first quarter of 2023.


“SSS and RCBC are already in the process of systems integration, and we are looking forward to rolling it out early next year,” he added.


Aside from being a valid government-issued ID, the UMID Pay Card will also serve as an ATM card since it will be linked to the member’s chosen Bank account, such as RCBC savings account. The UMID Pay Card Bank account will have no required starting and maintaining balance and will be the default disbursement account where the proceeds of their SSS benefits, loan, will be readily credited.


"We are looking forward to a meaningful partnership with RCBC as SSS moves toward the financial inclusion of our members, especially those from the agricultural and fishing sector of our society as well as all workers in the informal economy. We are hoping that with this union which are only IDs will already have their UMID Pay Cards,” the SSS Chief added.


Generally, most Filipinos do not have a bank account because they lack identification requirements such as a valid ID or enough money to open a bank account.


With the UMID Pay Cards, SSS members can use this to check their balance, withdraw cash, transfer funds, pay bills, or deposit cash through RCBC branches, ATMs, and its online banking facility.


Aside from the MOA, SSS and RCBC officials also signed the Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Agreement and Data Sharing Agreements to protect the biometric data and personal information of SSS members to be used in producing the UMID Pay Cards.

Also present during the MOA signing are (standing from left to right) SSS Identity Management Department Head Jose Antonio L. Salazar (leftmost side), SSS Senior Vice President for Member Services and Support Group Normita M. Doctor (2nd from left), RCBC Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation and Inclusion Officer Angelito M. Villanueva (3rd from right), RCBC Vice President for Go-to-Market and Scale Division Digital Enterprise and Innovations Group Robert Alexander O. Campos (2nd from right), and RCBC Senior Manager for Customer Activations and Strategic Partnerships Department Kirsten B. Nagrampa (rightmost side).

Construction of new Manila International Airport in Bulacan in full swing

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) led by Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista is closely monitoring developments in the P735-billion New Manila International Airport (NMIA) which is now rising in the province of Bulacan.

Secretary Bautista on Saturday joined other transport officials in conducting an inspection of the new international airport’s build site in Bulakan town as construction of the country’s largest and most sophisticated gateway goes full swing.

Land development works are now being done at the airport’s 1,693-hectare site which is located 35 kilometers north of Metro Manila.

Works on the NMIA officially started on September 18, 2019, when the government, through the DOTr, signed a concession agreement with San Miguel Aerocity Inc. (SMAI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of San Miguel Holdings Corp., and the infrastructure arm of San Miguel Corporation.

The DOTr and the SMAI are working together to make sure that the project complies with environmental protection requirements, particularly flood mitigation, considering the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) which was conducted prior to commencement of works at the airport site.

Also joining Secretary Bautista in the inspection of the airport construction site was San Miguel Corporation (SMC) president and CEO Ramon Ang.

Secretary Bautista is assuring stakeholders of the new international airport that the gateway will soon be open for business. Operations at the new gateway are targeted to start in 2027.

Once built, the new international airport will be fully owned by the government under a “build-operate-transfer” program.

Once operational, the new gateway will not only help decongest the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) as the capital’s main gateway, but will also be a “game changer” and catalyst of economic growth in Central Luzon. Phase 1 of the airport will have a capacity of 35 million passengers per annum, is expected generate more than 1 million jobs, and rake-in increased foreign direct investments and higher exports.

Under the 50-year concession agreement, SMAI will undertake the financing, design, construction, supply, completion, testing, commissioning, and operation and maintenance (O&M) of the new international gateway.

With a design capacity of up to 100 million passengers annually and plans for four parallel runways, the New Manila International Airport is expected to help decongest the NAIA and enable the airports in the Greater Capital Region (Metro Manila and nearby provinces) to meet forecast passenger demand.

"Fondly Remembering Spain", exhibition by Phyllis Zaballero

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Instituto Cervantes presents “Fondly Remembering Spain" an exhibition of Phyllis Zaballero’s “Spanish paintings”. The exhibit will be on view at the Instituto Cervantes' Intramuros branch from November 10, 2022 to January 22, 2023.

This collection of paintings, including those from private collections and those from the artist, was inspired by the Zaballero’s years spent in Barcelona and memories of her trips around the Iberian Peninsula from 1957 to 1960 which had a strong impact on her as an artist.

She belongs to what we can define as the postmodern generation of artists who were trained in the spirit of the still revolutionary avant-garde style of the first half of the 20th century. Her first artworks developed in an extraordinary period of Philippine painting, from the 50s to the 80s.

“Fondly Remembering Spain" is organized by Instituto Cervantes in collaboration with the Embassy of Spain. For further information, please visit Instituto Cervantes' website at manila.cervantes.es, Facebook page (InstitutoCervantesManila) or Instagram (institutocervantesmanila). You may also send an email to cenmni@cervantes.es.

Filipino among 40 languages of instruction in Instructure’s Canvas LMS platform for 100 Million Learners Free Global Initiative

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



Canvas LMS to deliver learning in more than 40 languages through the Francis and Dionne Najafi 100 Million Learners Global Initiative


Instructure, the maker of Canvas, has partnered with Thunderbird School of Global Management (Thunderbird) at Arizona State University (ASU), to provide a platform for the Francis and Dionne Najafi 100 Million Learners Global Initiative. This ambitious program is powered by the Canvas Learning Management System and aims to offer quality online education from world-class accredited institutions in 40 languages to learners across the globe. The courses will be provided at no cost to the learner with women and girls accounting for 70 percent of enrollment worldwide.

"The Francis and Dionne Najafi 100 Million Learners Global Initiative is exactly the type of global care initiative Instructure is excited and proud to put resources and time into supporting," said Steve Daly, CEO of Instructure. "As leaders, we need to think globally about how we deliver first-rate equal access to education with a diverse range of student needs in mind. This global initiative is an engaging online program that offers necessary flexibility and empowers forward-thinking leaders and educators worldwide. We are delighted to be a part of that kind of innovative actionable program.”

Francis and Dionne Najafi, both Thunderbird graduates, made an unprecedented $25 million donation to the Thunderbird School of Global Management earlier this year that launched the Francis and Dionne Najafi 100 Million Learners Global Initiative. The program provides world-class education to a population that previously could not access it, especially women and young learners. It continues through 2030.

"We believe access to education is a basic human right, which is why we worked with Thunderbird to create a global initiative that will educate 100 million learners worldwide," said F. Francis Najafi on behalf of him and his wife, Dionne Najafi. "We are excited and deeply humbled to be part of such a bold initiative that combines T-bird's entrepreneurial drive with a desire to do good. We hope to impact communities around the world and be a force that brings us all closer together."

“The Francis and Dionne Najafi 100 Million Learners Global Initiative is an ambitious large-scale program, and the number of people it aims to reach with online education at no cost is unprecedented,” said Shiren Vijiasingam, chief product officer at Instructure. “The program aligns with our goal of extending inclusive education worldwide. We’re proud to partner with the initiative and support it with Canvas—a world-class solution for the world’s classrooms that makes student success more equitable.”

The Global Initiative has three pathways for learners depending on their education levels. The foundational courses are for learners of any level; the intermediate courses are for advanced high school learners to current undergraduate learners; the advanced courses are for advanced undergraduate learners and above.

"We are honored to partner with Instructure and their Canvas LMS platform to help accelerate educational empowerment worldwide, support learners and professionals to gain the skills needed to succeed in the dynamic digitalized global economy, and advance sustainable and inclusive prosperity worldwide," said Sanjeev Khagram, director general and dean at ASU’s Thunderbird School of Global Management.


Interested learners can get more information and register for courses at http://100millionlearners.com.

FIRST IN MANILA: A 3D Whale Shark billboard, Space Tunnel, Golden Gateway and Dazzling Light shows- ALL Immersive experiences lead to SM

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

LOOK: A 3D Whale Shark Billboard, Space Tunnel, Golden Gateway and Dazzling Light shows take over the Holidays in Manila.

(Hero picture: 3D Whale and Space Tunnel)

SM Supermalls celebrates not just joyful, but also fun, immersive and experiential holidays. This year, we take you to the deep oceans with SM Megamall’s first-ever 3D Whale Shark LED billboard, see the Northern lights at the Aurora Trail of SM City North Edsa, Sparkle at the Light show and Holiday fireworks at SM Mall of Asia, enter the Golden gateway of SM Aura Premier and explore the outer space at the Mega Space Odyssey.

NORTH EDSA’S AURORA TRAIL

The illuminating lights of the Aurora Borealis is at the North this Christmas. Walk and indulge in a family friendly immersive experience at the Aurora trail ascending the giant holiday tree with a magical array of lights, forestry, rein-bears & holiday polar express.

MEGA SPACE ODYSSEY & 3D WHALE SHARK

Travel to majestic galaxies in outer space and take photos and videos with your space explorer friends.

Experience the first-ever immersive 3D LED tunnel in Manila on October 21 to December 25 at the ground level Mega Fashion Hall (at the back of the Giant Christmas Tree).

SM Supermalls introduces the new 3D technology along EDSA by screening a hyper-realistic 3D Whale Shark at SM Megamall’s LED billboard. Bringing you the first in the Philippines, High-Definition Immersive content at the heart of the bustling metropolis. Netizens are awestruck of a larger-than-life Whale Shark peeking out of a digital billboard spanning over 2,000 square foot. The Mega Whale Shark was first teased on April 27 but customers, tourists and motorists can catch the short preview every 15 minutes starting April 28 at peak hours from 12nn to 10pm daily. Watch out for the new 3D content this Christmas.

The Philippines has the 2nd largest population of whale shark in the world at over 1,950.

MOA SPARKLE OF LIGHT SHOW AND HOLIDAY FIREWORKS

Feel the Christmas spirit as you watch the brightest and merriest indoor Christmas tree music and lights show. Be in awe as you watch over one hundred thousand lights set to music. Catch the show DAILY, every hour from 10am to 10pm until end of December at the Central Atrium.

Enjoy the most awaited and better than ever fireworks display at the MOA Complex every Friday and Saturday from November to December 2022. Make sure to experience this magical moment with your families and loved ones.

AURA’s GOLDEN GATEWAY and NIGHTS OF DAZZLING LIGHTS

Tucked behind the giant Christmas tree is a golden gemstone-shaped immersive experience. In partnership with global smartphone brand TECNO Mobile, technology and art meet to transport all who enter this enclosure into scenes of an opulent holiday palace and fantastical golden worlds. Simply present PHP 1,000 in single or collected receipts and enter a whole new world filled with glitz and glamour.

The theatrical room isn’t the only technological experience the mall has. Equally spectacular is a choreographed light and sound display at SM Aura Premier’s Skypark at Level 5. Visitors of the Skypark enter a space with tall tree-like sculptures made of strings of lights. As they go through a forest of lights, ajaw-dropping musical show will entrance and excite them. Visitors can stop and enjoy the choreographed audio and visual performance at 7pm on all Sunday nights of December, including December 25th itself.

It’s a Happy Christmas at SM Supermalls!

Wazzup Pilipinas!?




SM Megamall starts to spread sparks of happiness with an out-of-this-world Christmas event

SM Supermalls brings back the excitement in every visit, joy in every sight, and a magical connection in every experience that will make every Filipino’s Christmas happier and brighter.


Ode to outer space: An out-of-this-world celebration starts at SM Megamall

SM officially ushered the holiday season with an out-of-this-world celebration at the Mega & Bright: Christmas in Space 2022 at the SM Megamall on October 20.

The mall’s mega Christmas Tree decked in stars and lights was lit, signaling the start of SM’s nationwide Happy Christmas campaign. And starting October 20 until December, SM shoppers can have a glimpse of the universe through SM Megamall’s Mega Space Odyssey. The 3D LED tunnel transports individuals into space and allows them to view it immersively.

If you missed the SM Megamall Christmas event, there are still more ways to celebrate the joys of the holidays. SM Supermalls has lined up exciting and festive activities just for you and your loved ones! Check out the details below:



More Christmas Tree lighting activities in your favorite SM mall!

Apart from SM Megamall, other premier SM malls will light up their massive 50-foot Christmas trees to share hope, joy, and love with every SM shopper. Check out the dates below so you can drop by your favorite SM mall and watch the lighting of its dazzling trees full of lights, stars, and colorful ornaments.




Santa-approved Christmas Playpark

Witness as your favorite SM mall opens a new world of Christmas with towering centerpieces, functional spaces, and sprawling activities at the Christmas Playpark. Explore the Christmas markets and play areas, and watch out for Santa appearances, character meet and greets, and other surprises! Plus, you also get to have a multisensory experience at the playpark’s light and sound shows, festive eats and holiday treats, and a whole lot more scents and feels that will embrace you in holiday warmth and ambiance.



Sparkling lights to brighten up your holidays

Christmas won’t be festive without lights. Be in awe as you pass by hallways decked with twinkling lights, illuminated tunnels, beaming driveways, and lit parking spaces as they glow at their best.



Dining out al fresco style at the Super Spots decked with lights

SM Supermalls has also created outdoor attractions for that picture-perfect, memorable shopping, dining, and leisure activities for the whole family. At The Podium, shoppers are in for Joie De Vivre with its Holiday Night Cap on October 21-23 and 28-30 at the ADB Al Fresco, and the Food Lab on October 24-30 at the Atrium East Level 2 so everyone can discover new food specials this Christmas. You can also enjoy special treats, promos, and exclusive deals from your favorite restaurants and food merchants at the SM mall near you!



Turn Christmas AReality at SM

Don’t miss out on a phygital Christmas experience as SM incorporates the festive season with Augmented Reality. In SM Megamall, four AR filters have been made available, including Santa Claus, Reindeer, Snowman, and Sparkle. You just need to scan the QR code at the SM mall near you and see the Christmas centerpiece and magical spots come alive!



Check out the Happiness Stations

SM installed various happiness stations where you can create lasting memories with family and friends. Spot the giant bears with lights at Bears of Joy corner, the happiness photo wall, the Christmas tree decors with your family photos, or the huge TV screen where you can watch your recently filmed Tiktok or IG video at your favorite mall.



Make your furbabies feel the happiness and love

Christmas is for the whole family including furbabies! Make them happy and feel loved by joining the Holiday Paw Play Dates and Costume PAWty. You can also flex them at the Christmas photo challenge and win amazing prizes, or shop for them at the Christmas markets. Also, SM Supermalls will be partnering again with organizations for a pet adoption drive so you can help the little ones find a home in time for the holiday.



Unlock a bigger, better, and brighter virtual Christmas Village

SM will reopen its virtual Christmas Village to bring an exciting, engaging, and rewarding holiday experience to Filipinos. Check out https://gosm.link/ChristmasVillage2022 as it goes live from October 28 to January 5 for an awesome augmented reality shopping, dining, and leisure experience. Create your own avatar, e-meet fellow shoppers and SM ambassadors, and enjoy bonding time with your family and friends while playing fun games at the immersive virtual Christmas zones made for you.



Create circles of happiness by buying products for cause-oriented programs

Since it’s the season of giving, you can support cause-oriented advocacies of individuals and organizations by purchasing products that provide opportunities and livelihood to marginalized sectors. For this year’s 100 Days campaign, SM partnered with bag designer Zarah Juan, Spark PH, the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP), the Association of Foot and Mouth Artists of the Philippines, and the Quezon City LGU for its Vote to Tote initiative.



“This Christmas, we are sending a message of happiness to every Filipino. With every activity we have for them, we hope to inspire everyone to spread sparks of happiness in their homes and communities as we celebrate this year’s holiday festivities,” said Steven T. Tan, president of SM Supermalls.



A new light of experiences will bring happiness and kindness to every Filipino as SM Supermalls create more magical memories and opportunities to touch other people’s lives this holiday season. Check out www.smsupermalls.com and follow @smsupermalls on all social media accounts to stay updated on the various holiday happenings.