Caloy as the new People's Champ

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



The only eight division Boxing World Champion in the history of the sport, Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao dominated the Filipino masses for decades. The legendary boxer rewarded the country with countless exciting moments and pride all over the world.

Pacquiao's legacy is forever etched in the hearts of the Filipinos. He is an immortal-like figure and icon that no one ever imagined that the day would come when a new star on the block would rise.

Enter Carlos Yulo. The Filipino gymnast and two-time gold medalist in the 2024 Paris Olympics after conquering the vault and floor exercise of the Olympics gymnastics event. What is even surprising here is he is just scratching the surface of his potential.

Yulo is truly a wunderkind and a generational talent much like Manny Pacquiao. Did we ever think of having a gymnastics superstar? For all we know, the Philippines is predominantly a basketball country.

Carlos or "Caloy" as he is fondly called like his predecessor Manny who had the "Pacman" alias is just starting his golden dynasty. The country is truly lucky to witness the making of the new People's Champ. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!

Written by: Miles Alimangohan

Nesthy's Cup of Tea

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Defining your own cup of tea as an idiomatic expression that means something you like or something you're really good at. This is exactly what made Nesthy Petecio a household name and an icon for generations to come. 

The Filipina Boxer started her boxing journey as a mere self-defense in her youth days in Davao. What was thought as a pastime ultimately became a passion as she went on to participate in local competitions to provide for her family. 

Petecio was discovered by local coaches in Davao after a winning a bout against a bigger opponent and a man, proving that gender knows no hindrances. She was then invited to join the national boxing team. 

Nesthy got her first taste of medal when she captured silver in the 2011 Southeast Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia. Petecio went on to garner 2 more silvers, 1 bronze and 2 golds for a spectacular track record in the region. 

Petecio levelled up and started her olympic brilliance when she won the Silver medal in the first Womens Featherweight event in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after a masterful performance against Irma Testa of Italy in the semi-final round. 

The prizefighter recently made the country proud again after bagging her second consecutive olympic medal. This time, winning the bronze award after a gallant stand against Julia Szremeta of Poland. 

Nesthy's courage and determination as a Filipina boxer changed the narrative of the sport of boxing where men usually dominate. She broke barriers untouched and went on to show the world that the Filipina can excel in boxing too. 

A proven winner in every competition she's in. We can all justify that it's fair to ask and wonder what Nesthy's Cup of Tea is? I guess it's basically known at this point; ultimately winning in life.

Written by: Miles Alimangohan

Angara Meets with DepEd-National Employees Union to Address Concerns of Non Teaching Personnel

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



On Tuesday, Education Secretary Sonny Angara met with the Department of Education-National Employees Union (DepEd-NEU) National Executive Officers and National Board of Trustees at the DepEd Central Office to discuss and address the concerns of non-teaching personnel.

Accompanied by DepEd NEU National President Atty. Domingo B. Alidon, Undersecretary for Finance Annalyn M. Sevilla, OIC-Undersecretary for Human Resource and Organizational Development and Administration Wilfredo E. Cabral, Undersecretary for Operations Atty. Revsee Escobedo, and other DepEd and DepEd-NEU officials, the meeting focused on the issues raised by the NEU and worked on developing resolutions to benefit the Department’s staff.

One of the key topics discussed was the DepEd NEU’s proposal to review DepEd Order No. 002, s. 2024, which mandates the immediate removal of administrative tasks from public school teachers.

“We will track everything. I will assign HR and the Operations team to take note of all the suggestions. There are many professions involved, and I am sure we can create a career path progression. It may take time, so please bear with us, but we will study it thoroughly,” Secretary Angara said.

DepEd-NEU also suggested allocating the 2023 Collective Negotiation Agreement Incentive (CNAI) of P3,000, including savings pooled from DepEd Field offices, and a retirement benefit of P20,000 for DepEd Non-Teaching Employees across all governance levels.

Meanwhile, DepEd-NEU recommended that the Department issue a directive to ensure representation for non-teaching personnel and implement the CNA in Local School Boards (LSB).

“Since DepEd-NEU is the sole non-academic union of DepEd, we will remind our superintendents and regional officials to recommend their inclusion in the LSB,” Usec. Escobedo emphasized.

In addition, DepEd-NEU proposed the formation of the DepEd Union Management Coordinating Council (UMCC) to strengthen the implementation of the welfare benefits as stated in the CNA.

DepEd and PSAC Jobs Committe Sign Agreement to Enhance Student Skills and Employability

Wazzup Pilipinas!?




In an effort to boost the employability of senior high school students, the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) Jobs Committee, through the Private Sector Jobs and Skills Corporation (PCORP), signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to pilot an enhanced work immersion program. The signing, which took place on August 8, 2024, in Malacañang Palace and was witnessed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., marks a significant public-private collaboration.

The PSAC Jobs members, together with PSAC strategic convener Sabin Aboitiz, organized PCORP as a non-profit, non-stock corporation as its legal entity to organize a well-coordinated government-industry-academe national movement to solve the jobs and skills mismatch problem in the country.

The MOA outlines key elements including an enhanced work immersion experience for students, curriculum alignment allowing more hours for students to learn skills aligned with current industry standards, teachers training to effectively guide students in their journey and lastly job fairs and matching opportunities nationwide.

This initiative aims to bridge the gap between theoretical education and practical industry experience, making students more attractive to potential employers.

Among the first responders from industry to open their doors to the enhanced work immersion program for senior high schools are the Semiconductors and Electronics Industries in the Philippines (SEIPI), IT Business Processing Association of the Philippines (IBPAP), Philippine Constructors Association (PCA), Confederation of Wearables Exporters of the Philippines (CONWEP), Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), iPeople through the National Teachers College (NTC), SM Group and Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (Go Negosyo).

Ten schools from north to south, including one specialized in the Alternative Learning System (ALS), is set to participate in the pilot program. These schools can choose focus areas such as IT-BPM, tourism and hospitality, agriculture and entrepreneurship, and manufacturing, sectors which are known for their high demand for workers and abundant job opportunities.

DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara is fully supportive of this important step towards student employability. “This MOA gives our students the opportunity to gain hands-on work experience while still studying. In that way, it follows the President’s marching orders to us to do everything we can to improve the quality of our education and boost the chances of our graduates at landing better earning opportunities.”

DepEd and PSAC Jobs, along with school heads and industry partners, have been conducting workshops and consultations to establish guidelines for the pilot program that is set to begin in the 2024-2025 school year.

“This partnership marks a significant milestone in our efforts to prepare the next generation for the workforce. By collaborating with DepEd and industry leaders, we can ensure that our students are job-ready and equipped with the skills needed in today’s competitive job market,” stated Joey Concepcion, PSAC Jobs Committee Lead.

MPT South Delivers Vital Relief to Communities Impacted by Typhoon Carina

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a compassionate display of corporate social responsibility, Metro Pacific Tollways South (MPT South), a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), sprang into action to provide critical aid to communities devastated by the wrath of Typhoon Carina that hit Metro Manila and Cavite. On August 5 and 6, 2024, MPT South delivered a total of 600 relief packages to affected host communities, including Brgy. Pulvorista and Aplaya in Kawit, Brgy. Talaba II in Bacoor, Brgy. Tambo, Don Galo, and San Dionisio in Parañaque, and Barangay 201 in Pasay City. 

Recognizing the profound impact of the storm, MPT South also shared 100 relief packages with its valued partners, the Philippine Navy and the Alliance of Concerned Transport Organization (ACTO), underscoring the company's commitment to supporting a wide network of stakeholders. 

“We hope these relief packages will help families and communities see that there is always hope, even in these trying times,” said Arlette V. Capistrano, Vice President for Communication and Stakeholder Management at MPT South. “It is essential that we support each other in any way we can.”

This swift and compassionate response from MPT South demonstrates the company's unwavering commitment to its corporate mission and responsibility to support its host communities, especially in times of crisis. MPT South, together with the people who revolve around it, embodies the strong sense of 'Bayanihan' – a uniquely Filipino spirit of community, cooperation, and mutual aid – and is dedicated to sharing this spirit with those in greatest need. 

MPT South is a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), the infrastructure arm of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC). Aside from the CALAX and CAVITEX network of toll roads, MPTC’s domestic portfolio includes the concessions for the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), the NLEX Connector Road, the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) and the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) in Cebu.

Lux Medical Aesthetic Clinic Launches HIFU Ultraformer MPT for Skin Tightening in Singapore

 

Lux Medical Aesthetic Clinic is proud to announce the launch of the HIFU Ultraformer MPT. This device marks a significant advancement in non-surgical skin tightening and lifting treatments, offering patients a comfortable and highly effective solution.

Ageing is normal. However, most people do what they can to maintain a youthful appearance but are faced with challenges in maintaining firm and youthful skin due to factors such as sun exposure and lifestyle choices.

Lux Medical Aesthetic Clinic understands that good skin and appearance empower and instill confidence. That’s why we are introducing HIFU Ultraformer MPT, which is a testament to our commitment to bringing the latest and effective aesthetic solutions to our clients.

The Ultraformer MPT addresses people’s concerns about maintaining a youthful appearance by providing a non-invasive solution that lifts and tightens the skin on the face, neck, and décolletage. It targets skin laxity and wrinkles, offering patients a refreshed and rejuvenated appearance.

HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) technology has been used in the medical field for decades, particularly in the treatment of cancer and other diseases. Now, it has been adapted to address common skin concerns such as sagging skin, wrinkles, and fine lines.

The HIFU Ultraformer MPT is an updated version of the HIFU Ultraformer III treatment that uses micro-pulsed technology to target deeper skin layers with less pain and stimulate collagen production within a faster treatment time. It also utilises booster handpieces that help target smaller hard-to-reach areas.

HIFU Ultraformer MPT results in the tightening of collagen fibres to improve elasticity and create a lifting effect on the skin – a refreshed, firmer and smoother appearance. For added benefit, it can be used with skin-brightening serums.

“See the beauty in everything. Begin with yourself.” -  Dr Kellyn Shiau, founder of Lux Medical Aesthetic Clinic, encourages self-care as the first step to confidence and beauty. With the launch of HIFU Ultraformer MPT, patients can grasp a solution to maintain their youthful appearance with more comfort and efficiency.

Experience HIFU Ultraformer MPT at Lux Medical Aesthetic Clinic and unlock the confidence that comes with naturally beautiful skin. Visit them at Novena Specialist Center, 8 Sinaran Drive #06-15, Singapore 307470, or contact them through phone: +65 6815 9922 and Whatsapp: +65 8866 9922. You may reach them through email at consult@luxaestheticclinic.com.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

Celebrate National Day with Musical Touch's Tribute Video by Local Musicians Highlighting “Together, As One United People”

  

Featuring local multilingual songs as a symbol of the collective strength and diversity of Singaporeans in the performing arts industry

This National Day, Musical Touch is proud to present a celebratory tribute video in line with the theme "Together, As One United People," which highlights the collective strength of Singapore local musicians and locally produced songs. This heartwarming video is in conjunction with Singapore’s 59th birthday to celebrate the occasion and uplift those around through the joy of music.

Featuring a medley of our beloved local and NDP songs that all ages can sing along to and filmed at iconic locations across Singapore, this video serves to honour the immense progress Singapore has achieved since independence and to pay homage to all things that make us who we are - from our globally recognised architecture to the hawker stalls and to family and kinship. This musical medley aims to foster the national spirit and as an expression of appreciation to the extraordinary talent that Singapore has produced.

Filmed over 20 days, the video is a tribute to the musical talents that our country has produced over the years.

Some notable songs are:

"Count on Me Singapore"(1986), "Di-Tanjong Katong"(1930s period), "Stand Up for Singapore"(1984), "Munnaeru Vaalibaa"(1966), "Home"(2004), and "Where I Belong"(2001).

Parts of the video were filmed at iconic Singapore locations such as:

Jewel Changi Airport, The Singapore River, Sultan Mosque, Chinatown, Botanic Gardens, Orchard Road, The Singapore Flyer, The Esplanade, and Marina Bay.

About Musical Touch

Musical Touch, is a music events company which provides live performances for weddings and corporate events. Founded in 2012 by Alvin Khoo, an accomplished composer, arranger, and pianist who graduated Summa Cum Laude from Berklee College of Music.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

E911 National Office facilitates trial of cutting-edge next generation emergency response system for PNP

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



The Emergency 911 National Office of the DILG headed by Executive Director Francis Fajardo, partnered with Next Generation Advanced 911 (NGA 911) to spearhead the trialing of the next- generation emergency response system for the Philippine National Police. NGA 911 provided their patented emergency call handling system to the PNP so the national police can use the world-class, cutting-edge emergency communication system being used in the United States and in Europe.

The use of the new system was officially announced by PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil during the 123rd Police Service Anniversary of the National Police on August 8 at Camp Crame.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) will be better equipped to handle and respond to emergencies, natural disasters, human induced incidents and other distress calls very soon.

The E911 National Office through its executive director Francis Fajardo has facilitated the trial of a cutting edge, next generation 911 system by the PNP that will provide it with world-class emergency response capabilities like that used in the US and Europe.

Taking his cue from the current administration’s focus on quick response and resilience in the face of disasters and emergencies, and the directive of DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos’ to make the national emergency program adapt to the digital age by making it useful for all forms of public emergency calls countrywide, the Executive Director has asked NGA 911 (Next Generation Advanced 911)/NGCS to provide the national police with its patented call handling system.

NGA 911 LLC (Next Generation Advanced 911) is the global innovator of the emergency calling technology and leader in next generation emergency communications worldwide, with NGA 911 Philippines/NGCS as its subsidiary.

The state of the art NGA 911 call handling system will let the PNP respond to distress calls and provide emergency response in unprecedented speed with accurate pinpointing of location.

NG911 is a digital, internet protocol (IP)-based system that will replace the analog 911 infrastructure that's been around for decades. The call handling system that will be trialed by the PNP will include the hardware, software, data and all the procedures and policies that relate to answering every emergency request for help.

Emergency number services will be enhanced by creating a faster, more resilient system that allows digital information (e.g., voice, photos, videos, text messages) to flow seamlessly from the public, through the 911 network and eventually, directly to first responders.

Robert Llaguno, Country Head of NGA 911 Philippines says “The unique features of NGA's technology; that is, IoT capabilities, international, global standards; resiliency and redundancy and the ability to provide the accurate location of the caller, will give the national police the capability to respond efficiently and accurately to emergency callers. For example, when someone calls 911, the location of that particular caller is immediately provided and the search radius is limited to just about 5 yards with 90% accuracy. “

“On top of that, NGA technology is able to integrate various types of available systems or applications. We can integrate with local government's CCTV systems and provide enhanced location and situational awareness for front liners and first responders. We can integrate with instant messaging applications and provide an omnichannel queue. Emergency 911 services can now be accessed through SMS or instant messaging apps, targeting the millennial population of our nation. NGA's technology is also fully redundant and telco-agnostic, providing 99.999% of uninterrupted service and uptime guarantee. It will future-proof the emergency response capabilities of the PNP,” Llaguno explained.

At the moment, the town of Morong, Rizal is the first municipality in the country and in Southeast Asia to harness NGA 911’s next generation advanced technology to provide leveled up public safety and service to its residents. Alaminos, Pangasinan, Cagayan De Oro City and Cebu City will soon also have their next generation emergency response command centers in place.

7th imake.wemake makes way for bolder innovations and braver, more passionate young innovators

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

While the imake.wemake:create.innovate.collaborate competition has long proven to be an effective platform for championing groundbreaking innovations, this year’s cycle proves to be even more rewarding as it continuous to nurture young makers who are much driven and empowered to innovate for a greater purpose – to create a better Philippines.

“Madali lang yung thought na gumawa ng mga innovations. But it’s more of that passion to make outright changes and help create a better country na makakapag-push sayo na gumawa. And I hope this passion will not burn out in me,” said Czalei Ajesha M. Seguro of Masbate National Comprehensive High School, one of the school finalists who battled it out at the recent run of imake.wemake.

And Czalei is evidence of how the imake.wemake competition has continuously welcomed, honed, and developed more doers of today – sheltering young makers who know what, where, and how to innovate; why there is a need to innovate; and who they are doing it for.

After months of research and preparation, the top 20 school finalists of the 7th imake.wemake competition have finally showcased their cool and unique innovations that mirror realities – the long-existing societal issues and problems happening in communities - and forward a scientific cause.

On July 25 and 26, 2024, the Department of Science and Technology - Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) proceeded with the final phase of the 7th imake.wemake competition – the Final Presentation, which is the culmination of months-long concept mapping, intensive training, and a dedicated build period where the participants brought their ideas to life, all with the goal to invent the future.

Besting 20 astonishing and trailblazing projects were innovations that aim to a) leverage capabilities of persons with disabilities, particularly the visually impaired community; b) enhance agricultural productivity of the country, and c) address the pressing need for reliable and accessible electricity in underserved communities.

The young makers basked in their well-deserved moment of victory as they have been declared winners of the esteemed Youth Innovation Prize (YIP) Award presented by Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI), who is a years-long partner of imake.wemake.

Championing their project “Efficient Code Recognition and Enhanced Auditory Device (EC-READ): Reading Assistive Device for Visually Impaired,” Limay Senior High School emerged as one of the three recipients of the YIP Award.

EC READ is an assistive reading device that utilizes the Arduino platform to quickly identify and convert QR codes into auditory information, providing an affordable and efficient solution that significantly enhances the accessibility of both printed and digital materials for the visually impaired community.

The team from Iligan City National High School was also recognized as one of YIP awardees for their winning project “S.A.G.A.N.A: Smart Agriculture with Greenhouse Automated Nebulization and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Assessment.”

SAGANA proposes a smart aeroponic system integrated with AI-driven computer vision to enhance agricultural productivity in the Philippines. It features efficient nutrient circulation and AI-powered computer vision to monitor plant growth; thereby, addressing the challenges posed by traditional farming methods and climate change.

Completing this year’s roster of YIP awardees is the team from Bansud National High School - Regional Science High School for MIMAROPA, for their project “AQUASTELLAR: Development of an Alternative and Low-Cost Portable Lamp Using Various Electrolytes Derivative Solutions.”

AQUASTELLAR is an alternative and low-cost portable lamp designed to provide electricity in areas with unreliable or insufficient infrastructure. It uses detachable electrolyte cells, metal-metal electrodes, a 3D-printed chassis, and an Arduino Nano for intelligent control, making it suitable for both upland and lowland regions.

YIP Awardees were given certificates, a trophy, and a cash prize worth Php 200,000, courtesy of HCPI. The winning coaches also received Php 20,000 from DOST-SEI.

Limay Senior High School pose for a photo as they emerged as one of the three recipients of the YIP Award. [L-R] DOST-SEI Director III and OIC Albert G. Mariño, DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Honda Cars Philippines General Manager Ms. Aizza Te Tan-Flores, together with Limay SHS’s Marcus Dwayn R. Laoit, Mark Loyd Ocomen, Shammel R. Soria, Redgelson A. Sablang, and their coach Ms. Rowena V. Cabrera.

Iligan City National High School are all smiles as they were recognized as one of 7th imake.wemake’s YIP awardees. [L-R] Representatives of DOST, DOST-SEI, and Honda Cars Philippines, together with Iligan City NHS’s Coach Eileen Villaruz, Ryan D. Gabriel, Alessandra Elaina Minoza, Jiandale Ambal, and Aisah Esnaira Salic.

Bansud National High School - Regional Science High School for MIMAROPA get emotional as they were named as one of this year’s YIP awardees. [L-R] Representatives of DOST, DOST-SEI, and Honda Cars Philippines, together with Bansud NHS’s Caryl Joy Atienza, Ayen Denisse Rodriguez, Shennon Kate Deogracias, and Coach Alexis Albo.

Aside from the YIP Award, the DOST-SEI, in partnership with C&E Publishing, Inc., also conferred the C&E Adaptive Learning Solutions (CEALS) Arduino Science Kreators Award to deserving school teams who have demonstrated exceptional creativity, technical skills, and innovative use of Arduino technology to address real-world challenges.

Masbate National Comprehensive High School won the award for their project “SILEYE: Object Detection and Identification Headgear with Voice Output for Learning of Visually Impaired Persons,” an assistive headgear that utilizes Arduino Portenta H7 and Arduino Nicla Vision to provide visually impaired individuals with enhanced environmental awareness and navigation capabilities.

Rizal National Science High School also secured the Arduino Science Kreators Award with their project “SALAMUHA: Filipino Sign Language Assistive System via Convolutional Neural Network for Holistic Learning and Inclusive Communication,” a plug-and-play sign language assistive system that aims to enhance deaf education through real-time finger and hand gesture detection.

Bantayan Science High School triumphed in with their innovation “PROJECT BASSA: An IoT-Based Buoy Automatic Sanctuary Security Assistance,” which is designed to monitor and protect the Philippine marine sanctuaries in real-time.

Each winning team received a set of Arduino Science Kit, courtesy of C&E Publishing, Inc.

Masbate National Comprehensive High School, Rizal National Science High School, and Bantayan Science High School enjoy their victorious moment as they were presented with CEALS Arduino Science Kreators Award.

The C&E Publishing, Inc. also presented the CEALS Innovation Award to the team whose project showcases exceptional design utilizing the Arduino platform and demonstrates strong market potential, hence, leveraging the creative thinking and transformative ideas of the youth to make a positive impact in the country.

City of Bogo Senior High School snatched the said Innovation Award with their project “AGRIGENT: Enhancing Greenhouse Agriculture with IoT-Enabled Automated Fertigation and Rainwater Harvesting System for Improved Crop Growth and Water Efficiency,” which aims to enhance agricultural efficiency in the Philippines, especially in water-scarce regions like Cebu City. The team received a cash prize worth Php 200,000, courtesy of C&E Publishing, Inc.

City of Bogo Senior High School pose for a photo as they received the CEALS Innovation Award. [L-R] C&E Publishing, Inc.’s Head of Business Development and Product Management Asela Javier, DOST-SEI Director III and OIC Engr. Albert Mariño, and DOST Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum Jr., together with City of Bogo SHS’s Analie Pedrano, Andrei Miguel Reformina, Rose Feth Catadman, Drexkhyle Jurial, and Coach Kent Jaspher Ytang.

Gokongwei Brothers Foundation (GBF), a long-standing partner of imake.wemake, also presented the Young Scientist Award (YSA), which is equivalent to a conditional scholarship worth up to Php 85,000 annual grant, to deserving students who display commitment in pursuing STEM as a future career and embody outstanding values such as hard work, grit, and innovativeness to becoming the country’s future nation-builders.

Bansud National High School - Regional Science High School for MIMAROPA’s Shennon Kate P. Deogracias, Iligan City National High School’s Alessandra Elaine S. Miñoza and Aisah Esnaira R. Salic, and Limay Senior High School’s Marcus Dwayne R. Laoit were conferred the GBF YSA.

With the said scholarship, the awardees can pursue a STEM course of their choice at any university or college within the country.

Shennon Kate P. Deogracias, Alessandra Elaine S. Miñoza, Aisah Esnaira R. Salic, and Marcus Dwayne R. Laoit are all smiles as they were conferred the GBF Young Scientist Award.

The DOST-SEI thanks its partners, Honda Cars Philippines, Inc., C&E Publishing, Inc., and Gokongwei Brothers Foundation, for sharing in the advocacy to create more doers and thinkers of today and for investing in the potential of the youth to be the country’s future changemakers, through the imake.wemake competition.

The powerhouse panel of experts that helped in recognizing and naming this year’s brightest ideas and most groundbreaking solutions were Engr. Percival Magpantay of University of the Philippines Diliman Electrical and Electronics Engineering Institute, Engr. Carlos Matti Oppus of Ateneo de Manila University School of Science and Engineering, Engr. Edison Roxas of the University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Engineering, Engr. Wilfredo Calaguan of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines - Intellectual Property Business Services and Development Division, Mr. Daniel Capuyan of JG Summit Holdings, Inc., and Mr. Rodel Cruz of C&E Publishing, Inc. Their unwavering support, expertise, and undying dedication have been instrumental in making the 7th imake.wemake a success.

The imake.wemake competition has long established its value in fostering the Filipino youth’s drive in creating innovations that forward an impact. More than the goal of winning, it is much dedicated to nurture young innovators’ passion to make a difference and shape a better Philippines for Filipinos. And this remains true in its recently concluded cycle.

As Risha Andrea Lemoncito of Camarines Sur National High School said, “Don’t be afraid to fail. Kasi doon ka matututo. Hindi talaga madaling gumawa ng research at innovation. Tulad namin, marami kaming failures and errors because of our shortcomings. Pero nag-push through pa rin kami. At least, kahit hindi kami manalo, we know we tried our best. We innovated something that can contribute to the society.”

DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr. applauds imake.wemake for its commitment to inspire and empower students to make a change and hopes that their innovations can be championed to forward wealth creation and prosperity for the nation and its people.

“I am looking forward for your projects to reach its target audience, the Filipino masses, and to embody the ‘agham na mararamdaman ng bawat Pilipino,’” said Sec. Solidum.

DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum gives an inspiring message to the winners and finalists of the 7th imake.wemake, commending them for their passion to create a better future.

With the culmination of the 7th imake.wemake, the DOST-SEI officially opens the competition’s 8th cycle, still highlighting the importance of science and innovation in driving progress and emphasizing the youth’s role in inventing the future.

Nebrija en Filipinas: A Journey Through Philippine Languages at the UST Library

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



Instituto Cervantes and the University of Santo Tomas Miguel de Benavides Library, in partnership with the Embassy of Spain in the Philippines, the Antonio de Nebrija Foundation (Madrid), the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID), and the National Library of Spain, is proud to present “Nebrija en Filipinas.” This prestigious exhibit, originally curated by Teresa Jiménez Calvente with contributions from Marlon James Sales of the University of the Philippines Diliman, will feature the works of Antonio de Nebrija from August 22, 2024, to November 22, 2024, at the Exhibit Area of the UST Miguel de Benavides Library.

Embark on a unique cultural odyssey into the pioneering legacy of Elio Antonio de Nebrija, a renowned Spanish grammarian whose contributions profoundly influenced linguistic milestones in the Philippines and the world. Nebrija's works inspired the creation of missionary grammar and vocabulary for native Amerindian and Philippine languages.

Instituto Cervantes previously displayed this exhibit in Intramuros from March 12 to July 20, 2024. The exhibit is an adaptation of the Nebrija exhibition by the National Library of Spain, commemorating the quincentennial anniversary of Nebrija’s legacy. Featuring immersive panels and rare book displays, the exhibition vividly showcases Nebrija’s cultural contributions and contextualizes his influence on the earliest grammars of Philippine vernacular languages, shaped by his pioneering teachings.

Recognized as the oldest library in the country, the Miguel de Benavides Library houses several works of Nebrija, including Collectanea de variis auctoribus (1541-1549), the two-volume Dictionarium redivivum (1754), and Aelii Antonii Nebrissenis De Institutione Grammaticae libri quinque (1816), which are now located in the Antonio Vivencio del Rosario UST Heritage Library. Moreover, the Heritage Library also holds numerous works on grammar and dictionaries of various Philippine languages, including Arte de la Lengua Bisaya de la Provincia de Leyte (1663), Arte de la Lengua Tagala y Manual Tagalog (1796), and Arte de la Lengua Zebuana (1836), among others.

Join us at the UST Miguel de Benavides Library to explore Nebrija’s enduring legacy and profound impact on languages and scholarship in an exhibit that promises to enlighten and inspire, resonating through centuries and across continents.

For further information about the cultural program of Instituto Cervantes de Manila, please visit their website (https://manila.cervantes.es), or follow Instituto Cervantes on the following social media pages: (Facebook: InstitutoCervantesManila; Instagram: institutocervantesmanila).

Angara directs offices to fill all vacant positions in DepEd

Wazzup Pilipinas!?


To ensure effective and efficient delivery of basic education services at all governance levels, Education Secretary Sonny Angara has directed offices in the Department to fill all vacant positions.

In DepEd Memorandum No. 42, s. 2024, DepEd Bureau and Service Directors in the Central Office, Regional Directors (RDs), and Schools Division Superintendents (SDSs) are instructed to exhaust all measures to expedite the hiring and filling up of all vacant DepEd-authorized positions, including the newly created teaching and school-based non-teaching positions for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024.

Based on the Department of Budget and Management-Government Manpower Information System (DBM-GMIS) as of May 2024, DepEd has 46,703 (4.53%) vacant positions out of 1,030,897 total authorized positions, which can be attributed to several reasons based on gathered reports.

The identified remaining vacant items pose a challenge to the operations of offices and the absorptive capacity of DepEd.

Further, DepEd directs all field offices to accomplish a catch-up plan, which can be downloaded through the link: bit.ly/UnfilledCatchUpPlan. The completed catch-up plan must be submitted to the Bureau of Human Resource and Organizational Development-Personnel Division (BHROD-PD) through the link: bit.ly/HiringCatchUpPlan on or before August 9, 2024.

Moreover, all DepEd offices are instructed to timely update the Personal Services Itemization and Plantilla of Personnel and the DBM-GMIS database. Other monitoring tools, such as the Program Management Information System, Quick Count for FY 2024 items, and the Deployment Monitoring Tool for school-based non-teaching items shall likewise be updated.

BAN Toxics Warns Consumers of Thailand-Made Cosmetic Products Tainted with Toxic Mercury

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



Toxic watchdog group BAN Toxics has raised the alarm against the online sale of Thailand-made skin lightening products (SLPs) that are contaminated with mercury – a known chemical hazard to human health and the environment.

In a recent online market monitoring, the group identified and purchased four (4) variants of the Dr. Yanhee Facial Cream Set in blue, green, purple, and red containers. Priced at P270, the sets include a soap, moisturizer, and day and night creams, with all labels written in Thai. The group has documented more than 50 sellers of these cosmetic products on popular e-commerce platforms Lazada and Shopee.

Each set comes with different applications: the blue set is for melasma and freckles, the green set is for anti-acne, the purple set is for gluta whitening, and the red set is for vitamins and glutathione. The products claim to be safe for teenagers, pregnant, and lactating mothers, with labels stating “No Mercury” and “No Hydroquinone.” They also claim to have been tested by Yanhee International Hospital, and certified by ISO and FDA.

“Consumers should take extra care not to be deceived by false advertisements that claim to be safe, effective, and free of harmful ingredients while hiding the danger of toxic mercury in cosmetic products,” said BAN Toxics Campaigner Thony Dizon.

Using a Vanta C Series HH XRF Analyzer, the group found high concentrations of mercury ranging from 11,300 to as high as 23,800 parts per million (ppm). This significantly exceeds the allowable limit of 1 ppm mercury content for SLPs set by the Minamata Convention on Mercury, a global treaty to which the Philippine Government is a party. The DENR and FDA regulations, as well as the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive, also adhere to the 1 ppm limit.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mercury and hazardous substances in cosmetics can cause kidney damage, skin rashes, discoloration, scarring, increased susceptibility to infections, anxiety, depression, psychosis, and peripheral neuropathy. For expecting mothers, exposure to these toxins is especially concerning due to potential transfer to the fetus through the placenta and breast milk. Such exposure during fetal development and infancy could lead to lasting health risks.

The group has been monitoring the proliferation of mercury-tainted SLPs for the past years and calling the attention of regulatory agencies such as the FDA and DTI for enforcement actions to end the illegal trading of mercury-added products in both online and on-site markets in the country.

“The existing health and e-commerce regulations in the country should restrain online shopping platforms from continuously marketing unnotified, unregistered, and prohibited SLPs. The consumer’s right to health and safety must be protected and safeguarded.”

“We reiterate our appeal to online shopping platforms to take corrective action against cosmetic products that do not have proper authorization from the FDA. The deceitful actions of online sellers jeopardize public health and safety through toxic chemical exposure,” the group added.

The group communicated its findings to the Food and Drug Administration, urging it to conduct post-market surveillance, issue a public health warning to halt the unauthorized sale of Thailand-made skin lightening products tainted with mercury. The group also recommended reporting the issue to the ASEAN Post-Marketing Alert System (PMAS) to alert the FDA counterpart in Thailand.

Philippine Basketball as a cultural beacon of hope

Wazzup Pilipinas!?




Basketball is a sport created by James Naismith, a Canadian-American professor in December 1891 in Springfield, Massachusetts. What began as an attempt to get his students active and engaged, Basketball has become a global iconic sport that millions of followers around the world enjoy.

The American colonial period introduced the game of Basketball to the Philippines. When the country officially became part of FIBA (The International Basketball Federation, popularly known by the French acronym FIBA, Fédération Internationale de Basketball) in 1936, the Philippines made an instant impact in its debut in the 1936 Olympics, where we finished fifth, which remains as the best finish by an Asian team in the history of the tournament.

An upward view of a basketball hoop highlighting the Manila skyline. 

In the first basketball tournament of the 1951 Asian Games, the Philippines captured the gold medal with a team led by the legendary Carlos Loyzaga of San Beda and Lauro Mumar of Letran College.

Our great start continued when we also attained a bronze medal in the 1954 FIBA World Championships, once again the best Asian finish in the history of the competition. The Philippines will go on to dominate the FIBA Asia Championships where we won 4 gold medals starting in 1960 up until the early 70s.

A friendly match between Gilas Pilipinas and Taiwan Mustangs held last June 24, 2024 at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
 
Today, the Philippines remains one of Asia's elite basketball countries and Southeast Asia's best basketball nation. The country basks in the glory of hosting the recently concluded FIBA World Cup in Manila last August 2023. Not to mention the gold medals in the SEA Games (Southeast Asian Games) and Asian Games.

With all the accolades and victories, the Filipinos' passion for the game of basketball remains high. For numerous decades, the sport has remained the most popular in the country.

In every corner of the capital city of Manila in Luzon, and even in Visayas and Mindanao, you will either see a full-sized basketball court or a half-court setup where our countrymen from all walks of life play and enjoy.

The PBA (Philippine Basketball Association), established in 1975, is the oldest pay-for-play league in Asia and the second-oldest basketball association in the world. It has remained a pop culture icon for Filipinos who watch live games in venues, on television, and even on desktops and handheld devices.

When the global Coronavirus pandemic struck the globe in 2020, sports leagues around the world decided to forfeit their ongoing seasons and tournaments. The PBA, much like the NBA (National Basketball Association), remained and stood its ground to continue operating and provide quality basketball entertainment for Filipinos all over the world in the middle of the uncertainty of that time.

It is where Filipino resiliency truly lived up to its hype. Even after the trials and challenges, we continued to stand up and fight again. Not even the pandemic, the rainy season, or the heat of the summer can stop the country's passion for playing the game of basketball.

The mantra even became more evident when Gilas Pilipinas, the Men's National basketball team of the Philippines, ranked 37 in the world, defeated world number 6 Latvia for a historical upset win in the recently held FIBA Olympic Qualifying tournament in Riga, Latvia.

As we move forward to exciting times ahead for Philippine basketball, the dribbling sound of the ball for the Philippines and the Filipinos' love for basketball is like a heartbeat that we can hear. Every dribble signifies a beat. A true beacon of hope that never gives up.


Cover photo above: The basketball court of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 featuring the pre-game of Gilas Pilipinas versus China. Photo taken last September 9, 2024 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines. 

by Miles Alimangohan, RND

Angara Swiftly Confirmed by Commission on Appointments as Education Secretary

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



The Commission on Appointments (CA) acknowledged the leadership and competence of Education Secretary Sonny Angara as they quickly confirmed his ad-interim appointment on Wednesday.

The former senator smoothly navigated his confirmation process following the commendation from his former colleagues in Congress, highlighting his legislative achievements and commitment to education.

Senate President and CA Chairperson Francis Escudero officially declared Angara’s confirmation as DepEd Secretary after a motion from CA Majority Floor Leader Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte Jr. during the plenary session.

CA Education Committee Chairperson Sen. Raffy Tulfo expressed his full support to Angara’s confirmation, citing his experience in finance, along with his legislative accomplishments and effective leadership qualities such as open-mindedness, decisiveness, and being an educator at heart.

“With these reasons not even meaning to mention the Secretary’s academic achievements, awards, and public service work, I know that Sec. Sonny will be more than capable of leading the country to a better future, to the students that he will take under his wing,” Sen. Tulfo said.

Members of the CA, including Sen. Cynthia Villar, Sen. Grace Poe, Sen. Loren Legarda, Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, Sen. Bong Revilla, Sen. Bong Go, Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri, Sen. Ronald dela Rosa, Sen. Joel Villanueva, Rep. Ramon Guico Jr., Rep. Johnny Pimentel, Rep. Lanie Mercado-Revilla, Rep. Roy Loyola, Rep. Boboy Tupaz, Rep. Mercedes Alvarez, Rep. Jose Padiernos, Rep. Marvey Mariño, also commended Angara and wished him the best in his DepEd endeavor.

Prior, the CA Education Committee panel swiftly endorsed Angara’s appointment to the plenary with no questions asked as courtesy to the former senator, congressman, and CA member.

“The 12-member House contingent, would like to reiterate, has no further question regarding the fitness, competence, qualifications of the Honorable Secretary,” Rep. Villafuerte said.

Angara received the panel’s approval in less than five minutes, marking one of the fastest confirmations and earning the longest applause from the CA members.

Angara’s key accomplishments include laws that address the welfare and needs of teachers and students such as Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act, Excellence in Teacher Education Act, Inclusive Education Act, Alternative Learning System Act, Free College Law, Universal Access to Tertiary Education Act, Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013, Anti-Bullying Law, and Student Fare Discount.

WOCEE and WOSAS 2024: Entering a New Age of Technology

Wazzup Pilipinas!?




Worldbex Services International (WSI) returns to bring you a celebration of innovation and technology like no other with two events happening at the same time. The World of Consumer Electronics Expo 2024 (WOCEE) and the World of Safety and Security Expo 2024 (WOSAS) are now open at the SMX Convention Center Manila!

From August 7 to 10, visitors may come to the venue and experience the technological advancements that are making big rounds in the country! There are two events simultaneously running to highlight these advancements. WOCEE 2024 will focus on the advancements of technology through electronics. This event will explore the untapped potential of technology and its evolving state. In line with this, there will be new activities, topics, and even zones to showcase these new initiatives: this year’s Tech Talk seminars will include topics related to AI and Bitcoin. Meanwhile, our latest addition to WOCEE is the Gamers’ Den, a place for gamers and competitive e-sports players to hang out and share their love of competitive gaming through friendly competitions. WOSAS 2024 focuses on the security industry and the latest developments related to safety and protection. The different government offices of the Philippines are present to help promote their protection and services through their exhibits and SecuCon, a series of seminars that delve into topics related to security and how it has adapted into the “new normal”.

Gracing the opening ceremony for these events today at the SMX Convention Center Manila were Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano, represented by the Chief of Staff. Peter Eric Pardo; Hon Sec. Ivan John Uy, Department of Information and Communications Technology; H.E. Nasser Said Abdullah Al Manwari, Embassy of Oman; H.E. Dato' Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, Embassy of Malaysia; Mr. Michael Co, Managing Director of VTECO Computer Solutions Inc, and Mr. John Eric Alviz, VP and Head for Enterprise and International Marketing for PLDT Enterprise.

WSI believes that these two events will help bring forth the future of technology in the palm of your hands, and is excited to showcase what is in store for everyone. Come see innovation at its finest when you visit WOCEE 2024 and WOSAS 2024, which opens today until August 10, 2024, from 10 AM to 7 PM, at the SMX Convention Center.

WOCEE 2024 and WOSAS 2024 are events organized by Worldbex Services International. For inquiries and concerns, you may reach them at (02)8656-96-29, or email at inquire@worldbexevents.com for more info.

Lifeline 16-911 offers Carlos Yulo FREE Lifetime Lifeline membership

 

Double Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo has been awarded a lifetime membership to Lifeline 16-911, granting him free emergency ambulance transport for life in recognition of his outstanding achievement.

Manila, Philippines – Lifeline 16-911, the Philippines’ largest and most reliable ambulance service, today announced that Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo has been granted a lifetime membership to its services. This exclusive membership entitles Yulo to free ambulance transport in case of emergencies for life.

Known for its swift response times and world-class medical equipment, Lifeline has a proven track record of serving Filipinos, as well VIPs and dignitaries such as Pope Francis, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump. The company also provides services to major thoroughfares like the Skyway and NLEX, as well as key communities such as BGC and Rockwell.

“Carlos Yulo is a true inspiration to the Filipino people,” said Michael Deakin, President and CEO of Lifeline. “His dedication and hard work have brought immense pride to our country. We are honored to recognize his achievements by providing him with the highest level of emergency medical care.”

Lifeline is committed to supporting Filipino athletes and their pursuit of excellence. By offering Carlos Yulo a lifetime membership, Lifeline not only express it's gratitude for his accomplishments but also demonstrate our unwavering support for the Filipino sports community. We hope this gesture will inspire future generations of athletes to strive for greatness and know that Lifeline is here to support them on their journey.

About Lifeline 16-911

Lifeline 16-911 is the largest, fastest, and most reliable ambulance service in the Philippines. Lifeline has nearly 30 years of experience in the EMS industry, and in total has saved over 500,000 lives. Today Lifeline covers more than 5 million individuals daily for emergencies.

Hotline Number:
Landline: 16-911
Mobile. : (02) 8839-2525

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES 

PHILIPPINES HAS CHOSEN VENOM IN ITS COUNTRY-WIDE DIGITIZATION CAMPAIGN

 

Venom Foundation is excited to announce its proposal to digitize the Philippine government's accountable forms, including invoices, receipts, cash tickets, documentary stamps, and special bank receipts. Each item will be securely tracked and managed, representing the world's largest blockchain implementation. This showcases Venom's capability to handle extensive, sovereign-level projects.

A Shift in Blockchain Adoption: 

This project is a significant opportunity not just for Venom but for the entire blockchain industry. It marks a major shift in how governments view and use blockchain technology. By selecting Venom, the Philippine government is demonstrating a strong trust in blockchain as a secure, scalable, and efficient solution for national operations. This initiative will transform data, transaction, and record-keeping practices, setting new standards for transparency and efficiency.

Project Scope and National Impact: 

The Philippines plans to digitize approximately 10 billion transactions using Venom blockchain technology, marking a substantial step in the country's digitalization efforts. This project is expected to enhance transparency, reduce costs, and improve the efficiency and security of financial transactions across the nation. The initiative will have a broad impact, influencing daily life and commerce for the country's 115 million residents.

Strategic Choice and Technological Superiority: 

Initially, the Philippines considered IBM's Hyperledger for their digitization efforts but ultimately chose Venom. Venom's unmatched scalability, high throughput, security, and low transaction costs made it the best choice for both government and corporate needs. This decision supports the country's efforts to modernize financial operations, bringing efficiency and transparency, and helping to control inflation. Venom offers a strong foundation to manage the growing demands of this significant project.

Economic Potential and Benefits: 

The digital transformation driven by Venom blockchain could generate up to USD 101.3 billion (PHP 5 trillion) in annual economic value by 2030, representing about 27% of the Philippines' GDP in 2020. This economic growth could significantly improve citizens' quality of life and support infrastructure development.

Government Support and Vision: 

The National Printing Office (NPO) of the Philippines, which prints around 10 billion accountable forms annually, is leading this digitization effort with Venom. President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. prioritizes digitization to improve essential services and reduce corruption. He believes digital government records and services will enhance the country's planning, decision-making, and business processes.

Technological Leadership and Network Growth: 

The Philippines' potential adoption of Venom blockchain marks a new phase in the network's growth. The influx of billions of transactions will bring immense value to the network and introduce it to millions of new users, offering a model for other large-scale projects. This surge in transactions will also make being a validator on the Venom network more rewarding.

CEO's Perspective on Digital Transformation: 

Venom Foundation's CEO, Christopher Louis Tsu, emphasized the benefits of transitioning from paper to digital receipts. He highlighted the cost savings and significant use of Venom blockchain through hundreds of millions of Venom tokens annually. With its high transaction speed and low costs, Venom is positioning itself as a leader in institutional blockchain solutions.

By selecting Venom, the NPO and the Philippine government demonstrate their readiness to embrace advanced technologies for better governance and public service outcomes.

About the National Printing Office (NPO): 

NPO is the leading Recognized Government Printer in the Philippines, responsible for producing essential government forms and documents. This digitization project, supported by Venom’s blockchain technology, aims to improve the efficiency and security of government services.

For further details, please refer to the official Philippine government release: Venom Blockchain Boosts Digitization in the Philippines.

About Venom Foundation

Venom is a cutting-edge layer-0 and layer-1 network that seamlessly integrates with other independent networks thanks to innovative mesh technology. Anchored by a masterchain for overall state and consensus management, Venom supports unlimited autonomous workchains for user accounts, smart contracts, and dApps. Mesh technology optimizes inter-chain communication, ensuring speed and scalability. With rapid finality, comprehensive security, stability, and user-friendly interfaces, Venom is ideal for hosting CBDCs and large-scale platforms.

For more information, visit Venom Foundation at https://venom.foundation

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES

Media and Information Literacy: Biases and Fake New

Last time, information overload was presented as a challenge to digital entrepreneurs because of the massive proliferation of content that spreads in different platforms in digital media. Now, this article delves into the protection of the audiences in case they stumble upon fake news or unreliable contents. This is essential in order for media consumers to prevent themselves from harm like arriving to irrational conclusions or wrong economic decisions that can may result into buyer’s remorse. For these reasons, having strong media and information literacy skills is crucial

This article will dive into how the audiences can enhance their skills to spot credible sources of information and make informed decisions.

Identifying Credible Sources of Information. It is essential that when you consume content, think if it is credible. It is credible when it covers at least some of these characteristics:

· Authority: Look for information from recognized experts and organizations. Think leading consultants, research publications, and articles by experienced analysts.

· Accuracy: Always double-check information. Reliable sources will provide evidence, like data or citations. If it's about digital marketing trends, verify those stats and case studies.

· Objectivity: Be cautious of biased content. Look for balanced views from multiple perspectives, especially when it comes to things like market analysis or customer research.

· Currency: The digital world changes rapidly, so make sure your information is up-to-date. This is key in fast-moving fields like technology and marketing.

· Relevance: Ensure the information directly applies to your decision-making process. So, ensure that the information you have is correct. Do your due diligence to get the right information such as researching blogs or asking other people.

Embracing Source Diversity. Source diversity is the active pursuit of different information that may sometimes clash from one another in order to arrive to an accurate and well-informed decisions. To embrace it, keep in mind the following:

· Why It Matters: Getting different perspectives gives you a fuller picture and helps you avoid blind spots. This will lead you to accurate and well-informed conclusions. Hence, don't rely on a single source.

· Avoids Echo Chambers: Actively seek out information that challenges your existing beliefs. This encourages an open dialogue with one another on certain viewpoints. Hence, it prevents the audience from close-mindedness and poor critical thinking skills.

· Reputable News Outlets: Stick to news sources with a history of accurate reporting and a clear editorial process. This rewards them to report as factual and impartial as possible.

· Different Types of Sources: Use a mix of scholarly articles, news sources, and social media for a well-rounded view. It also enhances critical thinking because you connect one information or thesis to another.