YouTube Stars Dance to Raise One Million Dollars

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Judy and Benji Travis, YouTube celebrities who star on ItsJudysLife will host Dancember, their annual interactive fundraising event. It will be held live in Seattle and live-streamed globally on YouTube from December 15 to 16, 2017 from 3 PM PST to 3 PM PST. With a one million dollar fundraising goal, they will partner with the charity organization, Convoy of Hope to help feed impoverished children and bring awareness to global hunger.

The Travis’ are expected to be joined during the event by other YouTube stars, including: Bretman Rock (Bretman Rock), Desi Perkins (Desi Perkins), Lindy Tsang (BubzBeauty), Mikey Bustos (Mikey Bustos) and Mike Tompkins (pbpproductions).

“Last year, Dancember raised more than $500,000 to feed hungry children,” says Travis.” This year our goal is to raise one million dollars for Convoy of Hope’s feedONE Initiative, which feeds over 160,000 children in eleven countries.”

Dancember organizers have already raised over $125,000 in donations through the #Dancember Challenge and their Dancember Tour, which started in the Philippines and will continue in four west coast cities during December.

Travis notes that Dancember is a unique fundraiser that features audience participation, incentives for giving, and special guests. With the help of their team of social media influencers from around the world, cumulatively reaching over 60 million fans, they will spread the #Dancember Challenge message worldwide before and during the event.

“We’re honored to partner with Benji and Judy for Dancember,” says Kirk Noonan, vice president of Creative Communications for Convoy of Hope. “Communicating this need with their extensive YouTube and social media audiences will allow us to continue to improve the lives of children and families throughout the world.”

The Travis family had their Meet and Greet events on September 24 at SM Seaside Cebu and on October 1 at Samsung Hall, SM Aura Premier and were able to raise $60,000 through these events. They also visited Convoy of Hope Philippines during their stay in the country. The Philippines forms the majority of the followers for Judy and Benji Travis, making more than a third of their fan base, according to Deep Social, a social media analytics platform.

Wonders of Christmas at City of Dreams Manila

Wazzup Pilipinas!

City of Dreams Manila’s European-inspired Christmas décor makes for a central backdrop for a memorable staycation in any of its three luxury hotels, dining in any of the more than 20 restaurants, Christmas-themed activities at an interactive play space, year-ender parties and New Year’s Eve countdown events, celebrations in a function room or a KTV room, and luxury shopping for the holidays.

European-Themed Decor

The luxury integrated resort’s Christmas décor, conceptualized by Danish designer Creation Group and executed by Tema Design Philippines, features two towering nutcrackers at the main entrance, an enchanting 32-foot Christmas tree next to a life-sized Santa’s log-cabin and sleigh at the central aisle where Santa will be stationed for photo ops during weekends of December, handing out Snickers bars. Outdoors, beside the Nobu Hotel pool deck, astunning 22-foot teddy bear covered in 16,000 LED lights illuminates the garden at night, while at The Shops boulevard, a cluster of golden trees with a troupe of fairies in flight evoke enchantment and fantasy. The lobbies of Nobu, Crown and Hyatt also sport distinct holiday showpieces that invite photo ops.

Shrek the Halls at DreamPlay

For kids and the kids at heart, a Christmas-themed family celebration with DreamWorks characters is in store in DreamPlay with the “Shrek the Halls” holiday adventure activity at P1,588 net per person, from December 2 to January 2. The Christmas experience with Shrek includes an all-day pass, a Gingy apron, a refreshing Baked Christmas Apple & Gingerbread smoothie, a meet-and-greet with Shrek and Princess Fiona, and a viewing of the Shrek the Halls Holiday Special Short film at the Dream Theatre.

Staycation Packages at Nobu Hotel

As a respite from the holiday rush, there’s the “Celebrations” staycation package at Nobu Hotel Manila in a well-appointed deluxe room, replete with breakfast and a spa treatment for two, and dining credit to experience a selection of City of Dreams Manila’s restaurants. The package starts at P14,700 and P21,700 net for one and two-night accommodations, respectively. For families, the “Stay and Play” package is the ideal choice with an overnight accommodation in a deluxe room with breakfast for two adults and two children below 13 years old and DreamPlay passes for four, is offered at P10,300 net. Room packages are available until December 30, 2017. Complimentary yoga and Zumba classes are also available on weekends.

Gift Ideas at Café Society

An imposing dome housing Café Society’s gift ideasfor loved ones and friends is a one-stop-shop until January 1 for decadent delights such as holiday cakes, breads, stolen, English fruit cake, traditional minced pie, cookies and chocolates – including adorable chocolate Santa Claus confections in small or large sizes, and gingerbread cookie houses.

Omakase Dinner and Holiday Brunch at Nobu Manila

Foodies can indulge in Nobu Manila’s seven-course Omakase dinner menu from December 1 to 28. The menu includes Aburi Tachiuo Salad with Spicy Lemon Dressing; Roasted King Prawn with Scampi Gratin, Wasabi Aioli and Bacon Korokke; and Nobu-Style Puto Bumbong. The promotion is at P5,400++ per person.

An exclusive seven-course Omakase menu will be on offer for New Year’s Eve on December 31. Brunch fare will be available for Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve celebration on December 24 and 31, respectively from 11:30 am to 3 pm.

Christmas Set Menus at Crystal Dragon

Revelers looking for premium Cantonese and contemporary Chinese can satisfy their cravings at Crystal Dragon with a choice between two delectable five-course Christmas set menus priced at P1,988++ and P2,388++ offered for the whole month of December.

Set Menu A features dishes such as Pan Fried Fragrant Glutinous Rice served with Aromatic Duck Leg in Abalone Sauce, Steamed Cod Fish with Baby Bok Choy and Crispy Turnips, and Chilled Sweetened Mango Sphere with Pan Fried Soft Skin Ube.

Set Menu B showcases Hands roll Peking Duck with Seafood Platter; Braised E Fu Noodle with Oven Baked Garlic and Bacon Lobster; and Walnut Chocolate Whiskey’s Soft Skin Sweet Dumpling served with Crispy Custard Banana Roll and Warm Vanilla Sauce.


Festive Platter at Red Ginger

Southeast Asian cuisine reigns supreme at Red Ginger, and a limited-time holiday a la carte selection will be available from December 16 to 31.


Sunday Barbecue Grill at Wave

A sumptuous barbecue buffet spread featuring grilled dishes and a variety of Eastern and Western dishes are served by the poolside during the weekly Sunday barbecue dinner at Wave restaurant. Available on all Sundays of November and December, not-to-be-missed staples are the lemongrass-stuffed lechon carving station, the grill with bratwurst, pork barbecue skewers, chicken inasal, and lemon garlic prawns, the risotto cheese wheel, cold cuts station, breads station, salads station, and delectable desserts.


December and New Year’s Eve Parties

Chaos will fly in international DJ Ookay to perform on December 8, while New Year’s Eve countdown parties at Chaos and CenterPlay will highlight top local performing artists including True Faith on December 31.

For inquiries and reservations, guests can call 800 8080, e-mail guestservices@cod-manila.com, or visitwww.cityofdreamsmanila.com.

KISLAP: A School in the South’s Coachella-ish Way to Start the Holidays.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Augustinian Student Government of Colegio San Agustin – Biñan, in light of the holidays, has organized an event which was called “KISLAP: Gabi ng Kantahan, Kainan, Kasiyahan.” The event aims to celebrate and give thanks for the positivity, the blessings, and the love received throughout the year.

With performances by Ourselves the Elves, St. Wolf, and two of the local bands as highlights. Multiple food stalls sold an array of choices for the event-goers. A raffle with exciting prizes was also held.

The event took place in the open area in front of the Saint Monica Hall. The Vice President Internal of the ASG adviced to “bring whatever you need to get comfortable and enjoy the event to its fullest; picnic blankets and the likes will be allowed.”

Tis the Season to be Grateful as MY POPE PHILIPPINES Gives Us, The Christmas Bundle Treat!

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Are you feeling the yuletide rush? Still looking for that unique gift idea? My Pope
Philippines’ December issue offers you a treat that’s enough to make you feel warm
and fuzzy inside, the good way. As it’s the holiday season, they give you: My Pope
Kids and the limited edition, My Pope Christmas post cards all for FREE.

Collect all 2 designs perfect as Christmas giveaways for your family, friends and love ones.

Have a glimpse of the Vatican’s holiday decorations over the past few years,  as well as yummy Christmas recipes from Lolo Kiko’s days as a cardinal.

This issue, they also bring you Pope’s advice for a more meaningful holiday and 12 other gifts that you can offer your loved ones this Christmas. Take a look at My Pope’s tips for fun and stress-free gatherings from all the reunions you will probably have this holidays.

And as the year ends, they give you stories of hope and inspiration like the generous St. Nick who is the basis for today’s Santa Claus. They have made it our mission to add even more light and love to your season by not forgetting the stories of hope that their
own readers have shared.

For more exciting treat, My Pope Kids debut issue are specially made for children ages 8-12 years old. It’s a supplement that provides tips for parents on how to deal with children which were inspired by Pope Francis and some professional psychologists vice versa.

At the same time, it consists of fun games, puzzles, illustrations, funny stories and letter making to Pope Francis that kids will surely love.

Lastly, it includes articles that will teach children to be a better person and develop
their goodness as they grow old.

My Pope Philippines magazine, special Christmas Bundle Treat will be available last week of November 27 on all National book stores, 7 Eleven and partner
newsstands nationwide for only P85 per copy.

For more information, you may text/
call: (+63) 917 711-1818 or email them at subscription@mypope.com.ph. You may also check out their official social media pages- MY POPE PHILIPPINES. Like them on Facebook & follow them on Instagram and remember to always use the hashtag-
#mypopeph.

From My Pope Philippines, they all wish you a joyful and Merry Christmas! Enjoy
reading and always remember to “give the gift of My Pope”.

Association of Volunteer Fire Chiefs and Firefighters of the Philippines Holds Anniversary and Induction Ceremonies

Wazzup Pilipinas!

With an initial membership of seven fire brigades back in 1987, the Filipino-Chinese civic organization called the Association of Volunteer Fire Chiefs and Firefighters of the Philippines, was engage in more than just firefighting operations. In fact, they respond to around 800 fires and emergencies a year. They are also involved in water distribution during times of shortages, and assisted during aftermaths of earthquakes such as that in Baguio and Cabanatuan, and metropolis cleaning operations such as the NAIA runway after the eruption of volcanoes such as Mt. Pinatubo, and conduct of medical and dental missions in various depressed areas in the metro. They have also participated in rescue operations including the transport of victims of the sea accident of MV San Nicolas to medical facilities.

In 1996, they were the first organization to be granted an emergency hotline (16016) thru the efforts of the incumbent mayor. They erected their own headquarters on a 1,000 sqm lot in Manila Harbour Center in Tondo. They also participated in the parade commemorating Philippine Independence at Luneta.

They are now celebrating their 31st year of continued service to the community. Their membership has grown to 28 volunteer fire brigades with a complement of more than 100 firetrucks, water tankers, and rescue units manned by 1,500 firefighters  and paramedics. Their headquarters are also manned by radio and telephone operato that monitor calls for assistance on a 24/7 basis.

To celebrate the occasion, the organization conducted an anniversary and induction to to proudly recognize and reward their outstanding members, and put into oath their new officers. The well-deserving heads and members of every brigade were given recognition of their valuable contribution of service risking their lives in the process.

The event was held on December 10, 2017 at Golden Bay Seafood Restaurant located along Macapagal Avenue near Mall of Asia complex in Pasay city, and were attended by all the officers and members ofvthe organization. Thus led their guest of honor, Dr. Rosalind Wee,t o joke by asking who was left to answer calls if a fire broke loose during their event. But we all know that they are just volunteers and the job is truly for the government firefighters.  Though many have found the organization to be quicker to respond than the previously mentioned, I guess they deserve a break once in a while.  It was a good thingbthat no fire was reported that Sunday, otherwise we may see some of these dedicated heroes suddenly leaving the venue for they may not be able to resist responding to the emergency.

Entertaining the attendees were Glaiza de Castro and Noel Cabangon who both gave three song numbers that day. 

The highlight of the day was the 1 Million peso donation of their guest of honor to the organization. That amount would surely go a long way in helping improve the firefighters skills and services. It is hoped that with the guidance of incoming President,  Ramon Chuaying, the organization will grow bigger and more capable in fighting fires. But we also hope that they also focus on finding ways to prevent fires so that property and lives will be saved from destruction. Thank you to outgoing President Domingo Chan Chun Bok for his service,  and may he continue to be a valuable consultant and supporter to the cause.

Being a volunteer, may it be as a firefighter, a paramedic or any other public service or advocacy is truly an honorable act. It is very rare that we take action without expecting something in return. Thus we should definitely give due attention to our valiant heroes for their selfless efforts in serving the community. As they say, we should not rely solely on our government in providing the basic services. We should always take the initiaein finding ways to help out each other especially during times of need. And though prevention is more likely the better path to take to reduce the harm, we should also be prepared and ready against unforeseen disasters like fire, wrath of nature, or accidents.

Jacob Jensen Design Soon to Collaborate in the Philippines

Wazzup Pilipinas!

We recently witnessed the unfolding of another opportunity for Design and Technology innovation, exchanges, collaboration and partnerships on Dec. 06 , 3:00 - 4:00pm at QBO Office, DTI International Building, Gil Puyat, Makati City.

What primarily prevents our artists in coming out in the open to promote their works? Many are just too burdened with the fear of havong to face tax deductions.

In the Philippines, setting up a business entity, even for single proprietorship entails getting too many permits with corresponding fees. Fees that could be too much for newly established businesses that already spent a fortune in capital setting up their business address and equipment.

Thus, announcing your services could very well be more profitable if you remain online seemingly just a home-based entity. Expansion could very well be just an option to keep for yourself since you would prefer paying less tax obligations.

If the Philippines wants us to actively engage with Jacob Jensen Design company then they should make it more attractive for businessmen to setup business in the country. Onexwayvis to reduce orvtotally eliminate taxes during the first months or years until the company has recovered their initial funds used in founding their business. We tend to be more open to partnerships or collaborations when we have less financial obligations to worry about. The less risk, the more open-minded we are to invest our hard-earned money. Needless to say, if the government could not subsidize, then they should find other ways to persuade us to invest.

We are honored that the design firm has chosen to venture into the Philippines and has recognized our potential to be worthy partners. Our growrh woukd surely be their growth as well. Many talented individuals would put a second thought in working out of the country if our talenrs could be well utilized and compensated within the country so we won't need to leave our families in search of greener pastures.

Timothy sounds optimistic enough that it would be a crime to ignore his call for collaboration. The offer is too good to resist. But since it would be the first time of this kind, mant would obviously hesitate to take the iniative as a pioneer of such venture. But surely, those who have the guts to become pioneers would reap greater benefits if it becomes successful.

With full support of the Embassy of Denmark, and the Department of Trade and Industry, we would undoubtedly make it big in the design industry since there are many creative Filipinos that could once again put the Philippines in the map as a Design hub.

BGC Holds Fun Activities for the Kids of Taguig

Wazzup Pilipinas!

BGC gives back. Fort Bonifacio Development Foundation, Inc. — the social responsibility arm of Bonifacio Global City recently led BGCitizens and volunteers in painting a colorful mural and brightening up a classroom in BGC’s adopted school, Gat Andres Bonifacio High School. They also spent time with the kids of Taguig (tagged as the ‘Bonibulilits’) for rounds of storytelling sessions, art workshops, quiz shows, games, presentations, and a tour at The Mind Museum. In partnership with Daiichi Properties, such initiatives aim to get the public involved in passionate pursuits that reach out to the Taguig community for inclusive growth and development.

BGC Volunteers created a mural entitled ‘PASSION’ that showcased individuals’ various passions at the city’s adopted school, Gat Andres Bonifacio High School (Source: Sarion Films and LittleMsPrinter)

BGC volunteers spent time with the ‘Bonibulilits’ (kids from Taguig City) at the Mind Museum for rounds of storytelling sessions, art workshops, and many more.(Source: Fringe Studios)

Mr. Jun San Juan, Community Relations Officer of the Fort Bonifacio Development Foundation, Inc. with some of the ‘Bonibulilits’.

Yamaha Dominates Motorace Championship at Kart zone, Cebu

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Yamaha’s excellence in the racing circuit is know the world over that is why it comes to no surprise who rules the Philippine racetracks. What really makes this interesting is the riders will be assigned to their motorcycle via draw lots; putting not just personal skill to the test but also the greatness of the machine. The top motorcycle manufacturers prepared for a competition that puts the spotlight on their innovations.

The 150cc category featured the Yamaha Sniper 150 leading the way against a field of Honda RS150 riders. It was a tough and challenging battle with top tier talent manning the rival manufacturer but in the end, Rj Commendador stamped the class of the Sniper 150 during the match. The 130-category presented a tough task of outperforming an entire pack of adversaries. Using the Vega Force I, Garry Caneda one upped the competition in the underbone race. This was the same case for him in the 130 AT open in a lineup that saw him and the Mio Sporty outnumbered but still managed to capture the top spot. The most exciting matchup for the day was during the all-female category where Chloe Mallari and C-Let Cuizon bagged the 1st and 2nd place respectively on Yamaha’s Mio i 125, taking down their rival manufacturer.

Although facing tough competition and outnumbered in every turn, Yamaha proved that they can’t easily be outclassed on the track. The combination of talented riders and World Class motorcycles only yield one result, dominance.

Meet the Nine Grand Finalists of Asia’s Got Talent Season 2 Vote for your Favorite Act Now!

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Asia’s Got Talent Season 2 Grand Final was held Thursday at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, which turned out to be the most thrilling night of the year. Fans have voted and judges have made their picks; so here are the nine grand finalists of this high-octane season:

· Indonesian singer and harpist Angela July (#AGTVote2) impressed the judges so much that she received the first judges’ pick of the season. With her angelic harp and powerful vocals, Angela is this season’s singing sensation.

“Tonight, you were the very best version of yourself.”
- David Foster.

· Philippines’ beatboxer Neil Rey Garcia Llanes (#AGTVote6) returned this season determined to make it to the Grand Final. His awe-inspiring vocal percussion ability has made him a social phenomenon on Facebook and YouTube.

“I was very much impressed by you from the first season, but then you came back and stepped it up…I’m really hoping that you go very, very far.” - Anggun

· It takes a lot of work to sync his dancing with his visual art, but the hosts’ Golden Buzzer pick, Canion Shijirbat (#AGTVote8) from Mongolia delivered a truly unique performance in both of his auditions. Will he be able to take his performance to the next level in the Grand Final?

“I love unique…I love your brain and what you’ve created. Bravo!” - David Foster.  

· Jay Park’s Golden Buzzer, Kyrgyzstan’s ADEM Dance Crew’s (#AGTVote9) delivered yet again with a strong ‘Night in the Museum’ inspired performance that received a standing ovation from the audience. But facing strong competitors like DM-X, can ADEM emerge victorious?

“I got to give you props for how much you’ve sacrificed and go through for your craft, I got to give you props.”
- Jay Park  

· If there’s one act that truly represented this season of Asia’s Got Talent unpredictability, it would have to be Indonesian viral sensation The Sacred Riana (#AGTVote11). Her Asia’s Got Talent performance clips have been viewed over 70 million times on YouTube and Facebook globally, making her a hot favourite.

“I think I peed in my pants a little. Very unique. It was scary but was still entertaining at the same time. Great overall.” -Jay Park

· Hailing from The Philippines, DM-X Comvalenoz (#AGTVote16) knows how to put on a show! In the midst of rocking it out, they pulled a 180 to show us the feminine side of their group, performing a dance that was a perfect blend of sexy, glamour and class.

“As far as the dance performance go, I think you guys have it all. You have the full package, you have everything. So good job!” – Jay Park.


· Taiwanese child prodigy Feng E (#AGTVote19) received David Foster’s Golden Buzzer AND judges’ pick, making him a double threat. His talent is unparalleled in this competition but he faces a tough opponent in another judges’ pick, Angela July. It will be an epic battle for sure!

“If I could push the Golden Buzzer again, I would do it. There might not even be another person that could play the ukulele like you.” - David Foster

· Representing Malaysia, illusionist Sobhi Shaker (#AGTVote23) has been declared the best magician that David Foster has ever seen. This Syrian refugee’s inspiring story and reason to win Asia’s Got Talent makes him one of the most compelling act to watch this season.

“That performance was flawless, that was the best performance of the night. I have never experienced goosebumps during a magic performance. Thank you.” - Anggun

· Flyers from the south, Philippines’ Urban Crew (#AGTVote24) gave 110% of their hearts and souls with an adrenaline pumping ninja-style dance, complete with inhuman jumps, flips and spins, straight out of an anime! The passionate crew is dancing for a cause, to help kids stay off the streets. 

“The stunts and moves are definitely the most difficult I have ever seen. You guys are world-class in my eyes.” - Jay Park

In the Grand Final episode, all nine grand finalists gave the performance of their lifetime without the help of the Golden Buzzer or judges’ pick. All nine acts will be up for public voting and only one act can win Asia’s Got Talent and the grand prize of US$100,000. Voting opens until 13 December, 11:59pm, and fans can vote via Facebook Hashtag, Facebook Messenger and Google Search. For more information on voting, visit www.AXN-Asia.com/AGTVote.

Asia’s Got Talent Season 2 will culminate next Thursday, 14 December at 8:30pm on AXN with the Results Show. To follow the journey of this season’s acts, check out #AXNAsia and #AsiasGotTalent.

Asia’s Got Talent is the 67th adaptation of the Guinness-World-Record-breaking hit “Got Talent” format, which was created by Simon Cowell’s Syco Entertainment and is co-produced by FremantleMedia. The “Got Talent” format is officially the most successful reality TV format in history and currently airs in 186 countries.

Asia’s Got Talent is supported by presenting sponsor Traveloka, the leading travel booking app for all flight and hotel needs; sponsoring partner Great Eastern Life, the market leader in the conventional life insurance business and the largest life insurer in Malaysia by asset size; and GoDaddy, the world's largest cloud platform dedicated to small, independent ventures.

In the Philippines, Asia’s Got Talent is brought to you by Cherifer, Tangkad Sagad, KFC Delivery and Vivo Smart Phone.

Marina Bay Sands, Asia’s leading business, leisure and entertainment destination, is the official venue partner of Asia’s Got Talent.

@AsiasGotTalent / #AXNAsia / #AsiasGotTalent / #AsiasGotTalentAuditions

www.AXN-Asia.com/AsiasGotTalent

AXN is available on Cablelink Channel 38, Cignal Channel 121, Destiny Cable Channel 49, Dream Satellite TV Channel 20, G Sat Channel 51, and SKYCable Channel 49. AXN HD is available on SKYCable Channel 247.