Philippines Hosts 5th World Ecotourism Conference

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Marine ecotourism will be at the centerpiece of this year’s 5th World Ecotourism Conference to be held on February 20 to 22, 2014 in the island-province of Cebu.

With the theme, “Marine and Coastal Ecotourism: Oceans of Uncertainties, Waves of Opportunities,” the 5th World Ecotourism Conference will discuss the impacts of ecotourism activities linked to the seas such as whale and shark watching, snorkeling, scuba diving, and recreational fishing. The conference will also tackle the socio-economic aspects of the industry such as development of destinations, management of marine ecotourism spots, marketing, and the elimination of poverty through sustainability. The event is co-organized by the Department of Tourism and DISCOVERYMICE of Malaysia and endorsed by the United Nations World Tourism Organization.

Representatives from government, industry, civil society, and the academe from all over the world are expected to discuss development and sustainability of industries linked to marine and coastal ecotourism.

Don't Be in Such a Hurry to Climb Your Mountain

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The first and only mountain I've climbed so far was Mount Pulag. Many said I should have started with a lesser challenging mountain like Mount Pinatubo but I never chose which one should be my first - there was an opportunity so I grabbed it.

My way to the top was fast because I wanted to catch up with the rest of the group. I never really made much effort to stop for awhile and look at the scenery. There was a schedule to maintain and regardless of the fact that I was so damn tired, sweaty, and thirsty... I had to move on so that the entire group can make it on time. Having to climb with a group also adds some form of motivation on me because I dare not become the weakest link.

The path was toxic, but I endured! Especially during part two of the climb - an early morning trek towards the top trying to make it before sunrise. Suffering from the extreme cold, it was the very first time I felt my body shaking and my teeth quivering relentlessly. The pitch black darkness added more worries as we were only guided by flashlights while following a narrow path.

To Be or Not To Be Obese: That is the Question for Social Responsibility

Wazzup Pilipinas!

What's your take on this?

If given only three choices for drinks: iced tea, soft-drink, or wine - which one would you choose?

Regardless of the reason - health, taste, or appearance - which one deserves a recommendation from you?

To choose the lesser evil, I dare not wait for your answer because it is very obvious. But the focus should be on the most toxic among the three. The product you should avoid entirely! Lessening the intake is not even an option, you should take it out entirely from your diet.

"Kahit ano pang kanta ang i-translate ng isang cola company sa international scene na maging viral ay alam naman natin ang totoo na walang mabuing naidudulot ang soft-drinks sa atin."

No amount of national or international advocacy, social responsibility and awareness campaigns, high-profile endorsers, large donations and relief efforts, employment opportunities, and the likes - can hide the truth that these drinks are harmful to healthy living. The number one source of obesity!