Wanderlust Chronicles of Ross Del Rosario: The Man Behind Wazzup Pilipinas

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Ross Flores Del Rosario, the dynamic force behind Wazzup Pilipinas, has always been on the move—whether in pursuit of captivating stories, promoting local tourism, or simply enjoying the beauty of the world with his family. His journey as a media personality and blogger has taken him to some of the most enchanting destinations, both within the Philippines and beyond.

From Staycations to International Adventures

Ross’s family staycation at The Farm at San Benito in Lipa, Batangas, exemplifies his passion for rejuvenating escapes. Nestled in nature, this luxury resort provided a serene getaway, blending wellness with relaxation—an experience that resonated with his approach to a balanced lifestyle amidst a busy media career.

His travels have not only been about unwinding but also about exploring the diverse landscapes of the Philippines. Batanes, with its dramatic rolling hills and breathtaking cliffs, left an indelible mark on Ross, while Iloilo and Bacolod charmed him with their rich heritage and culinary delights. His visit to Dumaguete and Pangasinan further showcased his love for experiencing different regional cultures and their unique attractions.

In Bulacan, Clark, and Lubao, Pampanga, Ross has been part of multiple tourism initiatives, including his participation in various influencer events aimed at promoting local destinations. His continued efforts to highlight these regions demonstrate his deep commitment to Philippine tourism.

Exploring Asia’s Gems

Ross’s travels have not been confined to the Philippines. His adventures have led him across Asia, beginning with the bustling streets of Hong Kong and the architectural wonders of Macau, where tradition meets modernity. A trip to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia showcased a blend of cultures, much like the eclectic vibrancy of Bangkok, Thailand, which has become one of his favorite international cities for its rich history, stunning temples, and lively marketplaces.

Each of these destinations has fueled Ross’s inspiration, adding new layers to his storytelling, as he captures the essence of each place for his followers.

Prestigious Milestones

2024 marks a particularly momentous year for Ross, not only for his travels but also for the accolades he is set to receive. One highlight is his upcoming trip to Hanoi, Vietnam, on December 6, 2024, where he will accept the Most Outstanding Community Blog for 2024 award at the Vietnam International Achievers Awards. This recognition solidifies Wazzup Pilipinas’ position as a leading voice in the blogging community, spotlighting Ross’s relentless passion and integrity in delivering stories that matter.

Recent and Upcoming Adventures

In addition to his international escapades, Ross recently embarked on several exciting trips, such as his family vacation to Cebu from August 16 to 19, 2024. Staying at The Noble Cebu Hotel, Ross explored the Queen City of the South and plans to return from November 13 to 15, 2024, as a media partner for Geeks on a Beach. He was also part of the Biyaheng South Experiential Tour of Cavite in September 2024, a journey filled with discovery and learning about local culture.

Moreover, his upcoming SOCCSKSARGEN photography tour from October 25-28, 2024, promises yet another visually captivating adventure as he captures the beauty of Southern Mindanao.

A Journey Fueled by Passion

Ross’s travels are not just about collecting passport stamps but about immersing himself in the culture, people, and stories of each place. Whether attending prestigious events, exploring local attractions, or embarking on spontaneous family getaways, Ross embodies the spirit of a true traveler. His journey continues to inspire those who follow Wazzup Pilipinas, proving that the world is best experienced with curiosity and a genuine love for sharing stories that connect us all.

From the mountains of Batanes to the vibrant streets of Hanoi, Ross Del Rosario’s adventures are far from over. Each destination brings new insights, and through Wazzup Pilipinas, he continues to make the world a little more accessible to his ever-growing audience.

What's next for Wazzup Pilipinas?

De Claro assumes leadership of the Social Security System

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The Social Security System (SSS) has announced the appointment of Commissioner Robert Joseph M. De Claro as its new Officer-in-Charge, effective October 11, following the resignation of Rolando Ledesma Macasaet earlier this month. The decision was made by the Social Security Commission (SSC), the policymaking body of the SSS.

De Claro, who has served on the SSC since January 11, 2023, representing the Employers' Group, brings a strong background to the role. As a Commissioner, he chaired the IT and Collection and Contribution Committee and participated in key committees covering audit, risk, investment, and governance.

In addition to his new role, De Claro has been a member of the board of UnionBank (UBP) and UnionBank Investment and Trust Corp. (UBIMTC) and a member of its Executive Committee (ExCom), Governance and Risk Committees since 2023. His experience in the financial and corporate sectors adds a valuable perspective to his leadership of the pension fund.

De Claro’s professional background spans over 32 years, including executive roles in both the public and private sectors.

De Claro began his career at Nestlé Philippines in 1993, eventually holding international positions as an Expatriate (OFW) in Australia and at Nestlé’s headquarters in Switzerland.


With his broad leadership experience across multiple industries, De Claro is well-equipped to lead the SSS in advancing its mandate of providing comprehensive social security protection to Filipinos.

Relearning the Role of Senators: A Call for Adaptation to the Complexities of Modern Governance

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Panahon na that we should unlearn (forget about what majority were made to believe) and relearn (evolve and adapt to what is now more apt and applicable to our current society that is already so convoluted)



In a society as dynamic and multifaceted as ours, it is crucial to challenge what we have long accepted as the norm. For too long, the public's perception of government functions, especially the role of senators, has been influenced by outdated ideas and oversimplified notions. It’s time for a recalibration—an unlearning of what we have been made to believe, and a relearning of how senators can truly serve a nation that’s increasingly complex, diverse, and fraught with challenges.

Let’s dive into the core responsibilities of senators and why these need to be understood differently in light of modern issues.

1. Lawmaking (Gumawa ng Batas)

At its core, the most visible function of senators is lawmaking, yet we often assume it’s just about drafting and approving laws. In reality, the complexity of lawmaking today goes far beyond that. Given the diversity of voices in our country, a one-size-fits-all lawmaking process no longer works. It's time we unlearn the idea that laws are just for governing. We must relearn that laws should be living documents, adaptable and flexible enough to address not just the current needs, but also the future realities of our nation.

In today’s convoluted world, laws should be created with foresight, ensuring they evolve alongside the social, technological, and economic changes that inevitably come. Our senators must be seen not merely as policymakers, but as visionaries who legislate for a future that is as unpredictable as it is promising.

2. Oversight (Tagapangasiwa)

Oversight is one of the most underrated yet critical functions of senators. The traditional understanding is that they investigate and review government actions to ensure everything operates within the bounds of the law. However, in today’s world, oversight needs to be more proactive. We must unlearn the passive assumption that oversight only occurs when something has gone wrong. Senators should instead take a preventive approach, constantly reviewing government actions, policies, and projects in real-time to avoid inefficiencies, waste, and corruption before they happen.

Relearn that oversight, especially in the digital age, should involve advanced data analysis, real-time monitoring systems, and the active involvement of civil society and private organizations. The government is no longer the sole arbiter of truth; transparency and accountability now involve diverse stakeholders who need to be brought into the process.

3. Budget (Badyet)

The budget is often viewed as numbers on a page—money allocated for different sectors, projects, and regions. But we need to unlearn this mechanical understanding of budgetary processes. Budgets are moral documents; they reflect our nation’s priorities, values, and future. Senators, therefore, play an even more significant role by ensuring that the national budget reflects the realities of climate change, economic inequality, technological advancement, and human development.

Relearn that budget allocation isn’t just about fairness; it's about sustainability and strategic thinking. As society evolves, senators need to champion a budget that is not only responsive to the pressing needs of the present but anticipatory of future global crises—from pandemics to climate change.

4. Appointments (Tagahirang)

The approval of presidential appointments might seem procedural, but it holds far-reaching implications. We need to unlearn the idea that this process is merely a rubber stamp exercise. Senators must carefully scrutinize appointees for their capacity to handle modern-day governance issues like digital transformation, economic recovery, and societal polarization.

Relearn that in a complex world, public servants should not only be competent but also adaptable, future-oriented, and deeply attuned to the challenges of an interconnected global society. Appointments should prioritize candidates who understand these intricacies, ensuring the country has leaders equipped to lead in uncertain times.

5. Impeachment Judges (Tagahukom)

Impeachment proceedings, while rare, are one of the highest forms of checks and balances. Unlearn the notion that impeachment is merely a political act. It is, in fact, a crucial test of our democratic institutions. Senators must approach impeachment with an understanding of its long-term consequences for public trust and the rule of law.

Relearn that impeachment trials are not just about punishing wrongdoing; they are about preserving the integrity of our institutions. In an era of rampant misinformation, transparency and fairness during these trials are essential to maintaining the public’s faith in our system of governance.

6. Treaty Concurrence (Kasunduan)

As globalization accelerates, treaties are more complex and interconnected than ever before. We need to unlearn the simplistic idea that treaties are mere agreements between nations. Senators now face treaties dealing with international trade, environmental protection, and cybercrime, all of which require a deep understanding of global dynamics.

Relearn that treaties are about safeguarding national interests while also playing a responsible role on the global stage. Senators must be globally aware, ensuring that our nation’s participation in treaties reflects both our domestic priorities and our responsibilities as part of the international community.

7. In Case of War (Magdeklara ng State of War)

The declaration of war is often seen as an extreme measure, but with global conflicts now involving economic warfare, cyberattacks, and environmental crises, the concept of "war" has evolved. Unlearn the outdated perception that war is just physical combat. In today’s world, wars are fought over resources, technology, and information.

Relearn that senators’ power to declare a state of war must be exercised with a broader understanding of modern warfare. They must consider not just military engagements but also economic sanctions, cyber defenses, and diplomatic negotiations, which can be equally devastating to national security.

8. Martial Law (Batas Militar)

Martial law evokes strong emotions and memories in the Philippines, and rightfully so. Unlearn the notion that martial law is purely about military control. Relearn that in a world where unrest can take on many forms—such as economic instability, public health crises, or technological breakdowns—martial law could be used or misused in various ways.

Senators must act as vigilant defenders of civil liberties, ensuring that the imposition of martial law remains an option of absolute last resort. They must balance national security with the preservation of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

9. Amnesty (Kapatawaran)

Amnesty can be a powerful tool for reconciliation, but we must unlearn the idea that it’s just about forgiveness. In the modern world, amnesty can serve as a tool for social healing and justice, especially in cases of systemic corruption, human rights abuses, and conflict.

Relearn that amnesty must be used to build lasting peace, ensuring that it aligns with a broader vision of justice, accountability, and national unity. It’s a tool not just for closing chapters but for opening new ones that promote healing and progress.

As we evolve as a society, it is critical that we relearn these essential functions of senators through the lens of modern governance. By challenging our old beliefs and embracing a more nuanced understanding of their roles, we empower ourselves to demand better leadership—one that can navigate the complex realities of today’s world and guide us toward a better future.