Stretching the Limits of Storytelling: GOMA Media Debuts ‘Nasaan Si Anna?’

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

GOMA Media is a student-led film production house that embodies flexibility and creativity in storytelling. Their name, a playful take on "Go, My Media!", reflects the spirited narratives they aim to produce. Like a rubber band, Goma Media stretches the limits of filmmaking to adapt to the stories and voices waiting to be heard. Goma Media believes that great ideas can transform into unforgettable films that resonate deeply. Dedicated to collaboration and versatility, they are ready to stretch the limits of cinema for stories beyond your imagination.

This year, the Communication and Media Department of the University of Santo Tomas will officially stage Sine Reel 2024: Every Story Is a Homecoming, the longest-running annual filmmaking competition organized by the UST Communication Arts Students’ Association (UST CASA). This platform supports students in pursuing their passions and showcasing their creativity in the realm of film. In line with this, GOMA Media proudly presents its official entry for Sine Reel 2024, titled Nasaan Si Anna?

The film follows the story of a Con Artist who is on the brink of finding out who framed up his brother, who, along the way, received numerous cryptic messages warning him to leave the case alone. The film presents a story inclined toward the theme of Friendship and Crime Fiction.

The film stars Kevin Vincent Pajara, Gary Guarino, Jana Nadine Taguiang, and Anton Pangilinan.

The screening of all Sine Reel entries, along with the nomination and awarding of select films, will take place on this Monday, December 16, 2024, at the Education Auditorium of UST's Albertus Magnus Building. The film will later be available for streaming on the iWant TFC app although no release date has been announced yet.

For more updates about their short film Nasaan Si Anna?, follow GOMA Media on their social media accounts.

Wazzup Pilipinas and Partners Triumphantly Convenes the Umalohokan Fest Year-End Meet-Up and Christmas Party: A Testament to Creativity, Collaboration, and Community

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a symphony of festivity and grandeur, Ross Flores Del Rosario, the visionary founder and CEO of Wazzup Pilipinas, alongside his fellow luminaries, orchestrated the much-anticipated Umalohokan Fest Year-End Meet-Up and Christmas Party on December 14, 2024. This milestone celebration unfolded with splendor at the World Trade Center Manila in Pasay City, synergizing seamlessly with the prestigious World Bazaar Festival—the nation’s longest-running yuletide shopping tradition.

As the year drew to a close, the Umalohokan Fest emerged as an unparalleled gathering of content creators, influencers, media professionals, and entrepreneurial stalwarts, offering a vibrant tapestry of inspiration, collaboration, and camaraderie.

A Celebration Like No Other

This fourth iteration of the Umalohokan Fest co-founded by Ross Del Rosario in collaboration with esteemed partners such as Worldbex Services International, Red Cloud Interactive, Ganda Negosyo, and a curated roster of sponsors—transcended the bounds of a typical meet-up. It was an exuberant homage to the transformative power of digital storytelling and entrepreneurship.

Against the backdrop of the World Trade Center’s sprawling bazaar, the fest resonated with the pulse of creativity. From the main stage to the interactive booths of Wazzup Pilipinas and Ganda Negosyo, the event was a masterclass in seamlessly blending digital influence with real-world community engagement.

An Enchanting Tapestry of Festivities

The day unfurled with dynamic activities designed to ignite inspiration, foster connections, and celebrate the indomitable spirit of the season:Games, Giveaways, and Gratitude: Laughter and excitement cascaded through the venue as attendees partook in raffles and games, with a bounty of generous prizes bestowed upon lucky winners.

Posted by David D'Angelo cosplaying as Master Pogi, Donna Raquiza and Ross Del Rosario himself who also gave a welcome remarks and helped facilitate a game for the attendees.

Cultural and Holiday Showcases

 Traditional Filipino performance specifically the songs of our blogger cum singer wove a nostalgic spell, underscoring the profound beauty of local and homegrown artistry .

Stories that Inspire: Esteemed content creators and partners took center stage to share their background stories, experiences, and poignant reflections on their content creation, business and their transformative journeys throughout the year.

The Bazaar Experience: Amidst the curated offerings of the World Bazaar Festival, attendees discovered a treasure trove of unique finds while networking with creators, entrepreneurs, and bazaar enthusiasts alike.

Interactive Booths: This celebration extended beyond a single day, with the World Bazaar Festival continuing its enchanting run until December 22, 2024, offering more opportunities for engagement and meaningful encounters.

Championing the Spirit of the Umalohokan

True to its name, the Umalohokan Fest draws inspiration from the revered heralds of pre-colonial Philippines, tasked with disseminating vital community news. Ross Flores Del Rosario, the indomitable leader of Wazzup Pilipinas, underscored this historical symbolism, delivering a stirring address that encapsulated the essence of the gathering:

“As modern-day umalohokan, we bear a profound responsibility to wield our digital platforms with integrity. We are not just content creators; we are storytellers, custodians of hope, and heralds of positive change. The Umalohokan Fest stands as our humble tribute to this mission—celebrating our collective creativity while honoring the voices that shape communities and ignite progress.”

Del Rosario’s words reverberated throughout the event, reminding every attendee of their noble role in fostering narratives that uplift, inspire, and transform lives.

The Pillars of Success: Partners and Sponsors

The unparalleled success of the Umalohokan Fest was made possible through the unwavering support of its esteemed partners and sponsors:

Worldbex Services International: Masters of delivering world-class events that unite communities.

Red Cloud Interactive: A creative force driving innovation in the digital and media landscape.

Ganda Negosyo: A beacon of entrepreneurial empowerment and collaboration.

Printing King: Elevating branding and creativity with exceptional printing solutions.

Kyla's Amazing Soybeans: Advocates for health and wellness through superior products highlighted by their "taho".

Alkarock by Gift of Nature: A cornerstone of industry innovation and excellence with their seemingly magical rocks.

Mary Kay: Championing beauty, empowerment, and confidence on a global scale.

Looking Toward 2025: A Future of Impact and Inspiration

As the festivities reached their crescendo, the spirit of the Umalohokan Fest lingered—a palpable reminder of what lies ahead. The event’s resounding success signified more than just a year-end celebration; it was a clarion call to creators and influencers to continue using their voices to drive meaningful impact.

Under the stewardship of Ross Flores Del Rosario, Wazzup Pilipinas remains steadfast in its mission to elevate Filipino narratives, empower storytellers, and champion responsible, credible, and transformative content creation.

About Wazzup Pilipinas

Founded by the trailblazing Ross Flores Del Rosario, Wazzup Pilipinas stands as a venerated pillar of Philippine media and content creation. Dedicated to amplifying Filipino stories, promoting local tourism, and fostering innovation, Wazzup Pilipinas continues to serve as the country’s premier platform for inspiration, integrity, and influence.

As the sun sets on 2024 and dawns upon a promising 2025, the legacy of the Umalohokan Content Creators and Influencers Fest (Umalohokan Fest) Year-End Meet-Up and Christmas Party endures—an epic convergence of creativity, community, and collective purpose.

Here’s to the voices that shape tomorrow, the stories that inspire generations, and the shared vision of a brighter, more impactful future.

Together, we celebrate. Together, we create. Together, we rise.

Low adoption of solar tech not just due to cost

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



Despite the immense potential for solar energy in urban areas of the Philippines, the technology’s upfront cost and a lack of public awareness of its benefits remain major hurdles to its widespread use. Government subsidies and promotional campaigns are seen to help boost its adoption.




With some of the most expensive power rates in Southeast Asia, the Philippines stands to benefit immensely from rooftop solar power installations in urban areas like Metro Manila. However, adoption is hampered by a lack of public awareness and the need for more government support. CREDIT: Rosalina Palanca-Tan


A new study from the Ateneo de Manila University highlights the persistent challenges preventing widespread adoption of rooftop solar power (RTSP) in Metro Manila and nearby provinces. Conducted by Department of Economics Professor Rosalina Palanca-Tan and published in the journal, Challenges in Sustainability, the study surveyed 403 respondents to understand why households remain reluctant to invest in solar technology despite its undisputed economic and environmental benefits.


Major selling points: long-term savings, eco-friendliness


The Philippines has some of the highest electricity rates in Southeast Asia—as high as $0.20 (approximately ₱11.50) per kilowatt-hour on average, compared to as low as $0.08 (~₱4.50) in Vietnam or even $0.06 (~₱3.50) in Malaysia. This makes the potential long-term savings from RTSP its biggest selling point for many households.


Homeowners also recognize that solar energy contributes to environmental protection by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, helping combat the effects of climate change. Overall, the respondents generally viewed RTSP as a sound long-term investment, with added advantages such as increased property value and enhanced roof durability.


However, the upfront cost of installing solar panels remains a major hurdle to public adoption: a home RTSP setup could easily go for well over $1,700 (₱100,000), equivalent to more than half a year’s salary for minimum wage workers. Many households are unsure if this initial expense is justified by long-term financial and environmental returns.


In any case, cost by itself does not significantly influence adoption decisions, the Ateneo survey found. Respondents said that the trustworthiness of providers, clarity on warranties, and the perceived quality of the installations themselves were just as important considerations as cost, if not more so.


Government support to spur public adoption

Although 82% of surveyed households expressed some interest in adopting solar panels, only 20% had firm intentions to do so. This gap apparently stems from a lack of knowledge: while most survey respondents said they understood the broad concept of renewable energy and its role in addressing climate change, few were aware of the specific advantages of RTSPs and how to access reliable installation services. Concerns over the quality of materials, maintenance needs, and provider credibility also added to their reluctance.


Thus, the study urges stronger government intervention and public education campaigns. In particular, the study suggests improving net metering rates, expanding access to financing options, and accrediting trustworthy RTSP providers to build consumer confidence.


Word-of-mouth recommendations also proved instrumental in decision-making, as households with friends or family who had adopted solar power were more likely to consider it for themselves as well. Promoting success stories and community-based testimonials could be a crucial key to shifting perceptions and increasing adoption rates of RSTP in the Philippines.




Although most surveyed households in and around Metro Manila were interested in adopting solar technology, only one in five had firm intentions to do so. Most respondents were unaware of its specific advantages and how to find reliable installers. CREDIT: Rosalina Palanca-Tan