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Wednesday, May 7, 2014

Logitech Color Collection for 2014: ExpressYourself in Style with Eye-Catching Colored Mice


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Gone are the black, silver or white colors of tech gadgets and accessories. People are now more expressive that they want to match their gadgets with their unique personalities. Each color is reflective of some of our traits and would sometimes be quite accurate in defining us as a person.

When I was invited to attend an event which required us to wear something colored pink, purple, green and blue, I knew it would be the same colors of the new products that was being launched last May 6, 2014. Held at the Crowne Plaza located at Ortigas Center in Pasig city, was the launch of Logitech's New Color Collection for 2014.

I wore green to the event, not because its my favorite color, but because I wanted to try out something new, and a gadget or tech accessory that's colored green will be something different for me. Later I found out the color has a few meanings behind it which also somehow reflects my personality.


Philippine Volcanoes Looking Forward to 2nd Half of the Asian 5 Nations Series


Wazzup Pilipinas!

There are 37 volcanoes in the Philippines, of which 18 are still active volcanoes. Volcanoes can cause violent and destructive outbursts or eruptions causing disastrous effects such as airfall deposition, pyroclastic flows, rain triggered debris flows and lava flows.

This is probably why the Philippine Rugby team was nicknamed "Volcanoes" to mean power and destruction to everyone that blocks their path towards deserving victory. True enough, they represent the Philippines in international rugby competitions thus they need to excel and show to the world that nobody messes with the Philippines.

But after reading some information about them, I found out that the team name Philippine Volcanoes was adopted from the 1st Filipino Infantry Regiment composed of Filipino Americans who saw battle during World War 2. The first Philippine National Rugby Team that participated in their first international tournament was a mix of Expat and Filipino players. Thus, the team name.


Though the Philippine Volcanoes have their own share of losses, their performances in previous matches which already earned them worthy recognitions makes us hopeful for more victories soon. Rugby is fast emerging to be another popular sport in the Philippines that it would be nice to emulate a winning team and let it transcend to the next generations.


Team USANA Pilipinas: Young Filipino Athletes Endorses USANA Products


Wazzup Pilipinas!

What a wacky pose, especially for First Pinay World Pool Champ Bing Amit, who's posing like "I don't really know what". But what would you expect from such a young group of athletes with so much energy to keep them up and alive especially now that they are among the new brand endorsers of USANA products.

Personal care and high-quality supplements manufacturer USANA was proud to introduce to the members of the media 10 familiar faces in the world of Philippine sports that already made a name for themselves after earning several recognitions in their respective field of expertise.

Although only 7 personally made it to the press conference held at the USANA main office located at the Enterprise Tower in Makati, the other 3 were also mentioned during the presentation. The most recognizable for me was Taekwondo Hunk Japoy Lizardo because of his other brand endorsements giving him plenty of TV and print ad exposures.

The other athletes are Tin Patrimonio - the Venus of Women's Tennis, Janice Lagman - the Aphrodite of Taekwondo Poomsae, Aly Valdez - Women's Volleyball Phenom, Gaby dela Merced - The Racing Goddess, Niel Flores - Men's Volleyball Rising Star. Those who did not made it to the presscon were Abe Avena - Asian Senior Golf Champ, PJ Tierro - the Tennis Rising Star, and LA Tenorio - Team Gilas Pilipinas Power Point Guard.


Rambla: Special Brunch Meals Every Weekend at Rockwell


Wazzup Pilipinas!

There's a quite new (only a few months old) Spanish Mediterranean restaurant at Rockwell, Makati located at the La Joya building along Joya Drive that you should check out. The restaurant is named after a famous street in Barcelona and is from the same hombres who gave us the Las Flores Tapas and Bar Restaurant over at Bonifacio Global City (BGC).

Rambla, with Spanish Chef Pepe Lopez as head chef, now offers special brunch dishes available during weekends. I was invited by Uri Singla, one of its owners, to try out them out so I could share my experience to everyone here in my blog. It was several months when Uri and I last saw each other, and I was glad he remembered to invite me again to share an afternoon with them.

Actually, I was earlier invited to try out some aged-old cocktails when they invited Giancarlo Mancino over at Rambla as a guest bartender but I had a previous appointment that I couldn't let go that night so I just sent over some representatives. They said the guy owns his own Vermouth and will present a master class for a few press people. According to my representatives, Giancarlo explained the process of the aged cocktail and gave everyone a chance to try them all. Too bad I missed it, but I have an article about it on Wazzup Pilipinas contributed by one of the representatives.

Anyway, I am grateful there was another event at Rambla where I got to dine on some of Chef Pepe's brunch creations available from 11 am until 4 pm.

Around the World in 15 Dates by Telu Events


Wazzup Pilipinas!


Telu Events
is hosting another speed dating event on May 31, 2014 entitled “Speed Dating: Around the World in 15 Dates.”

Specialized in organizing themed speed dating events, Telu Events will now focus on the theme on travel. All participants will receive Telu customized passport and boarding pass upon registration and the venue will be designed with travel paraphernalias. One will be able to date 15 people in one night at 5 minutes each and leave the rest of the matching to the organizers.

Still unsure? Speed dating events are organized not only for romantic pursuits but also to allow people socialize in a quick, fun and no pressure environment. Participants are usually professionals who want to meet people and expand their network for work, friendship or love. Some wanted to include such events as part of their bucketlist of things to experience. Telu Events always sees to it that participants go through age group and personality profiling to ensure high possibility of matches.

It’s time to get loose! It’s time to make this summer different from the rest!


Tuesday, May 6, 2014

Two Week MRT-3 Express Train Trial Starts on May 7


Wazzup Pilipinas!

In the meantime that the Department of Transportation and Communications’ (DOTC) long-term solutions – mainly the addition of 48 train coaches and the automation of ticketing systems – are still on the way, Metro Rail Transit III (MRT-3) management is exploring immediate measures to improve the rail system’s services.

After the successful testing of extended operating hours last February to March, an experimental run called the MRT-3 Express Train service will be conducted for two (2) weeks, from May 7 to 20.

“We hope that this trial run will yield positive results for passengers. Ideally, it will increase mobility – meaning it will get commuters from their origins to their destinations more quickly – as well as lessen waiting time at our most congested stations during peak hours,” said DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya.

Based on historical passenger volume data, most peak-hour weekday morning riders begin their trips at the North Avenue station. A substantial number also start from the Quezon Avenue, GMA-Kamuning, and Cubao stations. Most of these passengers alight at the Buendia, Ayala, Magallanes, and Taft Avenue stations.

LRT-MRT Ticketing Project Completely Aboveboard Says Abaya


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Reacting to initial reports that an Ombudsman case has been filed against him and other officials of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) in relation to the Automatic Fare Collection System (AFCS) Project, Secretary Joseph “Jun” Abaya vouches that laws and rules were properly followed in the project’s bidding process.

“We were sure to follow all bidding rules and processes very carefully. The process was completely aboveboard. This is why we are ready to face this complaint – as long as what you do is right, you have nothing to fear,” said Abaya.

“We have not received any official copy of the complaint yet. At this stage, we are only reacting to several news reports. We will review the complaint once we receive a copy, but we are not worried since we know that there was nothing irregular in the bidding out of the project,” he added.

According to initial reports, the complaint filed before the Ombudsman was made by a group called the National Coalition of Filipino Consumers or NCFC.

Brite Spokes Launches Experiential Travel with Exclusive Thematic Vacation Packages


Wazzup Pilipinas!

brite spokes by Kuoni (www.britespokes.com) is a new travel brand from an established tour wholesaler Kuoni that is now offering vacationers a variety of thematic trips, exclusive experiences and personally enriching adventures that were previously only available to independent travelers.

“We are excited and energized to launch brite spokes – a brand that will truly stand out in today’s evolving travel industry,” said Mark C. Morello, CEO, of brite spokes. “After a soft launch of the branded product in 2013, we’ve spent the past year developing itineraries that even the most seasoned travelers will find unique and packed with ‘remember forever’ experiences,” he continued.

brite spokes is seeking to capture the growing number of vacationers that over the past decade have repeatedly told researchers and pollsters that they are looking for experiential travel for their vacations.

"brite spokes experiential vacation packages have been created with current and developing travel trends in-mind as well as on-going feedback from our frontline researchers who test-run all of our itineraries to ensure seamless and exciting vacations," Morello added. “With a millennial mindset comes a travel brand focused around the kind of trips clients dream about and would plan if they had the time, as well as vacations other people actually want to hear about when travelers return home,” said Morello. “brite spokes representatives have great taste, incredible connections and stellar credentials ensuring their capability to effectively plan unique and spectacular travel experiences,” he added.

The Color Dash 2 Recipe: More Fun Run in the Philippines



Wazzup Pilipinas!

Color Dash upped its game last March 2, Sunday on its second year. This time, it was presented with the Call Center Association of the Philippines. Sixteen (16) colors dashed more than 5000 agents with family and friends.

The event started early in the morning with a warm up led by two fit ladies, Michaella Recto and Andrea del Rosario. The crowd had a great time doing their stretches buckled up with inspiration to get fit. As the gun start was fired, everyone was blown with colors at the start line. They were dashed with several colors throughout the course. When they reached the finished line, the sponsor booths were ready to accept them.

Several fun photo booths can be seen together with fun games like a sports drink bong by Easy Taxi while Manila Water had a roulette to give each spinner a prize amongst the other exciting booths.


Epson Invites Photographers Worldwide to Compete in the International Pano Awards


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Get a chance to win approximately $40,000 in cash and prizes at the Epson International Pano Awards. Epson, a leading digital imaging company, invites professional and amateur photographers around the world to enter their panoramic photography competition that is now on its fifth year. The competition is open to all professional and amateur photographers and early-bird entries are now open until 13 July 2014.

The Epson International Pano Awards is dedicated to the art of panoramic photography. It showcases the work of panoramic photographers worldwide and is the largest competition for panoramic photography. Advances in digital photography and editing software has resulted in a surge in the popularity of image stitching, especially in the panoramic format. Panoramic film photography also remains alive and well.

"Without a doubt, this world-class photographic competition represents an ever increasing standard of quality in both image capture and print. Each year we are seeing more and more captivating entries and the outstanding quality continues to impress me," said Craig Heckenberg, Business Unit Manager for Epson Australia.

Boracay Island TV Commercial from It's More Fun in the Philippines


Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Philippines' Department of Tourism (DOT) has recently released an international TV commercial showing that fun never fades in Boracay, Philippines - Asia's 24/7 island. The video advertisement intimately promotes Boracay as the place to be this summer. It encourages everyone to have their next vacation on the white sand beaches of this tropical paradise.

Boracay has been the ultimate beach destination. You are always "in" if you're hanging out there especially during summer. They've even coined a word "LaBoracay" capitalizing on the usually long break during Labor Day.
 
LaBoracay is an unofficial holiday festival that kicks off on May 1, the same time the Labor Day in the Philippines is commemorated.

Thousands of people from all over the country flock the island of Boracay, to have fun, bask in the sun and relax. Every part of the White Beach is filled to the brim with people enjoying the music, dancing, drinking and all kinds of merriment.

Every year the parties get wilder with a promise of one unforgettable summer experience.


Slimmers World Miss Bikini Philippines Pageant 2014: Spotlight on Beauties in Bikinis


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Last time we presented to you mostly only candidate number 16 of the Slimmers World Miss Bikini Philippines Pageant 2014 because she emerged as the judges favorite for winning two special awards. Let us now take a look this time at the other candidates all vying for the crown. We can't wait for May 13, 2014 when the winners will finally be announced at Resorts World Manila.

There were a total of 30 candidates (but how come I don't see candidate numbers 4 and 14 - missing in action?) all seemingly fit and fab as they strut their stuff and flaunted their assets at the catwalk setup during the press launch held at the Diamond Hotel just a few days ago. We saw them at their best wearing swimsuits where everyone was treated to really slim and sexy bodies. They also walked gracefully wearing very attractive and elegant long gowns that accentuated their beauties and pleasantly fit bodies.

I am sure everyone in the crowd were captivated with the adorable bodies that hang out at Slimmers World gyms. They've seen what several days of workout at Slimmers World can do to those people who want to look good and feel great as well. I believe it follows that when you are fit, with firm muscles and well maintained physique, your outlook in life will also become more vibrant and energetic. Slimmers World gives everyone a chance to make their bodies fitting to be called "works of art" that were sculptured to perfection.

Get ready to pick out your favorites from these gorgeous bodies all deserving to be called the Slimmers World Miss Bikini Philippines 2014.

Monday, May 5, 2014

Ideal Vision Lets You See the Ideal You


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Ideal Vision offers a wide variety of eyewear options to help you find the best one for your needs.

It’s all about options. This catchphrase holds true to a lot of aspects, from the most mundane of things like where to go for dinner on a Friday night to the big ones like a career change. Of course this also very much applies on one’s style.

Ideal Vision is all about options,” says Dr. Joy Go, Ideal Vision Center AVP for Marketing. “Your eyewear is pretty much like a haircut. There are styles that look good on you and there are those that don’t. So we want to offer a wide range of options until you find the best one that’s right for you.”

Ideal Vision has always been dedicated to providing unparalleled superior service to its consumers. Included in this thrust is to offer expertise that can guide people in choosing the best eyewear for them whether it be for fashion or functional purposes.

Of course this can only be delivered through the wide variety of options that Ideal Vision has. From high end names to practical brands, the brand has it all to make sure that anyone can find the eyewear that is perfect for their needs.

Viewsonic Launches “Get More with Viewsonic” Raffle Contest in the Philippines


Wazzup Pilipinas!

ViewSonic Corp., a leading global provider of computing, consumer electronics and communications solutions, is announcing its latest promotion dubbed as “Get More with ViewSonic”, a raffle and instant win promotion that is open to all Filipino residents, 18 years old and above. For every purchase of any Viewsonic monitors, customers are entitled to a raffle coupon to win attractive prizes as well as a chance to win small prizes instantly.

Raffle Prizes includes: Grand Prize: Asus Transformer Infinity Notebook (worth Php 29,995.00) and Minor Prize: 5 Winners of WD 1 TB My Passport

Instant Win Prizes includes: 300 pcs of Sodexo Gift Certificate worth 100 pesos, 100 pcs of Starbucks E-GC worth 300 pesos, 30 pcs of Ayala E-GC worth 500 pesos and finally, 15 pcs of 32 Gb Flash Drive

MRT-3 Coaches Bidding Saved Government P 3.5-B – Abaya


Wazzup Pilipinas!

For calling for an open and transparent bidding in the supply of train coaches to the Metro Rail Transit II (MRT-3), the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) was able to save no less than P3.348 Billion for the government.

DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya makes this observation following suggestions that his agency should have awarded the Inekon Group contract to supply MRT-3 with 48 coaches through a negotiated bid.

“The decision to bid the project out resulted in almost P 3.5 billion in savings, without sacrificing the quality of the train coaches. Those savings can now be used in other programs which will also improve public services. This is in accordance with our push for reforms and good governance at the DOTC,” said Abaya.

He brushed off claims that Inekon, a Czech corporation, had been blacklisted. He said the firm was in fact invited to participate in the bidding process, but it declined to do so despite the fact that it had purchased bid documents.

Saturday, May 3, 2014

Slimmers World Miss Bikini Philippines Pageant 2014 Press Launch


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Slimmers World International, Asia’s leader in slimming, health, fitness and beauty, conducts the official introduction of the candidates for the title Miss Bikini Philippines 2014 in the official press launch last May 2, 2014, 11 a.m. at the Diamond Ballroom of the Diamond Hotel, Manila.

From hundreds of aspirants, the candidate list was rigorously screened to 30. Representing the best of the best, the candidates are vying for over 2 million worth of cash and prizes alongside the title and the chance to serve country as the Philippine ambassador for slimming, health, fitness, and beauty and represent the country in the international pageants.

For the following weeks, the 30 candidates will undergo a rigorous regimen, housed together and strictly supervised by certified Physical Therapists, Licensed Nutritionists and Dieticians of Slimmers World. From their fitness routines on to their meal plans and skin regimens, Slimmers World will make sure the candidates take to the stage at their peak form, their bikini body best.

Coronation Night will be held on May 13, 2014 at the Resorts World Manila. The competition will be hosted by Paolo Bediones and DJ Sheryll Crystal.


Filipino Mixed Martial Artists Emerge Victorious at One FC: Rise of Heroes


Wazzup Pilipinas!

One Fighting Championship (One FC), Asia’s largest Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) organization with a 90% market share, impressed the sold-out crowd in attendance at the state-of-the-art Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena with One FC: Rise of Heroes. Fans were treated to an unforgettable night of mixed martial arts action, culminating in a successful title defense of the One FC Bantamweight World Championship by Bibiano Fernandes. Filipino fans in attendance also had reason to cheer, as all five Filipino mixed martial artists won their respective bouts.

Bibiano Fernandes displayed both grappling and striking skills en route to his first successful title defense. The first round of the main event was fairly even. Fernandes managed to take Masakatsu Ueda down, but Ueda reversed the position and landed a knee before time expired. Bibiano Fernandes established his dominance in the second round. He landed more strikes and also succeeded with a takedown attempt. Fernandes found success in the third round as well, ending the round with a rear naked choke attempt. Fernandes’ world class grappling prowess shone through in the championship rounds as Ueda failed to find an answer to his takedowns. All three judges scored the bout in Fernandes’ favour.

Striking pugilists Eduard Folayang and Kotetsu Boku went to battle in the co-main event, but it was Folayang’s improved wrestling skills that swung the bout in his favor. Both parties were highly respectful of each other’s striking pedigree and were hesitant to strike in the opening exchanges. Folayang took Boku down with an empathic slam in the first round, and came close to finishing the bout with an armbar attempt before time ran out. Folayang’s improved grappling was on full display in the second round, as he took Boku down on several attempts as well as grazed Boku with a spinning wheel kick. After a wild third round where both fighters attacked valiantly in search of the knockout finish, Folayang emerged with his hands raised with a unanimous decision victory.


Mother's Day is Special at Solaire: Ultimate Staycation and Gastronomic Adventure


Wazzup Pilipinas!

There is an old time saying that has guided many of us all throughout the years: "Mothers know best." You will keep hearing it everywhere. There must be a valid reason why it has been very popular, and why many recognize it as a global truth. Our mothers do know what is best for us.

I would have to strongly agree with the statement. It has been proven so many times, with very little exceptions, that mothers do know what is right for all of us. Mothers seem to have that gut feeling to always feel what is truly appropriate for us. We owe our mothers what we are right now, and we could never have reached our current status in life if they were not there to guide us through the better path.

To recognize the very special woman in our life, Solaire has thought of one of the best pampering for our dear mothers in celebration of Mother's Day. From the special discounted rates in the ultimate family staycation to the exquisite set menus in their fine dining establishments, they’ve made sure that this will be one unforgettable Mother’s Day.

Bring the entire family this ‘Mother’s Day weekend’ and stay in one of their luxurious suites with discounted rates. Under the Summer Family Getaway packages, their rooms go as low as PhP6,000++ for Deluxe Room Cityview and PhP7,000++ for the Deluxe Room Bayview. The special rates are also available in Grand Deluxe Cityview (PhP8,000++), Grand Deluxe Bayview (PhP9,000++) and 2-Bay Suite (PhP12,000).


Power Mac Center Launches 19th Store at SM Aura Premier; Introduces Brand Ambassadors


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Creating a brand new retail channel to enhance the shopping experience of Apple customers in the Philippines, Power Mac Center has inaugurated its newest location at SM Aura Premier. Located in an upscale mall at the heart of Taguig City, Power Mac Center SM Aura Premier is the company’s 19th retail store nationwide and the second to open this 2014.

Power Mac Center SM Aura Premier provides swift and convenient access to a wide range of Apple products and premium third party accessories to customers in the locale. An Apple Authorized Service Provider, the newly opened store boasts of a Service Center which caters to all service and repair needs of Mac computers and iOS devices.

Moreover, Power Mac Center SM Aura Premier is well-appointed with a Training Center that offers an array of courses and training programs, reflecting the company’s commitment to provide Apple products and solutions to satisfy the evolving electronic needs of the Filipino consumer.

“The opening of Power Mac Center in SM Aura Premier is a fitting testament to the company’s continued and accelerated efforts to reach out to our valued clients. Our new store heralds another company milestone as Power Mac Center commemorates this year its 20th anniversary in the business of providing a complete Apple experience,” said Power Mac Center Marketing Director Joey Alvarez.


"In Pursuit Of A Dream " Set On May 14 And 23


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Every artist have dreams to pursue, but it is how one conquers those dreams that make a difference. Over the last couple of months,Al Gatmaitan, one of the country’s topnotch tenors was quietly working on a dream project to further hone his craft as a theater actor.

Embarking on a major decision to widen Al Gatmaitan’s horizons, and to further advance his studies, he passed a rigorous audition process and was selected to be part of the New York University Steinhardt School for Music and Performing Arts Professions this coming June.

But before he takes a bite of the Big Apple, catch Al Gatmaitan: In Pursuit of a Dream – a special fund raising concert presented by The Philippine Opera Company and Grupo Reposo, in collaboration with LRI Design Plaza set on May 14 and 23, 2014. With Karl Estudillo, collaborative pianist, directed by Will Fredo.

The concert on May 14, 2014 (7:30 p.m.), will be at The Opera Haus located at 3657 Bautista Street, Brgy. Palanan, Makati. Special guest artists include: TV, film and stage actress Ms. Ayen Munji-Laurel, Sopranos Karla Gutierrez, Gabri Panlilio, and Janine Santos; Tenor Nazer Salcedo, Baritone Lawrence Jatayna and Mezzo Soprano Clarissa Ocampo.


A (Good Looking) Update to Spotify’s Android Users


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Just recently, Spotify has rolled out some exciting changes to their Android users.

First off, Spotify is introducing their new darker theme, refreshed typography and rounded iconography. Playing your favorite music has never looked so good.

Spotify is not only improving their look though. Spotify knows how much their users love playlists, but that they have been looking for more ways of managing their music. So over the past weeks, they have rolled out Your Music: helping users save, organize and browse their favorite music the way they want to.

They are also improving their Browse feature, delivering even more relevant and localized content. So regardless of whether Spotify users are looking for something to fall asleep to, or the perfect playlist to get them geared up for their big night out, finding the right music for every moment is easier than ever.


Friday, May 2, 2014

Aliwan Fiesta 2014: The Mother of All Fiestas


Wazzup Pilipinas!

The word "aliwan" is a Tagalog word that means "entertainment" or "amusement." The Aliwan Fiesta is a celebration of life, culture, unity and festivities. Each province showcased their cultural diversity as they compete in dance parade, float competitions, as well as in a beauty pageant. True enough every year, everyone continues to be amazed of the sights and sounds of this spectacular and colorful event. Let us all show to the world the richness of the different Filipino cultures and heritage and be proud of it! The annual event is organized by the Manila Broadcasting Company (MBC) together with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and the cities of Manila and Pasay in cooperation with the Department of Tourism (DOT).

The Cebu Sinulog Festival represented by Lumad Basakanon of Cebu City won as the best among the contingents who joined the Aliwan Fiesta 2014. They won as Best in Costume, Best in Music and as the Streetdance Grand Champion. The First Runner Up went to the Meguyaya Festival, Upi Maguindanao. The 2nd Runner Up went to Tnalak Festival represented by Municipality of Santo Niño South Cotabato. Laoag City's Pamulinawen Festival brought home the 3rd place. 

The Pride of Place Best in Folkloric Choreography winner was Adivay Festival of Kabayan Benguet. The Reyna ng Aliwan Fiesta 2014 was won by Steffi Rose Pearson Aberasturri representing Cebu Sinulog Festival.


Thursday, May 1, 2014

The Philippine Top Choice Awards for Excellence 2014


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Good businesses ensure their energy is focused on giving exceptional service.They seek out and develop talented, free-thinking people with the imagination and initiative to make a difference. They organize themselves to operate in ways to bring out the best team to do the job in hand and the one needed tomorrow. Their systems work to support their people, not the other way around.

They encourage involvement at all levels of the business so that clients and customers are impressed at the commitment regardless of which employees answer the phone or opens the door to them. Great businesses go further, they look to provide the products and services others want to buy in a sustainable way. They use profit not just to pay themselves and employ their staff but to invest in the future. It is this level of achievement that awards like the Philippine Top Choice Awards for Excellence are set out to acknowledge and reward.

Wazzup Pilipinas is proud to be the recipient of the Top Filipino Community Blog Site award from the Philippine Top Choice Awards for Excellence. It is with great appreciation to be recognized for the fourth time as an entity that excels in its field. We will receive this recognition with great pride and a promise to continue to elevate our standards for the welfare of our readers, partners and sponsors.


Mission EO 255: A 5K Campaign Run for Stricter Implementation of Executive Order 255


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Can you finish 5K in 25.5 minutes? Run with us on May 18 and see if you can!


The Organisasyon ng Pilipinong Mangaawit (OPM) - the leading and most respected organization of Filipino professional singers in the country, in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), is holding a campaign run dubbed as Mission: EO 255 for the stricter implementation of Executive Order 255.

This will be held on 18 May 2014 at the G-Strip in Greenhills, San Juan. The race will kick off at 5AM.

The event aims to raise awareness of and encourage the radio stations’ full adherence to the above-mentioned Executive Order, issued by former Pres. Corazon Aquino in 1987, requiring all radio stations with musical format programs to broadcast a minimum of four (4) original Pilipino musical compositions in every clock hour.

“OPM aims to ensure the growth of the local music industry; thus, it is very important that all radio stations implement EO 255,” said OPM President Ogie Alcasid.  Furthermore, “Not only are we launching the campaign to remind radio stations – and a big thank you to those who do implement EO 255 – but also to let the public know that they can expect a minimum of four OPM songs to be played per hour on all radio channels so as to make the implementation of EO 255 participative.”

Cockfighting Tour: A Visit at the La Loma Cockpit


Wazzup Pilipinas!

My grandfather was a "sabungero" or "mananabong" (cockfighter). I remember him visiting our home so early in the morning to bring us some "puto" (rice cakes) from the "palengke" (public market) before proceeding to the cockpit which was just one ride away from our home. His routine would be to pass first by the public market near their home (one city away) to buy those rice cakes for us, then head on over to our home to drop off the treats. I was still in grade school but I remember him vividly well because my parents would always wake us up when he arrives. He will not join us for breakfast and will only have coffee before he leaves for the cockpit. I can still remember the rooster or cock which he carries around inside a box filled with holes and has a handle for convenience in carrying.

I was still too young to realize he was into cockfighting. During those days I thought it was just one of his pets. We had our own share of pets during my younger years. We had rabbits, ducks, dogs, turtles, chickens, and lots of birds of different kinds that made our home look like a mini-zoo. It never occurred to me that you can train animals to fight each other. All I've personally seen close to it during those days was spider fighting among my friends. My playmates would capture and force spiders to fight atop a stick. We would hunt for spiders at nearby areas where lots of trees used to exist, and put them inside matchbox cages. There was indeed a lot of thrill and excitement to see those little creatures fight each other. I can imagine right now what it feels like when cockfighters do the same with their cocks. 

Cockfighting is a blood sport in which two cocks bred for aggressiveness are encouraged to fight to the death. It happens in many neighborhoods especially in the provinces around the country. It is however considered illegal and a felony in many other countries. The chickens are pumped up with stimulants and have sharp razor blades or ice-pick-like gaffes affixed to their legs. They hack each other to death at the cockpit ring to the amazement of the spectators. Punctured bodies, gouged eyes, and other grievous wounds are part-and-parcel of cockfighting. It is a way of gambling in the Philippines but it is also seen as a national sport where both the rich and poor gather and witness some kind of extreme confrontation between fighting birds.

Ang Pambansang Blog ng Pilipinas Wazzup Pilipinas and the Umalohokans. Ang Pambansang Blog ng Pilipinas celebrating 10th year of online presence
 
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