2014-06-29 ~ Wazzup Pilipinas News and Events

Monday, July 7, 2014

Fluid: A Reinterpretation of Palanca Award-Winning Play All Set to Open on July 24

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The De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde’s Technical Theater Program Batch 111 proudly presents a reinterpretation of the Palanca Award-winning play, “ FLUID ”.

Written and directed by Floy Quintos, the comedy is about young Filipino contemporary artists struggling to make a name for themselves as they negotiate the tricky terrain between Love, Art and Compromise.

“ FLUID ” is set to open on July 24 and shall continue to run on July 25 and 26 (1:00 pm and 7:00 pm) at the 5/F SDA Theater, School of Design and Arts Campus, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, 950 P. Ocampo St., Malate, Manila. A press preview is set on July 23 at 7 p.m.

“ FLUID ” is written as a series of scenes in different locations featuring three pairs of characters who seemingly have nothing to do with each other. Amir is a struggling and frustrated young painter whose life is about to be changed by Mira a wealthy art collector who dreams of discovering new talent. Jom and Alben are passionate theater actors torn between their passion for their craft and the lure of fame. Renata is a seemingly batty orchestra coordinator out to defend the dignity of her orchestra when it is hired to play at a society wedding by the overbearing events coordinator, Simone. All these unique and clashing characters come together unexpectedly at an art exhibit where their impulses lead to joyful mayhem.

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Last June 27, a group of volunteers brought smiles to the faces of children afflicted with cancer through the “Portraits of Love” charity event. Organized by renowned photographer Pilar Tuason and in cooperation with the Kythe Foundation, the event gave the children a magical day full of laughter and love.

“This year, I wanted to do something with Kythe. I asked them if they had something set up and they said they didn’t have anything. If I wanted to come up with something then I’d have to do it on my own. They said that if I want, I could just take pictures in the ward. But it’s not the same. In the ward they’re getting their treatment. They’re sad, they’re lethargic. So I said I’ll do it. I have a lot of good friends, volunteers. We can’t call this as my project – I think it’s everyone’s project,” said Tuason.

When asked why she initiated this activity, Tuason replied, “They’re having a great time; for them, it’s a huge party. Everyone is a celebrant here. And for the parents, it’s a good break from being in the room, waiting for treatment every Friday. This is something different for them.” The kids enjoyed several attractions, including a magic and puppet show, a dancing Jollibee, and a football tutorial by Team Socceroo Football Club from the United Football League (UFL). Pilar Tuason took portraits of the children and with their parents, which were printed with Epson’s L800 genuine ink tank system photo printer.

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I was destined to drive the MINI. That's for sure! Of all the luck in the world, I had to be given the opportunity to be among the first ones to test drive the Mini for more than 24 hours around the streets of Metro Manila. I took it home with me on the night of the first day, and drove it again the following day on a road trip with my wife and kids.

My wife and I were comfortable upfront, but my three kids felt crowded at the back. It seems the MINI is not meant for a family of five. My kids are almost as big as us so that's where the problem lies. They just grew up to fast for us to realize they are of adult size already.

If they were still on their elementary years, they would have fit very nicely, but the particular MINI that I got was just too small for them. But we did manage to go around the Metro with very little complaint form them - that is after a few hours of driving.

From its location in the Bonifacio Global City showroom, I took it with me in Makati to meet up a blogger friend for a restaurant review. I was a given a chance to review Top of the Citi, one of the three famous restaurants of renowned Chef Jessie. I think it took me three hours before we were done so I paid for three hours of parking near the Citibank Towers.

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“Dancing in the Light” is a multi-media concert that interprets profound truths through the arts. The words of wisdom of spiritual leader and life coach Dadi Janki come alive through theatre, dance, music, video and sculpture. This one-woman show is performed by Marge Enriquez, directed by Bart Guingona and choreographed by Douglas Nierras. The videos were shot on location at Avellana Art Gallery by Galileo Te of Indioboy productions.

“Dancing in the Light” will be shown on July 24 at 7:30 pm at Onstage, Greenbelt 1. The free concert is made possible through Calata Corporation, Piandré, Belo Medical Group, Century Properties, Fila, Neurobion, Penshoppe, Prestige Brands, Manila Broadcasting Company, Natimars Foundation, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp., Vonotec and Watsons.

For details, contact 0917-980-3541.

Bambike Ecotours of Intramuros: The Coolest Way to Tour Intramuros

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"Bambike Ecotours Intramuros is an exciting and educational ecotourism activity in the heart of Manila’s old walled city of Intramuros. Guests will be riding through the streets on bamboo bikes that have been handmade by Gawad Kalinga villagers here in the Philippines. Tourists will be led around the area, getting to cover more ground than if on a walking tour and having a more interesting experience than if going around on a calesa.This ecotour will both teach visitors about Philippine history and make them feel like kids again."

I agree to their Facebook page description. The tour will make you feel like a kid again. That's for sure. I saw these in the faces of my fellow bloggers before they proceeded with the actual tour. Yes! I mean "they" for I had to miss the opportunity to ride with them and Bryan, the proprietor and brains behind "Bambike" because I had to pick up a Mini Cooper S at the Bonifacio Global City Mini showroom. The guys at Mini scheduled the pick-up the same time I was supposed to be riding with the Wazzup Pilipinas community.

It was between riding a Bambike and a Mini...I would have chosen the Bambike but Bryan made it easier for me - he gave me another opportunity to join them in any schedule tour. Thus after taking a group photo with them, I ran off to the Mini showroom all eager and excited to drive like there was no tomorrow (joke). Seriously, I was very careful in driving the Mini since it was not mine to begin with.

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I am a frustrated artist. I loved to draw during my younger years. I even had my own line of characters similar to the popular groups back when I was still studying. Name all the cartoons and I had my own version patterned after them. My own superhero team, my own transforming robots, my own creations with their distinct personalities, costumes and personal backgrounds.

I could have been a Fine Arts student, but my parents said there was no future in the arts. They were implying, but obviously stating, that there's no financial assurance in drawing, sketching, painting, or whatever form it may be.

I ended up taking an Engineering course from one of the reputable colleges in Manila. But even until now after graduation and several employments with top-notch multi-national corporations and organizations, I somehow still feel incomplete and empty. I keep longing for opportunities to apply my artistry and creativity. Some could probably see it in my past works - I was always appointed as the presentation master since I was great at Powerpoint,, the one who draws for the assignments or homeworks of my cousins, and the one who prepares announcement posters for the company. They chose me because they can see that I know how to match colors that will look good. I have an eye for beauty as I lay-out posters and ads, - in other words - the desire to be creative always shines out in almost everything that I do.

Attending the Icon Manila 2014 event made me realize that these guest artists share a common story with me. Not all of them intended to be an artist. Most of them ended up at their work because the passion was there. It seems noone really can be stopped if there is passion inside still burning and yearning to get out. No amount of opportunity will be reason enough if there was no passion. For them, when the opportunity came, they grabbed it. Some may have worked for it all of their life, but it would have not lasts if there was no passion.

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Basketball fanatics had another awesome NBA experience with the return of the NBA 3X here in the Philippines. Presented by Sprite, boys and girls of all skill levels - with an open division for men and women - were able to participate and vie for top honors and bragging rights at the SM Mall of Asia and Philippine International Convention Center from July 4 to 6, 2014.

At a press conference held at the NBA Cafe of SM Aura located in Bonifacio Global City, members of the media had the opportunity to interview popular personalities like Toronto Raptors' DeMar DeRozan, Los Angeles Lakers' Wesley Johnson, the Raptors Dance Pak, and Sacramento Kings' Slamson the Lion.

Coco-Cola executive Adel Tamano was there to represent Sprite, and joined the organizers from NBA Philippines in a photo ops, along with the celebrity guests.

Aside from the competitive 3x3 tournaments, the NBA 3X Philippines 2014 celebrates basketball and the NBA with many free fan activities like a slam dunk contest, basketball clinics, 3-point shoot-outs, skill challenges, autograph sessions, live bands and DJs, NBA merchandize giveaways, and appearances of local celebrities at a celebrity division 3x3 tournament.

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The International Film Expo 2014 with a theme of "Your Film Corridor to Asia" was held at the SMX Convention Center of the Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City last June 27 to 29, 2014. The event is one of the premier film expositions that brought together the world’s most prominent players in the film industry and showcased the best and the latest trends surrounding the global film market.

The expo features several exhibitors from all over the world and a series of symposia covering a wide array of topics about the state, challenges, and opportunities surrounding the film industry worldwide. The conference brought together international stakeholders in film that discussed critical issues affecting the film industry worldwide, present technological advances and promote education as a tool towards a future-ready film industry.

Primarily brought to us by the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), the expo aims to make the Philippines a central hub for international film providers eying the Asian market through co-productions, partnerships, and other mutually beneficial arrangements. The expo featured reputable local and international production companies, film schools, film equipment suppliers, and other organizations like RSVP Film Studios, Black Magic Design, Array’s Technology, Inc., CMB Film Services, Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation from South Korea, just to name few. The FDCP hopes to continue developing more opportunities for partnership and growth for local and international filmmakers.

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Tanghalang Ateneo’s repertoire of plays is daunting: world classics, Filipino originals, and documentary texts turned into theater pieces. Its productions are noted for thought, generosity, and energy, while its lingua franca on stage is both Filipino and English.

The longest-running theater company of the Loyola Schools, Ateneo de Manila University uses theater to foster eloquentia, sapientia, and humanitas – the pillars of Jesuit pedagogy. It sees itself as a theater company in the service of student formation, and by extension – given the Jesuit ideal of magis – a theater in service of the nation.

Since its founding in 1972 (and formally recognized five years later), Tanghalang Ateneo has grown from a fledgling band of student players to one of the country’s leading school-based theater companies.

Tanghalang Ateneo proudly announces its 36th season line-up for the school year 2014-2015 consisting of three productions with the theme “Navigating Identities” revolving around man's need to define himself and his significance in the world.

Nominate Wazzup Pilipinas to the Globe Tatt Awards as Best Lifestyle Blog

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Please nominate our blog to the Globe Tatt Awards 2014 as the Best Lifestyle Blog/Microblog. Please vote for Wazzup Pilipinas and let us all share the recognition - because we are a community, and our community is one! We are Wazzup Pilipinas!

Nominations are open until July 10, and voting starts on July 15. Why nominate for Wazzup Pilipinas? Aside from its already existing awards as Top Emerging Blog of 2013, Most Outstanding Filipino Community Blog Site of 2013, Best Filipino Community Blog Site of 2014, and Top Filipino Community Blog Site of 2014, the blog is a merging of uber creative and passionate correspondents of mixed age, specialties and background - as young as high school students to as experienced as professional bloggers, writers and employees that are all sharing their stories to the world in support of the It's More Fun in the Philippines program of the Department of Tourism.

Its founder, Ross Flores Del Rosario, was also awarded as Best Choice Influential Social Media Evangelist of which formal awarding ceremonies will be held on July 25, 2014 at the Crowne Plaza located in Ortigas, Pasig city.

Please click on the link below to take you to the voting site:

http://www.tattawards2014.com?kid=3G03P

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The Department of Transportation and Communications’ (DOTC) push to modernize urban mobility by introducing the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system to the country has garnered praises from foreign and local advocates of democratized, sustainable, and environmentally-friendly transport systems.

“The goal is not simply to modernize transport facilities and improve commuter experience, it is also to provide the public with a better quality of life. Due to the fast, efficient, and convenient features of BRTs, they save passengers the time normally wasted in traffic jams. BRTs allow people to be more productive and to have better access to opportunities,” remarked DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya.

The Cebu BRT project of the DOTC, recently approved by the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), was first conceptualized as early as the 1990s. This P 10.6-Billion project is financed by the World Bank through its Clean Technology Fund.

Nigel Paul Villarete, who was City Administrator and later City Planning Officer of Cebu, was in charge of project development. Villarete says that: “The fulfillment of the Cebu BRT will change the face of Metro Cebu forever, and will auger well for the metropolis to become a people-oriented, humane, sustainable, and livable city in the future, where the rich share the same ride with the poor. The BRT is not just a transportation project, it’s an urban improvement project.”

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The Department of Tourism (DOT) sees strong interest from international cruise lines increasing their ports of call and expanding visits to more islands in the country.

Speaking before guests and industry stakeholders during the Philippine Cruise Industry Workshop held last week at the Makati Shangri-la, Tourism Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez, Jr. said that cruise arrivals in the Philippines grew by 48 percent in the last two years since 2011 amounting close to 20,000 in 2013. And while the country’s cruise infrastructure is being developed, international cruise lines calling in the country have increased substantially, with 16 cruise vessels last year from just 10 in 2011.

“We are expecting some 18 cruise ships this year that should bring in more than 20,000 tourists. Our country’s proximity to major cruise source markets like China, Japan, and Hong Kong positions us at a competitive and comparative advantage in the Asia-Pacific region. This should give industry stakeholders greater prospects and our local communities new jobs and opportunities,” the tourism chief added.

Secretary Jimenez believes that what is now considered a niche market will see an increase in demand in the years ahead. “Preparation is absolutely essential. And that is what this workshop precisely calls for—to formulate a national cruise development plan that will chart the Philippines’ role in the cruising business in Southeast Asia,” he further explained.

The Evolution of a Blogger: The Top Blogger of the Philippines

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There should be no exceptions! Yes! Except for press releases? Nah! Except for very technical topics? Nah! Except for events or products that were not worthy of any praises? Nah! To blog or not to blog? That is the question! But please don't min my ramblings as I am purely talking to myself. In the end it is still all up to me. I chose to put whatever I want in my blog. My blog, my rules! Like it or hate it, you don't dictate to me what I want to put in my blog, so accept it as the only truth, for I am the only one liable to its contents.

The blogger has evolved. That's for sure! Modern day professional bloggers now exist because the needs and demands call for it. Only a few remain that are truly keeping to the original intention of what a blog is all about. Bloggers have adapted to the times, and the technology.

Some would even be identified as "top" bloggers - forming themselves into groups and calling themselves elite, authorities, and A-list... laughable but merely a branding strategy to uplift themselves in the eyes of potential clients. Yey! We're above and beyond the rest of the indies out there! We're an exclusive batch of self-declared prominent bloggers backed by years of experience and maturity - in other words, we are old and desperate for some attention.

It is good to create a union, but it is bad to close the opportunities to newbies because we all know that the new generation may also have fresh innovative ideas that even experienced bloggers may be unable to realize. The rookies were newly-trained and are most probably backed by more advanced learning that could be better appreciated by majority of their readers.

Upbeat Economy Results in Bullish Business Gifts Industry

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The Philippines is currently enjoying revived confidence from domestic and international business, as evidenced by, among other things, upgraded ratings from the world’s leading credit rating agencies. These improvements have directly resulted in an upbeat corporate gifts and rewards industry, poised to take advantage of the increased economic activity.

Hundreds of the country’s most reliable suppliers of business gift items are set to showcase their products and services at the annual Corporate Giveaways Buyers’ Show, the Philippines longest-running and most successful trade exhibition on business gifts, premiums, promotional ideas and merchandise incentives.

Now on its 27th year, the Corporate Giveaways Buyers’ Show regularly attracts purchasing managers, marketing and event professionals, HR practitioners, public relations specialists who visit the show to explore and source their year-round business gifts requirements, office solutions and even food and beverage gift options. It is scheduled on July 9-11 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.

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"Our young are falling prey to and are being devoured by their quest for power via a brotherhood that is fake."

Who in his right mind would believe a group of people who claim to be your best friends forever (BFFs) in exchange of beating you to a pulp during acceptance rites. I believe it should be the other way around. Try beating them up to a pulp and see if they will still love you after they are all bloody black, red and blue.

These things happen at prominent colleges and university without the knowledge of anybody at the top of the school? I'm betting many of the students are aware and could easily point fingers but the so-called death threats from the brotherhood are preventing them to do so.

This could easily be remedied if the students all band together with a promise of protection and safety from the authorities. However, there have been many graduates already that are part of the brotherhood. The lucky ones who made it and whose bodies were strong enough to tolerate and endure the pain.

These hazing deaths have been going on for years, and why has it not stopped the fraternities? There is only one answer to this question - the stench is much worst to what we could only see. There are poop out of the fart that we hear....and it smells so bad that it reaches all the way up to the top of the city.

The situation is all fucked up...but that's normal for many.

Business Tips for Young People

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Back then, the common scenario in the corporate industry is that the old people are wearing newly pressed suits while bringing their suitcases and walking briskly on their way to board meetings. This is the typical face of the business industry for a long time. Not until young risk-takers started to join the field and made way to their own adventures in business. Whether you are still a student or just a fresh graduate, here are some of the things you need to remember if you want to start a business:

Find where you are good at

Not only where you are good at but also something that you love doing. Doing things without passion can be suicidal for your business. You’ll easily get tired of it and chances are, you’ll quit even before your business takes off. Aside from that, it’s more convenient to start a business wherein you’re already an expert.

Look for connections

Your connections can be your market since you are still starting. Asking for your friends and relatives may help you widen your network. Once you finally got these people who buy from you, you must learn about customer retention.

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Do you know what motivates athletes and teams to do their best? Do you want to know the right approaches to build a champion team?

Veteran team building facilitator, management consultant, and long time sports writer Lito Cinco is conducting a free two-part sports psychology seminar. The seminar focuses on mental strengthening of individual athletes and building a team. This will be on July 10 and 24 at the ROX at Bonifacio High Street in Bonifacio Global City from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Backed by 3M Futuro, a full line of supports, braces and compression products, the seminars dubbed " Skills & Attitude, Life's Winning Combination”. It will increase awareness among athletes and coaches on the importance of sports psychology to help enhance the performance of athletes and teams with specific steps and recommended applications.

The seminar is on a first come-first served basis and is limited to 50 participants. Athletes, coaches and coaching enthusiasts are advised to be at the venue before the seminar starts. Snacks and product give aways will be given to the participants.

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Professional photographers Mark Nicdao and BJ Pascual never fails to amaze me with his artistic shots full of creativity. His shot with Ellen Adarna for the Special Collectors' Issue of Preview Magazine's "Skin" is also oozing with sensuality and really spells SKIN.

The cover is more than a photoshoot. It is a work of art. The inside photos continues to sizzle and wet the imagination of the readers. Skin is bared but not too much to keep thoughts still wandering. There are still some left to the mind to play and linger with.

Sorry to the haters, but if you can't see the art in this collaborative effort then you are too malicious.

Like they said, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, so to the ones who only see nudity in this series of shots merged into a masterpiece are those that are either too conservative or too dim-witted to accept that beauty is a reflection of your idenity. If you can't see any sense of beauty, then your minds are too down the drain already.

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Richard Gutierrez, Sarah Lahbati and Baby Zion on the cover of Smart Parenting?

Aside from being a controversial couple, I don't see anything else that exactly makes them "smart" "parents"?

The magazine must be only banking on the popularity of the issue that surrounds the couple and their baby. They are not really applicable to be on the cover. Face value does not justify being anywhere within your magazine that carries the title of both "smart" and "parenting". Neither of the two represent any of the attributes.

Is keeping your child in secret for a year or shall I say from the time of pregnacy a good example of a smart parent??? Hmmm I guess not!

"Would it be more appropriate if you feature parents who are legally married as a role model? Yes they look good & gorgeous but what about the moral values we're instilling in the young people's mind....be more responsible please!"

I would have wanted to see Team Kramer or Team Melason on their cover, instead of the Guttierez. It takes Gutz to be a Guttierez, yeah...talk to my hand. It's a good influencer for the young viewers to view the mag as a family oriented wholistic reading material.

Sandara Park Covers Meg Magazine July 2014

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Do you remember Korean Sandara Park from her love team with Star Circle Quest main winner Hero Angeles. Well, we don't see Hero anymore but Sandara left the Philippines and joined an all-girl Korean pop group named 2NE1.

Has she truly leveled up on her career from her popularity here in the Philippines? Version 2.0? Compared to the big winner of Star Circle Quest, that may be a big Yes...but 2NE1 seems to be just popular in Asia, and not really a big hit anywhere else. Correct me if I'm wrong but I don't see much of the group in the news.

The South Korean K-Pop group member now covers Meg magazine July 2014 issue wearing an attire consisting of a blue jacket, stripped jeans and a partial reveal of her belly button because of a hanging beige top.

Dara or Sandy, as some of her friends call her, also recently appeared at an episode of Pinoy Big Brother All-In show - the scripted and not really true-to-life representation of what actual life really is. The show is even under heat when the so-called "Kuya" ordered for a "nude painting" task among the house mates. Horny big brother just couldn't stop himself from making the show controversial in the eagerness to get as much rating as possible.

The magazine has articles like how to Up-Style your basic get-up, 4 underdog stories, and a guide to lipstick.

Thursday, July 3, 2014

What Happened to That 1996 Lease Agreement?

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There was a 1996 lease agreement that was signed which was signed by Camp John Hay Development Corporation and Bases Conversion and Development Authority where Bob Sobrepena was supposed to pay an annual rent of P425 million or 5% of the gross sales whichever of the two is higher. I don’t know what they were thinking when they signed that because it is clearly a one sided deal in favor of the BCDA. It is no surprise how CJHDevCo struggled in their first 5 years since this was supposed to last for the first 5 years of the contract.

The lease payment of CJHDevCo should belong to the city of Baguio and not BCDA. The mayor himself has expressed concern that this has gone on too far. He is calling for BCDA to participate in the proceedings in order to find out who really is at fault. It is obvious BCDA CEO Arnel Casanova has gone overboard with all of his accusations towards Bobby. One way or the other, the two parties are going to resolve this matter. However, Casanova won’t stop pinning accusations on Sobrepena like there is some kind of personal grudge between them.

The 1996 lease agreement was restructured in 2000 due to the fact that the operations of Camp John Hay were adversely affected resulting to a loss of P1.445 billion. I really felt sorry for Bobby because of that. It is not easy to run a business and he had to take a major step back down because of what he lost there. President Aquino’s PPP program would have benefitted both parties if they agree to resolve the case. However, that is not going to happen anytime soon and we have Arnel Casanova to thank for that. He should really think more about the country than himself.

New Leadership in DOTC Better Make the Right Call

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Mar Roxas has one of the biggest decisions to make in his long term as the vice president of the country since he has just been appointed as the new head of the Department of Transportation and Communication or DoTC. Mar Roxas is expected to be one of the frontrunners for the next presidential race so his decision here could either make or break his candidacy since there is expected to be a lot of sleeper candidates for that election. For now, Roxas chose to freeze all talks with the Metro Pacific Investments Corporation regarding their proposal that would take 30 years in improving the MRT line 3.

The MRT line 3 is the longest train in the country as it stretches along the country’s longest street, the Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue or EDSA for short. This street is known for very heavy traffic during rush hour which is why the MRT was put here in the first place. The MRT is not really ideal for most people when they exit the office though as they would rather ride the bus going home since it is going to be tough to get in the MRT during 5 to 6 PM on weekdays.

The Metro Investments Pacific Corporation will invest a whopping $650 million for this project. That amount is probably something I will never reach in my life so we are all lucky they made this proposal. They would even buy Development Bank of the Philippines and Land Bank of the Philippines. Is this going to take out the long lines during rush hour? Probably not! However, it will surely minimize it to the extent that it won’t become a bothersome sight to most observers. Because of this, the government won’t propose silly schemes to cut down on the number of people riding the MRT.

Entrepreneurs Explore Opportunities at Entrepreneur & Franchise Expo 2014

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The recently concluded Entrepreneur & Franchise Expo 2014 opened business opportunities to business professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs last June 27-29, 2014 at the Megatrade Hall 1, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City. With the tagline “Your Step to Success!” the expo was dedicated to empower over 100 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) from various business sectors.

Organized by MediaCom Solutions, Inc, sponsored by Injoy Philippines, 2Go Express, Globe MyBusiness, Benchmark Email Marketing, Uber Technologies, Infinity Hub and Gleent Innovations, the Entrepreneur & Franchise Expo 2014 was officially launched last Friday, June 27, 2014. The opening and ribbon cutting ceremony was attended by local and international entrepreneurs and business executives from various industry sectors that supported the expo’s advocacy. Gracing the event was Mandaluyong City Councilor and Vice Chair for MSME Development Council, honorable CHARISSE ABALOS; Young Entrepreneur Society Philippines President, HENRY ONG; Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Mandaluyong President, ANDREW ONG; ATTY. NIKKI DE VEGA, President of Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Mandaluyong; together with 2Go Express AVP for Retail Sales and Marketing JOANNE RAMOS; Globe MyBusiness Trade Marketing Manager for Emerging Channels KRISTINE TRAVINO; celebrity food entrepreneur KIAN KAZEMI, president of Persia Grill; email marketing innovator CHUCK SCHIPPER, director & business development EMEAA @ Benchmark Internet Group, LLC (USA), international networking entrepreneur NILS WALLE, founder of the Freight Summit (Hong Kong); branding and design entrepreneur GILMAR PADUA, founder of Infinity Hub; CHRISTIAN RAEUBER of MediaCom Solutions Inc.; design strategist and brand expert BRIAN TENORIO, founder of KKK Coffee; Australian Actress singer lead in 'The Boston' Kitchen Musical and GMA talent NATALIA MOON, celebrity entrepreneur and Mercato Centrale co-founder RJ LEDESMA, and many more.

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The search for the first-ever Filipino representative to the Red Bull (Blue & Silver) Thre3style World Championships 2014 this year culminated in one epic night of partying at the Philippine finals held at the famed Republiq Club in Resorts World Manila. The event saw six qualifying winners battle it out with their DJing skills, technical wizardry and ability to light the dance floor on fire.

Making the cut from the Cebu qualifier last June 21 and rocking the Republiq crowd were: two-time Australian QLD DMC champion DJ K Groove (Kristian Hernandez) who brought his mad turntable skills to the fore just like he’s done in Sydney, Paris, London, New York, Barcelona and Tokyo; DJ Niki Del Rosario, who funked up the proceedings with his mixed-genre party set that got everyone jumping around and cheering for more; and the Cebu’s overall winner DJ Carlo Atendido, whose varied set of funky beats, pop gems and club favorites, added surprise elements and showmanship elicited massive crowd response.

Not to be outdone, the DJs from the Manila qualifier last June 26 were battle-ready: DJ Aryan (Aryan Magat) stepped up with his trademark party style and eclectic mix that got the crowd chanting – a familiar scene in residencies in top clubs from Makati to Cebu, Boracay to Vietnam; DJ Nix Damn P (Nix Pernia) rocked the party with bold choices, including Tagalog tracks, slow tunes and a cheeky recorded cellphone conversation with Ramon Bautista to cap off his set; and Manila’s overall winner DJ Supreme Fist, a 2008 Pioneer Philippines DJ Digital Battle Champion, electrified the night with a monster mix of groove, funk, soul, hip hop, dub and disco, and threw in bits of “Yugyugan Na” midway through his set that got people singing “sige na, sige na, sige na, sige na!”

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When you retire and fate gives you a chance to pursue your first love, would you?

Follow Cory, who is in her 60's, as she takes a leap to reignite an old flame in a story that would give an interestingly different look at love in 1st Ko si 3rd, an official entry to the 2014 Cinemalaya Film Festival.

The movie is about that "what if" of the heart and giving it a second chance. The lead character, Cory, is played by veteran comedienne Ms. Nova Villa who once again is partnering with her on-screen duo, Mr. Freddie Webb. The latter is playing Cory's love interest, Third.

For the first time in years the duo brings back to life their chemistry in cinemas by reliving their love team. This time however the comic antics are tamed to a level of serious but light depiction of sensible situations.

1st Ko si 3rd is written and directed by Real Florido and will be showing at the Cultural Center of the Philippines and Ayala Cinemas on August 1 to 10, 2014.

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Who doesn't love magic? Magic opens up a whole new world especially to the first-timers. Every child, and even adults, are totally awed seeing magicians perform almost unexplainable feats in a way that both baffles and amazes. Call it illusion, slight of hand, fast reflexes that tricks the senses...whatever it may be, some consider it as a form of art that stimulates the imagination and entertains the mind.

If you want to be entertained with magic, catch Aleng Maliit, Ryzza Mae Dizon and Pilipinas Got Talent's very own, Rico the Magician as they perform live at Solaire Grand Ballroom on July 12, 2014 at 4pm.

Catch this once in a lifetime Magic Show brought to you by Showbiz Mansion Entertainment in partnership with Solaire Resort and Casino.

For tickets and queries, call or text 0921.234.4257 or 0906.1601562

For more information please check the following links:

1. Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Showbiz-Mansion-Entertainment/1500672743495992?ref=hl

2. Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1420901721516354/

Please also join the contest below to win silver tickets to the show:

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Young people use the power of social media to raise awareness on Manila’s forgotten but beloved heritage street in this all-day arts, music and food fest.

After its postponement last week due to a bad weather forecast, #selfiEscolta: The Manila Street Heritage Festival will finally hit the historic district as well as our social media feeds this Saturday! Finally, the Queen of Manila’s streets is reclaiming her crown as a relevant and productive district in modern times.

This event will be held along Calle Escolta on July 5, 2014 (Saturday), from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm. It aims to raise awareness and help boost local tourism by featuring various simultaneous activities to showcase Manila’s famed district. These include special guided tours that will take attendees to all the heritage buildings in the area.

There will also be an art and food market plus on-site entertainment, among others. Confirmed performers include the likes of Gary Granada, Tres Marias (Cookie Chua, Bayang Barrios, Lolita Carbon), Plagpul, Ukulele Philippines Ensemble, Sanghabi, One Hit Combo, Estribo, Persephone, and more.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Power Mac Center is all set to present the fifth and culminating leg of its one-of-a-kind musical affair dubbed Sync Sessions. Revolutionizing live band performances through Apple technology, Sync Sessions rounds up some of the most talented artists in the local music scene to perform using only Mac and iOS devices.

After a month-long tour showcasing industry chart-toppers for free at select Power Mac Center locations, the Sync Sessions concert series will have its grand finale open to the public for free at 6pm on Saturday, July 5, at Power Mac Center SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

Headlining the weekend event is the alternative rock band Sandwich. Borne out of the founders’ mutual desire to collaborate together in one band, Sandwich was formed in 1998 and has since createditsdistinctive brand of music and received accolades for it. The group is comprised of Raimund Marasigan, lead vocals; Myrene Academia, bass guitar; Mong Alcaraz, lead guitar; Diego Castillo, rhythm guitar; and Mike Dizon, drums. Sandwich’s longevity and success in the industry has producedbig hitslike Butterfly Carnival, Sugod, Hairpin, Maybe, and Super Noypi.

“Power Mac Center is very excited to wrap up Sync Sessions with Sandwich, whose creative synergy as a band has helped the group remain fresh-sounding through the yearsand continue to be one of the most favorite bands of this generation.Please join us in this celebratory gig for all music lovers and fans to enjoy,” said Power Mac Center Marketing Director Joey Alvarez.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Among the many transportation modernization projects of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) is the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, which aims to deliver a fast, convenient, and cost-effective commuting option to residents of Cebu and Manila.

“BRT systems around the world have been successful in mobilizing masses of people in dense urban settings, getting them to their destinations reliably through fixed schedules, efficiently through segregated lanes and priority passage, comfortably and safely through modern, well-equipped buses, and affordably through relatively lower capital costs and maintenance expenditures,” said DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya.

“BRTs are game-changers. They are as effective as rail systems in terms of moving people around quickly and efficiently, but are much cheaper to build and are faster to develop. Since they will be granted as concessions, their riders will not be at the mercy of ‘colorum’ vehicles or transport strikes. They will be spared from unnecessary disruptions and unsafe traveling conditions,” Abaya noted.

The BRT concept began in Curitiba, Brazil in 1974, but the “BRT” name and the system’s popularity did not come until it was introduced in Bogota, Colombia in 2000. Currently, there are over two hundred (200) BRT systems either operating or being built worldwide.

Save the Camp John Hay Project, President Aquino

Wazzup Pilipinas!

If President Aquino wants to do something to save the Camp John Hay project the he must act quickly before it is too late. I am pretty sure the president himself spent some time vacationing in Camp John Hay so he must know how it feels like to spend a few days relaxing there.

However, the BCDA is not kind when it comes to dealing with the Camp John Hay Development Corporation as they managed to file a bunch of cases against them. Despite all that, the Camp John Hay Development Corporation has no plans of halting the Camp John Hay project because they paid a lot of money in rental to the BCDA and provided 2000 jobs to residents in Baguio City.

Baguio City residents are not happy with the way the BCDA are handling things as mayor Mauricio Domogan asked BCDA to submit for arbitration so this could be settled. That does not mean BCDA would do just that though. They are looking at a lot of loopholes and they could use those things against the CJHDevco.