The H.E.A.R.T. of a Filipino Motivational Speaker

Wazzup Pilipinas!

There are hundreds, perhaps thousands, of motivational speakers all over the world. In the Philippines alone, there are seminars and workshops happening everywhere all year round – helping people improve their career, health, finances, relationships, business and even spiritual awareness.

If you have attended a few of these seminars yourself, it is very likely that at least one Filipino motivational speaker stands out from the rest. Do you have one or two favorite speakers? What do you like about them? What makes them remarkable or unforgettable?

Motivational speakers come in different shapes and forms. Some speakers are loud and cheerleader-y, infecting the audience with a rah-rah-rah attitude. Others are low-key and subtle, still others are funny as hell.

In my 15 years as a motivational speaker, I’ve had the chance to share the stage with different kinds of motivational speakers in the Philippines, and have observed what worked and what didn’t. Some of the speakers I’ve met have even come to me for training when they find out that I’m also a voice and speech coach. Having been exposed to the public speaking arena led me to the realization that there is no ONE RIGHT WAY to deliver a motivational talk.

In a single seminar, one speaker can be super serious and the next speaker can be extremely funny, and both of them could be equally remembered as great speakers by the audience. One technique can work very well for one speaker, and can be an epic fail for another. That’s why when I teach public speaking, I don’t focus so much on the “form” – stand like this, talk like that, hold the mic like this, etc. Instead I teach how to cultivate one’s PRESENCE onstage.

So what separates a Filipino motivational speaker from a GREAT one? Great motivational speakers speak with a H.E.A.R.T.

WWF Statement on First Anniversary of Landmark Papal Encyclical – Laudato Si

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The world is celebrating the one-year anniversary of Pope Francis’ groundbreaking encyclical on ecology, Laudato Si. Below are comments from David Nussbaum, Chairperson of WWF’s Global Climate and Energy Initiative, reflecting on this important encyclical:

“In its first year, Pope Francis’ Encyclical Laudato Si has played a huge role in connecting religions, countries, and people around the need for understanding and addressing together environmental and social problems.

The sub-title of the encyclical itself, calling for the "Care of Our Common Home", is a perfect summary of the powerful message for all of humanity. Broken into its component parts, we see the depth of meaning and thought applied to each word selected by Pope Francis: “Care” as the need for empathetic relationships and mutual assistance among people, with other living beings and with nature; "our" and "common" as an invitation to consider the common good and a sense of community; the "home", to emphasize that the Earth is the place that welcomes us, which is linked to our very existence.

Pope Francis’ letter arrived in a crucial year, encouraging individuals and countries to meet on the importance of sustainable development and to address climate challenge. Having helped build this common ground, at a time in which emergencies and competition create strains between countries and within countries, the encyclical has had a great impact in inspiring nations to come together to achieve two important global agreements.

Globe Offers New Generation Chromecast for Php99 a Month

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Improved casting and more app compatibility for a full wireless entertainment experience

With the promise for a connected life for the home, Globe in collaboration with Google now offers the new generation Chromecast. Broadband subscribers can now avail the new and improved Chromecast for an affordable add-on of only Php99 per month.

Customers today are no longer just tied in using their smartphones and PC’s at home for personal consumption, they also demand better content to share and experience on a bigger screen. The new Chromecast offers the solution to “cast” content from their personal device such as movies, shows, music, games to a bigger screen TV using their HDMI connection.

The new Chromecast is now equipped with better connectivity with the latest 802.11ac dual band Wi-Fi and three antenna structure for a more faster, stable and less buffering streaming using the latest mobile devices. Aside from being a better hardware, the new Chromecast is also fully compatible to cast with the latest entertainment apps including Globe exclusive digital content partners such as HOOQ, NBA and Spotify.

“With our continuous partnership with Google, we stay true in providing new and meaningful innovations to fully maximize the digital lifestyle of our customers. The latest installment in this is the new Chromecast, now with better features and compatibility to our content partners such as Spotify, HOOQ, NBA to a more immersive casting experience. ” says – Senior Vice President for Broadband Business, Martha Sazon.

Discovery Southeast Asia is now on Snapchat!

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It’s the time of the year again where we’re all glued in front of our TV screens to watch the most-feared underwater creature – sharks. But let’s not leave it. Let’s give them a chance and let’s get to know about them through Discovery Channel’s Shark Week from June 27 to July 1.

The annual, week-long programming block is here for another exciting year and Discovery Channel made it even more exciting by joining image messaging and multimedia mobile application Snap Chat.

Stay tuned and stay on the loop with the latest updates on Shark Week by following and sharing your snaps with @discoverysea. Don’t forget to include the hashtag #SharkWeekSEA across your social media platforms!

What to Visit in Bangkok

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Your trip to Thailand would be incomplete without visiting its capital city Bangkok. Every tourist will find something to their taste here since this metropolis harmoniously combines the spirit of East and West, ancient and modern, traditional and up-to-date. Bangkok is also a gateway to other Thai cities so even if it’s not your final destination in Thailand, you should definitely spend at least several hours here and see its major attractions. You can always find the cheapest business-class tickets to Bangkok via cheapfirstclass.com.

Grand PalaceThe Grand Palace is a number-one attraction in Bangkok and visiting it is a must. Built in 1782, it served as a royal residence for centuries. Although the present king doesn’t reside here, the building is still used for official ceremonies. The palace complex is a true masterpiece: after seeing it, you’ll understand why Bangkok is called the City of Angels (Krung Thep).

Temple of the Emerald Buddha

There are about 400 Buddhist temples in Bangkok but the most important and most visited one is the Temple of the Emerald (or Jade) Buddha. It’s situated right on the territory of the Grand Palace so you’ll have an opportunity to see two main attractions at once. The temple is famous for its highly revered statue of Emerald Buddha carved from a block of jade. The inside walls of the temple’s compound are covered with numerous mural paintings depicting the scenes from the famous epic "Ramayana".

Temple of Dawn

Situated on the bank of the Chao Phraya River, this temple encrusted with colorful porcelain stands majestically over the water. Despite its name, it’s especially beautiful at the sunset. The Temple of Dawn is one of the most photographed symbols of Thailand. Its central pagoda (a many-tiered tower), which has the height of a 20-storey building, is the highest in the country. If you climb up the stairs to the balcony, you’ll be awarded a stunning and breathtaking view of the river and the surroundings.

Bangkok National Museum

If you’re interested in Thai art and history, then the Bangkok National Museum will be a perfect place to gain insight into or at least get acquainted with it. Being the largest museum in Southeast Asia, it houses one of the best and richest collections of art and artifacts. Due to its scale, be ready to spend here several hours so plan your visit accordingly.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Those who can’t imagine their trip without shopping should definitely visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market. Although Bangkok is full of shopping malls and markets, none of them can be compared to the Chatuchak Weekend Market. With 15,000 booths divided into 27 sections, this is one of the largest markets in the world. You can find virtually everything here and buy it at a local (not tourist) price.

Lumpini Park

This is the largest public park in the city where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of the city center and get a reviving breath of fresh air. There are a lot of things to see and do here. You can go for a boat ride on the artificial lake or just stroll around the park watching local people.

Miss Manila 2016 Visits Manila City Hall

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On June 16, 2016, the candidates of Miss Manila 2016 visited Manila City Hall as part of the itinerary of the beauty pageant scheduled to hold its grand coronation night on June 24, 2016 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC). 

Manila President-Mayor Erap Estrada and Viva's Boss Vic Del Rosario was present during the courtesy visit.

Check out the lovely 33 Manileña candidates in their simple yet stunning casual wear. 

On its third consecutive year the search is not only looking for a woman of exquisiteness but also of shows empowerment, personifies social awareness and embodies a true Manilena with grace, passion and optimism.

Miss Manila 2016 shall be the Goodwill Ambassador of the City of Manila and will represent the city in various national and international events. She will participate in activities that promote the City of Manila and its numerous landmarks and attractions. She shall endeavor to become an effective advocate the City's goals and projects. She will also help in the City's campaign to raise the public's awareness in social issues and concerns, especially those that affect the City of Manila. She will act as a visible role model for all women.

Below are the lovely candidates of Miss Manila 2016:

Fellowship on Sustainable Energy Solutions with WWF and PEF

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Calling all idea creators and energy entrepreneurs!

Apply now for the Impact Hub  Fellowship on Sustainable Energy Solutions with Peace and Equity Foundation and World Wide Fund for Nature and get the chance to win more than ₱ 2.5 million worth of  fellowship prizes, which includes ₱ 1.5 million seed funding, skill development trainings,  mentorship, access to stimulating workspaces and valuable networks.  

Held at the Impact Hub office at Green Sun in Pasong Tamo extension , Makati city, the press conference and launch of Impact Hub Fellowship on Sustainable Energy Solutions with PEF and WWF on Thursday, June 16, 2016.

At the press conference, PEF, WWF and Impact Hub Manila gave us indepth information about this exciting incubation program. We learned more about the motivation and potential of start-ups in that sector and explain you the global success story of Impact Hub and the Fellowship.

Manila Pavilion’s Father’s Day Treats

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Father’s Day comes but once a year. On Sunday, June 19, make the most of this wondrous occasion by matching Dad’s big appetite with the liberty to choose from our eat-all-you-can lunch for only Php1,200 nett at our interactive lifestyle restaurant, Seasons. To make this lip-smacking fare even more invigorating, Super dads with group of four or more will receive special gifts from our sponsors Metro Dental, Tony & Jackey and Asian Brewery.

At Patisserie, Manila Pavilion’s French-style pastry shop, present Dad with our heavenly cake of the month Chocolate Entremet, layered of milk chocolate sponge and strudel, passion fruit parfait, mint caramel, milk chocolate mousse and glazed that is perfect with its gooeyness will surely win Dad’s sweet tooth.

Furthermore, a red-carpet treat is laid out for all Dads with Manila Pavilion’s flavorful Roasted Chicken Quesadillas.

Relish in the goodness of our drink of the month, Manhattan & Whiskey sour – a perfect match for our Chicken Satay with Peanut sauce.

For the ultimate present for dad, book in one of our appointed rooms for an extra special of Php3,600 nett for a Deluxe room inclusive of buffet breakfast for two at Seasons Cafe, access to swimming pool and gym, and free use of Wi-fi.

For inquiries and reservations visit the Manila Pavilion Hotel at United Nations Avenue corner Maria Orosa Street in Manila. Log on to www.waterfronthotels.com.ph or call 5261212, for inquiries and reservations; Like or Follow @WaterfrontMNL for regular updates.

Brand Ambassador 2016 Grand Winners

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I am surprised that beauty pageant competitions are still ongoing even though the rainy season is almost upon us. There seems to be no shortage of beauties at every pageant. The ladies of these events keep turning out to be a lot more beautiful as compared to the previous years. 

This could mean a lot of ladies are bow being conscious of their physical appearances and even now equipped with the talent, wit and intelligence that would easily impress the panel of judges.

Congratulations to the winners of Brand Ambassador 2016 competition held at Fisher Mall in Quezon City.

Grand Winners: Renzbert Tiu & Joyce Anne Perez Elamparo
Prestige Models Management could very well be proud of their discoveries.

Hoping these young ladies will soon conquer the modeling industry with their fabulous presence.

Partner Photographer: Edmund Chua

Burger King 4-Cheesiest Messiest Face-Off with Sam YG and Joyce Pring

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Last June 17, 2016, Burger King branch in Connecticut, Greenhills just held it’s cheesiest, messiest event yet. I’m talking about the 4-Cheesiest Messiest Face-Off between the two fellow Magic 89.9 radio jocks, host, tv personalities (and possible couple?), Sam YG and Joyce Pring. I should also mention that this event also serves as Burger King’s way of welcoming Joyce as their newest Ambassador.

The whole face-off has this boxing themed aesthetic to it, complete with the boxing ring, gorgeous round girls, and as well as our two stars wearing boxing gear.

Like any other boxing event, the show started with an “undercard” event. In the undercard, Burger King has invited the bloggers that were present to participate. It’s basically a burger eating contest with a twist. The participants must eat the burger within 2 minutes. Instead of using your hands however, the participant must eat the whole thing using chopsticks. The first one to finish the whole burger within the time limit wins. Being the bibo kid that I am, I also joined the contest and was also the one to win the contest.

After that very stuffed contest, the program then proceeded to the main event which is Team Joyce and Team Sam’s Cheesiest Face-Off. One by One, they immediately went to the ring looking very prepared and confident for this upcoming battle.

After they both entered the ring, the mechanics were then explained. Just like the name of the featured burger, there will be 4 events that Joyce and Sam will participate. The person with the most points wins. In the event that there will be a tie, there will  be a tie breaker match.

Round 1 : Stretch - O - War

In Stretch - O - War, both Sam and Joyce are covered with a stretchable “cheese” cloth. There are burgers stationed at both sides. They will then engage in a tug of war and whoever gets to eat the burger first wins.

Winner : Sam

Round 2 : Sticky Mess

In this round, they will both wear velcro jackets and will dive into an inflatable pool full of balloons and “cheese” post-its. They will then dive into the inflatable and try to get as many cheese post-its to stick onto their jacket. The person with the most post-its wins.

Winner : Joyce

Round 3: Drip Trip

In this round, they will both wear hard hats with a huge needle on top. Above them are balloons. The goal of this game is for them to pop the balloon which contains a cheese sauce. The first person to pop the said balloon wins this round.

Winner : Sam

Round 4: Hole Hunt

For the final round, a huge cheese wall was presented in front of them with holes in it. Inside the holes are food items that they must pull out. The goal is to pull out 4 burgers that were hidden inside these holes. The first person to find all 4 burgers win

Winner : Joyce

Tiebreaker: 4 Cheese Whopper Eating Contest

Due to the competitiveness of the two contestants, they reached the tiebreaker round. It’s a simple burger eating contest. The first person to finish the 4 Cheese Whopper wins the contest.

Winner : Joyce

And just like that, Joyce wins the whole Face-Off! Congratulations to her for winning and welcome again for being the newest ambassador of Burger King. The audience also got to try out the 4 Cheese Whopper towards the end of the event. I really had fun in the whole face-off and had lots of laughs as well thanks to Sam and Joyce being energetic, quirky and most of all, being cheesy. For those who wants to try out the 4 Cheese Whopper, it’s available on all Burger King Outlets Nationwide.

Contributed by Lloyd Kevin Urbino