Wazzup Pilipinas News and Events

Saturday, July 29, 2017

Cusi Creates Transition Panel to Manage PEMC, WESM

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Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi on Friday ordered the creation of a transition committee for the interim management of the Philippine Electricity Market Corporation (PEMC) and the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM).

Under the department order that Cusi issued, the committee is to be chaired by Atty. Oscar E. Ala which shall exercise the functions of the PEMC president until one is appointed by the PEMC board. In addition, the Transition Committee is tasked to assess PEMC’s existing structures, systems, and resources and propose a way forward for the WESM to meet the challenges ahead. The order gives the committee seven months fromAugust 1, 2017 to complete its tasks.

Cusi said the creation of the Transition Committee is in line with President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s thrust of ensuring the protection of the Filipino electricity consumers, who are affected by the operation of PEMC and the WESM.

Cusi said the PEMC shall continue to effectively govern the operations of WESM for the benefit of all electricity stakeholders. On the organizational level, Cusi assures the PEMC employees that the PEMC leadership shall continue to improve and advance their welfare as WESM operations continue to evolve.

The PEMC was incorporated in 2003 and was constituted as the autonomous group market operator to oversee market governance and perform the functions of the market operator in the WESM.

Aside from Oscar Escobar Ala as Chairman, the Transition Committee Members are Engr. Jose Mari T. Bigornia, Atty. Jose M. Layug, Jr., Atty. Francis C. Saturnino Juan and Mr. Rauf A. Tan.

The PEMC will be governed by a new Philippine Electricity Market Board composed of: Alfonso G. Cusi as Chairman with Ronald Dylan P. Concepcion, Victor Emmanuel B. Santos, Emmanuel V. Rubio, Neeraj Bhat, Deon James, Rolando M. Cagampan, Octavius M. Mendoza, Allan L. Laniba, Noel V. Aboboto, Jesus L. Arranza and Peter L. Wallace as Board Members.

Power Now Fully Restored In 3 Quake-Hit Visayas Provinces

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The Department of Energy reported today that power has been fully restored in the three provinces of Leyte, Samar and Bohol hit recently by a magnitude 6.5 earthquake.

Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi commended all those in the energy department and industry participants who contributed to attaining this achievement four days earlier than the 31 July deadline.

"I congratulate and thank the hardworking people, especially those on the ground, for attaining 100% restoration of power in Leyte, Samar and Bohol, " Cusi said.

"The task to build a stronger and more resilient energy system lies ahead. Our hosting of the Asian Cooperation Dialogue in Bohol next week will help us learn more and do more," Cusi added.

The System Operator, National Grid Corporation of the Philippines, reported to the DOE that the newly transferred 150Mva Transformer 2 at the Ormoc Substation was successfully energized at around 2140H on Wednesday (July 27) and is loading electricity today (July 28).

This means that another 135 MW can be delivered to Leyte, Samar and Bohol (LSB).

The total potential of 330 MW in the three islands to address its projected peak demand of 291 MW is broken down as follows: (1) 135 MW traversing the Ormoc Substation; (2) 40 MW from Tongonan Geothermal Power Plant; (3) around 20 MW from various embedded generation sources; and (4) an additional 135 MW through the Ormoc Substation. The projected peak demand for LSB is 291 MW is broken down as follows: 210 MW for Leyte and Samar and 81 MW for Bohol.

DOE to Host Asia Cooperation Dialogue in Bohol

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The Department of Energy (DOE) announced Friday (28 July) the maiden hosting of the Philippines of the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) to be held on 7-10 August 2017 in Panglao Island, Bohol.

Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi said, “The hosting of ACD gives greater emphasis on the evolving global developments concerning energy and the environment and the energy-water-food nexus.”

“These topics are the key areas of cooperation where Asian nations can consolidate and expand efforts to ensure a secure, affordable, sustainable and resilient energy supplies in the region,” Cusi emphasized.

Established in June 2002, the ACD is a gathering of Asian countries to promote interdependence among Asian members in all areas of cooperation, one of which is on energy.

This year’s ACD Conference will focus on energy security, sustainability and resiliency as well as energy's relation to water and food.

The conference aims to gather energy policy makers in the region to discuss latest developments in their respective countries, and encourage consultations in identifying new cooperation initiatives that may be implemented in the ACD region.

Specifically, the Conference aims to promote information exchange and the sharing of best practices on energy policies, plans and programs among ACD Member States.

It will also be an avenue to drive investments in the following priority areas: (1) Renewable Energy and Clean Energy; (2) Natural Gas as Transition Fuel; (3) Low Carbon Future Thru Clean Energy Technologies; (4) Emerging Role of Nuclear Energy; (5) Energy Connectivity and Market Integration; and (6) The Role of the Younger Generation on the Future of Energy Development.

Participating countries are expected to share information and experiences on building a resilient energy sector, especially among high-risk countries on the adverse effects of changing weather patterns and disasters.

The other objectives of the ACD, Cusi said, are to expand trade and financial markets within Asia, and ultimately transform the Asian continent into One Asian Community.

Fab Finds, Biggest Deals Await at the 2017 Great Singapore Sale!

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Shopping aficionados and fashionistas can score the most exclusive finds at the Great Singapore Sale (GSS), Asia’s biggest shopping extravaganza, as it continues until August 13. Presented by the Singapore Retailers Association (SRA) and Singapore Tourism Board (STB), it offers the best deals and bargains from the hottest brands, making every shopaholic’s dreams come true.

“Singapore is truly a shopper’s haven and once more, the Great Singapore Sale welcomes our visitors to experience the biggest shopping spree in Southeast Asia,” said Lael Loh, STB Area Director for Philippines.

Fill your shopping bags with the best finds

First things first, for shoppers heading into the GSS, remember that prices can drop to as low as 70% from the hundreds of participating brands such as Oakley, GoPro, LEVI’S, Dockers, ALDO, Pandora, Ralph Lauren Home, Lacoste, Quicksilver, Nike, Tempur, TISSOT, VANS, TOPMAN, TOPSHOP, Dorothy Perkins, and a whole lot more.

Indeed, stretching those Singapore dollars is what one can expect as a line-up of just about everything is up for grabs—even spa treatments, dining offerings, and accommodations from luxurious and quirky boutique hotels are available for that holistic lifestyle pampering experience.

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Filipino standout Joshua “The Passion” Pacio had a memorable trip to Macao a year ago when he competed at ONE Championship’s inaugural live event in the Chinese suburb known as “Oyster City.”

The 21-year-old native of Baguio City, Benguet competed on the undercard of ONE: HEROES OF THE WORLD, where he defeated gritty Thai grappler Kritsada Kongsrichai by way of first-round submission.

Proving that Team Lakay fighters are not isolated in the striking department, Pacio effortlessly took Kongsrichai down to the mat and fastened a rear-naked choke to force his Thai foe to tap at the 4:37 mark of the first round.

Pacio will be setting foot on Macao soil once again as he is set to compete on the undercard of ONE: KINGS & CONQUERORS, which takes place at the glamorous Cotai Arena of The Venetian Macao.

Now using the moniker “The Passion” due to his ardent desire to improve each day as a martial artist, Pacio is slated to test his mettle with Japanese newcomer Hayato Suzuki.

Pacio did not mince words about his excitement to strut his wares in Macao, which is also home to thousands of overseas Filipino workers.

“I love fighting in Macao. The venue is so awesome. It’s truly world-class. Furthermore, there are a lot of Filipinos living and working there. Whenever I compete there, it feels like I am fighting back home. The energy is palpable. I can’t wait to be back,” he said.

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Real estate marketplace MyProperty.ph compares housing loan interest rates of top-of-mind banks in the country

To further assist fellow Filipinos in their investment planning, real estate portal MyProperty.ph creates a list of prevailing interest rates for housing loans this 2017 of various commercial banks in the country.

As investing in a home is one of the biggest purchase decisions one can make in a lifetime, it is imperative to study first and foremost the ins and outs of your current financial standing. Once you know the budget that you can allot for your future property you can then choose from the wide array of properties available in the market and distinguish the right financing scheme that suits you best.

The key to planning ahead is to be armed with the right information. Apart from finding out the lowest interest rates, it is likewise essential to dissect and differentiate the components of the home loan program offered. For instance, HSBC offers a very low interest rate compared to other commercial banks in the Philippines. Unfortunately, the minimum loan amount to be able to avail the program must be Php2 million. Therefore, if you are eyeing a property that costs less than this, HSBC’s offering will not be applicable to you.

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AXN announced that international pop sensation Jay Park will join the judges’ table on the highly anticipated Asia’s Got Talent Season 2.

Jay, an award-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and savvy entrepreneur, CEO and founder of two successful record labels, will take the coveted hot seat alongside the show’s returning judges, the 16-time Grammy Award-winning music producer David Foster and internationally acclaimed singer and World Music Award winner Anggun.

The three judges, who arrived in Singapore today to start production of Asia’s Got Talent next week, will be tasked with judging hundreds of acts from 17 countries across the region.

“Asia's Got Talent may reach a lot of people, but mostly it unifies a lot of countries together and that's what I'm most excited to see - the people. I'm looking forward to being amazed, shocked, motivated and inspired,” said Jay who is no stranger to discovering and developing talent. “I’m excited to be a part of the show, and I’m looking forward to joining the incredible David and Anggun to discover the next generation of Asian stars.”

Commenting on his return to Asia’s Got Talent, the world-renowned producer and hit songwriter David Foster said, “Asia really impressed me in the first season. The talent was truly world-class. However, this season I set my sights even higher and I expect to find the next Asian international superstar. I’m also excited to team up with the gorgeous Anggun again and to work alongside Jay.”

Anggun, who recently completed over 30 sell-out concerts in France and Belgium and recently received a gold sales award for her latest French-speaking album in France added, “I may live in Paris, but my heart is in Asia. I love seeing emerging talent from this part of the world. I wish every act all the very best for a great performance, and I hope that Asia’s Got Talent can be the launching pad for their dreams to take flight.”

The record-breaking series, which set new ratings records for the English general entertainment genre during its run in 2015, will return to AXN in October. Over the course of 10 captivating episodes – comprising five judges’ auditions, three semi-finals, the finale and the results show – contestants will battle it out for the grand prize of USD100,000.

Virginia Lim, Senior Vice President and Head of Production, Content and Marketing, Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia, said, “We are thrilled with the judges’ table this season as each judge brings their own style, voice and skillset to the show. Jay has a massive fan base in Asia, so AXN viewers will be excited that he has been selected to join an already powerful judges’ table featuring David Foster and Anggun.

“While the first season of Asia’s Got Talent on AXN rocked the region as the number one show in primetime, the second season promises to up the ante and cement the show’s place as the biggest, most mesmerizing talent contest in the world.”

The series will be hosted by Singapore-based actor/ models Alan Wong and Justin Bratton, whose natural on stage chemistry and witty banter will inject a comedic overtone into the series.

Ganesh Rajaram, General Manager, EVP Sales Asia, FremantleMedia International said, “The first season of Asia’s Got Talent was one of the biggest productions in the world. The series unveiled a host of talent from across the region and fast became a fan favourite with AXN viewers. With Jay Park joining David and Anggun on our judging panel, season two is set to be even bigger and better.”

Asia’s Got Talent is supported by presenting sponsor Traveloka, the leading travel booking app for all flight and hotel needs; and sponsoring partner Great Eastern Life, the market leader in the conventional life insurance business and the largest life insurer in Malaysia by asset size.

Marina Bay Sands, Asia’s leading business, leisure and entertainment destination, is the official venue partner of Asia’s Got Talent.

@AsiasGotTalent / #AXNAsia / #AsiasGotTalent / #AsiasGotTalentAuditions

www.AXN-Asia.com/AsiasGotTalent

Trikini Rescheduled to August 19, 2017

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MegaWorld Lifestyle Malls, in partnership with GEO Events Management, shall be presenting a unique active lifestyle event in McKinley West Park. Originally slated for July 29th, 2017, the event has been rescheduled to August 19th, 2017 to better accommodate guests at a more favorable weather condition.

Trikini is an urban fitness party that will feature three basic elements – run, bike, and party- in a safe and exclusive venue where attendees can enjoy the outdoors right in the heart of the city. With a dress code of sports, active or beach wear, guests can participate in their activities of choice comfortably.

The event will have two zones: Active and Fest. The Active Zone allows festival goers to get their fitness fix with a friendly 5K run and 15K bike race. For attendees looking for a more relaxed experience, the Fest Zone offers dance workshops, oversized inflatables, and a main stage that will feature performances by high-profile acts such as SinoSiKat, Extrapolation, DJ Khai Lim, and Sanya Smith!

WHAT: Trikini 2017

WHY: To enjoy the fun of the outdoors right in the heart of the city.

WHEN: August 19th – 20th 2017

WHERE: McKinley West Park

TICKET PRICE: PHP 5,000.00. Can be purchased online at trikini.pouchnation.com, bank deposit and credit card payments accepted. Promo codes are available through MegaWorld Lifestyle Malls (Eastwood, Uptown, Bonifacio, and Venice Grand Canal), Colnago Manila, Secondwind, and Atheleema Makati.

PARTNERS’ TREAT: Follow @geoeventsasia in Facebook and Instagram for announcements on discounted ticket deals!

Filipino Standout Eric Kelly Sees Move to Lightweight as New Beginning

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Filipino mixed martial arts (MMA) veteran Eric “The Natural” Kelly has been competing as a featherweight since he started his prizefighting stint eight years ago in the flourishing Philippine combat scene.

After spending most of his career as a featherweight with 15 professional bouts, Kelly decided to venture into a new territory as he moves up in another weight class.

The 35-year-old native of Baguio City, Benguet makes his lightweight debut against Japanese MMA legend Kotetsu “No Face” Boku on the undercard of ONE: KINGS & CONQUERORS, which takes place at the glamorous Cotai Arena of The Venetian Macao in Macao, China.

Kelly sees his jump to ONE Championship’s 77.1-kilogram weight class as a new chapter in his illustrious run as a world-class MMA athlete.

“It’s a new beginning for me. It’s somehow a permanent move since this is my walking weight. We have to abide by the weigh-in rules of the company. I am comfortable with the weight,” he said.

“I am excited to be in this new journey. I hope everything will turn our great for me as a lightweight,” Kelly added.

Although Kelly’s last two outings as a featherweight competitor resulted to throbbing setbacks inside the ONE Championship cage, he looks to erase the painful memory by picking up a statement-making victory over Boku in his maiden assignment as a lightweight.

“It's been a year since the last time that I fought. I am looking forward to put on a great performance for my beloved country. I have been training hard and going through strategies. I hope to give my 110 percent inside the ONE Championship cage in Macao. I am coming to win,” he stated.

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In the information age, compliance to data privacy and data protection regulations are considered by organizations as a competitive advantage in their business operations. This was confirmed by contact center managers and data protection experts at the recent Data Privacy Asia conference organized by the Contact Center Association of the Philippines. (CCAP).

Contact center clients look for more than just capacity and capability of the workforce, they also look at the utilization of industry best practices in data and network security as well as international compliance with data protection and data privacy regulations. This was revealed by CCAP President Jojo Uligan. “Customer experience is crucial and as service providers this what we are focusing on. When customers are aware that their data is secure, this translates to more business for industry” Mr. Uligan added.

Among those present at the event were international experts in data privacy and protection as well as the Philippines’ Data Protection Authority, the National Privacy Commission (NPC).

Privacy Commissioner Raymund Enriquez Liboro revealed that companies complying with the Data Privacy Act (DPA) of 2012 have a competitive edge when in comes to Data Protection and Privacy. The DPA promotes international best practices in data protection comparable to data privacy frameworks such as the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and theAPEC Privacy Framework.

“With ASEAN integration coming up soon, companies in the Philippines need to implement their data protection and data privacy obligations not only to keep their existing clients, but also assure future growth.” Privacy Commissioner Liboro said.

Mr. Malcolm Crompton, former Privacy Commissioner of Australia was also at the event to explain why having a Privacy Management Plan is essential for organizations to ensure the longevity and competitiveness of their business. “With the successful implementation of Privacy Management Plans companies can expect; increased business, enhanced reputation, more satisfied clients and improved adaptability to change, The company’s greatest asset is data, organizations’ need to re-think the risks associated with data processing in order to manage them effectively” Mr. Crompton added.

Organizations that process personal information as part of their operations are required to register their data processing systems with the NPC on or before the 9 September 2017 deadline specified in the Data Privacy Act’s (R.A.10173) Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR). One of the first registration requirements of the NPC is the designation of the Data Protection Officer (DPO) who will be responsible for data protection and data privacy in the organization.