Bibiano Fernandes Outlasts Martin Nguyen to Retain ONE Bantamweight World Championship

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The largest global sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), held a historic evening in Bangkok as the capacity crowd at the Impact Arena witnessed an amazing display of heart-pounding martial arts action. ONE: IRON WILL sent shockwaves of excitement throughout the state-of-the-art stadium as the card featured a series of compelling bouts, punctuated by an unforgettable championship clash. In the main event, Bibiano “The Flash” Fernandes of Brazil remained the undisputed king of ONE Championship’s bantamweight division, defeating two-division world champion Martin “The Situ-Asian” Nguyen of Australia.

Visit the official ONE: IRON WILL photo gallery by clicking: http://bit.ly/onephotos

In a gruelling five-round title tiff, reigning ONE Bantamweight World Champion Bibiano “The Flash” Fernandes of Brazil turned in a gutsy performance, overcoming a spirited effort from ONE Featherweight & Lightweight World Champion Martin “The Situ-Asian” Nguyen of Sydney, Australia to win via razor-thin split decision. The action was electric all throughout the bout, with both men having their moments. Although Nguyen landed the harder, more telling blows, Fernandes was the busier ma and performed slightly better overall with his takedowns and accurate combinations. In the final frame, Fernandes pulled away just slightly, outworking Nguyen over the last five minutes of the contest. In the end, the Brazilian did just enough to retain his title in front of a packed Impact Arena crowd. The victory cemented Fernandes’ claim as the best in the world at bantamweight, earning him a record eight title defenses to remain the most dominant ONE world champion in history.

Bibiano Fernandes, ONE Bantamweight World Champion, stated: “I said I would win, and I did. I really live for these challenges. I’m the champion, and I’m here to stay. I’m the best bantamweight in the world. I’ve proven it many times. Bangkok, Thailand -- thank you for having me.”

In the co-main event of the evening, Jeremy “The Jaguar” Miado of the Philippines overcame insurmountable odds, knocking out former world champion Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke in the first round. In a wild exchange of punches, Miado clipped Amnuaysirichoke with a thunderous right cross, sending the Thai hometown hero crashing to the canvas as the referee waved off the contest immediately.

Shannon “OneShin” Wiratchai of Thailand authored one of the most dominant performances of the night, reinserting his name into the winner’s column with a quick knockout victory over Singapore-based Indian martial artist Rahul Raju. Wiratchai only needed 21 seconds to shut the lights out on Raju, landing a hard right hook to clinch the scintillating knockout. With his impressive conquest of Raju, Wiratchai earned the GoDaddy Knockout of the Night.

In a clash of talented female atomweights, Angelie Sabanal of the Philippines captured a hard-earned victory, routing Thai rising star Rika Ishige via unanimous decision in her ONE Championship debut. Sabanal and Ishige kept the action focused primarily at the center of the ONE Championship cage for the majority of the bout. The Filipina newcomer showcased her pinpoint accurate striking early on, peppering Ishige with stinging kicks and stiff punches. Although Ishige boldly traded strikes with the Filipina kickboxer from bell to bell, the latter pulled away in the final round, landing the more telling blows. In the end, Sabanal earned the undivided nod from the three judges at cageside.

23-year-old Saygid Guseyn Arslanaliev reignited his meteoric rise through the ranks, defeating seasoned Japanese veteran Tetsuya Yamada by submission. Both men started out aggressively, but it was Arslanaliev who showed a more capable set of both striking and grappling skills throughout the three-round lightweight match. As Yamada avoided trading strikes in the stand-up, Arslanaliev spun a web of crafty grappling on the ground to overwhelm the Japanese veteran. Driven to score a finish, Arslanaliev was able to get the submission in the third round, making Yamada tap from a wrenching belly-down armbar.

Pakistani martial artist Waqar Umar made an astounding statement in his return to the ONE Championship cage after nearly two years of absence, submitting Chinese prospect Zhao Zhi Kang in the first round of their featherweight clash. With a game plan to take matters to the ground, Umar got the job done by fastening a rear-naked choke to force the tap from Zhao.

American submission wizard Garry “The Lion Killer” Tonon impressed in his highly-anticipated ONE Championship debut, toppling Filipino lightweight Richard Corminal in his maiden assignment wearing four-ounce gloves on the premier martial arts stage. The Brazilian jiu-jitsu superstar put forth a dominant striking performance, unveiling a new dimension to his evolving skill set by putting together dynamic combinations. In an offensive clinic against his Filipino counterpart, Tonon overwhelmed Corminal with punishing strikes from the get-go, blasting his opponent with rocking right hands and cracking kicks. In the second round, Tonon took matters to the ground and quickly got mount, finishing Corminal with a pair of elbows.

Kritsada “Dream Man” Kongsrichai made quick work of the Philippines’ Robin Catalan to continue his winning ways inside the ONE Championship cage. Opening up the contest by taking the action right to Catalan, Kongsrichai pounced on his Filipino opponent with a series of powerful strikes, including solid knees from the clinch. As he pushed Catalan constantly back up against the cage, Kongsrichai wrapped his arms around his foe’s midsection and took him for a ride with a belly-to-back suplex. Catalan was deemed unable to continue when he landed on the mat, forcing the referee to wave it off and declare Kongsrichai as the victor by way of stoppage.

Multiple-time kickboxing world champion Alain “The Panther” Ngalani placed himself back on the winning track by edging out promotional newcomer Ariunbold Tur-Ochir of Mongolia via split decision. Both men gave fans a spirited effort over three rounds, which featured a healthy stream of action from both corners. After a gruelling contest, it was Ngalani who walked out with his hand raised in triumph.

Gilberto Galvao of Brazil spoiled the much-awaited return of Jake Butler to competition, defeating the decorated American wrestler by technical knockout in the second round. Galvao finished the job in the opening sequence of the contest’s second frame, checking a low kick from Butler with a hard knee. As Butler dropped to the canvas, he held onto his leg and hit the ground writhing in pain, the referee stepped in and called a halt to the bout, awarding the victory to Galvao.

A three-round bantamweight encounter served as the curtain-raiser for ONE: IRON WILL as “The Terminator” Sunoto battled it out with Malaysian standout Hisyam Samsudin. Leaning on his impeccable grappling, Sunoto burned out his opponent, consistently bringing Samsudin to the canvas and controlling the action with crisp ground strikes. With a dominant top game, Sunoto notched his second consecutive victory in 2018, defeating Samsudin as all three judges saw the bout in favor of the Indonesian to win by unanimous decision.



Official results for ONE: IRON WILL

ONE Bantamweight World Championship bout: Bibiano Fernandes defeats Martin Nguyen by Split Decision (SD) after 3 rounds

Strawweight bout: Jeremy Miado defeats Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke by Knockout (KO) at 1:29 minutes of round 1

Lightweight bout: Shannon Wiratchai defeats Rahul Raju by Knockout (KO) at 0:21 minutes of round 1

Women’s atomweight bout: Angelie Sabanal defeats Rika Ishige by Unanimous Decision (UD)

Lightweight bout: Saygid Guseyn Arslanaliev defeats Tetsuya Yamada by Submission (Armbar) at 2:51 minutes of round 3

Featherweight bout: Waqar Umar defeats Zhao Zhi Kang by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) at 4:21 minutes of round 1

Lightweight bout: Garry Tonon defeats Richard Corminal by TKO (Strikes) at 3:40 minutes of round 2

Strawweight bout: Kritsada Kongsrichai defeats Robin Catalan by TKO (Slam) at 1:40 minutes of round 1

Light Heavyweight bout: Alain Ngalani defeats Ariunbold Tur-Ochir by Split Decision (SD) after 3 rounds

Middleweight bout: Gilberto Galvao defeats Jake Butler by TKO (Strikes) at 0:07 minutes of round 2

Bantamweight bout: Sunoto defeats Hisyam Samsudin by Unanimous Decision (UD) after 3 rounds




In case you missed the action log on to www.onefc.com/livestream for the full replay of the fights at only US $9.99.




For more updates on ONE Championship, please visit www.onefc.com, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @ONEChampionship, and like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ONEChampionship.

Thai Martial Arts Superstars Grace Open Workout for ONE: Iron Will

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The largest global sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), held an open workout for competitors of ONE: IRON WILL at Bangkok Fight Lab in Bangkok, Thailand on Tuesday, 20 March. The workout featured Thailand’s celebrated martial arts superstars such as Shannon Wiratchai, Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke, Rika Ishige and Kritsada Kongsrichai who showcased their martial arts techniques in front of fans and media.

Ticket information for ONE: IRON WILL is available at www.onefc.com

Shannon Wiratchai, ONE Athlete, stated: “Competing in front of my hometown fans is always a great pleasure. However, in my last bout in Bangkok, I wasn’t able to give my countrymen a sweet victory. I have been working very hard to get back on the winning track. I will showcase my best skills in this bout and take home the win for Thailand. Bangkok, be ready. I am bringing the action right to you.”

Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke, ONE Athlete, stated: “I believe the losses that I have suffered in my career have taught me a lot. I see those setbacks as an advantage, rather than just a blemish on my record. This match means a lot to me. I want to prove that I deserve to be competing on this international stage. I want to show to my countrymen that we also excel in martial arts, and to inspire more people to pursue their respective dreams.”

Rika Ishige, ONE Athlete, stated: “Martial arts in Thailand has really taken off, and I am proud to be a part of its growth. I have progressed a lot so far in my young career. The possibilities are endless for me, and I will continue to work hard to make my family and my fans proud. This is an awesome opportunity to showcase my skills on 24 March, so I will not take my opponent lightly.”

Kritsada Kongsrichai, ONE Athlete, stated: “It is an honor for me to represent my country. I will do my best to make my people proud. Since I joined ONE Championship, I have learned so much that has helped me throughout my career. I feel that I am ready to take the next step. My opponent is not easy, and it is going to be tough to face my fellow countryman, but I am prepared to do what it takes to win.”

Shannon “OneShin” Wiratchai of Thailand is one of the most thrilling offensive innovators in ONE Championship. The creator of the OneShin Striking System, Wiratchai developed his own style which incorporates various elements from Muay Thai, boxing, wrestling, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Training out of Tiger Muay Thai and Bangkok Fight Lab, Wiratchai emerges as Thailand’s biggest and most exciting martial arts star. After falling short against Russian lightweight Rasul Yakhyaev last December, Wiratchai seeks to re-enter the winner’s circle as he faces Singapore-based Indian martial artist Rahul Raju at ONE: IRON WILL.

Former ONE Strawweight World Champion Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke is a three-time Lumpinee Stadium Muay Thai world champion who has an 8-3 professional record as a martial artist. He is known as a technical striker with quick hands and lightning feet, employing some of the most unique and creative offensive combinations. As a martial artist with over 25 years of competitive experience, Dejdamrong is a seasoned veteran. Dejdamrong aims to redeem himself in front of his countrymen as he is slated to lock horns with Jeremy Miado of the Philippines.

Rika “Tinydoll” Ishige is a 28-year-old female atomweight from Thailand who trains out of Tiger Muay Thai and Bangkok Fight Lab. She is of mixed Japanese and Thai heritage, beginning her martial arts training at age 9 with aikido and taekwondo. Heavily influenced by her late father who trained in judo, Ishige went on to hone her skills as a martial artist, and turned professional in 2017. All of Ishige’s victories have ended via impressive finish, showcasing her high-level grappling skills. In her last cage outing, she scored a second-round submission win over Rome Trinidad. Ishige looks to continue her winning ways when she takes on Filipino newcomer Angelie Sabnal.

Strawweight contender Kritsada “Dream Man” Kongsrichai of Thailand is a martial artist and one of the most promising young athletes in ONE Championship. He made his promotional debut in ONE’s first ever show in Bangkok in 2016, stopping opponent Kev Hemmorlor via first-round technical knockout. In his last bout, Kongsrichai made quick work of Rabin Catalan, finishing his Filipino opponent via first-round technical knockout. Kongsrichai is now set to return to the ONE Championship cage to give another spectacular performance, this time against Rabin’s brother Robin Catalan.

For more updates on ONE Championship, please visit www.onefc.com, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @ONEChampionship, and like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ONEChampionship.

WATCH: A 19-Year Old Student Builds a Power Bank That Can Power Appliances On-The-Go

Wazzup Pilipinas!

We rely heavily on our gadgets these days. Almost everyone has a power bank for those times when you don’t have access to a power source to charge your phone.

What if your power bank was supersized that it can actually power home appliances? Imagine going on a summer vacation and be able to charge your phone through many cycles without running out of juice.

In case you missed it, Angelo Casimiro, an Electronics and Communications Engineering student and the person behind the YouTube channel TechBuilder, created a DIY power bank that’s powerful enough to run appliances such as TVs, lamps, and electric fans. What’s even better is that it can also be configured for charging via solar panel.

A tinkerer since he was a child, Angelo’s been making inventions and sharing tutorials on how to make them in his YouTube channel. He made global headlines in 2016 when he made a working life-size BB-8 droid from household materials.

Together with leading global technology brand Lenovo, Angelo shared the full tutorial on his channel. Watch it here: https://youtu.be/Kq76PfvzETg.

Made from three USB powerbanks, a DC-to-AC converter, rectifier diodes, two 3-Cell Balanced Lithium Ion Charger modules, wood, contact cement, and tape, Angelo’s DIY power bank is stored with enough power to support various home appliances to even doubling the battery life of his Lenovo Legion Y520, which is a huge feat since gaming laptops consume so much power.

The AC outlet power bank is Angelo’s first invention in partnership with Lenovo.

Pool Chemistry 101: Keep Your Water Safe And Clean

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Having fun in the water is a great way to spend your time in the hot weather. It’s a form of exercise as well as a fun time with the family. Even in the Philippines, where natural beaches are plentiful, owning your own pool can ensure you have private access to the water anytime you want. However, owning a pool is also a lot of hard work. To keep your pool safe and clean for you and your family, you need to ensure proper water chemistry. There are three chemical factors that every pool owner needs to monitor in order to maintain proper pool chemistry. These factors are pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness.

pH Level and Acidity

pH level is a measure of acidity, and to maintain safe pool chemistry, pools should be between 7.4 and 7.6. Higher levels can cause scaling in your plumbing, while lower levels cause eroding on any metal, as well as etching into the side of your pool. Adding sodium bicarbonate or baking soda will raise pH while sodium bisulfate or muriatic acid will lower levels. pH can also fluctuate due to outside factors, like rain or debris.

Alkalinity and resisting pH level changes

Alkalinity works hand in hand with pH and is the water’s capacity to resist changes in pH that would make the water more acidic. Alkalinity at 100 to 150 ppm will ultimately prevent your pH level from being altered. It is raised and lowered in the same way as pH, with baking soda and muriatic acid.

Calcium hardness for good water consistency

Lastly, Calcium hardness keeps your pool clean and its surface a good consistency. Your pool’s calcium hardness should be set at 150 to 400 ppm. If it’s any softer, the water will become slimy and corrode the pool’s surface. On the other hand, if it’s any higher, it will cause cloudy water that leaves precipitants in plumbing. In order to raise levels, you should use calcium chloride and if you need to lower the levels, use muriatic acid.

Other chemical factors

Outside of the chemical factors, several other chemicals are needed to sanitize your pool and keep unwanted bacteria and algae out. Algae are safe for humans, but can cause other problems with pool chemistry, and may attract harmful bacteria. The most common chemical is chlorine, but Biguanide, Bromine, minerals, and ozone are suitable alternatives to avoid the chlorine smell, or if you don’t like chlorine. In addition to regular sanitation, shocking your pool involves killing bacteria that your regular amount of chlorine misses. This may involve using a larger amount of chlorine, or oxidizing your pool. Good water filtration and circulation can also safeguard a pool of algae and bacteria, as well as make pool cleans ups easier through flocculation, or clumping debris together.

Owning a pool can give you the proper exercise and entertainment you deserve during the hot seasons. However, you need to make sure your pool chemistry is properly taken care of using the right pool test kit.

Biggest Audience Turnout Makes Binibining Pilipinas History

Wazzup Pilipinas!

A huge crowd of over 10,000 high-energy fans gave Binibining Pilipinas its biggest audience turnout in its long, illustrious history when it held this year’s much-anticipated Grand Coronation Night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum last March 18, 2018.

Dubbed as the Most Beautiful Night in the Philippines, the country’s premier beauty pageant drew a massive audience in support of their favorite candidates that they hope would represent the country in international competitions. The excitement surrounding this batch of candidates was at its highest, and this led to the biggest number of ticket sales for the coronation night to date.

With a bigger stage comprised of multiple stairs and landings, and dressed with LED monitors and lighted acrylic trimmings, it was one of the most striking presentations of the prestigious pageant, befitting the most beautiful women in the country. The Big Dome was filled with hordes of fans with lighted signs and letters spelling out their chosen candidates’ names; some even came with whistles and other paraphernalia to cheer their favorites on.

It was a night of frontrunner triumphs and interesting revelations when the judges finally announced the new Queens. The appreciative audience cheered for 2nd Runner-up Samantha Bernardo and 1st Runner-up Vickie Rushton; they made a lot of noise when the new queens were called: Karen Gallman was named this year’s Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental; Michele Gumabao, Binibining Pilipinas Globe; Eva Patalinjug, Binibining Pilipinas Grand International; Jehza Mae Huelar, Binibining Pilipinas Supranational; and Ahtisa Manalo, Binibining Pilipinas International.

But the loudest cheers erupted when favorite Catriona Gray was named this year’s Miss Philippines Universe. The Fil-Australian beauty who represents Albay had described joining this year’s competition as nerve-wracking. Her vocal and very passionate fans, collectively known as Catrionians, feel she is ripe to bring home a fourth Miss Universe title after Pia Wurtzbach.

“The Binibini fans are wonderful,” say Mrs. Stella Marquez Araneta, Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc. chair. “They give so much love to the ladies; their support really boosts the candidates’ confidence, and sees them thru the trying periods in this competition. We will not be able to keep doing this without them.”

The new Queens are now busy doing media interviews and other Binibini-related appearances. Catch more of them on the official Binibining Pilipinas Facebook page (@realbbpilipinas) and the official website. For pageant fanatics, the Binibining Pilipinas 2018 souvenir magazine is also being sold at the Snaxx counter of Gateway Cineplex, 4th level, Gateway Mall.

Nadine Lustre and Friends for #ChooseCurvalicious by Whisper

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Today’s women are a force to be reckoned with. Unfazed by nothing and empowered to do more, they are unabashedly beautiful and confident wherever they go.

However, it is very rare that fat and ugly women are chosen for top positions whether it be for any field. From a recent beauty pageant grand coronation, one of the judges at the Q&A portion asked why is it that the pageant highlights a search for inner beauty but requires only beautiful women to successfully pass as candidates. This is because we still prioritize physical beauty, and pick out the better one out of the best choices. After all, it is still a "beauty" pageant, thus the intellect, talent, etc, are just bonuses.

Woman empowerment movements have been around for ages, but they still pose a questionable effect that coukd be damaging rather than empowering.

Every woman empowerment movement should  never sound or look like they are competing with men. Everyone should realize that gender should never be a preference or hindrance towards a goal.

But please do remember that if we want equality, we should equally work hard for it, and never use femininity to take advantage of situations.

Everyone must also get the necessary experience, skills and attitude appropriate for the job....and not get special privilege because you do pa-tweetums, landi and smiley echos to your boss to attain something. If we want equality, kanya-kanya tayong buhat ng bigat natin. Kanya-kanya tayong akyat ng hagdan. Huwag idaan sa female only elevator. Lol!

On March 20 at 5PM, Nadine Lustre took the stage as Whisper launched the Whisper Curvalicious Movement at Valkyrie Night Club, The Palace, BGC and performed the latest Whisper anthem.

We joined in celebrating the new Whisper woman, fearless, fierce, and playfully bold - Nadine Lustre, together with Two of Nadine’s best girl friends, Kiana Valenciano and Lauren Reid. You can be Fearless! Just like them, and #ChooseCurvalicious with New soft cottony Whisper!

Say yes to Curvalicious!!!

The party ain’t complete without Nadine, together with two of G-Force’s talented dancers, performed on stage her new Whisper Curvalicious song. We will upload the video of the song soon at our social media pages.

In the real world, we should be helping each other, becoming the strength for each others weaknesses, and stop proving that the male or female species can be equally better. It's already 2018. Women have proven their worth so many times already. There should be no more reason why they keep shoving it down our throats. It is so sad to find out some women are still looked upon as the weaker gender because some of these women still expect to be given special privilege like being seated at crowded public transportation vehicles. If we don't want to stand, never enter a Standing-Room Only vehicles like the bus or MRT/LRT trains.

What lacks at the event is the emphasis that not only good looking or #curvalicious women should take the spotlight. Lustre, Valenciano and Reid are all "sexy" which could somehow motivate women to exercise, watch their diet, keep away from vices, in order to look similar. But for those that are not so lucky to have fit and fab genes, no time to exercise or go to gyms, can't afford the organic or the calorie-measured diets, the special pills or supplements, the visits to Calayan or Belo, or an agreeable metabolism, it's hard to get a body like those of these Whisper Curvalicious movement endorsers.

But I am not really against any movement that seeks better opportunities for everyone. It is everyone's dream to be able to pursue anything they desire and getting a fighting chance regardless of gender.

Again, choose Curvalicious because it supports the ultimate quest to get all women the same respect and appreciation as men. 

Kids Can Explore the Most Creative Playgrounds of Technology this Summer with PMC Summer Workshops 2018

Wazzup Pilipinas!

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Summer is just around the corner and no wonder most parents are on the lookout for exciting activities for their kids. For a fun yet different kind of playground to explore this year, leave it to the premier Apple partner Power Mac Center (PMC).

In its latest series of summer workshops, courses were thoroughly selected and modules creatively crafted to meet the current interests of young digital enthusiasts. Kids may choose from the following classes, each with intensive yet enjoyable 5-day sessions:

a.    Game Development

b.    Digital Arts

c.    3D Modelling and Animation

d.    Robotics

Held in Power Mac Center training rooms at Greenbelt 3, TriNoma, and Festival Alabang, the programs are open to all kids from 8 to 15 years old. Classes are divided into two batches — kids and teens, and modules are modified accordingly to match the depth of interest of each attendee.

With the change in the academic calendar, Power Mac Center decided to extend the duration of the program to 4 months, from April to July, making it available to even more kids in the metro.

The fee is at Php 5,500 per course, inclusive of the use of Apple devices pre-installed with applications, and all other learning materials required in each course. After the week-long workshops, each attendee will take home a certificate and the flash drive containing the individual projects they created.

“It has already been a decade since we started creating and promoting different playgrounds of technology for the Power Mac Center Training Center, yet surely, with the positive impact it has brought to a lot of kids now, you can expect us to continue this advocacy for the next decade or more,” said Power Mac Center Marketing Director Joey Alvarez.

Reservation is validated by full payment and follows a “First come, first served” policy. Payment may be made at Power Mac Center Greenbelt 3, TriNoma, or Festival Alabang, or at the Training Center at 2L Cedar Executive Bldg. 1, 1006 Arnaiz Avenue, Makati City.

For more details, emailpbsi@powermaccenter.com or call (632) 553 4211 / (632) 553 6399 / +63 908 885 6277 / +63 916 358 6056. Official hashtags:#PMCSummerWorkshop2018#creativeplayground

DOE E-SAFETY MO Advisory: 2.7kg LPG Cylinders “For Outdoor Use Only”

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Department of Energy (DOE) required manufacturers and retailers to comply with the additional marking of 'For Outdoor Use Only' on the body of every small-sized 2.7 kilogram liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders sold in the market.

This new rule is outlined in Department Circular No. DC2018-03-0004 entitled: “Prohibiting the Sale and Distribution of Small-Sized 2.7kg Capacity and Below LPG Cylinders without the Required “For Outdoor Use Only” Marking in Addition to the Usual Mandatory Marking for LPG Cylinders.”

The policy is consistent with the revised Philippine National Standards (PNS) 03-1:2014 issued by the Bureau of Product Standards specifying the additional mandatory marking to be indicated in the body of a small-sized 2.7kg LPG cylinders.

The new marking also serves as a warning to consumers that the product should not be used inside their homes. Other mandatory markings are brand name and logo, net content in kilogram, tare weight in kilogram, date of requalification (month/year) and safety warning signs and other informational signs as prescribed.

Energy Secretary Alfonso G.  Cusi pointed out, “The intention of the new policy is to increase the safety precaution on the use of LPG products, particularly the 2.7kg LPG cylinders to significantly reduce the risks of fire hazards.”

“We need to put a stop to the destructive fire incidents caused by the misuse of 2.7kg LPG cylinders, which should technically be for outdoor use only”, Cusi explained.

The energy chief said the issuance is timely as the country observes Fire Prevention Month this March.

Based on the monitoring of the DOE-Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB), the recent fire incidents in Caloocan, Quezon City and Taguig were all related to the indoor use of 2.7kg LPG.

The DOE advises the public that 2.7 kg cylinder lacks the following safety features:

1.) Pressure Relief Valve (PRV); and

2.) Regulator

Without these two components, the possibility of having LPG leaks is much higher as compared with household LPG cylinders which comply with these features. This is a major reason why the DOE is advising the consumers that small-sized 2.7kg LPG cylinders should only be used outside for proper outdoor ventilation to prevent the accumulation of LPG vapor in an enclosed space that would result in fire hazards, including explosion.

The Circular also outlined the penalties for any violation committed by LPG refiller/marketer, dealer and LPG retail outlet.

Based on the latest data from the DOE-OIMB, the LPG companies with small-sized 2.7kg LPG cylinders are the following:

1.) Shine Gaz;

2.) Petron Gasulette;

3.) Superkalan (Brenton); and

4.) Powerkalan (Pryce Gases).

The Circular on 2.7kg LPG markings was published on 20 March (Tuesday) in two (2) newspapers of general circulation, which will take effect immediately after its publication.

“Your safety is our paramount concern. Let us use our energy resources wisely,” Cusi concluded.

Please report any violation of the new rule to the DOE-OIMB through tel. nos. ‎840-2184 and ‎840-2130 or email at info@doe.gov.ph

Essential Foot Care Tips For People With Diabetes

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Good foot care is essential for everyone. It is especially important, however, if you have lost feeling in your feet as a result of diabetes. If you experience numbness or a loss of sensation, you should talk to your doctor to learn more about the underlying cause. They may refer you to a podiatrist for help.

If you want to start taking better care of your feet, the tips below should help. By putting these suggestions into action, you can keep your feet healthy and strong for many years to come.

Visit The Doctor Annually

At least once a year, you should have your feet examined by a doctor to make sure that there are no problems that need to be addressed. If you notice an issue with your feet before it is time for your annual checkup, however, you should make an appointment to have the problem looked at right away. It is better to deal with potential problems immediately rather than letting them go.

Find Out About Any Risks

Talk to your doctor about whether or not you need to take special steps to protect your feet. Most diabetics fall into a high-risk category for developing foot problems. Along with providing you with information on how to prevent common problems, they should also give you the name of a podiatrist who can help you deal with any current issues that you may be having. Find out what signs and symptoms you should watch for so that you can notice and deal with any problems right away.

Examine Your Feet On A Daily Basis

If you have diabetes, it is important to examine your feet on a daily basis. Checking your feet is the best way to spot problems before they get out of hand.

Try checking your feet at the same time each day so that it becomes a habit. For instance, in the morning before you put your socks on, closely examine your feet, keeping your eyes open for any changes. If you notice a problem, schedule an appointment with your doctor right away.

If it is hard for you to see the soles of your feet, lay a mirror on the ground and use that to examine them. If your eyesight isn't good enough to see any problems in the mirror, you can also ask a family member or friend to help you examine your feet. If none of these solutions work, you may need to talk to your doctor to come up with a plan for how you can check your feet for problems on your own.

Use Extra Caution If You Have A Loss Of Sensation

If you have lost feeling in your feet, it is especially important to examine them closely for problems. You should also keep them covered as much as possible. Walking around barefoot is a surefire recipe for disaster when you can't feel the ground underfoot.

Sometimes, it can be hard to tell whether or not you have actually lost sensation in your feet. Again, this is where a doctor can help. Having your feet professionally evaluated can help you identify areas where you may no longer have feeling in your feet.

Use Care When Trimming Your Toenails

Trimming your toenails may not seem like a big deal. However, if you have a health condition like diabetes that affects your feet, a small injury can lead to a major problem.

As a general rule of thumb, you should keep your toenails neatly trimmed. However, try to avoid cutting them too short and don't cut into the side of the nail. Use nail clippers to trim them. Then, file any rough edges away with an emery board. Instead of scraping underneath them to remove any dirt, use the bristles of a brush.

Washing your feet can help remove any dirt from your feet and toenails, helping to minimize the risk of infection. Warm, soapy water is all you need. Just make sure to test the water before submersing your feet. Otherwise, you may not be able to tell whether or not it is too hot. Avoid soaking your feet in the water so that they don't become waterlogged.

Again, if you don't have feeling in your feet or if you are concerned about how to properly care for your toenails, it is worth making an appointment with a podiatrist. They can help advise you on how to take better care of your feet.

Avoid Using Corn Plasters Or Blades On Your Skin

Never use products that could damage the skin on your feet such as blades or corn plasters. Any type of damage could lead to infection. If you have hard skin, you may be able to use a pumice stone to remove it. However, you still need to use extreme caution. Typically, the best bet is to talk to a podiatrist if you have thick, rough skin on your feet or other types of foot problems.

Applying an emollient cream is a great way to keep your feet healthy and moisturized. It is important to apply it in the right way, however. Avoid getting any cream in between your toes. The same holds true for foot powder. If you get excess powder between your toes, it could make your skin too dry.

Wear Shoes And Socks That Fit Properly

Shoes and socks can be problematic if they are too loose or too tight.

When shopping for shoes and socks, make sure that you get a good fit. Ill-fitting shoes that rub on your feet or that are too tight can lead to foot injuries, as can holey socks or socks that have thick, stiff seams.

When looking for shoes, there are a few important features that you should look for. First, you should make sure the shoes are wide enough for your feet. The toe area of the shoe should be rounded, ensuring that your toes have room to move without being squished together. Avoid high heels in favor of flats. Shoes that buckle or lace are ideal since they can be adjusted to fit perfectly on your feet. A lot of people enjoy Instride shoes and find them comfortable.

Again, this is another area where a podiatrist can help. They can evaluate your feet and make shoe recommendations based on the size and shape of your feet as well as your lifestyle.

Keep Your Diabetes Under Control

Keeping your blood sugar in check can help minimize the risk of foot problems developing or worsening.

Of course, sometimes it isn't easy to get control over your blood sugar. There are a lot of factors that need to be considered including your diet, your activity level, and your medication. Stress can also interfere with your treatment routine.

If you are having trouble keeping your blood sugar values in the proper range, it is worth meeting with a specialist to discuss your treatment plan. They can help you evaluate areas where you may be able to make changes to get better control over your numbers.

You may also want to consider seeking support from other people who suffer from diabetes. There are a lot of groups out there that you can join where you can get advice, support, and guidance.

Try To Quit Smoking

The fact that smoking is bad for your health is something that everyone knows. For diabetics, however, the risk is even higher.

Smoking interferes with proper circulation, keeping your blood from flowing the way that it should through your entire body. This includes your feet. If you smoke and have diabetes, your risk of having to have a foot amputated dramatically increases.

FDCP, DILG and PCW Partner for Women’s Film Fest

Wazzup Pilipinas!

In line with the celebration of the National Women’s Month and in honor of Filipino women and their contributions in shaping families and societies, Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), together with Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) are launching the CineMarya – a festival of short films centering on women.

“The festival aims to tell stories of Filipino women, more than their beauty, but their strength and passion, rising above prejudice and struggles in society,” said FDCP Chairperson Liza Dino during the launch of the Festival last March 23 at the FDCP Cinematheque Center Manila. The launch was also attended by DILG Asec. Marjorie Jalosjos and Chief of Corporate Affairs and Information Resource Management Division of the Philippine Commission on Women Ms. Honey M. Castro.

For its first year, CineMarya will grant a seed money of One Hundred Thousand Pesos (P 100,000.00) to interested participants aged 18 to 30 years old to produce a 10 to 20-minute short films tackling women empowerment, different roles of women in the society, and awareness about diverse social issues on women and equality and others. The festival is open to filmmakers who have not yet made a feature film/documentary.

As part of the Festival as well, FDCP will conduct an educational component for the ten (10) finalists of CineMarya by providing two (2) slots (preferably the director and another representative) to the FDCP Filmmaking Workshop Series – Planting Seeds and Film Industry Conference during Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino 2018.

The finalists will also have the privilege to undergo the CineMarya film camp - a 2-day intensive filmmaking workshop in a secluded area in Rizal featuring multiple filmmakers, PCW representatives, and others. Each production team’s director shall serve as a fellow for this intensive program that would help develop their skills in story development, editing, and other elements of filmmaking to better advocate women empowerment. 

Applicants may submit their entries to FDCP from April 1, 2018 to June 30, 2018.