Saturday, April 15, 2017

Books, Roses Abound at Día del Libro


Wazzup Pilipinas!
In celebration of Día del Libro or the International Book DayInstituto Cervantes, the cultural arm of the Embassy of Spain, will once again be abuzz with cultural and fun activities on April 22Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at the Ayala Triangle Gardens.
Thousands of books galore, just like in the previous Día del Libro editions, as top bookstores and publishing houses will be selling a wide array of books at 20% discount. Following the tradition in Spain, every book purchase would entitle one to a free rose.
The Día del Libro tradition, which began in Barcelona, was first introduced in Manila by Instituto Cervantes in 2006. The tradition is commemorated on St. George’s Day (April 23), during which men and women exchange roses and books. This also honors two of history’s greatest writers – Miguel de Cervantes and William Shakespeare – who coincidentally died on the same day, April 23, 1616.
These significant events prompted the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to declare April 23as World Book and Copyright Day to instill love of reading among the youth and to promote respect for authors’ rights over their literary and artistic works.
April is also the birth month of classic Filipino poet Francisco Balagtas, and to honor him the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) declared April the National Literature Month.

FDCP, SM Cinema Launch Cine Lokal


Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Film Development Council of the Philippines recently partnered with SM Cinema in its efforts to strengthen its commitment to support Philippine cinema as well as champion independent films.

Cine Lokal, a new cinema line which aims to house award-winning, independent films and FDCP programs in select SM Cinema branches across the country, will be launched this month.

FDCP Chair and CEO Liza Diño and SM Lifestyle Entertainment, Inc. (SMLEI) President Edgar Tejerero recently signed a three-year contract as they formalized the partnership at Cerchio in Tomas Morato.

Diño stressed that Cine Lokal’s goal is two-fold: to provide independent filmmakers with a commercial venue for their films, thereby strengthening their experience and training on film marketing and distribution, and to create a culture of support and viewership among Filipinos nationwide.

FDCP and SM Cinema have signified their commitment to work together from booking, licensing, up to marketing of the films to be shown in Cine Lokal branches to ensure the success of their venture.

“Independent films mirror our society’s milieu in the most meaningful and affective of ways and we are grateful to SM Cinema for this great opportunity for us to bring more choices of these films closer to our people,” Diño added.

Benilde Holds 7th CineSB Film Festival


Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Digital Filmmaking Program of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde School of Design Arts recently celebrated the “Rise of the Digital Philippine Cinema” by hosting the 7th CineSB Film Festival at the SDA Theater.

Benilde film majors under the Demo Reel and Film Festival (DEMOFES) class of CineSB: Special Edition Festival Director Joey Ting organized the two-day event which presented award-winning short films with local and international distinctions (Maningning Shorts), original films directed by La Sallian student filmmakers (Berde Shorts) and those from other colleges and universities (Sibol Shorts).

Filmmakers, multimedia arts and communication students from DLS-CSB, DLS-Lipa, DLSU-Dasmariñas, Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Far Eastern University, Lyceum of the Philippines University, Mapua Institute of Technology, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Muntinlupa, Polytechnic University of the Philippines and UP Diliman participated in the film festival.

“As we foreground the significance of digital filmmaking as a medium for storytelling through the works of our students, we explore its potential to transform and impact our lives because we gain insights and understanding about life and our world when these stories are told and shared,” DLS-CSB SDA New Media Cluster Associate Dean Sharon Mapa Arriola stressed in her opening remarks last March 30.

Thursday, April 13, 2017

United Airlines Forcibly Removes Passenger to Accommodate Their Own Employees


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Statement from United Airlines CEO, Oscar Munoz, on United Express flight 3411

"Dear Team, 
The truly horrific event that occurred on this flight has elicited many responses from all of us: 
outrage, anger, disappointment. I share all of those sentiments, and one above all: my deepest apologies for what happened. Like you, I continue to be disturbed by what happened on this flight and I deeply apologize to the customer forcibly removed and to all the customers aboard. No one should ever be mistreated this way. 
I want you to know that we take full responsibility and we will work to make it right. 
It's never too late to do the right thing. I have committed to our customers and our employees that we are going to fix what's broken so this never happens again. This will include a thorough review of crew movement, our policies for incentivizing volunteers in these situations, how we handle oversold situations and an examination of how we partner with airport authorities and local law enforcement. We'll communicate the results of our review by April 30th. 
I promise you we will do better. 
Sincerely,
Oscar"
United Airlines passenger David Dao was forcibly dragged off the plane after the airline reported that they overbooked and had no more room for four of their crew. Passengers were first offered a hotel accommodation and $400 to volunteer to deplane but there were no takers. They then raised it to $800 but still no takers. The airlines last resort was to randomly select the four passenger. Three of them went off the plane, but one man refused to get off because he told them he had patients waiting for him at their destination. The passenger was said to be a doctor.

United Airlines CEO Oscar Munoz released a message on Twitter which could be summarized as "I’m sorry. We will fix this."

But the damage has been done, and recently the stocks of United Airlines was reported to have gone down by $1.4 Billion after the forced passenger removal.


Stop calling this overbooking!! You booted paying customers to fly employees. 

First, the flight was not overbooked. The removal of passengers was only to relocate United staff. Second, United may have broken FAA regulations by not continuing to negotiate compensation with all passengers. Third, it does not appear this passenger was given the mandatory written document explaining why it was necessary for him to depart the plane. This has to be given at the time the decision is conveyed to the passenger. Fourth, it seems that FAA regulations require airlines to inform passengers selected for removal exactly what criteria were used to select them over other passengers. They need to do this at the time, not later, it must be immediately given to the passenger. If any of these possibilities are correct then United should be required to explain to the FAA, and, hopefully, a judge and jury, why it was necessary to apparently assault and injure a passenger who had legally boarded an aircraft and taken his allocated seat. 


The poor man's rights were severely violated, I can't even begin to think of how he is ever going to be compensated to make up for the treatment he received. The man is already 69years old! What if he had heart attack or stroke or other serious illness. Then this violence action might kill him. The horrific treatment he endured, showing this on TV worldwide, for him, had to be so humiliating. CEO of United needs to step down because this airline has been tanking for decades on customer service and this just put the icing on the cake.



Before you said the passenger was disruptive and belligerent and HAD to be removed? Now you are investigating? Doesn't matter what is said, UNITED authorized the forced removal and subsequent injury of a PAYING passenger, United you are 100% at fault on this one.


This myth that passengers don't have rights needs to go away, ASAP. You are dead wrong when saying that United legally kicked him off the plane.

1. First of all, it's airline spin to call this an overbooking. The statutory provision granting them the ability to deny boarding is about " OVERSALES", specifically defines as booking more reserved confirmed seats than there are available. This is not what happened. They did not overbook the flight; they had a fully booked flight, and not only did everyone already have a reserved confirmed seat, they were all sitting in them. The law allowing them to denying boarding in the event of an oversale does not apply.

2. Even if it did apply, the law is unambiguously clear that airlines have to give preference to everyone with reserved confirmed seats when choosing to involuntarily deny boarding. They have to always choose the solution that will affect the least amount of reserved confirmed seats. This rule is straightforward, and United makes very clear in their own contract of carriage that employees of their own or of other carriers may be denied boarding without compensation because they do not have reserved confirmed seats. On its face, it's clear that what they did was illegal-- they gave preference to their employees over people who had reserved confirmed seats, in violation of 14 CFR 250.2a.

3. Furthermore, even if you try and twist this into a legal application of 250.2a and say that United had the right to deny him boarding in the event of an overbooking; they did NOT have the right to kick him off the plane. Their contract of carriage highlights there is a complete difference in rights after you've boarded and sat on the plane, and Rule 21 goes over the specific scenarios where you could get kicked off. NONE of them apply here. He did absolutely nothing wrong and shouldn't have been targeted. He's going to leave with a hefty settlement after this fiasco.


The costs of a lawsuit is less than brand value lost from all the social media outcry & their market cap sinking by $1B in 8 hrs. They think people are fools - the insincerity and arrogance of United's CEO is so obvious.

To disrespect your customers & throw them off is detestable & shows you are completely out of touch with your customers. This is not "flying the friendly skies with United!" Shame on you.

"When there's no more seating, prepare for a beating".

Wednesday, April 12, 2017

Bounty Fresh Food Inc. Officially Sponsors the Manila Masters


Wazzup Pilipinas!

With the Manila Masters, the hottest DotA tournament to hit Southeast Asia this year less than 50 days away, we would like to welcome Bounty Fresh as official gold sponsor to the event.

Marlon Marcelo, Mineski Corporation - VP for Marketing and Events:
Just like Mineski, Bounty Fresh is committed to shaping their industry through technological innovation to ensure premium quality products and services. It is through these similarities in vision that we at Mineski are confident in working with Bounty Fresh for our biggest project up to date.
With one of the biggest and most reliable brand of chicken and egg products in the Philippines entering the Manila Masters, esports continues to make leaps and bounds towards breaking into the mainstream.
I’m looking forward to working with Bounty Fresh and seeing just what kind of impact we can make together in bringing competitive gaming to a more general audience and showcasing just what the esports dream is all about.

Twinkle Magbag, Bounty Fresh Food Inc. - First VP for Marketing Intelligence and Campaign Planner
In this digital, tech-savvy world, we need to stay relevant. Bounty Fresh, being the 1st ever Philippine brand to win the 2009 Asian Livestock Industry Award, strongly values innovation and change. The brand cuts across age and socio-economic class and we would like to remain strongly relatable especially among the young generation through various consumer brands under Bounty. It's our company's mission to "make food exciting... everyday... everywhere!"

We are privileged to partner with Mineski Corporation because it has proven its expertise in engaging the youth. It's been known in successfully conducting premier e-sports tournaments, making every event a sure hit among teens and young professionals.

With this new partnership, we expect to further expand our consumer base by encouraging more youngsters to try and continue patronizing Bounty Fresh because of the wide-array of products available for this segment of the market. True to our company's vision where "we do more to bring happiness to families through life's bounty," indeed, this collaboration with Mineski Corporation will surely bring happiness and joy to the young generation.

The Manila Masters Pinoy Tour continues this weekend, with our PH team going to six more cities, while the Southeast Asia Open Qualifier begins tomorrow!

Be sure to check out Bounty Fresh through their official website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.


For more of the hottest Manila Masters updates, make sure to follow us closely on Facebook and Twitter!

UP Circle of Entrepreneurs Proudly Presents Simbuyo: An OPM Festival


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Come and join the fun as the UP Circle of Entrepreneurs celebrates its 26th year with Simbuyo: An OPM Festival.

This coming April 21, at the UP College of Mass Communication Open Grounds, enjoy a night of food, games and excitement as UPCE ends its week-long anniversary celebration with Simbuyo. Sing your hearts out to a line-up of live performances by both renowned and up-and-coming local artists for free as you enjoy good food with great company from a selection of food and beverage concessionaires. Feel the nostalgia with the carnival-themed game booths available at the venue.

Each attendee will receive products from our sponsors as well as a chance win gift vouchers from Clinique, John Robert Powers and iFlix!

This event is brought to you by Clinique, John Robert Powers, Monster Energy Drink, Tony & Jackey and Trampoline Park Philippines. 

Wazzup Pilipinas is a proud media partner.


Visit and like our page for more details: https://www.facebook.com/upcesimbuyo/

CE you there!

Add Color To Life with Wilkins Delight Endorsed by Kylie Verzosa and Matteo Guidicelli


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Welcoming you at the event was the huge letters displaying the hashtag #AddColorToLife as it obviously becomes the official hashtag for the launch.

Wazzup Pilipinas was among the many to see the latest product from Coca-Cola Philippines - Wilkins Delight, a mix of Wilkins Pure water and fruit juices (available in apple, orange and pomelo flavors) which are available in 425mL pack at the suggested retail price of PhP 15, and in 250mL pack for an SRP of PhP 10. The product is proudly endorsed by their brand ambassadors celebrity Matteo Guidicelli and reigning Miss International Kylie Verzosa, both introduced at the event as well.

The grand launch was held on April 6, 2017 at 46 Mckinley Road North Forbes Park located in Makati City.

Everyone all wore white, including the VIP guests, and were prepared to get wet and a lot more colorful (I just don't know how) as the event promises to get rid of the usual dull and boring with the introduction of Wilkins Delight. It became a colorful life because of the new fruit drinks?

At first, while everyone was waiting for the event to start, the holding area was all colored plain black and white and with similarly colored decors. Out came also individuals wearing black, gray and white colored outfits with white and grayish make-up concealing their facial colors. They were also moving at a very slow pace to signify a very boring aura. The food served was also plain in color from black, white, gray and beige.

When everyone was finally allowed to enter the event area, the initial welcome was also dull, until the main revelation of the product.

Brands and Personalities Recognized at Golden Globe Awards for Business Excellence 2017


Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Golden Globe Annual Awards for Business Excellence award-giving body is celebrating their "10th Year" Anniversary this 2017, and what better way to celebrate but to continue to recognize well deserving brands and personalities from different sectors of business including government service.

Among the notable awardees that were present that night were celebrity comedian Kaye Brosas who we regularly see at ABS-CBN's Umagang Kay Ganda as a co-host. There was also Ilocos Governor Imee Marcos who received an award for their provincial LGU. Also among the government officials was Strike Revilla, representative from the 2nd district of Cavite province. Plus a lot more awardees as the Grand Ballroom of the Manila Hotel was filled with several awardees coming also from many SMEs.

Wazzup Pilipinas has also been chosen as one of the recipients of the Golden Globe Annual Awards for Business Excellence and Filipino Achiever 2017.

It is our nth award coming from different award-giving bodies but we continue to appreciate every recognition conferred to us. We highly welcome all acknowledgement of all our efforts and accomplishments so we readily accept the trophy and certificate received by every awardee.

My First Drone Media Launch of Propel RC Philippines


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Many would see it more like a toy but it definitely does a lot more than just fly or hover. It has its limitations compared to the expensive ones, but what would you expect from a less than 1K (P998) worth of gadget?

True enough to their launch title, Propel RC Philippines' Atom 1.0 Micro Drone could be your ideal "first drone" as its price is not too bad that it would be easier for us to lose or break them without regretting the cost of investment. You get to practice flying a drone so you could be better when using the more expensive brands and models.

They did showed us a couple of bigger models but the night was focused on the micro drones.

The media launch was held on March 23, 2017 at the Vu's Sky Bar & Lounge of Marco Polo Hotel in Ortigas.

The micro drone, which is small enough to easily land on the palm of your hand, is battery operated and available in several colors. However, they are starting only with four colors (black, silver, blue and red) for the Philippine media launch. Though the organizers showed me several color options, they would probably become available only if the demand is high enough.

During the media launch, the organizers said it would be available that night at Lazada online shopping portal and at selected Family Mart and 7-11 convenience stores by March 27, 2017.

They also recently announced that the Atom Micro Drone 1.0 will also be available in all Hobbes and Landes and Build City locations starting April 11, 2017.

Broadcaster Jing Castaneda, DOH ASec Dr.Eric Tayag and Dr. Dreyfuss Perlas Highlight Health Exemplar Awards Night


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Here are some videos from the H&L Health Exemplar Awards held on the night of March 22, 2017 at the One Canvas Events Place, located at Chino Roces Avenue in Makati City.

Notable awards recipients are Dr. Dreyfuss Perlas, the doctor-volunteer to the barrio killed by a gunman last March 1, who was given a posthumous award that was received by his uncle since the family is pre-occupied back at their hometown.

Other awardees are Dr. Juan Sanchez, Dr. Richard Mata, Dr. Edgardo Ulysses Dorotheo, Dr. Iris Isip-Tan and the Mu Sigma Phi of the University of the Philippines College of Medicine. Those given special citations for their contributions to public health are Dr. Faith Guirnela-Go, Ms. Rosamy "Jing" Castaneda-Velasco and the Hepatology Society of the Philippines.

In the absence of the Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Paulyn Jean B. Rosell-Ubial, ASec Dr. Enrique Tayag, gave the keynote message and also a special dance performance that entertained the audience that night.

Dr. Rafael Castillo, Chairman of the Board of FAME Inc., gave the Opening Remarks and welcomes everyone to the awards night.

The H&L Health Exemplar Awards recognize individuals, institutions, governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, media entities and others who have effectively carried out activities and programs that promote a specific aspect of a healthy lifestyle and health-promoting behavior which includes diet and nutrition, exercise and fitness, smoking cessation, relaxation and stress control, hygiene and cleanliness. The awardees' contributions are recognized for the positive health-promoting andhealth-seeking behavior they have achieved in their respective communities or the entire population.

Noted medical specialists from the Medical Advisory Board (MAB) of the Health and Lifestyle (H&L) magazine compose the Board of Judges. The H&L MAB is composed of prominent physicians who are virtual who's who in the country's medical field.

This year's board of judges is composed of Dr. Ramon Abarquez, Jr., Dr. Augusto Litonjua, Dr. Adolfo Bellosillo, Dr. Abdias Aquino, Dr. Bien Cabral, Dr. Willie Ong and Dr. Bibly Macaya.

Below are just some of the videos taken from the event. More can be found at our official YouTube Channel at https://www.YouTube.com/wazzuppilipinas

Eduard Folayang Feels Privileged to Headline ONE Championship’s 10th Event in the Philippines


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Although Eduard “Landslide” Folayang has been with ONE Championship since its inception in 2011, it marks the first time that he will be in the top bill of the organization’s live event in the Philippines.

The 33-year-old Baguio City native is set to lock horns with Malaysian-Kiwi sensation Ev “E.T.” Ting in the main event of ONE: KINGS OF DESTINY, which is ONE Championship’s tenth blockbuster show on Philippine shores.

With ten marquee matchups slated on the card, ONE: KINGS OF DESTINY takes place at the 20,000-capacity SM Mall of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines on 21 April.

Folayang, who is universally recognized as the face of the Philippine MMA scene, has previously headlined two events under the ONE Championship banner.

The popular Team Lakay representative competed in the headliner of ONE Championship’s inaugural card, where he notched a unanimous decision victory over Korean veteran A-Sol Kwon.

Five years later, Folayang found himself in the same position when he challenged Japanese MMA legend Shinya “Tobikan Judan” Aoki for the ONE Lightweight World Championship title in the main event of ONE: DEFENDING HONOR.

You Can Be Part of the Story ...Only If...


Wazzup Pilipinas!
"Looking for someone who loves attending events, behaves and dresses well, speaks eloquently, and can write about the event within 2 days regardless of how many he or she attended (max of 3 a day.) This is a paid gig. 
People who plagiarize,
People with no breeding,
People who just want lootbags/tokens/freebies,
People who just want to be "seen,"
Do not bother applying.
Thanks. 
Email 3 original articles to editor@_____"
Not to speak bad about someone or any group out there but this is just a thought that came in mind when I saw the post above. It made me wonder why they had to specify the negative traits instead of enumerating the positive ones that they prefer to be traits of their new staff members.

I don't know but the post sounded so ..... inappropriate...To even list down the negative traits as their requirements for a blogger or writer is below the belt. It should already be an unwritten qualification for every good person out there. 

But I guess they really wanted to prevent those from even attempting to apply for the gig they flaunted as "paid." What is the rate of a writer getting paid on a monthly, or a per article, basis, anyway? Many would surely want to get paid for the efforts so they would no longer desire to receive the "tokens" ore free lunch, snacks or dinner. Lol!

I believe they should have just listed down the positive requirements to make the position more attractive and friendly.

How to Escape Torment and Abuse? Watch it on GMA This April


Wazzup Pilipinas!

CBN Asia brings you 3 inspiring stories about freedom and redemption from torment and abuse in its much anticipated Holy Week Special, The 700 Club Asia Presents Sais-Katorse and Nuno, and Tanikala Presents Wasak which airs on GMA, April 13-15, 2017 for Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Black Saturday respectively.

Commercial model, host, and DJ, Sonjia Calit-Kakilala plays the role of Aubrey Juanta in Sais-Katorse, a true-to-life story of sexual and physical abuse which will be shown on Maundy Thursday, April 13 at 6:00 p.m.

How did Aubrey meet freedom from her whirlwind of misfortunes that started when her own father destroyed her innocence as her mother allows it?

“The main take away for me here is that God is sovereign and able to turn things around for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose,” Sonjia said in vernacular.

“There’s no life that He cannot change. I hope that everyone who will watch this will see that God is really powerful and He is always in the business of turning lives around,” she added.

Meanwhile, the true-to-life story of Armand Valdez in his fortune-and-torment experiences with the dwarves entitled, Nuno, airs April 14, Good Friday at 6:00 p.m.

Jodi Sta. Maria, a Prodigal Daughter Now at Home in Her Father’s Arms


Wazzup Pilipinas!

She played Amor Powers in the 2015 remake of Pangako Sa’yo and starred in the Box Office hit, The Achy Breaky Hearts in 2016. What more can this Emmy nominated actress give to us?

Amazingly, ABS-CBN star Jodi Sta. Maria shares her talent for a much greater cause as she takes the lead role of Nikki Villegas in CBN Asia Presents, In My Father’s Arms.

Wondering about Jodi’s experience with CBN Asia? Here it is as she responds in vernacular.


What made you say yes to this project with CBN?

This is something I have never done before. I consider this as ministry work. I’ve been in the business as an actor for 17 years and I believe that it is really important to share the message of this story to the audience. I actually feel honored and privileged to be a part of this Holy Week Special.


What was it like working with CBN Asia?


It’s different (laughs). This is the very first time that I worked with CBN Asia. I like how we begin our day with a prayer and whenever there are important scenes or heavy scenes, we always pray. We also end our day with a prayer. We all know that we are doing something that brings glory to God so it is really different in that sense, and I like how calm the set was (laughs).

Cybersecurity an Issue that Warrants Urgent Attention: Fortinet PH


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Fortinet, a global leader in high-performance cyber security solutions, urged businesses here to start leveraging advanced cybersecurity technologies to ensure a smooth journey towards digital transformation.

In the recently held 4th National Summit on Cybercrime, spearheaded by the Philippine National Police-Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG), Alvin Rodrigues, chief security strategist of Fortinet Asia Pacific, said that firms are looking at digital transformation as a strategy to help them gain a competitive edge.

Digital transformation is the process of aligning business models, technologies, business processes and people to deliver outstanding customer experience and value.

“As a company embarks on its digital transformation journey, it should include a cyber security strategy to protect its digital transformation process,” said Rodrigues.

Digital transformation in the Philippines has already begun as consumers here actively take part in social media and e-commerce activities. The rise in cyberattacks against consumers and businesses offering digital services, however, is worrying.

Such attacks are becoming more varied and sophisticated. Phishing and spear phishing, where cybercriminals try to obtain personal information by disguising themselves as trustworthy entities, are very common. So are maladvertisements – fictitious advertisements carrying malicious links that download malware to users’ computers.

Watering hole attacks, on the other hand, infect websites regularly visited by a company’s employees with malware. Once the employees visit and their devices get infected, the malware will make their way to the organization’s corporate network, to which the employee devices are connected.

Rodrigues noted that these attacks undergo a common "attack chain". After identifying their targets, attackers will decide their weapon of choice. They then launch an attack. If successful, the malware can stay in the network for months or years to collect valuable information about the organization.

Fortinet predicts that cyberattacks will get harder to detect as they become more human-like. These smarter attacks call for more intelligent and automated defenses.

Fortinet also foresees bigger threats to smart cities, which contain vast digital assets. Targets for cyber criminals include traffic systems, news broadcasters, telecommunication facilities, and power and utility installations. The allure of fame for successful hackers of smart cities – attacks are likely to be highly publicised in the media – also increases the likelihood of attacks.

“The task now is to gear up organizations to better break the cyberattack chain. Fortinet has the expertise to help them detect, prevent and mitigate attacks, and at the same time improve their security posture,” Rodrigues said.

Fortinet Philippines has been actively supporting the advocacies and plans of government agencies like the PNP-ACG, as well as the Department of Information Communications Technology (DICT) and National Privacy Commission (NPC).

One of the first steps a firm should take to determine its security posture is to get clarity on what's happening in its corporate networks. Fortinet is offering a free Cyber Threat Assessment Program (CTAP) that gives businesses a detailed analysis of all traffic and content flowing through its corporate networks. Following the analysis, Fortinet will flag areas of concern in a report, and work with a consultant to recommend mitigation measures.

Re-Connect with Family, Friends and Fab Dishes at Sobremesa by Chef Benjo Tuason


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Dining becomes more delightful when you are with family or friends. It becomes a lot more enjoyable if you are able to converse with them while enjoying a sumptuous meal may it be during anytime of the day at home or at our favorite restaurant.

However, conversations are quickly becoming a thing of the past because of our digital or online lifestyle where we spend most of our time focusing on our smartphones or tablets to check our SMS messages, e-mails or updates on our social media pages. The downside of being conveniently connected is we become Physically disconnected.

It's becomes a laughing matter when family or friends communicate with other through their devices even when they are just a few meters apart. But can you blame us if we find it easier to send our messages with our powerful devices which can do more like take photos or videos of our food?

Photo opportunities with Instagrammable dishes or parts of the restaurant, selfies or groupies with our companions, with the chef(s) and almost everything. It makes us creative and artistic, and we get to share our experience with a lot more people all over the world.

Tuesday, April 11, 2017

The Search for the Safari Sapphire at Century City Mall


Wazzup Pilipinas!

The annual search is on! Explore and get to know different exotic animals as you find the hidden gem into the depths of the African jungle here at Century City Mall on April 16, 2017!

To Join:

1. Spend a minimum of P2,000 (single or accumulated receipt) from any Century City Mall establishment from April 3 - 16, 2017.
2. Present your receipts at the Concierge located at the Ground Floor starting April 3, 2017.
3. Shoppers will be given a booking voucher code for The Search for the Safari Sapphire, which they can use to book online via www.mysterymanila.com.
4. Kids eight (8) years old and below should be accompanied by an adult and/or guardian to participate.
5. The Search for the Safari Sapphire booking voucher code admits a group of two(2) to four (4) people.

For more details, you may call 705-6200 loc. 111.

#CenturySafariSapphire

Foundation for Media Alternatives Launches Philippine Gender Report Card


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Foundation for Media Alternatives (FMA) launched a Digital Gender Report Card that measures the Philippines’ progress in closing the digital gender gap on April 6, 2017 at the Oracle Hotel and Residences, Quezon City. The launch and forum was attended by more than 60 participants from academe, government, women’s groups, community organizations, human rights organizations, youth groups, and other civil society groups.

The scorecard was developed by the World Wide Web Foundation with partner organizations from 10 countries and with support from UN Women and Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency. The overall country score is based on 14 indicators that were grouped into five main thematic categories, namely: internet access and women’s empowerment, relevant content and services, online safety, affordability, and digital skills and education. Scores for each indicator were given based on reliable empirical sources such as reports, surveys, and existing legislation from each of the countries.

The results of the Philippine scorecard, as well as the process by which it was developed was presented by FMA Executive Director Liza Garcia, who said that “the Report Card’s value is that it can be a tool to hold the Philippine government accountable in meeting the SDG gender and ICT targets.” Garcia also pointed out that the scorecard may be used to identify and eventually address gaps in data about women and ICTs in the Philippines. Overall, the results of the Scorecard showed that there is still an existing digital divide in the Philippines and there is still much to be addressed in terms of policies.

MRT7 Phase 1 Regalado Highway Closure


Wazzup Pilipinas!

ADVISORY: Due to the construction of MRT 7 Phase 1, a joint task-force composed of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the Quezon City Department of Public Order and Safety (QC-DPOS), and the EEI Corporation, will enforce a traffic management plan for the closure of one lane of Regalado Avenue in Quezon City starting 17 April 2017 (Monday) until 16 June 2017 (Friday).

In anticipation of the said closure, motorists are advised to take alternate routes. For additional information and other concerns, please contact Ms. Van Evangelista at 0917-8966135.

Wyre Underground of UPLB Proudly Presents "The Underground Movement: STATE U"


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Wyre Underground of UPLB, a university-recognized dance organization from the University of the Philippines Los Baños, is set to stage their third dance theatre production entitled “The Underground Movement: STATE U” this April 21, 2017, at the D.L Umali Auditorium with 3pm and 7pm shows respectively.

Wyre Underground of UPLB is recognized in the national hiphop scene for bagging numerous awards suchas: 1st place SkechersStreetdance Battle Eliminations Leg Year 7 and Leg Year 9 (2011, 2013), Back – to – Back Champions National Dance Championship College All-Girls Hiphop Division (2012, 2013), 1st Runner Up National Dance Championship College CoedHiphop Division (2013), 1st Runner Up Silver Dancelebration College Hiphop Category (2012).

For the past years, Wyre Underground hasstaged two major dance concerts namely “The Underground Movement: The Main Event” and “The Underground Movement: It’s About Time”. This year, as part of their 10th year anniversary, they will be staging the third installment of this production with the title“The Underground Movement: State U”.





“The Underground Movement: State U” takes inspiration from stories and issues surrounding the life of UPLB students and their community. It will be composed of 12 well-crafted routines from their in-house choreographers with special participation from Harmonya: The String Ensemble of UPLB, UPLB Sandayaw Cultural Group and UPLB Cheerdance Team. 


A percentage of the net profit of this dance concert will go to BukalngKapayapaan, a home for children with special needs located in TreceMartires, Cavite. Founded in 2010, the home currently houses 33 male children from age 7-23 years old and provides food, shelter, schooling and therapy for the children.

Feel free to witness this one of a kind dance concert from Wyre Underground of UPLB on April 21, 2017, 3pm and 7pm at the D.L Umali Auditorium, University of the Philippines Los Baños. Ticket price at 200php.

For ticket inquiries you may contact AlyannaTagamolila at 09063410969.

To learn more about Wyre Underground of UPLB you may visit fb.com/WyreUndergroundUPLB.

The Underground Movement: State U is brought to you by Hawk bags, CDO, San Marino and Red Pill Productions.

Wazzup Pilipinas is a proud media partner.

Lean: A Filipino Musical to be Staged by UP Manila Dramatista on May 12 and 13


Wazzup Pilipinas!

27 year-old UP Diliman student and noted "iskolar ng bayan" named Leandro Alejandro was shot and killed in September 19, 1987. As the iconic student activist, Lean fought for national democracy in the university and in the nation. He is one of the unsung heroes who have sacrificed their lives during the turbulent days of the martial law. His life has defined an era of student activism and his work still inspires the youth today.

Students of the University of the Philippines, being a state-funded institution, are called “Iskolar ng Bayan” or People’s Scholars. The description gained political weight during the First Quarter Storm (FQS) in the 70s, a time of discontent by a generation of Baby Boomers. The description also carried with it the aphorism “Serve the people.”



Described as a Filipino left wing activist and nationalist, UP student leader Lean Alejandro actively fought the dictatorship in the 1980s. Lean became a member of the Youth for Nationalism and Democracy in 1980-81. In 1983, he was chosen as a President of its University Student Council (USC). After Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. – himself a fighter and hero and a great pride of the UP students– was assasinated, Lean left the University and went full time in the anti-Marcos struggle. In 1985, Lean was one of the founders of the left-wing umbrella organization BAYAN becoming it's Secretary-General. He was arrested and detained for two months and participated in the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolt after he was released. Post-EDSA Revolution, Alejandro ran for a seat at the Philippine House of Representatives for the small district Navotas-Malabon losing to Teresa Aquino-Oreta, the sister-in-law of then president Corazon Aquino. in a controversial and disputed election.


After losing in the election, Lean returned to his previous activities as secretary-general of nationalist organization Bagong Alyansang Makabayan. Lean openly criticized the 1987 coup d’tat that killed and injured innocent civilians. On 19 September 1987, after the failed coup attempt led by Col. Gregorio Honasan, Alejandro announced plans for a major demonstration against the return to fascism. Returning by car to the headquarters of BAYAN, he was fired upon by a gunman instantly killing Alejandro. One suspected that the assassination had been in the angle of Marcos loyalists from the Philippine Army, but no one was arrested for the assassination. Up to this untimely death, Lean offered his life to people’s movement, speaking in mass demonstrations, writing articles and discussing social issues inside the campus and in urban poor communities.


Lean’s multi-roles as activist, politician, friend, husband, son and father will be recreated in the forthcoming LEAN - A FILIPINO MUSICAL produced by UP Manila Dramatista.

The playdates are: MAY 12 - FRI. - 7 PM and May 13 - SAT. - 4 PM / 7 PM.

Venue: ADAMSON UNIVERSITY THEATER located at 900 SAN MARCELINO ST., ERMITA MANILA.

The cast are as follows: Kenneth Mangurit (Lean), Frances Mendoza (Lidy), Carlo Cabahug (Ka Tanny), Carmela Reyes (Bobby), Dean Lopez (Edward), Lalaine Quinan (Jojo(, Neil Suyat (Noli), Raffy Baybay (Chino) and Uriel Molina (Mr. Tim).


Don't fail to watch this musical about the turbulent 1980s written by Gary Granada, one of the Philippines' best composers of songs that evoke nationalism and pride in our country. In this musical play, Gary Granada remixed the tune of “UP Naming Mahal” in a contemporary rock version and gave it a new and more "nationalistic sounding" lyrics, reasserting the purpose of the Iskolar ng Bayan as a "Iskolar ng Sambayanan, Tagapaglingkod ng Taongbayan".

LEAN - A FILIPINO MUSICAL shall also feature powerful catchy songs that breathe new life to the many different characters and personas of the 1980s. Through song and dance, the musical not only tells the story of the influential student activist but also creatively re-imagines the loud cries of the masses.

The September 1997 original production of LEAN THE FILIPINO MUSICAL was produced by the Leándro L. Alejandro Foundation and the UP Student Council in cooperation with the UP Diliman Committee for Arts and Culture. The musical featured renowned artists like Chikoy Pura, Bayang Barrios, Cookie Chua, and Noel Cabangon. In 2013, it was restaged by the University of the Philippines Repertory Company (UP Rep) with youth activists Vencer Crisostomo of Anakbayan and Third Alub of the League of Filipino Students who both played the role of Lean.

For further details and tickets, please call 0906-427-3981 c/o Zoe Caballero.

DOE Pushes For Speedy Rehab of Quake-Damaged Power Plants


Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Department of Energy (DOE) is pushing for the speedy repairs of the major power plants that sustained damage following a swarm of earthquakes that hit Batangas and the adjacent areas to ensure adequate power supply to the Luzon grid.

“We are continuously and closely coordinating with power industry players, especially those on the side of the generation industry for the safe and immediate rehabilitation of the power plants affected by the earthquake last Saturday,” Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said.

“Our priority is the safe and quick restoration of the power supply in the Luzon grid following the declaration of a Yellow Alert status today (11 April) from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. by the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP).”

The lost power capacities due to the earthquakes reached 1,570 megawatts (MW) following the forced outages of Avion Unit 2 (50MW), San Lorenzo Units 1 and 2 (500MW), Ilijan B (600MW) and San Gabriel (420MW).

“We are also calling for the ‘Bayanihan’ spirit among the power industry players to fast-track the rehabilitation of the plants,” Cusi added.

To ensure additional power capacity for the Luzon grid, the DOE likewise directed the NGCP to ensure continued operation of Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp.’s Malaya Units 1 and 2 Thermal Power Plant, with a combined dependable capacity of 450 MW.

In addition, the DOE reported that the Manila Electric Company (MERALCO) confirmed a total of 383 Interruptible Load Program (ILP) participants which are ready to run their generator sets with a total capacity of 212 MW once needed.

On the other hand the Visayas and Mindanao Grids have normal power condition.

Cusi appealed to the consumers to use power wisely to help stabilize energy demand particularly during the summer season.

Meanwhile, the DOE said it is currently engaged in talks with the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), Philippine Electricity Market Corporation (PEMC) and other industry players for the mitigating measures pertaining to spikes in the price of power.

According to the report of the PEMC, the current condition of the power market is still normal despite the loss of supply.

PEMC also reported that prices in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) are within normal level since many are observing Holy Week, which pulls down the demand resulting in lower prices despite reduced power generation.

On the ERC side, the DOE is looking at limiting the “moving average price” in the WESM to five (5) days from originally seven (7) days.

The shorter days mean that the DOE, ERC and PEMC can easily monitor movements in the WESM to protect the consumers from price shocks.

ANLENE Goes "Sakto"


Wazzup Pilipinas!

ANLENE makes superior nutrition accessible, convenient, and affordable with the release of ANLENE SAKTO. Anlene Sakto is a practical 30gm single-serve pack loaded with Anlene's unique combination of essential bone strengthening nutrients, BoneActiv.

ANLENE helps us to build and maintain our body's ability to move comfortably so we can go through the day accomplishing all that we need to do at work and at home, and still be able to engage in what we want to do for ourselves and our loved ones. ANLENE has 2x the Calcium, 5x the Vitamin D, and 6x lower in fat than regular adult milk. It has more protein.

For us people on-the-go who follow a long list of things-to-do every day, ANLENE Sakto is right for us. It is superior nutrition that is easy to bring anywhere, anytime to support our mobile, active lifestyle.

Anlene Sakto is available nationwide at suggested retail price of only P15.50.

Smart Provides Free Services Following Batangas Quake


Wazzup Pilipinas!

PLDT wireless subsidiary Smart Communications set up Libreng Tawag and Charging stations, and provided Smart Padala services free of charge in several locations in Batangas, following the series of earthquakes that struck the province over the weekend.

Smart's Libreng Tawag, Charging and Smart Padala services are set up in front of Mabini municipal hall following the series of earthquakes that hit Batangas.

Immediately after the magnitude-6 tremor, Smart deployed its free calling, charging and money transfer assistance in front of the Mabini Municipal Hall to serve affected residents in the area.

While the services of PLDT, Smart and Sun remained fully operational in the province, electricity was intermittent, and in some areas, cut off completely as several structures were damaged by the quake.


Engineers from Smart work to provide communications support for emergency operations in Mabini, Batangas.

Libreng Tawag, Charging and Smart Padala services were also deployed in Tingloy Island, Batangas.

In coordination with the Batangas Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and local government units, Smart also provided communication support and generator sets to aid response teams in their operations. The company also gave Wi-Fi access to the Office of Civil Defense’s Emergency Operations Center in Mabini. 


Smart has also provided tents as temporary shelters for affected residents at the Batangas City community park.

In addition, Smart set up tents at the Batangas City community park to serve as temporary shelters for residents who needed to evacuate their homes in the aftermath of the earthquake.

“Smart recognizes the importance of communications as relief in times of calamities,” said Ramon R. Isberto, Smart public affairs head. “Our Libreng Tawag and Charging and Smart Padala services are ready for deployment to affected areas whenever the need arises.”


A resident of Mabini town in Batangas uses the services of Smart's Libreng Tawag station at the municipal hall.

Batangas Gov. Hermilando Mandanas, meanwhile, thanked Smart for the services rendered to the province. “The Mabini and Batangas City LGUs extend their appreciation to all those who have made this possible. Maraming salamat po.”

As part of its #SafePH advocacy, Smart promotes resiliency and timely response in times of calamities. The company has been on the forefront of disaster preparedness by striving to deliver immediate assistance through communications and technology, as well as relief aid.

Haraya: Gumising at Maging Tinig para sa Kinabukasan ng Kabataan


Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Children’s Museum and Library, Inc. (CMLI) is a non-stock, non-profit foundation that is working to promote the welfare and development of the country’s youth. CMLI has endeavored to live up to its avowed objectives in uplifting the skills of Filipino youth in language and visual arts and promoting a deeper appreciation and understanding of their rich cultural heritage. The organization is continuously contributing to the welfare and growth of the Filipino Youth through advocating its goals and ideals by means of leadership training, talent development and social empowerment. And as we celebrate our 60th year, we have lined up a series of projects structured upon these programs – and we are inviting you to be part of it.

The CMLI Junior Council – Regional Executive Board National Capital Region (JC-REB NCR), the foundation’s youth arm in spreading the organization’s ideals in the different regions, will execute the project entitled “Children’s Day 2017” with the theme, “Haraya: Gumising at Maging Tinig para sa Kinabukasan ng Kabataan.” It is a whole-day outreach program filled with fun activities and discussions that would inculcate the ideals and values of the Filipino youth. They will be holding the event on April 23, 2017, Sunday, from 7:00 AM till 3:00 PM at the Quezon Memorial Circle Amphitheater. This outreach project will be inviting children from the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish (IHMP) Community.

In line with these, the CMLI JC-REB NCR has recurred a need for financial or material assistance in order to fuel up, steer on and usher in its momentous ambition of change. We ask for the your supportive hand in empowering the eventful cause that is arduous but meaningfully rewarding in the end. The fund will be utilized for the program and its logistics heaving the spirit of our organization to soar closer in the achievement of our goals. With all humility and earnestly, we request for your favorable support and would be able to set alight the core of our purpose as it becomes a searing wildfire of hope for a multitude. This support of yours will become a tenacious stone that will be used for the fortification of the success of this gratifying event





For more details, visit www.facebook.com/CMLIOfficial on Facebook or @cmlijcrebncr on Twitter. For inquiries, contact +639173025959 / +639175401967/ +639777779035. Our email, cmli.jcreb2017@gmail.com, would also serve as our means of communication.