Saturday, October 21, 2023

Popism: A Celebration of Pop Art


Wazzup Pilipinas!?




In today’s ever-evolving art scene, pop art remains a powerful force, continuing to influence and be reshaped by contemporary artists who give it new life and relevance — “Popism: A Celebration of Pop Art” offers a fresh glimpse into this dynamic movement.

Welcoming you to a vibrant assembly of local contemporary talent who breathe new life into the celebrated pop art style, this exhibition draws from the current vibrant cultural pulse. Their evocative portraits and vivid figures not only pay tribute to pop art’s heritage but also expand its horizons, infusing it with fresh narratives and insights.

Whether you’re deeply embedded in the art world or just starting your journey, this show is poised to enchant, enlighten, and deepen your connection to this iconic art form.

Artist’s Reception and Exhibit Opening
Oct. 21, 2023 | Saturday | 5 PM

Don't miss this exciting showcase! This exhibit is in partnership with Likhaan and will run until November 10.

Prepare to be spellbound as you embark on this artistic journey. “POPISM” invites you to explore the visionary works of the artists who breathe life into the heart of pop art. Their names — Alyssa Bartoline, Bigboy Cheng x Christian Tamondong, Kiefer ‘Kiefsix’ Indiongco, Kimmy Mamaril, Kris Abrigo, Mark Gil Berenguela, Megs Empinado, Rafa Labuntog, and Raymond Ty — are your passports to an extraordinary experience.

Celebrate your favorite esports games at the first-ever Smart GAMERFEST on Oct. 22


Wazzup Pilipinas!?



Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), in collaboration with the esports event management and production expert at Dark League Studios (DLS), is empowering esports players and fans to celebrate their favorite games at the first-ever, GAMERFEST at the SM Megamall, Megatrade Hall 2 on October 22, 2023, Sunday.

A free admission event, GAMERFEST will host the much-awaited live grand finals showdown of the Ultimate Battleground Championships on the Smart GIGA Arena, the first all-in-one esports platform in the country. This features tournaments in the King's League and Queens League for Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, the Delta League for Call of Duty: Mobile, and the highly anticipated debut season of Survivors of the Wasteland for Farlight 84.

The event will also give fans a chance to see some of the country's (1) top esports content creators in action. These include Thirdy Gaming, Crush Gaming, Patsy Reyes, Honda Beast, Althea Vibal, Kim Pacheco, Clare Galang, and Christy Mae Imperial, along with celebrated esports shout casters Leo Gaming, Toriyama, Odin, and Brigida.

GAMERFEST will also showcase an exhibition match featuring Smart Omega Team, who recently entered the playoffs of MPL Season 12, and a cosplay contest featuring characters from Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), Wildrift, Call of Duty Mobile (CODM), Players Unknown Battle Ground (PUBG), and Farlight, as well as showcase exciting demos and exclusive sneak peaks from gaming partners.

Gates will open at 10 a.m., and early birds will get a chance to win exciting prizes from Smart and Dark League Studios.



Score GIGA Arena tickets for only Php 20

Attendees can make the most of the first-ever GAMERFEST by taking their shot at Smart GIGA Arena. Smart and TNT subscribers can simply join any GIGA Arena tournament with (2) Giga Arena 20, which comes with two GIGA Arena tickets and 100MB for all apps valid for one day for only Php20. With GA 20, subscribers can pursue their passion for gaming and participate in the Ultimate Battleground Championships.

Smart GIGA Arena is powered by the Philippines’ Fastest and Best Mobile Network as recognized by Ookla, the global leader in mobile and broadband network intelligence. Smart is the first and only Philippine mobile operator to earn this prestigious and rare citation for three consecutive reporting periods by Ookla —Q1-Q2 2022, Q3-Q4 2022, and Q1-Q2 2023.

To learn more about the event, visit https://gigaarena.smart/event/369

Friday, October 20, 2023

UPD-CS celebrates 40 years with Science Film Festival in partnership with Goethe Institut


Wazzup Pilipinas!?




In celebration of its 40th Anniversary, the UP Diliman College of Science in partnership with the Goethe-Institut is providing free university and public screenings of the Philippine Science Film Festival Philippines 2023.

The two days of screenings (see schedule below) will kick off on the College’s Anniversary on Thursday, October 26, and will be held at the UPD-CS Institute of Biology Auditorium at the National Science Complex, UP Diliman. Students and members of the public are free to attend but may be asked to show a valid university or government ID for security purposes.

Founded in 1983, the UP Diliman College of Science is the country's premier generator of new scientific knowledge and the leading producer of PhD and MS graduates in the basic and applied sciences and mathematics. In 2023 alone, the College graduated 19 PhDs, the most in its four-decade history.

The Science Film Festival Philippines, now in its 14th year, will be held from October 25 to December 01, 2023. Celebrated as one of the biggest and longest-running science events in the Philippines, the festival offers a roster of 34 science-related films in support of the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.





FILM SCHEDULES

DAY 1 (October 26, Thursday)



Short Film Entries

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Ranging in length from 6 minutes to 10 minutes, these brief documentaries cover a range of topics from “The Forgotten Forest” to “Redesigning the Wheel”.



Powering Puerto Rico

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

This is a film about a Northeastern University professor's innovative solution to provide affordable renewable power to Puerto Rico using reconditioned hybrid car batteries after Hurricane Maria left millions without electricity.



A League of Extraordinary Makers: Rise of the Makers

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

A documentary exploring the rise of the Maker Movement, highlighting individuals who create, innovate, and hack a wide range of products and technologies, from everyday items to groundbreaking innovations, as they become the heroes of this movement.



Kelp – South Africa's Golden Forests | The Last Seed

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

“Kelp” explores the hidden beauty and importance of the Great African Seaforest on South Africa's Western coastline, emphasizing its contributions to livelihoods, conservation, and cultural heritage while advocating for its sustainable management in the face of climate change.

“The Last Seed” is a close-up look at the challenges facing food and agriculture in 21st-century Africa, with a central focus on the control of seeds, while raising questions about lost values and the search for sustainable solutions, using music, dance, visuals, and the experiences of small-scale food producers and experts.



DAY 2 (October 27, Friday)



Short Film Entries

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Ranging in length from 6 minutes to 10 minutes, these brief documentaries cover a range of topics from “The Forgotten Forest” to “Redesigning the Wheel”.



Duty of Care – The Climate Trials

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Lawyer Roger Cox's pioneering legal actions against the Dutch government and Shell resulted in landmark climate rulings that sparked a global wave of climate cases, with a cast of characters and experts exploring the principles of justice in addressing humanity's greatest climate challenge.



Gardening Marine Forests: A Hands-on Approach to Restoration | Wild Hope – Coffee for Water

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

In “Gardening Marine Forests,” two marine scientists explore how a hands-on approach to marine restoration is reviving kelp forests in South Korea by emphasizing the deep connection between people and the ocean, showcasing inspiring examples of community involvement and sustainable practices.

“Coffee for Water” showcases the inspiring change-makers who are actively restoring and safeguarding the environment. With a focus on growing coffee to preserve Mozambican rainforests, this film emphasizes the power of local actions and offers a hopeful perspective.



Forest Partners

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

This documentary explores the symbiotic relationship between public and private organizations, local communities, and tropical forests, showcasing innovative solutions that blend technology and traditional knowledge to protect and sustainably manage these landscapes, with a focus on success stories from South America, Africa, and Asia.

Former eBay CTO and top tech leaders gathered for DEVCON PRO Summit 2023


Wazzup Pilipinas!?


DEVCON PRO Summit 2023 was the professional developer event of the year, bringing together a former eBay CTO and an impressive roster of tech leaders in the Philippines.

In celebration of innovation, impact, and technology, DEVCON PRO Summit 2023 brought together some of the brightest minds in the tech industry, including former eBay Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Tom Fisher. This summit is renowned as a premier event for professional developers seeking to harness the power of technology for positive impact.


DEVCON PRO Summit delivered an immersive experience for attendees, providing the opportunity to hear from thought leaders and changemakers utilizing technology to address real-world challenges. The event showcased cutting-edge topics designed to tackle social issues, offering professionals a chance to stay at the forefront of industry advancements. Some of the topics discussed include The Latest in Cybersecurity: How to Stay Ahead of the Curve, The Future of Work: How Will AI Change the Jobs of Developers?, The Making of a Tech Leader : The Skills and Experience you need to Thrive, How to Build Ethical AI: A Guide for Developers, and How to Make a Positive Impact on the World Through Technology


 

This year's theme, "Technology for Impact," reflected DEVCON's commitment to promoting the use of technology for positive societal change. The summit featured distinguished speakers, including the esteemed Tom Fisher, who has a rich international track record in developing and delivering high-tech solutions.


 

Tom Fisher, who has held leadership roles at eBay, Qualcomm, and SuccessFactors (now SAP), praised the DEVCON PRO Summit, calling it “a unique gathering that brings together professionals committed to leveraging technology for meaningful impact.” He added, "It's an honor to be part of an event that fosters innovation and collaboration in the tech community."

Winston Damarillo, Silicon Valley veteran, and the Founder and President of DEVCON Philippines, shared insights into the summit's focus: "As technology continues to evolve, it's crucial for professionals to come together, share knowledge, and explore ways to use their skills for the greater good. DEVCON PRO Summit is not just a conference; it's a platform for collaboration and inspiration."

This summit delved into a range of topics, including using emerging technologies. to solve social problems, the future of development in the age of artificial intelligence (AI), building inclusive and equitable technology ecosystems, and the ethical implications of AI. The goal was to provide a specialized program experience that catered to the unique interests and needs of professional developers.

DEVCON PRO Summit is co-presented by Accenture.


About DEVCON Philippines

DEVCON Philippines is a non-profit organization that has been empowering geeks for good for over 14 years. DEVCON is the Philippines' largest community and tech non-profit organization of technology experts, developers, and IT enthusiasts. Visit devcon.ph to learn more.

Website

devcon.ph


LinkedIn

linkedin.com/company/devconphilippines


Facebook

facebook.com/DEVCONPH


Instagram

instagram.com/devconph


X, formerly Twitter

twitter.com/devconph


TikTok

tiktok.com/@devconph




Panelists profile


Tom Fisher

Former Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at eBay, led technology teams at Qualcomm as CIO of CDMA technologies, and served as CIO and Vice President of Cloud Computing at SucessFactors (now SAP)

Tom Fisher is a senior executive with an accomplished international track record in developing, implementing, and delivering high-tech solutions. He has held leadership positions at eBay, Qualcomm, and SuccessFactors (now SAP). Tom is a proven business developer with a creative, industry-leading vision.



Winston Damarillo

Founder and President of DEVCON Philippines

Silicon Valley veteran with three successful startup exits, a former venture capitalist at Intel Capital, and a Young Global Leader of the World Economic Forum (WEF)

Proven serial entrepreneur with a track record of building and selling successful technology startups to major IT players, including Gluecode Software, Logicblaze, and Webtide. He is also a visionary tech leader and a passionate advocate for innovation and growth in the Philippine tech community. Additionally, he has been recognized for his achievements by the World Economic Forum and De La Salle University.



Arvin Yason

Managing Director, Accenture

Global IT Delivery Senior Executive

Arvin Yason, a seasoned IT leader with over two decades of experience, currently serves as the Managing Director at Accenture. He specializes in driving innovation in various technology domains, including Analytics, IoT, Artificial Intelligence, and Human-Centric Design. Arvin's expertise spans a wide range of areas, from communications and billing to customer care and automation, making him a valuable asset in the IT industry.



Dr. Julie Banatao

Part of DIWATA-2 Dev Team

Science Research Specialist, Phil Space Agency

PhD in Aerospace Engineering

Dr. Julie Banatao, a member of the DIWATA-2 Dev Team and a Science Research Specialist at the Philippine Space Agency, serves as the Systems Engineer and technical lead for the MULA satellite project. With a PhD in Aerospace Engineering from Tohoku University, Japan, and a background in Electronics and Communications Engineering from the University of the Philippines Diliman, she ensures the successful operation of MULA in orbit by coordinating satellite subsystems and meeting system standards.



Doc Ligot

CTO at Cirrolytix, a social impact AI company AI Ethics Advocate

Founder, Data Ethics PH

Doc Ligot is the CTO at Cirrolytix, a social impact AI company, and an AI Ethics Advocate. He is the Founder of Data Ethics PH and is on a mission to make AI understandable and responsible for all. With a diverse background as a data analyst, researcher, software developer, and technologist, Doc champions data literacy, AI safety, data ethics, and social impact. His work spans human rights, public health, food security, political risk, and combating disinformation through computational social science, AI, and data engineering. He's received numerous awards for his contributions, including the Geospatial Innovation Award in 2023 and recognition from UNICEF Innovation Fund.

FDCP, Tatino Films open call for Southeast Asian projects for Full Circle Lab PH


Wazzup Pilipinas!?


To provide opportunities for filmmakers to elevate their film projects to their highest potential and reach international standards, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and Tatino Films open call for applications for Full Circle Lab Philippines’ (FCL PH) 6th edition to be held in March 2024.

Full Circle Lab Philippines is a capacity-building program aimed at supporting Filipino and Southeast Asian filmmakers. Through conducting various film labs ranging from the stages of pre-production to post-production, the program enhances selected projects and participants to encompass the diverse voices and cultures within Southeast Asia.

Full Circle Lab Philippines is open to filmmakers from the Philippines and Southeast Asian countries: Brunei, Cambodia, East Timor, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore,Thailand, and Vietnam.






The program’s four film labs are as follows:

● Fiction Lab - eight (8) projects in development (feature films, series, animation)

● Creative Producers Lab - eight (8) producers with or without project/s in development

● Story Editing Lab - three (3) script editors

● First Cut Lab - three (3) projects in post-production (feature films and documentaries)

Fiction Lab

The Fiction Lab is the central lab of the program that focuses on the development of original and world-class film projects. It welcomes eight (8) projects at various stages of development with formats ranging from feature films, series, and animation.

This lab is composed of a script consultant and a production consultant for each group of four projects. The director/writer and producer of each project must attend all Fiction Lab sessions.

Creative Producers Lab

Recognizing the essential role of a creative producer in enhancing the production value of films, the Creative Producers Lab welcomes eight (8) producers who will receive mentorship on the key areas of production: project development, legal and financial issues, and company development.

Producers with or without affiliation to production companies are eligible to apply.



Story Editing Lab

The Story Editing Lab aims to train film professionals who are capable of accompanying authors and directors in the creative process of scriptwriting. This lab is open to aspiring script consultants, scriptwriters, heads of development in production companies, or commissioning editors of broadcasters.

Three (3) selected participants shall work hand-in-hand with the Fiction Lab, with one Story Editing Lab participant per Fiction Lab group. They will also receive training from mentors specializing in script development and production.



First Cut Lab

The First Cut Lab is a comprehensive training and consultancy program supporting feature films and documentaries at the editing stage. It aims to help creative teams in achieving their artistic vision and potential for international circulation.

Three (3) projects will receive expert advice from editor consultants and industry advisors chosen according to the specific needs of each project. The director and editor of each selected project must also attend the whole duration of the First Cut Lab.

After the workshop, First Cut Lab participants will receive a memo report that can serve as guidance for further editing. Moreover, an online follow-up session will take place around 6 weeks after the workshop where participants will receive feedback on their film cuts.

Fiction Lab, Creative Producers Lab, and Story Editing Lab applications are open until November 24, 2023. Meanwhile, First Cut Lab has two deadlines: documentary requirements must be submitted on or before December 8, 2023, while film cuts must be submitted by February 1, 2024.

Selected projects and participants will be announced by February 2024 while the lineup of industry experts who will serve as mentors will be released soon.

To check the complete guidelines and list of requirements, visit FCL PH’s Facebook page.

Launched in 2019, the Full Circle Lab Philippines was designed by Tatino Films’ CEO Matthieu Darras in collaboration with the FDCP. To date, almost 200 film professionals and more than 80 film projects have undergone FCL PH under the mentorship of esteemed international advisors and industry experts from Southeast Asia, Europe, South Africa, and Latin America among others.

Stay tuned to FCL PH’s and FDCP’s social media pages for more news and updates.

Thursday, October 19, 2023

5 Strategies For Teaching Social-Emotional Lessons

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



Teaching comprehensive social-emotional classes within the study room is critical for college students' fulfillment in faculty and life. By deliberately helping students broaden self-recognition, self-management, social attention, dating abilities, and responsible decision-making, you equip them with crucial abilities needed to navigate lifestyle challenges and thrive.

However, efficaciously teaching social-emotional getting to know calls for willpower, time, proactive plans, and constant implementation of the right techniques. In this very significant article, we are able to deeply explore 5 validated, rather powerful techniques for coaching multilayered social-emotional training.

By reflecting on those strategies and making use of them diligently in your classroom, you may cultivate assured, concerned, and responsible college students ready to flourish academically, individually, and as international citizens.




1. Implement Engaging Social-Emotional Learning Activities

A diverse array of social and emotional learning worksheets, lesson plans, and activity books are available both online and offline to reinforce the competencies students need.

Highly interactive, well-designed exercises teach students to accurately identify and label emotions in themselves and others with nuance. In addition, it teaches us to take others' perspectives, positively resolve conflicts, set goals and prioritize effectively, manage stress through positive self-care strategies, show kindness, and make wise, ethical decisions.

Escape rooms, strategically created board games, expressive arts and crafts projects, theater exercises, and in-depth role-playing activities make learning engaging, enjoyable, and memorable. Choose activities thoughtfully aligned to your specific curriculum goals and the particular social-emotional needs of your students.

Tailor activities to connect with their interests, cultures, and preferred learning modalities when possible. Spending 15-20 minutes daily on focused, reflective social-emotional learning activities can profoundly enrich their competencies, especially when you model enthusiasm and participation.



2. Model Desired Skills And Attitudes Daily

Actions, as they say, speak louder than words. One of the most powerful ways you can teach social-emotional lessons is by consciously modeling the attitudes, behaviors, and skills you want students to develop every day. For instance, if you want students to be respectful, make sure you speak respectfully to them and others at all times.

Use a calm, empathetic tone, actively listen without interrupting, validate and build upon their perspectives, and foster inclusive discussions. If you want them to be organized, keep an orderly, neat, and efficient classroom space and be prepared and punctual for each lesson. Have well-designed lesson plan materials ready in advance and transition smoothly between activities.

When you inevitably fall short in an area, as all humans do, humbly acknowledge it, sincerely apologize if needed, reflect on how to improve and refocus on being your best self. Your actions don't have to be perfect as an educator, but they should align with the values and competencies you're teaching as much as possible.

Students are constantly observing and learning from your example.




3. Facilitate Insightful Class Discussions


Class discussions often targeted on social-emotional topics provide priceless possibilities to make connections, share various perspectives, and increase self-attention. You can spark deep, positive speech by discussing impactful modern-day occasions associated with social troubles or feelings. Moreover, carefully curated motion pictures showcasing compassion or perseverance, multifaceted hypothetical scenarios relevant to students' lives, and considerate reflective prompts inspire vulnerability and increase mindsets.

Please inspire college students to think critically and articulate their minds, reactions, emotions, reports, and beliefs with nuance and care. Consider their developmental stages and any sensitivities. Ensure all college students feel secure to participate overtly by means of maintaining confidentiality and upholding clear hints for respectful, nonjudgmental interactions.

If touchy issues arise, deal with them with compassion, awareness, and open-mindedness. Guide college students to see change viewpoints through differing lenses whilst honoring their emotions. When students connect meaningfully, feel authentically heard, benefit from new views, and analyze each differently, it builds community, empathy, resilience, and emotional intelligence.




4. Make Reflection a Consistent Priority

Regular mirrored image fosters deeper self-know-how, facilitates college students to fully technique emotions, and cement social-emotional getting to know. That's why it has to be constructed into instructions always. Provide adequate centered time for individual reflection via reflective journaling prompts, self-evaluation rubrics, nuanced feeling charts, and "headline information" summaries of insights won.

Also, incorporate substantial pair stocks, small organization discussions, and complete magnificence reflections unpacking bigger takeaways. Guide students to mirror without a doubt new ideas, express and evaluate complex feelings, and pinpoint specific cognitive and behavioral boom points or regions desiring development.

Be certain to thoughtfully version reflective practices yourself by sharing your social-emotional takeaways when appropriate. Keep reflections constructive, boundary-conscious, and answers-focused. When made ongoing precedence, meaningful established reflection facilitates college students to combine social-emotional standards into their self-identity and makes gaining knowledge endure.





5. Give Encouraging, Specific Positive Feedback

Sincere, descriptive encouragement and praise are effective intrinsic motivators that assist scholar conduct, self-idea, and identity. Make it a regular practice to give superb feedback whilst you study social-emotional abilities. Notice times when a pupil confirmed exemplary willpower, wholesome courting capabilities, kindness to others, advantageous initiative, true judgment, or any value you've got focused on.

Comment specifically on the precise conduct, character trait, or competency they displayed and the tremendous impact you discovered. These remarks show the scholar you are paying close interest to and support the attitudes and capabilities you're cultivating.

Your phrases can assist a scholar to see themselves in a new light and spur their persevered boom and leadership in that region. The extra distinctive and applicable your praise, the extra the motivational influence.




Conclusion


Teaching multifaceted social-emotional instructions requires determination, aim, proactive plans, and constant implementation of evidence-based strategies. Consciously model favored attitudes and behaviors daily. Facilitate normal insightful discussions, make social-emotional getting to know particularly enticing and personalized, provide frequent reflective opportunities, and supply encouraging precise comments. These engagements will profoundly increase socially aware, assured, concerned, and accountable college students equipped to thrive.

They will advantage of important abilities to correctly navigate life's private, instructional, expert, and civic-demanding situations. With your considerate steering and dedication to social-emotional boom, your students can flourish academically and in my opinion, create a high-quality exchange.

ArenaPlus is now the Official Sportsbook Partner of East Asia Super League


Wazzup Pilipinas!?



ArenaPlus, your 24/7 sports betting app, scores another big win in sports as it proudly announced it is now the official sportsbook partner in the Philippines for the East Asia Super League (EASL), the premier basketball league in East Asia.

Founded in 2016 and beginning its Philippines operations in March 2023, the EASL aims to bring together top men's basketball club teams from Greater China, Japan, Korea, and the Philippines to compete in a home-and-away regional championship that elevates the sport in the region.

The country's top-tier PBA teams like TNT Tropang Giga and Meralco Bolts represent the Philippines in the league that also showcase the talents of notable Filipino players like GILAS talents Roger Pogoy, Calvin Oftana and Chris Newsome.

“ArenaPlus firmly believes this partnership with EASL marks a significant milestone for the brand because it brings high-quality global basketball directly to Filipino fans. The brand's core mission is to provide an enjoyable platform fans and enthusiasts to appreciate sports more deeply than ever before by making it truly entertaining and fun for them. This mission now becomes truly achievable with the brand’s growing partnerships. ArenaPlus is fully committed to establishing more connections with various other sports leagues because we aim to spread boundless joy in the world of sports anytime and anywhere,” Jasper Vicencio, president of Total Gamezone Xtreme Inc., ArenaPlus’ mother company, said.

The East Asia Super League group series started October 11 in Japan and games are available for viewing on Cignal TV One Sports and OTT streaming platform Pilipinas Live.

DOST-SEI celebrates 3rd Project STAR International Conference


Wazzup Pilipinas!?


The researchers and educators shined their brightest as they illuminate the pathway towards advancing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and improving teacher professional development through the 3rd Project Science Teacher Academy for the Regions (STAR) International Conference.

The Project STAR International Conference brings together researchers, public school teachers, educational trainers from various regions of the country, and international educators to foster comprehensive discussions on the current landscape and future trajectory of local and international STEM education.

Spearheaded by the Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI), the annual project consists of series of plenary presentations and parallel workshops, and features research papers and STAR stories of STEM innovations.

This year’s 3rd Project STAR International Conference, for example, features compelling stories of STEM innovations from “Engaging Generation Z Learners in the New Normal Through Thinktok,” “Development of an Improvised Portable Atomic Spectroscope for Teaching Element Fingerprinting,” and “Ethnobiology-based Instruction in Enhancing Cross-Cultural Competence in Biology” to plenary talks from international STEM leaders from Hong Kong, Singapore, London, and the USA.


Cover photo Caption:

DOST-SEI Director Dr. Josette T. Biyo, in her opening remarks, welcomes foreign and local guests, and promises educators the Institute’s renewed and unwavering commitment to supporting science and mathematics education.

A plenitude of the brightest STARS, impactful researches, and endless opportunities

With the theme, “Project STAR @ 10: Celebrating Gains of the Past, Exploring Opportunities of the Future,” DOST-SEI Director Josette T. Biyo highlighted the project’s endeavor and fervent dedication in advancing science and mathematics education in the country with her talk titled, “Project STAR: Journey Across Time.”

She took the audience on a spirited tour of Project STAR’s breakthrough, reminiscing about its journey from its modest beginnings to modern excellence. Her presentation showcased the projects’ activities and accomplishments - including the various training and innovative teaching strategies it conducted, activities like Search for the Brightest STARS which aims to discover and recognize talented teachers from the training, and the collaborations established through its benchmarking activities in countries like Hongkong, Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan - all of which, over the years, serve as the fundamental cornerstone to improve capacity and content knowledge to educators.

As she concluded her talk, she acknowledged and expressed her sincerest gratitude to the many people behind Project STAR’s success - such as the Department of Education, its regional partner institutions, and the teachers it has trained and produced.


Caption:

Dr. Sheryl Lyn Monterola, Director of the University of the Philippines National Institute for Science and Mathematics Education Development (UP NISMED) discussed a new way of looking at STEM as an entrepreneurial tool for national development, in her talk titled “21st Century Teaching: Adapting to a Fast-Changing World.”

The second plenary session was presented by the Director of the University of the Philippines National Institute for Science and Mathematics Education Development (UP NISMED), Dr. Sheryl Lyn C. Monterola. Her talk titled, “21st Century Teaching: Adapting to a Fast-Changing World” alluded to the event’s theme of exploring opportunities of the future, as she delivered a comprehensive discussion on a new way of looking at STEM as a proxy for the skills and tools that equip learners the right mindset to contribute to national development.

According to Dr. Monterola, there are three key points on how to leverage the use of STEM in teaching: (1) recognizing numeracy as an essential skill in the workplace, (2) responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in STEM education, and (3) importance of STEM teachers’ growth mindset. Besides these, she also mentioned modern teaching/learning aids such as Copilot, Perplexity, and summarize.tech which could help educators in lesson planning and context building.

To complete the roster of plenary sessions for day one, Prof. Cecilia K.Y. Chan, Founding Director of the Teaching and Learning Innovation Centre, and a Professor of the Faculty of Education at the University of Hong Kong, facilitated the discussion on “Transitioning Perspectives: Shifting from ‘Assessment of’ to ‘Assessment for’” via Zoom. In her talk, Prof. Chan discussed the dynamic nature of assessment in revolutionizing teaching methods to remain agile and responsive to future shifts in the educational landscape.

She also shared her extensive ideas on the different aspects of assessment and the concept of holistic competence, emphasizing that to achieve a balance of the two, teachers must focus on and make use of the wide range of assessments and integrate different strategies for assessing student learning.

Before day one ended, thirty parallel paper presentations on Action Researches, Assessment and Innovations, Instructional Materials, Teaching and Learning Innovations, and Wellness and Action Researches were presented allowing teachers all over the country to showcase their work in STEM education. Furthermore, it opened avenues to gain valuable insights, learn about the latest advancements in STEM education, and interact with their fellow educators.

Days two and three of the conference were jam-packed with thought-provoking plenary sessions facilitated by Dr. Tang Wee Teo, Associate Professor at the National Institute of Education of Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, on “Impacting STEM Education in Asia: Experiences from meriSTEM;” Prof. Rosemary Luckin, Faculty at the University College London, and Founder of Educate Ventures Research Ltd. in London, on “Artificial Intelligence, Adaptive (Machine Learning), and the Future of Education;” Mr. Bryan Goodwin, Chief Executive Officer at McREL International, on “Brain Science and Cognition;” and Dr. Jayeel S. Cornelio, Professor of Development Studies Program at the Ateneo de Manila University, and Vice Chair of the Social Sciences Division at the National Research Council of the Philippines, on “The State of Filipino Youth: Harnessing Opportunities for Education.”

DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr. also graced the event and extended his congratulations to the STAR member schools, partners in education, and participants. He reiterated and encouraged Project STAR’s mission to capacitate STEM teachers all over the country through activities that catalyze professional development such as training, recognition, awards, and mentorship.

“This is an opportunity to celebrate our achievements in science education - to live the spirit of inquiry, creativity, problem-solving, and life-long learning; and to bring STEM out of the classroom and into the community, and help people appreciate the significance of STEM in their everyday lives.”

This year’s Project STAR International Conference was held on August 23-25, 2023, at the New World Makati Hotel, Makati City.

Project STAR is a cluster of capacity building activities aimed to improve the quality of teaching of STEM teachers all over the country - implementing innovative STEM trainings and activities that catalyze professional development for teachers such as awards, recognition, mentorship, and research conducts.


Caption:

Parallel Sessions on Action Researches, Assessment and Innovations, Instructional Materials, Teaching and Learning Innovations, and Wellness and Action Researches were held to give STAR educators a diversified offering of knowledge and experiences in the different aspects of teaching and learning.

Battling a silent health crisis in the Philippines


Wazzup Pilipinas!?



How can you protect our children?

A staggering 83% of Filipino children aged 5-12 years old are affected by cavities.

Over the years, a silent health crisis continues to affect the lives of millions of Filipino children, going undetected by parents and teachers due to a lack of awareness and information. Dental cavities, unseen yet harmful, have led to “missing smiles” and have also greatly affected the well-being of these children, leading to absenteeism and hindering them from performing their daily activities.

The recent National Survey on Oral Health of the Department of Health showed that poor oral health has negatively affected children’s social interactions and academic performances. A staggering 83% of children aged 5-12 years old are struggling because of this.



 

Cavities can cause a physical and psychosocial impact on the lives of children in the Philippines.

Dental issues caused by cavities lead to sleep interruptions, physical inconveniences such as dry mouth and difficulty eating, and a psychosocial impact among children. The Department of Health emphasized the role of parents, teachers, and communities in preventing and addressing this massive health issue.

Recognizing the impact of the dental health crisis on children and their families, Colgate, the Philippines’ partner and ally in superior oral health, is working closely with the Department of Education and Local Government Units to address the silent health crisis. The company is optimistic that while millions of children globally are impacted by the silent health crisis, there are various ways to prevent it and reduce the number of those affected. Believing that “Everyone Deserves a Future They Can Smile About”, Colgate continues to work for a brighter, smiling Philippines through the Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures® program, and with best-in-class oral health solutions.

Colgate’s Bright Smiles, Bright Futures® (BSBF) program has touched the lives of more than a billion children in over 80 countries around the world. In the Philippines, BSBF has reached 40 million school children in the past 25 years. Since 1997, the program has reached 37,000 public schools and 700 daycare centers across 319 cities and municipalities.

With the help of the government, BSBF pledges to improve the oral health of Filipinos and work towards eliminating cavities. By instilling them with effective habits, such as brushing their teeth at least 2 times a day with a fluoride toothpaste like Colgate Maximum Cavity Protection, proper and regular application of fluoride, and regular dental check-ups, Colgate aspires a future wherein majority of the Filipino children are cavity-free by the age of 10.

“As a global brand with deeply rooted partnerships and connections with Filipino families, we are maximizing our platform and resources to shift the country’s focus on the ongoing health crisis while encouraging a collective movement to address the problem of cavities, especially among children. Through our BSBF program and Colgate Maximum Cavity Protection, we are given the opportunity to reach the entire Philippines and give each child a chance for a brighter future to smile about. Colgate is more than just an oral health brand—we are the country’s partner in working towards our goal of achieving a cavity-free Philippines,” says Anish Agarwal, Senior Marketing Director, Colgate Palmolive Philippines Inc.

Throughout the nation, BSBF has orchestrated toothbrushing drills led by dental professionals for school children. During these sessions, the children receive Colgate toothpaste and toothbrushes while learning the correct brushing techniques.

Additionally, BSBF conducts interactive and enjoyable educational sessions on oral health, utilizing creative storytelling tools and demonstrations like puppet shows that leave a lasting impression on the children. Complementing these are activities such as fluoride application and other fun educational activities that engage the children, their teachers, and families.

To better understand this silent health crisis and how to prevent it, watch Colgate's Missing Smiles video through this link, a short but moving story capturing how cavities can deeply affect children’s lives if they do not get the immediate help they need.



About Colgate

Colgate Philippines has been dedicated to ensuring Filipino families have a bright future they can smile about for more than nine decades. As the undisputed leader in oral care, Colgate’s commitment goes beyond just products. Driven by an unwavering dedication to sustainability, corporate social responsibility, and innovation, Colgate continually strives to elevate the lives of their consumers, leading them towards a future they can smile about.

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Find out which Off-Road Bike is the right one for you


Wazzup Pilipinas!?



From beginner to advanced, there’s a CRF model that will suit your needs.


Honda motorcycles are undoubtedly experts in Motocross racing having been part of the Off-Road circuit sport for more than 50 years. In fact, Team Honda recently won the 2023 AMA Supercross championship, making the company’s iconic bikes one of the best in the world.

To commemorate this, Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI), the No.1 motorcycle manufacturer in the country, is offering competition bikes. These are The All-New CRF150R, The All-New CRF250R, and The All-New CRF450R designed for Motocross riders.

On the other hand, The All-New CRF125F, and The New CRF250RX are meant for trail riders.

What’s more, these motorcycles are designed and engineered to offer outstanding performance to Filipino Off-Road enthusiasts of every skill level. This means whether you’re a novice or an expert rider, there’s a CRF motorcycle that’s ideal for you. But what exactly sets each model apart from each other?


Motocross Bikes that keep you ahead of the pack


CRF150R


For first time motocross riders, the company introduces the All-New CRF150R. The All-New CRF150R is equipped with a 150cc Liquid-Cooled, 4-Valve, 4-Stroke, Unicam Single engine capable of delivering outstanding yet controlled power, making the bike perfect for first-time Motocross riders. Likewise, the bike’s 19-inch Front and 16-inch rear Off-Road wheels and tires, and 37mm Upside Down front suspension by Showa works in harmony with its 220mm Front, and 190mm Rear Disc Brakes to give riders maximum control. And when you pair all these elements with its 336mm ground clearance and 866mm seat height you have the perfect Motocross bike for Filipinos who are just getting into the sport.


CRF250R


For more experienced riders or those who want to get into legitimate Motocross competition, The All-New CRF250R is what you need. This bike, with its 249cc Liquid-Cooled, 4-Stroke, Single DOHC engine, is designed to take on more challenging Motocross circuits. It’s also equipped with exclusive HRC launch control to help assist riders from a standing start to achieve the right hole shot. This allows the rider to open the throttle fully and release the clutch while engine management keeps the RPM at an ideal range for optimum acceleration.

Moreover, The All-New CRF250R also features an Engine Mode Select button that lets you choose what ride mode suits you best, giving you a competitive edge come race day. Meanwhile, its 49mm Upside Down Showa Front Forks and Showa Pro-Link Rear Suspension enables the bike to soak up any bumps and dips with ease.

This bike also utilizes a strong yet lightweight chassis in combination with 260mm Front and 240mm Rear Hydraulic Wave Disc brakes. These engineered elements deliver maximum control even when tackling demanding Motocross circuits.


CRF450R


Now if you’re an even more experienced rider who wants to take their Motocross racing abilities to the next level, The All-New CRF450R is just for you. This bike is engineered with Honda’s Motocross heritage in mind, and is powered by a 450cc Liquid-Cooled, 4-Stroke, Single Cylinder, SOHC engine. This engine is designed to work harmoniously with the bike’s new Showa 49mm Inverted Telescopic front, and Showa Adjustable Pro-Link rear suspension. When combined with its 2-piston caliper front and 1-piston caliper rear disc brakes, and HRC Launch Control, you get a Motocross bike that will truly let you dominate the competition.

These bikes are the same as the competition versions of the CRF250R and the CRF450R. What’s more, the latter won the 2023 AMA Pro Motocross 450 Championship and the inaugural 2023 SuperMotocross 450 Championship, with Jett Lawrence as its rider, while the former won the 2023 AMA Pro Motocross National Championship with Hunter Lawrence in the driver’s seat. This means whether you choose The All-New CRF250 or The All-New CRF450R, you’re sure to get that legendary Honda Racing pedigree.

Trail Bikes for total Off-Road adventures

HPI also acknowledges that there are a growing number of Filipino riders who are more into trail riding. For these individuals, HPI offers The All-New CRF125F and The New CRF250RX.


CRF125F


The All-New CRF125F is the bike you need if you’re looking to jump-start your passion for trail riding. This bike features all the design elements you expect from a legitimate Off-Road enduro bike including a longer, more comfortable seat, prominent mud guards, and 19-inch Front and 16-inch Rear Off-Road ready wheels and tires. However, the unit comes with a 785mm Seat Height and 260mm Ground Clearance making it ideal for beginners particularly younger riders. The bike also gets a 125cc Air-Cooled, Single Cylinder, 4-Stroke, SOHC, 2-Valve engine and 31mm Telescopic Front, and Pro-Link Rear Suspension.

These features give you exceptional performance and riding comfort to take on any Off-Road trail with confidence.


CRF250RX


For more experienced trail riding enthusiasts, HPI offers The New CRF250RX. This bike is packed with the same awesome features as its motocross-specific sibling,
 
The All-New CRF250R. These include HRC Launch Control, the 249cc Liquid-Cooled, 4-Stroke, Single Cylinder, DOHC engine, 49mm Upside Down Showa Front Forks and Showa Pro-Link Rear Suspension, and the front and rear Hydraulic Wave Disc brakes. These factors ensure you get the same outstanding performance and handling control with the enduro-style bike as on its Motocross variant.

The New CRF250RX gets an 8-liter fuel tank. This gives The New CRF250RX the ability to go for longer distances in between refueling - a must for enduro riding. It is also equipped with 21-inch Front and 18-inch Rear off-road tires for maximum grip when riding through your favorite Off-Road trail.

The CRF series comes at various price points. For motocross bikes, The All-New CRF150R can be yours for PhP306,000.00 while The All-New CRF250R is priced at PhP459,000.00 and The All-New CRF450R can be yours for PhP500,000.00. For the trail bikes, The All-New CRF125F retails for PhP189,000.00 while The New CRF250RX is priced at Php469,000.00.

With the CRF competition bikes, experiencing an Off-Road adventure with the right motorcycle is now a reality. The CRF series promises to have a bike that’s suited to what each rider needs.

For more information, visit www.hondaph.com. Stay updated on Honda’s newest products and promos by following Honda Philippines, Inc. on Facebook and Instagram (@hondaph_mc), Youtube (@hondaphilippines_motorcycl8048) and Tiktok (tiktok.com/@hondaphilippines) or contact (02)-8581-6700 to 6799, and 0917-884-6632.

Akbayan Youth condemned the tragic death of student by hazing


Wazzup Pilipinas!?


Akbayan Youth condemned the tragic death by hazing of Ahldryn Lery Chua Bravante, a young criminology student from Imus, Cavite.
"If authorities cannot protect young people from frat hazing, what more from abuse from a mandatory ROTC program? Mandatory ROTC will mean mandatory exposure to abuse and violence like hazing," Akbayan! Youth Chairperson Justine Balane said.

"Imagine the sorrow of parents who send their son to school in hopes of a better future, only to lose them to a senseless culture of violence such as hazing. The threat of hazing-related violence under ROTC is real as we learned from the cases of students hurt in PUP and La Salle in 2014 and Tagum in 2016," Balane said.

Bravante's killing is the second reported hazing-related death this year.

"Every day that the Mandatory ROTC is not dropped from the Senate priorities is a day where we lure our young in harm's way. Senators shouldn't wait for an ROTC-related death, similar to Mark Welson Chua's case, before they act," he added.

Mark Welson Chua was a student of ROTC in the University of Sto Tomas in 2001 who uncovered corruption issues in the program and was killed by fellow cadet officers because of it. His death led to the replacement of the ROTC with the National Service Training Program.

"The Senate can — and should — prevent the deaths of more students by dropping the Mandatory ROTC bill," he said.

Impact Of Cold Wеathеr On Various Inground Swimming Pool Typеs


Wazzup Pilipinas!?




As winter's chill creeps in, pool owners face unique challenges. The plummeting temperatures can significantly impact different types of inground swimming pools, from traditional concrete to modern fiberglass designs.

In this post, you will learn about the impact of cold weather on various types of swimming pools, like fiberglass pools, concrete pools, and others. Not only that, you can also find valuable insights to help you safeguard your investment and enjoy your swimming pool all year round.
Fibеrglass Pools: Thе Cold Wеathеr Champions

Fibеrglass inground swimming pools arе rеnownеd for thеir ability to withstand cold wеathеr conditions. Their smooth, non-porous surfaces аrе lеss susceptible to freezing and cracking compared to other materials.



Hеrе's a dеtailеd look at how fibеrglass pools farе in cold climatеs:


1. Insulation:

Fiberglass pools come with excellent insulation propеrtiеs. Their gel-coated surfaces provide natural insulation, helping to retain heat even in frigid tеmpеraturеs. This means you can еnjoy a longеr swim sеason in coldеr rеgions without incurring high hеating costs.


2. Low Maintеnancе:

Fiberglass pools require minimum maintenance in cold weather. Their non-porous surfacе is rеsistant to algaе growth and staining, reducing the need for frequent cleaning. This makеs thеm a practical choice for busy homеownеrs in chilly climatеs.


3. Durability:

Fibеrglass pools arе constructеd as a singlе piеcе, making thеm highly durablе. They're lеss prone to cracking and shifting due to frееzing and thawing cyclеs. This durability еnsurеs your pool will last through multiple harsh wintеrs.


4. Quick Installation:

Fiberglass pools arе prе-fabricated and delivered to your site, making installation quickеr than other pool types. This means you can еnjoy your pool soonеr and extend the swimming season in colder months.

 
Concrеtе Pools: A Mixеd Bag in Cold Climatеs

Concrеtе pools arе a popular choice due to their customization options and durability. Howеvеr, they require extra carе in cold climatеs:


1. Frееzing and Thawing:

Concrеtе pools are susceptible to cracking during freezing and thawing cyclеs. Propеr wintеrization and maintеnancе arе crucial to prеvеnt damagе. This includes draining watеr bеlow thе skimmеr and using a pool covеr.

 
2. Insulation:

Concrеtе pools lack thе natural insulation provided by fibеrglass pools. As a result, they tend to losе hеat morе quickly, lеading to highеr hеating costs. Using еnеrgy-efficient pool heaters and covers can help mitigatе this issue.

 
3. Maintеnancе:

Concrete pools demand regular maintenance, including rеsurfacing and rеtiling. In cold climatеs, the frequency of thеsе tasks may increase due to the harsh wеathеr conditions.
Vinyl Linеr Pools: Cold Wеathеr Considеrations

Vinyl liner pools offer a cost-effective alternative to concrеtе and fibеrglass. Thеy havе thеir pros and cons in cold climatеs:



1. Vulnеrability To Wear & Tеars:

Vinyl linеrs can bе vulnеrablе to tеars and puncturеs in frееzing tеmpеraturеs. Care must be taken when closing and opening thе pool to avoid damagе. Proper winterization is essential.

 
2. Insulation:

Similar to concrеtе pools, vinyl liner pools lack thе inhеrеnt insulation of fibеrglass. As a result, they may lose heat more rapidly, necessitating the use of еnеrgy-efficient heaters and pool covers.

 
3. Lifеspan:

Vinyl liners nееd rеplacеmеnt еvеry 5-10 years. In cold climatеs, thе harsh conditions can somеtimеs lеad to a shortеr lifеspan, adding to long-term costs.

 
Final Words

Whilе еach inground pool typе has its mеrits, fibеrglass pools stand out as thе bеst choicе for cold climatеs. Thеy offеr supеrior insulation, low maintеnancе, and durability, making thеm an excellent option for those sееking to enjoy their pool yеar-round.

Howеvеr, with propеr carе and maintеnancе, concrеtе and vinyl linеr pools can also be suitable for cold wеathеr rеgions.

Rеmеmbеr that the choice of pool type should align with your specific needs, budgеt, and thе sеvеrity оf thе climate in your area.

By understanding the impact of cold wеathеr on different inground pool types, you can makе an informed decision that ensures yеar-round swimming еnjoymеnt.



When Is The Right Time To Switch To Adult Diapers?


Wazzup Pilipinas!?




Aging is often an uncomfortable experience for many people. As people age, they experience drastic changes in their lives that they would not have expected before.

Of the many changes people experience as they grow older, incontinence is the most common. Dealing with incontinence can be a stressful experience for an adult. However, with the best help, you can navigate incontinence while still maintaining your dignity.

This article highlights the challenges of incontinence, understanding adult diapers, when to consider switching to adult diapers, and the benefits of wearing incontinence pants.


The Incontinence Stress

Incontinence is a condition where an individual has difficulty controlling their bladder and bowel movements. If you are experiencing such challenges, then you are not alone.

Research indicates that over a third of adults in the US suffer from incontinence at one point or another. The condition is even more prominent in older adults and could arise from a variety of causes, such as age or disease.

Adults who are battling incontinence often complain of the taboo associated with the condition. However, with the availability of adult pull on, the condition can be handled effectively.


Understanding Adult Diapers

Adult diapers are one of the incontinence products used for the absorption of fluids. These diapers come in different varieties.

However, the best one for effective absorption and comfort is adult pull on diapers. Pull-on diapers resemble your regular underwear. They are easy to wear, as all you need to do is to pull them up and enjoy the snuggly fit.

Adult diapers can last for a long time without needing frequent washroom breaks. In fact, some of the best adult diapers are designed with a super-absorbent polymer capable of extra absorption.

So, with adult pull-on diapers, comfort and convenience seamlessly intertwine, offering a reliable solution that lets you focus on life's moments without worry.


When To Consider Adult Diapers

In the realm of adult care, the timely consideration of adult diapers isn't just a matter of practicality; it's a proactive step towards ensuring comfort and maintaining dignity.

The best time to consider using adult diapers is as soon as you realize that you might be having incontinence issues. Your physician would be in the best position to tell you whether adult diapers will be necessary for you or not.

Adults who have mobility issues and might face a challenge going to the bathroom can benefit from adult diapers to ease the burden.


The Benefits Of Using Adult Diapers

Embracing the use of adult diapers brings forth a myriad of benefits that extend beyond mere practicality. For starters, adult diapers keep you comfortable all day long. Whether you are engaged in your daily activities or wearing it overnight, adult diapers can keep you dry and comfortable without needing to change them frequently.

The psychological burden that incontinence can impose on individuals is significant. However, with the reliable shield of high-quality adult diapers, one can bid farewell to the stress and worry about clothing mishaps. These discreet companions allow individuals to navigate their daily routines confidently without the looming concerns of stains or odors, providing a sense of normalcy and peace of mind.

Adult diapers play an important role in preserving one’s dignity and discreetness. By providing an almost invisible and discreet solution, adult diapers empower individuals to avoid the societal taboo associated with incontinence and live without fearing judgment.


How To Choose The Right Adult Diaper For Your Needs

Now that you know the importance of using an adult diaper and when you should start thinking about getting one, it is important to highlight what factors you should consider when choosing a diaper.

At the top of the list of factors to consider when choosing adult diapers is size. You need an adult diaper that is a perfect fit for your body. An adult diaper that is too tight might be too uncomfortable while a loose one might leak.

Secondly, you should prioritize the absorbency level of the adult diaper. Ideally, you want a diaper that will absorb all the moisture without letting you feel discomfort. Choose the one that will allow you to navigate your day with ease.

Finally, you should look at the odor-control properties of the diaper. Nobody wants to be in a situation where their diaper is in place, yet there is an unpleasant smell. A top-quality adult diaper manages incontinence discreetly and ensures that any potential odor is contained. Thus allowing you to move through your day with confidence.


Final Thoughts

Adult diapers are the best solution for individuals suffering from incontinence. If you want to navigate your everyday life easily and confidently, consider buying the best adult diapers from a reputable vendor.

The top-quality diaper will allow you to maintain your dignity while avoiding the taboo and stress that comes with it.

Embark on a journey of comfort, confidence, and convenience—get your adult diapers today and unlock the myriad benefits that come with it.



Wildlife Photography Tours: Why Spain Should Be Your Next Photo Tour


Wazzup Pilipinas!?




Arе you an avid wildlifе photographеr constantly in sеarch of nеw, uniquе subjеcts for your portfolio?

Although thе world is fillеd with photogеnic dеstinations, Spain is a hiddеn gеm waiting to be discovered by adventurous photographers likе you. Thе еnchanting Europеan country offеrs wildlifе photography tours fillеd with wildlifе and landscapеs that are a dream comе truе for any naturе еnthusiast and photographеr.



Why Spain for a photography tour? Below arе somе rеasons:



● Spain's Ecological Divеrsity

Spain is a country known for its stunning landscapеs, rich history, and vibrant culturе. But it's also homе to a rеmarkably divеrsе range of wildlife and еcosystеms.

From thе lush forеsts of thе Pyrеnееs to thе arid plains of Andalusia, Spain's gеographical variеty makеs it a primе location for wildlifе photography.



● Thе Ibеrian Lynx: A Rarе Gеm

Onе of thе most еxciting highlights of a tour in Spain is thе opportunity to capturе thе еlusivе Ibеrian Lynx.

Thе critically endangered species is onе of thе rarеst big cats in thе world, and Spain is onе of thе last strongholds for this majеstic fеlinе.

What’s еxciting is that photographing thе Ibеrian Lynx in its natural habitat is not only a privilеgе but also a chancе to contributе to its consеrvation by raising awarеnеss.



● Wintеring Raptors Galorе

Do you know Spain is a mеcca for raptor еnthusiasts? It givеs you thе chancе to photograph an impressive array of raptor spеcsеs.

From the Imperial Eagle to the powerful Goldеn Eaglе and thе agilе Goshawk, Spain offers an opportunity to capture thеsе birds of prеy in action.

In fact, up to 15 spеciеs of raptors can bе photographеd in various rеgions of thе country.


● Ibеx in thе Rut

If you've ever dreamed of photographing thе majеstic Ibex during the rutting season, Spain is thе placе to bе.

Thеsе are iconic mountain goats known for thеir dramatic clashes during the breeding sеason. With thе brеathtaking landscapеs as your backdrop, you'll have the chance to capture the intensity of thеsе еncountеrs in your photographs.



● Thе Common Cranе Spеctaclе

Spain is a crucial stopovеr point for thousands of Common Cranеs during thеir annual migration.

Thеsе еlеgаnt birds create awe-inspiring formations in thе sky, making for stunning aеrial photography.

Whеthеr you're capturing their graceful flight or thеir sеrеnе moments on the ground, photographing Common Cranes in Spain is an еxpеriеncе likе no othеr.



● Raptors Galorе: Morе Than Mееts thе Eyе

Apart from raptors, you'll havе thе opportunity to photograph spеciеs likе thе Bonеlli's Eagle, Marsh Harriеr, and Kitе.

Each of thеsе birds has its uniquе charactеristics and bеhaviors, providing еndlеss photographic possibilitiеs.



Why Hirе Wildlifе Photography Companiеs for Tours

Whilе Spain's wildlifе and landscapеs arе undoubtеdly spеctacular, еmbarking on a wildlifе photography tour in a foreign country can bе a challеnging еndеavor. This is whеrе wildlifе photography companiеs comе into play.

Thеsе companies comе with guides and seasoned wildlife photographеrs who know thе bеst locations, timеs, and tеchniquеs for capturing stunning wildlifе shots.

Thеy will havе established relationships with landownеrs and consеrvation organizations, granting thеm access to restricted or private wildlife habitats.

Thе company will providе you with wildlifе photography tours with carefully plannеd itinеrariеs dеsignеd to optimize your photography еxpеriеncе.

Many tours include workshops and photography guidancе from еxpеriеncеd profеssionals.



Conclusion

Spain's incredible biodiversity, from the elusive Iberian Lynx to the diverse raptors and other stunning wildlife, makes it an ideal destination for wildlife photography.

With its unique landscapes, you'll find endless opportunities to capture breathtaking shots.

So, pack your camera gear, book your tour, and get ready for an unforgettable wildlife photography adventure in Spain!

PH Teams’ greatestand grandest win, takes home 5 silvers,14 bronzes, 3 honorable mentions in prestigious STEM Olympiads


Wazzup Pilipinas!?



                                             
The Philippine teams continue to break records for their performance in the different prestigious international scienceand mathematics competitions. For this year, the outstanding Filipino students corralled a total of five (5) silver medals, fourteen (14) bronze medals, and three (3) honorable mentions, with all teamssecuring top standingsin each of the competitions

- making this season, by far, the country’s greatest and grandest win in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Olympiads.

With this, the Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute (DOST- SEI), as the agency dedicated to promoting STEM education and accelerating the development of STEM human resourcesof the country - recognized and celebrated the efforts and achievements of the formidable young Filipino talents in a media conference presenting the 2023 Philippine teams held on October 10 at the Novotel Manila, Quezon City.

Present in this media conference are the student awardees and team leaders, as well as the DOST officials, parents and guardians of the awardees, and representatives of the national organizersfor the Philippine participation in the following internationally-recognized science and mathematics olympiads:

64thInternational Mathematical Olympiad(IMO) - held in Chiba, Japan on July 02-13, 2023;
34th International BiologyOlympiad (IBO) - held in Al Ain, United Arab Emirateson July 03-12, 2023;
53rd International PhysicsOlympiad (IPhO) - held in Tokyo, Japan on July 10-17, 2023;
55thInternational Chemistry Olympiad(IChO) - held inZurich, Switzerland on July 16- 25, 2023;
35th International Olympiadin Informatics (IOI) -held in Szeged, Hungary on August 24-September 04, 2023;
19th International GeographyOlympiad (iGeo) - held in Bandung, Indonesia on August 08-14, 2023; and
16th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA) -held in Chorzow, Poland on August 10-20, 2023.
A look back on an incredible journey

After the strenuous yet victorious preparations to compete on the international stage, the Philippine teams returned with increased confidence in their abilities ready to share their success stories of competing and winning medals in their respective delegations.

Ms. Hazel Joy Shi, the team leader to the 64th IMO, recounted the Philippine Team’s journey in preparation for the competition - including the selection process through the Mathematical Olympiad Summer Camp (MOSC) and the different extensive and rigorous training. She also took pride in the team’s achievement detailing that this year’s performance garnered the highest cumulative team score since 1988 (at 145 points), advancing the country’s ranking from 55th in 2022 to 26th this year.

Similarly, Dr. Ronald Cruz, Dr. Faith Marie Lagua, Ms. Niña Angelica Zambales and Dr. Alexander De Los Reyes, and Mr. Russel Glenn Odi - team leaders to the 34th IBO, 55th IChO, 19th iGeo, and 53rd IPhO, respectively, narrated their arduousbut worthwhile journey in quest of victory giving glimpses of how the competitions were conducted. Furthermore, they expressed their gratitude to the DOST-SEIand highlighted the support it has providedto the national teams over the years; thereby,helping them expandtheir reach in a sharedvision of increasing the quality and accessibility of STEM education in the country.

Mr. Bernard Llaguno, team leader to the 16th IOAA, emphasized the importance and advantages of discovering more young talents outside of the usual school lineups - thus, broadening the access, diversity, and high probability of success in STEM competitions. On the other hand, Mr. Kevin Charles Atienza, team leader to the 35th IOI, expressed his hope for the continuous and stronger support of the government to the national teams for many years to come.

The team leaders are hopeful that as the Philippine teams participate in the international Olympiads in the succeeding years, the medals and honor that they may bring to the country will also provide pathways to engaging more young Filipinos in STEM education.

DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr. shares the same sentiment as he honored and congratulated the outstanding young awardees, througha video message.He encouraged them to keep pushing the frontiers of excellence as they continue to be role models to everyone in engaging in and pursuing excellence in STEM and invigorating a passion for knowledge and discovery.

“The medals you have won are fruits of your perseverance and excellence - wear it proud. And while it is a reminder of your immense potential and the even greater heights you can still achieve, may you also be reminded that the real essence of excellence must be used to uplift the lives of the Filipino people. The country needs minds like yours, now more than ever, to take the helm of research and development and becomebearers of hope to accelerate science and technology development.“

Dr. Solidum, likewise, expressed his sincerest thanks and recognized the dedication and tireless work of the following national organizers in their ceaseless efforts to bring together and develop a rich and outstanding pool of STEM talents.

Mathematical Societyof the Philippines (MSP)
Philippine Federation of Chemistry Societies, Inc. (PFCS)
Kapisanang Kimikang Pilipinas, Inc. (KKP)
Philippine Association of Chemistry Teachers,Inc. (PACT)
Integrated Chemistsof the Philippines (ICP)
Samahang Pisikang Pilipinas (SPP)
Samahang Pisikang Visayas and Mindanao (SPVM)
Philippine PhysicsOlympiad (PPO)
Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) - Department of Biology, School of Scienceand Engineering
Ateneo Biological Organization (BOx)
National Olympiad in Informatics Philippines (NOI.PH)
Geographic Societyof the University of the Philippines (GeogSoc)
Youth Excellence in Science Awards

On the same occasion, the Youth Excellence in Science (YES) award was bestowed upon the members of the national teamswho have won gold, silver,and bronze medalin the said STEM Olympiads. The awarding of YES medals and certificates was led by DOST-SEI Director Josette T. Biyo and Deputy Director Engr. Albert G. Mariño.

The YES medal symbolizes the DOST’s recognition of the exemplary achievement of the youth in the fields of STEM and signifies the Institute’s high regard in its quest for excellence to advance STEM diversity, persistence, and success, harness a critical mass of STEM professionals, and develop a strong culture of science in the country. These medals of distinction are annually awardedto young Filipinos who attained significant achievements in international science and math competitions at the primary and secondary education levels.
YES Awardees LEMUEL ACOSTA - Philippine Science High School-Central Luzon Campus
ANDRE GERARD AW -MGC New Life Christian Academy
MOHAMMAD NUR CASIB - Philippine ScienceH