DC Comics’ First-Ever PH-Exclusive Cover is Here – And You Won’t Believe What’s On It!

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a historic move, DC Comics is set to release its first-ever Philippine-exclusive variant cover this March 2025. This special edition of "Absolute Flash #1" is part of the innovative Absolute Universe, a fresh reimagining of DC's iconic superheroes. The exclusive cover showcases the Flash sprinting through Makati City's Ayala Avenue during the SuperManila Fan Run, clutching chicken feet and passing a fishball stall, with a stray cat by his side—a vibrant tribute to Filipino culture. ​

This unique variant is a collaborative masterpiece by esteemed Filipino comic book artists Carlo Pagulayan, Jason Paz, and Romulo Fajardo Jr. Their combined talents bring to life a scene that resonates deeply with the local community, blending the dynamic energy of the Flash with the rich tapestry of Manila's streets. ​

To obtain this collector's item, fans are encouraged to participate in the SuperManila Fan Run, scheduled for Sunday, March 16, 2025, at Ayala Triangle in Makati City. Registration for the event ensures participants receive a complimentary copy of the exclusive variant cover. Early registrants, signing up by February 28, 2025, will also be eligible for a random collectible prize from a selection that includes items from Bandai Hobby, Kotobukiya, Lego, Marvel Comics, and ZD Toys. 

The SuperManila Fan Run offers various race categories to accommodate all fitness levels:​

1K: ₱1,500​

3K: ₱1,700​

5K: ₱2,000​

10K: ₱2,250​

Each registration includes an official race shirt, string bag, race bib, and the exclusive "Absolute Flash #1" variant cover.

For those unable to participate in the run but eager to own the variant cover, a limited number will be available for purchase at Comic Odyssey, Robinsons Galleria, following the event. ​

This landmark release not only commemorates DC Comics' commitment to its Filipino fanbase but also highlights the rich cultural tapestry of the Philippines. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of history and celebrate the fusion of global superheroes with local heritage.​

For more details and to register for the SuperManila Fan Run, visit the official SuperManila website.

New Transport Chief Halts Full Cashless Toll Collection: A Victory for Motorists or a Step Back?

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In his first major move as the newly appointed Secretary of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Vince Dizon has ordered the suspension of the planned full cashless toll collection system on expressways. This decision comes after the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) initially mandated that, starting March 15, 2025, all vehicles passing through expressways must be equipped with a Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) tag or face penalties.

The Argument Against Full Cashless Toll Collection

Dizon cited numerous issues with the current RFID system, including faulty scanners, barriers that fail to lift even with a fully loaded RFID account, and overcharging incidents. More importantly, he emphasized that forcing all motorists to go cashless is "anti-poor," particularly for those who do not frequently travel on toll roads and might struggle with reloading their RFID accounts.

The move to suspend the full cashless policy has garnered mixed reactions. Many motorists expressed relief, arguing that a hybrid system—where both cash and RFID lanes are available—is the most practical solution. Some believe that the rush to go fully cashless benefits RFID providers more than the commuters, raising suspicions of financial incentives behind TRB’s push for the policy.

Calls for Modernization Instead of Suspension

While many support Dizon’s decision, others argue that instead of halting cashless transactions altogether, the government should focus on improving the existing system. The Philippine Exporters Confederation (PhilExport), for instance, has proposed replacing the outdated RFID technology with an Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system, which would link directly to electronic payment options such as credit and debit cards. This method is already in use in many developed countries and could address the inefficiencies of the current system.

Meanwhile, the NAGKAISA Labor Coalition has criticized the TRB for its insistence on pushing the cashless policy despite public complaints. They argue that without a proper technological upgrade, forcing motorists into an unreliable system only adds unnecessary burdens.

Is the Decision Political?

Some observers question whether this sudden policy change is politically motivated, especially with the upcoming elections. Critics argue that if affordability is the concern, then RFIDs should be distributed for free, and toll fees should be the primary focus instead of payment methods. Others point out that the real anti-poor issue is the worsening traffic congestion and lack of viable public transportation alternatives, which force Filipinos to rely on expensive toll roads.

The Road Ahead: Finding a Balanced Solution

While the suspension of full cashless toll collection is seen as a win for many motorists, it also highlights deeper issues in the country’s transportation system. The key question now is: What comes next? Should the DOTr and TRB work toward refining the cashless system rather than scrapping it? Should they introduce a better, corruption-free toll collection technology? Or should they focus on improving traffic conditions so that fewer Filipinos need to rely on expressways in the first place?

One thing is certain—motorists want a system that is efficient, fair, and reliable. Whether the government will deliver remains to be seen.

Exposed: How Media Fuels Fake News by Prioritizing Drama Over Truth!

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

​The recent hearings conducted by the House of Representatives' Tri-Committee (Tri-Comm) on the proliferation of fake news have brought to light a critical issue: the media's tendency to prioritize sensational confrontations over substantive discussions aimed at addressing misinformation.​

Sensationalism Overshadowing Substance

During the second hearing on February 18, 2025, Ross Flores Del Rosario, founder of Wazzup Pilipinas, reiterated that the headlines were dominated by the heated exchange between Congressman Dante Marcoleta and a vlogger (first hearing held on February 4, 2025) and a high-ranking military official (second hearing on February 18, 2025). Similarly, the first hearing saw extensive coverage of the confrontation between Congressman Marcoleta and vlogger Atty. Ricky Tomotorgo. These high-profile clashes, while newsworthy, overshadowed the more structured and insightful inquiries led by Congressman Zia Adiong. Adiong's methodical questioning elicited essential information that are more crucial to understanding and combating the spread of fake news.​

In the same vein, Congresswoman Geraldine Roman proposed the establishment of a "Digital Council," akin to an advertising council, tasked with evaluating vlogger content prior to its online publication. This proactive measure aims to curb the dissemination of disinformation at its source. Regrettably, such constructive proposals received minimal media attention compared to the sensational confrontations.​

Media's Role in Shaping Public Discourse

The media wields significant influence in shaping public perception. By prioritizing sensational stories over in-depth policy discussions, media outlets may inadvertently foster a culture more captivated by controversy than by solutions. This trend is evident in the coverage of the recent hearings, where confrontations received prominent attention, while substantive policy proposals were relegated to the background.​

Public Consumption Patterns

This media approach aligns with the consumption habits of many Filipinos, who often prefer content reminiscent of dramatic teleseryes over intellectual discourse. While engaging content is not inherently negative, an overemphasis on sensationalism can detract from the public's understanding of critical issues, such as the mechanisms and consequences of fake news.​

The Path Forward

Addressing the fake news dilemma requires a multifaceted approach:​

Balanced Media Reporting: Media outlets should strive for a balance between reporting sensational events and providing in-depth coverage of policy discussions and solutions.​

Public Education: There is a need for programs that educate the public on media literacy, enabling consumers to discern between sensationalism and substantive information.​

Legislative Measures: Proposals like Congresswoman Roman's Digital Council should be given due consideration, as they offer structural solutions to preempt the dissemination of fake news.​

By shifting focus from sensationalism to substance, both media and the public can contribute to a more informed and resilient society, capable of tackling the challenges posed by misinformation.​