iACADEMY Students Develop Local Music Search Engine PiLE

Wazzup Pilipinas!

In an effort to lead an innovation campaign for the local music industry, the students of iACADEMY in cooperation with music online sites PinoyTuner, Radio Republic, Amplify, Vandals on the Wall and Ndfy, has successfully developed a local search engine that will give you search results containing only local Filipino music creations. The search engine will also allow you to share your choice of music among your friends through the social media networks.

PiLE hopes to give users access to an impressive database of Filipino music and artists, culled from other locally managed sites, as a way to keep up with a rapidly evolving industry.

We all know that when we use the more popular search engines on the Internet, the usual search results may lead us to some other sites that does not really offer what we intended to look for, and quite possibly lead us away and into something else foreign thus losing the opportunity of our local music artists to get our attention and support. There is a huge competition with the foreign artists for being always on the top of the lists of search engines because of their popularity that we often neglect to appreciate our own.

At a preview held at the new location of iACADEMY, some members of the media were introduced to the new search engine and had the opportunity to interview the leads of the project. It is admirable to see the youth participating in this cause to help promote original Filipino music. I actually suggested that the Organisasyon ng mga Pilipinong Mang-aawit (OPM) should partner with them as both groups will benefit. Since OPM would like Filipinos to support Filipino music more, the search engine could become valuable to introduce everyone to the new local talents who do not have the luxury of being backed up by big recording companies.

Ballet Philippines' La Revolucion Filipina Media Launch at CCP

Wazzup Pilipinas!

To kick off Ballet Philippines' 45th Anniversary – The Sapphire Season, the sublime paralytic Apolinario Mabini and the story of his role in the Philippine Revolution are brought into the limelight once again, just in time for the hero’s sesquicentennial birth anniversary.

La Revolucion Filipina is scheduled from July 25 to 27, 2014 at the Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo (CCP Main Theater) and is the fourth restaging of the modern dance masterpiece led by three members of La Revolucion Filipina’s original cast, Annette Cruz-Mariano, Judell de Guzman-Sicam, and Alden Lugnasin.The show is at 3pm and 8 pm (Friday and Saturday) and 2pm and 6pm (Sunday).

At a media launch held at the CCP itself last Friday July 11, 2014, members of the media were treated to an excerpt of the show performed flawlessly by the cast themselves, and then followed by a press conference participated by the management of Ballet Philippines and the La Revolucion Filipina cast themselves. Present to answer our inquiries were choreographer Agnes Locsin, Ballet Philippines President Margie Moran, set designer Mio Infante, librettist Dennis Marasigan, Ballet Philippines Artistic Director Paul Morales and some of the lead cast of La Revolucion Filipina.

FILA and ATAT Racing Team Partnership: A Testament of Superior Branding

Wazzup Pilipinas!

FILA Philippines has consistently been promoting sports since its promotional tie-up with the popular basketball during its earlier years. Undoubtedly, it has evolved into a brand that identifies itself more with elite sports like Polo, Rugby, Figure Skating, and now more recently with Motorbike Racing.

At an event launching its partnership with the ATAT Racing Team, along with the Ducati and Aprilia brand of motorbikes, the brand has manifested its commitment to partner with only the best to endorse its products. It's not the company that hires the most popular celebrities out there, but it's obviously one that looks into an upper level of appreciation towards promoting sports-related activities geared to better and healthy living, that hopefully the people will realize.

Jill's Bar located at The Fort in Bonifacio Global City, along with its neighboring bar called Jack's, was fully booked with many of the friends, colleagues and sponsors of both FILA and ATAT (Any Time All The Time), as well as friends from the media. The July 9 night was oozing with party-filled excitement as we finally had a chance to meet the team that were primarily racing because of their passion.

Lots of raffle prizes were given away including 3 watches from TechnoMarine, 10 FILA shoes, an expensive Foil A Car service, and 120 bottles of vodka - of which I haven't claimed mine yet. Lol!

Modernized Sangley Airport Maybe NAIA's Third Runway

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Proposing Sangley Point in Cavite as the site for a new international gateway, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has also recommended to the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) that this new airport operate under an integrated airspace with the same air traffic control tower as the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) until 2025.

“JICA’s recommendation means that, in effect, the new Sangley airport will be NAIA’s ‘third runway’ until greater expansion can be made in the long-term. Meanwhile, upgrading Sangley’s existing airport may be done faster and at a lower cost, since initial reclamation will be needed for only one to two runways, instead of three to four. This will significantly bring down JICA’s initial ballpark estimate of $ 10 Billion to build a 4-runway airport in Sangley,” noted DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya.

The decision on whether NAIA should be closed down eventually may be made later on, based on the evolution of this common-airspace strategy. The options for 2025 and beyond would be to close NAIA once Sangley is expanded into a 4-runway airport, or to retain this dual-airport system and possibly develop Sangley into a 2- to 3- runway airport.

Parachute Bags: Convertibles That Were Designed to Impress

 
Wazzup Pilipinas!

They are more than meets the eye! They magically transform into something new! They cleverly convert into another convenient thing that's all useful, trendy, and affordable. They are Parachute Bags - a unique and stylish backpack can quickly turn into a messenger bag, or vice versa, and many other variations with stunning printed designs that can fashionably reflect your changing moods.

From the same people who gave you Elle bags, these new line of convertible bags makes it look like you own more than just one bag. It is undeniably an ingenious way to make people think you rock with a couple of stylish bags!

The materials are imported and water repellant and is deal for everyday use whether by students or professionals who value quality and affordability matched by that uber-trendy style that makes you feel young and alive.

At a launch held at Just Thai Bonifacio Global City branch, bloggers were introduced to the several lines of Parachute Bags and eventually made everyone jaws drop because of the "convertible" feature. These bags were designed to impress!

Urban Deca Towers in Mandaluyong: Micro Living Condominium Built for Yuppies and Collegiate Students

Wazzup Pilipinas!

To everyone who is looking for affordable and semi-furnished condominiums, there is a new condominium project that will soon be towering at a height of 42 stories at No. 69 Sierra Madre street, Barangay Highway Hills, in Mandaluyong and just along EDSA for that added convenience that will surely catch the attention of our mid-class single upwardly professionals, or otherwise known as "yuppies," and colleges students.

Your friendly neighborhood pambansang blogger was invited to the groundbreaking ceremonies of another great condominium project that will reach out more to the younger generation that needs more time for themselves and their career or studies rather than wasting their time in the busy streets of the metro.

Aimed to address the need for a quality lifestyle for long-hour commuters, the Urban Deca Towers project ultimately becomes a weekday halfway house or private dwelling unit for those who would otherwise co-share apartment or dormitories. It is expected to be finished by third quarter of 2017 but now pre-sells at prices starting at P875,000 which equates to a monthly amortization of around P7500 only.

CCP and Galleria Duemila Presents Psychology Today by Maria Cruz

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Cultural Center of the Philippines and Galleria Duemila presents Psychology Today, a solo show by conceptual painter Maria Cruz. Psychology Today is a suite of text-based paintings based on eight out of seventeen topics from an advertorial insert of the same name at a 1971 issue of Esquire magazine. The selection strikes a chord in the areas of gender, politics, race, and identity.

The exhibition aligns with one of Cruz’s recurring themes in her body of work—identifying helplessness and potential in casual text, and eventually dressing them up as vigorous propaganda-like forms. In creating text-based works Maria Cruz has utilized constructivist color systems, color combinations that undermine meaning, and modified color concepts.

Maria Cruz will be giving an Artist talk on 24 July, Thursday, 4pm, which will be followed by her Opening Reception at 6pm. Psychology Today will be on view from July 24 until August 24, 2014 at the Bulwagang Fernando Amorsolo (Small Gallery) of the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Viewing Hours are Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 6 pm.

"Pinocchio" Children's Musical Opens on August 16

Wazzup Pilipinas!

In celebration of its 22 years of producing well-loved musicals for children of all ages, Repertory Philippines Theater for Young Audiences proudly announces a richly imaginative offering with the staging of
“PINOCCHIO” - the story of a familiar wooden puppet who wants to become a real boy whose nose grew when he told a lie.

Originally written as a serial in 1881, Le avventure di Pinocchio (The Adventures of Pinocchio), its popularity was given a boost when Walt Disney made it into a popular 1940 animated film. The story has been filmed many other times, including a 2002 live-action version starring 50-year-old Oscar-winner Roberto Benigni as Pinocchio.

The contemporary celebration of PINOCCHIO has been newly adapted for today’s young audiences in this award-winning musical based on the Book by Carlo Collodi, Adaptation and Lyrics by Jim Eiler; and Music by Jim Eiler and Jeanne Bargy.

Set in Italy, this version tells the beloved tale of Pinocchio, a boy-sized puppet built by the caring puppet maker, Geppetto. Knowing of his longing for a son, the Blue Fairy brings Pinocchio to life as a reward for Geppetto's remarkably generous spirit. Pinocchio is told by the Blue Fairy that if he always obeys his father, she will turn him into a real boy. But the best laid plans can sometimes go awry and Pinocchio's boyish longings leads him away from his father and on an adventure unlike any other. From the Land of The Toys to the belly of a whale, Pinocchio learns that no love is greater than that of a parent for a child.

Ms. Joy Virata, artistic director of Repertory Philippines Therater for Young Audiences will direct PINOCCHIO. This marks her third time to direct this musical since it was produced in 1996 and 2004 respectively.

The Secret Behind Better Ingredients, Better Pizza

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Papa John’s offers sumptuous pizzas that will definitely score a high five. Do you ever wonder why Papa John’s is one of the best Pizza Restaurants?

Here are at least five reasons why:

1) The Dough - When was the last time you ordered pizza, which came with real dough (and not biscuit)? Or when was the last time you ordered pizza that wasn't oily? Minus good dough pizza isn't a pizza.

Papa John's dough is baked fresh. It's hot, it's soft, and it's chewy - nice!

2) Ingredients - Pizzas are topped with generous servings, while pastas and sides ooze with flavor - the merry mix of ingredients feel like they dance on your palate.

They say they are "Better Pizza. Better Ingredients". Must be. It really does make a difference when ingredients are fresh. You'd see and taste it.

3) Pizza Variety - "Super Papa" is Papa John's top of the line with the combination of pepperoni, Italian sausage, ham, sliced mushrooms, onions, green peppers, and black olives. This one's "all-in" so it's the first one you must try.

Ross Del Rosario Awarded as Best Choice Influential Social Media Evangelist

Wazzup Pilipinas!

I never thought your friendly neighborhood pambansang blogger will be recognized for my efforts in social media. All along I was thinking of Wazzup Pilipinas to emerge as leading and influential. The announcement came in as a surprise, and of all the days, it came on a weekend when I was so overwhelmed with many projects and deadlines. An email was going to be the one to cheer me up that day.

The email states: "Kindly see attached Congratulatory Letter from Best Choice Awards council conferring YOU as BEST CHOICE INFLUENTIAL SOCIAL MEDIA EVANGELIST. Awards ceremonies will be on July 25, 2014, 6:45PM at CROWNE PLAZA, Ortigas Avenue Ext.,Cor. Asian Development Bank Ave., Pasig City Philippines."

Was I dreaming? I've worked for several years in the IT industry for several years but I have never won an award. Recognized yes,,,,,but actually winning an award complete with trophies and plaque along with other prominent people is ...Wow!!! Fascinating!!!

After all the wards like Top Emerging Influential of 2013 down to the latest of which was the Best Filipino Community Blog Site of 2014, I never expected to wn an award that is dedicated to me instead.

Wazzup Pilipinas Bloggers as Special Guests of Radyo Inquirer

Wazzup Pilipinas!

We will be having a radio show soon at Radyo Inquirer DZIQ 990 AM. But before we set foot on that next chapter of our lives as a blogger,  we are guesting first on Vigattin Radio show to talk about our life as a blogger and to introduce our upcoming radio show that will be anchored by real life bloggers themselves.

Every blogger who is a member of the Wazzup Pilipinas online community will be given a chance to be put on the spotlight to talk about his or her blogging adventure This opportunity is a great way to promote the bloggers' advocacy and aspirations as well.

If you're not yet a member of the Wazzup Pilipinas community then this is the right time to join us and get the chance to have presence not just online but on air!

A fellow blogger has also gave us notice that we will also be invited to guest on a television show soon.

Great things are happening to Wazzup Pilipinas as we continue to level up and embrace all opportunities for media presence.

Please stay tune tomorrow between 10 to 11 am at Radyo Inquirer DZIQ 990 AM radio.

If you want to be greeted on air, just post a comment here and we will mention your names and messages.

@MsCrisAlbert : Happy Birthday to the Woman Behind FILA Philippines

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Happy Birthday to the woman of style and substance, of sole and soul,  - no other than Cris Albert, President and CEO of Fila Philippines.

Cris Albert may seem like a girl with fairy princess dreams, or perhaps a carefree sprite with tireless energy, or maybe a queen with whimsical indulgences, a playful woman with girlish tastes, bouts of whimsy and a penchant for everything pretty. But at the helm of the Fila Philippines is a woman that can blaze a trail both in the market and as an empowered woman.

Fila Philippines has ramped up not only its footwear and apparel but also its branding. Its presence is now strongly felt in elite sports such as polo and regatta, followed by rugby when they got the Philippine Volcanoes as endorsers, and then figure skating with Michael Christian Martinez, and most recently Ducati motorbike racing with the ATAT Racing Team.

Miss Albert explains that Fila’s marketing statement is to be both affordable and aspirational.  “We have to keep image high. Consumers should feel confident about what they wear without having to spend too much or buy fake goods,” says Albert.

Happy Birthday Miss Cris Albert!!! You are a blessing to Fila Philippines!!!

ABS-CBN Welcomes Superbook as an Official Kapamilya

Wazzup Pilipinas!

It’s official! The well-loved animated series Superbook from the 80’s and 90’s along with its new reimagined version is now a Kapamilya after the recently concluded contract signing held at the ELJ Towers, ABS-CBN Compound in Quezon City.

“Of course, we are very happy that finally Superbook is with ABS-CBN because we really believe in this animation and because we feel we have the same objective to better the lives of the Filipino, and for the kids to the best always. We feel that we are in sync and we have the same objectives. Superbook was meant to be here,” said Cory Vidanes, ABS-CBN Head for Broadcast.

“It’s really God’s timing for Superbook to be in ABS-CBN. We have always wanted to reach a new audience to share God’s love with,” added Peter Kairuz, CBN Asia President.

Superbook will air in Tagalog so that more children will be able to understand and grasp the values and lessons incorporated in the animation.

Max’s New Promos Heighten Excitement and Support for Team Gilas Pilipinas

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Mouthwatering comfort dishes and an exciting game of basketball form the perfect pair as the Philippine National Basketball Team (Gilas Pilipinas) gears up to make history at the most prestigious international basketball competition in Spain slated for August this year.

Global Filipino brand Max’s, the official restaurant of Team Gilas Pilipinas serves up exciting promos to bring the Gilas excitement to the hilt.

Max's will be giving Filipinos a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch the Philippines' very own Gilas team compete against the best basketball players in the world with its Fly to Spain Promo. Customers may simply enjoy their favourite Max’s dishes at any Max’s Restaurant nationwide. For every PhP 300 food purchase made until July 12 (dine-in, take-out or delivery), customers will be entitled to one raffle coupon and inch closer to watching their favorite Gilas players compete live in Spain. They may also utilize social media by uploading a “puso to the Max” selfie (photo of oneself with right arm across the chest), posting the hashtag PusoToTheMax and sharing these on Twitter and Instagram. One winner will get the amazing privilege to fly to Spain with a companion, get free game passes for two, and be treated to free accommodations and pocket money.

As support for Gilas Pilipinas pours in, customers may also experience everything Gilas by just visiting Max’s Restaurant. They may now listen to the favorite music and sample the top 5 dishes of Gilas players while dining at Max’s. On top of the Gilas Team’s list of favorite dishes is Max's world-famous fried chicken, crispy on the outside and delectably tender on the inside. This dish is given an exciting twist and can now be enjoyed “Pinoy-Style” with 3 new dips to make each bite more enjoyable: Max's gravy, chilli sauce and Pinoy sarsa, to create a different kind of thrill for diners.

Haja Party: The 90s Pop and Kpop Clash

Wazzup Pilipinas!

A lot has happened since the last time we held an event in 2012. Now that we are better and stronger, we are bringing it all back to where we began. The date and venue is set! Welcome to Haja Party – The 90s Pop and Kpop Clash! Move over STEP OFF (Dance Pinoy Kpop), it’s time we PARTY, Playhouse style!

Haja Party: The 90s Pop and Kpop Clash is Playhouse Production's signature kpop event to be held on October 31, 2014 at CAP Auditorium in Makati City. It will have categories of kpop cover dance remix, kpop solo cosplay and kpop group cosplay with 20 slots each. The twist of the dance contest is the Kpop Cover Dance Remix (Dance Battle), as each of the groups have to mix their piece with a 90s song towards the end of their routine.

One of the main highlights of this event is the comeback stage of M3G as they perform their new song SOULMATE, which was written by their manager, Michelle Ann Rio, arranged by Exactly Four’s vocalist, Oddysseus Cabual and recorded at Impluwencia Recording Studio in Quezon City. In lieu of the song’s special promotion, the five finalists of ARE U MY SEOULMATE? will also be performing live.