Wazzup Pilipinas News and Events

Friday, October 10, 2014

Borderless ASEAN Tourism: Making It Work For The Philippines

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Gearing up for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) economic integration in 2015, the attitude of Filipinos toward tourism has changed. There is now the willingness to learn and perform better than before.

ASEAN, comprising of Brunei, Malaysia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Thailand, the Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, is improving cooperation and “borderless” travel among the 10 member-states.

The idea is to make the most of seamless travel resulting from integration and to create an “ASEAN hub” in the country.

Last September 29 at Dusit Thani Manila, many stakeholders of Tourism gathered together for the Borderless ASEAN Tourism: Making It Work For The Philippines event. It was led by no less than Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr. who provided the Keynote speech, and organized by the Tourism Congress of the Philippines (TCP) led by Rosanna Tuason-Fores who gave the Welcome Remarks.

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It is a shame to keep those bright ideas hidden. Let it shine through by sharing it with the rest of the world. Join the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) and make a difference in your community.

Launched last 2013 by no less than United States President Barack Obama, it was designed to support the youth who are concerned with the economic development, environmental protection, education and civic engagement in Southeast Asia including our country the Philippines.

The YSEALI organization from the US Embassy setup a networking night a few days ago last September 30 and was held at A Space in Makati city.

They also conducted an elevator pitch slam contest that some of the attendees joined and prepared before the get-together.

An Elevator Pitch Slam is a fun place to practice your elevator pitch skills. It is done like a poetry slam, in front of a live audience who then participate in feedback. The best pitch has to satisfy the crowd as well as meet the standards of the judges.

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Celebrate the Jacksons’ extraordinary career and witness music history first hand on November 3, 2014, 8.00 pm at the Solaire Grand Ballroom, Solaire Resort & Casino.

Adored by millions of fans the world over, the Jacksons forever changed the landscape of popular music. When siblings Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Tito Jackson rose to fame with their late brother Michael in the 1970s, they instantly became an unstoppable global sensation. The Jacksons' unique brand of soulful pop-funk, their lengthy catalogue of hits, and their impeccable live performances have made them one of the most beloved musical acts of all time.

Idols unlike any other in music history, the Jacksons redefined, reinvented, and reinvigorated popular music as we know it. Classic #1 hits such as “ABC,” “I Found That Girl,” “I Want You Back,” and “I’ll Be There,” catapulted the group to superstardom. With nine #1 hits and 14 Top 10 hits, the group has certainly left it mark on the charts. These timeless tracks remain every bit as infectious, incomparable, and iconic today as when they were first released.

Buen Viaje to Spain with The Travel Corporation and Enjoy Savings

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Celebrate Spanish National Day on 12 October and enjoy savings for 2015 summer holidays to Spain!

In line with the Spanish National Day celebrations, The Travel Corporation and its key brands (Trafalgar, Insight Vacations and Contiki) would like to highlight its new 2015 Spanish itineraries that cater to travellers of all ages and varied interests. More importantly, guests can take advantage of Early Payment Discounts of up to 10 percent for travel in 2015 when they book and pay by 12 February 2015.

Trafalgar – 11 Days Northern Spain from USD $2,250

This exciting Northern Spain trip by Trafalgar showcases the ultra-modern urban treats of Bilbao, like the landmark Guggenheim museum, and rural spots, like Covadonga and the Picos de Europa National Park. Handpicked Insider Experiences include sipping icy cider of Oviedo in one of the town’s ‘siderias’ or cider houses, and hearing about the town’s love of the drink while enjoying the cool nectar.

Sightseeing Highlights

· City tour of Santiago de Compostela, Salamanca and Madrid
· Orientations of Pamplona, San Sebastian, Bilbao, Santander and Oviedo
· Scenic drive through the Picos de Europa
· Visit the Holy Cave of Covadonga, the fishing village of Luarca, St. James Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, the University of Salamanca and the Prado Museum in Madrid

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Your friendly neighborhood pambansang blogger was invited last October 7, 2014 to attend the 20th Anniversary celebration of the Christina Broadcasting Network (CBN) Asia. The event was held at the Every Nation Assembly Hall located in Bonifacio Global City.

CBN Asia brought us the endearing The 700 Club originally hosted by Pat Roberston, and the Superbook animation series which I grew up with imagining going along with the trips to the Bible stories hanging out with Gizmo.

I can say that both shows were a great influence for me since we often watch them during those times they originally aired on GMA 7. I can still remember my parents, and grandparents, tuning in to The 700 Club, and my brothers and I were always looking forward to every episode of the Superbook. Now, that the cartoon has evolved into a 3D "reimagined" version, we still continue to find joy in reminiscing the memorable childhood days.

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Food entrepreneurs composed of chefs, culinary experts and businessmen running restaurants, food kiosks or stalls, teaching in schools, participating in food markets, have their own buildings, or situated in malls, shared their insights on what are currently trending in the food industry.

The event started with the hosting of Luanne Dy, an Unang Hirit co-host, and the welcome remarks of Colin Butler, Managing Director of Unilever Food Solutions. Followed by RJ Ledesma as first speaker of the day who talked about the Mercator Centrale Food Market and what are currently trending in the restaurant or food industry. Executive Chef Robby Goco of the famous Cyma restaurant was second speaker who also talked about Food Trends.

RJ Ledesma used a presentation acquired from Anton Diaz's food blog which says that we need to be able to distinguish a trend from a fad and that the current trends nowadays are slow but healthy foods like organic food restaurants, white linens are out and casual fine dining is in, restaurants are now of hipster design, unconventional location but surprisingly yummy foods, Filipino dishes are in composed of Filipino ingredients, flavors and artists, and street food markets are in.

Chef Robby Goco says food trends are like fashion trends because they come and go and speak of the times. When not in current style, food appears dated, unappealing and not so fresh.Good examples are the ramen, burgers, the cronuts, and the brookies which are like the bell bottoms and loom bands which are more like a fad. Breakfast are still in demand but on the healthier side, and that food trucks never caught on in the country because of licensing issues.

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It's very rare that our entire family could spend so much time together. Usually it would just be dining out or watching a special blocked screening of a movie. We are therefore very grateful to have an opportunity to experience a family staycation to give us more time for some much-needed family bonding.

But due to the hectic work schedules waiting for us come weekdays, we cannot afford to travel long distances just to find an accommodation suited for a few days of temporary respite from work and, in the case of our children, study. What we need is a quality and soothing place that will still allow us to relax while still able to easily go back to our daily routines afterwards.

Just a few blocks away from the Greenbelt Mall is KL Tower Serviced Residences, our chosen home for the weekend. Located in Makati’s business district of Legaspi Village, it is the ideal location to keep closely in touch with everything else in Metro Manila. Makati is very accessible to anything you'll need since you'll find almost everything within just a few walks to its malls that literally side-by-side with each other.

Techbox Philippines Expands Into Online Retail Business

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Techbox Philippines, the fastest growing gadget retail chain in the country, is expanding into the online retail segment by launching its official online store, www.techboxhub.com.

“We are launching our online store ahead of schedule because of the overwhelming clamor of people in areas without a Techbox retail outlet. We will also utilize this channel as a convenient way for customers to purchase our bundles and promos,” says Angela Gutierrez, Business Unit Head for Techbox Philippines.

“Our customers will enjoy first-in-the-market products through the Techbox Philippines online shopping site. And what’s more, we will create exclusive bundles for our customers so they can enjoy the most up-to-date gadgets at an affordable price,” added Gutierrez.

Techbox Philippines is known for selling original gadgets at a lower price. The last Techbox Mega Brands Warehouse Sale happened last June 13-15 and grossed over P10million pesos on the first day alone. The sale featured discounts of up to 80% from brands such as Lenovo, Nokia, LG, HTC, Philips, Belkin, and Nikon.

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Herbalife, a global nutrition company, has announced the launch of its second Asia-Pacific Wellness Tour, which will see six of its Herbalife Nutrition Advisory Board (NAB) members and experts visit a total of 25 cities in Australia, Cambodia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Macau, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

Building on the success of the inaugural Asia-Pacific Wellness Tour held in April this year, which recorded an attendance of 22,000 across the region, this October edition of the Tour seeks to further amplify public awareness of the importance of balanced nutrition and healthy lifestyles in an increasingly time-strapped world.

"The trends of rising obesity rates, ageing population and mounting health consciousness are not showing signs of slowing down. With the return of the Asia-Pacific Wellness Tour, Herbalife seeks to highlight the impact of these issues, and impart practical, balanced nutrition tips and positive lifestyle habits to help people live healthier lives in today's busy world. The visiting NAB members and experts will also conduct training for our Independent Herbalife Members, equipping them with nutrition knowledge to better serve their customers," said William M. Rahn, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Herbalife Asia Pacific.

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PRA is the leading organization for Filipino retailers in the country. It is the pulse and voice of the retail industry in the country. The Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) first came into being as the Chamber of Philippine Department Stores and Retailers, Inc. (CPDSRI) in 1976. In 1991, after winning the bid to host the 6th Asian Retailers Conference and Expo, the bi-annual event of the Federation of Asian Retail Associations (FARA), the Chamber changed its name into Philippine Retailers Association and adopted the now famous shopping bag logo.

Next year, PRA is hosting the Asia Pacific Retailers Convention and Exhibition (APRCE) where retailers all over the world will converge here in the country.

The 3rd Customer Loyalty Conference is the longest running conference for customer loyalty and rewards program. Loyalty Managers, CRM Managers, Social Media Managers, Content Marketing Managers, Chief Marketing Managers, and Business Owners gather in this event to learn the latest trends in the loyalty and rewards program.

The 3rd Customer Loyalty Conference is set this October 24, 2014 at New World Hotel.

The event is produced and organized by Exlinkevents – Business Events Management in the Philippines. For participation and partnerships call tel. no. 643-3887 or visit www.customerloyaltyconference.com.ph

Philippine Marketing Association Partners with Ex-link Events for the 3rd Customer Loyalty Conference and Expo

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The Philippine Marketing Association (PMA), a 6o year old association, partners with Exlink Events to present the 3rd Loyalty Conference and Expo in the Philippines, slated this October 24, 2014 at New World Hotel, Makati City.

PMA recognizing that Loyalty and Rewards program is a great marketing tool co-presented the event to give the marketing practitioners the necessary knowledge on how to create and implement a successful Loyalty and Rewards Program.

Customers love engagement that the Brands implement – the best way to implement it is to have a Loyalty and Rewards Program.

The 3rd Customer Loyalty Conference and Expo is the first and leading knowledge event for Loyalty and Rewards Program in the Philippines.

Thought leaders from leading companies in Asia will share their expertise on how to run a successful loyalty and rewards program.

Only very few slots remain to have one you may call now at tel. no 643-3887.

Sunday, October 5, 2014

Star Wars Reads Day Philippines 2014 is Free and Open to the Public

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Got a little Jedi or Sith in the family? Register the youngling for activities at Star Wars Reads Day Philippines 2014!

Celebrate reading and literacy, Star Wars-style! Join us on October 11 for a fun day of arts and crafts, storytelling, stormtroopers and more! This event is FREE and open to the public.
Lots of other awesome stuff lined up for fans of all ages. Exhibits, storytelling, tabletop games, and of course a chance to meet and greet the characters of Star Wars!

Slots and materials for the arts and crafts station are quite limited, so we recommend you register right away! Just going for the photo ops? You can do that all day, no need to sign up your kid!

James Cousins Company's "Without Stars" and "There We Have Been"

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"There We Have Been" focuses on the first half of Murakami’s novel, wherein two dancers enact the development of relationships between the novel’s protagonist and his late best friend's girlfriend. This duet sees English performers Aaron Vickers and Lisa Welham intensely folding, wrapping and balancing, with the female character never once touching the floor.

"Without Stars" tells the other half of the story. Framed from the male protagonists’ point of view, the piece for three dancers tells the story of a man on the brink of losing the life of his love. The dance piece features international contemporary dancers Albert Garcia (Spain), Chihiro Kawasaki (Japan) and Georges Hann (UK).

James Cousins trained at the London Contemporary Dance School (LCDS), graduating in 2010 with a first class honors degree. As a performer, major highlights of his career are dancing for the international tour and film adaptation of Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake and performing for the 2012 film Anna Karenina starring Keira Knightley and Jude Law.

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The world we know is about to change. Come 9 October, worm-like alien creatures will slither their way into Animax’s airwaves as Parasyte -the maxim- premieres across Asia on the same day as Japan, in original Japanese audio with English subtitles.

Based on Hitoshi Iwaaki’s award-winning manga, Parasyte -the maxim- will infuse the late 1980s – 1990s classic with a modern edge by setting the stage for the parasite epidemic in present day Japan.

Title: Parasyte -the maxim-
Genre: Sci-fi, thriller, horror
No. of episodes: 24

The story unfolds when Shinichi Izumi (voiced by Nobunaga Shumazaki, Photo Kano), an ordinary high school student, is attacked by an alien parasite. He narrowly escapes from being fully infected by a parasite known as ‘Migi’ (Japanese for ‘Right’), who only manage to assume control of Shinichi’s right arm. This marks the beginning of their extraordinary friendship, as both Shinichi and Migi will learn to co-exist with each other. The plot thickens when they encounter other man-killing parasites and find themselves caught in the battle of the two species. With them being neither fully human nor alien, which side of the battle will they choose to take?

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Greetings from PANA and PANA Foundation!

The PANA Foundation will be staging the 5th PANAF IMC Youth Congress on November 21, 2014 at the Unilab Bayanihan Center, Pioneer St., Pasig City. This year’s theme is “Digital ME”.

Today’s youth go through a phase of impatience, demanding immediate gratification. Except, in a digital world, they have access to solutions and options that never before existed. Their attention span is short and they always seek affirmation. There are too many distractions and peer pressure is greater than ever.

For every ‘self-centered’ youth is an individual needing to shout out his individuality, and to seek reaction – and approval – for their action/opinion. The challenge is how to open their minds to a world where good actions and ideas, no matter how small, have the chance to spark into a world-changing phenomenon.