Wazzup Pilipinas News and Events

Thursday, February 18, 2016

Java Browser Plugin is Dead, Long Live HTML5!

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A few days ago, Oracle announced on their blog that they plan to kill the Java browser plugin in their next major version of JDK, scheduled for release in Q1 2017.

What does this mean? Should we worry about our browsing experience?

This really just means that it won’t be possible to run Java applets in the browser anymore. The infamous “applet” is a technology that was developed by Sun Microsystems in the 90’s and went on to be acquired by Oracle.

This technology was still popular in many exploit kits over the last two years but in the last year alone we saw a sudden shift where kits removed Java support in favor of embedding more Adobe Flash exploits and direct browser exploits.

So, for an average user, the impact of this sudden passing will be pretty minimal. Most average users might not realize that the majority of web browsers have already done away with support for the API needed to run the Java plugin.

For business users that still need to run Java in the browser, Oracle is advising that you move to a plugin-free technology like java Web Start. Note, the existing applets will not only need to be switched but it will require new porting.

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The Department of Transportation and Communications’ (DOTC) push to modernize the country’s public utility bus (PUB) system reaches another milestone today with the launch of new buses for the Point-to-Point (P2P) Bus Service featuring a technology-enabled and Persons with Disability (PWD)-friendly design.

“PWDs, senior citizens, and pregnant women will begin enjoying the convenience and comfort of this new class of city buses, which improve accessibility with low floors and foldable ramps. We are ridding our streets of dilapidated, poorly-maintained, and unsuitable buses. Eventually, this will push all PUBs to modernize,” said DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya.

These high-quality, high-capacity buses will boast of the following features:

Low floor height
Hydraulic kneeling function to allow tilting towards the pavement
Retractable or foldable boarding and alighting ramp
Tap-and-go card payment system
Global positioning system (GPS) devices
On-board close-circuit television (CCTV) cameras
Free wifi

Telcos View: San Miguel’s Control of 700 MHz Spectrum Seen as ‘Anti-competitive’

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Local telecommunications companies have described as ‘anti-competition’ San Miguel Corporation’s hold over the entire 700 MHz band, reiterating calls for the frequency to be equitably distributed in a transparent manner among existing operators and new entrants.

Both PLDT and Globe Telecom have, since 2008 and 2005 respectively, repeatedly requested for an allocation of the 700 MHz frequency from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), which to date has not acted on these applications. The two companies stressed the need to distribute the unused frequency to help bridge the gap in Internet speeds between the Philippines and other countries in the region.

“What is anti-competitive is the present situation where San Miguel controls the entire 700 MHz band, as well as substantial unutilized chunks of radio spectrum in other frequency bands through various corporations,” said PLDT and Smart Communications Head of Public Affairs Ramon Isberto in a letter to the Manila Times.

“Our position on this matter has been consistent. Since 2008, we have asked that the 700-MHz radio frequency band be reassigned from broadcast TV to mobile telephony and the said frequency be equitably distributed in a transparent manner among existing operators and new entrants,” reiterates Isberto in the said letter published last week.

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Craving for a posh yet value for money smartphone that perfectly fits in your hand? Look no further because Flash—one of Asia’s up and coming lifestyle and smart device developer makes the Mica White version of the bestselling Flash 2 available in select stores in nationwide.

The Flash 2 smartphone, which was launched Q4 of 2015, is one of the hottest t-selling product in Southeast Asia because of its powerful camera features and superior performance. In fact, the first batch of the Flash 2 was sold out in just ten minutes after its launch.

The Flash 2 smartphone is ergonomically designed to give you access to all useful applications using just one hand. It’s curved back and contoured sides give balance to the phone, preventing unwanted slips when in use.

Furthermore, the Flash 2 is equipped with an LED flash autofocus front camera that makes it your professional selfie tool when going outdoors or when staying at home. With its 25 percent larger sensor size and 27 percent bigger pixel size, the phone is ready for all kinds of lighting conditions—all set for your selfie-worthy moments.

Aside from its enhanced selfie-taking features, the new Flash 2 has an even powerful main back camera that gives you the advantage of capturing your own view of the world. Capture the images just the way you see and experience them, or tweak them according to your own demands by using its enhanced photography creative tools. You can test your mobigraphy skills in manual settings, shoot time lapse videos and capture panoramic scenes using the front camera.

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As part of its commitment to help build a digital nation, Globe Telecom is expanding the reach of its nationwide digital solutions caravan for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through its SME arm Globe myBusiness as it holds the 3rd Globe myBusiness Day in Batangas City.

Globe myBusiness has been working relentlessly with local government units (LGUs) nationwide to bring one of the country’s much-awaited ground fairs for existing and aspiring SMEs to help them learn the ropes of entrepreneurship in the digital age.

Now on its 3rd installment in Batangas with previous roll-outs in Cauayan, Isabela and Davao City, the Globe myBusiness Day caravan is a one-stop exhibit for entrepreneurs, allowing SMEs to explore new business opportunities, find new ways to increase their revenues, discover new solutions to stay competitive in the digital age, meet and be inspired by successful entrepreneurs and get great deals from suppliers to save on costs through showcase of the latest digital solutions, insightful speaker discussions, and interactive display of booths from participating SMEs.

Aside from showcasing its portfolio of offerings, Globe myBusiness is also bringing RJ Ledesma, co-founder of Mercato Centrale Food Market and Anthony Pangilinan, Chairman of Chief Disturber of Businessworks, Inc. to share tips and tricks to help make businesses better.

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"You know why Manny Pacquiao's statement is so offensive? Because it hit the nail on the head. It is just so on point that it is so hard to prove wrong.

He was like asking:

How did animals (who have no reasoning) came up to have better understanding than people when it comes to this matter?

Yes we have to respect each others' opinions; opinions do not usually have right or wrong answers.

The answers to "Which is better, hot or cold coffee?" "a condo or a house and lot?" "sports car or SUV" are opinions that we should respect.

Now, if someone disapproves Manny's statement, you have to give us more than just "I am offended!"

PROVE HIM WRONG USING PROPER REASONING

Explain why same-sex marriage is essential. What can it contribute to make this world a better place to live in? Why homosexuality is not immoral? That's how we fight for our rights.

We still have much love for LGBTs despite this being outrageous.

I'm not for Manny nor for LGBTs... I'm for the truth." - Josh Martinez

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10 brands. 10 artists. One show. Immerse yourself in the Manila X Experience!

Manila X Festival is coming this June 2016 merging fashion and music into the grandest festival yet.

Highlighting today's youth, they are focusing on three millennial cultures namely fashion, music and shopping, and celebrating each one with this one of a kind event.

The Manila X Experience or #ManilaXperience was born from this generation's young, innovative and versatile idea of fun. The festival will capture diversity, accessibility, and creativity.

Jacob Benedicto hosted the Manila X Festival preview event held at the Palace Pool Club at Bonifacio Global City on February 16, 2016. He introduced John Lozano, the visionary behind the festival, who gave a few words that night, then Kiana Valenciano performed a song number followed by several models showing off their stuff on stage. All the while, DJ Marc Marasigan pumping his mighty music setting the mood for the night.

The vision of Manila X is to be an avenue for exposure and opportunities for the top brands and talents of the country.Making music, fashion and shopping open to all, they are expecting at least 10,000 attendees from all over the region. It will be a celebration of each and everyone's individuality and the place of newfound ties.

Be part of the revolutionary experience on June 3 and 4 at Globe Circuit Event Grounds!

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"Imma let you finish but..." History almost repeated itself when Taylor Swift triumphed over Kendrick Lamar for The Grammys' Album of the Year!

Taylor Swift's “1989” wins album of the year, and also took home the best pop vocal album and best music video awards.

Meghan Trainor wins best new artist, while Ed Sheeran won his first two Grammys for song of the year for "Thinking Out Loud." and best pop solo performance!

However, Kendrick Lamar, with 11 nominations in 9 categories, took home 5 prizes over all. Kendrick Lamar wins for "To Pimp a Butterfly." Does that make him the overall grand winner of the Grammys?

Taylor Swift win is a victory that probably has hip-hop fans howling. Some were disappointed that Taylor Swift won for best album over Kendrick Lamar, Alabama Shakes or The Weeknd. I don't think many agreed with the Grammys choice for album of the year, and rarely for best new artist. Some say it seems to be always some bland album/artist.

For all of you into rap and hip/hop, I feel your pain. Real Rock and Roll has rarely won, punk never won, it's usually some corporate album, nothing innovative or controversial.

Taylor Swift became the first woman to ever win The Grammys album of the year twice, and wasted little time before firing back at Kanye West by saying "There will be people along the way who will try to undercut your success, or take credit for your accomplishments or your fame. But if you just focus on the work and you don’t let those people sidetrack you, someday when you get where you’re going, you’ll look around and you’ll know that it was you and the people who love you that put you there, and that will be the greatest feeling in the world."

With her acceptance speech, it felt like the first time we’ve truly seen the real Taylor Swift, at least at an award show. She ended it with the perfect mic drop — "Thank you for this moment."

Deadpool: Movie Review with Lots of Spoilers! (Sorry! I'm Bad!)

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"Things to love about Deadpool: The wit, the BLADES, the scriptwriting, the atomic wedgies, the things that go boom. This movie is a keeper." - Alma Anonas-Carpio

Deadpool, how do we love thee, lets us count the ways. Here are what people say about the Deadpool in his debut movie! 1. We love you peeing by the pole. 2. We love your Deadpool poster. 3. We love you playing pool. 4. We love you playing a fighting game 5. We love you passed out. 6. We love you bar dancing. 7. We love you tending bar. 8. We love you sitting at the bar. 9. We love you losing at solitaire. 10. We don't love that there is no Deadpool on the ceiling.

The movie was beyond awesome! Undoubtedly the best Marvel movie so far. My stomach hurts from laughing. These guys killed it. Tim Miller's Deadpool is a bit different from the comics but in a good way. Now other superhero movies need to step up their game. They have to meet this level of awesomeness or just become meh superhero movies! Pass the Chimichangas and make way, a new King has arrived!

Ryan Reynolds did an awesome job on this movie. I loved it and how he picked fun at the X-Men movies. There were so many quips, puns, future hashtags and past movie references I could not stop laughing. Bueller gives two thumbs way up! "It's a big house, it's funny that I only ever see you two around, it's like.... the studio can't afford another X-man" Lol! Definitely lives up to the hype. Love it so much!

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LoveYourself, Inc., an HIV and AIDS awareness advocacy group, has started the operations of its new HIV testing clinic and community center today (February 17) which is located along Taft-Buendia in Pasay City dubbed as LoveYourself Uni.

The new clinic reinforces the group's effort in providing free and confidential HIV testing and counseling, and promoting safer sex practices to curb the exploding HIV epidemic among men who have sex with men (MSMs) with 6.1 or 61 per 1000 person-years based on its old Malate clinic data from 2012-2015.

On a per age group data, clients ages 15-22 reached an 8.5 incidences, 23-28 have 5.6 incidences, and 29 years old and above have 4.8 incidences.

LoveYourself Executive Director Vinn Pagtakhan emphasized that "new intervention is needed" to augment the previous initiatives from all wellness and sexual health defenders.

This is why the clinic has a youthful vibe, wherein there are five counseling rooms, one function room and a larger reception area with larger holding capacity for clients who wish to avail of the free services LoveYourself is offering.