Globe Mobile Data Sustains Growth Momentum

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Above photo shows Globe President & CEO Ernest Cu (right) talks about the company’s remarkable financial performance in the first three months of the year supported by gains across data-related segments and steady customer uptake at a recent analyst briefing Shown with him are Globe Chief Commercial Officer Albert de Larrazabal (center) and Globe Acting Chief Finance Officer Rizza Maniego-Eala (left).

Globe Telecom’s mobile data revenues continued to underpin growth in the first three months of the year amid continuing demand for data services and popularity of data-driven products and applications as more and more consumers adopt a digital lifestyle. This is reflective of the company’s strategy to expand its mobile data footprint by continuously enhancing network capacities.

Mobile data revenues in the first quarter soared 62%, reaching P9.1 billion compared with P5.6 billion reported in the year-earlier period. When lumped with the company’s home broadband and corporate data revenues of P3.5 billion and P2.3 billion, respectively, the company’s total data revenues now represent 50% of its total service revenues, up from 36% in the year-earlier period. The company’s mobile data revenues also accounted for 40% of total mobile service revenues in the first quarter of 2016, compared with 26% contribution in the first quarter of 2015.

Globe President & CEO Ernest Cu said mobile data growth has drawn support from the company’s market-relevant data offers, availability of low-priced data capable devices and a strong and reliable data network. “We believe that the Globe brand is extremely strong in its positioning as the smartphone network of choice and the data growth is reflective of that. As the strategy is to continue to be aggressive in the market, we continue to make investments to enhance our wireless network so we have more capacity on the ground. We expect to see mobile data business to continue growing,” said Cu.

A steady growth in the company’s mobile customers, reaching 57.3 million at the end of the first quarter from 48.4 million in the year-earlier period also provided support for mobile data, Cu said. The company’s mobile revenues totaled P23.1 billion in the first quarter of the year, up 7% from P21.6 billion a year earlier. This supported consolidated revenues to reach P29.9 billion, a 14% jump from P26.2 billion in the year-earlier period. Net profit stood P4.3 billion, a 3% increase from P4.2 billion a year earlier.

Following a successful network modernization program that saw mobile data exploding in the Philippines, Globe has embarked on another nationwide infrastructure program to enhance the country's internet experience involving, among others, capacity expansion for its mobile network using different technologies including 3G, LTE and even Wi-Fi.

Mobile data explosion in the country, amid steady growth in smartphone penetration, requires more bandwidth than traditional voice and text messaging services. However, the total number of unique cell sites in the country is disproportionate against burgeoning data traffic. The Philippines, an archipelago, currently has about 17,000 cell sites. Comparing this to Vietnam, which has similar population density although in a contiguous land area, has 55,000 cell sites.

The marked increase in data traffic coupled with the lack of cell sites prompted Globe to call for support from local government units to help make the current condition conducive to build more cell sites and reduce the existing infrastructure gap. By building more sites, telco service providers will be able to provide better internet experience for its customers. Cu has emphasized that construction of additional cell sites addresses the need for additional bandwidth necessary in transmitting enormous amount of data. Today, building a cell site involves about 25 permits with at least 8 months lead time. LGU assistance can help reduce the lead time if not facilitate less permits. Aside from cell sites, another area that needs improvement is the harmonization of spectrum. Spectrum is needed for increased bandwidth especially for mobile data use.

As part of its effort to improve the internet experience of its customers, Globe has embarked on an initiative of creating an internet super highway nationwide. Specifically, the company plans to deploy fiber optics in 20,000 barangays by 2020, aimed at providing ultra-fast internet access to around 2 million homes nationwide. A pilot roll out of fiber broadband technology is already ongoing in Binondo, Manila, which when completed will provide world-class internet experience with speeds of up to 1Gbps by July 2016.

Pending the completion of an internet super highway, Globe deployed ultra-fast Wi-Fi connection with speeds of up to 100 Mbps in various Ayala malls namely Serendra, Glorietta, Trinoma, Ayala Center Cebu, Alabang Town Center, Marquee Mall, Market! Market!, UP Town Center, Harbor Point, Centrio, Fairview Terraces and Greenbelt.

Benzoyl Peroxide is the Best Acne Treatment

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Your Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas is convinced that Proactiv acne solution works as advertised. The secret ingredient to this miracle against acne? It's Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO) - the smart choice for acne medication!

Benzoyl Peroxide has been known to be a compound that fights acne from getting worse. What most people are afraid of are the misconceptions that surrounds it, such as, “your skin gets addicted to it” and more popularly, “quitting its application will make acne faster and with a vengeance”.

These are just some of the reasons why people tend to shy away from a relatively cheaper and effective way in treating acne. The only probable and logical reason to avoid BPO is having an allergic reaction to it.

To better understand why people should have it as an option for acne treatment, an understanding on how it works, what it does, and how to use it properly, should take away all the misconceptions that surrounds BPO.

Acne happens when a pore blocked by excess keratin, sebum, and dead skin cells comes in contact with bacteria which cause the inflammation. What BPO does is that it breaks down into benzoic acid and oxygen, and the oxygen acts as a free radical destroying the cells that blocks the pores along with the bacteria growing on it.

During the early stages of acne formation, BPO is known to be effective in preventing these outbreaks on the skin. The BPO scare however, comes from its misuse. Having too much of it on the skin, making sure that the acne-causing bacteria is eliminated from the surface, gives the skin unnecessary stress than protection. That stress leaves the skin more vulnerable to more acne outbreaks after quitting from BPO treatment. Using BPO the right way, meaning more strategically, on skin could help drastically minimize the formation of acne and prevent future outbreaks.

8 Best Online Shopping Apps for Android

Wazzup Pilipinas!

What can be more interesting for a shopaholic that he or she gets some luxurious ways to choose the targeting product? Well this is true that the online shopping tactics are polishing everyone’s lives in aesthetic ways. Utilizing these services, people are saving their times and hence also the effort. Such shopping strategies are assisting in multitasking and hence people can do shopping as well as other tasks. Now there are some names that have brought shopping applications for the Android platform that is even a more efficient purchase approach. Following are the few essential titles.

1. Lazada

Headquartered in Singapore, Lazada Group has its own name in the world of online shopping. It was founded by Rocket Internet in 2011 and has operated sites in various countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines and Malaysia. Its mobile application for Android is highly interactive and user-friendly. It allows to access millions of products to be purchased via application.

2. Zalora

Zalora is another name having the parent organization called Rocket Internet. It is also well-known in the prime countries of Asia like Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Philippines and Vietnam and even in Australia and New Zealand. It usually focuses in the commodities of fashion products for women, men and kids. The application permits to pick up various brands and hence perform the secure payment procedure.

3. Kaymu
Kaymu is the online marketplace that is represented in more than 30 countries. With the services of customer to customer and business to customer, this platform serves a huge audience. By using the mobile app, users can view the products in detail and explore the quality images for better purchase.

4. Ensogo

Launched in 2010, Ensogo is not an ordinary shopping portal but it proposes number of discount deals on hotel accommodation, beauty treatments, spas services and restaurants. Its mobile app has colorful interface with explicit information regarding the special offers.

5. OLX

With the presence in more than 90 countries, Olx is one of the biggest free advertising website. The Android application is for accessing the ads of goods and also to sell them. From home apparels to bikes, everything can be bought and sold in just few clicks.

6. Ebay

The multinational corporation called EBay, founded in 1995, serves number of nations including Philippines. The application has captivating design and is quite easy for even the first time users. Searching sellers, tracking packages and leaving feedback are essential functionalities of this app.

7. MetroDeal

MetroDeal is quite a popular title in Philippines. From travel deals to shopping tactics, MetroDeal is the finest. Its app has the smooth design with the detailed information of unbeatable travel deals and lowest prices on available gadgets.

8. Shopee

Shopee is an imaginative platform for shopaholics of Philippines. From cosmetics to apparels, customers are allowed to get excited and enjoy the reasonable deals. Free browsing of listings and live chats are possible by this mobile app.



If you really want to relish some exclusive Android application designs and want to make the purchase more effortless then this list will surely assist you.

Get a Trip fro Two to Maldives from Shopback.ph

Wazzup Pilipinas!

REFER 200 FRIENDS TO USE SHOPBACK and you AUTOMATICALLY GET A TRIP FOR 2 TO MALDIVES! (So long as you are the first 5 to reach the 200 target anytime from 6 June to 6 July, 2016). 

Note that THIS IS NOT A RAFFLE, once you reach your target, you get the dream vacation for FREE.

So what do you need to do?

Simply refer 200 friends to sign up through your exclusive Sign Up Page (which we will specially create for you) and shop online from Lazada, ZALORA, iTrueMart, Agoda and 300 other online stores via ShopBack (they just need to go to ShopBack first and click the online shop where they want to make a purchase from).

So what are you waiting for? Register now by 29 May 2016 and start telling your friends about ShopBack and drink a Mojito by the pristine beaches of MALDIVES since here in ShopBack, it's SUMMER 4EVER!

REGISTER HERE: http://bit.ly/1TV8aVy

Mapúa – IEEE Week 2016: Inclusive Growth Driven by Innovation

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Mapúa Institute of Technology Student Branch of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc. (Mapúa – IEEE) will be hosting once again the Mapúa-IEEE Week with the theme Inclusive Growth Driven by Innovation. Inclusive Growth has been a major issue for the present Philippine Economy. The IEEE’s core purpose is to foster technological innovation and excellence for the benefit of humanity. Being a student branch of the IEEE, it is our mission for this year to promote innovation in our pursuit of inclusive growth as a nation.

The Mapúa-IEEE Week composes of activities such as Quiz Bee, Debate Championship, Workshop, Seminars and the 13th annual Project Design Competition. 

This week-long activity invites all the students, instructors and professors coming from the Philippine Section of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Student Branches specifically from De La Salle University – Manila (DLSU), University of the Philippines – Diliman (UP), University of Santo Tomas (UST), University of the East – Caloocan (UE) and Mapúa Institute of Technology – Manila (MIT) which will be the Host – School of the said event. The Mapúa-IEEE Week helps all the students, instructors, and professors coming from IEEE Philippine Section Student Branches to interact with other schools regarding the advancement of technology, technological innovation, research, and growth of skill and knowledge in technical – related professions.

The organizers of Mapúa - IEEE Week will be the officers of the Mapúa – IEEE which composes of committees to be manpowered by the respective staffs of each committee. The activites of the whole week will be as follows:

· Monday / Tuesday: Mapúa – IEEE Technical Seminars and Workshops
· Wednesday: Mapúa – IEEE Debate Championship
· Thursday: Mapúa – IEEE Quiz Bee
· Friday: Mapúa – IEEE 13th Annual Project Design Competition

The opening ceremony of the Mapúa-IEEE Week will be held on Monday to be followed by the Mapúa – IEEE Technical Seminars and Workshops The Mapúa – IEEE 13th Annual Project Design Competition will have its Exhibit of Posters for the entries of the participants which will be displayed at the North Circle.

Event Title: "IEEE Week 2016: Inclusive Growth Driven by Innovation"
Event Date: May 23-27, 2016
Event Location: North Circle, Mapùa Institute of Technology, Intramuros, Manila
Contact Person: Bien Carlo Halili
Contact Details: 0917 247 1038 (Mobile)

CHED@22: Sustaining and Advancing the Gains

Wazzup Pilipinas!

In celebration of the Commission on Higher Education’s 22nd Founding Anniversary, two events were held to recognize exceptional and high performing higher education institutions (HEIs) and academic programs.

CHED@22 kicks off with a flag-raising ceremony and opening of the State Universities and Colleges Products and Innovations Fair. Above photo shows (L-R) CHED Chairperson Patricia B. Licuanan, CHED Commissioners Alex B. Brillantes, Ruperto S. Sangalang, Minella C. Alarcon and Maria Cynthia Rose B. Bautista. 

 
Autonomous and Deregulated status were conferred on 75 private HEIs nationwide. To achieve this distinction, institutions should have an established track record of exceptional program performance and institutional quality, demonstrated mature internal quality assurance systems as shown in their high proportion of accredited programs, garnered Centers of Excellence and Centers of Development, attained international accreditation and certification, among others.

CHED Chairperson Patricia B. Licuanan underscored that “the long-term goal is to have a critical mass of Autonomous and Deregulated HEIs that have established their internal quality assurance systems and are capable of self-regulation.” The 75 HEIs represent 4% of the total 1,708 private institutions in the country. The target is to reach at least 10%. The CHED Chair also urged HEI officials to use the benefits of their status “wisely and well” and to aspire and work for constant improvement, which is a sign of maturity and quality.

Centers of Excellence (CoEs) and Centers of Development (CoDs) were awarded in various disciplines. A total of 432 Centers nationwide were recognized, 199 Centers of Excellence and 233 Centers of Development from 139 HEIs.

Center of Excellence is a distinction granted by CHED to an institution which demonstrates exemplary performance in its teaching, research and extension function, while, Center of Development is granted to an institution with the potential to provide excellent education as evidenced by above average performance in the three areas. 

Takeda Calls for Digital Healthcare Innovation Challenge for Better Healthcare to More People

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Takeda Healthcare Philippines Inc. launched the Digital ​Healthcare ​Innovation Challenge which aims to bring together healthcare and digital experts in search for a digital innovation solution targeting oncology. Along with Takeda’s commitment to engage digital healthcare in the Philippines we are also looking to learn about relevant business opportunities in this region. This will also be our initiative to venture into support and investment for the digital community.

Why Takeda?

Globally, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (Takeda), http://www.takeda.com, is a brand which is in the forefront of providing better health for people worldwide through leading innovation in medicine. And the same passion that drives them to a commitment to better health with a patient-centric approach is consistent all throughout the diversity in their organization making it a strong value both for the Takeda brand and the health care industry.


Why Digital Healthcare Innovation Challenge?

“Takeda is committed to innovation, in fact it is one of our values in Takeda-ism. This is something we try to do every single day; find ways of being innovative so we can serve and support more patients.” ​ - ​Gabriel Georgy, Country Director

Most of the industries in the global scene have some disruption to make better lives out of innovative ideas. In the generation of smartphones and tablets, solutions are made available in ways we have never imagined before, and we believed that as part of Takeda’s commitment to providing better health care, our approach should also be aligned with the changing times. And by alignment, we mean working on the grassroots level with technologists. One way to do it is through our Digital ​Healthcare ​Innovation Challenge. It is not just a challenge of wit and knowledge, but of passion and innovation. By opening up the door to tech innovators, Takeda will get better access to the solutions that will help bring health care closer to the people that we serve and work with.


Who is this for?
The Takeda Digital Healthcare Innovation Challenge is for tech startups with matured digital solutions that can help Takeda provide better health care in the long term. This is an open-call for developers, programmers, incubators and mentors who have the right people that can represent and pitch the best solution that Takeda can help build, mentor and incubate.


What happens next?

The Takeda D​HIC does not stop at finding a winner; this will be an ongoing effort on the part of Takeda to support and promote healthtech solutions relevant to their patient-centric products. In the long term, the Takeda D​HIC in the Philippines will and can be our prototype for bringing this agenda to some other parts of the globe.

Winner(s) of the pitching competition will receive support from Takeda and our designated partners. The goal is to provide mentorship and/or funding support to the startups as Takeda focuses more on bigger agenda that are aligned to our corporate vision.


Schedule

The scheduled date of the Takeda Digital ​Healthcare ​Innovation Challenge is 6th August 2016 in Manila.

How a Serviced and Virtual Office Can Help Traveling Entrepreneurs

Wazzup Pilipinas!

A serviced office or virtual office can provide many benefits to a traveling entrepreneur. When traveling, it's inconvenient to have to lease office space or meet in a public area like the hotel's bar to conduct serious business with clients or investors. A serviced office makes more sense for the business traveler.


Flexible Lease Agreements

Owners rent out the offices with short-term leases. It can be as little as a few days to an entire month for the lease agreement. In a traditional office, an entrepreneur would have to sign a lease that could keep him or her in the space for at least a year. That wouldn't make much sense for a traveling entrepreneur who might only be staying in that location for a week or two. 

Pay for What You Use

If you need a conference room for that big meeting with a new client, a serviced office owner can rent you the space on an hourly basis. You can use the facilities and services that you need without paying for the ones that you don't. They also have staff you can use at the facility to portray a polished and professional business appearance. 

Testing New Areas

Many entrepreneurs travel to test new markets. While they are looking for office space for rent in Makati, they can figure out if that's the market they want to invest in by testing the area first with a serviced office. You can test multiple markets before settling on a space that will require a long-term lease agreement. 

Equipment and Staff

You won't need to hire your own staff or buy new equipment while traveling for business. Serviced office spaces have owners who keep technology current for their renters. Many offices have fast Internet connections, speedy computer systems, copiers, faxes and other office equipment needed to run your business while you're traveling. 

No Downtime

When you are traveling for your business, whether it's to enter a new market or land a client, you'll have to equip and setup a new office. That requires money for desks, chairs and file cabinets. You'll need office machinery like copiers as well as printers and the accessories that go with them like toner. With a serviced office, you won't have any downtime while the office is readied for your arrival. While trying to find office space for rent in Makati, you'll be able to have a fully-functioning office to work in as you wait. 

Maintenance

Many people forget the maintenance involved in running an office. There has to be cleaners to keep the office spotless. You'll need technicians to maintain the office equipment too. With a serviced office, that's all included in the fee when you rent the space. For BGC office space for rent, you won't need to hire maintenance workers since they're provided for you.

Utilities

This is another monthly fee you don't have to worry about when you rent a serviced office space. It's an expense that is included in the fee. You won't have to worry about paying a deposit to get the lights turned on in your new space. It's all done for you.

There are many advantages of using a serviced office facility or virtual office when traveling. The entrepreneur who is on the road often won't have to work out of their hotel room or the downstairs restaurant. He or she will be able to conduct business in a professional manner with all the equipment they could need for their business.

DOE Advisory on Unscrupolous Communications

Wazzup Pilipinas!

While the government is on transition period after a successful conduct of elections, the Department of Energy (DOE) earnestly warns the public and energy stakeholders regarding unscrupulous individuals posing as Secretary Zenaida Y. Monsada, other DOE officials and employees, and even as part of the transition team of Presumptive President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

The DOE notes that some individuals may take advantage of this crucial period to solicit money to fund purported activities of the DOE or other energy agencies, such as planning, team building and other events. Please be warned that they may send bogus emails, text messages, or place calls representing themselves as members of the transition team or as DOE officials to deceive the recipient of the call that the communication is legitimate.

Moreover, the DOE reiterates its adherence to the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees (Republic Act 6713) which prohibits officials and employees from soliciting money.

In this regard, we enjoin the vigilance of everyone by reporting any form of communication from these individuals, and verify the authenticity of these messages with the DOE through the Office of the Secretary’s official telephone numbers: (02) 840-2134 and (02) 840-2008.

Photo: abs-cbn.com

Huawei Adopts Globe Telecom’s Project 1 Phone Recycling and Recovery Program

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Huawei donates one van full of various e-waste as initial contribution to Globe Telecom’s Project 1 Phone Recycling and Recovery Program.

The above photo shows Huawei VP for Sales Bruce Liu and Globe SVP for Corporate Communications Yoly Crisanto seal the partnership agreement with a handshake. Huawei Corporate Communications Head Wellington Liutao (left) and Globe VP for Enterprise Sales Dion Asencio (right) act as witnesses.

Leading global ICT solutions provider Huawei Technologies Philippines, Inc. has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Globe Telecom on the adoption of Project 1 Phone e-waste recycling program even as it turned over one van full of various electronic waste as initial donation.

The contract signing and e-waste turnover was led by Huawei Vice President for Sales Bruce Liu and Corporate Communications Head Wellington Liutao. It was in response to the P1P campaign initiated by Globe Business among its corporate clients to encourage donations of individual and company e-waste such as non-working or damaged phones and tablets; mobile phone batteries, chargers, and accessories; printers, cartridges, and personal computers, among other electronic items.

“Our vision for sustainability is to Connect the Future so we are happy to be Globe Telecom’s partner in this endeavor. We have a responsibility to contribute to the markets in which we operate internationally. Huawei is prepared to leverage its ICT expertise to increase efficiency, reduce resource consumption, and build a green, low-carbon society. We will continue to invest 10% of our annual revenue to Research and Development to ensure that we continue to innovate technologies and develop green products and solutions, “ Liu said.

#BuyOutSlavery Campaign Launched by History Asia, Not For Sale and CNN International

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Not for Sale, a San Francisco-based NGO, in partnership with HISTORY Asia and the CNN Freedom Project,  announced the launch of the #BuyOutSlavery campaign. Created to raise awareness about modern slavery through an online social movement across Singapore and other parts of Southeast Asia, the campaign will be promoted throughout Southeast Asia’s most popular e-commerce websites. The campaign is inspired by the upcoming HISTORY Asia premiere of programing event, “Roots”, on 31 May, 9pm.

The #BuyOutSlavery campaign aims to shine a light on the plight of enslaved individuals today and expose shoppers across Asia to the reality and prevalence of modern slavery. While shopping on participating sites, consumers will be encouraged to contribute to liberating modern-day slaves by making a donation to Not For Sale and also by sharing their actions online. All funds raised will support Not For Sale in their efforts to provide survivors of slavery and at-risk communities with shelter and stability, education, healthcare and legal services, and economic opportunities.

According to David Batstone, (Founder and President, Not For Sale), “The impetus for this campaign came from the upcoming premiere on HISTORYTM Asia of “Roots,” a multifaceted, compelling and emotional story about the triumph of the human spirit, about identity, family, dignity and courage - seen through the lens of slavery-era America. Slavery in those historical terms no longer exists. However, modern day slavery is very much alive in all corners of the globe.”

Slavery is an ever-growing blight on humanity that must be eradicated. There are over 30 million slaves in the world today, the highest number in the history of mankind. Men, women, and children are sold into this $150 billion industry where they are exploited for sex and labour. Slavery is present in almost every supply chain in every industry today including food, electronics, vehicle and apparel manufacturing. Creating awareness of this atrocious problem is the first step in conquering it.

“We are pleased that through our groundbreaking series, ‘Roots’, we have been able to help create and participate in a campaign that is focused on driving positive change. By reaching out to and enlisting the help of our industry partners and contacts, we are confident that we can assist Not For Sale in creating extensive awareness for this worthy cause.” said PremKamath, (Deputy Managing Director, A+E Networks Asia).

“The aim of the CNN Freedom Project is to shine a spotlight on the horrors of modern-day slavery and champion those who have dedicated their lives to ending it. We are delighted to support this campaign to bring greater awareness of this critical issue to millions of people in Asia and around the world,” added Executive Vice President and Managing Director, CNN International, Tony Maddox.

Passion for online shopping is on the rise and plays a key role in the lives of Southeast Asians. By using these e-commerce sites, the campaign educates the audience about the products they are buying and what to look out for. Brands and celebrities are lending their names, people and resources to the cause.

Visit buyoutslavery.com to find out more on how you can make a difference to the lives of these modern slaves. To join the conversation, head over to HISTORYTM Asia‘s Facebook page (facebook.com/HISTORYasia ) or #BuyOutSlavery.

Based on Alex Haley’s 1976 novel, “Roots” recounts the journey of one family and their will to survive and ultimately carry on their legacy despite hardship. The original series aired in the United States and around the world in 1977 to massive audiences. Developed by HISTORYTM,the new series boasts a stellar cast of award-winning actors. The eight-hour event miniseries is distributed internationally by A+E Studios International.

SM Store #StyleUpMovement: An Invitation to Challenge Your Fashion Boundaries

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Following the successful take off of the SM Style Up Campaign of SM Makati, the SM Store launches the #StyleUpMovement: an Instagram Takeover Challenge, as SM highlights the three main trends in today’s fashion scene: Color Blocking, Athleisure, and Patterns on Patterns, together with the Style Up ambassadors; Jess Connelly, Kiana Valenciano, and Mark Mcmahon.

The SM Store is at it again – and now, extending it to a bigger crowd. Launching a nationwide online contest that challenges Filipinos, of all shapes and sizes, not only to make your OOTD game strong, but also to challenge you to free yourself from your fashion boundaries.

The all-new character of The SM Store led to the birth of the Style Up campaign, following its bolder attitude that lets your curate your wardrobe according to your liking - a rather trendier, more straightforward, with a little bit of to a little too much of edginess.

Above photo shows Jess and Mark rockin their athleisure wear.

This Instagram-based challenge, called #StyleUpMovement will run for 4 weeks, starting on May 16 until June 12, 2016.

The #StyleUpMovement highlights three key trends that we know of today:

(1) Color blocking – mix of vibrant Style Up Colors
(2) Athleisure – sports luxe with a punch of vibrant Style Up colors
(3) Patterns on patterns – geometric prints in line with the Style Up theme

Flash Surpasses the Definition of Metal with its New Flash Plus 2

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Flash upgrades the excellent photographing DNA of the Flash series with the launch of its new Flash Plus 2. But on top of its rich, experiential camera features, the newest addition to the Flash roster also boasts of pioneering functions such as fingerprint recognition, Hi-Fi sound effect, and fast battery charging—all boxed in a sophisticated metal case designed for the high- and medium-end market.

Flash has finally responded to its users’ concerns by offering a smartphone that surpasses user convenience, sound effects and battery usage. According to Albert Wong, General Manager of Flash 3C Limited, the continuous innovation of the Flash series marks the brand’s independence.

“The independence of the Flash brand means we have entered a complete new stage of development. What remains unchanged is that we will consistently follow the mission of Flash at its birth and stay connected with the young Internet consumers who enjoy sharing and pursue quality. We will get to know their specific needs through continuous interaction to create high quality smart hardware that is fun and enjoyable, offering the users a lifestyle of seeking our true selves,” Wong said.

Deadma: Wake Up! You’re Dead.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

“Stay alive. Stay hungry.”

In this year’s Tanghalang Tikom, the annual silent theatre arts competition for junior Communication Arts students of the University of Santo Tomas, witness the spectacular debut of Silakbo Productions as they proudly present: “Deadma” written by Derly Shayne Joven, Ericka De Guia, Gabrielle Columbres, Ana Mia, and Danielle Montayre.

Breathing does not mean you are alive.

Deadma explores the dark comedy genre, featuring an indifferent mother and five peculiar personalities in a wake setting. In the midst of eccentricity and strange encounters, the mother who is devoid of any passion, learns that desires make us human. People have appetites they cannot control and this is the definition of their existence.

Produced by Yasmin Olga Salamanca and directed by Bianca Navarro, Zekiel Carbajal, Arianne Pineda, Ness Olitoquit, Jane Bron, and Sophia Amolador, Deadma will teach the interrelation of extreme hunger and honest living. This will be staged on May 20, 2016, with the time slots 1pm, 3pm and 5pm at Rm. 11A, Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P. Building, University of Santo Tomas.

For inquiries please contact Jane Bron at (09174014519) or Ana Mia at (09392359086) or visit our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/silakbo2016.

Behold the dead come alive this coming Friday!

Akbayan Youth: Execution, Not the Solution to Crime

Wazzup Pilipinas!

A youth group criticized the possible reintroduction of death penalty in the Philippines, says executions will only continue the cycle of violence in the country.

"How can we start the healing process if we continue the cycle of violence? Death penalty by hanging promotes retribution instead of rehabilitation, revenge rather than justice. The country still recovering from the divisiveness of the previous national election will only bleed further with such a controversial proposition”, said Paeng David, National Chairperson of Akbayan Youth.

David further pointed out that death penalty is not the solution to criminality and drug addiction, and will only serve to target the poor and vulnerable.

“Execution is not the solution. Amnesty International reports even show that two thirds of all countries have turned their backs against the barbaric practice, and more are expected to also abolish it. Other reports show no marked difference between crime rate in states that have death penalty and those who have no such policy," emphasized David

"Apart from being ineffective, death penalty is also anti-poor. In a justice system like ours, only the rich can afford good legal representation and the poor are left to be condemned to death,” continued David.

The group forwarded that instead of bringing back the death penalty, the government should focus on reforming the justice system and promoting rehabilitative criminal justice in the country.

"A critical step to curbing criminality is to make sure our justice system works and that it provides fair judgment, regardless of who and how rich the person to be made to account is. Unless we ensure that trials are not rigged to favor the rich, the chances of executing the innocent will be great," added David.

“Moreover, those who stray away from the law should never be stripped of their humanity. The young people who take drugs deserve to be given health and rehabilitative services to get them away from the influence of drugs. We extremely hope the new adminsitration would reconsider, and instead of employing vindictive justice, choose to promote rehabilitative justice and give back to our youth their chance at a good life,” said David.

Finally, the youth group called for all Filipinos to rally together against public executions.

The fight against death penalty is a fight for our humanity. Different our votes might have been during elections, but together we must unite against such efforts to curb our humanity," concluded David.