DOE-IIEE Join Forces to Audit the Country’s Power System

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Department of Energy (DOE) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines (IIEE) on 8 August 2016. The parties agreed to organize Task Forces consisting of DOE personnel and IIEE members that will conduct the technical audit of the generation, transmission and distribution facilities in the country.

Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi said: “It is imperative for us to immediately determine the causes, whether technical or contractual, of the current power supply situation. We have to find a lasting solution to this recurring problem as well as establishing and institutionalizing far-reaching formulae, because it is our people who are bearing the brunt of power interruptions and we cannot allow that to continue.”

On a pro-bono basis, the DOE tapped IIEE for being the only Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC)-accredited professional association in the field of electrical engineering with the necessary technical knowledge, expertise and competence to assist the DOE in addressing the current power situation. The IIEE has 47,000 licensed and competent electrical engineers and master electricians across the country.

Pursuant to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), the DOE and IIEE agreed to look into current mechanisms aimed at ensuring the safety, efficiency, quality, reliability and security of the power system.

The audit is also envisioned to disentangle and unbundle the flaws in the generation-transmission-distribution chain that cause deficiencies in our power supply.

The agreement was brought to the table because of the recent spate of power supply reserve deficiencies due to forced outages of major plants in Luzon. These deficiencies resulted to rotational brownouts in Metro Manila and nearby provinces in the past few days.

Present during the signing ceremony were (L-R) IIEE National President Larry C. Cruz and DOE Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi, along with Atty. Felix Wimpy Fuentebella, DOE Spokesperson; Mr. Ramon P. Ayaton, Executive Director; Engr. Rogelio M. Avenido, 1986 National President; Engr. Alex C. Cabugao, 2014 National President; Engr. Florigo C. Varona, VP for External Affairs; Pete L. Ilagan, DOE Spokesperson; Engr. Florencio D. Berenguel, National Auditor; Engr. Ariel P. Duran, Former Metro Manila Regional Governor; Engr. Hipolito A. Leoncio, 2008 National President; Atty. Gerardo D. Erguiza Jr.; Engr. Arwin L. Ardon, PNOC-RC President and Dir. Arthus T. Tenazas, DOE Legal Services.

The DOE assures the public that it continues to monitor the developments in the power industry and to exhaust all possible measures to resolve the power supply situation in the country.

Globe Telecom Positions Davao in Global Connectivity Map

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Globe Telecom is positioning Davao in the global connectivity map by aggressively building on its network infrastructure in the city that includes the construction of the Philippine end of an international undersea cable system, the only facility of such kind in the country to directly connect Davao with the rest of the world.

“Both facilities will help underpin local economic growth as it will provide support for the expanding business requirement for data not only in Mindanao region but also in the country as a whole. Both the data center and the undersea cable systems are critical in ensuring the resiliency of the country’s internet connectivity with the rest of world, particularly US, where much of internet content is sourced,” said Globe President & CEO Ernest Cu.

The two facilities will play a major role in providing the ideal IT Infrastructure and International connectivity requirement not only of businesses located in Davao, but also for enterprises in Luzon and Visayas in line with the company’s vision of enhancing business capacities of enterprises and help usher the Philippines to become a digital nation, said Cu. "Enterprises located in northern and central Philippines may consider the data center as the primary site for Mindanao and secondary site of Luzon and Visayas in the event of natural or man-made disasters, explained Cu, emphasizing that the two facilities will help strengthen the company’s overall network resiliency ensuring its customers will have seamless connectivity, and providing constant support for next-generation technologies."

According to him, the data center, which is situated in the same location as the SEA-US cable landing station, will cater to BPOs, financial institutions, internet service providers and other content providers in southern Philippines. The project, once completed, will address ICT requirements of major trade and industry centers in Mindanao region, he emphasized.

Cu explained the Globe Business’ Davao Data Center is the best location for customers looking for a data center in the Mindanao region as it is located within the region’s central business hubs. He said the facility is Seismic Zone 4 compliant, which means that it has been retrofitted for earthquake safety. Also, infrastructure and redundant security solutions have been put in place to ensure that systems remain continuously available and secure. The data center is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2017.

The SEA-US cable system, on the other hand, will ease the country’s dependence on international cable systems routed through northern Philippines, said Cu. This could prevent a repeat of a 2008 incident where major international cables were broken because of the Taiwan earthquake. As a result, the Philippines became isolated for a few days in terms of internet connectivity.

To date, Globe already completed the construction of the Davao Power Feed Equipment, a facility that will address the energy requirement of SEA-US cable system. At a project cost of approximately $250 million, the SEA-US undersea cable system will provide superior latency, delivering an additional 20 Terabits per/second capacity, utilizing the latest 100 gigabits per second transmission technology. Such additional capacity will cater to the exponential growth of bandwidth between the two continents.

The SEA-US cable is being built by a consortium of 7 international telecommunication companies, that include Globe Telecom and will link 5 countries and territories that include Manado (Indonesia), Davao (Philippines), Piti (Guam), Oahu (Hawaii, United States) and Los Angeles (California, United States). The SEA-US project will be approximately 15,000 kilometers in length, provides route diversity from the North Pacific, avoiding earthquake prone areas in East Asia. The cable system is expected to provide more efficient connectivity to approximately 1.5 billion people. Aside from Globe Telecom, members of the SEA-US consortium include PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia International (Telin), Telkom USA, GTI Corporation (a member of the Globe Group of companies), RAM Telecom International (RTI), Teleguam Holdings (GTA) and Hawaiian Telcom (HTEL).

In addition to the construction of the data center and the SEA-US undersea cable system, the telecommunications operator is also embarking on an aggressive deployment of fiber-optic broadband technology and utilization of additional spectrum assets such as those in the 700 megahertz (MHz), 1800 MHz and 2600 MHz bands in Davao City. Furthermore, Globe is also rolling out a fiber optic cable system in the country, including Davao. The objective is to create an internet superhighway by deploying fiber in 20,000 barangays by 2020 and provide ultra-fast internet access to around 2 million homes nationwide.

*Photo Caption: Globe President & CEO Ernest Cu (2nd from right) and Davao City chairman of the Association of Barangay Captains and Councilor January Duterte (3rd from left) lead the opening of the power feed equipment site of the SEA-US cable landing facility located in Barangay Talomo, Davao City.

PH Auto Industry Vehicle Sales Exceed Expectations

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Carmudi Philippines—the local arm for the leading vehicle platform around the world—expressed confidence that online vehicle sales in the country will follow suit over the stellar sales performance achieved by the local automotive industry in closing the second quarter of 2016.

Carmudi Philippines Managing Director Abhi Mohan said that following the high vehicle sales numbers, they are expecting constant growth on all sectors concerning vehicle sales.

“We believe that the online sales atmosphere would follow suit in providing a strong commercial environment for the local automotive industry. For example, since more and more people are buying brand-new units, more pre-owned vehicles will be up for sale,” he explained.

He was referring to the 167,481 sales record posted by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) and Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) for the first six months of 2016, posting a 27.4 percent surge against the 131,465 sales tallied in the same period last year. The said figures also surpassed highest monthly record.

Citing his previous claim that vehicle sales for the second and third quarter of 2016 would pose a challenge in the annual sales target for the year, Mohan now expresses confidence that those numbers will be met, and eventually exceeded.

“I could never be happier that I was wrong regarding the turnout of sales. This proves that the Philippine automotive industry would enjoy a remarkable sales performance all throughout the year,” Mohan said.

According to Mohan, he was surprised to learn about the figures, saying that despite the challenges for June, automotive sales remain stellar.

Medical Series Set In A World Of Crime And Mystery Enthralls Viewers With Its Dark Charm

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Phenomenal TV series Body of Proof proves to be a masterful piece of work which mesmerizes viewers with the shadowy appeal of each episode.

Dr. Megan Hunt was the head neurosurgeon at a Philadelphia hospital. She eventually lost her job due to an unfortunate accident which caused her to have paresthesia, a condition brought about by severe nerve damage and which brings about tingling and numbness to her hands. Without prior awareness of the condition, she performed an operation in which the patient died.

After a few years, Dr. Hunt was able to acquire a job as a medical examiner. Considering her extensive experience as a medical practitioner, she is able to dig deeper into some of the most mind-boggling crimes performed on a dead person’s body. Mimicking a seemingly modern day Sherlock Holmes, Dr. Hunt utilizes extraordinary ways of solving the puzzles. While on the job, she is supported by her boss, Dr. Kate Murphy, and her fellow medical examiner, Peter Dunlop, who is a former policeman. Dr. Hunt may be the best in her field, but how does she juggle her personal and work life with the pressures from the police department?

Body of Proof is created by Christopher Murphey. It stars Dana Delaney as Dr. Megan Hunt, Jeri Ryan as Dr. Kate Murphy, and Nicholas Bishop as Peter Dunlop.

Catch Body of Proofon Sony Channel everyThursday at 8:50pm.

Sony Channel is available on SKYCable Channel 35, Cignal Digital TV Channel 60, Destiny Cable Channel 62, Cable Link Channel 39.

Hontiveros to Duterte: You Can’t Destroy Oligarchy by Giving Marcos a Hero’s Burial

Wazzup Pilipinas!

“For someone who publicly disapproves of oligarchs, President Duterte’s decision to give the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos a hero’s burial is the height of contradiction.”

This was the statement issued today by Akbayan Senator Risa Hontiveros as she opposed the plan by the government to bury the remains of Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (LNMB).

In a resolution she filed on Monday, Hontiveros said that allowing the former President to be buried at the cemetery will only cause further divisiveness and reopen old wounds, especially as the country is in the process of providing reparations to Martial Law victims.

“President Duterte cannot end the rule of oligarchs in the country by honoring the very man who created a crony oligarchy during Martial Law,” Hontiveros said.

Hontiveros argued that Marcos does not qualify to be buried at the heroes' cemetery. She said that while the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) regulation regarding the allocation of cemetery plots at the LNMB allows for the burial of former presidents, an exception was provided for those who were convicted of offenses involving moral turpitude.

“In the case of Hilao v. Estate of Marcos, the jury found the estate of defendant Ferdinand Marco liable to 10,059 plaintiffs for the acts of torture, summary execution and disappearance. This conviction should suffice to disqualify Marcos from being buried at the heroes’ cemetery,” Hontiveros explained.

The neophyte senator said that the Duterte government should just lay the remains of the late strongman in his hometown or some other place “that will not serve to distort history, assail democracy and insult all those who fought and died to end the dictatorship.”

“This is the more appropriate resolution that the government can pursue on this matter rather than yield to the Marcoses’ attempt to paint a rosy picture of the dictatorship, rehabilitate their image and whitewash their crimes against the people,” Hontiveros ended.

‘Teen Wolf’ Star Holland Roden to Fly to Manila for AsiaPOP Comicon 2016

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Things are looking to be monsterrific as AsiaPOP Comicon Manila 2016 (APCC Manila) revealed Hollywood actress Holland Roden, as the latest celebrity guest to invade the biggest pop culture gathering slated on August 26 to 28 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

Roden is best known for playing the smart and beautiful Lydia Martin on the MTV series Teen Wolf. She has also played supporting roles in other popular series such as CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Lost, Community, Criminal Minds, and Grey's Anatomy. She is also a host for MTV, doing various fashion and entertainment segments for the channel, MTV.com, and the brand MTVStyle.

For the fans of Roden, APCC Manila is offering Autograph and Photograph session tickets with the stunning celebrity, which will be available soon for purchase on SM Tickets website, https://smtickets.com/, or at all SM Tickets outlets. Autograph and Photograph tickets will also be available for purchase on event days.

APCC Manila 2016 tickets are now available via SM Tickets with ticket prices PhP550 (one-day pass), PhP850 (two-day pass), and PhP1,050 (three-day pass). All these will give the ticketholder access to stage activities, performances, and the main show floor. The event is free for children aged five years and below for all days, but a valid identification is required for verification purposes before entering the show floor.

A special Geek Bundle is also available at PhP3500 for the FIRST 100 customers which includes an event lanyard, tote bag, cape, a 3-day pass, and a 1/12 Iron Man Mark XL "Shotgun" collectible figure from Comicave Studios.

For more information and event updates, please visit asiapopcomicon.com/manila

and official Facebook Page facebook.com/apccmanila

Fortinet FortiGuard Labs Cites Increased Cyber Threat Activity in Brazil

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Fortinet’s FortiGuard Labs cybersecurity threat report takes a look at the nature of attacks – how attackers get in, how they manage to persist inside networks, what they want, and who they are. It also provides insight into three key areas of concern that our FortiGuard Labs team has identified, and they bear reviewing here.

2016 Rio Olympics:

Cyberattacks during the Olympic games are not new. We have seen a spike of attacks focused on the Olympics – including targeting vendors and spectators – beginning as far back as the 2004 Summer Olympics in Greece. However, there are three main reasons why the 2016 Rio Olympics deserves special attention:

1. Analysis seems to indicate that cyberthreats and attacks are not (yet) a priority for Brazil. According to the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) ranking of global risks, Brazil only ranks concerns about cyberattacks as #23, and data fraud/theft at #16. This is concerning since countries like the US, Japan, Germany, Netherlands, and a few others rank cyberattacks as their #1 business risk. Given the high profile of the Olympic games, we would expect the risks of cyberattack and data theft to be ranked much higher for Brazil.

2. The volume of malicious and phishing artifacts (i.e. domain names and URLs) in Brazil is on the rise. In June, Brazil’s percentage increase was higher in three of four categories in Fortinet’s report when compared with the global percentage increase. The highest percentage growth was in the malicious URL category at 83% compared to 16% for the rest of the world.

3. As the 2016 Rio Olympics unfold, the history of these increased attacks will undoubtedly continue and FortiGuard Labs is already seeing indicators of repeat techniques such as domain lookalikes for payment fraud and malicious websites or URLs targeting event and government officials.

“Behavior Blending”:
We are seeing signs of increasingly sophisticated methods to help attackers persist inside systems they have breached. It is something we call “behavior blending.”

As the name implies, behavior blending is a technique used by criminals that allows them to blend in with everyone else on a compromised network. Once an attacker succeeds in acquiring valid user credentials, they proceed to assume the identity of the user through monitoring and learning the online behaviors of the authorized credential owner. They then attempt mimic as closely as possible the normal behavior patterns of that user. This allows them to remain unnoticed by the latest generation of automated analysis tools searching for anomalous behaviors.

Of course, this requires considerable research for success. As it’s very difficult to understand and replicate normal behavior patterns right away, we have been able to identify threat actors before they become camouflaged. Traditionally, this sort of obfuscation is difficult even for seasoned penetration experts with authorized access to systems. But new tools are emerging to speed up and enhance this process. Because this evasion technique has a lot of potential for thwarting detection, we expect to see more of it as the technique is refined and new tools are developed to better mimic the behavior of a credentialed target. It also represents a new challenge for defenders and security vendors looking to identify sophisticated attacks based on behavior analysis.

Increased Threats:

Overall, we continue to see an increase in threat activity. This isn’t news, per se, but the implications are worth considering.

First, we are seeing the return of old threats and attack vectors, as well as the continued persistence of classic attacks, such as Conficker and ransomware, through updated variants. Of course, this begs the question: Why, after all the money and research being spent on security, are not only the number of attacks increasing, but many older attacks continuing to persist? Surely, the sophisticated cybercriminal community wouldn’t still be using these if they weren’t successful.

The answer, of course, is complicated. New user devices and applications, new communications methods, the rise of virtualized and cloud-based networking, and things like IoT continue to expand the attack surface. And many organizations continue to adopt and deploy these new technologies before security has rotated to protect them. And far too many organizations are simply skating by on doing the absolute minimum hoping they get overlooked, or because the tradeoff between productivity and security seems too high.

But there is another issue at work here: it’s the industry’s general approach to security that is a critical part of the problem. It’s clear that increased spending on traditional, isolated security devices isn't working, because networks are still getting broken into pretty consistently. Like the old saying goes, we keep doing the same thing over and over again hoping for a different result. It turns out that the classic arms race approach is a zero sum game.

Companies need something different. Which is why Fortinet, the original innovator of cutting edge ASIC technology designed to increase performance while keeping costs under control, has recently announced the Fortinet Security Fabric.

Of course, a number of vendors have made noise about security platforms and solutions. But until now, none have truly delivered an integrated security architecture designed to unify management, centralize and coordinate threat detection and intelligence, and provide a dynamically coordinated response to threats anywhere across the distributed network, from IoT to the cloud. The Fortinet Security Fabric represents a complete rethinking of how security is to be designed, implemented, and managed, allowing organizations to stop playing catch-up with cybercriminals and finally get out in front of the threat community.

Download and read the report.

Learn more about the Fortinet Security Fabric.


Source & Read more:

https://blog.fortinet.com/2016/08/01/fortinet-fortiguard-labs-cites-increased-cyber-threat-activity-in-brazil-deserving-special-attention-in-coming-weeks

PLDT Enterprise Supports The Philippine Virtual Reality Conference and Mobile VR Jam

Wazzup Pilipinas!

PLDT Enterprise, through its emerging technologies business unit, Disruptive Business Group (DBG), aims to drive awareness for Virtual Reality (VR) technologies in the country with its support of the recently concluded Philippine Mobile VR Jam and Virtual Reality Conference.

The 1st Philippine Mobile VR Jam and Virtual Reality Conference provided participants with a first look at the most promising projects in the country through a series of workshops and seminars. It was organized by VR Philippines, a group of virtual reality developers and enthusiasts dedicated to promoting the advancement of virtual reality technology. Among the attendees were software developers across the country.

Niko Peralta, Head of PLDT DBG’s Digital Mobility R&D said, “PLDT Enterprise is proud to support the burgeoning VR industry. As part of the PLDT Group’s digital pivot, we are constantly on the look-out for new-frontier solutions that will further the advancement of today’s digital enterprise. Start-ups can always rely on our support by which they can build on these newer tech.”

PLDT and SMART’s support of the Philippine Mobile VR Jam and Virtual Reality Conference events underscore its commitment to be at the forefront of the dawning VR technology revolution in the country. “We view virtual reality as technology that today’s enterprises can potentially utilize to deliver more engaging and immersive customer experiences,” said Lemelen Palad, DBG Product Development Manager for M2M and IOT. “A more personalized approach in the ever-growing mobile-first consumer market dictates that businesses today have to be more creative in the way they reach out to their customers,” Palad added.

The event series culminated with the “Virtual Reality Conference” which featured exhibits by various software companies, displaying an end-to-end VR ecosystem from design and production, including proposed commercial applications. Business models include gamification, real-estate, first-person training modules, among others.

Joey Limjap, VP & Head of PLDT ICT Research & Development, added, “We know that VR is still at its nascent stage, and are delighted to be a part of the Philippine Virtual Reality Conference and help create greater awareness of this fascinating and exciting technology. Of course, our PLDT Innolab will always be open to the new technologies like VR and serve as an incubator to further develop it’s potential.”
*Photo caption: From left to right: Cristopher David (VR Philippines), Joey Limjap (PLDT Innolab), Mark Joseph Basibas (Mobile VR Jam participant), Paolo Espiritu (Mobile VR Jam participant), John Hay Supetran (Mobile VR Jam participant), Michael Gaerlan (Samsung), and Lemelen Palad (DBG).

Naxional South American Diner: Family Recipes From Over 10 South American Countries

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Head over to one of the newest restaurants in Bonifacio Global City today and start your day with plenty of South American-themed dishes. Naxional South American Diner has recently opened at the 2nd floor of Uptown Parade (9th Avenue corner 38th street) to serve gastronomical delights heavily-inspired by traditional, home-cooked family recipes from over 10 different South American countries like Brazil, Venezuela, and Peru.

At a press conference held on August 8, 2016, just a few days before its grand opening on August 12, Christi McGarry, Miss Intercontinental 2015 1st Runner Up, Gabe Norwood, Gilas Pilipinas basketball team captain, and Vanessa Matsunaga, just one of the 13 co-partners of Naxional South American Diner, which is the brainchild of Raymund Magdaluyo, were seen at Naxional South American Diner to grace its formal announcement to media so we could share the great news to the public especially the foodies out there who would gladly visit newly opened restaurants.

Other well-known South American partners include Vanessa's brotehr and mom, Daniel Matsunaga and Gege Matsunaga respectively. There's also Cynthia Patos, Lifestyle Network's Venezuelan host and winner of "The Clash."

Gabe Norwood is joined by his wife Lei Norwood as founding partners also taht are not originally from South America.

Beauty Queen Christi McGarry vibrantly hosted the event making the day a lot more brighter and beautiful inspite of the rain that day.

Citi x Zomato Food Run with The Bistro Group of Restaurants

Wazzup Pilipinas!

August 9 and 10, 2016 is going to be another gastronomic adventure as we get to attend the Citi x Zomato Food Run with The Bistro Group of restaurants as their way of promoting the Citi promotional offer of 30% on all appetizers and salads. No minimum. Valid daily until September 15, 2016 for all Citibank cardholders.

We will be visiting 12 restaurants (6 per day) to try out their appetizers on a half-day food run within Uptown Mall and High Street of Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig city on the first day, and Greenbelt, Makati city and Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay city on the 2nd day.

Here's the list of restaurants we are going to visit for two days:

1st Day (August 9, 2016):

Uptown Mall

Italianni's

Texas Roadhouse
Moe's
Watami
Buffalo Wild Wings​

BGC High Street
Village Tavern

2nd Day (August 10, 2016):
Greenbelt

Krazy Garlic
Tonkatsu ​by Terazawa

Mall of Asia
Fish & Co
Bulgogi Brothers
Modern Shanghai
TGI Friday's

8 Startup Teams Awarded for Cohort Phase of Impact Hub Fellowship on Sustainable Energy Solutions with WWF and PEF

Wazzup Pilipinas!

About 16 million people in the Philippines, according to published report, still do not have access to electricity, forming part of the 130 million in Southeast Asia who still live in the dark.

Indeed when we talk about poverty, most are focused solely on financial poverty but staggering numbers show that it is also in the barest necessity like electricity that people continue to be deprived of. Having identified such an issue, the pressing question lies in how are we solving it?

With a growing interest in battling climate change, it has been imperative for many impact-minded organizations to stand together to do its share in promoting energy entrepreneurship.

Eradicating Energy Poverty

With the aligned vision to educate, encourage and empower energy entrepreneurship in the country, Impact Hub Manila, World Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF-Philippines) and Peace and Equity Foundation (PEF) have collaborated to search for ideas on sustainable energy solutions through the the Impact Hub Fellowship Program on Sustainable Energy Solutions.

After an application period of 5 weeks, 16 teams were pre-selected by the experts from Impact Hub Manila, PEF and WWF through a gruelling deliberation on July 28, 2016. The chosen entreprenuers were then given the opportunity to pitch before a jury panel. These judges awarded the 6 to 8 teams and gave them the opportunity to be part of the Cohort Phase.

Free Wi-Fi Services in LRT Stations

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Globe Telecom is the country’s first telecommunications company to provide free Wi-Fi services in all 20 LRT stations as part of its commitment to address growing customer demand for constant connectivity. The agreement is expected to benefit around 400,000 passengers daily.

Under an agreement signed by Globe and the Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC), the concessionaire of the Light Rail Transit System-Line 1 (LRT1), the telecommunications provider agreed to provide Wi-Fi services that will be accessible to LRT1 passengers and employees, said Joel Agustin, Globe Senior Vice President for Program Governance, Network Technical Group.

According to Agustin, Globe will also provide fiber optic cable system that will extend the length of the entire LRT 1 and cover all LRT stations and LRMC’s depot in Pasay City. In addition, the telco provider will also enhance its wireless infrastructure by deploying cell sites in each of the LRT stations. “Globe will also deploy the new LTE700/1800/2600 MHz spectrum to provide adequate capacity to handle the massive mobile traffic volume at these stations,” he said. Globe recently gained access to the 700 MHz band and acquired additional allocation in the 1800 MHz and 2600 MHz frequencies following its recent joint buyout of San Miguel’s telco assets.

“As the purveyor of the Filipino digital lifestyle, we, at Globe, recognize customer demand for constant connectivity even as they are on the go. We are confident that the deployment of free Wi-Fi services in all LRT stations will bring better communication or even improve work productivity for our customers,” Agustin stressed.

He explained that deployment of fiber optic cables and enhancement of the company’s wireless infrastructure along LRT 1 would improve mobile coverage and enhance network capacities. Once completed, this is expected to improve customer experience not only of customers riding LRT 1 but also those plying the Taft Ave. and Rizal Ave route.

In early June, Globe also signed a similar agreement to provide free Wi-Fi connectivity in all 13 MRT stations along EDSA. Globe has set aside for 2016 a capital expenditure of $750 million, bulk of which will be used to boost data capacity and expand network reach. In line with its vision of ushering in a digital nation, the network build will also increase the capacity of its network for both mobile and wire lines using different technologies including 3G, LTE and Wi-Fi.

*Photo caption: From left are Globe Senior Vice President for Program Governance, Network Technical Group Joel Agustin; PHAR Managing Director-Asia Prem Bhatia; Globe President & CEO Ernest Cu; LRMC & President Jesus Francisco; and LRMC Business Development Head Janet Bautista. 

Pacquaio Favors Return of Death Penalty and Claims It Is Approved by God

Wazzup Pilipinas!

"In his first privilege speech, Manny Pacquiao, a born-again Christian, mentioned no less than the bible as his basis for saying that death penaltyis justifiable."

The abolition of the death penalty back in 2006 was mainly due to the mounting pressure from religious groups. Yet first-term Senator Manny Pacquiao is saying that God permits death penalty? After filing three bills on restoring the death penalty, the boxer cum politician took center stage to explain that the ''Death penalty is a lawful, moral, and a sanctioned governmental action.''

"Are we greater than God because God is allowing death penalty in every nation and country?" - Manny Pacquiao

"I am convinced that God is not just a God of mercy, but also a God of justice." - Manny Pacquiao

“When the government punishes, it’s not an individual act. That’s approved by God” - Manny Pacquiao

We all know Pacquiao is not deserving of any government position. He won merely by popularity. He is just a clown or mascot at the Senate. Therefore, what he says pertaining to law or anything related can be considered as nothing more but garbage. He is not even qualified to speak in behalf of God, or religion. He does not know what he is talking about.

Pacquiao even jokes about hanging as the preferred method of death "Sisispain lang po yung upuan"

"Para po sa akin, ang nananaig ngayon ay yung hanging or firing squad," Pacquiao said.
"Dahil mura?" Sotto, who started to laugh.
"Sisipain lang ang upuan," Pacquiao said, laughing, in describing how hanging is done.

That was an example of an opportunity to intellectually explain his recommendation lost because he preferred to fool around with another silly Senator who is also not deserving of a seat in the Senate.

President-elect Rodrigo Duterte said that while the death penalty strikes many as “inhuman”, it is the fitting punishment for crimes just as “inhuman” like rape and the murder of infants. His statement is not surprising since the former Mayor of Davao has been accused of extrajudicial killings so he prefers death to suspected criminals without giving them a chance for due process.

Now, the entire country has been plagued by similar extrajudicial killings openly brought about by the police whose usual defense is that the suspects retaliated. However, most of the incidents were severely contradicted since it is highly unthinkable for the suspects to fight back when they are obviously outnumbered by the police.

I'm worried about those who believe that the death penalty should return. You should avoid these kind of people for they are mentally unstable and could cause chaos anytime soon. These are the type of people who would readily kill when given a chance. They will be among the very first to hurt you when no one is looking. They have given up on humanity that they want every accused or suspected criminals to be dead instead of being rehabilitated.

We all know that our justice system is weak therefore there will be a great chance that the innocent will be sentenced to death. The law never favors the poor because it is too expensive for the ordinary citizen. Thus, the affluent and influential can easily get away with crimes.

We've seen how our government officials have deceived us with their lies and deception. Yet, many of them continue to get re-elected.

Additionally, man has no right to end any life. The death penalty has been proven to be a cruel and unusual form of punishment. It has no place in our world.

The commandment, 'Thou shalt not kill' has absolute value, and concerns both the innocent and the guilty," says Pope Francis

When we talk about criminal justice reform, I believe it is time for our country to join almost every other country on Earth in saying no to the death penalty. At a time of rampant violence and murder, we should not be part of that process.

Tsip Bato: Ang Bumangga Giba Mobile Game App Launch

Wazzup Pilipinas!

There's a new officially sanctioned Android-based mobile game app called Tsip Bato: Ang Bumangga Giba that will let you play as PNP Chief Police Director General Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa or President Rodrigo "DU30" Duterte. 

Players will be entertained as they control Bato or Duterte in third-person perspective as they ride on the back of a police pickup truck through a four-lane highway. Bato or DU30 can be moved through the lanes by swiping left to right.

"The objective of the game is to shoot or run down criminals (seen wearing green masks) while avoiding vehicles, parked pedicabs, pedestrians, sidewalk vendors (in the outer lanes), and those orange barriers seen along EDSA. Hitting any of these would end the run.

The process of avoiding can be taxing as players have to be accurate in their swipes and quick enough to avoid barriers, which increasingly become closer to each other as the run progresses.

Players can also capture coins featuring silhouettes of criminals. These tokens would increase the chances of several power-ups appearing, such as magnets (captures, or rather kills enemies without having to move to the corresponding lane), speed boosts (makes the character's vehicle faster), and bags of coins, which can be used to buy power-up upgrades.

Unlike “Temple Run,” players of the PNP mobile game do not have to make in-game purchases that require actual monetary transactions; they simply need to play the game more to collect coins to purchase."

PNP Chief Police Director General Ronald Dela Rosa tests the new mobile game application, "Tsip Bato: Ang Bumangga Giba" during its official launch on August 8, 2016 in Camp Crame. The game app is part of the PNP's strengthened campaign against illegal drugs.

Cleanup the streets from criminals as Tsip Bato and El Presidente Du30! Android

Patrol the roads and fight crime. Apprehend as many bad guys as you can while avoiding obstacles.

This mobile game app was developed in support of the Philippine Government's fight against crime and illegal drugs. In partnership with PNP Police Community Relations Group (PCRG), the team in-charge of PO1 Bato mascot and ‪Tatay Digong‬, Chief Bato, PO1 Makisig and Da Adiks Puppets.

Features:

* Features the likeness of General Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa!
* Features the likeness of President Duterte.
* Fast paced and fun endless runner game.
* Shoot or run down criminals to apprehend them.
* Powerups to improve your game.
* 100% Pinoy made!

Visit the website at www.ranidagames.com for more details.

Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Be At HISTORY Con 2016

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Manila makes history this August with first-ever History Con!

Join your favourite HISTORY stars at the first-of-its-kind event with interactive experiences, on-ground activities and exhibits.

Mark your calendars! HISTORY Con, A+E Networks’ HISTORY Asia’s very first-ever convention, will be opening in Manila on 25 August. This can’t-miss event is jam-packed with activities and displays that will bring the channel to life and immerse visitors in the HISTORY® experience. Get ready for an epic event that covers a broad-range of genres and interests, with dedicated areas for the paranormal/sci-fi, survival and adventure, motoring, history and culture.


Where:World Trade Center Metro Manila
WTCMM Building, Gil Puyat Ave. Extension cor. Diosdado Macapagal Blvd. Pasay City
When:25 – 28 August, Thursday to Sunday
Time: 10am – 10pm


How to buy tickets:

The convention passes are now available for sale at HistoryAsia.com/HistoryCon or you can buy them on the event day at World Trade Center during the event days.


1) HISTORY’s star-studded line-up - Meet your favourite HISTORY stars up close and personal!

ANCIENT ALIEN’s Giorgio Tsoukalos,
STORAGE WARS’ Brandi Passante & Jarrod Schulz
GANGLAND UNDERCOVER’S Damon Runyan & Ian Matthews
PHOTO FACE OFF’s Justin Mott
CELEBRITY CAR WARS’ KC Montero, Joey Mead King, Marc Nelson, professional car driver, Gaby Dela Merced & host Bobby Tonelli


2) Be the first the Asia to attend Giorgio Tsoukalos’ Ancient Aliens talk! Giorgio will be giving a special talk on Saturday, 27 Aug and Sunday, 28 Aug.

For more details on how to get your tickets – log on to HistoryAsia.com/HistoryCon for the latest updates closer to the event day!

3) Think you’ve got what it takes? Stand a chance to be HISTORY’s first digital star. Submit a review of any HISTORY show, and try to out-crazy the craziest of hosts! Post your review video on HistoryAsia’s Facebook page with the hashtag #HistoryConAuditions and you could be on your way to stardom.

https://www.facebook.com/HISTORYasia

4) Join the fun at the biggest entertainment convention! With exhibitors ranging from cars to motorcycles, outdoor gears or tech gadget, HISTORY Con has something for the whole family.

5) Into sports? Try your hand at our sporting booth with arm wrestling contests, boxing tournaments and archery games, we guarantee that you’ll be working up a sweat!

6) Calling all history buffs – soak in local history with our special display of Philippine Presidential limousines, as well as World War II exhibits. Tip: Stay throughout the day to catch a glimpse of World War II reenactors who will be performing scenes from the Battle of Manila, to the Battle of Bataan.

7) Win attractive prizes when you come dressed in your best HISTORY character. From the iconic Las Vegas cast of Pawn Stars to your Scandinavian best from Vikings – we’re on the lookout for the best dressed HISTORY character throughout the event!

8) Love HISTORY? Now you can be part of it. We are aiming to break the record for the longest TV-watching marathon – currently set at 94 hours! If you’re interested to apply, drop us an email at makehistory2016ph@gmail.com

9) Immerse yourself in another world with our VR experience that takes you from the wild jungles of ALONE to the great outer space.

10) Who doesn’t love a good discount? Check out the best deals from our exhibitors and partners and you could score a great buy!