Sepang F1 Circuit Blazes Anew with 2016 Michelin Pilot Sport Experience

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The MICHELIN Pilot Sport Experience (MPSE) blazes its way back to the Sepang International F1 Circuit in Malaysia for the 12th consecutive year. For over 25 days in August and September, Michelin will treat more than 600 selected invitees from Asia, the Middle-East, Oceania and Europe to another round of excitement and sheer driving pleasure in the iconic Malaysian track.

Dealers, brand stake-holders, influencers and media were invited to participate in the event together with twenty-five (25) lucky consumers from the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Australia, Japan and Korea. They won their MPSE trip by participating in Michelin Driving Passion, a social media campaign conducted recently that reached 70 million consumers in the region. Campaign participants were invited to describe and share the emotions they experience when they are behind the wheels.

A shared passion for beautiful speed machines that will elicit unique emotions awaits everyone at the MPSE. Guided by an elite team of professional racing drivers and instructors, participants will drive premium racing vehicles such as the Citroen DS3 R1, the Formula 4 car, the Renault Clio IV, the Lamborghini 2014 GT3 and a Formula Le Mans 2-seater exclusively designed for this event.

Meeting motorsports champions who embody the spirit of the race and getting to connect with them is part of what makes this year’s MPSE unique. Special VIP guests in 2016 include Earl Bamber, former MPSE instructor who raced his way to victory and became 2015 Le Mans champion, and Kris Meeke, winner of the 2016 WRC Rally Finland.

At the MPSE, Michelin will launch its new MICHELIN Pilot Sport 4 tyre, the newest arrival in the MICHELIN Pilot Sport family. This tyre is specifically designed for premium sedans and sport cars whose owners desire enhanced driving pleasure through superior performance, a unique looks and safety. Participants will experience first-hand the tyre’s excellent steering control and high level of reactivity during a dedicated workshop.

Why does Michelin continue to organize and enhance MICHELIN Pilot Sport Experience, year after year? “There is nothing that can better convey our passion for performance than sharing it with our key stake-holders right where it is most apparent; on fantastic cars, in an iconic setting, with real racers, where one can feel, touch and even smell the difference that MICHELIN tyres can make”. Michael Nunag, Chief Representative of Michelin Philippines, said.

“The enthusiastic comments and the stronger engagement with the Michelin brand which we see in our invitees every year are a clear confirmation that MPSE is an extraordinarily effective platform to share our brand values and make a lasting impression”.

The MICHELIN Pilot Sport Experience was first launched at the Sepang International Racing Circuit in 2006 and has grown today into a key Michelin annual event in the region.

For more information about the MPSE, please visit its website: http://pilotsportexperience.michelin.com/

Hontiveros, Community Leaders File Alternative Mining Bill

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Akbayan Senator Risa Hontiveros on Thursday filed a bill to limit mining operations and ensure the protection of communities and the environment through taxes and heavy fines.

Together with community leaders and advocates from Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM), the neophyte Senator filed the Alternative Minerals Management Bill or Senate Bill #1069 to "rectify the failure of Republic Act 7942 or the Mining Law of 1995", the country's current law governing mining.

"There is a need to overhaul our current mining policy to ensure the proper management and utilization of our mineral resources", Hontiveros said.

The Senator also lamented the "low return and high costs of mining", citing that the industry only contributes 0.7% to the country's gross domestic product" while incurring high costs in terms of environmental degradation, loss of livelihood and human rights violations.

Hontiveros, also an environmental advocate, seeks to factor climate change in the government's mining policy framework by inculcating environmental tax and the establishment of a Calamity and Human Rights Protection Fund.

"It's time for mining companies to ensure that their operations do not harm the environment and are a source of contribution to the community", she added. "Super-heavy fines and revocation of licenses to operate await mining companies that violate the law", warned Hontiveros.

"The bill also limits the areas of operations of mining companies", she further explained. The bill protects watershed, key biodiversity areas, critical habitats and geo-hazard areas are no-go zones for mining companies.

Aside from the bill, Hontiveros supports a comprehensive review of all existing mining applications and licenses of all mining countries to determine what companies and mining areas, including places near settlements and biodiversity areas, are compliant with their respective environmental compliance certificates (ECCs) and those that have repeated records of abuse and exploitation. The Senator is also supporting the call of environmental advocates for a thorough investigation on the real economic benefits of mining.

Fast, Reliable Internet for Philippine Homes

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Converge ICT, a world-class provider of ICT products and personalized services, now offers a more reliable and high-speed internet solutions for homes with its FiberX plans.

Despite the presence of several internet service providers (ISPs), the struggle to access information needed for daily living still remains challenging.

The Philippines is one of the countries in the world that is notorious for its slow and unreliable internet connection. In the recent ranking among Asia Pacific countries, it emerged as second slowest with an average speed of 3.64 megabits per second (Mbps), a disturbing mile behind more than 100 Mbps of Hong Kong and Singapore which are on top of the list.

According to Dennis Anthony Uy, Converge ICT president and CEO, FiberX uses pure fiber optics that allows symmetric connectivity. It enables the users to experience superior internet connection and reliability since it neither congests nor degrades data as it passes through, allowing for a speedy downloading and uploading process.

“Fiber technology offers many benefits to both households and businesses because it provides higher bandwidth. What this means is that, people can now enjoy faster internet and that translates to better productivity,” Uy said.

Converge ICT’s FiberX technology provides 100 percent end-to-end fiber technology from its node to the subscriber. This makes for fast browsing, video-streaming, and seamless gaming, among others.

Furthermore, Converge ICT’s pure fiber technology offers better security because unlike copper wire, which is the conventional material used by other providers, fiber is dielectric. This means that it does not transmit energy so conversations on LAN are fully secured.

FiberX comes in different packages that are tailor-made depending on the needs of the consumers. They may avail of Converge ICT’s FiberX with a 20 Mbps, 50 Mbps or 100 Mbps bandwidth, respectively.

Converge ICT has already connected its fiber-powered capabilities to cities like San Juan, Las Pinas, Manila, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Marikina, Makati, Pasig, Taguig, CAMANAVA Area, Pasay, and Muntinlupa , Angeles in Pampanga and Tarlac City and Subic.

Converge ICT is licensed to operate nationwide. More than 6,700 km. of fiber optics cables (FOC) were rolled out nationwide with the use of the latest micro- trenching technology.

For more details, please visit the website at http://www.convergeict.com/about.php.

Selfie-Optimized Mirrorless Camera Fujifilm X-A3 Hits the Global Market

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Millennials will have a field day with the global announcement of Fujifilm’s newest innovation, the selfie-optimized mirrorless digital camera X-A3.

Designed with the younger, selfie-loving generation in mind, the X-A3 offers outstanding image quality with the company’s proprietary color reproduction technology. For easy self-portraits, the X-A3 has an LCD screen that is not blocked by the camera when tilted by 180 degrees, thus maintaining 100% visibility. Other features such as Eye Detection AF are designed to improve self-portrait shooting even more, and the new Portrait Enhancer mode includes the option to brighten the skin-tone. The X-A3 can shoot approximately 410 frames per charge, and, when fitted with the supplied lens “XC16-50mmF3.5-5.6 OIS II,” it can focus on a subject at a distance of approx. 7cm from the front edge of the lens for macro photography.

Furthermore, the X-A3 is a mirrorless camera that combines a newly developed sensor and color-reproduction technology that has been refined over 80 years to deliver premium-quality portraiture. It enables users to record the subject’s texture, form, and even the atmosphere of the scene. In a few words, the shots look palpably alive.

Further enhancing the X-A3’s appeal is its retro design that no doubt is coveted by younger users. The top cover, front plate and top dials are made of aluminum. The newly developed faux leather has significantly enhanced the overall texture.

The use of two Command Dials means you only need a thumb to quickly adjust aperture, shutter speed and exposure settings. Frequently used functions such as white balance, continuous shooting and the self-timer can be assigned to standalone function buttons, eliminating the need to go through the Menu screen each time you need to change settings.

And since the younger generation tends to be impatient and always on the go, they will love the X-A3’s extended battery life of approximately 410 frames per charge. The energy-efficient design has extended the battery life to a class-leading level, allowing you to concentrate on shooting pictures without having to worry about remaining battery power.

The X-A3’s class-leading minimum working distance allows users to approach a subject up to the class-leading distance of approximately 7cm from the front edge of the lens to enable macro photography while the built-in pop-up flash supports the Super Intelligent Flash that accurately controls light output according to individual scenes.

What’s more is that the X-A3 can also be used for full HD video recording. The Film Simulation function can be applied to video recording for a diverse range of creative effects. You can shoot beautiful video blogs and do cool selfie using a camera with a flip screen, which will undoubtedly be very useful.

Turning on the electronic image stabilization function delivers the five-axis image stabilization that combines optical and electronic stabilization, significantly reducing a variety of camera shakes that could occur during video recording. This function allows you to record high quality video with reduced camera shake while walking around with the camera in your hand.

The X-A3 also comes equipped with enhanced autofocus settings and versatile shooting functions including the electronic shutter with the maximum speed of 1/32000 sec.

Not the least of the X-A3’s outstanding features is its wireless communications functionality, which enables remote shooting from smartphones and tablets. One can transfer photos immediately from their camera to their favorite social media platform.

Versatile, multifunctional and innovative, the new FUJIFILM X-A3 is a product of FUJIIFLM’s 80-year history and expertise in photographic film manufacturing.

Healthway Medical, Vivian Sarabia Optical Offer Free Eye Examination in Celebration of ‘Sight Saving Month’

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Healthway Medical, the country’s most trusted and preferred network of mall-based clinic, in partnership with lifestyle eyewear shop, Vivian Sarabia Optical, announces its joint program, ‘Pamper Your Eyes with Eye Care 360’ in celebration of August as Sight Saving Month.

The partnership allows interested customers to avail free quality eye examination and minor eye frame repair for the month of August by simply visiting the Vivian Sarabia Optical booth located in Healthway Medical’s Greenbelt 5 branch.

This strategic venture is part of the clinic’s mission of making health and wellness part of an everyday lifestyle among the general public.

“Healthway Medical and Vivian Sarabia Optical forged this partnership to support the advocacy. We’ve seen the need to educate the public on the importance of eye care and wellness because it is one of the most neglected health issues in the country,” said Carmie de Leon, Vice President for Sales and Marketing, Healthway Medical.

According to Vivian Sarabia, CEO of Vivian Sarabia Optical, many people take eye care for granted as they often neglect visiting optometrists until the problem is irreversible. Eye problems like glaucoma, cataracts, and errors of refraction are usually ignored until the condition gets worse. But more importantly, an eye check-up can be used to detect early signs of diseases like diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, among others.

Vivian Sarabia Optical will also participate in Healtway’s wellness roadshow. This will allow customers experience a holistic approach to health and wellness.

“With the similar campaign that our both clinics want to push, we are opening the door to Filipinos to live a healthy and proactive lifestyle,” said Carmie de Leon, Healthway Medical’s Vice President for Sales and Marketing.

For more information, you can check their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/healthwaymedical/ or visit their website at https://healthway.com.ph/.

Photo Caption: (L-R) Shown in the photo are Healthway Medical representatives Carmie de Leon, Vice President for Sales and Marketing and Racquel Cagurangan, General Manager with Dr. Vivian Sarabia, CEO and Jan Vincent Sarabia Ong, Corporate Partners Director of Vivian Sarabia Optical.

DOE, PSME to Conduct Joint Technical Audit of Power Industry Facilities

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“Public interest demands an appropriate intervention from both the government and the private sector to ensure consumer protection,” Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi said as the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers (PSME) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) yesterday (25 August 2016) at the DOE’s Central Office in Taguig City.

With the PSME providing pro-bono services, the MOA boosts the DOE’s technical audit of the country’s generation, transmission and distribution facilities.

The PSME is the only accredited professional association of registered and professional mechanical engineers in the country.

The PSME is composed of 84,000 members who have the necessary technical knowledge, expertise and competence to assist the DOE in addressing the current power situation.

Earlier, the DOE also signed a MOA with the Integrated Institute of Electrical Engineers of the Philippines, Inc. (IIEE) to assist the DOE in the technical audit of power facilities.

Secretary Cusi said “the DOE is determined to immediately address the recurring challenges in the power supply chain that affects the productivity of our people. The entry of PSME will strengthen DOE’s technical audit teams.”

Present during the signing ceremony with Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi and PSME National President Dr. Murry F. Demdam were (L-R) PSME Manila Host Director Cesar S. Galang, PSME Technical Committee Member Edwin F. Delgado, Assist of Chairman 64th PSME J Christopher T. Perez, National Secretary Edgardo C. Camering, Assistant to the 2016 National President Rolando C. So, Chairman 64th PSME National Convention Roger G. Reyes, DOE Spokesperson Wimpy B. Fuentebella, DOE Spokesperson Atty. Richie Ramos, Engr. Arwin Ardon, Atty. Gerardo Erguiza Jr. and DOE Legal Services Director Arthus T. Tenazas.

The DOE remains committed in ensuring reliable, stable, sustainable, sufficient and reasonably priced electricity to the public.

Ricky Lee Workshop Selection Process Set on Sept. 4

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Writers Studio, in partnership with the University of the Philippines Film Institute (UPFI), will spearhead the screening and interview of applicants to Ricky Lee's 15th Film Scriptwriting Workshop at the UPFI Film Studio on September 4. Applicants may come to the venue anytime between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Lee, a multi-awarded scriptwriter, has written more than 160 films such as “Himala,” “Karnal,” “Brutal,” “Moral,” “Salome,” “Cain at Abel,” “Patayin sa Sindak si Barbara,” “Deathrow” and “Mila.” He last conducted his workshop, which has produced hundreds of graduates who are now part of the movie and TV industry, in 2002. Writers Studio is a group composed of his workshop fellows and students.

Supporting Writers Studio and UPFI in organizing the selection process are the UP Department of Broadcast Communication, UP Broadcasting Association, Far Eastern University (FEU) Film Society, University of the East (UE) Buklod Sining, Think Creative, Inc. and Red Room Media Productions.

Lee, who started conducting workshops in 1982, when he was still new to the industry, thinks writing is sharing. “I believe that while you’re learning, you should share, rather than store, all the knowledge that you get.” He considers this more dynamic as he believes that creating comes hand in hand with sharing.

Those who have yet to submit the workshop requirements will have to fill out the Google form found at https://triptoquiapo.wordpress.com on or before August 28. Those who fail to do so may still come to the venue on the said date but they need to answer the essay questions on the form on the spot.

The selected individuals will make up Batch 15 of Lee’s workshop, which will be held every Sunday starting this November. Application to the free workshop is still open. For more details and other inquiries regarding the workshop, email rickyleebatch15@gmail.com or check out the Ricky Lee (Official) Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/TripToQuiapo) or Twitter account @triptoquiapo (SBS).

Converge ICT Offers Fiber-Powered Connectivity To Homes, Businesses

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The emergence of fiber-powered internet has accelerated recently, powering up homes and enterprises with high-speed internet that boosts productivity and provides optimum entertainment to users.

With the increasing need for fast internet, Converge ICT—a provider of world-class ICT products and personalized services to customers in the Philippines—rolls out next-generation broadband services that are set to improve lives and empower enterprises.

Converge ICT develops relevant and world-class solutions for its clients, creating productive working environments for businesses and optimizing home entertainment for every internet use at home.

According to Dennis Anthony Uy, Converge ICT president and CEO, access to internet is becoming more available, with more homes and small and medium enterprises as well as established ones recognizing the benefits that come with fiber internet’s integration into their operations.

“For businesses, slow internet speeds result to loss of productivity and efficiency; for homes, this means their inability to do research and watch their favorite TV show when they need and want it,” Uy added. “But with high-speed connectivity, you can enjoy its fullest potential.”

Duterte Says His Threat to Take the PH Out of the UN was Only a Joke

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Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay: "Duterte was ‘tired, disappointed, hungry’ when he threatened to take PH out of UN. We must give him leeway. He is only human."

Lately, Duterte says it was merely a joke. Lol!

Duterte supporters should be appointed as "interpreters" because they would always give positive meaning to whatever the President says. You have to give them credit for it would always be an extreme effort to find something good out of all the garbage spewing from his dirty mouth.

Supporters are implying we should read, or listen, between the lines. That what we perceive of Duterte is not what common sense dictates. That Duterte means good even though he is already making a mockery of the Philippines by quarreling with supposed to be allies like the UN.

They are trying to say they know Duterte better than most of us because they seem to know that all that barking is something else other than what is obvious.

Everyone should be aware that the UN has made significant contributions to improve our welfare especially during times of disaster or conflict, of which our local authorities failed to do so because they are focused on something else other than being proactive and capable during times of crisis.

Bridging the Gap for Better Workforce Management Operations

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Fujitsu Philippines, Inc., a leading information technology (IT) solutions integrator, recently ties up with Aspect Software, a provider of fully integrated consumer engagement, workforce optimization and self-service, solutions, to integrate its workforce management solutions to the existing Fujitsu cloud services in the country. 

The said partnership aims to optimize manpower industry in the country by introducing cloud-based platforms that feature intuitive dashboard-based UI; a centralized visibility into employee characteristics, preferences, schedules and performance; sophisticated forecasting algorithms that support multiple business objectives; and a simplified management of workforces across multiple sites and outsourced locations, among others. 

Photo caption: L-R: Mr. Sanjay Gupta, Head of Cloud Business – APAC, Aspect Software Inc.; Mr. Mark Pandy - Managed Services Business Unit Head, Fujitsu Philippines Inc.; Mr. Cricket Santiago, Chief Executive Officer, Fujitsu Philippines Inc.; Mr. Jagannath Narendran, Senior Vice President - APAC & Middle East, Aspect Software Inc.; Mr. Richard Loberas, Head of Sales – ASEAN & Korea, Aspect Software Inc.