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Friday, January 13, 2017

Friday the 13th: Are You Superstitious?



Wazzup Pilipinas!

Beware of black cats, don't walk under a ladder, don't break a mirror - these are just some of the most common superstitions that are still being practiced by some individuals regardless of the fact that it has no scientific or logical proof.

I am still surprised to find out many are still believing age-old superstitions that are really too difficult to believe especially if you are educated enough to somehow deduct that there are no reasonable explanations surrounding the superstitions.

Today is Friday the 13th, and even a date has a superstition attached to it due to malicious, and obviously uneducated interpretations. This was especially made a lot more memorable when the movie series made a certain hockey mask-wearing killer popular. The Friday the 13th movie came out in 1980. Remade in 2009. Remade again in 2017. At this pace, next will be 2019, then infinite remakes in 2020. But remember that Jason Vorhees didn't wear a hockey mask until the third installment of the movie series.

I'm sure there will be a Friday the 13th horror stream in most TV channels tonight. They will be bringing back the old horror and slasher movies composed of many iconic serial killers or psychopaths.

Would it be wise to consider spending this Friday the 13th outdoors, far away from any streaming device? My grandma and I might go get a tattoo and have our nose pierced. Lol! Don't get me wrong, I love Friday the 13th movies - the series that started the mock jump scare with a cat trope.

Maybe I will watch the new movie The Bye Bye Man - Once you know his name, he won’t stop... until you're dead. #TheByeByeMan or play Friday the 13th: The Game. Savage, brutal, unrelenting. Yeah!

Also, can all the people trying to make #FridayThe13th a blissful day, stop? It's an insult to Jason!

Friday the 13th is just another day coz I'm just an unlucky asshole everyday. Maybe I'll get lucky and get hit by a bus.

Looking on the bright side. After I get killed, I would no longer hear Duterte's foul mouth and will never see Trump sit as president - two equally gruesome personalities who were able to dupe people in believing they mean well. I hope I could send a cryptic message to Jason to put on his hockey mask fire up the chainsaw & kill.

Maybe I will just scare myself in a creepy haunted house (coz there is no such Camp Crystal Lake). Of course it's gotta be on this supposed to be spookiest day of every year.

Seriously, you are in charge of your day. Choose happiness! Invite positivity!

Aung La N Sang Eyes to Win Intricately-Crafted World Title for Myanmar


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Aung La N Sang might be an ordinary mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter in the eyes of many in the world, but he is extremely revered by over 53 million Burmese people as a hero in his motherland.

A national treasure like Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi in Myanmar, the whole country stands still each time that Aung La steps inside the ONE Championship cage.

Aung La’s superstar status has been published in every mainstream newspaper in Myanmar. He has been a regular staple on each household’s television screen.

On the day of his bout, all walks of like unite in support of Aung La, which he then compensates with a sweet victory.

Myanmar’s beloved son will have the biggest fight in his nearly 12-year professional MMA career as he is set to challenge Vitaly Bigdash for the ONE Middleweight World Championship title at ONE: QUEST FOR POWER in Jakarta, Indonesia on 14 January.

Capturing the ONE Middleweight World Championship belt will not only put Aung La in history books as the first Burmese MMA competitor to claim a world title, but he will also have an intricately-crafted hardware in his possession.

​​MMA Veteran Vincent Latoel Banks on Experience in Must-Win Fight


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Dutch-Indonesian fighter Vincent Latoel sees his three-round lightweight encounter against Filipino journeyman Vaughn Donayre in his 15-year professional mixed martial arts (MMA) career.

Holding an experienced MMA record of 16-18-2, Latoel is coming off two-straight setbacks in 2016, bowing down to former ONE Lightweight World Champion Kotetsu Boku in February before yielding to Team Lakay’s Edward Kelly this past August.

According to Latoel, his bout against Donayre at ONE: QUEST FOR POWER in Jakarta, Indonesia on 14 January will serve as a standard of measure to determine if he is still within the top-caliber rank in the sport.

“Competing is my drive. I love every bit of it, especially the rush that I get each time I step inside the cage. As much as I would like to continue, I have to assess myself. Yes, I am still hungry. I still have the heart to compete. But of course, I have to see first if I can compete at a high level,” he said.

Latoel, who may have trained for MMA competition much longer than anybody on the ONE Championship roster, believes that his experience will play a pivotal factor in trumping Donayre.

The 37-year-old Dutch-Indonesian kickboxer is a seasoned fighter with over 30 professional bouts under his belt and has faced the best combatants in the Asian MMA circuit like Eduard Folayang, Eddie Ng and Adrian Pang.

“My experience will truly be my advantage. I have been competing for a very long time. I experienced ups and downs in my career. When I am down on the ground, it makes me so eager to get back up,” Latoel stated.

“Winning and losing are part of the sport. A true winner is someone who doesn't give up and learns from his losses. I have learned from my 2016 fights. I am back, more focused and much stronger,” he added.

Thursday, January 12, 2017

AOC AGON: Promotional Partner for Asia Pacific Release of “Assassin’s Creed” The Movie


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AOC, a global leader in display technology, will be a promotional partner for the release of “Assassin’s CreedThe Movie in various Asia Pacific countries. The partnership will include an interactive social media campaign to be held throughout the region with prizes to be won.

Global entertainment industry powerhouse Twentieth Century Fox (FOX) will distribute the film. AOC and FOX have collaborated on regional movie releases at least once per year starting with “X-Men: First Class” in 2011. In 2016, AOC and FOX collaborated on the release of “Independence Day: Resurgence”.

The AOC and “Assassin’s Creed” The Movie collaborative campaign will feature the recently-launched AGON brand. AGON is AOC’s premium gaming monitors brand, which has solidified AOC’s position as a leader in the ever-growing world of competitive computer gaming. AGON monitors feature top-of-the-line gaming specs, like 144Hz refresh rates (160Hz for some models), 1ms response time and AOC Shadow Control. AGON displays include eye protection technologies like AOC Low Blue Light and AOC Flicker Free.

AOC APMEA Sr. Marketing Manager Recky said: “’Assassin’s Creed’ the Movie will be full of breathtaking action, adventure and stunning visuals. We are very excited to be a promotional partner for this film and look forward to providing more opportunities for interaction with our fans all across the Asia AOC APMEA Sr. Marketing ManagerPacific.”


AGON will now separate its lineup of displays into two categories: AGON I and AGON II. Their main point of differentiation is the anti-tearing chip used (NVIDIA G-SYNC for AGON I and Adaptive-Sync for AGON II), though there are also other specifications that differ between them.

One Championship Announces Complete Card for One: Throne of Tigers


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The largest sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship (ONE), in partnership with Tune Talk, has just announced additional bouts to complete a spectacular card at ONE: THRONE OF TIGERS. The blockbuster event will feature the absolute best in local and international mixed martial arts talent, accentuating a tremendous main event bout between hometown hero Ev “E.T.” Ting and lightweight veteran Kamal Shalorus.

Victor Cui, CEO of ONE Championship, stated: “ONE: THRONE OF TIGERS is shaping up to be one of the most exciting cards we have ever held in Kuala Lumpur. It has a great headlining bout between Malaysia’s very own Ev Ting and a veteran of the sport in Kamal Shalorus. In addition, the card has an amazing roster of talent. Fans in Malaysia and all around the world can look forward to an amazing night of world-class mixed martial arts action.”

The undefeated Agilan “Alligator” Thani of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, will be making his return to the ONE Championship cage, following his spectacular submission victory over hard-hitting Filipino fighter Trestle Tan in September 2016. The 21-year old prospect is a perfect 6-0 as a professional, with five of his six victories ending in the first round. Thani has shown steady improvement in each outing, and will look to put his skills further to the test against Chinese Taipei’s Jeff Huang.

Jeff “The Machine” Huang is Chinese Taipei’s top welterweight, and he cemented that standing when he knocked out Indian kickboxer Bala Shetty in his ONE Championship debut. Despite having a comfortable career as a financial consultant, Huang elected to give it up to follow his passion and dedicate himself to mixed martial arts. Huang spent his life savings to travel the world and pick up new techniques, studying various fight disciplines. In his most recent bout, Huang finished Filipino fighter Trestle Tan with a furious punching combination to earn a scintillating first-round TKO. All six of Huang’s victories so far have ended in spectacular fashion. He will do battle with Malaysian prospect Agilan Thani next.

30-year-old Ann “Athena” Osman of Kota Kinabalu is Malaysia’s premier women’s combat sports star. Training out of the coastal locale of Sabah, the female warrior hones her craft at Borneo Tribal Squad, advancing her skills in various disciplines such as wrestling, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and Muay Thai. A well-rounded mixed martial artist, Osman likes to overpower her opponents and is extremely aggressive, always looking for the finish. Osman will take on Cambodia’s Vy Srey Khouch in her return to the ONE Championship cage.

Vy Srey Khouch is a highly-regarded Cambodian female boxer who competed in numerous international competitions. She made her professional mixed martial arts debut in 2015, winning by decision at ONE: KINGDOM OF KHMER. Srey Kouch is currently unbeaten and riding a two-fight win streak. In her next bout, she will take on the gargantuan task of handling Malaysian women’s MMA standout, Ann Osman.

28-year-old Herbert “The Blaze” Burns of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is one of the most talented featherweights in ONE Championship. The grappling specialist has a penchant for locking in fight-ending submissions, and is a legitimate threat to any opponent on the mat. In his last bout, Burns submitted the hard-hitting Timofey Nastyukhin with a first-round rear-naked choke. With his strong background in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Burns is widely considered as one of the top contenders in his division. He squares off with Russian combatant Movlid Khaibulaev next.

26-year-old Movlid “Killer” Khaibulaev is currently undefeated with an immaculate 10-0 professional record, and is a mixed martial artist from Russia. Half of his victories have come by finish, including one submission and four emphatic knockouts. Having spent the majority of his career competing in his home country, Khaibulaev now makes his debut in Asia by putting his unblemished win-loss slate on the line against fellow undefeated standout Herbert Burns.

22-year-old Keanu Subba of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is a former amateur MMA standout and one of the most promising young talents in ONE Championship’s featherweight ranks. He is 4-2 as a professional mixed martial artist after making a name for himself as the former MIMMA featherweight champion. Subba’s experience inside the ONE Championship cage as a young fighter has taught him great lessons that he says has helped him improve his overall game. He’ll get the chance to test those skills against fast-rising Ahmed Mujtaba next.

Ahmed “The Wolverine” Mujtaba is a Pakistani mixed martial artist competing in ONE Championship’s stacked featherweight division. He owns a perfect professional record of six wins and no losses, with 83% of his wins coming by spectacular finish. He is known for his tremendous grappling technique which has led to four submissions out of six total victories. Mujtaba makes his second ONE Championship appearance against local Malaysian hero Keanu Subba.

Roy Doliguez is a Filipino mixed martial artist currently riding a 6-3 record. Considered one of the best strawweights in Asia, Doliguez is also a former professional boxer with more than 40 pro bouts. He made his promotional debut in 2015, vying for the inaugural ONE Strawweight World Championship against Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke. The 34-year-old native of Sarangani, Philippines, makes his return to the ONE Championship cage against Brazil’s Alex Silva.

33-year-old Alex “Little Rock” Silva of Brazil is a mixed martial artist who holds a record of 4-1 as a professional, and is riding high on a three-fight winning streak. He is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu specialist with a terrifying ground game and knack for securing highlight-reel submission finishes. With steadily increasing confidence, Silva’s last three victories have ended in spectacular first-round submissions. He takes on former world title challenger Roy Doliguez next.

Saiful “The Vampire” Merican of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is happy to compete in front of his hometown crowd in Kuala Lumpur once again. The 28-year old flyweight combatant is an explosive striker who starts bouts fast, always looking to end matters early. He has had incredible success inside the ONE Championship cage with his fan-friendly fighting style. Merican is now looking to open 2017 with a bang by defeating Filipino fighter Burn Soriano.

Burn “The Hitman” Soriano of Ilocos Sur, Philippines, is coming off a highlight-reel victory over Indonesia’s Mario Sitya Wirawan, scoring a lightning quick 15-second spinning back fist KO. With a professional mixed martial arts record of 3-2 which includes two wins by submission and one by knockout, Soriano looks to continue his winning ways inside the ONE Championship cage. In his next bout, Soriano goes head-to-head with Malaysian MMA hero Saiful Merican.

26-year-old Tiffany “Soul Crusher” Teo is a female mixed martial artist who competes in ONE Championship’s women’s flyweight division. She holds an unblemished professional record of four wins and no losses, including two submissions and two knockouts. Born in Brunei and raised in Singapore, Teo began training in taekwondo before moving on to compete in boxing & Muay Thai and eventually transitioning to MMA. Teo is set to make her second appearance inside the ONE Championship cage against Priscilla Hertati Lumban Gaol.

Indonesian female fighter Priscilla Hertati Lumban Gaol is a striker who has trained in various standing disciplines such as kickboxing and wushu. She makes her ONE Championship debut at ONE: THRONE OF TIGERS, joining a growing list of elite female MMA talent in Asia. Gaol will look to emerge triumphant in her first appearance inside the ONE Championship cage, but will have to go through Singaporean prospect Tiffany Teo to earn the victory.

Kicking off an exciting fight card at ONE: THRONE OF TIGERS, former MIMMA featherweight champion Muhammad Aiman of Malaysia will do battle against grappling ace Eduardo Novaes. The 21-year-old Aiman is 1-1 as a professional mixed martial artist and will be put to the test against Novaes, who is making his ONE Championship promotional debut.

For more updates on ONE Championship, please visit www.onefc.com, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @ONEChampionship, and like us on Facebook athttps://www.facebook.com/ONEChampionship.

Ticket information for ONE: THRONE OF TIGERS is available at www.onefc.com

Complete your Sinulog Experience with the Sinulog Guide App Powered by Smart


Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Sinulog Festival is one of the much-awaited and most famous festivals in the country. This festival is so rich in culture and color that many people go out of their way to fly to Cebu despite paying a higher airfare, if only to be at the heart of the festivities.

To the lucky ones who get to be in Cebu for the festival, there is an app that can help ultimately enhance your Sinulog experience. The Sinulog Guide mobile application, the official guide to the country’s biggest festival, can let you know what to do and where to go, so you don’t miss the best that the city and the festival can offer.

Sinulog Guide app features helpful tabs that will provide you with updated activities for the festival; useful tools and information that will make it easier for you to navigate the city; as well as tips and suggested spots to check out in and around Cebu.

A project of Smart Communications, Cebu-based media start-up InnoPub, and the Sinulog Foundation, Inc. the Sinulog app is practically a festival and Cebu 101 handbook, as it features extensive information on anything and everything about the Sinulog, plus various tours and activities that you can enjoy such as waterfalls shower or river cruise, which can enhance your Cebu experience exponentially. The app also boasts an extensive directory of Cebu establishments such as restaurants, hotels, malls, and emergency services—sparing you of time wasted looking for one.

Of course, dependable mobile Internet connection are now as important to any tourist as a change of clothes. Good thing Smart offers a wide array of services like the Smart Giga Surf 99 which gives you 1.5GB data valid for 7 days. Giga Surf 99 also comes with 300MB bonus for streaming on iflix, YouTube, Spinnr, Vimeo, Dailymotion and Dubsmash, as well as Free 1 Day Full Access to iWant TV. To subscribe, text GIGA99 to 9999.






The Sinulog app is downloadable for free for Android, IOS. Just search Sinulog Guide or visit this link with your mobile browser: http://apps.myguide.ph/sinulog/

Cusi Assures Full Power Restoration in Typhoon-stricken Areas


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The Department of Energy (DOE) and its partners in the power sector are prioritizing the resumption of electricity in areas of Southern Luzon and Eastern Mindanao rendered without power by a series of typhoons.

“Our priority is to ensure that the restoration of power in typhoon-affected areas is on schedule. We have asked rehabilitation personnel to work double-time, especially in areas where power facilities were badly damaged,” said Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi.

An 11 January 2017 report of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) noted that all transmission lines affected by Tropical Depression (TD) Auring in Caraga are now completely restored.

NGCP reported earlier that all transmission facilities affected by Typhoon Nina have been restored as well.

Distribution utilities in Dinagat Islands, Siargao, Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur affected by Tropical Depression Auring are now in the process of bringing back electricity services after NGCP worked to normalize transmission services in the said areas.

For its part, the National Electrification Administration (NEA) has reported that 80.69% or 1,368,040 of the total households affected by Typhoon Nina had already been re-energized as of 8 a.m. today (12 January).

Earlier this week, electricity supply was restored in the provinces of Batangas, Occidental Mindoro, Camarines Norte and Sorsogon, NEA said.

A total of 322,818 households are undergoing rehabilitation in the following areas with the following level of restoration: Quezon (92.89%), Oriental Mindoro (98.44%), Marinduque (28.79%), Camarines Sur (47.68%), Albay (64.20%) and Catanduanes (31.65 %).

“We understand and are one with our kababayans in the remaining areas still without power. We will make sure that electricity services in all areas are restored,” Secretary Cusi said.

Davao’s Kadayawan Street Dance Tradition Goes to Hong Kong for Chinese New Year


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The Hong Kong Tourism Board invites you to celebrate the city’s biggest and most colorful festival at the Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Night Parade on January 28 at Tsim Sha Tsui. This highly received entertainment event, now on its 22nd edition, features a series of world-class performances including the famous street dance display of Davao’s Kadayawan festival.

The Kadayawan festival is a thanksgiving harvest festival, which showcases Davao’s rich culture, diversity and the unification of the province’s resident indigenous groups. The main highlight of the Kadayawan festival is the Indak-Indak Kadalanan or street dancing, which will be brought to Hong Kong as part of the line-up in this year’s Chinese New Year celebration with the theme, “Best Fortune. World Party.”

The festivity begins with a fun-filled, interactive street party, followed by a parade with spectacular floats and a wide variety of local and international performing talent, including marching bands, cheerleaders, dance troupes, and roving costumed characters.

Along with the Kadayawan street dance performance, some of the most talented groups from all over the world will be featured in the parade, including the acrobatic Wheelartistics Wuppertal from Germany, world class marching band Bluecoats Drum and Bugle Corps from the USA and dance group Giant Flowers and Butterflies from France plus many more. 

DOE Revokes SCC of Pasig LPG Firm; Explosion Probe Underway


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Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi vowed today to get to the bottom of the explosion in a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) refilling plant in Pasig City as he ordered close coordination by his staff with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) unit now investigating the incident.

“Public safety is always our priority and the DOE (Department of Energy) is looking closely at this unfortunate incident which injured at least 20 people. Our common objective with the BFP is to ensure that this does not happen again,” said Secretary Cusi.

To ensure their safe operation, LPG refilling plants are tasked to comply with the Philippine National Standards (PNS) for Refilling Plants and the DOE Circular on LPG Industry Rules.

A Standards Compliance Certificate (SCC) is issued once an LPG refilling plant complies with the minimum requirements of the PNS and the DOE circular. Other government agencies like the BFP, as well as local government units (LGUs) have their own requirements for compliance by LPG refilling companies.

Initial reports have said that the company involved in the incident have secured an SCC and all other prerequisite requirements from the BFP and the Pasig government.

Cusi said the DOE will revoke the company’s SCC because of the incident and that it cannot operate until it is able to secure a new SCC after all pertinent investigations have been concluded to the DOE’s satisfaction.

“Violations of the DOE Circular on LPG Rules merit administrative sanctions on those responsible,” Cusi stressed.

LPG refilling firms are also required to comply with provisions of the Fire Code of the Philippines and local government ordinances, if any, with regards to operational safety. Overall, the BFP is mandated to ensure against fire hazards in all businesses in the Philippines.

Appoint Data Protection Officers ASAP - Privacy Commissioner


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The National Privacy Commission (NPC) has reiterated that chief executives of public and private organizations who process personal information must designate their own Data Protection Officers (DPOs) stressing its urgency following its decision on the "Comeleak" breach, which was made public last week.

NPC Chairman and Privacy Commissioner Raymund Enriquez Liboro said organizations that have yet to comply with the Data Privacy Act of 2012 should immediately appoint their own DPO, who would be accountable for ensuring compliance as regards everything related to data privacy and security. Liboro said officially designating a DPO signals an organization's "commitment to comply" with the law.

"Personal data handling is a public trust, and carries with it a burden of accountability. No amount of ignorance or legal naiveté can erase that accountability," Liboro said.

"The Data Privacy Law of 2012 is about making sure those we entrust with our personal data are actually trustworthy by compelling them to do everything they can to protect it," Liboro added.

In its decision dated December 28, 2016, the privacy body said COMELEC has failed to designate an accountable officer for data privacy, as required under Section 21 of the Data Privacy Act of 2012.

"If you process a lot of personal data, you could be a disaster waiting to happen, if you fail to apply the principles provided in the law " Liboro said.

In Section 21 of the Data Privacy Act of 2012, the DPO is defined as an "individual or individuals who are accountable for the organization’s compliance" with the privacy law, so designated by the organization in the exercise of its duty as a "personal information controller" (PIC). This requirement is echoed in the law'simplementing rules and regulations (IRR), under Section 26, which states that such individuals "shall function as data protection officer" and would "be accountable for ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations for the protection of data privacy and security."

“The DPO is essentially tasked to champion people's privacy rights from within his or her organization. In so doing, the DPO is able to minimize the risks of privacy breaches, address underlying problems, and reduce the damage arising from breaches if and when they do occur.

Complying with the law produces a lot of upside.” Showing the public your commitment to protect their personal data, lead to increased consumer trust and thus, higher patronage.”, Privacy Commissioner Liboro said.

The DPO is expected to facilitate compliance with the privacy act, which requires the following:

Adherence to data privacy principles
Implementing organizational, physical and technical security measures
Upholding the rights of data subjects

With a view to upholding the rights of data subjects, the DPO’s job is focused on protecting data --- from collection, to storage, to sharing and destruction. Part of this job includes providing data subjects with access to their personal data, and instructions on how they can object to processing and obtain relief when needed.

“What is absolutely required of the DPO is willingness to understand information security and privacy principles and the capability to monitor compliance based on the law. Or in short, he or she has to be an advocate for privacy rights of the data subject,” Liboro said. “For MSMEs that process personal data, the DPO can even be the business owner, what is important is developing a culture of privacy within their organization and ensuring their employees are aware of data privacy principles.” Liboro added.

A DPO, however, could not effectively function in a vacuum. Apart from a strong strategic framework, the job requires committed support from top management.


Lauding National Government Agencies who comply with the law.


From recent consultations with several National Government Agencies, the Commission was pleased to note that some agencies have been complying and/or starting to comply with the provisions of the Data Privacy Act of 2012 like: Department of Health, Philhealth and the Department of National Defense to name a few. Privacy Commissioner Liboro also noted,” even the NEDA has a designated Data Protection Officer who was appointed by management years ago after the law had been passed. The MMDA upon the instructions of Chairman and GM Thomas Orbos have recently appointed their own Data Protection Officer to comply with the law.” The proactive heads of these agencies must be commended for displaying zeal in protecting personal data in their agencies’ possession.”, Privacy Commissioner Liboro added.

A Guide to Security for Today's Cloud Environment


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Enterprises have rapidly incorporated cloud computing over the last decade, and that trend only seems to be accelerating. Private cloud infrastructure, including virtualization and software-defined networking (SDN), is in the process of transforming on-premise data centers, which host the majority of enterprise server workloads around the world. Enterprises are also embracing public clouds at an unprecedented rate, with most connecting back to on-premise environments to create a true hybrid cloud environment. For all their advantages, these accelerated infrastructural changes also raise major concerns about security, and the ability to protect end-users and sensitive data from ever-evolving cyber threats.

As today’s enterprise data centers evolve from static internal environments to a mix of private, public, and hybrid clouds, organizations need to augment traditional firewalls and security appliances (deployed for north-south traffic at the network edge) with expanded protection for east-west traffic moving laterally across the network, both within internal networks and across clouds.

To maintain a strong security posture in private, public, and hybrid clouds, organizations need to increase and perhaps even reallocate security to keep pace with these more dynamic, distributed, and fast-paced environments. 

Here are some specific areas to consider:

Top PC Trends for 2017


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Millennials are spending more time with their PCs than ever before. Studies indicate that the average time spent on a PC has gone up by 12 minutes since 2012. In addition, consumers are spending twice as much time watching movies and TV shows on PCs rather than tablets and smartphones combined.

“While this generation is consuming more content on their mobiles, to assume that they are letting go of their personal computers is misguided. Depending on their personal usage and needs, some users today still prefer PCs over mobile,” said Michael Ngan, Country General Manager of Lenovo Philippines. “With PCs and laptops becoming more affordable than ever, PC use will continue to thrive this year.”

As consumers become prolific creators, sharers of content and end users, Lenovo (HKSE: 992) (ADR: LNVGY) believes that display innovations will be a key feature that will drive customer satisfaction. The company has already implemented these features in industry-leading products such as the ThinkPad X1 Yoga’s optional OLED display; the Yoga 910’s near-edgeless 4K display; the Yoga Book featuring pen-based input, dual screen and a Halo Keyboard; as well as the Lenovo Y27g Curved Gaming Monitor.

Against this backdrop, there will be plenty to look forward to in the personal computing space in 2017.

AR/VR Gaming – The AR/VR gaming space is projected to explode as a trend in 2017. With over 50 different headsets already confirmed to be displayed at CES 2017, gaming systems are set to dominate the PC market. We can anticipate that these technologies will grow beyond the PC gaming world as new uses are discovered for the technologies. For example, schools are piloting “Virtual Reality Corners” to diversify the learning process, bringing headsets and AR-compatible devices into the classroom. Benefits of a world with AR/VR are limitless and in line with Gartner’s predictions, this immersive experience will evolve dramatically through 2021, as the technologies transform our interaction with one another and with software systems.[1]

Display Innovations – Thanks to the growing consumer interest for AR/VR gaming, display innovations subsequently follow on the fast track to growing PC trends. Last year, Lenovo was one of the first to bring curved gaming monitors to market for more immersive gaming with the Lenovo Y27g Curved Gaming Monitor and continues to invest in this space to match display capabilities with AR/VR technology that calls for vibrant, snappy visuals. Outside of gaming displays, Lenovo also introduced the ThinkPad X1 Yoga with optional OLED display and the Yoga 910 with up to 4K display, ushering these high-impact displays to become the standard.

IoT Integration – IoT will continue to leave an impression in 2017 as industry observers are already predicting “The Internet of Everything” to be a disruptive trend in technology for the year. Expect to see significant growth in both the consumer and B2B market where smart connectivity extends to virtually any endpoint in the home or workplace. Lenovo is on the path to innovate in this space with ambitious R&D plans in place to make PCs and other smart devices even more integrated and intuitive.

Versatility in Laptops and Tablets
– In a recent report, IDC forecasts that detachables can be considered as a PC replacement in the commercial space, with the detachable category expected to account for 31 percent of the tablet market by 2020, an increase from its current market share of 16 percent. 2017 will undoubtedly see an abundance of convertible and detachable devices on the market as portability and versatility remain top of mind for PC users who are becoming more mobile at work and at home.

Extended PC Lifecycles – In the commercial space, analysts forecast PC-as-a-Service (PCaaS) will help PC vendors transform transactional PC sales into longer-term and more profitable engagements by expanding their services portfolios bundled with PC sales. IDC also surveyed IT buyers across a range of company sizes about PCaaS, and found that almost half of respondents said they engaged in the past 12 months or are considering engaging in the next 12 months in PCaaS. This means IT decision makers are positioned to drive and grow the PC market with customized add-on services to maintain and extend the lifecycle of the device.

The Internet of Things (IoT) will continually change the way we live in the coming year. For businesses, the potential from IoT growth will boost productivity and enhance customer engagement. On the consumer front, as we get increasingly connected and adopt new technologies, there will be a blurring of the digital and physical world.

“IoT devices can help businesses enhance customer profiles and create more effective marketing campaigns,” said Ngan. “We’re optimistic to see what IoT will bring in 2017 as more organizations and people begin to adopt IoT. At Lenovo, our aim is to innovate to deliver smart end-user devices and powerful infrastructure, all with connected services and apps, and the best user experience.”

[1] http://www.gartner.com/newsroom/id/3482617

Animax Kicks-off 2017 with 2 Same-Day Telecasts


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Still reeling from the brilliantly illustrated anime movie Your Name? Animax Asia has lined-up a series of exceptionally strong and compelling anime – from hit blockbusters that is close to our hearts to brand new anime series airing on the same day as Japan’s telecast – that will satisfy the desires of all anime fans in the Philippines.

The latest anime right after its broadcast in Japan: Gabriel Dropout and BanG Dream!


First to premiere is supernatural series Gabriel Dropout, a comedy series guaranteed to entertain audiences with its unconventional plot revolving around a delinquent angel! Having graduated at the top of her class, ace angel Gabriel White descends to earth to learn more about humans in order to show them the right path in life. Unfortunately, during her time in the human realm, she picks up bad habits including video game addiction and utter laziness – to the point that this former angel-role-model skips school to play video games. Will she ever find her way back to her angelic roots again? 

Gabriel Dropout airs every Monday at 11pm, on the same day as Japan.


Also premiering in January on same day as Japan is idol anime BanG Dream!. The 14 episode explosive anime series is part of a bigger franchise, which has multiple adaptions including manga, CD singles, music videos and games.  Be inspired to follow your dreams with the aspirational musical series BanG! Dream! All her life, Kasumi has been searching for the “beat of the stars”, a rhythm she heard one night as a child looking up at the sky. Just after entering high school, she chances upon a star-shaped guitar in a pawn shop, which excites new hidden feelings in her! When she meets with four other girls who have been searching for a similar feeling, she discovers that together they can produce magical sounds unlike anything she could be capable of on their own. Will they be able to find a stage for them to stand on and perform?

Follow the dream and unleash the star qualities when BanG Dream! premieres on 22 January, airing every Sunday at 8.30pm, on the same day as Japan.


Fans can also look forward to other popular anime series, which will premiere first and exclusively on Animax: 



Re: Zero -Starting Life in Another World-

The highly-acclaimed anime that has topped anime polls and charts is set to make its television debut on Animax.  It is no ordinary action and fantasy anime; it has become a worldwide phenomenon with over 2 million copies of its light novel sold.  The series follows Subaru Natsuki who is stranded in an alternate world.  Subaru will soon realize that the only way to survive in this new world is to reverse time, an ability that can only be activated when he dies.

Premieres 13 January, airing every Thursday and Friday at 10pm


Fairy Tail (Season 6)

Dubbed as the most intense season yet, the anime will continue from where it left off the last season.  This time, Natsu, Lucy and friends will find out that Tartaros, a dark guild, and its team of mages known as the Nine Demon Gates is behind some of the recent chaos and destruction. Will they be able to stop the mayhem restore the peace? This season will also unfold the untold story behind the beginnings of the Fairy Tail guild as young Mavis Vermillion, the first guild master and co-founder of Fairy Tail goes on a journey and meets friends and foes alike.

Premieres 17 January, every Monday and Tuesday at 10pm


Handa-kun

The much anticipated prequel and spin off the heartwarming anime series Barakamon, Handa-kun tells the tales of Sei Handa, a handsome high school student who is worshipped and deeply respected by his classmates due to the aloof yet charismatic aura he gives out.  To them, he is perfect and out of their league and no one dares to approach him carelessly. However, for Sei and his inherent negative personality, he constantly mistakes such respect as hatred and hostility towards him, leading to unexpected hilarious situations.

Premieres 18 January, every Wednesday and Thursday at 8pm


Animax is available on SKYCable Channel 46, Cignal Digital TV Channel 73, and Dream Channel 07.

Philippine Cohort of Victoria University MBA Program March in Hong Kong


Wazzup Pilipinas!

The largest Victoria University (VU) Switzerland Master of Business Administration contingent yet from the Philippines trekked to Hong Kong recently to receive their hard-earned MBA degree scrolls at the Asia World Expo beside the Hong Kong International Airport in Lantau.

Enrolled under the blended learning program of Victoria University run by Gates Professional Schools in the Philippines, 15 Filipino graduates completed their MBA education mostly under the fast track schedule of only 10 months.

This year's graduates from the Philippines were led by Chancellor's Awardees for Academic Excellence Rosemarie Ribo Esguerra and Rommel Rañola Trinidad. Esguerra also delivered the valedictory address on behalf of the students together with VU Doctor of Business Administration graduate Lok Peng Tong from China. Other graduates from the Philippines who made the trip to Hong Kong were Maria Elenor Ayento, Armin Butalid, Sarah Deloraya, Simeona Ibañez, Mariam Macud, Analiza Remedios, Erilene Tumali and Mae Vicente.

They joined over 700 other graduates from 12 different countries who completed the VU BBA, MBA, DBA or Executive programs.

The VU MBA program run by Gates Professional Schools is a high-standard fast-track program that is relevant and responsive to emerging business trends. Taught exclusively by the best professors and industry practitioners, the program is designed for managers and business leaders looking to take their career to the next level. The program will expose the participant to a solid foundation course that includes business fundamentals, tools, and models useful for making decisions. While most students complete the program through the blending learning mode, Gates also offers the program on a purely online basis. 

 
For more information, please send an email to info@gates.edu.ph or check www.gates.edu.ph.

Nickelodeon's Underwater Theme Park in Coron, Palawan: The Bikini Bottom Scare is False


Wazzup Pilipinas!

Even though many of our government agencies are saying that there has not been any application for such, environmentalists are trying to scuttle Nickelodeon's plan to build an underwater theme park in the Philippines. They are asking people to sign the petition against the @NickelodeonTV 400-hectare underwater theme park in Coron!

Nickelodeon was said to have announced that it will build an underwater resort and theme park in Palawan, and thus alarming environmentalists like the Save Philippine Seas. The park on Palawan island was said to be a part of a 400-hectare (1,000-acre) undersea development.

People are saying Coron is more enchanting than Bikini Bottom. Coron doesn't need Nickelodeon to prove its beauty. They want to keep Spongebob and Patrick on TV, not in Palawan!

Bikini Bottom is the fictional place underwater where popular cartoon character Spongebob Squarepants live. It's one of the many cartoon characters of Nickelodeon.

However, Nickelodeon has clarified the issue saying "Nickelodeon is about staying true to kids. Togetehr with Coral World Park (CWP), we are committed to making a positive impact with our fans, kids and families, to help educate on ocean conservation while they enjoy a Nickelodeon entertainment experience in the new Nickelodeon attraction that CWP is developing.

To clarify the inaccurate reporting, CWP is not building a theme park in Palawan, but a Nickelodeon attraction and resort which comes with the larger CWP undersea-themed masterplanned development. Design details for the Nickelodeon attraction has not been finalized yet, but it will be an undersea-themed attraction with an ocean conservation focus. It is not developed undersea.

It is important to us that we are helping to play a part in ocean conservation, while friends enjoy a Nickelodeon entertainment experience in the new Nickelodeon attraction and resort that CWP is developing. When completed, CWP will be the largest coral reef conservation program in Asia, with Asia's largest marine sanctuary for five key species - dolphins, sea cows, sea horses, turtles and whale sharks."

However, we have seen in the news that the Department of Environment and Natural Resorces (DENR) already gave the Nickelodeon theme park project in Palawan the thumbs down. Environment Secretary Gina Lopez also said she will not allow the planned construction of an underwater resort and theme park in Palawan.

But now that Nickelodeon has clarified that their development is not an underwater theme park (thus not harming any underwater resources like the coral reef), I believe some groups now need to apologize for spreading the wrong information without consulting Nickelodeon first........or is this just Nickelodeon backing out from its original plan?
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