Chateau Royale Hotel Resort and Spa of Batangas Launches New Resto and Cafe

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Congratulations to Chateau Royale hotel resort & spa which recently opened up new attractions
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Chateau Hotel Resort & Spa, is definitely the biggest of its kind in Batangas, and we are proud to have been able to visit it at this time when they are continuously upgrading its facilities, plus the opening of a new restaurant called The Orchid Asian Grill that features Asian dishes, and a coffee shop that offers coffee like how Batangenos would like it.

The Orchid Asian Grill boasts of Asian dishes like Japanese, Korean Chinese and Mongolian, that will surely have you wanting for more once you tasted them. It's located within an orchid garden where you could appreciate the beauty of the plants, and dine at your heart's and stomach's content.

We had Executive Sous Chef Billy Francisco on video to show us some of the dishes available and also a short video message from him so people would know whom to look for when at Chateau Royale.

But wait, there's more, because dishes here are inspired to make like Teppan Yaki Style wherein they cook the actual food, coming fresh with farm ingredients, in front of customers.

Glaiza De Castro, Mocha Uson, Richard Gordon Joins PCCAI Officials at Photo Exhibit Launches

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Philippine Chinese Charitable Association Inc., (PCCAI) successfully held two launches of their photo exhibit featuring their years of work and charitable activities.

The first launch was held on July 25, 2017 at the Fisher Mall located in Quezon City and the second one on August 2, 2017 at the Lucky Chinatown Mall located in Binondo, Manila City.

Gracing the first launch is Glaiza De Castro, who was recently appointed as the PCCAI ambassadress of goodwill, and Senator Richard Gordon, who has been very supportive of PCCAI throughout the years, gave an inspiring message to all after the speech of PCCAI President James Dy.

For the second launch, Philippine Communications Operations Office (PCOO) ASec Margaux "Mocha" Uson and Congressman Conrado Estrella, were the honored guests who also spoke a few messages to the attendees immediately after PCCAI President James Dy's speech.

Also present is Dr. Benito Goyokpin, PCCAI Chairman of the Board, and their other officials and board members.

Enjoy an Ultimate Tech Festival During August Cybermonth at SM Supermalls

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Get your fix of the latest gadgets this August as Cybermonth 2017 kicks-off at SM Supermalls.  

This will be the ultimate tech festival for mallgoers in 63 SM Supermalls especially now that almost everyone is fascinated with gadgets like smartphones, tablets, laptops and other gadgets. Techies. gamers and gizmo lovers rejoiced upon this announcement.

A media launch was held on August 1, 2017, at the 4th floor of The Annex, SM North EDSA, Quezon City, specifically at the Cyberzone area where many technology and gadgets vendors from computers to smartphones are available for sale at the many stores in the area.

Cosplayers prominent at the launch were all technology-based characters like Iron Man and Transformers like Optimus Prime, Bumble Bee, Megatron and others.

Featured brands at the event were Vivo, Asus and Smart who had representatives talk about the brand and their latest products.

McCoy De Leon, a brand endorser of Vivo, was a featured celebrity who performed a few song numbers.

Mall shoppers would enjoy amazing month-long gadget sales where they can get up to 50% off on select gadgets and accessories.

There will also be the Game Con happening every weekend of August where you can discover the latest in gaming products and technologies.

ROG Masters: The Philippine Qualifiers is a partnership between SM Supermalls and Asus where live gaming competitions will happen for DOTA2 and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CSGO) where Php200,000 worth of prizes is at stake. 

We could also join a digital promo where we need to share our gadget discoveries, use hashtags #FirstDibsAtSM and #SMCybermonth to get the chance to win them.

To find out more about Cybermonth, visit http://www.instagram.com/smsupermalls

AirAsia is Geeks on a Beach Official Airline Partner

Wazzup Pilipinas!

AirAsia Philippines is the official airline partner of this year’s Geeks on a Beach (GOAB) international tech and startup confab.

This year’s edition of GOAB, renowned for its unconventional work and play by the beach format, will be held in Princesa Garden Island Resort and Spa Hotel in Puerto Princesa, Palawan on August 24-25.

AirAsia, which has been supporting GOAB since 2015, is servicing several flights to Puerto Princesa, Palawan from Manila and has recently introduced flights from Davao and Cebu to Palawan last April.

“For the third straight year, AirAsia is supporting GOAB as part of our efforts to support promising startups and grow the tech scene in the Philippines,” said Captain Dexter Comendador CEO of AirAsia Philippines.

The airline, known as Asia’s leading and largest low-cost carrier, is also renowned for transforming air travel into a more convenient experience with tech innovations like web, mobile app, e-boarding pass and kiosk services.

“By giving startups, creatives, and tech entrepreneurs a global stage for new learnings and opportunities for meeting potential partners, GOAB has more than made a difference and we are thrilled to partner with AirAsia, a truly Asean airline and a global brand,” said Tina Amper, TechTalks Founder and GOAB Lead Organizer.

Some of the brightest minds in the industry from the USA, Singapore and other countries will be present at this year’s GOAB. Invited to speak are Yobie Benjamin of Token.io and ClickSWITCH.com, Chris McCann of Greylock Partners, Kay-Mok Ku of Gobi Ventures, Manny Ayala of Endeavor, Aldo Carrascoso of GylcoProX Biosciences, Prasad Vanga of Anthill Ventures, Robertson Chiang of Dragonpay Corporation Miguel Perez of Ayannah, Jason Torres of Ticketbase.com, and Chris Tran of North Ridge Partners.

PLDT, Smart, Voyager, PayMaya, ePLDT, Smart DevNet, PLDT Enterprise, and PLDT Innolab, and Ideaspace are supporting GOAB as co-presenters while ASPACE Philippines is co-producer. GOAB is held in partnership with the City Government of Puerto Princesa, Palaweño ICT Association, and DOST-PCIEERD.

GOAB is organized by TechTalks.ph, powered by Sym.ph, branding by Happy Garaje, and pr by PRWorks. For registration or partnership information or further details, visit www.GeeksOnABeach.com, follow on Twitter/Facebook Geeks On A Beach, or contact hello@GeeksOnABeach.com.

Coke Studio: OPM Artists Collab for Special Music Offerings on TV5

Wazzup Pilipinas!
We often see singers, musicians, artists, and many others in similar fields in entertainment collaborate to produce alternative offerings to their fans or audience. You'll see them partner with each other at albums, concerts and gigs, but I believe this is the first time that a collaboration as big as this one, spearheaded by Coca-Cola Philippines, has ever been made.

The softdrink brand has put together several artists in one project which grouped several artists into two, to come up with musical offerings that fans would go gaga over - preferably for a long time and not just a fad.

Based on studies, OPM artists are still preferred as second to foreign ones. Filipinos still love to hear music from foreigners rather than our very own Filipino musicians. Well, we need not tell you that we still have a long way to go to reach 100% patriotism, which also probably why it makes us a lot more knowledgeable when it comes to content outside the Philippines. Interesting enough, we would see foreign artists frequently being flown in the country for special concerts at fabulously high ticket prices, while Filipino artists get an itsy bitsy of that.

We have to commend Coca-Cola for sponsoring such an activity, and TV5 for broadcasting these special collaborations among artists. We need more of these to keep OPM alive and kicking because we believe that we can soar higher with regards to the music industry if only we make and maintain OPM as cool as foreign music.

Court Denies TRO on PUV Modernization

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The PUV Modernization Program is still a go.

This, after Quezon City RTC Branch 80 denied yesterday, 14 August 2017, the application for Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) filed by Angat Tsuper Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator ng Pilipinas - Genuine Organization Inc. (Stop & Go) against the implementation of Department Order No. ‎2017-011, otherwise known as the Omnibus Franchising Guidelines (OFG), issued by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) last 19 June 2017.

In a statement, Atty. Reinier Paul Yebra, DOTr Undersecretary for Legal Affairs and Procurement, emphasized that the granting of a Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) to PUV operators is not a right, but a mere privilege, subject to police power of the state through the DOTr and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

Usec. Yebra likewise argued that there is no urgency and irreparable injury that will justify issuance of the TRO as the target roll-out and full implementation of the PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP) is still in 2018, and that LTFRB has not yet issued the necessary Memorandum Circulars as basis of specific implementation schedules.

As a major component of the PUVMP, the OFG introduces reforms in granting of franchises by implementing new rules in planning routes and improving standards for operators and vehicles. Under the Guidelines, local government units (LGUs) will plan public transport routes based on the current travel patterns in their areas. These routes will be reflected in the Local Public Transport Route Plan (LPTRP) of LGUs which will serve as basis for the issuance of franchise by the LTFRB.

The release of the OFG has paved the way for the lifting of the moratorium on the acceptance of new applications for the issuance of CPCs, which was in force since 2003. This forms part of the PUVMP that seeks to provide safer, more comfortable and environmentally sustainable mode of public transport to commuters by upgrading vehicles to meet international safety, energy efficiency and emission standards.

Other proposed specifications of vehicles under the PUVMP include an Automatic Fare Collection System (AFCS), closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, a GPS navigation system, dashboard cameras, Wi-Fi, and speed limiters.

Mga Awit At Tula Sa Wikang Pilipino Sa Byahe sa Metro

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Maligayang Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa ngayong Agosto!

Isang lupon ng iba ibang grupo sa musika at pagtula ang kasalukuyang nagtatanghal sa loob ng LRT 2 Stations simula noong Agosto 10 hanggang Agosto 31. Layon po nila na tumulong sa pagpapalaganap ng kaalaman sa mga tao ng ating pagdiriwang ng Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa 2017 sa pamamagitan ng libreng pagtatanghal sa wikang Pilipino ng mga awit at tula. Sa pakikipagtulungan ng pamunuan ng LRTA, sila po ay sumusuporta sa gawain at adhikain ng Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino para sa buwan na ito.

Ang slogan sa taong ito ay "Filipino Wikang Mapagbago" at naniniwala sila na malaki ang maitutulong ng pagpapalaganap sa paggamit ng wika sa larangan ng turismo, edukasyon, kultura (kasama na ang musika at tula, hanggang sa media) gayun din pagpapakilala sa talento ng Pilipino. Sa pamamagitan din nito, nais nila maibalik ang interes ng tao sa musikang Pilipino maging sa iba pang uri ng sining na pinakilala ang Pilipinas.

Sila ay nagsimula sa pagtatanghal sa mga kalye nuong Oktubre 2014 kung saan kami po inilathala din ng Interaksyon TV5 at nakapagdaos na din ng isang maliit na konsyerto noon sa People's Park In The Sky sa pahintulot ng Munisipyo ng Tagaytay kung saan sila ay tumugtog ng mga pinasikat na awiting Pilipino at inilathala ng Wazzup Pilipinas at Rappler. Ito ang kanilang unang pagtatanghal na lahat ng awit at tula ay sa ating sariling wika.

Ang mga musikang kanilang aawitin ay mga pinasikat na awit sa wikang Filipino at mga sariling obra sa wikang Filipino ng mga kasamang manunulat. Gayundin din ay kanilang ipapakilala ang mga likhang tula, tulang liham at talumpati sa Wikang Filipino ng ilang kasamahan na naglaan ng panahon para sa gawaing ito. 

Yamaha RevPinas Kicks Off at Udyakan Festival in Kabankalan

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RevPinas is Yamaha’s nationwide festival tour that embraces different celebrations that our culture has to offer. To begin the “pambansang piyesta” they headed to the Udyakan Festival. Yamaha mounted its own inflated theme park at the Kabankalan Municipal plaza which was opened by City Mayor Isidro P. Zayco, Yamaha Marketing Section Senior Manger Mr. Jude Camus and Isabel Villaceran of DES Marketing.

The first ever inflated park by Yamaha had its own giant slides and play areas for guests to enjoy. Activities included the Rev Claw that had miniature Revvy Bears and a photo booth. Attendees had the opportunity to explore Yamaha’s Motorcycles that were on display in the event area. This allowed the community to learn more about the different products of Yamaha and how each has a perfect fit in their lifestyle. The Automatic motorcycles express the rider’s individuality. The Mio Aerox enforces a life of speed and NMax offers comfort and efficiency. The all new SZ, FZi, and TFX 150 is attitude on wheels that raises fulfillment in every Rev. and for those who tread on a different path they can have the XTZ 125 for their Off-Road adventures. Last but not least is the YTX 125 that redefines the business model and promises strength, stability, and comfort.

A parade around the city included Yamaha’s own Revvy Bear and over 200 riders from Yamaha Clubs’ M.O.R. Negros, Southern Negros Motorcycle Alliance, All Mio Club Bacolod.

The event also featured the Yamaha Pinaka FiesTalentado Contest showcasing the locals in their best performances. There were plenty of skills shown during the auditions which built more anticipation for the Grand Finals. As each finalist showcased their best only a few could be recognized as the best of the best. The Champion of the contest was Lovella Joy Perez Clavel who delivered an outstanding song performance. She was followed by the dance artistry of duo Violito Pantonilla and Kristine Joy Vinson. Rounding out the top 3 of the contest is Steffani Cliff Garcia who gave a stunning song number herself. With so much musical merriment going on in the fiesta it was only appropriate that it was highlighted by a masterful showcase by Rock and Roll icon Bamboo.

The Yamaha Rev Pinas in Kabankalan may have ended but the “piyesta ng bayan’ has just started and its coming to Baler this August 16-19 for the Coconut Festival.

Yamaha Club Unveils New System and Sponsors

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Yamaha Motor Philippines Inc. has built an incredible community for riders where they can thrive through their passion and dedication for riding. The Yamaha Club began with a special discount privilege for all their members and this 2017, they have created a rewards system to give their riders a greater level of exclusivity.

During their pressconference at the Y-ZONE last August 12,2017 they announced that the purchase of any Yamaha Club member of any Yamaha parts,Apparel, Yamalube, and Helmets will now have an equal amount of points which they can exchange for premium items or an inclusion to a special Yclub event.

Also, it was the introduction of the sponsors of the club. The Consumer Care Products Incorporated, Petron Corporation, FDR Tires, and Racing Boy. They stated that the involvement of their brand is not only a testment to their dedication to Yamaha Club riders but also the fusion of innovation between the companies.

Yamaha Motor Philippines Inc. Sales and Marketing Director Kaoru Ogura alongside Marketing Section Senior Manager, Ryan Jude Camus led the official contract signing and a celebratory toast that marked the beginning of great things for the Yamaha Club.

PH Must Embrace Tech Disruption and Innovation to Stay Competitive — IPC

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Tholons recently released its latest Top 100 Outsourcing Destinations global survey and unfortunately five local business hubs, including Metro Manila, were demoted from last year as they fell short in new measures related to digital innovation. For IPC (IP Converge Data Services, Inc.), the results only signify how digital transformation is a vital element in business growth, and that it should serve as a wakeup call for organizations who have not yet embraced a digital mindset.

“Business technology has evolved to the point that it is now recognized as a requirement for any company as it provides the capabilities needed to remain relevant and competitive in today’s digital age,“ said IPC Chief Operating Officer (COO) Dave De Leon.

Tholons decided to add digital innovation as a key parameter in this year’s rankings as a result of digital transformation disrupting the global outsourcing industry. The survey also notes that the rapid adoption of digital solutions in the workplace is the result of today’s clients asking for more transformational and innovative services, and that those who stick with traditional business models will be challenged to deliver.

With the adequate skills, process, and technology required, the decision to go digital at first appears to be overwhelming, especially to startups and SMBs (small and medium businesses). This however has proven to be false and reports have revealed that the benefits heavily outweigh the risks. A Mckinsey study revealed that B2B companies that utilize digital technology generate 8 percent more shareholder returns and a revenue compound annual growth rate (CAGR) that is five times greater than their peers.

Difficult alone

Despite the benefits however, IPC notes that the decision to go digital can be challenging due to several key factors to consider, with the most common being the adequate skills, process, and technology required. For Niño Valmonte, IPC’s Director for Marketing & Digital Innovation, this is because digital transformation does not merely pertain to the use of digital tools in an organization, but is an initiative that should be approached holistically, taking into consideration people, processes, and technologies as critical components of the digital pivot towards business success.

With all these factors to consider, the road to complete digital transformation may appear to be overwhelming, especially for large organizations. According to IPC, it is important for businesses to select the right partner to work with. Access to emerging technologies and global best practices in operational efficiency and change management are paramount in this selection process. The partnership model is a viable method that local companies can turn to, in order to flourish and even improve their status in the international stage, as evident in the Tholons survey.

“Working hand in hand with the right partner can help businesses implement a digital transformation strategy at a faster rate and with cost-efficiency. It also gives them a competitive edge by providing the expertise, technology, and practices needed to spur productivity and growth, and this journey can be difficult to embark on especially if an organization’s expertise is not in the area of IT,” said Valmonte.

De Leon adds that this is a tried-and-true decision where a company can fully enjoy the benefits of its investments in technology. “Teaming up with a digital partner who specializes in technology minimizes the risks involved when facing it alone as they adhere to the best and up-to-date practices.”

As part of its efforts to share and promote the best business IT practices and trends, IPC is currently bringing digital transformation directly to Metro Manila’s business hubs in #DiscoverDigital, a campaign that consists of various activities and seminars facilitated by experts including seminars with the overall objective of empowering Filipino enterprises and organizations, whether large or SME, to think out of the box and make the digital pivot towards operational efficiency, profitability and business success.

To know more about how digital transformation can help your business, you can visit www.ipc.ph/en. You can also register for #DiscoverDigital through www.ipc.ph/discoverdigital.