Sprout Solutions Supports Local Startup Community in PH Through a Series of Free Learning Sessions

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Sprout Solutions, the fastest-growing Filipino tech startup providing a complete suite of HR software tools specifically made for the Philippine business environment, gives back by supporting the country’s startup community through its series of free learning seminars called Sprout Academy.

Through this initiative, Sprout seeks to bring the Silicon Valley culture to the Philippines where there is a free exchange of ideas and best practices across industries.

“In 2015, Sprout was accepted by Acceleprise, a Silicon Valley enterprise SaaS accelerator; this made us see the importance of knowledge-sharing, especially among the local industry players and entrepreneurs,” said Patrick Gentry, Sprout Solutions CEO and Co-founder. “We believe that through events like Sprout Academy, we can contribute to the continuous growth of the local startup community.”

Recently, Sprout held the sixth leg of the series, which gathered more than 100 participants from the startup sector, as well as students and individuals who plan to put up their own business.







This time, the session focused on how entrepreneurs can unlock explosive growth for their company. Sprout’s very own Patrick Gentry, who was recently named 2017 Philippine Rice Bowl Startup Awards Founder of the Year, shared some of his personal experiences and feasible strategies for boosting their startup.

Gentry emphasized that one of the primary issues that entrepreneurs, especially starters, should consider is to solve a specific need.

“Some of the most successful startups are very specific in solving an existing pain point. But to achieve stable growth, you have to cultivate the solution you offer through constant experimentation. It also pays to invest in creating good relations with the people you work with, and banking on the right tools and technologies,” Gentry mentioned.

Aside from Gentry, the event was also graced by Ravi Agarwal, the CEO of engageSPARK and the man behind some of the most successful startups based in Boston in the US.

During his discussion, Agarwal talked about the benefits of investing in product innovation which should go beyond just meeting the needs of the customers but more importantly, sparking excitement by touching their unspoken needs.

Apart from Sprout Academy, the company also stages other free learning sessions like Innovate where HR practitioners come together every month to hear from industry experts and discuss different ways to improve the way HR is done in the country.

Sprout is also sponsoring the Philippines HR Group Summit 2017 with the theme, Transformational HR: Agile and Future Ready for the Millennials and Generation Z Workforce, happening on November 23.

To stay updated on the latest HR trends and to know more about Sprout Solutions, visit their website or their official Facebook page.

The Yamaha Club Riders Getaway Visayas

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Yamaha Motor Philippines Inc. continues to cultivate the culture of its riders with moments that strengthen their bond. The Riders Getaway was created for that exact purpose and is divided into different legs that include the 3 major regions of the Philippines.

The Visayas edition took 111 riders to Camp Campuestuhan Highland Resort where they enjoyed a day of fun filled activities. First it was an action filled competition in the ultimate frisbee battle. Then creativity was the name of the game for the ‘Baby Shark’ dance competition. Last but not the least, it was a total team effort for the relay that added extra difficulty because it was set on a foam swimming pool. The overall champions for the games was Team Gray and the MVP award was given to Mr. Noveh De Los Santos of All Mio Club Bacolod.

What makes this event extra special is the experience that can’t be replaced or replicated. Also, the miles ridden and relationships formed and revitalized will last beyond the ride. The Yamaha Rider’s Getaway will have its culminating trip on January as they head to Marawi for a mission that uplifts the Filipino Community.


THE PARTICIPATING CLUBS FOR THE RIDERS GETAWAY VISAYAS LEG:
All Mio Club

Bacolod
Iloilo
San Carlos
Escalante
Team Mio Soul i Negros
Sniper MX Owners Club Kabankalan
Mio Owners Republic Negros

Viral Sensation The Sacred Riana Crowned Winner of Asia’s Got Talent Season 2 on AXN

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Asia is spooked: After 10 riveting weeks and hundreds of acts from 15 countries, Asia has voted ‘possessed’ Indonesian illusionist The Sacred Riana as the winner of Asia’s Got Talent Season 2 on AXN.

The Sacred Riana, whose real name is Marie Antoinette Riana Graharani, has become the most anticipated act of the season. Her spooky persona and terrifying magic tricks during the judges’ auditions, semi-finals and grand final episodes collectively achieved over 70 million views on Facebook and YouTube, making her a global sensation.

The Sacred Riana faced serious competition in last week’s grand final show, and was up against the season’s most dynamic and popular acts including runner-up DM-X Comvalenos from the Philippines, Mongolian digital dance/artist Canion Shijirbat, Malaysia-based illusionist Sobhi Shaker, Indonesian harpist and singer Angela July, ADEM Dance Crew from Kyrgyzstan, ukulele child prodigy Feng E from Taiwan, beatboxer Neil Rey Gracia Llanes and Urban Crew both from the Philippines. Ultimately, it was The Sacred Riana who rallied the most votes to take home the grand prize of US$100,000, courtesy of presenting sponsor, Traveloka.

“The viewer response to Asia’s Got Talent Season 2 has been truly overwhelming on both pay-TV and social platforms and we are thrilled to produce such a well-loved series for AXN audiences across the region,” said Virginia Lim, Senior Vice President and Head of Content, Production and Marketing, Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia. “I extend my warmest congratulations to The Sacred Riana and to all the other grand finalists who made it so far. Asia’s Got Talent is the world’s biggest talent show and we hope that the series inspires the next generation of Asia’s stars to pursue their dreams.”




The Sacred Riana, who is an illusionist of very few words and does not break character even off-stage, appeared to single out and petrify judge Anggun in each of her acts. In the grand final, The Sacred Riana made a star tattoo suddenly appear on the superstar’s hand, before disappearing into a small box and re-emerging seconds later behind a shocked Anggun.

The hit-rated season of Asia’s Got Talent culminated with powerhouse judges, David Foster, Anggun and Jay Park taking over the stage with individual performances. David delighted the audience on piano with his world-famous piece, “Love Theme from St. Elmo’s Fire”; Anggun dazzled with her new single “What We Remember” from her latest album ‘8’; and Jay Park performed the world premiere of his new single “Forget About Tomorrow” with Yultron, backed by eight Korean hip-hop dancers.
“Our esteemed judges, David, Anggun and Jay, have been integral to the Asia’s Got Talent experience this season. Their quick wit, immense style, humor and insightful advice helped secure Asia’s Got Talent as the number one series on pay TV every Thursday night,” Lim said.

Asia’s Got Talent is the 67th adaptation of the Guinness-World-Record-breaking hit “Got Talent” format, which was created by Simon Cowell’s Syco Entertainment and is co-produced by FremantleMedia. The “Got Talent” format is officially the most successful reality TV format in history and currently airs in 186 countries.

Asia’s Got Talent is supported by presenting sponsor Traveloka, the leading travel booking app for all flight and hotel needs; sponsoring partner Great Eastern Life, the market leader in the conventional life insurance business and the largest life insurer in Malaysia by asset size; GoDaddy, the world's largest cloud platform dedicated to small, independent ventures and 100Plus, the number one isotonic drink.
In the Philippines, Asia’s Got Talent is brought to you by Cherifer, Tangkad Sagad, KFC Delivery and Vivo Smart Phone.
Marina Bay Sands, Asia’s leading business, leisure and entertainment destination, is the official venue partner of Asia’s Got Talent.

@AsiasGotTalent / #AXNAsia / #AsiasGotTalent / #AsiasGotTalentAuditions
www.AXN-Asia.com/AsiasGotTalent
AXN is available on Cablelink Channel 38, Cignal Channel 121, Destiny Cable Channel 61, Dream Satellite TV Channel 20, G Sat Channel 51, and SKYCable Channel 49. AXN HD is available on SKYCable Channel 247.

Ang Larawan Gets a Unanimous “A” from the Cinema Evaluation Board

Photo caption: The team of Ang Larawan. First row (seated), L-R: cast members Aicelle Santos, Rachel Alejandro, Paulo Avelino and Cris Villonco. Second row (seated), L-R: executive producer Girlie Rodis, executive producer Celeste Legaspi, and cast members Nanette Inventor, Dulce, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Cara Manglapus. Third row (standing): producer Alemberg Ang, composer Ryan Cayabyab, actor Bernardo Bernardo, director Loy Arcenas and actor Rayver Cruz.

Wazzup Pilipinas!

“Ang Larawan,” the lone musical entry in this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival, has gotten a grade of “A” from the Cinema Evaluation Board (CEB).

The musical written by National Artist for Theater Rolando Tinio and composed by Ryan Cayabyab is the only film this year wherein all CEB eleven members who previewed gave the highest grade. The CEB summation stated, “It is seldom and rare that the members of the Board give a unanimous A to a film.“

Based on the play A Portrait of the Artist as Filipino by National Artist for Literature Nick Joaquin, “Ang Larawan” tells of how financially troubled Marasigan sisters Candida and Paula hold on to their father’s masterpiece in spite of great interest and attractive offers from potential buyers.

West End star Joanna Ampil plays Candida while multi-awarded pop singer/host and entrepreneur Rachel Alejandro portrays Paula. Urian Best Actor Paulo Avelino takes the role of Tony Javier, the boarder who is persuading the sisters to sell the painting to an American buyer.

The rest of the cast features a stellar ensemble composed of OPM stalwarts Celeste Legaspi, Dulce, and Nanette Inventor; stage and film luminaries Robert Arevalo, Nonie Buencamino, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Noel Trinidad, Jaime Fabregas, Leo Rialp and Bernardo Bernardo; and young stars Aicelle Santos, Cris Villonco, Cara Manglapus, Jojit Lorenzo and Rayver Cruz. OPM icons Ogie Alcasid and Zsa Zsa Padilla have very special roles.

Culturtain Musicat Productions is the production outfit behind this film directed by Loy Arcenas.

The CEB praised the various aspects of production with one member citing that the movie is “enthralling, captivating and beautifully helmed!” The board described the performances by the leads and supports as “excellent.” Another member reiterated that, “’Larawan’ is a brilliant, fabulous production with great acting and excellent technical elements.”

As soon as CEB grade was released, the filmmakers took to social media to express their gratitude and joy. “Wow! What a blessing!” said Rachel Alejandro; while Celeste Legaspi declared, “Very proud!” Joanna, who is touring as part of the international production of “Cats,” wrote on Facebook, “All the hard work is paying off.”

“Ang Larawan” is Joanna’s first starring role in a film and she began preparing for it way back in 2014.

The CEB recognition is the latest of a string of accolades that “Ang Larawan” has been receiving ever since its world premiere at the Tokyo International Film Festival last October. Variety’s Richard Kuipers said, “This musical adaptation of a beloved Filipino play is a class act.” Local press and writers who have watched the film at an advanced preview are predicting “Ang Larawan” will be embraced by music-loving moviegoers and will be a strong contender for MMFF awards.

The film has also gotten endorsements from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), Senator Bam Aquino, Congresswoman Pia Cayetano, and Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas.

Noting that “Ang Larawan” is a period movie, not a formula film, and that the musical genre remains untested, the CEB commended Culturtain Musicat Productions for taking a risk. “So, kudos, congrats, and thanks to the brave, intrepid band of producers and their fearless funders for this film. May their tribe increase and may this movie reach as wide an audience as possible.” Furthermore, the CEB made a clear call to the moviegoers “to see this film and spread the good word: go out and see Filipino films!”


For updates and information, check out anglarawan.com and facebook.com/AngLarawanTheMovie/

5 services to consider when venturing into ecommerce

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Are you thinking about setting up an ecommerce business? It’s difficult to know where to start when it comes to taking steps which will ensure you’re successful. Luckily, there are a number of different tools out there which will give you an advantage in the set-up process. Let’s explore five of the best.

1. AdWords

Google AdWords is a terrific service which makes targeting your audience much simpler. When trying to rank as highly in search engine results as possible, targeting certain keywords is crucial for success. This strategy plays a huge part in most digital marketing campaigns. Understanding what to write in your listings, and what to include as your title is crucial to success.

2. Shoppify

If you’re looking for a perfect platform to build your website on, Shoppify is a solid tool to turn to. This service effectively acts as the spine of your website, providing you with a template on which to build and customise a fully-functioning website.

3. SearchSpring

Arguably one of the most important tools for shoppers, SearchSpring allows users to see what products are most likely going to appeal to them. This works by collecting data from their previous search results and filtering for products on your site. If the buyer journey is made easier than you’re likely to achieve more success.

4. Crazy Egg

Crazy egg shows a heat-map of where your visitors are clicking on your website. As Applied Innovations point out, they can have a huge impact on where you’re putting your most valuable content. Placing this where people are regularly reading itwill theoretically result in better conversion rates and exposure.

5. DPM

Slow page load time is one of the most surprising factors when it comes to turning customers off your site. Implementing the use of a digital performance management tool will highlight where speed is lacking, and how you can improve this. Most of these tools offer conversion rate improvements as standard, or your money back.

Have these services for ecommerce websites made things clearer? If you’re looking to create a strong new website, make sure to take advantage of at least a few of them.

Universal Records Signs New Promising Band Better Days

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Better Days formally signed a recording contract with Universal Records on Monday. The band is composed of Daniel Paringit on vocals and guitars, Jaro delos Reyes on guitar, Gelo Cabigon on bass and Rosner Mabuti on keyboards. Better Days is managed by Soupstar Entertainment, home to 6cyclemind, Imago, Sandwich, Hilera, Pedicab, and Moonstar88. They now join Gary Valenciano, Christian Bautista, Noel Cabangon, Parokya ni Edgar, Gloc-9, Sponge Cola, Aiza Seguerra, Claudia Barretto, Donny Pangilinan, Julie Anne San Jose and Elmo Magalona, in the elite roster of Universal Records’ prime artists.

The contract signing was held at the Universal Records office in Quezon City. Present with the band members were Universal Records General Manager Kathleen Dy Go and Soupstar Entertainment head Darwin Hernandez.

The band is currently preparing to record their original songs and looking forward to more live performances so they can reach an audience they hope to be their supporters in the future. They are optimistic that there are indeed better days ahead for them. Better Days is set to release their debut single in January 2018.

Follow Better Days:

Facebook, Twitter and Instagram : @betterdaystour

Tugade Orders Transport Sectors to Intensify Security As Christmas Season Draws Near

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade today directed all transport sectors – railways, road, maritime and aviation – to further intensify their respective safety and security measures in preparation for the Christmas Season when thousands flock to transport terminals to travel and spend the Holidays in the provinces.

DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade also reminded transportation officials and personnel to assure the riding public not only safety and security, but also comfort while in the various bus terminals, sea and airports, and train stations.

“May I once again reiterate the great importance of maintaining and assuring the safety, security and comfort of the riding passengers and the public. Accordingly, please continue implementing and improving our security and safety measures to protect people, facility, structures, equipment, and the like,” Secretary Tugade said.

The transportation chief also pointed out that both the government and commuting public “must be proactive, alert and vigilant”, share information and maintain close coordination among stakeholders that would further improve the security safety nets in the transport sectors.

During the All Saints’/All Souls Day commemoration last November, the different transport sectors activated their Oplan Biyaheng Ayos to ensure the security and safety of the thousands of commuters flocking to the transport hubs for the traditional exodus to the provinces.

Top 25 Teams Advance to Philippine Startup Challenge 4 Semis

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Twenty-five teams composed of students from different colleges and universities are moving to the Semi-final Round of the Philippine Startup Challenge (PSC) 4, the national competition for college students aspiring to be the next big startup geniuses.

Trimmed down from a pool of 202 entries, the 25 selected teams will now undergo coaching for further development of the teams’ ideas, which attempt to give technological solutions to various societal concerns on transportation, health, environment, agriculture, security, and even food shortage.

After the coaching sessions and evaluation of the teams’ Business Model Canvass and Minimum Viable Product, further judging and assessment will determine the ten (10) teams who will advance into the National Finals on April 2018.

The Philippine Startup Challenge is organized by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Philippine Software Industry Association (PSIA) together with industry partners Ideaspace Philippines, Huawei Technologies Philippines, Microsoft and Philippine Society of IT Educators (PSITE).



Below are the Top 25 Entries advancing to PSC 4 Semi-Finals:



ARKILA by Team Arki Devs from Lorma Colleges: Arkila is a ride-hailing and logistics services transport solution app that offers wide range of vehicle selection.



BLOODPLUS by Team BloodPlus from the University of San Jose – Recoletos: BloodPlus is a web and mobile application where people can request for blood if they are urgently in need for blood and notifies eligible blood donors.



BUHAY++ by Team Buhay from the University of Cebu, Main: Buhay++ is an Online Platform for Ethical and Legal Organ Donations



BUILD by Team Build from Bulacan State University: BUILD is a web and mobile application wherein buyers (clients) and suppliers (bidders) from different areas can connect through one centralized electronic procurement system.



CONVASS by Team Cord from the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines: Convass is a website for online canvassing and purchasing of construction materials for government agencies whose budget is Php50, 000 below.



E-PURSE by e-Pursuers from the University of Southeastern Philippines: e-Purse is mobile wallet application that digitally pays the items and also store changes up until the last cent.



FACE TRACK 2.0 by Team Trackers from Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology: Face Track 2.0 was inspired by the slow inspection system in Iligan City that would take an hour for verification of each citizen and that disturbs the activities and appointments of each citizens and sometimes, unmonitored or lack of enforcement.



GIMME SPOT by Team Gimme Spot from the University of Southeastern Philippines: Gimme Spot is a toilet finder for both public and private toilet. it will also let you host your own private toilet to be rented.



IN-SHOE TRACKER by Team Wayfarer from Bulacan State University: Wayfarer is a tracking device designed to track travelers by incorporating the device in the traveler’s shoes using piezoelectric transducer.



JAC IN THE BOX by Team Eventrix from Bulacan State University: Jac in the box is an application intended to provide convenience in organizing celebrations and surprises based on the customer's time and budget, delivering all services directly to them.



LABADO by Team Rushmore from Saint Louis University: Labado is a pickup, wash, and deliver service that provides transient students a convenient way to have their laundry done.



LAUX by Team AQ from Ateneo de Davao University: Laux is a service app primarily handling laundry services that focuses on cleaning, washing, and dry cleaning clothes.



LINKMED by Team Nexus from Bulacan State University: LinkMed aims to make the Philippines’ doctor services to become more flexible by reaching the distant patient and extending the hospital services by using technology.



LINQUE by Team Linquers from the University of Southeastern Philippines: Linque is for all sari-sari store owners and company's sales workers who are experienced hassle delivery, inefficient and improper distribution of goods.



LUGAN by Team The Boys from the University of the Cordilleras: Lugan is a shared ride service that picks up multiple passengers heading in the same direction and keeping rides affordable and easy.



MOMENTS by Team Eksena from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines: Moments is a web-based platform as a service to be used by event organizers in finding event resources provided by legit businessmen.



MYMDLAB by Team The Elaborators from Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation: myMDLab is a mobile and digital application that lets the patient request for laboratory services at the comfort of his home.



PARKinLOT by Team Accelerate from Saint Louis University: ParkInLot, is a mobile-web application that will help lessen road obstruction by utilizing unused parking.



PETPAL CO. by Team Bangan from Ateneo de Davao University: Petpal Co. is an application that can help you find trusted pet sitters.



SENTINEL by Team #Proud IIT from Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology: Sentinel is a Smart Watch with GPS locator with a feature that, when activated, will locate the person in any place.



S.M.S by Team Fibonacci from Gordon College: S.M.S or Send me to school is a scholarship-matching application designed to ease the scholarship searching and application process.



SWIFT by Team The Night’s Watch from Colegio de la Purisima Concepcion: Swift lets you hire bike and motorcycle riders to deliver your documents from point A to point B securely, easily, and swiftly.



TAP TRACK by Team TechnoGeeks from University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines: Tap Track is a Portable RFID Based Attendance Management System with SMS Transmission for Field Workers.



TRAVEL WATCH by Team Metanoia from Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology: Travel watch is an IoT technology that helps the drivers to stay alert, secure and safe throughout the travel.



VENTURE PAL by by Team Rocket from University of Cebu – Main: Venture Pal is an online investment pooling platform for Philippine Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.

Benilde Dance Major Wins in Malaysia

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Olivia Bugayong, a third year dance student from the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, recently won the bronze medal in the senior category of the second Malaysian International Ballet Grand Prix.

The competition, which ran from November 26 to 30, was divided into three stages — preliminary, eliminations and final. Participants were judged based on both classical repertoire (80%) and contemporary pieces (20%).

After the total score was accumulated, Bugayong was among the ten finalists who got into the final round of her category. She eventually became the first Filipino who made it to the top three of the said competition.

The DLS-CSB scholar is grateful to dance faculty Nina Anonas, her coach for ballet who joined her in Malaysia; dance chair Christine Crame, her mentor for contemporary; and associate dean Dr. Sunita Mukhi for her support to the Benilde’s Arts and Culture Cluster.





The MIBGP organizers, witnessing the growth of ballet and the performing arts scene, worked with the HELP College of Art and Technology to launch the competition in 2016.

The event aims to provide opportunities for all dance enthusiasts globally, boost the status of dancing, build integrity and friendship among dance enthusiasts, and share the knowledge of ballet.

Bugayong started her classical ballet training when she was just three years old at the Vella C. Damian School of Ballet, Inc. where she learned the Australian Conservatoire of Ballet Syllabus under the tutelage of Damian herself.

The dance major previously won the gold medal at the 2016 Hong Kong Challenge Cup Dance Competition. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts named her one of its Ani ng Dangal awardees the following year for her achievement.

She performed the role of Black Swan in Crame’s contemporary choreography of Swan Lake with the Saint Benilde Romançon Dance Company and also played the part of Ina in Brillante Mendoza‘s Ang Pagtatapos which aired on TV5 last April 22.

Tilda Appleseed Animation Wins Asian Television Award for Best Preschool Program

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Hamburg-based WunderWerk GmbH along with Manila’s ASI Studios Inc. & Singapore’s August Media Holdings have announced that their animated pre-school production Tilda Appleseed has won the Asian Television Awards 2017 in the BEST PRE-SCHOOL SHOW category. Speaking about the win, Gisela Schaefer, Managing Director at WunderWerk said, “We are delighted to have received the award. This recognizes the true beauty of the characters and the simple but key values that this show will deliver to it pre-school audiences.”

For her part, Jackeline Chua, Managing Partner at ASI Studios Inc. said, “The show presented for the studio, a particularly unique challenge in its art style. Once again our team demonstrated its versatility by not only taking on that challenge but also creating award winning works.”

The recently completed Tilda Appleseed is based on Andreas Schmachtl’s book series of the same name. The series follows the adventures of a spirited mouse with a big heart and an even bigger imagination – Tilda. The series is filled with many wonderful characters who model friendship in marvelous ways. This show about friendship and problem solving is designed for pre-schoolers and features an art style that completely resembles water colored books. The first season of the show was delivered in 2017 and a second season of 52 episodes is currently in the works.





WunderWerk had developed the book series into a TV series under license from German broadcaster, MDR/SWR for KiKA and is also the lead producer of the series. The series is animated at ASI Studios and co-produced by Synergy88 and August Media Holdings.

For August Media Holdings, this is the 6th nomination in the last 3 years, 4 of which have been for shows produced in partnership with ASI Studios Inc. Founder of August Media Holdings (who is also a partner at ASI Studios), Jyotirmoy Saha said, “It’s wonderful to hit a home run year after year. I am proud of my teams at ASI and August Media and the association between the two companies.”

Tilda Appleseed is currently on air on MDR/SWR in Germany, Good TV in Taiwan and is available on the recently launched Over-the-top platform Tapow™ media streaming and download service. The show is soon to air on multiple other networks in various parts of the world starting the early half of 2018.