Always-on and Always Connected – Meet the New Lenovo Miix 630 2-in-1 Detachable

Wazzup Pilipinas!

This CES 2018, we’re teaming up with Qualcomm and Microsoft to bring mobile computing to consumers in a whole new way. Meet the new Miix 630, Lenovo’s latest Windows 10 S 2-in-1 detachable that gives you the power and productivity of a laptop with the always on, always connected mobility of a smartphone.1 This isn’t just Wi-Fi. We’re talking about true anytime, anywhere mobility – with integrated 4G LTE1 so you don’t have to just rely on finding a Wi-Fi hotspot. Now you can have the instant-on, whisper-quiet operation of a smartphone in the form of a versatile 2-in-1 detachable with a full-sized keyboard and digital pen included.2

Here are the top five benefits the new Miix 630 can make in your productivity.


#1: Everyday PC Performance

We built the Miix 630 with Qualcomm’s innovative Snapdragon™ 835 Mobile PC Platform on the Windows 10 S operating system, so you can get work done on the go. Its full-sized backlit keyboard with precision touchpad gives you a comfortable and convenient typing experience to compile reports, design presentations or crunch numbers. We’ve also equipped it with a Lenovo digital pen with 1,024 levels of sensitivity so you can draw, sketch or annotate with Windows Ink™ for a natural pen-on-paper experience.

The Miix 630 runs on Windows 10 S, making it ideal for users who want consistent performance and streamlined security by running apps exclusively from the Microsoft Store. If you prefer the familiarity of Windows 10 Pro, the Miix 630 allows you to upgrade at no cost so you can choose the operating system that fits your needs.3


#2: Fast Smartphone Connectivity

We made the Miix 630 for today’s mobile generation. It delivers the kind of always-on, always connected1 freedom that smartphone users expect, and what laptop users want. Whether you’re working from a coffee shop or airport, you can now eliminate dependence on public Wi-Fi networks or the hassle of having to create a hotspot from your phone.

More than just anytime, anywhere connectivity, the Miix 630 offers lightning-fast connections1. Its integrated 4G LTE1 is designed for fast download speeds allowing you to check emails, share files, shop online or stream your favorite show without a hitch.


#3: Your Mobile Sidekick

Even with its keyboard, the Miix 630 is just 15.6mm (0.6 in) and featherlight weighing just 1.33kg (2.93 lbs).  The Miix 630 offers incredibly long battery life of up to 20 hours of local video playback4 -- letting you leave the power cord at home. Better yet, the Miix 630 gives you constant connection even in standby mode – offering longer battery usage.5 Standby mode lets you stay connected with up-to-the-minute emails, notifications, message syncing and Skype calls in standby mode – all without draining your battery.


#4: Smooth, Quiet Operator

The Miix 630 is built with a fan-less design that packs more power with efficient heat processing into a smaller Snapdragon 835 mobile chipset. Its quiet operations make it ideal for working in quiet public spaces like the library, classroom or co-working space.


#5:  Versatile Inside and Out

The Miix 630 2-in-1 detachable gives you five ways to intuitively interact with your device. Browse social media or watch videos on its 12.3-inch WUXGA+ touchscreen tablet, draw and edit with its Lenovo digital pen, or attach its full-sized keyboard to comfortably type those longer emails. The detachable keyboard can serve as a screen protector when you’re on the go.

The Miix 630 also offers amazing personalization. Windows 10 S enables Cortana®, your voice-enabled intelligent personal digital assistant, on the Miix 630. Get reminders, track flights, send short emails, play music and much more – all with just your voice. Pair its infrared camera with Windows Hello™ for quick and more secure log-in to your Miix 630. Having biometric facial recognition adds a layer of security and personalization for instantaneous log-in.

Experience next-gen mobile computing with the Miix 630 that combines PC performance; fast integrated 4G LTE1 for anytime, anywhere connectivity; and the incredible mobility and versatility of a 2-in-1 detachable.

The Miix 630 (keyboard and Lenovo digital pen included) starts at $799.99, expected to be available beginning in 2nd quarter of 2018 on www.lenovo.com2 and will be compatible with select local carriers (prices may vary per market).1
Discover more at www.lenovo.com/lenovolaunch and www.lenovo.com/ces.


1 Requires separately purchased cellular data plan that may vary by location. Additional terms, conditions and/or charges apply. Connection speeds will vary due to location, environment, network conditions and other factors.
2 Prices do not include tax, shipping or options and are subject to change without notice; additional terms and conditions apply. Reseller prices may vary. On-shelf dates may vary by geography and products may only be available in selected markets. All offers subject to availability. Lenovo reserves the right to alter product offerings, features and specifications at any time without notice.
3 Upgrade must be within 180 days after Windows activation. All offers subject to availability and may vary by market. Lenovo reserves the right to alter product offerings, features and specifications at any time without notice.
4 Up to 20 hours based on local video playback requires unit configured with Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 SoC, 4gb RAM, 128gb UFS storage. Battery life tested using continuous FHD video playback, 1080p (1920x1080) resolution, 150 nits brightness, system audio level at 17%, player audio level at 100%, played full-screen from local storage, headphone attached, wireless on but not connected. All battery life claims are approximate. Actual battery performance will vary and depend on numerous factors including product configuration and usage, software, operating conditions, wireless functionality, power management settings, screen brightness and other factors. The maximum capacity of the battery will naturally decrease with time and usage.
5 Based on QTI Labs internal testing compared to competitive thin and light 2-in-1 devices.


LENOVO is a trademark of Lenovo. CES is a trademark of the Consumer Technology Association. Qualcomm and Snapdragon are trademarks of Qualcomm Incorporated, registered in the United States and other countries. Qualcomm Snapdragon, Qualcomm Connected Camera Platform and Qualcomm Home Hub Platform are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. MICROSOFT, WINDOWS, WINDOWS INK, WINDOWS HELLO and CORTANA are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2018, Lenovo Group Limited.

How to Cultivate Exceptional Writing Skills for Success in College and Beyond

Wazzup Pilipinas!

In today’s world, exceptional writing skills have become a major ingredient for success in both college and the workplace. Prospective students have had to demonstrate their writing ability through college application essays. Enrolled students, on the other hand, continue to utilize writing skills when writing term papers, applying for financial aid and other educational endeavors.

Looking at the workplace scenario, writing skills are still relevant. They are needed in making job applications, writing resumes, making business proposals, propositions and making effective business communications. In essence, writing skills are vital for life.

In this respect, let’s consider how you can cultivate the exceptional writing skills that will guarantee you success in your college life and beyond.




Enroll in a Writing Course

Consider enrolment in a writing course

An essential part of developing your writing skills is getting the necessary training required for exceptional writing. You can get such training through workshops, courses and targeted instruction. Depending on your goals and intended purpose, the writing course could be general or specific to your career or studying field. Writing courses, just like most courses, have a novice level, intermediate and advanced level; thus you can gauge yourself according to these levels and determine your type of training. You can choose to pursue the course in a physical training center or you can still pursue it online if the institution offers such facilities.



Have a Writing Partner

Writing partners can bring objective peer review

Peer review has been a beneficial ideal since time immemorial in virtually all fields. It typically rides on the notion of ‘iron sharpens iron’! You can greatly improve your writing skills by having a writing partner who checks, edits, proofreads and evaluates your written work. This makes you have an objective appraisal of your work which most of the time cannot be achieved if you personally reviewed the work. A writing partner can assist you immensely in checking the flow, readability, comprehensiveness and clarity of your work, whether in school or in the workplace scenario.



Utilize Writing Tools and Applications

Writing tools such as Grammarly can enhance your content

Sometimes, all we need is a writing tool to enhance the writing process. We could have the necessary set of skills to write, but the writing workload could be overwhelming. In this case, a writing tool can be of great aid. If you need to proofread your work, check on style, change the diction, tweak the vocabulary or perhaps improve the readability of your work for your niche audience, writing tools can help you. For example, grammarly.com aids in checking grammar and proofreading your work; Juicy Studio can help you improve the readability of your content, among others.



Form a Habit of Writing

Write as often as you can

It is said that it is easy to maintain a writing habit than to maintain the discipline to write. Therefore, if you want to develop exceptional writing skills, you are better off making writing a habit. To achieve this, try to write as much as you can. Write about everything and anything for you to enjoy the process. In the first instance, it may seem hard but within no time, you will live to write.



Read Widely

Reading exposes you to best writing techniques

The only way you can get versatile in the writing world is if you have a feel for what other people are writing. This means that you will have to read widely. Your best pick could be of magazines and books of popular journalists and writers. This exposes you to the strategies, techniques and methods that are being used by various renowned writers. This exposure could help you to grasp a thing or two about creating effective catchy content; which will help you greatly in your writing endeavors in college and beyond.


Practice Writing in Different Styles

Explore different writing styles

If you want to be an exceptional writer, you must determine what works for you and what doesn’t. What better way to achieve this than to try out different styles of writing! Once you embark on this, you will know which style suits you and where your proficiency lies. In addition, it may also expose you to the tenets of different writing styles which may come in handy at one time in college life or beyond.


Conclusion
These tips are sure to help you cultivate exceptional writing skills that could help you achieve success in your college life and even beyond. You can apply them as you endeavor to improve. But one thing is ultimately needed in applying them, that is, the love for writing. If you can develop the love for writing, then all these other tips will be easy to apply.

Sophia Clark graduated from the University of the City of New York with B.A. in Journalism, 2011. She is a creative writer from New York who loves to share her thoughts with readers, now she writes for EssayWriterSite. In her free time, she enjoys writing fiction as well as reading it. Her big dream is to publish a novel one day. Connect with her on Twitter and Google +.

DOTr MRT-3 Procures Independent Safety Auditor to Decide on 48 Dalian Trains’ Fate

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Department of Transportation Metro Rail Transit-3 (DOTr MRT-3) has completed the procurement of an Independent Audit and Assessment (IAA) Consultant, that will evaluate and make recommendations on what to do with the 48 cars or Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs) that have already been delivered by CRRC Dalian, in addition to evaluating and making recommendations for other components of MRT-3.

DOTr OIC Undersecretary for Railways TJ Batan said that last 3 January, the first working day of 2018, the DOTr MRT-3 Team already met with TUV Rheinland, the winning IAA Consultant.

TUV Rheinland, a German firm established in 1872, met the high qualifications set — ISO 17020 and ISO 17065 certification, and membership in the International Federation of Inspection Agencies (IFIA). Other similarly qualified firms that participated were TUV SUD and Bureau Veritas.

Commenting on whether the 48 LRVs will be used, Usec. Batan said in a press conference held yesterday, 10 January 2018, at the MRT-3 Depot, “Na-deliver na po yung mga bagon, but we are unable to accept them unless our IAA Consultant has certified their safety and compatibility with our system.”

Usec. Batan noted that the DOTr has assured the IAA that they will not interfere or influence their assessment of the 48 LRVs.

“We will not in any way try to influence their independent assessment of the 48 cars from Dalian, at tayo po ay magdedesisyon base po sa kanilang recommendation. Kung sasabihin po nila na puwede po iyang patakbuhin ng kaagad-agaran, we will consider. Kung sasabihin po nila ay patatakbuhin yan na may kinakailangang adjustments, we will consider, of course not at our expense. At kung sasabihin po nila na kailangang ibalik yan, ibabalik po natin yan,” he added.

Earlier, concerns were raised with the 48 LRVs procured by the previous administration for P3.8 billion after they exceeded the weight prescribed in the Terms of Reference (49,700-kg vs. 46,300-kg). Compatibility with the MRT-3’s maintenance facilities and signaling system were also an issue.

Usec. Batan explained that with the current fleet of Czech-made trains, MRT-3 can operate up to 20 3-car trains. If the 48 LRVs are cleared to run, that can be increased to 20 4-car trains.

“Ang original design capacity po ng MRT-3 at peak hours is 20 3-car trains, running at 60-kph, with a 3-minutes headway. Ibig po sabihin niyan ay every 3 minutes dapat may dumarating na 3 bagon,” Usec Batan said.

“At the same time po, MRT-3 was also designed to be expandable to 20 4-car trains, running with a 2-minutes headway, or 4 na bagon kada 2 minuto. Yan po ang target natin, at kung sakali pong ma clear ng ating IAA Consultant ang 48 LRVs, ay mas maaga po nating magagawa yan,” he added.


Maintenance and Spare Parts

Spare parts for the maintenance of MRT-3 will start arriving in tranches from February to June, with MRT-3 having started to procure them last November 2017.

Batan said they will utilize the Holy Week break, during which there will be no operations, to conduct general maintenance works on MRT-3.

“Tuwing Holy Week tayo po ay nagsasagawa ng general maintenance sa buong MRT-3, at yan po ang tingin namin na mainam na target para madagdagan ang bilang ng mga tumatakbong bagon. Ito po ay dahil na rin sa inaasahan naming nakarating na ang marami sa mga spare parts na na-order na at patuloy pa nating inoorder para sa MRT-3,” he said.

Based on its contract, Busan Universal Rail Inc. (BURI), the previous maintenance provider, was supposed to have completed the general overhaul of 26 LRVs by November 2017. When they were terminated last November 6, BURI was only able to overhaul 3 LRVs, which is one of the causes for their termination.


No MRT-3 Fare Hike

Usec. Batan assured train commuters that there would be no fare increase while there is no substantial improvement of MRT-3 operations, restoring convenience to its thousands of patrons daily.

“Ang commitment po natin sa sektor ng riles ay hindi po tayo magtataas ng pasahe na hindi po nakakaramdam ang ating mga commuters ng improvement sa convenience, availability at reliability po ng ating mga sistema. hindi lang po dito sa MRT-3, kundi sa lahat ng sistema ng riles,” he said.

Updates on CHED K+12 Faculty Scholarship Allowances

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Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairperson Patricia B. Licuanan explained that only 4,096 faculty scholars under its local scholarships are experiencing delays in the release of living allowances, clarifying earlier reports that 9,500 scholars have been affected.

As of today, the Commission has fully released allowances for 2,051 scholars who have submitted complete documentary requirements, an ongoing effort since November 2017 following the resumption of the processing of allowances after the COA Notices of Suspension were issued.

Understanding the delays the Program has encountered, the Commission has also approved the partial release of living allowances for 1,011 scholars with valid contracts and enrolment forms, despite pending requirements. The balance will be released to these scholars upon submission of remaining documents to the CHED Regional Offices. Meanwhile, 933 scholars will receive no allowances due to non-submission of enrollment forms.

“We request our scholars with pending documentary submissions to please submit the remaining requirements to the CHED Regional Offices at the soonest possible time so that we can facilitate the release of allowances to our remaining grantees,” said the CHED Chairperson.

“We in CHED deeply regret the impact the delays has caused our scholars,” said Licuanan. “But it is important to understand the factors that contributed to these delays: among them, discrepancies and deficiencies in documents, the volume of documentation that required thorough vetting following initial audit, and the need to abide with government accounting and auditing rules, which we, as an agency, also had to comply with,” she continued.

“The Commission has not stopped in its review and improvement of current systems since the program began in 2016. In fact, refinements have been integrated into the system regularly following each semester, to reduce potential errors and causes of delays,” said Licuanan.

The K to 12 Transition Program began in 2016 to prevent the massive displacement of higher education faculty and staff, as a result of lesser workloads in colleges and universities due to the implementation of Senior High School (SHS), while upgrading the quality of higher education.

“Yes, there have been challenges, but we hope the public also sees what the Program has achieved as a whole: apart from the scholarships, CHED is also supporting 307 faculty members undergoing industry immersion, trained 3,792 college faculty for the new and enhanced curriculum, trained 6,494 teachers for Senior High School, developed 17 cutting-edge graduate programs with the top universities in the United Kingdom, awarded 201 institutional grants for colleges and universities, and 163 grants for research and extension, among others.”

Licuanan also denounced malicious allegations of corruption and mismanagement of funds allotted for the living allowances and other grants under the program. According to the Chairperson, “It has been my personal commitment to stamp out corruption in CHED since day one, despite the odds. We have implemented the Program with the highest level of ethical stewardship. Every peso is accounted for.”

Rise in Fraud Transactions at Banco de Oro (BDO) Alarming

Wazzup Pilipinas!

There has been a rise in fraud transactions involving Banco De Oro (BDO) depositors, specifically on ATM withdrawals and online transactions.

Depositors are bewildered upon discovering the loss of their money even to a point of almost zero balance.

“I do hope BDO will FIND WAYS to fix this... These banks who handle our hard-earned money should FIND WAYS and see to it that our money is secured.”

They finally admitted that there was a problem. I hope their handling of customers complaints improve. I experienced disconcern from branch personnel, and even told that it (unauthorized transaction) was partly my fault. They also denied any system glitches.

I cannot help thinking that in this time and in this world, no one is safe, and no place is safe. I save money so that during emergencies, I would have something to use. But it is frustrating and depressing that it would get loss even if you keep it in a trusted bank.

BDO will probably not make any commitment to return all the missing deposits because they know it would be a big loss for their bank once they started to pay off the aggrieved parties. ny single amount spent would affect their bottom line figure (net income)? That is how serious BDO is in terms of income loss due to fraudulent means?

Below is BDO's official statement as posted on their Facebook page:

To our valued clients,

In the recent months, there has been an increased number of clients that have experienced suspicious bank account transactions involving withdrawals and purchases done without their knowledge.

In the 4th quarter of 2017, we have seen an extraordinary rise in fraud attacks towards the entire industry with an increase in the number of claims for unauthorized transactions taking place in other countries.

We are currently running a thorough investigation process that involves tracing individual transactions, checking any irregularities and identifying signals of fraud from millions of valid transactions everyday. This challenging task is done to ensure that all cases are addressed accordingly, and that a resolution is served for all valid cases.

We also wish to remind you to keep your account information private, as well as to be mindful of people requesting for your personal account details through phone, SMS, email, or websites. Unscrupulous individuals and groups are constantly preying on unsuspecting clients to collect their bank information through skimming, phishing, social engineering, and other devious ways.

To help our affected clients, we encourage you to formally file a report via email (callcenter@bdo.com.ph), its international toll free number (IAC +800-8-631-8000), or its domestic hotline (631-8000).

Your account’s safety and security are our top priority.

The Lenovo Mirage Camera with Daydream - Allows Everyone to Share Their Own Virtual Reality

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Lenovo announced, in partnership with Google, the Lenovo Mirage Camera with Daydream, a powerful new tool that lets you capture and relive memories like you’re really in the moment. The Lenovo Mirage Camera is a VR camera that simplifies creating virtual reality content with easy video or image capture and wireless upload to your personal Google Photos and YouTube account. VR180 eliminates the need for specialized virtual reality videography skills and professional camera gear to shoot immersive 3D VR videos and photos. Everyday users and digital storytellers can now create, produce and share immersive content without expending extra effort or equipment—just point, shoot, relive and share.

Launching the Lenovo Mirage Solo and Lenovo Mirage Camera with Daydream together reaffirms our commitment to designing products that are different for the sake of being better. Together, the Lenovo Mirage Camera and Lenovo Mirage Solo with Daydream complement each other for users interested in immersive VR but who want affordable prices, high-quality content and simple set-up. A compact point-and-shoot camera, the Lenovo Mirage Camera, slips right into your pocket and supports YouTube’s new VR180 video format. Its dual 13MP fisheye cameras achieve depth in image and video by capturing the same images at slightly different angles to form a 3D effect, in which near objects look near, while far objects appear far. The two lenses also offer a 180 x 180-degree field of view to let you see more.

Finally, we built the Lenovo Mirage Camera at a price for mainstream consumers; democratizing VR by proving you don’t need expensive equipment or computers to make VR. Experience Once-in-a-Lifetime—on Demand“You had to be there.”

Until now, reliving experiences through 2D videos and photos just isn’t the same as the real thing. But what if you could perfectly capture the feeling of “being there”? The Lenovo Mirage Camera lets you share your once-in-a-lifetime moments with friends, so they can see what you saw in exactly the same lifelike clarity and feel what you experienced first-hand.


Relive those precious moments with family as if you were there again, replaying your daughter’s game-winning goal or recapturing that feeling when your dad unwrapped the perfect birthday gift. The excitement of a live concert or game, the majesty of the Rocky Mountains or the razzle-dazzle of a street performance—all can be captured, relived and shared. 

Just Point and Shoot

Just point and shoot. We designed the Lenovo Mirage Camera for simplicity with just three buttons—power, shutter and function. Toggle between three modes: photo, video and live broadcasting.

You can even pair with your smartphone via Wi-Fi Direct. Download the VR180 app by Google to make your phone’s screen act as a viewfinder, letting you preview all your photos and videos. About the size of a smartphone and weighing just 139 grams, the Lenovo Mirage Camera fits into small pockets so it travels where you do.VR180 Made SimpleVR180 videos act exactly like standard 2D videos in YouTube, Google Photos and companion apps—meaning you can watch the same ultra-high-resolution 4K video on your phone, tablet or PC—all without needing a headset. But owning a VR headset such as a Google Cardboard or the Lenovo Mirage Solo with Daydream adds the immersion element to your viewing experience and encourages you to watch again and again.

And like 2D videos, VR180 videos can also be edited with familiar and popular video editing software. You can work with Adobe Premiere Pro to edit VR180 videos in post-production without having to learn and adopt different formats or using specialized hardware to stitch footage.

Instantaneous SharingYou can share instantly. We integrated the Lenovo Mirage Camera tightly with Google Photos and YouTube. While you can store your content on the camera’s 16GB1 on-board eMMC (or use an optional microSD card for up to 128GB of additional storage), all content can also be uploaded to Google Photos. You can also upload live broadcasts and videos to your YouTube VR account, thanks to the camera’s Wi-Fi - no smartphone required.

The device houses the Qualcomm Connected Camera Platform with a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 626 SoC which features integrated high-quality dual cameras and powerful processing with built-in Wi-Fi and even an integrated X9 LTE cellular modem in the LTE version, 2GB of RAM, USB Type-C charging and a slot for a removable battery. The camera offers up to two hours of continuous usage for high-resolution video recording.2

And in addition to the Lenovo Mirage Camera, we’re also launching two more devices today in collaboration with Google and Qualcomm to bring immersive, life-like experiences to our customers:

Lenovo Mirage Solo with Daydream is the world’s first standalone Daydream VR headset, matching simplicity with immersion to bring you the next generation of virtual reality; Lenovo Smart Display features the Google Assistant built into a vibrant full HD touchscreen display.3

The Mirage Camera (Wi-Fi version) starts at $299.99 and is expected to be available beginning in the second quarter this year.4

All products are available on www.lenovo.com.4

Discover more at www.lenovo.com/lenovolaunch and www.lenovo.com/ces.

Actual available capacity of user storage is less because the operating system, and other software which utilize part of this capacity. 

Actual results will vary, and depend on numerous factors including product configuration and usage, operating conditions, wireless functionality and other factors. The maximum capacity of the battery will naturally decrease with time and usage.

3 FHD touchscreen display is available on the Lenovo Smart Display 10-inch model.

4 Lenovo Mirage Camera LTE version is available in select markets. Prices do not include tax, shipping or options and are subject to change without notice; additional terms and conditions apply. Reseller prices may vary. On-shelf dates may vary by geography and products may only be available in selected markets. All offers subject to availability. Lenovo reserves the right to alter product offerings, features and specifications at any time without notice.

LENOVO and LENOVO MIRAGE are trademarks of Lenovo. CES is a trademark of the Consumer Technology Association. Qualcomm and Snapdragon are trademarks of Qualcomm Incorporated, registered in the United States and other countries. Qualcomm Snapdragon and Qualcomm Connected Camera Platform are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or is subsidiaries. GOOGLE, DAYDREAM, GOOGLE CARDBOARD, GOOGLE ASSISTANT, GOOGLE PHOTOS and YOUTUBE are trademarks of Google, Inc. ADOBE and ADOBE PREMIERE are trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2018, Lenovo Group Limited.

Seeing is Believing on the New Lenovo Smart Display – with the Google Assistant Built In

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Lenovo and Google are teaming up again in a big way. This CES 2018, we’re introducing an intuitive and personalized way to make your home smarter and make life easier. Meet the new Lenovo Smart Display with the Google Assistant built into a vibrant full HD touchscreen display and wrapped in a minimalist, modern design.1 It’s the ideal home companion for busy families who need easy-to-use, time-saving technology.

With the Lenovo Smart Display, the Google Assistant can help you kickstart your morning and get the latest weather, traffic and meeting schedules or you can relax in the evening by video calling friends with Google Duo, watching YouTube videos, enjoying your favorite tunes or managing your connected devices – all with just your voice and a quick glance at the display.


Start, and end, your day with “Hey Google”

Imagine Mom waking up to a picture of her jampacked day full of meetings and errands with just a quick glance at her calendar on the large 8-inch or 10-inch screen of the Lenovo Smart Display. The Google Assistant can also read out her schedule and tell her the weather as she multi-tasks to get everyone out the door. Ask the Google Assistant for traffic updates it will bring up Google Maps™ to show Mom the fastest morning commute. It also reminds her on her way out that it’s her colleague’s birthday, so she simply asks the Google Assistant on her Lenovo Smart Display to show the closest open bakery on Google Maps to pick up a birthday cake. To save Mom even more time, the Google Assistant on Lenovo Smart Display will be able to set up routines designed to help Mom when getting out the door in the morning, or returning home in the evening.

Powered by the newly announced Qualcomm Home Hub Platform based on the Qualcomm SDA 624 SoC which features integrated CPU, GPU and DSP as well as robust Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, the Lenovo Smart Display can also give you a hand at home after a long day’s work. Picture Dad in the kitchen making a new dish for a dinner party. Hands coated in marinade and dinner guests arriving soon, he asks the Google Assistant on his Lenovo Smart Display to show a YouTube video tutorial of the recipe. Just like that, a world-famous celebrity chef appears – in Full HD video along with a 10-watt full-range speaker – to help guide Dad through the cooking step by step.1 With the Google Assistant, the Lenovo Smart Display is a singular command hub for your connected smart home devices, including those through Nest and other manufacturers from lighting to heating and more - all with just your voice or touch.



After dinner, Grandma checks in on video call from her trip abroad and Dad picks up her call hands-free, with just his voice. Available in both 8-inch and 10-inch models, the Lenovo Smart Display rotates from portrait to landscape mode so the whole family can fit into the frame to talk with Grandma using Google Duo, available on Android and iOS phones.2


Fits into your modern home décor

The Lenovo Smart Display’s clean, minimalist design not only blends into your home but also adds a modern touch to it. Available in a soft Grey or natural Bamboo color, it matches most wooden, glass or granite tabletops.3 It’s flexible too - the display can be positioned horizontally or vertically to fit nearly any space. When not in use, the display doubles as a digital picture frame - showcasing an ambient screen of beautiful pictures from a personally selected album in Google Photos™, or another background image of your choosing.

The 10-inch Lenovo Smart Display starts at $249.99 and the 8-inch model starts at $199.99, both expected to be available early this summer.

All products are available on www.lenovo.com. 4

Discover more at www.lenovo.com/lenovolaunch and www.lenovo.com/ces.

1 FHD touchscreen display is available on the Lenovo Smart Display 10-inch model.
2 Google Duo is pre-installed on all new Android devices and is also available on iOS.
3 The 10-inch Lenovo Smart Display comes in Bamboo color, and the 8-inch model comes in Grey.
4 Prices do not include tax, shipping or options and are subject to change without notice; additional terms and conditions apply. Reseller prices may vary. On-shelf dates may vary by geography and products may only be available in selected markets. All offers subject to availability. Lenovo reserves the right to alter product offerings, features and specifications at any time without notice.

LENOVO is a trademark of Lenovo. CES is a trademark of the Consumer Technology Association. QUALCOMM is a trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated, registered in the United States and other countries. Qualcomm Home Hub Platform and Qualcomm SDA are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. GOOGLE, GOOGLE MAPS, GOOGLE ASSISTANT, GOOGLE DUO, GOOGLE PHOTOS, ANDROID and YOUTUBE are trademarks of Google LLC. IOS is a trademark of Cisco. NEST is a trademark of Nest Labs, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2018, Lenovo Group Limited.

DOE Tightens Watch on Gas Stations, Depots; Deploys Inspectors

Wazzup Pilipinas!

A team of inspectors from the Department of Energy's Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB) has been deployed to randomly inspect the inventory of gasoline stations and depots for proper oil excise tax implementation.

The inspectors will verify if the excise tax under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act is actually applied on inventories beyond those existing as of December 31, 2017.

Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi reiterated his warning against any violation of the TRAIN law.

"Violators may be administratively subjected to the cancellation of their Certificates of Compliance (COC)," said Cusi.

Criminal cases such as estafa and profiteering may be filed in court for violations of the Oil Deregulation Law and the Revised Penal Code, Cusi said.

"The DOE will also endorse these violators to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) for a special audit," he added.

Cusi said the inspection procedure starts with inspectors introducing themselves to gasoline station or depots and informing their purpose, which is to inspect the inventory.

Inspectors will use the Inspection Report Form (IRF), which indicates punitive measures in case of violation.

Inspectors will get the data on the inventory as of Dec. 31, 2017 and subsequent withdrawals from those inventories to determine if the new excise tax under TRAIN is applied only to new stocks.

Upon accomplishment of the IRF, it should be signed by the OIMB Inspector and conformed by the authorized representative of the retail station or depot.

Rene Catalan Eyes First 2018 Win for the Philippines in ONE Championship

Wazzup Pilipinas!

With 2018 bringing in a whole new set of good opportunities for local talents in the Philippines, homegrown Filipino combatant Rene “The Challenger” Catalan is looking to kick off the Philippine mixed martial arts scene’s promising new year with a sweet win as he dons the country’s colors on the undercard of ONE: KINGS OF COURAGE.

Catalan squares off with China’s Peng Xue Wen in a three-round strawweight affair at ONE: KINGS OF COURAGE, which takes place at the Jakarta Convention Center in Indonesia on 20 January.

A highly-decorated Wushu practitioner, Catalan seeks to continue his winning ways inside the ONE Championship cage after picking up two noteworthy victories in 2017.

Catalan started his 2017 on a high note by submitting Indonesian prospect Adrian Matheis via a second-round armbar in January before routing China’s Bu Huo You Ga by way of unanimous decision seven months later.

As the lone Filipino representative at ONE Championship’s first live event of 2018, Catalan seeks to tally the country’s first win in Asia’s premier martial arts organization this year.

“I am exerting a tremendous amount of effort in training. I want to keep on winning,” he said. “I am inspired to win my match this coming January 20 because I am representing the Philippines. It is always an honor to fight for my country. My goal in this bout is to win and bring pride to my nation.”

For Catalan, his first trip to the ONE Championship cage this 2018 is another step in his evolution as a martial artist, hoping to keep up his winning streak and inch him closer to a potential shot at the ONE Strawweight World Championship.

“My goal is to compete for the ONE Strawweight World Championship. I know before I get to that stage, I still have a lot of work ahead of me,” he stated.

Catalan had a rough beginning to his tenure in ONE Championship, but over the past year and a half, he has completely turned his career around.

Despite a tough promotional debut under the ONE Championship banner, which saw him lose to now-reigning ONE Strawweight World Champion Alex “Little Rock” Silva, Catalan has rallied back.

Catalan has strung together three consecutive victories since September 2016 and will look to break into the upper echelon of the division when he meets Peng at ONE: KINGS OF COURAGE.

“I have a certain game plan, but I am prepared to defend against his wrestling,” he shared.

Peng is a 2014 Chinese National Youth Grecco Champion who made his promotional debut at ONE: LEGENDS OF THE WORLD in Manila, Philippines last November.

The Chinese standout leaned on his impeccable grappling to overwhelm Cambodia’s Phat Soda before knocking him out with an awe-inspiring suplex halfway through the opening stanza.

Catalan is well aware of his opponent’s grappling expertise and is diligently training to refute his bread-and-butter as well as his explosive skillset.

“I am preparing a solid defense against him, but of course I am mixing in some offense as well. I am not sure if he will expect that I will add a twist to my game, but 80 percent of my preparation is in strength and conditioning,” he explained.

“For this match, I think the strategy will flow once I am in the cage. I will just do my best to get the win, but also provide an exciting bout for the audience to enjoy,” Catalan added.

Catalan expects that if he secures a decisive win over Peng at ONE: KINGS OF COURAGE, it will grant him a rematch with Silva for the ONE Strawweight World Championship belt.

“Every fighter dreams to become a world champion. I really hope that ONE Championship will give me an opportunity to vie for the title in the future. This bout might be the door to a world title contest. Let us all hope for the best,” he ended.

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One: Global Superheroes Set for 26 January in Manila

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The largest global sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship (ONE), has just announced its return to the Mall of Asia Arena on Friday, 26 January. ONE: GLOBAL SUPERHEROES is set to showcase the absolute best in local and international martial arts talent. In the main event, Team Lakay’s Geje “Gravity” Eustaquio will take on Kairat Akhmetov for the interim ONE Flyweight World Championship.

Ticket information for ONE: GLOBAL SUPERHEROES is available at www.onefc.com.

Chatri Sityodtong, Chairman and CEO of ONE Championship, stated: “This is the first in four blockbuster events in Manila in 2018, and ONE Championship is looking to kick things off with a spectacular show. Fans of martial arts in the Philippines are among the most passionate in the world, and it is our honor to present the best in local and global martial arts talent. The Mall of Asia Arena will be pulsating with excitement as hometown hero Geje Eustaquio takes on Kairat Akhmetov in a highly-anticipated main event rematch. This time, it’s for the interim ONE Flyweight World Championship.”

Top flyweight contender and former world title challenger Geje “Gravity” Eustaquio of Baguio City, Philippines, is one of the most skilled martial artists in Asia, and a highly-decorated wushu practitioner. His solid striking and grappling skill set has led to huge victories over the course of a seven-year professional career. Training in the high altitudes of the Philippines’ Summer capital, Eustaquio hones his craft alongside world-class teammates at the fabled Team Lakay. Known for his incredible ability to keep calm in the face of adversity, Eustaquio is set to headline ONE: GLOBAL SUPERHEROES opposite former ONE Flyweight World Champion Kairat Akhmetov.

Former ONE Flyweight World Champion Kairat Akhmetov is a veteran martial artist from Almaty, Kazakhstan. The 30-year-old boasts a solid 24-1 professional record amassed during a stellar martial arts career which has seen him dominate his opponents with tenacious wrestling and powerful striking. In his most recent appearance inside the ONE Championship cage, Akhmetov defeated Geje Eustaquio via closely-contested three-round split decision. Now he faces Eustaquio in a rematch, this time for the interim ONE Flyweight World Championship.

22-year-old Joshua Pacio of Baguio City is one of the fastest rising martial arts stars from the Philippines. He is one of the promotion’s most talented strawweights and a proud member of the famed Team Lakay. Pacio is a wushu practitioner with a solid grappling repertoire. All but one of his 10 career victories have come by spectacular finish, which includes five wins by submission and four by devastating knockout. In his most recent bout, Pacio knocked out veteran Roy Doliguez with a second-round spinning back fist. A former ONE Strawweight World Championship Title Challenger, Pacio is looking to bring himself back to title contention with another victory. A tough task is ahead of Pacio, however, as he is slated to lock horns with Pongsiri Mitsatit.

21-year-old Pongsiri “The Smiling Assassin” Mitsatit is an undefeated martial artist from Chiang Mai, Thailand, and was previously a North Thailand Muay Thai champion with a 72-17 record, which included 49 KOs. Since making his professional debut in the cage, the strawweight has amassed an unblemished record of 9-0 with seven knockout triumphs and one submission victory, and made an immediate impact in ONE Championship with first-round finishes over Ye Thway Ne and Rabin Catalan. In his next outing, Mitsatit will share the ONE Championship cage with Joshua Pacio of the Philippines in a three-round strawweight contest.

Featherweight standout Eric “The Natural” Kelly of Baguio City is widely considered one of the best homegrown martial arts athletes to come out of the Philippines. The wushu practitioner combines solid striking techniques with high-level grappling skills, which has resulted in nine impressive submissions and one knockout out of 12 total victories. Kelly’s most impressive showing to date came in a submission win over Rob Lisita in 2014, a performance which earned him the US$50,000 ONE Warrior Bonus. In his next bout, Kelly will face Rafael Nunes.

20-year-old Rafael Nunes is a martial artist from Sao Paulo, Brazil with a 10-1 record. He is the former Premier FC Lightweight Champion and has steamrolled through the competition in his home country with a knack for winning by exciting finish. All but one of Nunes’ 10 wins have ended within the distance. A Brazilian jiu-jitsu brown belt, Nunes is equally comfortable finishing his opponents by submission or by strikes. He looks to showcase his multifaceted skill set in his next bout, and will face a tough challenge when he takes on veteran Eric Kelly.

27-year-old Bulgarian martial artist Sotir Kichukov is a ONE Championship flyweight contender and former Max Bantamweight Champion. Representing Saigon Sports Club, Kichukov made his promotional debut in December of 2016 at ONE: AGE OF DOMINATION against Mark Striegl. Kichukov, who lives and trains out of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is set to return to the ONE Championship cage to take on China’s Ma Hao Bin.

24-year-old Chinese national freestyle wrestling champion “The Southern Eagle” Ma Hao Bin is unbeaten inside the ONE Championship cage. Making his professional debut in 2016, Ma took home the ONE: DYNASTY OF CHAMPIONS (CHANGSHA) Flyweight Tournament Championship, defeating Wu Ting Shen and Bu Huo You Ga in a single evening of action. Since then, Ma has strung together an impressive 7-1 professional record which includes four wins by submission and one by knockout. In his last bout, Ma needed just one round to force Eugene Toquero to tap from an armbar. He takes on Sotir Kichukov next.

25-year-old Yago Bryan of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is a former Shooto South American Strawweight Champion who took on former ONE Strawweight World Champion Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke in his promotional debut. A Muay Thai practitioner and wrestler, Bryan features both striking and grappling skills in his arsenal. Making his way back to the ONE Championship cage, Bryan is set to take on Hayato Suzuki.

31-year-old Hayato Suzuki of Saitama, Japan, is a veteran martial artist with an impressive professional record of 17-1 with two draws. Spending the majority of his career competing in his native Japan, Suzuki is known as a highly-skilled competitor with the ability to finish his foes with heavy knockout power and technical grappling skills. Out of 17 wins, Suzuki has finished 12 of his opponents, including seven by submission and five by knockout. He will face Yago Bryan in his next contest.

27-year-old Brazilian jiu-jitsu world champion Bruno "Pucci Bull" Pucci is a No-Gi world champion from Brazil who is based out of Singapore. Training at Evolve, Pucci is one of ONE Championship’s most skilled featherweights. With an inherent ability to source high-level submission maneuvers from any position in the cage, Pucci is looking for his second straight victory. Famous for finishing all his bouts via rear naked choke, Pucci will take on Emilio Urrutia in his next contest.

Emilio “The Honey Badger” Urrutia is an American martial arts talent from Miami, Florida. The 31-year old made his professional debut in 2013, and has since produced a solid 10-4 record. He the former SFC Bantamweight Champion. A skilled grappler, four of Urrutia’s 10 total victories have come by submission. In his last bout, Urrutia scored a unanimous decision victory over the highly-regarded Edward Kelly. Training out of the renowned Tiger Muay Thai gym in Thailand, Urrutia will now take on Bruno Pucci.

Edward “The Ferocious” Kelly is a 33-year old Filipino martial arts talent and one of the brightest featherweight prospects to emerge from the Philippines. With a complete striking and grappling skill set, Kelly brings Team Lakay’s world-renowned wushu to centerstage as he looks to showcase his expertise inside the ONE Championship cage. Kelly has won three of his last four bouts, all by spectacular finish. He will take on Meas Meul.

27-year-old Meas Meul of Phnom Penh, Cambodia is an undefeated martial artist with a professional record of 6-0. Meul made his ONE Championship debut in 2014, submitting countryman Chan Heng via rear-naked choke. A former KW 2 Champion, Meul is set to put his highly-regarded khun khmer offensive skills on full display when he takes on Edward Kelly.

Rajinder Singh “Knockout” Meena of India is a martial artist competing in the ONE Championship lightweight division. A former SFL Lightweight Champion, all eight of Meena’s victories have come by exciting finish. With a robust grappling skill set, Meena owns five impressive wins by submission and three by knockout. In his next bout, Meena is set to take on rising Chinese star Zhang Ze Hao.

“The Ghost” Zhang Ze Hao of Shanghai is a martial artist from China and one of the top Chinese lightweight prospects He made his promotional debut at ONE CHAMPIONSHIP: SHANGHAI in early September of 2017, finishing compatriot Li Cheng Chao via technical knockout in the third round. Zhang, a proponent at the AMA Shanghai Gym, is a sanda and Brazilian jiu-jitsu and sanda practitioner. He is set to do battle against Rajinder Singh Meena in a three-round lightweight contest.

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