DOE, Palawan Ink MOU on Local RE Planning

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The Department of Energy (DOE) under Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Provincial Government of Palawan (PGP) on 28 November for the Development for Renewable Energy Applications Mainstreaming and Market Sustainability (DREAMS) project.

Undersecretary Felix William B. Fuentebella, who represented the DOE, emphasized the importance of ensuring energy efficiency, safety, security and ‘diskarte’, as enshrined in the Department’s E-Power Mo campaign.

With the vision of providing stable and strong energy supply in Palawan, the DOE commended the PGP for positively responding to the call of the DREAMS Project.

The MOU signing was in support of the DOE's project to boost localized planning in the development and usage of renewable energy (RE), following the successful series of consultations with the provincial governments of Palawan (4 September) and Iloilo (26 September).

The DREAMS project aims to provide efficient and reliable energy services, develop indigenous and clean sources of energy, and contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through the capacity building of the stakeholders and the consumers.

In photo (from left) are DREAMS Project Assistant National Project Director and Chief of the National Renewable Energy Board Gaspar Escobar; DREAMS Project National Project Director and OIC - Director of the DOE - Renewable Energy Management Bureau Mylene Capongcol; DOE Undersecretary Felix William B. Fuentebella; Palawan Governor Jose Chavez Alvarez; UNDP Country Director Titon Mitra; and UNDP Program Manager Floradema Eleazar.

Gravity Interactive, Ltd. Announces Closed Beta Test Event for “Ragnarok Online 2 PH” for PC

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November 27, 2018- GRAVITY INTERACTIVE, an online and mobile games publisher based in North America, revealed today the launch of a Closed Beta Test event for an upcoming release ofRagnarok Online 2 PH in the Philippines and additional regions within South East Asia.

Details regarding the ongoing Closed Beta Test can be found at http://playragnarok2ph.com/

  

Ragnarok Online 2 transports players back to the familiar yet dangerous world of Rune-Midgard.  Players can play as familiar classic RO classes such as Swordsman, Wizard, Thief, Priest and more. Choose between Humans or the cute but cursed Noels and begin exploring the depths of Rune-Midgard! Players can brave the journey on their own or choose to team up with allies or a guild to take on the challenges together!

Ragnarok Online 2 features areas made famous by its predecessor including Prontera and Morroc as well as all new maps and dungeons! Ragnarok Online 2 PH also includes unique features not previously available in Ragnarok Online 2 such as a revamped Pet System and updated MVP World Bosses! Additionally, characters have access to even further customization with the all new Kafra Surgeon and Costume Rune Exchange along with new costumes and accessories!

Players who participate in the Closed Beta Test will be credited with 5000 Kafra Points as well as other rewards that can be used during the Closed Beta Test!

An FAQ with further information is available at:

https://www.facebook.com/PlayRagnarok2PH/photos/a.322438961246726/1192248354265778/?type=3&theater

Ragnarok Online 2 PH Closed Beta Test will take place from November 26^th to December 3^rd for the Philippines and South East Asia regions. 

BDO Unibank is the Strongest Bank in the Philippines for 2018

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BDO Unibank Inc. is the Philippines’ strongest bank for 2018, according to The Asian Banker Strongest Banks By Balance Sheet list.

The Asian Banker Strongest Banks By Balance Sheet is an annual assessment of the financial and business performance of the banking industry in the Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa region. The banks are rated on a scale of 0-5 in six areas, namely: the ability to scale, balance sheet growth, risk profile, profitability, asset quality, and liquidity.

"The top 20 strongest banks in the Asia Pacific region included 10 Hong Kong banks, four Chinese banks, two Singapore banks, and one each from Australia, Brunei, Japan, Malaysia, and New Zealand. Banks in Hong Kong, Singapore and Australia achieved the highest weighted average strength score, at 4.10, 3.51 and 3.34 out of 5, respectively, except for Brunei, which has only one bank on the list," The Asian Banker said in a statement.

This recognition follows BDO's Mortgage Product of the Year Award at the recently held The Asian Banker Philippines Country Awards 2018. The award recognized the Bank's extensive network as the main driver of its consumer loans business.

BDO has a network of more than 1,000 branches nationwide, the widest in the country. Through this network, the Bank is able to tap opportunities in high-growth areas as well as promote financial inclusion.

Team Lakay Honored in Baguio City's Champion Parade

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Team Lakay were honored with a Champions Parade last Sunday, 2 December. Members of the world champion martial arts stable took to the streets of Baguio City in a motorcade to celebrate their achievements in 2018.

In attendance were ONE Championship superstars including ONE Lightweight World Champion Eduard “Landslide” Folayang, ONE Bantamweight World Champion Kevin “The Silencer” Belingon, ONE Flyweight World Champion Geje “Gravity” Eustaquio, and ONE Strawweight World Champion Joshua “The Passion” Pacio.

Accompanying the ONE World Champions were teammates Honorio “The Rock” Banario, Edward “The Ferocious” Kelly, Stephen “The Sniper” Loman, as well as Team Lakay head coach Mark Sangiao, among others.

Official photos of the Champions Parade can be found at this link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1cdf4mRkvrIxL5Ma74Zg_fVaKM3pXsHlK?usp=sharing

Eduard Folayang, ONE Lightweight World Champion, stated:

“We are just normal citizens of Baguio City with big dreams. We worked hard to achieve our goals and now we’re here. We believe the Cordilleran can compete with anyone in the world and we have what it takes to be the best in our chosen field. Hard work and dedication is all it takes to achieve success. The great thing about martial arts is that it’s not just about fighting, it’s about living. Martial arts is a way of life. It’s our way of life. It’s pushing through adversity, taking on any challenge and using the human spirit to achieve victory.”

Kevin Belingon, ONE Bantamweight World Champion, stated:

“I just want to thank everyone for the support. It means a lot to the team, and it means a lot to me. Thank you to the city of Baguio for organizing this motorcade for us. Thank you for the continued support for all martial artists and athletes here in Baguio and the Cordilleras. It is an honor to hold this belt in front of you all. It is an honor to be your champion.”

Geje Eustaquio, ONE Flyweight World Champion, stated:

“We always say at Team Lakay that champions are not born, they are made. But we were made because of the people of Baguio City. We never claim victory as our own. This has always been the fruit of teamwork -- the people behind the scenes: our family, our fans and supporters, sponsors and Filipinos all over the world. We feed off your positive energy and it serves as inspiration for us. We would never be able to achieve all that we have without your support. There are more victories to come, and together, we can reach all of our goals.”

Joshua Pacio, ONE Strawweight World Champion, stated:

“Thank you everyone for all the support and prayers. It’s a happy time in Baguio City, where we can celebrate all our victories as one. This isn’t just our triumphs, but also the triumph of the entire Cordilleras. We pour in all the hard work, to improve and to keep getting better. We train during holidays, weekends, and sacrifice so much to bring glory to our country and to our city. But we could never have any success without your love and support. This year, we proved that the Philippines is world-class in martial arts. Next year, we plan to do the same again.”

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.

Iloilo LGU, Smart, InnoPub Unveil Interactive Tourism Markers

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Going digital to boost provincial tourism

The government of Iloilo, in partnership with Smart Communications and InnoPub Media, has presented the interactive tourism markers that will be installed at town halls and selected tourist destinations all over the province.

These markers are equipped with quick response (QR) codes and near field communication (NFC) chips. When scanned through a mobile app, the QR and NFC devices will activate a browser window that will provide detailed information about the site on the user’s smartphone.

“These QR codes can help maximize tourist visits in the areas where these are deployed. We thank the Iloilo Provinicial Tourism Office, our LGU tourism partners, Smart and InnoPub for this initiative,” said Department of Tourism–Western Visayas’ Rene Cortum during the launch.

“By making information on travel and culture accessible to more people—that is, through their phones—the digital tourism program can help further enhance tourism here,” said Smart Public Affairs Visayas-Mindanao head Maria Jane Paredes.

Through the markers, tourists can discover information on Iloilo’s LGUs, such as local history and best destinations in the area. For instance, travelers to Carles may learn more about Islas de Gigantes, with its aquamarine waters, lush greens and stretches of white sand. Students and design enthusiasts, for their part, may read about the Rendicion de Tetuan or the 1859 Spanish victory over Moroccan forces, which is depicted in bas relief at the San Joaquin Church, among other cultural and historical trivia.

QR and NFC readers are either pre-installed on most smartphones or available as free apps. This makes it easier for most mobile users to access information through the interactive tourism markers, according to InnoPub cofounder Max Limpag.

The markers are part of the Iloilo Digital Tourism Program, which was unveiled during the 117th Semana sang Iloilo earlier this year. The program includes the Iloilo Guide app, a mobile guide that features information useful to visitors and students, such as historical background, local folklore and other interesting cultural trivia. It also lists things to do and places to see.

The Iloilo Guide app, as well as the other digital tourism guides developed by InnoPub and Smart, may be downloaded for free on both Android and iOS devices.

In partnership with government units, the digital tourism program of Smart and InnoPub is a nationwide initiative that harnesses technology to deliver tourism, cultural and historical information to mobile users.

The program was launched in 2012 and has since been implemented in Antique, Baguio City, Cebu, Davao and Metro Manila, among other areas.

Tigbauan officials receive the municipality’s tourism QR code from representatives of the Iloilo tourism office, Smart and InnoPub. Nineteen other LGUs received their own tourism QR codes, including Miagao, Oton, Leon, Leganes, Badiangan, Cabatuan, Passi City, Dingle, Carles, Concepcion, San Joaquin, Alimodian, Ajuy, Igbaras, Janiuay, Banate, Santa Barbara, Guimbal and Tubungan.

NECM Should Go Beyond Energy Conservation, Let There be Light for All – Cusi

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ENERGY FOR ALL: DOE Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi reminds members of the energy family that a mindset of energy conservation should be complemented by a strong recognition that power should be made available not only to some, but to all Filipinos.  

The Energy Chief led the opening of the National Energy Consciousness Month 2018 and 46th anniversary of the Department held this morning (3 December) at the DOE Multi-Purpose Building.

TAGUIG CITY – Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi today led the opening of National Energy Consciousness Month (NECM) 2018 and the DOE’s 46th anniversary at the agency’s headquarters in Bonifacio Global City.

In his opening address, Sec. Cusi underscored the necessity of adopting a two-pronged approach of energy conservation and total electrification not only in celebration of NECM, but also as the overarching principle in realizing the country’s energy agenda.

“Energy remains to be a cornerstone of Philippine economic development. It is also very important in our daily lives. Thus, it is crucial that energy services are delivered to each and every Filipino,” he stressed.

The Energy Chief added, “We continue to strongly espouse the judicious use of energy for those of us who already have access to power. However, we should not forget that progress should be inclusive – let no one be left in darkness, most especially those at the margins of society. Let there be light for all.”

The theme for NECM 2018 is "Fostering Innovation, Resiliency and Sustainability". This is in line with the DOE’s goal to attain energy security, sustainability and self-sufficiency at the earliest.

Among the strides made by the Department in this regard include the enactment of an Energy Resiliency Policy, the implementation of Renewable Portfolio Standards, the establishment of a Green Energy Option Program, the streamlining of executive processes, as well as measures that promote competition and promote a level-playing field for all industry stakeholders.

Moreover, the DOE is urgently pushing for the total electrification of unserved and underserved areas and the exploration and development of the country’s indigenous energy resources.

The DOE has previously called on the National Electrification Administration to undertake all necessary measures towards the electrification of said areas, which include ensuring the complete submission of the Master Plans of electric cooperatives (ECs); fast tracking the implementation of the Total Electrification Program by directing ECs to energize all households within the entirety of their respective franchise areas without exemption; directing ECs to evaluate the feasibility of hybridization as a means to lower electricity prices and ensure uninterrupted power supply; and studying other methods of extending financial assistance to ECs.

On the other hand, the DOE has recently launched the Philippine Conventional Energy Contracting Program for petroleum on 22 November to reignite petroleum exploration and development activities in the country.

“I call on all the members of the energy family to heed the challenge of broadening our perspectives. We do not stop at knowing that we have the energy ability. We need to make sure that others have it as well,” Sec. Cusi concluded.

Proclamation No. 1427 signed by then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on 11 December 2007 provides for the celebration of NECM to coincide with the DOE’s anniversary.

Gary V Reaches Out to Share Love to his Kababayans in Albay

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Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano visited his hometown in Camalig, Albay last November 29 to give back to his kababayans through a series of medical, dental, optical missions, and wheelchair distribution. The said program was made possible through the partnership between CBN Asia’s humanitarian arm, Operation Blessing Foundation Philippines, and Shining Light Foundation, Inc.

Valenciano went up close and personal to the beneficiaries by visiting them as they had their doctor’s check-ups. He also led the distribution of school supplies to the students of Camalig North Central School.

“It has always been my heart’s desire to meet with beneficiaries face-to-face. It fuels me to continue in entertaining and blessing people,” Valenciano shared.

After the students watched an episode of CBN Asia’s children’s animated series, Superbook, Valenciano treated the residents of Camalig in a mini concert. He did not only entertain the audience but also encouraged them by sharing his personal battle against sickness.

Valenciano, who has been a partner of Operation Blessing for over 20 years expressed how grateful he is for the opportunity he had been given to bless others. “This is the perfect organization to be a part of. When you talk about Operation Blessing, you are talking about an organization that would not be around for that long if they are not doing things the right way,” he added. He shared how amazed he is to see a network of doctors and volunteers coming together to have a huge impact in a community.

For Valenciano, giving back to his hometown is his way of serving God. “I do not really need to do this, but I’m driven to do it. If I can go out of my way to go to far-off places, to speak, touch, and reach out to people, then I would gladly do it,” he said.

DOE Partners with PUP for Institutional Capacity Building

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Department of Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi, Undersecretary Raul B. Aguilos, Mr. Pascualito Beltran Gatan, Vice President for Branches and Campuses along with Dr. Junithesmer D. Rosales, Dean of the PUP Graduate School were present for the signing the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the conduct of MPA for DOE employees on Monday, 3 December 2018.

Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) on Monday (3 December) at the DOE Multi-Purpose Building.

Under the MOA, PUP will conduct post-graduate classes for qualified DOE employees for its Master’s degree in Public Administration (MPA). DOE in turn, will transfer PhP 4,199,958 to PUP to cover tuition fees, miscellaneous fees and honorarium of professors and lecturers.

Secretary Cusi said, “It is our intent to further enhance the future leaders of the Department. On the technical aspect of capacity building, we are continuously updating our knowledge through local and foreign trainings, especially for modern technologies. Through this MOA, we aim to nurture a primed workforce that is adept in the administrative aspect of our day-to-day operations. This would ease our processes within the Department, ensuring that we will be able to serve the public more efficiently and at a higher standard.”

There are 42 DOE employees who qualified for the post-graduate degree program after a stringent selection process.

“We wanted to make sure that the best employees within the Department were given this privilege, especially those with aspirations in a long-term career in public service.” Secretary Cusi added.

The MPA degree program will run from CY 2018 to 2020 and the qualified participants will be required to maintain a General Weighted Average (GWA) not lower than 2.0 as part of the standards set in the MOA.

2nd World of Consumer Electronics Expo (WOCEE) and the 2nd World of Safety and Security Expo (WOSAS) Happening Until Dec 8

Wazzup Pilipinas!
The technology and security expo that will lead the Filipinos toward a safer future is now open!

The 2nd World of Consumer Electronics Expo (WOCEE) and the 2nd World of Safety and Security Expo (WOSAS) is now open starting December 5 and happening until December 8 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila.

The simultaneous events were graced by the presence of the following VIPs (above photo): 

<L-R> Ms. Tessie Roque - WSI Director, Police Director Guillermo Eleazar - National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Regional Director, His Excellency Dr. Aman Rashid - Embassy of Pakistan, Her Excellency Capaya Rodriguez Gonzzales - Embassy of Venezuela, Mr. Joseph L. Ang - WSI Founding Chairman, USec. Ruth Castelo - Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Sec. Delfin N. Lorenzana - Department of National Defense (DND), Mrs. Levi S. Ang - WSI Co-Founder and Ms. Jill Aithnie Ang - WSI Managing Director

Giving of the WOCEE WOSAS 2018 Token of Appreciation:

The WOCEE WOSAS guests of honor receiving the token of appreciation together with the WSI Executives. 

<L-R>: Arch. Francisco Flameño Jr. - WSI Executive Director, Ms. Jill Aithnie Ang - WSI Managing Director, Mr. Joseph L. Ang - WSI Founding Chairman, Usec. Ruth Castelo - Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Sec. Delfin Lorenzana - Department of National Defense (DND), Director Gen. Oscar Albayalde - Philippine National Police (PNP), Mrs. Levi Ang - WSI Co-Founder and Ms. Tessie Roque - WSI Director

A Holiday Feast Awaits at World Bazaar Festival 2018

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Aside from the joys of gift-giving and the cheers of festivities, just the thought of all the gastronomic delights to be had during the Christmas season is enough to stir up the excitement among food lovers. Luckily for foodies, the World Bazaar Festival – the country’s longest annual running charity bazaar – on its 18th edition is back to host not only the biggest holiday shopping extravaganza of the year but also, a splendid food feast for shoppers and eager eaters alike!


Woobie’s Food World

WBF is known for its larger-than-life bazaar presentations and exciting pocket events that surely make for a unique holiday experience. But on top of all that, WBF is also an ideal destination to satiate one’s yuletide cravings. This year, WBF 2018: A Boogie Woobie Christmas, is thrilled to offer a wide selection of food stalls and food products from various local food sellers to truly give bazaar goers a satisfying holiday food trip experience.

At Woobie’s Food World, one can choose from over 50 booths that will be serving up a delectable range of snacks and food varieties. Among the participating food stalls at this year’s WBF include World of Fries, Waffles & Soda, Monster Belly, Crazy Tako, Sushie Kenzie, and Café Sultan to name a few. Here, bazaar goers can also freely relax, unwind, and recharge from all the shopping action as well as enjoy the live stage activities all the while munching on the delectable eats.

Woobie’s Goodies

Nothing evokes the Christmas spirit quite like our all-time favorite goodies and staple pinoy delicacies. Attesting that WBF truly is a foodie’s paradise during the holiday season, Woobie’s Goodies is a signature WBF pavilion where one can find an array of baked goods, snacks, and delicacies from across the country. From savory cakes and exotic delicacies such as toasted cashews, nuts, and sweet and spicy dilis anchovies by Chef Roger’s to the unique coffee blend of Starkaffea, Woobie’s Goodies is where you can find sweet and delectable treats to bring home and share with your loved ones.

Regional eats

Another foodie highlight that awaits bazaar goers at this year’s WBF is a special pavilion presented in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR). Aimed at highlighting the local food products and likewise empower farmers and local business owners this holiday season, the DA x BFAR pavilion will be featuring an impressive display of regional goods that will make for one-of-a-kind Christmas presents or simply as enjoyable treats to feast on this season.

Among the mouthwatering food products to be found at the pavilion include the assortment of flavored fresh milk by DVF Dairy Products from Nueva Ecija; ready-to-eat bottled food such as Pork Bicol Express, Tinapa Bicol Express, Regular and Spicy Laing, and Bicol Chili Paste by HML Foods Corporation; organic teas and food supplements by IMEKS Food Enterprises; organic rice by Joyful Organic Farm; and the festive Fruit Wines by Vino Arsan Enterprises.

Organized by Worldbex Services International and presented in partnership with ABS-CBN, the 18th WBF is happening on December 12 to 22, 2018, from Sunday to Thursday (12:00nn to 10:00pm) and Friday to Saturday (10:00am to 12:00mn) at the World Trade Center Manila. For more information, follow @worldbazaarfestival on Facebook and Instagram, call (02) 656-9239, or email inquire@worldbexevents.com.