Angkas Gets Massive Support From Commuters, Lawmakers, Celebs, And Various Groups

Popular app-based ride-hailing service Angkas has been getting overwhelming support from commuters, lawmakers, government officials, celebrities, and various other groups in light of the recent TRO issued by the Supreme Court in favor of the LTFRB.

The massive support that Angkas has been getting was evident in a free concert that the ride-hailing service held last Saturday at the Quezon City Circle main stage. Thousands of people--all Angkas customers and supporters--went to the free concert that featured top celebrities such as Nadine Lustre, Sam Concepcion, Hale, Ella Cruz, Shanti Dope, Mayonnaise, Quest, Ex Battalion, Gab Valenciano, and Andrew E.

Angkas Complies With SC TRO As Angkas Riders Join Unity Ride To Decry Gov't Discrimination

Around a thousand Angkas riders, who suddenly found themselves at the receiving end of LTFRB apprehensions, joined a massive Unity Ride this Sunday as they decry the LTFRB's continued drive to shut down their operations permanently. 

The Unity Ride, which denounced government discrimination of motorcycle riders, saw around 2,000 bikers from different motorcycle clubs in Metro Manila and nearby provinces going from the Kalayaan Shrine on EDSA, heading northward towards Centris near Quezon Avenue, then making a U-turn to head back to the Kalayaan Shrine. 

Banca ni DV project turns over 20 to augment fishermen's livelihood in Lian, Batangas

DV Boer Farm International Corporation, headed by its CEO Dexter Villamin, formally donated today some 20 bancas to fishermen in Barangay Matabungkay during a turnover ceremony held at Matabungkay Beach Hotel and attended by AFP, PAF, and DSWD officials, along with media attendees, mostly from national dailies and news networks.

The bancas, produced by workers from Barangay Hukay in Calatagan, are part of the total 50 "Banca ni DV" to be distributed in Lian, Batangas in line with Oplan Pamamalakaya. The other 30 will be given out soon to fishermen residing in Brgy San Diego.

Movement Against Malaria: Conquering A Dreaded Disease

Back in the 90s, the Philippines used to be a hotbed of Malaria cases. Two decades in, the country is close to becoming totally Malaria-free.

Health officials and health advocates, however, believe that there is still much to accomplish to completely rid the country of this dreaded disease.

in the Kapihan sa Manila Hotel held last Monday, Department of Health (DOH) national Malaria coordinator Dr. Raffy Deray stressed that the country is definitely on its way to being Malaria-free, thanks to the efforts of some private-sector health advocates who have worked hand-in-hand with the government to curb the dreaded disease.

ANGKAS BUHAY: 1st Ever Motorcycle Ambulance To Hit The Streets

Anniversary Safety Fiesta calls for maiden batch of paramedic volunteers

Angkas, the fastest-growing motorcycle-hailing app service in the Philippines, has revealed plans to come up with the very first motorcycle ambulance service in the country.

Dubbed "Angkas Buhay," the groundbreaking ambulance service aims to provide first aid on-the-spot for emergency cases or immediate transport of doctors to the patient. In this regard, Angkas is inviting existing driver-partners and new sign-ups to join the pilot program in Metro Manila to train as volunteer paramedics.

Initially a collaboration between Angkas, Our Lady of Guadalupe Colleges (OLGC), and Victor R. Potenciano Medical Center (VRP) in Mandaluyong City, Angkas Buhay will pioneer an intensive training course for Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT-certified) drivers.

JCI Manila And Gold Seas Tuna Launch Underwater Exhibtion For Coral Rehabilitation

JCI Manila, in partnership with Gold Seas Tuna Chunks, launches the first and official underwater exhibition that will become artificial coral reefs. 

Gold Seas Tuna Chunks’ dedication to responsible and sustainable fishing practices, which has enabled it to be certified dolphin-safe, has expanded this commitment to help rehabilitate Philippine coral reefs and revive the rich marine ecosystem.

Super Crunch supports Makati MPBL Team

The Makati MPBL team recently  launched its new name. From Makati Skyscrapers, they will now be known as the Makati Super Crunch.

Team Owner Paolo Orbeta is happy to announce its partnership with Super Crunch, a leading product of PriFood, owned by Enrico Yap Jr.

"We are happy with the support of Super Crunch and we are grateful to Mr. Yap for the trust in the Makati team," Orbeta says.

"We Promise to work harder and play better games so we can make Super Crunch proud of us,"says co-team owner Paolo Pineda.

"Don't look now but Super Cruch was plans to enter the PBA in the coming years and if given the chance would be like to be help also to our national team and other sports as well,"says Makati team manager Martin Arenas.

Watch out as Super Crunch supports a super MPBL Makati team.

WWF-Philippines, Ayala Malls, and partners launch #AyokoNgPlastik movement

Uniting under the call to end plastic pollution, the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines, together with Ayala Malls and other partner corporations, officially launched the #AyokoNgPlastik movement at Glorietta 2 Activity Center.

With eight million tons of plastic ending up in oceans every year, the Philippines ranks as the world’s third plastic polluter of oceans. The #AyokoNgPlastik movement hopes to address these alarming facts by bringing together companies, individuals, and other sectors to minimize and eventually put a stop to single-use plastics such as straws, bags, bottles, and cups. Refusing these is a simple yet strong first step that individuals can take to commit to a sustainable lifestyle, especially since the harm that these materials cause directly affect humans.

Prestone shares road safety tips for a stress-free Undas

Thousands of Filipinos are expected to travel to their respective provinces in observance of Undas. Some of those who will traverse the road will be driving with their cars. For long trips, it is especially important to make sure that the car is properly equipped and in good condition for safe driving.

This Undas, PRESTONE, a leading innovator of cutting-edge coolants, brake fluid, and motor oils, is joining the “Safe Trip Mo, Sagot Ko” project of NLEX Corporation, where they will be providing assistance to motorists who will pass through the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), the Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), and the Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX).

The annual #WorldPandesalDay as civic & cultural endeavor

The 4th “World Pandesal Day” was held on October 16, 2018 at the burnt ruins in Judge Jimenez Street corner K-1st Street, Barangay Kamuning, Quezon Citywhere Kamuning Bakery Café gave free 70,000 pandesal breads and other foods.

On October 28 Sunday 8 a.m., the public is also invited to a free medical, dental and optical mission at Kamuning Bakery Café in cooperation with Chinese General Hospital led by its CEO Dr. James G. Dy.

70,000 breads & other foods given by Quezon City’s oldest bakery in #WorldPandesalDay

Quezon City Vice-Mayor Joy Belmonte, GMA Network, Inc. chairman Atty. Felipe Gozon and Congressman NeriColmenares led guests who assisted Kamuning Bakery Café owner Wilson Lee Flores in giving away 70,000 pandesal, cheese, sardines, noodles and other foods on the 4th “World Pandesal Day” on October 16.

DespiteaFebruary 6 fire from a neighboring resto bar which burned down Quezon City’s pioneer and award-winning 79-year-old Kamuning Bakery Café, its owner Wilson Lee Flores, staff and bakers are still optimistic.He is not discouraged, because he said he has overcome many other past crises ever since the death of his father when he was only seven years old and he had also witnessed his late teacher mother’s strong faith.

Containing an outbreak

Expanded Immunization Program (EPI), door-to-door campaigns and several information drives, the Department of Health (DOH) has implemented a thorough immunization program against the measles early this year. Addressing its alarming spread in January, DOH’s vaccination program tried containing the contagious disease that has already killed 13 individuals as early as March this year. According to DOH data released in April, these were seen in Taguig, Zamboanga, Davao and Negros Oriental. Because of the air-borne characteristics of the virus, it is quicker to spread as seen in the several provinces affected by the disease.

PH’s Pasig River ViesFor Asia River Prize Award; Competes With China's Yangtze River

The Philippines' Pasig River, the cradle of early Manila civilization, has been selected as a finalist in the first ever Asia Riverprize by the prestigious International River Foundation (IRF) which recognizes and rewards organizations who are making a difference through effective river basin restoration and management programs.

It is a back-to-back nomination for the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) who just came from a successful campaign in the 2017 Thiess International Riverprize competition where the Pasig River was hailed as runner-up to the winner, San Antonio River of Texas, USA.

Over 200 Pasig River relocatees receive free medical aid from PRRC

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) in partnership with St. Joseph Academy of Valenzuela Alumni Association, Salcres Physical Therapy Foundation International Inc., Myshare Foundation and Wow Health and Wellness Optical Clinic, spearheaded a medical mission on June 2, 2018 at Jaime Cardinal Sin Village (JCSV), 728 Housing, Punta Sta. Ana, Manila City.

This free medical mission was given to at least 200 individuals relocated from the banks of the Pasig River into one of the country’s first in-city relocation sites in Metro Manila.

PRRC, Los Angeles Public Works boost sister rivers partnership

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission’s (PRRC) and the Los Angeles County Board of Public Works (LACBPW) revitalized their “Sister Rivers” partnership on July 18, 2018 in Quezon City.

The “Sister River” partnership was forged between PRRC and the Los Angeles Department of Public Works to support the PRRC’s efforts to rehabilitate Pasig River. 

PRRC Executive Director Jose Antonio E. Goitia said there is a need to reinvigorate the “Sister River” partnership to help in their effort of rehabilitating the Pasig River.

PRRC urges public to share unique stories about Pasig River

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) urged the public to share their unique stories about the Pasig River.

According to PRRC Executive Director Jose Antonio E. Goitia, the public needs to know these stories to inspire them to help in the revival of the Pasig River.

PRRC Rescused Families During Typhoon Henry Floods

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) on July 17, 2018 rescued and evacuated residents living along the river to temporarily evacuate to a safer area as Typhoon #HenryPH caused flooding in low-lying areas.

PRRC Executive Director Jose Antonio E. Goitia mobilized the river warriors to assist him in the rescue operations while the river patrols assisted in the monitoring of water level in the other areas of Pasig and San Juan Rivers.

Possible return of stolen Balangiga church bells is victory of Philippine independent foreign policy & struggles, not American benevolence

Speakers at Kamuning Bakery Café’s non-partisan Pandesal Forum in Quezon City on August 14 were Balangiga Battle hero Capt. Eugenio Daza’s grandson and president of Kaanak 1896 (association of descendants of the Philippine Revolution and Phil-American War era) Eugenio Roy Daza, “Balangiga: Howling Wilderness” film director & co-writer Khavn de la Cruz and producer/co-writer Achinette Villamor, geopolitics analysts Butch Valdes and George Siy of Integrated Development Studies Institute (IDSI). Moderator is writer Wilson Lee Flores.

Experts say Charter Change can end political dynasties, boost economic growth

Experts said at the non-partisan Pandesal Forum in Quezon City that the proposed charter change of the 1987 constitution can help end the Philippines’ notorious, age-old tradition of political dynasties dominating local government units (LGUs) nationwide; it shall boost “more inclusive economic growth” by decentralizing government funds and encourage more business investments outside the National Capital Region (NCR) of Metro Manila. It is envisioned to craft “one of the world’s most modern and truly democratic constitutions in the world”.

AASM's 14th Annual Conference To Be Held in DLSU

From August 2 to 4, 2018, the Asian Association of Sport Management (AASM), in cooperation with Sport Management Council of the Philippines (SportPhil) and the De La Salle University-Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business (DLSU-RVRCOB) will hold AASM's 14th annual conference at the De La Salle University Taft campus in Manila 

National Digital Arts Awards 2018 Opens Search for Exceptional Digital Artworks

Creative passion and outstanding Filipino artistry take center stage once again as the National Digital Arts Awards 2018 begins its call for digital arts entries, launching this year’s theme of “Driven by Design.

Fueled by Passion. EMPOWERING TODAY’S DIGITAL ARTIST.”

The annual National Digital Arts Awards (NDAA) has been highlighting the best talents in digital arts since 2013, and is again presented by Globaltronics Inc., a game-changer in the world of digital media and the leader in digital signage and out-of-home advertising. Now on its fifth year, the NDAA 2018 is the grandest yet as it offers more chances of winning and bigger prizes for deserving Filipino digital artists who will showcase their exemplary creations and world-class talent.

Because of digital media’s popularity and ubiquity among the younger generation of artists, the minimum age for this year's event has been lowered to encourage more entries from students, which would now be judged in a separate category. NDAA 2018 is now open to professionals, students, and artists as young as 14 years old.

Interested parties may submit their artworks to qualify for the following categories: Digital Art in Print, Character Design, Animation / Motion Graphics, Best Digital Short Movie, Best Website Design, and Best Drone Movie Experience. With more categories to choose from, this year’s NDAA also comes with bigger and more exciting prizes, with almost three million pesos (Php 3,000,000.00) worth of cash and prizes in store for the winners.

The nationwide search for exceptional digital arts talents will culminate in a day-long event that features a digital arts expo, talks from special guests, entertainment, and the much-awaited awarding ceremony.

For more information on how to join the NDAA 2018, as well as details about sponsorship and partnership packages, contact Tobias Miguel Bernardo (email: TM.Bernardo@jumpdigital.asia / mobile: +639178151108) or Moby Aragones (email: moses.aragones@jumpdigital.asia / mobile: +639988878870) or visit the NDAA Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NDAAPhilippines.

"Our Steel Is Not Like Banana" - Engr. Morales

During a meeting with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) last May 11, 2018, Senator Nikki Coseteng and Engineer Emilio Morales presented a series of questions directed towards the steel manufacturers regarding the use of Quenched Tempered (QT/TMT) steel. 

After they presented their queries, Wellington Tong, chair of the PAGASA Steel, stated that it would be difficult to answer all the presenters’ questions. Tong then proceeded to explain the lengthy process of manufacturing Quenched Tempered (QT/TMT) steel, at the same time clearing up a few misunderstandings and answering some questions. 

Study: PET bottles have 90 percent retrieval rate in the Philippines

Polyethylene terephthalate or PET bottles are one of the most valuable forms of plastic in the Philippines and the most retrieved due to its high residual value – or its predicted value after consumption. PET bottles are commonly used in food and beverage packaging.

A study conducted by global advocacy firm McKinsey Center for Business and Environment showed that the Philippines has one of the highest PET bottle recovery rates at 90 percent.

“Higher residual value plastics are more likely to be collected from disposal sites and then resold. This means that products or packaging with low residual value are less likely to be collected; they therefore become a particularly significant contributor to ocean plastic,” the study, entitled “Stemming the Tide: Land-based Strategies for a Plastic-free Ocean” said.

Former Solon Accuses Steel Manufacturers Of Dilatory Tactics

“Nililihis nila ang usapan. Iniiba nila ang topic samantala simple lang naman ang tanong (They are veering away from the topic). They want the discussions to be technical when I only need a yes or no answer. Are quenched steel rebars safe to use in a seismic zone 4 country like the Philippines?”

In 2010, Engineer Emilio Morales presented the study “A CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER 2 – THE USE OF QT OR TMT BARS IN SEISMIC ZONE 4” where he said that QT/TMT rebars behave quite differently under Cyclic loading or earthquake shaking and are also very much affected by heating, welding, bending, galvanizing and threading procedures employed in their use particularly in high rise buildings under Seismic Zone 

Meet “The One” in the Wake Up Manila JobCon

Whether it’s love or job hunting, finding The One can sometimes be a long and painful journey. Sending out CVs, waiting long days for feedback and awkward interviews are all par for the course in the search for the perfect job match.   

That’s why Springboard Philippines, one of the country’s most dynamic talent search companies, aims to help fresh grads and job seekers find the One at the Wake Manila JobCon (or Job Convention), a fun and fresh take on the traditional job fair that will help them make all the right career moves.    

Wake Up Manila is a job convention that aims to emphasize the “human connection” often forgotten in job fairs and the overall recruitment process. It’s all happening on July 6 to 7, 2018 from 10AM to 6PM at the SMX Convention Center Function Room 3 in Pasay City. Attendees can pre-register at http://bit.ly/WakeUpMNL2018 or during the event itself for free. 

Playing Russian Roulette

Last Friday May 11, 2018, the Department of Trade and industry’s Secretary Ramon Lopez presided over a forum of stakeholders at the BOI AVR Room where Engineer Emilio Morales presented again before the construction industry and leaders of various government agencies the study “A CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER 2 - THE USE OF QT OR TMT IN SEISMIC ZONE 4”

ABS-CBN Foundation, TFC and BA work with The Salvation Army to Respond to Puna Lava Flow in Hawaii

As part of its public service commitment, ABS-CBN Foundation International, ABS-CBN The Filipino Channel (TFC) and BA, the leading daily Filipino news TV program in North America, joined hands to work with the County of Hawai’i and its designated lead non-profit, The Salvation Army, to help the local Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) in supporting those affected by the Puna lava flow from the eruption of Kilauea volcano in Hawaii’s Big Island.

ABS-CBN Foundation International (AFI) has made an appeal on behalf of The Salvation Army via crawlers on TFC on cable, satellite and IPTV.  ABS-CBN TFC is the leading Filipino media and entertainment network in North America and in the world.

“Steel Secrets” Exposed

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) under the honorable Secretary Ramon Lopez was briefed on the  importance and the critical implications of the Philippine steel manufacturers’ substitution of micro alloy (MA) reinforced bars with quenched tempered (QT/TMT) steel rebars for  over 10 years ago. 

Last Friday, May 11 2018, Secretary Lopez presided over a forum of stakeholders at the BOI AVR in Makati where Engineer Emilio Morales presented again before the construction industry and leaders of various government agencies the study “A CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER - THE USE OF QT OR TMT REBARS IN SEISMIC ZONE 4” which he published about 8 Years ago, and presented in various Structural Engineer’s Fora at the National and Regional levels.

Conflict-Affected Farmers In Marawi Receive Food Assistance

Filipino farmers affected by fighting in Marawi are to receive food assistance from the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). This has been made possible by a PHP12.4 million (€300,000) contribution from the Government of Italy to WFP.

“Italy stands with the Philippine Government in its efforts to assist the people of Marawi,” said Italian Ambassador Giorgio Guglielmino. “Our partnership with the World Food Programme will support the food needs of thousands of Filipinos as they rebuild their lives.”

Fighting broke out in Marawi City in May 2017 between government forces and armed militant groups linked to the so-called Islamic State. WFP has since been supporting the Government of the Philippines by addressing the nutrition needs of conflict-affected communities.

Australia And WFP Provide School Meals To 50,000 Marawi Children

The Australian Government has provided PHP42.7 million (AUD1.1 million) to the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to support the Philippine Government’s response to the Marawi crisis.

With this funding, WFP will be able to provide six months of school meals for 50,000 students affected by the crisis.

“As a good friend and neighbor, Australia is committed to providing humanitarian assistance when necessary,” said Australian Ambassador Amanda Gorely. “Through our partnership with the Department of Education and Task Force Bangon Marawi, we are supporting people affected by the Marawi crisis.”

Chooks-to-Go reunites families through new campaign

Chooks-to-Go, a home-grown roasted chicken brand that captured the Filipino palate, is introducing this year a new campaign that reinforces what Chooks-to-Go is— a brand whose success is attributed to hard work.

The new campaign, tagged as Sarap ng Pagsisikap, highlights and compares the journey to success of Chooks-to-Go and a common Filipino.