Sunday, 31 January 2016

WATCH: Vic and Pauleen’s heartwarming wedding video

MANILA, Philippines - The video of Vic Sotto and Pauleen Luna’s wedding can be finally viewed online.

Vic and Pauleen’s heartwarming wedding video

Renowned videographer Jason Magbanua captured the highlights of the highly-anticipated wedding of the Eat Bulaga hosts held at St. James The Great Parish Church in Alabang on Saturday, January 30. The video featured scenes from the wedding preparation, the actual ceremony as well as the reception.

In his Facebook post, Magbanua revealed that he and Luna first met during the wedding of the brother of Ruby Rodriguez in Boracay in 2008. Although Luna was still single at that time, she told Magbanua that she would like him to film her future wedding after seeing the videographer’s creation.

"I'm single, I'm with no one right now, but when it's time, I'd love for you to film my wedding,” Luna told Magbanua.

Several years later, Luna asked Magbanua to cover her wedding shortly after she and Sotto announced their engagement.

In their official wedding video, Sotto disclosed that he was used to having short relationships or flings in the past. However, Sotto said that it was great to have someone to call his spouse.

Meanwhile, Luna said in her speech that a lot of people didn’t understand their relationship. Although theirs was not ideal, Luna described it as “genuine” and “unbreakable”.

“You made me see that true love knows no age, no boundaries, beyond what the eyes can see, that true love is felt,” Luna said.

“Remember from this day on, we are one. I will hold your hand through this whole journey and I will not let go. Thank you and I love you,” she added.

Sotto, who is 35 years older than Luna, first confirmed their relationship in December 2013. Their relationship, which began in 2011, was hounded by several controversies in the past.

Watch their heartwarming wedding video.


-Mini/The Summit Express

VIDEO: Monterozo Twins wow in 'Sound of Silence,' beatbox on PGT

MANILA, Philippines - Monterozo twins from Las PiΓ±as wowed with the performance of OMI's "Cheerleader" and Simon Garfunkel's "Sound of Silence" on Pilipinas Got Talent (PGT) Season 5 audition phase on Sunday, January 31, 2016.

Monterozo Twins PGT 5
Monterozo Twins. Photo Credit: OfficialPGT5/Twitter
Roland and Rovince impressed the crowd with their beatboxing skills and good blending.

"Naaaliw ako. Kung makapasok kayo sa grand finals, puro ganun lang?," Vice Ganda said while laughing on the sound of the trumphet from Roland's voice.

"Kahit nagbe-beatbox kayo di 'nyo nakakalimutan yung tunog, i-relate sa audience, sa amin kaya plus points sa akin yun," judge Angel Locsin commented.

"You're act is so simple. It's very sweet. You look great but I don't know if it's worth P2 million (referring to the grand prize of the winner of the show)," judge Freddie M. Garcia told the duo.

Having heard the comments of Vice Ganda and FMG, the Monterozo twins offered to sing the "Sound of Silence" which gave them the thumbs up.

"Now you're singing. Now, I understand," FMG said.

WATCH: Pilipinas Got Talent Season 5 Auditions: Monterozo Twins - Singing/Beatbox Duo (video courtesy of ABS-CBN)


VIDEO: Pole dancer Celine Venayo gets "most beautiful YES" on PGT

MANILA, Philippines - Nineteen-year old pole dancer Celine Venayo from Paranaque City received the "most beautiful YES" from Pilipinas Got Talent (PGT) Season 5 judge on Sunday, January 31, 2016.

Pole dancer Celine Venayo gets "most beautiful YES" on PGT
Pole dancer Celine Venayo received "most beautiful YES" on PGT. Photo Credit: OfficialPGT5/Twitter
Judge Robin Padilla was amazed on her gracious execution of pole dancing.

"'Wag ka na magsalita Robin. Kitang-kita sa face mo na bilib na bilib ka," judge Freddie M. Garcia joked to Robin after Angel Locsin asked if Robin was happy on her performance.

"Una, ang ganda-ganda mo. Na-expressed mo ang sarili mo at naramdaman ko, ang galing mo," Robin commented.

"Ang ganda mo nga, kaya naman bwiset na bwiset ako sa'yo. Ipinaramdam mo sa'ken mga kakulangan ko," Vice Ganda added.

"Watching you is like watching an art in motion. You are so graceful and a pure art form," FMG added.

WATCH: Pilipinas Got Talent Season 5 Auditions: Celine Venayo - Pole Dance (video courtesy of ABS-CBN)


What can you say on her performance? Tell us in the comment section below.

RELATED STORY
VIDEO: 'Super Goodie Pep Squad Duo' wows PGT judges, viewers

VIDEO: 'Super Goodie Pep Squad Duo' wows PGT judges, viewers

MANILA, Philippines - The talented pep squad duo called "Super Goodie" wowed the judges and viewers of Pilipinas Got Talent (PGT) Season 5 on Sunday, January 31, 2016.

'Super Goodie Pep Squad Duo' wows PGT judges, viewers


The duo from Calamba City, Laguna received 4 'YESes' from the judges with some netizens expect the act to receive the highly coveted 'golden buzzer' that may send them automatically to the semi-finals.



The eight-year old girl amazed the crowd due to her cuteness and dance prowess.

"Kaya pala hindi pa nagshu-shooting si Darna kasi maliit pa siya. Napakahusay mong bata," judge Vice Ganda commented.

"You're really fantastic, ang galing galing mo," judge Freddie M. Garcia said.

WATCH: Pilipinas Got Talent Season 5 Auditions: Super Goodie - Pep Squad Duo (video courtesy of ABS-CBN)


What do you think of their performance, do they deserved the Golden Buzzer?

Saturday, 30 January 2016

List of Passers: January 2016 Architect board exam (ALE) results

Those awaiting results of the January 2016 Architect board exam also known as Architect Licensure Examination (ALE) can find here the full list of passers, top 10 (topnocthers), top performing schools and performance of schools as the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and the Board of Architecture (BoA) released results in few working days after the last day of exam.

 January 2016 Architect board exam results (ALE)


PRC conducted the Architect board exam on January 29 and 31, 2016 in the cities of Manila, Cebu and Legaspi. The Board of Architecture who gave the licensure exam is headed by its Chairman, Arch. Rolando L. Cordero and board member, Arch. Fidel Jose R. Siapno.

Roll of Successful Examinees in the
ARCHITECT LICENSURE EXAMINATION
Held on JANUARY 29 & 31, 2016
Released on FEBRUARY 2016

Updating for the list of passers....

The two-day exam covered the following subjects: history and theory of architecture, principle of planning and architecture practice, utilities systems, structural conceptualization, building materials and construction (January 29) and architectural design and site planning (January 31).

According to PRC, the target release date of Architect board exam is on Friday, February 5, 2016 or in 5 working days after the tests.

In June 2015, results were released in 4 working days after the last day of exam. 867 out of 1,428 successfully passed the Architect Licensure Examination (ALE).

In June 2015, results were out online after 5 working days. PRC named 1,201 out of 1,964 passers of the ALE.

The Summit Express and PRC Board News advise examinees to monitor results starting Thursday, February 4 or in 4 working days.

Aside from the complete results, the registration schedule for the issuance of Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration will be announced. Those who will register are required to bring the following: duly accomplished Oath Form or Panunumpa ng Propesyonal, current Community Tax Certificate (cedula), 1 piece passport size picture (colored with white background and complete name tag), 2 sets of metered documentary stamps and 1 short brown envelope with name and profession and to pay the Initial Registration Fee of P600 and Annual Registration Fee of P450 for 2016-2019. Successful examinees should personally register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals.

The Summit Express will update this page immediately once the results are released online.

Like Us on Facebook, Follow Us on Twitter or subscribe to our E-mail list to receive Architect board exam-related updates.

IN PHOTOS: Vic Sotto and Pauleen Luna wedding day

MANILA, Philippines - Eat Bulaga hosts Vic Sotto and Pauleen Luna will be officially husband and wife today!

ALMOST MR. AND MRS. SOTTO
ALMOST MR. AND MRS. SOTTO. Photo Credit: Eat Bulaga and arsibaltazar3/Instagram
The perfect time has arrived that breaks their 34-year age gap as Vic, 61, will finally marry his longtime girlfriend Pauleen, 27, at the St. James the Great Parish in Alabang on Saturday, January 30.

Pauleen's gorgeous wedding gown and Vic suit were designed by celebrated Filipino designer Francis Libiran.

Eat Bulaga co-hosts Tito Sotto and Joey de Leon are the principal sponsors while Ruby Rodriguez serves as the Matron of Honor. Anjo Yllana, Wally Bayola, Jose Manalo, and Paolo Ballesteros are groomsmen and Ryzza Mae Dizon is the flower girl.

Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, one of the best friends of Pauleen Luna, although busy with her responsibilities did not miss the event.

A photo posted by Harley Tan (@harleybarleyyy) on

More than 200 guests, family and closest friends of the couple are expected to attend the simple yet elegant ceremony.

Here are some of the photos for the much-anticipated Vic Sotto and Pauleen Luna wedding (courtesy of respective owners). refresh page for the updates:

A photo posted by Tito Sotto (@helenstito) on


A photo posted by @gorgyrula on


A photo posted by @gorgyrula on

A photo posted by @gorgyrula on


A photo posted by Chrys treasured chest Fb page (@chrys_treasured_chest) on


A photo posted by Ruby Rodriguez (@rodriguezruby) on


Reports said that the couple decided to fly to the beaches of Maldives for their honeymoon.

Pauleen disclosed that she hopes to be blessed with a child soon. She also shared that she will not be doing as many soap operas so she can focus on being a wife to Vic.

Vic Sotto proposed to Pauleen in September 2015 after almost four years of dating.


INC vs. ABS-CBN News? #ABSCBNnomore trends on Twitter

MANILA, Philippines - Netizens on Saturday, January 30, wondered on highly offensive '#ABSCBNnomore' trend on Twitter with the aim to boycott broadcast giant ABS-CBN and other local news organizations due to the alleged biased reporting and irresponsible journalism. But, who's behind this campaign to attack and why?

Why #ABSCBNnomore trends on Twitter?
#ABSCBNnomore trends on Twitter. Screeshot from Twitter Photos.




Most impact on #ABSCBNnomore trend

Based on Philippines Trends (@trendinaliaPI), which automatically monitors every hashtag on the social networking sites, the tweet with the most impact on the #ABSCBNnomore trend was published by @Access_TRUTH account.


On its Facebook, Access the TRUTH page for Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) updates encouraged netizens to boycott ABS-CBN as they called them 'ABIAS-CBN.'

"Post po ninyo sa Twitter ang 1000 reasons natin kung bakit ‪#‎ABSCBNnomore‬ para mas madame po ang magtweet," Access the TRUTH shared.

The page cited some instances ABS-CBN allegedly failed to deliver the truth on news reporting.

ABS-CBN allegedly failed to deliver the truth on news reporting

"Ang mas pinanigan ng ABS CBN ay ang iilang tiwalag na gumagamit sa kanila upang sirain ang Iglesia, tinalikuran at sinaktan ng ABS CBN ang milyun-milyong kapatid sa buong mundo na marami sa kanila ay kanilang subscribers.

"Kahit alam ABS CBN na ang mga tiwalag na ito ay may mga hinanakit sa Pamamahala sa pagdidisiplina sa kanila dahil sa kanilang paglabag. Natural lamang na puro masama ang sasabihin ng mga ito tungkol sa Iglesia at sa Pamamahala na wala namang katotohanan. Ito’y sa layunin lamang na pabagsakin ang Pamamahala at mga pangunahing katuwang Nila.

"MULA PA SA SIMULA NG MGA ISYU TUNGKOL SA IGLESIA, WALANG PAGSISIKAP ANG ABS CBN NA MALAMAN ANG KUMPLETONG PANIG NG IGLESIA. KUNG MAY ALAM MAN SILA, KANILA ITONG ITINATAGO.

"Nagparamdam na tayo sa kanila, ngunit itinuloy pa rin nila ang biased reporting, siempre may basbas ito ng kanilang management.

"Ginagamit sila ng mga tiwalag upang isulong ang kanilang layuning sirain ang Iglesia sa paningin ng tao.

"Ginagamit din ng ABS CBN ang mga tiwalag upang isulong din ang kanilang hidden agenda."

Check out the full post here.


Did INC order brethren to boycott ABS-CBN?

Several posts on social media also claimed that INC’s Templo Central instructed its members not to watch any program aired by ABS-CBN because the network damaged the sect’s image through its news reports.

ABS-CBN was among the local news organizations which covered the controversial arrest of former INC minister Lowell Menorca on January 20 on libel charges filed in Marawi City by an INC-affiliated group.

In a report from Inquier, Menorca claimed that he was abducted from Bulan, Sorsogon, on orders of INC leaders, was on his way to court to testify on the writ of habeas corpus and amparo he had filed against the sect when plainclothes policemen arrested him.

Standard.com report, which was shared by Access the TRUTH claimed that expelled Iglesia Ni Cristo member Lowell Menorca said on Tuesday that there is no overt and direct threat from the INC leaders to harm him and his family.

"Menorca made the admission before the Court of Appeals Seventh Division during the cross examination by lawyer Rogelio Vinluan, counsel for respondents INC officials, in connection with the petition for the writ of amparo and writ of habeas corpus filed by Menorca’s family accusing the INC leaders of allegedly holding him in custody against his will at the compound of the INC’s Central Office in Quezon City," the page posted.

Meanwhile, INC spokesperson Edwil Zabala clarified there's no written directive to its members to boycott ABS-CBN and other news organizations. “Walang circular na binasa sa pagsamba ukol sa issue na ’yan," Zabala told Inquirer.

As of press time, ABS-CBN is yet to release statement on this issue.

Friday, 29 January 2016

Can you spot what’s wrong with the Japanese Imperial couple’s photo?

MANILA, Philippines- Several netizens have expressed their disappointment over the Japanese Imperial couple’s picture at the Rizal monument in Luneta park in Manila.

Can you spot what’s wrong with the Japanese Imperial couple’s photo?
Can you spot what’s wrong with the Japanese Imperial couple’s photo?
PHOTO CREDIT: Facebook/Official Gazette
On Wednesday, January 27 Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko laid wreath at the monument of the country’s national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal, to pay tribute. Manila Mayor Joseph Ejercito Estrada also appeared during the wreath-laying ceremony.

A photo of the Imperial couple during the said event was shared on the Facebook page of Official Gazette. Netizens questioned as to why the photo had to be taken from the side.

Several members of the online community pointed out that this was done in order to hide Torre de Manila, the infamous “photobomber” in the historic site.

“Greatest photo bomber of all time.. torre de manila..haha,” commented Facebook user Jerick Rupinto.

A certain Seph Moore wrote: “Tingnan nyo di na makunan ng magandang angulo yung himlayang ng pambansang bayani natin. Dahil sa building na tinatayo sa likod nito”

(They can’t take a photo of our national hero’s shrine on a good angle. That’s because of the building erected at it’s back.)

Netizen Rez Gaud added: “Ganyang angulo na lang para hindi kita ang photobomber, grr.”

(Take it on that angle only so that the photobomber won’t be seen.)

To mark the 60th anniversary of the diplomatic ties between the Philippines and Japan, the emperor and empress of Japan have visited the country for a historic five-day state visit. The two were welcomed by President Benigno Aquino III during their arrival on Tuesday, January 26 and will be staying until January 30.

In 1962, Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko visited the Philippines as crown prince and princess of Japan.

“Their visit underscores the abiding friendship between the Japanese and Filipino people. As our country charts the path that leads to sustainable, inclusive growth we are fortunate that Japan is our steadfast partner and ally,” said Presidential Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. -Mini/The Summit Express

14th month bonus set to be given to government employees

MANILA, Philippines - A bonus equivalent to one month pay is scheduled to be given to government workers this June 2016, highlighting the need for the House and the Senate to break their impasse over a pay hike bill for state workers, Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto said today.

14th month bonus set to be given to government employees


Recto said the proposed Salary Standardization Law IV for government workers provides for a 14th month pay to be given in the middle of the year.

Under its section on "compensation system," the measure seeks the grant of a "a mid-year bonus equivalent to one month basic salary to be given not earlier than May of every year."

"This mid-year bonus becomes the 14th month pay. The traditional 13th month pay being the year-end bonus," Recto said.

"In the past, the 13th month pay was given in 'two gives.' Half in May or June, so that government employees will have money for the school enrolment of their children, and the balance in December. The SSL IV makes what is given mid-year and year-end equivalent to a full month pay each," Recto said.

He said these two bonuses will be tax exempt for most state workers.

By one estimate, both the 13th and 14th month bonuses of 970,943 employees - or 83% of total national government workforce - will be tax-exempt, Recto said.

"There's research which shows that those in the Salary Grades (SG) 1 to 16 will get these bonuses tax-free," he said.

"The mid-year bonus translates to an eight percent increase in the annual pay of government workers and, if early calculations are correct, they will be getting it without any tax deduction," Recto said.

He added most employees holding SG 17 to 23 positions will also get their 13th month pay with no withholding tax.

Recto is the principal author of Republic Act No. 10653 which adjusted the 13th-month pay and other benefits tax-exempt ceiling from P30,000 to P82,000.

The SSL IV also retains the P5,000 Christmas cash gift for all government workers.

In addition, the measure authorizes a "performance-based bonus" of up to two months salary which Recto said should be based "on conditions to be met, like meritorious service, exemplary performance and increase in productivity. While he admitted that the SSL IV has some weaknesses, "it, however, has many good provisions, like the 14th month pay."

"This underscores the need for the House and the Senate to ratify SSL IV's final version, so it can be sent to the President for his signature, and so that payroll can be made," he said.

At present, the SSL IV bill is caught in deadlock after the House and the Senate panels in the conference committee failed to resolve the issue on whether to include the pension of military retirees in the pay hike.

The first tranche of the salary hike in SSL IV is supposed to be included in the January payroll of state workers.

SSL IV spreads the pay adjustments over four years, with the first year costing P57.9 billion. Fully implemented, SSL IV will cost P225.8 billion a year.

Senator decries DoJ's shabby treatment of SAF 44 kin

MANILA, Philippines - Senator Ferdinand "Bongbong" R. Marcos, Jr. decried on Thursday the Department of Justice's shabby treatment of the kin of the 44 commandos of the Special Action Force commandos slain in the Mamasapano massacre.

COMMEMORATION saf 44
Photo Credit: Philippine National Police (PNP)
Marcos said his privilege speech last Tuesday was prompted, among others, by actual requests, sent to him through e-mails, from the family of one of the SAF 44 requesting his assistance to seek justice for the slain police officer and complaining of questionable delays in the preliminary investigation of the cases pending before the DOJ.

He noted that in the first e-mail sent to him dated December 8, 2015, the SAF 44 kin, whom he did not name for security reasons, complained about the cancellation of the scheduled preliminary investigation on the Mamasapano case on November 11 and 27.

The complainant noted that the Nov. 27 hearing was cancelled anew despite the presence of the representatives of 35 SAF commandos from the 55th Seaborne Company as well as the lawyers of some of the respondents.

"Many of the families of the slain SAF 55 are from Visayas and Mindanao. We were travel weary and we spent money for our fare in going to Luzon and hotel accommodation only to be informed later that the hearing is cancelled," the letter-sender said.

In a subsequent e-mail to Marcos, dated January 18, 2016 the SAF 44 kin said they were again told the scheduled January 14, 2016 hearing was cancelled because the case is already submitted for resolution.

"If this is how we treat those that have given their lives in defense of the country, what fate for the ordinary citizen? What fate for those we love and care for in life?" Marcos said.

Marcos further noted that upon receiving the first e-mail, he immediately wrote then Acting Justice Secretary Alfredo Caguioa on the status of the preliminary investigation but he has yet to receive any response. "More than a month has passed since I wrote the DoJ to endorse that email for appropriate action but until now I have not received even a cursory reply to assure that they would attend to the matter," Marcos noted.

With the appointment of Caguioa to the Supreme Court, Marcos had also urged his replacement, undersecretary Emmanuel Caparas to prioritize the resolution of the Mamasapano case, noting that a year after the tragic incident no case has been filed in court against the suspects.

He said no word or gesture can assuage the pain of the families of the slain policemen.

VIDEO: Here’s Pia Wurtzbach’s response to a 17-year-old Pinoy’s “promposal"

MANILA, Philippines- Who would have thought that a teenage Pinoy will have the guts to ask Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach to go the prom?

Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach


Jerel Labra, a 17-year-old Filipino from Texas, courageously asked Wurtzbach to go to the prom with him during the Twitter event #AskMissUniverse on Thursday, January 28.

In the 29-second video clip, Labra said: "I may not be as handsome as James Franco or as funny as Seth Rogen, or may be as ripped as Channing Tatum, but I can say this. I am a runner up. This is my question for you. Pia, will you go to prom with me on April 23rd?”


Apparently, the Pinoy teen’s video of his “promposal” caught the attention of the 26-year-old Filipina beauty queen.

"I'd love to go if my schedule permits. So, we'll see. I can't promise anything yet right now, but your message was really sweet,” Wurtzbach replied.


Wurtzbach Wants Atom Araullo to Join Her in Miss Universe Travel

During the #AskMissUniverse Twitter event, Wurtzbach was asked by one Twitter user to choose three words from a list which includes : love, family, pizza, traveling, Miss Universe crown, Araullo, money, enough sleep and happiness.

Instead of just choosing three words, Wurtzbach gave a creative answer entwining words in order to create a sentence. Araullo was also tagged in Wurtzbach’s tweet.

She wrote: “Traveling as Miss Universe while being interviewed by Atom. (Boom!) haha.”


More popularly known as PiAtom, the love team of Wurtzbach and Araullo rose to fame after the ABS-CBN news reporter interviewed the beauty title holder during an episode of “Umagang Kay Ganda”. After discovering that Wurtzbach wasn’t dating anyone at the moment, the two were teased by Araullo’s co-hosts.

However, Wurtzbach revealed during one of her interviews that her busy schedule and obligations as the reigning Miss Universe would make it difficult for her to date anyone.

“This is my boyfriend for now,” Wurtzbach announced as she gestures to her crown. -Mini/The Summit Express

VIDEO: 'Lucky blogger' has entire PAL plane to himself on flight to Boracay

MANILA, Philippines - A lucky Austrian travel blogger had the entire plane to himself from Manila to Boracay flight as he was the only passenger who showed up, reports said.

Austrian blogger boards PAL flight to Boracay alone
Austrian blogger Alex Simon boards PAL flight to Boracay alone
MailOnline shared that Alex Simon, 28, from Ischgl, Austria, was surprised when no one else boarded the Philippine Airlines (PAL) flight – leaving him alone with two attendants and two pilots.

"When I arrived to the airport I just heard my name on the speaker, "Sir Alexander Simon, please come to the information."

Simon get the chance to to enter the cockpit and talked to the pilots before the plane took off.

"So the lady explained to me that I don’t need to wait two more hours on my connecting flight, we’re gonna start in 30 minutes because there are no more passengers except me," Simon said.

"I was little bit surprised and I couldn't believe it. I thought I was dreaming. Later while boarding I just realised that it’s gonna be a special flight because this time I didn´t even need to line up," Simon added.

He added: "I took my seat then I asked the flight attendant lady if I can sit next to the window. She just answered, “You can sit anywhere, because you’re the only one passenger”."

He said that PAL staff member told him flights on the same route are usually packed.

"It was an unforgettable feeling to take a flight to the one of the most beautiful islands of the world, but to be alone and feel like a superstar it made it more special."

"I just had luck, I think, that no one else was interested on this day to fly to paradise."

Simon posted the video of his rare experience on YouTube last February, but it went viral this week after being shared by some international websites.


Meanwhile, PAL management is yet to release statement on the said viral video.

Starbucks, former barista debunk 'dead mouse in coffee' issue

MANILA, Philippines - A former barista of Starbucks debunked the 'dead mouse in a coffee' issue which went viral recently.

Starbucks barista debunks 'dead mouse in coffee' issue
Marco Carlo Calibara, a former barista of Starbucks says it is impossible for a rat to sneak inside a coffee cup.
Photo Credit: Facebook/Marco Carlo Calibara and abc7chicago.com

In a lengthy post on Facebook, Marco Carlo Calibara who claimed to worked in the said company for three years said the alleged incident is unlikely to happen as the coffee shop is following strict quality standards.

"Unang-una, Ate, WALA KAMING KUSINA, ginagawa namin yung drinks nyo sa harap ninyo ng may sinusunod na beverage quality standards. Kahit subukan kong maglasing para mas dibdibin yung hinanaing mo eh hindi ko maintindihan kung saan ka kumuha ng apog para ipagpilitan yang katangahang pakulo mo," Calibara said.

Calibara also questioned how the mouse will get into the coffee since the the chain has meticulous process of serving drinks. He points out that all Starbucks use high-powered blenders which would have resulted in anything inside the blender chopped to pieces and would have made the coffee red with blood and look like an order of Red Velvet Frappuccino.

"Ang malaking tanong: Paano, PAANO mapupunta yung bubwit na yun doon?? Mas malabo pa sa sabaw ng pusit na sa process ng pag gawa ng drink sya mapupunta — Oh sige, isipin nalang natin na na blend yun ate tulad ng kathang isip na pakulo mo, HELLO?! High-powered yung mga Blenders namin (Vitamix / BlendTec ) sa store, at kahit cellphone mo, oh kamay mo eh kayang durugin no'n kaya wag kang ano dyan! Ano, may pag Matrix na sa pag iwas sa blades ng blender?! Damn bubwit got them skills, eh?!?"

Here's his full post to debunk the allegation against Starbucks:

I've worked with Starbucks for more than 3 years and this is my opinion Re: the issue, (Tataglish-in ko nlang para...
Posted by Marco Carlo Calibara on Thursday, January 28, 2016

On Tuesday, the complainant named Jessica shared that she already drank half of her drink from the world-famous coffee branch in Mandaluyong when she noticed the dead mouse.

VIDEO: Customer allegedly finds dead mouse in her Starbucks coffee

Jessica reported the incident to the Philippine National Police (PNP). On Thursday, the Health and Sanitation Office of the city immediately took action and sent their staff to conduct an investigation at the said branch.

Meanwhile, upon consulting a doctor, Jessica was diagnosed to have been suffering acute gastroenteritis and leptospirosis.

Starbucks Philippines in a statement revealed that they are currently conducting an investigation on the incident.

“We want everyone who visits our stores to enjoy their visit, and we take such claims very seriously. Ensuring all our products meet Starbucks high quality assurance standards is a top priority, and we are actively investigating this customer’s concern, “ Starbucks Philippines said.

Thursday, 28 January 2016

3 ways to increase retirement fund in addition to SSS pension

MANILA, Philippines - Last January 14, 2016, President Benigno Aquino III released a veto message in response to House Bill No. 5842 which proposed a Php2,000 across-the-board increase on the SSS pension. Around two million Filipino pensioners would have benefitted from the approval of this bill.

3 ways to increase retirement fund in addition to SSS pension


However, a Php 2,000 increase will cut the fund life of the SSS by 13 years, according to SSS officers Marissu Bugante and George Ongkeko Jr. This means that those who will be retiring after 2029 could have faced the risk of receiving no pension at all.

The highest monthly pension an employee can receive is around Php 13,000; the lowest being Php 1,200. The Php 2,000 hike will be beneficial to pensioners but even the highest monthly pension won’t serve as a sustainable retirement fund if you take into consideration the inflation rate in the country.

SSS pension serves as extended financial assistance. It is not meant to be a person’s entire retirement fund. As early as now, it is best for Filipinos to look for multiple streams to fund their retirement.

Here are 3 income supplements to SSS pensions:

1. Savings Accounts

The greatest benefit a savings account provides is liquidity. Liquidity is the measure of the amount of cash a person or organization has to meet short-term obligations. In simple terms, it’s how easy an entity can convert its assets into cash. Unlike real estate where it can take years to sell a property and earn money, a savings or checking account provides outright cash, thus being highly liquid.

It is important that come retirement, Filipinos have a well-padded savings account to meet immediate and emergency expenses. However, too much of everything can also be bad, and it is suggested to only store around 6 months’ worth of living expenses in highly liquid accounts. If the bulk of your money is in liquid investments, you run the risk of losing money due to inflation since Philippine savings accounts only provide an annual return between 0.25 and 1%.

2. Real estate properties

Filipinos prefer to invest in real estate than stocks and bonds. 70% of Filipinos own their homes, according to a survey conducted by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

Real estate is another source to generate income, be it from renting, buying-and-selling, and long-term investing. Since real estate is a big-ticket item, earnings from property renting and selling can be a good source of income come retirement. Compared to the Php 13,000 monthly pension limit, earnings from real estate can surpass said pension.

3. Paper Assets

One basis that most Filipinos do not leverage the potential income from paper assets is that as of 2014, there were only 640,645 investor accounts in the Philippine Stock Exchange according to Atty. Roel Refran, its Chief Operating Officer.

Paper assets include stocks and bonds, and they are one of the best ways to reach one’s retirement goals. Unlike savings account when annual returns are limited to 1% or less, returns on investment (ROI) from paper assets can vary from 3% (lower-risk investments such as bonds) to as high as 40% or more (higher-risk investments such as stocks). Paper assets enable investors to beat inflation and grow their net worth at a faster rate. However, it’s best to note that the most profitable investments pose high risks, and investing blindly can lead to losses. It’s also worth noting that stocks and similar investments are best for the long-term, which make them ideal for stashing away your retirement funds.

Marvin Germo, author of the Stock Smarts series of books, advises investors to “never invest money they cannot afford to lose” because investments are not guaranteed. While this is the case, you can reap high returns if you put make informed investments based on data and situational analysis.

To maximize your retirement fund, it’s best to leave your money in investments for a minimum of 5 years, and not to touch it until your retirement. This allows you to ride out any market fluctuations and keep growing your money over the long term.

The importance of a retirement fund

Many look forward to retiring because that’s the perfect time to pursue their hobbies and simply enjoy life. Retirement is when you have free time in your hands. But with more free time, you run the risk of spending more, and so you need a healthy retirement fund.

Having a retirement fund allows retirees to live their dreams, whether it’s retiring on a beach or enjoying daily lunches with amigas at the nearby mall. With the Php 13,000 monthly pension limit, it can be difficult to live out one’s dream retirement, so it’s important that one starts saving and investing early on using the three alternatives above.

This article is an updated version of a post at MoneyMax.ph. - Kyle Kam/The Summit Express

VP candidate Leni Robredo meets husband’s look-alike

MANILA, Philippines- Camarines Sur 3rd District Congresswoman and vice presidential candidate Leni Robredo has finally met her “long-lost son” during a visit to Asingan, Pangasinan.

Vice Presidential candidate Leni Robredo and her "long-lost son" Tyrone Lopez
Vice Presidential candidate Leni Robredo and her "long-lost son" Tyrone Lopez
Leni posted a photo of her with her late husband Jesse Robredo’s look-alike Tyrone Lopez on her Facebook on Wednesday, January 27. In the caption, she wrote: “Found my long lost son in Asingan, Pangasinan.This is Tyrone and they call him Jesse Robredo in school. And with very good reason.”

Found my long lost son in Asingan, PangasinanThis is Tyrone and they call him Jesse Robredo in school. And with very good reason
Posted by Leni Gerona Robredo on Wednesday, January 27, 2016

With almost 4,000 likes and more than 100 shares on Facebook, several netizens couldn’t help but point out the uncanny resemblance of Lopez with former Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo. Well-loved by the public and known for his “tsinelas” leadership, the late public servant was a recipient of the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service in 2000, which is Asia’s equivalent of the Novel prize.

In 2012, Jesse tragically died in a plane crash while on his way to watch his daughter’s swimming competition in Naga City.

On October 5, 2015, Leni announced her vice-presidential bid in a gathering at Kalayaan Hall of Club Filipino. President Benigno Aquino III, Liberal party standard bearer and presidential candidate Mar Roxas, Leni’s three daughters as well as party supporters attended the historical event.

Although Leni and her three daughters were initially against a vice presidential run, she revealed that she can’t refuse the call to serve.

"We asked ourselves what Jesse would do if he were the one facing this challenge. We knew what Jesse's answer would be. No matter how difficult, he won't say turn down pleas for help,” Leni said in a statement. -Mini/The Summit Express

VIDEO: Customer allegedly finds dead mouse in her Starbucks coffee

MANILA, Philippines- A Starbucks customer was horrified after discovering a lifeless mouse in a coffee she purchased from a Starbucks Coffee shop in Addition Hills branch in Mandaluyong City on Tuesday, January 26.

mouse-starbucks
A Starbucks customer allegedly found a peculiar ingredient in her coffee.
PHOTO CREDIT: Screengrab from YouTube/Juicy Minds
According to the complainant under the alias Jessa, she and her friends ordered food and beverage from the said branch at around 9pm. After a few hours, the group decided to leave the store and head home. Jessa opted to take her drinks out since she hadn’t finished it.

On her way home, Jessa noticed a hard object in her drink and opened the lid to see what’s inside. To her surprise, Jessa found a dead mouse floating in her drink.

“Pagka-stir ko, doon ko nakita yung daga,” she told ABS-CBN News.

(After I stirred it, that’s when I saw the mouse.)

This prompted Jessa to call her friends who then accompanied her to report the incident at the said branch. However, the branch manager reportedly denied that the lifeless mouse came from their store. The branch manager insisted that the store is clean since they have a sanitation permit. They were even told to just come back if something happens.

Because the issue wasn’t resolved, Jessa then proceeded to file an incident report at the Mandaluyong Philippine National Police (PNP).

The Health and Sanitation Office of the City Health Department of Mandaluyong immediately took action and sent their staff to conduct an investigation at the said branch the next morning. Although the staff had a mission order, the management of Starbucks branch didn’t allow them to inspect the kitchen of the store.

In a statement, Starbucks Philippines revealed that they are currently conducting an investigation on the incident.

“We want everyone who visits our stores to enjoy their visit, and we take such claims very seriously. Ensuring all our products meet Starbucks high quality assurance standards is a top priority, and we are actively investigating this customer’s concern, “ Starbucks Philippines said in a statement.

Watch the video report below.


-Mini/The Summit Express

Hit-and-run incident in BGC now settled - report

MANILA, Philippines- A video of a hit-and-run incident involving drivers of a Kymco scooter and a Toyota Innova (ACA-9130) at the Bonifacio Global City at around 10 am on Tuesday, January 26 went viral on social media after it was shared by Nic Uyliapco on the Facebook page of Top Gear Philippines.

A video of a hit-and-run incident at BGC
A video of a hit-and-run incident at BGC went viral on social media.
Screengrab from Facebook/Top Gear Philippines
In the video, the driver of the Innova vehicle was spotted hurriedly leaving the scene and failing to give any kind of help to the driver of the scooter he allegedly hit. As a result, social media users slammed the driver for not taking responsibility for his action.

According to an article by TopGear.com.ph, lawyer Haydee Chavez, the owner of the Innova vehicle, has contacted them to shed light on the incident. Chavez said that their family driver Edgardo Hurna, 53, was driving their vehicle when the incident occurred. Hurna informed the family about the incident as there were visible scratches on the bumper of the vehicle.

However, it was only after they saw the viral video of the incident that they realized the severity of situation.

Speaking to TopGear, Chavez said: “After seeing the video, we immediately went to the police station with the vehicle and our driver to report the incident. We are willing to face the consequences of what happened, and settle with the motorcycle rider.”

Although Hurna was described by Chavez as a “seasoned” driver, the former panicked and escaped the scene as a knee-jerk reaction since it was the first time for him to be involved in such incident.

Hurna voluntarily surrendered to the Taguig Traffic Bureau (TTB) on Thursday, January 28.

Meanwhile, the victim identified as Vijay Nagale sustained swollen knee and ankle as well as multiple abrasions. The Indian expatriate who is a director at Alcatel-Lucent revealed that he has no plans of filing a complaint against the Innova driver.

"All I wanted was for the driver to get out of the vehicle and help me lift my motorcycle, as I had a hard time doing so because of the injury,” Nagale said.

“I wasn't really looking to file a formal complaint or whatever. I'm a foreigner here, and I don't really want any trouble,” he added.

Nagale also clarified that he wasn’t hit by the Innova vehicle.

“I wasn't hit by the Innova because the moment I saw that it was about to hit me, I let go of my bike, which slid and hit the front part of the vehicle,” he explained.

Police Officer 3 Antonio Sinampan of the TTB said that Hurna would only get a traffic violation ticket due to reckless imprudence resulting in damage to property since the victim hasn’t filed a complaint.

Watch the video of the incident.
HIT AND RUN
Check this out. This is how shameless and irresponsible drivers are these days. Hitting someone and fleeing in broad daylight. Driver of TOYOTA INNOVA with plate number ACA-9130, we hope you get to watch this video and read all the comments. Not only did you hit one motorcyclist, you sideswiped another one as you escaped. Shame on you. (Video from Nic Uyliapco)
Posted by TOP GEAR PHILIPPINES on Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Wednesday, 27 January 2016

PBA Finals Game 5 results: San Miguel stays alive against Alaska

MANILA, Philippines - The San Miguel Beermen won Game 5 in overtime against Alaska Aces, 86-73 to extend their best-of-seven PBA Philippine Cup finals showdown on Wednesday, January 27, 2016 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

June Mar Fajardo
June Mar Fajardo makes surprise comeback in PBA Finals Game 5. Photo Credit: Inquirer.net
San Miguel gave Alaska its first consecutive back-to-back losses of finals to make a 3-2 lead.

SMB's Arwind Santos finally comes alive, scoring 22 points, 16 rebounds.

The reigning back-to-back MVP June Mar Fajardo, who missed the first four games of the PBA Finals, made his surprise return from a knee injury late in the first quarter of fifth game.

Top Performing Schools, performance of schools Pharmacist board exam January 2016

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) officially announced on Wednesday that 1,487 out of 2,710 (54.87%) passed the Pharmacist board exam given by the Board of Pharmacy in the cities of Manila, Baguio, Cebu, Davao and Iloilo this January 2016.

RELATED RESULTS
List of Passers: January 2016 Pharmacist board exam results
Top 10 List: UP-Manila grads dominate January 2016 Pharmacist board exam

PRC named Saint Louis University (SLU) as the top performing school in the January 2016 Pharmacist board exam with 98.24 passing rate (167 out of 170 passed ) per Resolution No. 2010-547 series of 2010.

performance of schools Pharmacist board exam January 2016


The performance of schools in the January 2016 Pharmacist Licensure Examination in alphabetical order as per R.A. 8981 otherwise known as PRC Modernization Act of 2000 Section 7(m) "To monitor the performance of schools in licensure examinations and publish the results thereof in a newspaper of national circulation" is as follows:

Top 10 List: UP-Manila grads dominate January 2016 Pharmacist board exam

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) officially released today, January 27, 2016 the full list of passers for January 2016 Pharmacist board exam. University of the Philippines (UP) - Manila graduates dominated the licensure exam occupying 5 out of 10 places.

RELATED RESULT
List of Passers: January 2016 Pharmacist board exam results

Holymn Faith Reyta Buan from UP-Manila topped the board with 92.50 percent grade. Three more topnotchers on upper 4 places came from UP-Manila - Ritchelle Abigail Paulino Mata, Martin Emmanuel Vallo Pe Benito and Amelyn Alexie Khu Gan with 92.45%, 92.13% and 91.98% respectively.

The successful examinees who garnered the ten (10) highest (TOP 10) places in the January 2016 Pharmacist board exam are the following:

RANK NAME SCHOOL RATING (%)

1 HOLYMN FAITH REYTA BUAN
UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINESMANILA
92.50

2 RITCHELLE ABIGAIL PAULINO MATA
UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINESMANILA
92.45

3 MARTIN EMMANUEL VALLO PE BENITO
UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINESMANILA
92.13

4 AMELYN ALEXIE KHU GAN
UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINESMANILA
91.98

5 LEE-ANNE VELASCO SANGLAY
SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY
91.83

6 JOYCE GEM MOSCOSO CAΓ‘ETE
UNIVERSITY OF SAN AGUSTIN
91.77

7 RANDY FRANZ GUBANTES SELIM
SAN PEDRO COLLEGE-DAVAO CITY
91.50

8 PATRICIA MARIE DE GUZMAN SIGUA
UNIVERSITY OF SANTO TOMAS
91.28

9 BART DAVID AZUCENA QUIBOD
UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINESMANILA
91.20

10 JOSEPHINE MARIE ANGELINE PANSACOLA SENGSON
OUR LADY OF FATIMA UNIVERSITYVALENZUELA
91.05
NOTHING FOLLOWS----------------------

UP-Manila grads dominate January 2016 Pharmacist board exam

5 things you need to know about 'latest health scare' Zika virus

Deemed as a wolf in sheep’s clothing, Zika virus is the world’s latest health scare. Resembling a light case of flu, Zika is a mosquito-borne virus that usually lasts less than a week. Although it causes mild illness that most people often don’t recognize, it is now suspected to cause unusual birth defect, neurological problems and other health issues.

Zika virus
The same kind of mosquito that carries dengue and chikungunya viruses carries Zika virus.
PHOTO CREDIT: Facebook/National Institutes of Health
This rare tropical disease is spreading in parts of the Caribbean and Latin America.

Here are some facts you need to know about the virus:

1. It is named after a forest in Uganda

The name Zika comes from the name of a forest in Uganda where a monkey infected by the virus was first discovered in 1947. Although it is native to tropical Africa, with outbreaks in the Pacific Islands and Southeast Asia, it emerged in Brazil last year and is already present in 21 out of 55 countries and territories across the Americas.

2. The same kind of mosquito that carries dengue and chikungunya viruses carries Zika virus.

Zika virus is transmitted through the bites of Aedes aegypti mosquito, a type of mosquito that carries other tropical diseases such as dengue, yellow and chikungunya. It is not established if it is passed from person to person yet investigators are looking at the possibility that it can be transferred via sexual intercourse.

3. Most infected people don’t get sick.

According to experts, most people infected with Zika virus don’t get sick. However, some infected people show symptoms such as fever, joint pain, rash, and red eyes, which are common symptoms of mild flu.

4. Zira infection has been linked to microcephaly.

In October last year, Brazilian health officials observed a rise in cases of microcephaly, a rare birth defect in which a newborn’s head is smaller than normal and the brain may not have properly developed, in tandem with outbreak of the virus. There are many causes of microcephaly so its link with Zika is still being investigated. Guillain-Barre, a nerve condition that can cause paralysis has also been linked to Zika virus.

5. You can protect yourself from Zika virus.

There is no vaccine or medication that will prevent or treat the virus but people can protect themselves by using insect repellents and wearing protective clothing like long sleeves and long pants. Authorities are also urging couples not to get pregnant.

-Mini/TheSummitExpress

Tuesday, 26 January 2016

IN PHOTOS: Cristine Reyes, Ali Khatibi tie the knot in Balesin seaside wedding

MANILA, Philippines- Kapamilya actress Cristine Reyes and mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Ali Khatibi have tied the knot in an intimate Christian wedding ceremony on Wednesday, January 27 at Balesin Island.

CONGRATULATIONS! Cristine Reyes and Ali Kathibi marry in Balesin
CONGRATULATIONS! Cristine Reyes and Ali Kathibi marry in Balesin
In an interview with Tonight with Boy Abunda on January 4, Reyes revealed that their wedding will be private and will be attended by the couple, the pastor, the wife of the pastor and some witnesses. Reyes also disclosed that they intend to have another wedding in Manila to celebrate with their friends.

“Magkakaro’n pa rin kami ng another wedding, later on, when everything is settled na. Kasi right now ang daming nasa plate namin ni Ali, e. May work, Amarah, new house, ang dami,” Reyes explained.

(We will have another wedding later on when everything is already settled. Because right now we have too much on our plates- our work, Amarah, new house, a lot of things.)

The 26-year-old actress recounted in her guesting at the December 8-episode of Kris TV that she and Khatibi chose to marry on January 27 since it’s the same date that they discovered their feelings for each other in 2013. Meanwhile, Balesin was their second option for the venue since they initially planned a backyard wedding at their house in ParaΓ±aque, which is still under construction.

The couple initially met in 2005 after being introduced by Hale’s vocalist Champ. Although their first meeting wasn’t memorable according to Reyes, the two crossed paths again in 2012. In September 2015, Reyes and Khatibi announced their engagement.

The two welcomed their daughter Amarah on February 8, 2015.

Check out some of their wedding photos.


A photo posted by Ara Mina πŸ’– (@realaramina) on

A photo posted by CRISTINE REYES AADIKS ACCOUNT (@aadiks) on

A photo posted by CRISTINE REYES AADIKS ACCOUNT (@aadiks) on

A photo posted by CRISTINE REYES AADIKS ACCOUNT (@aadiks) on



A video posted by CRISTINE REYES AADIKS ACCOUNT (@aadiks) on

-Mini/The Summit Express