Spider-Ham's World

DPP Issue 41 Tackles Photojournalism

2012-01-18T06:00:00.002+08:00

I got a copy of my Digital Photographer Philippines issue number 41 almost 2 weeks ago. This new issue includes a lot of tips and techniques regarding photojournalism.

DPP's issue 41 talks a lot of some topics if you are into the journalistic side of photography. There's the 11-page guide in-depth feature about photojournalism with some insights from Asian Center for Journalism at the Ateneo de Manila University.

There are also guides on how to make documentary photography from Baguio-based photographer Tommy Hafalla. There are also some stories from professional photojournalist Carsten Stormer, as he shares his experiences in war fronts and the effects it brings.

If you're planning to shoot in Intramuros, there's a travel feature about it. Have I mentioned that they also included in this issue a press release from Department of Tourism about the controversial No Shoot Policy, so there won't be any problem should you choose to shoot in the walled city.

Lito Sy also shares some tips in the Masterclass section about using only one light. There are also 20 tips to help improve your portrait photographs. One article I really liked to read is the section about how lenses work. It contains an in-depth explanation about the anatomy of lens and which lens is the right one for a photographer.

This issue also makes a full review of Canon EOS 600D and compares it with the contenders Nikon D5100 and Sony A550. There's also lens review for Canon EF 70-300mm f4-5.6L and Nikon AF-S Nikkor 200mm f2G VR. In the buyer's guide section provides some details regarding Sony SLT-A77 and SLT-A65; Canon EOS 1D Mark IV and EOS 60D; Nikon D5100 and Coolpix P7100; Sony NEX 5N, Pentax Q and Optio WG-1; and Olympus PEN E-P3

Digital Photographer Philippines number 41 is now available at your magazine stands and some book stores.

DPP Magazine Cover was scanned and watermarked for blog purposes only.

Ellen Adarna Starts 2012 with an FHM Cover

2012-01-13T18:00:00.001+08:00

Adarna is a Philippine mythical bird which causes any person to be petrified when they catch its droppings, and like her name-sake, Ellen Adarna will surely petrify a body part of the male population as she welcomes 2012 with 2 covers for FHM Philippines January cover.

Like last month's cover Sam Pinto, this will be Ellen's second cover for the famous men's magazine in the country. The last time was on December 2010. What's more exciting is that this issue has 2 covers for serious collectors.

Ellen is a regular cast of Bubble Gang and had some short stint with Survivor Philippines. Enjoy her 15 pages of her pictures.

This issue also includes a funny article on how to survive an animal attacks. There is also a topic how well the technology is keeping up with the past futuristic movies that depicts this present time. There are also some cool things you can do in case the apocalypse comes in December 21, 2012. If you do not believe in that non-sense, might as well try to follow some tips on how you can improve your personality this New Year.

There's also a timeline about the evolution of Erotic Cinema in the Philippines. You may also want to read about some of the country's 28 greatest guitarist including Pepe Smith, Marcus Adoro, RJ Jacinto and more.

Some of the babes featured in the issue are Ione Enriquez, Alex Smith, DJ Kekka and Premiere Vixen Linda Persson. FHM Magazine comes with the 2012 Calendar from San Mig Light and is available in all bookstore and magazine stands.

One more thing, I manage to snap some shots during the autograph signing at Robinson's Galleria Movieworld. Enjoy some of Ellen's shots:

One lucky kid gets a kiss from Ellen

Finally! I was able to get a snap of her smiling.

FHM January 2012 Cover was scanned and watermarked for blog purposes only.

Nikon Announces AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G

2012-01-07T12:00:00.002+08:00

Aside from the announcement of D4, as its new flagship product for DSLR cameras, Nikon also announced the release of AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G.

This new addition to the FX-format lens lineup is a fast, medium-telephoto prime lens with a focal length of 85 mm and a maximum aperture of f/1.8.

It utilizes an all new design allowing users to enjoy shooting photos, especially portraits, with pleasing blur characteristics only possible through fixed focal length lenses. This prime lens, which has a fast maximum aperture of f/1.8, is very lightweight at around 350 grams, thus carrying this lens mounted in the camera won't be a burden.

The Silent Wave Motor (SWM) that makes a quiet auto focus operations, also makes this glass compatible with entry-level Nikon DX-format DSLR cameras like D5100 and D3100, which are not equipped with auto focus drive motor.

PRIMARY FEATURES

A fast, medium-telephoto fixed focal length lens with a focal length of 85 mm and a maximum aperture of f/1.8 compatible with the Nikon FX-format
An all new optical design that enables maximum utilization of digital-SLR camera capabilities in shooting high quality images
Enables shooting of portraits with pleasing background blur characteristics only possible with a fast, medium-telephoto fixed focal length lens
Very lightweight at approximately 350 g, even with the large aperture
Equipped with a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for extremely quiet auto focusing. Auto focus shooting is also possible when the lens is used with entry-level Nikon DX-format digital-SLR cameras such as the D5100 and D3100, which are not equipped with an auto focus drive motor.
Equipped with two focus modes, M/A (auto focus with manual override) and M (manual)

This prime lens will be available by March and will have an SRP around $ 499.95 or an equivalent of Php 22,000.00. Hopefully this will be available here in the country by the middle of this year. You may check key features and full specification here.

Nikon Presents D4

2012-01-06T20:00:00.005+08:00

Nikon welcomes 2012 with the official announcement of the release of Nikon D4. D4 is a Nikon FX-format camera that is the new flagship model in their line-up of digital-SLR cameras.

The D4, which is to replace D3S, is equipped with the new Nikon FX-format CMOS image sensor and EXPEED 3, which is the latest image processing engine optimized for DSLR cameras. It also has a 16.2 mega pixel resolution which is higher compared to its predecessor which is only 12.1 mega pixel.

PRIMARY FEATURES

New Nikon FX-format CMOS image sensor
The D4 is equipped with a new Nikon FX-format CMOS image sensor (imaging size of 36.0 x 23.9 mm). The range of standard sensitivities has been expanded to ISO 100 to ISO 12800 with support for ISO 50 and additional expansion up to ISO 204800.
New EXPEED 3 image-processing engine with superior, high-speed processing capabilities
The new EXPEED 3 image-processing engine within the D4 offers better image quality and faster processing speeds for vivid color reproduction. It also suppresses noise with advanced noise-reduction processing for images captured at high sensitivities under dim lighting and still preserves definition and sharpness.
91K-pixel RGB sensor for the more accurate Advanced Scene Recognition System
The D4 is equipped with the Advanced Scene Recognition System, which supports face recognition. The new 91K-pixel (approximately 91,000 pixels) RGB sensor recognizes human faces for more frequent focus acquisition on human faces when Auto-area AF AF-area mode is used.
Faster and more accurate AF with 51 focus points
The 51 focus point AF system built into the D4 utilizes the new Advanced Multi-CAM 3500FX auto focus sensor module for faster, more accurate auto focusing that performs well under dim lighting. The 15 focus points at the center of the frame are cross-type sensors that detect phase differences both horizontally and vertically. All 51 focus points are fully functional when lenses with a maximum aperture of up to f/5.6 are used.
Multi-area Mode Full HD D-movie with three image area options
A dedicated movie-record button has been positioned near the shutter-release button for smooth starting and stopping of movie recording with a feel similar to that of still-image shooting. Full-HD movie recording at a frame size of 1920 x 1080 and frame rate of 30 fps is supported, and the H.264/MPEG-4 AVC video compression method has been adopted.
Smooth workflow from initial setup to image transfer
High-speed response with a power-up time of approximately 0.12 seconds and a release time lag of roughly 0.042 seconds. It also supports the high-speed, next-generation XQD memory cards which enables a continuous shooting frame rate of 10 fps for up to approximately 100 shots even with shooting in RAW format. The camera is also equipped with dual memory card slots, one for XQD memory cards and one for CompactFlash memory cards.
The new compact Wireless Transmitter WT-5 with simple connection to the camera (available separately)
The D4 is equipped with an Ethernet port and functions for wired LAN connections. It also supports the new WT-5 (available separately), a compact wireless transmitter that is easily connected to the camera for high-speed transfer of images over a wireless network.
Capture NX 2 Ver. 2.3 for significantly faster processing
This latest version of Nikon's image editing software is Capture NX 2 Ver. 2.3. It has faster image-processing algorithm has been adopted for much faster processing. It is now also compatible with 64-bit operating system.

Other D4 functions and features

Extremely durable shutter that has passed testing for 400,000 cycles
Magnesium alloy adopted for the very strong, durably body that is very resistant to dust and water
Effective sealing using O rings and packing make the camera more resistant to dust and water
Silent shutter-release mode for live view photography that almost completely eliminates the sounds of the mirror and shutter operation
A time-lapse photography feature, with which the camera automatically takes photos at selected intervals to record a time-lapse movie, which can be played back at 24–36,000x normal playback speed
Operation optimized for both horizontal (landscape) and vertical (portrait) shooting
Button backlights (illuminators) for increased visibility when working in dimly lit or dark situations
High-performance viewfinder, utilizing a glass pentaprism, with a frame coverage of approximately 100% (FX format) and magnification of approximately 0.7x
Four image area options for still shooting—FX (36 x 24), 5:4 (30 x 24), 1.2x (30 x 20), DX (24 x 16)—with viewfinder indicator that identifies the current image area
A 3.2-inch, approximately 921k-dot LCD monitor with reinforced glass and wide viewing angle; integration of the glass and panel reduce internal reflections
A virtual horizon that shows the degree to which the camera is tilted sideways (roll), forward or backward (pitch) with display in the monitor and viewfinder
White balance that can be adjusted in units of 10 K; white balance can be specified separately for shooting (white balance applied to images) and monitor display with still-image shooting in live view mode

According to the press release, Nikon will be exhibiting the D4 at the 2012 International CES, to be held Tuesday, January 10 through Friday, January 13 in Las Vegas, Nevada. D4 will be available late February with a suggested retail price of $ 5999.95 (body only) or roughly around Php 260,000.00. You may check full specification here.

Philippine Holidays for 2012

2012-01-02T21:00:00.002+08:00

I just got this information earlier this day. Although I am not really affected by the holidays, it might be useful to other who wants to schedule their vacation leaves.

Malacañang issued Proclamation No. 295 declaring the regular holidays, special non-working days, and a special school holiday for 2012. Here is the list of holidays and long-weekends of the Republic of the Philippines for 2012:

Regular Holidays for 2012

January 1 (Sunday) - New Year's Day
April 5 (Thursday) - Maundy Thursday
April 6 (Friday) - Good Friday
April 9 (Monday) - Araw ng Kagitingan
May 1 (Tuesday) - Labor Day
June 12 (Tuesday) - Independence Day
August 27 (Monday) - National Heroes Day
November 30 (Friday) - Bonifacio Day
December 25 (Tuesday) - Christmas Day
December 30 (Sunday) - Rizal Day

Special (Non-Working) Days

January 23 (Monday) - Chinese New Year
August 21 (Tuesday) - Ninoy Aquino Day
November 1 (Thursday) - All Saints Day
November 2 (Friday) - Additional special (non-working) day
December 31 (Monday) - Last Day of the Year

Special Holiday (for all schools)

February 25 (Saturday) - EDSA Revolution Anniversary

The proclamations declaring national holidays for the observance of Eid’l Fitr and Eidul Adha shall hereafter be issued after the approximate dates of the Islamic holidays have been determined in accordance with the Islamic calendar (Hijra) or the lunar calendar, or upon Islamic astronomical calculations, whichever is possible or convenient.

As added information here are the 6 possible long weekends that you can use to plan your vacations.

January 21-23: Chinese New Year (January 23)
April 5-9: Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Araw ng Kagitingan (April 5, 6 and 9)
August 25-27: National Heroes Day (August 27)
November 1-4: All Saint's Day (November 1-2)
November 30 - December 2: Bonifacio Day (November 30)
December 29 - 31: December 31 (New Year)

I wish I can enjoy the perks of Philippine Holidays in the near future.

Hammy's Pick: Hey Daydreamer by Somedaydream

2011-12-19T18:00:00.002+08:00

I cannot get out this song out of my system. It started with this Cornetto Disc commercial I saw on TV and then it became embedded in my mind.

So I searched the internet to find out if there is a full version of the music played in the commercial advertisement. As it turns out, it was a singer named Somedaydream sang the song entitled Hey Daydreamer.

Somedaydream is a Filipino synthpop project by singer-songwriter Rez Toledo. He is the first artist to be managed by former Hale singer Champ Lui Pio under Mecca Music which he recently founded.

I finally managed to get the music video of Hey Daydreamer. It features Anne Curtis' sister Jasmine who is really beautiful like her sister.

If you don't like the autotuned song you may want to check the acoustic version here. The only downside is you don't get to see Jasmine Curtis in this version.

Added info:

Further checking in Youtube showed that the Cornetto Disc commercial had another version. It seems that Cornetto had some universal theme in some of their product commercial. See this other version I got while checking related videos.

Parallax Dimension: Total Lunar Eclipse on Saturday Night

2011-12-09T00:00:00.001+08:00

A total lunar eclipse will take place on December 10, 2011. This will be the second of total lunar eclipse to happen this year with the first occurred on June 15.

The eclipse will be visible from all Asia and Australia. In Europe, it will be seen as the moon rises and will be seen over northwest North America as the moon sets. In the Philippines, the lunar eclipse will be visible just after sunset.

The exact contact times with Earth's umbral and penumbral shadows are listed below:

	Universal Time	Manila Time
• Penumbral Eclipse Begins:	11:33:32 UT	7:33 PM
• Partial Eclipse Begins:	12:45:42 UT	8:45 PM
• Total Eclipse Begins:	14:06:16 UT	10:06 PM
• Greatest Eclipse:	14:31:49 UT	10:31 PM
• Total Eclipse Ends:	14:57:24 UT	10:57 PM
• Partial Eclipse Ends:	16:17:58 UT	12:17 AM
• Penumbral Eclipse Ends:	17:30:00 UT	1:30 AM

I have taken the opportunity of converting Universal Time (UT/GMT) to Manila time (GMT +8). If weather permits and I get lucky I will be able to take picture of this astrological phenomenon. You may get additional details about the eclipse here.

Sam Pinto Sizzles as FHM Cover for the Second Time

2011-12-08T18:00:00.004+08:00

Don't worry or bother about the sudden cold weather brought by the December wind. Sam Pinto will make it warm for you as she graces FHM Philippines December issue.

This will be the second time the FHM's 2011 Number 1 Sexiest Woman will be in the cover of the magazine. The first time she did was on July 2010 that came with the 2010 100 Sexiest Women in the World. You will enjoy sixteen pages of her sexy pictures on this holiday issue. (Yes! I did count them)

It seems many good things happened to her career after that. She's been playing the famous Neneng Bakit in Bubble Gang's segment titled "Pickup Lines" where she's the object of funny nonsense lines by Boy Pickup played by Ogie Alcasid.

This issue also features articles about best sports bars in metro. You might also read the skills men should have through the decades. There's also a list of 69 tunes you can use and enjoy during sexy times. One article also discusses the sudden growth of condominiums in the metropolis and it’s a good idea where to get a unit if you are planning to have one.

The issue will not be complete without hot girls featuring starter babe Laurisha Marie; December Girlfriends Kates Ocampo and Zandra Lee; and girls of FHM Camilla Bezerra Sales, Kristine Santamena, Jackie Clanton and Mia Gray. FHM December issue, that comes with a complimentary 2012 calendar, is available on all bookstore and magazine stands.

FHM December 2011 Cover was scanned and watermarked for blog purposes only.

Wide Tube 2.0: The Road

2011-12-04T06:00:00.001+08:00

It has been awhile since I have watched a movie in the movie house. I think the last one I have watched was Zombadings that I forgot to post a review.

I have been waiting for GMA Films' The Road to hit the cinemas ever since I watched a promotional segment in Kapuso Mo Jessica Soho during their Halloween Specials. As we all know Yam Laranas, who directed this was the same person behind Sigaw (2004) and its US remake The Echo (2008).

The movie was divided in a three-part story. The first one, which stars Barbie Forteza, Lexi Fernandez and Derick Monasterio, tells the story of three teenage friends who got lost in a secluded rough road during a road trip of driving lesson. After encountering a mysterious car and its passenger, it will never be the same for the three friends as some of them will be lost forever.

The second part shows the tale of two sisters, Rhian Ramos and Louise delos Reyes, getting stranded in the same road. Their fate will never be the same after meeting a stranger they think can help them. They were never seen after and reported missing and were mentioned in the first episode as a cold case for 12 years.

The final part, which features Marvin Agustin and Carmina Villaroel, a couple living near the same road with their son. The mother has a weird way of raising his son as she does not permit him to go out of the house. As husband and wife argue about family matters one night, and gave a horrible ending that left a psychological scar to the boy.

The three parts was delivered in a backward style of story telling. The third story happened more than 20 years ago, the second part, more than 10 years ago and the first one set in the present time. As the movie progresses from the first part to the next, the viewer will be able to establish the connection of the characters from the past to the present or should I say from present to the past.

I can say kudos to Carmina Villaruel and Marvin Agustin for portraying as an "imbalanced" couple or much better to describe them as "damaged" parents. There's no wonder how good they are at it since they've been in a number of psycho-suspense-thriller movies especially Agustin. Rhian Ramos is also not new on this type of movies and her portrayal of an abducted girl is really convincing. With the three teens, the acting is still somehow a little "pa-cute" except for Barbie that was able to portray her role. This movie may be a jump-off point for them to have a new style of acting aside from their usual ‘tweetums’ role. Alden Richards executed his character with only few lines but still managed to act great. Believe me, if I see this guy and he'd be like the silent person, I will distance myself from him before he does something bad.

The movie is not really frightening except for the first part with the mysterious plastic wrapped figure keeps on showing up. It seems as the movie progressed, the lighter the suspense meter goes. I think because the first part was all night, the second one was presented in an afternoon and dusk scenario while the last part showed daytime most of the scenes. Another factor that lowers the suspense is that you are able to uncover the truth as the story goes on.

I'm just a little curious how a secluded road can have a wooden gate blocking it can become a long and winding road. If it is part of the mystery, I'll leave it then. As for the plot of using ghosts getting revenge was well justified, you can really never outrun them as sooner or later they'll catch up with you and make you pay for your sins. For the plot of weird parenting, I think I've already seen this once or twice in another movie. I guess sometimes "damaged" mom and dad makes their little boy go "psycho". I'm not sure if my skill in horror-suspense movie to detect the villain is weak because I seldom watch them or Laranas was able to confuse the viewers like me with some additional characters and make it difficult to deduce who the culprit is.

If I am not mistaken, this will be the first Filipino movie I have written a review. I will give The Road a rating of 8 out of 10. Hopefully this won't be the last time I will be posting about Filipino movies. I wish there will be more local movies that is worth watching and reviewing like this one.

Nikon Announces SB-910 Speedlight Release

2011-12-01T12:00:00.002+08:00

Nikon Corporation officially announced the release of Speedlight SB-910. It is the newest high-end Nikon Speedlight.

The SB-910 is a high-end Speedlight for advanced amateur to pro photographers that gives more improvements compared to its predecessor SB-900. Some improvements include smoother operation, greater illumination precision, and hard color filter adoption. SB-910 fully supports the photography of advance amateurs and professionals who needs to make the most of light to achieve their individual interest.

SB-910 primary features

A refined user interface for smoother operation.
Users can now quickly access custom settings using the new MENU button. In addition, the graphical user interface (GUI) has been improved to offer simpler application of settings for all operations.
Three illumination patterns for use according to the scene
The SB-910 offers selection from three illumination patterns (standard, even, center-weighted), allowing users to choose the pattern most appropriate for the scene. Illumination precision has also been increased.
Automatic detection of hard color filters attached to the front of the flash head
The SB-910 supports hard color filters because they are more durable, stand up better to the heat generated by the flash head, and are easier to use than the gel color filters supported by its predecessor. One incandescent filter and one fluorescent filter are supplied with the SB-910.

Key Features

Fully compatible with Nikon Creative Lighting System
Three illumination patterns (standard/even/center-weighted), with increased light distribution accuracy, are available to match every shooting environment
Automatically detects Nikon FX and Nikon DX formats and selects suitable light distribution angles
Power zoom function covers wide 17-200 mm (in FX format) or 12-200 mm (in DX format) zoom ranges
AF-assist illumination, compatible with multi-point AF system, covers wide 17-135 mm focal length range
New MENU button enables quick access to custom settings, while improved LCD panel GUI (graphical user interface) enhances operability
Durable and heat-resistant, easy-to-use, hard-type color filters (fluorescent or incandescent) included
Automatically detects color filter types and transmits filter information to camera for optimum white balance setting
Guide number: 34/111.5 (m/ft.) at 35 mm and 53/173.9 (m/ft.) at 200 mm (FX-format, standard illumination pattern, ISO 100, 20°C/68°F)
Minimum recycling time: approx. 2.3 seconds with Ni-MH batteries
Automatically detects increases in flash head temperature and controls recycling time accordingly, thus preventing overheating
Firmware updates via Nikon digital SLR cameras
Compatible with High-Performance Battery Pack SD-9 and Power Bracket Unit SK-6/6A
Optional Water Guards WG-AS1 (for D3 series), WG-AS2 (for D300 series) and WG-AS3 (for D700) protect camera accessory shoe contact when SB-910 is mounted on Nikon digital SLR cameras

Nikon SB-910 will be available by middle of December just in time for your late Christmas shopping. Based on the news, this Speedlight will cost around USD 550. If I am not mistaken, with the release of SB-910, we can expect SB-900 to cost lower. You may check SB-910's full specification here.

McDonalds is Giving PHP 50,000 Everyday!

2011-11-28T08:00:00.002+08:00

McDonalds' is giving away Fifty Thousand Pesos (PHP 50,000). Want to know how?

1. Promo period is from Nov. 16 to Dec. 15, 2011.

2. Order one (1) Extra Value Meal with any Coke product via McDelivery. One Extra Value Meal with Coke product = one raffle entry. A customer can order as many Extra Value Meals per transaction to earn more raffle entries.

3. Extra Value Meals are as follows:

Big Mac Meal
1-pc. Chicken McDo w/ Rice Meal
Quarter Pounder w/ Cheese Meal
2-pc. Chicken McDo w/ Rice Meal
Double Cheeseburger Meal
1-pc. Chicken w/ Spaghetti Meal
Filet-O-Fish Meal
6-pc. McNuggets w/ Rice Meal
McChicken Sandwich Meal
6-pc. McNuggets w/ Fries Meal
Cheeseburger Meal
1-pc. Chicken McDo w/ Fries Meal
Burger McDo Meal
2-pc. Chicken McDo w/ Fries Meal

4. The Extra Value Meal should come with the following drinks: any regular (12oz), medium (16oz) or large (20oz) size of Coke, Coke Light, Coke Zero or Sprite; Nestea Iced Tea, Eight O'Clock Orange Juice and Coke McFloat.

5. Promo does not include Breakfast Meals orders between 3:50AM and 10:20AM, McSaver Meals: Crispy Chicken Fillet Meal, Crispy Chicken Sandwich Meal, McSpaghetti Meal or Extra Value Meal with Pineapple Juice as drink.

6. Customer order should be placed within the McDelivery Website, Call Center (8-6236, 34-86236, 22-86236, 87-86236, 62-86236 and 77-86236) or SMS (0917-5116236 Cabanatuan only) to qualify.

7. Daily raffle draws will include valid transactions received until 11:59pm of each day within the promo period (Nov. 16 to Dec. 15, 2011).

8. The electronic raffle draws will be held at Starcom MediaVest Group Office, 25/F Tower 2, The Enterprise Center, Paseo de Roxas corner Ayala Avenue, Makati City.

9. There will be a total of 30 winners during the promo period, 1 winner per day for 30 days. Each daily draw winner will get fifty thousand pesos (P50,000). The applicable withholding taxes will be shouldered by Golden Arches Development Corporation.

10. Daily winners will be posted at facebook.com/mcdo.ph.

11. The winner will be notified through a phone call and registered mail. To claim the prize, the winner must present the McDonald's registered mail and a valid ID (ie SSS ID, company ID, driver's license, passport). The winner should also provide a TIN number for the purpose of remitting taxes to the government.

12. Winners may claim their prizes after 10 working days from the receipt of the registered mail.

13. Metro Manila winners can claim their prizes at Starcom MediaVest Group Office, 25/F Tower 2, The Enterprise Center, Paseo de Roxas corner Ayala Avenue, Makati City, during office hours only (10am-12nn and 1pm to 5pm). Furthermore, winners cannot claim prizes during Non-working Holidays. Unclaimed prizes by February 15, 2012 shall be deemed forfeited. For provincial winners, prizes will be sent to the delivery hub who serviced the customer/winner. The McDonald's Restaurant Manager will issue the check to the winner.

14. The prizes are non-transferable.

15. All prizes not claimed by Feb. 15, 2012, 5pm, will be forfeited.

16. Employees of Golden Arches Development Corporation, their branches, advertising, PR and media agencies, call center, suppliers and contractors and their relatives up to second degree of affinity or consanguinity are disqualified from joining the promo.

Click here to see who became PHP50,000 richer today.

Wide Tube Sneak Peak: Skyfall is Bond 23

2011-11-04T08:00:00.007+08:00

Finally, it has been confirmed that the 23rd Bond movie will be Skyfall. The project was initially set to begin in 2010, but due to MGM's financial trouble that year; it was temporarily put on hold.

Berenice Marlohe, Daniel Craig and Naomie Harris during the photocall in London.

James Bond will be portrayed by Daniel Craig for the third time. His leading ladies are French actress Berenice Marlohe and Naomie Harris. I know Harris starred in 28 Days later opposite Cillian Murphy and was also seen in Pirates of the Caribbean as the witch doctor Tia Dalma.

The movie casts include Judi Dench as M, as head of MI6; Ralph Fiennes (more known as Voldemort), Albert Finney and Javier Bardem as the villain.

The movie will be directed by Sam Mendes, who directed the award winning American Beauty in 1999. It is scheduled to be released on October 26, 2012.

I practically grew up with the character since my father had a betamax collection of the series from Sean Connery, Roger Moore, George Lazenby and Timothy Dalton. Lazenby is the least famous while Connery for me is the most famous Bond actor. After Dalton, we did not have the collection with Pierce Brosnan's Bond movies good thing my brother abroad took the opportunity to get the Collector's Edition of for my father. We have now the complete 20 movies up to Brosnan's.

The movie never fails to amaze me with the secret agent's awesome gadgetry. I cannot wait for the movie to be released. I hope that Skyfall will show new cars, tricks and gadgets that has become a legacy of every Bond film.

The Walking Dead: Save The Last One

2011-11-02T12:00:00.000+08:00

The episode begins with Shane shaving off his head in the bathroom. Next scene was Shane and Otis running along the school corridor while chased by the walkers.

Meanwhile in the highway, with Carol crying in the RV, Daryl decided to take a walk along the woods to check and try to look for Sophia. Andrea decided to tag along with him. In the woods he shared some experience when he was nine that he was lost too and believe that Sophia can also be found.

Back at the school, Shane and Otis are on top of the lockers decided to split. Shane went to the window near the bleachers while Otis used the locker room windows. Shane breaks his leg while jumping the 20 foot window after being attacked before he can jump.

Lori is now wondering if it would be better to let Carl die than live in this world. She thinks that this world is no longer for children with the situation of the zombie apocalypse. Rick then tells her that she even asked Jenner (the CDC doctor) to let them out during TS-19 episode. Carl wakes up and tells her about the deer before getting into seizure. It seems that his brain is not getting enough blood. Although Hershel do not recommend of getting blood from Rick, he insisted.

Shane and Otis found a way to run from the zombies but with Shane’s injury it seems they won't be able to outrun them.

Daryl and Andrea found a walker hanging by a tree, it turns out when it was bitten it tried to commit suicide but the infection already took effect. (It seems that walkers do not need air to breath since it was hanging with the rope tied in its neck). Daryl then shoots the hanging walker and cited that he wasted an arrow since he can't retrieve it. Upon returning to the highway camp, Dale returns Andrea's gun and tries to make amends with her.

T-Dog and Glenn arrives at the farm and Patricia stitches the wound. They found out the antibiotics was used by a friend (Merle) for a venereal disease. She jokingly tells T-Dog that Merle's clap was the best thing that happened to him since the meds really helped him.

Glenn started talking to Maggie about what is happening.

Rick tells Lori about the deer Carl was talking about when he woke-up earlier. He then tells Lori that it's a sign Carl deserves to live since he still sees the beauty of life in the deer amidst the zombie thing that is happening around them. They then let Hershel proceed with the surgery when Shane comes just in time but Otis is not with him. He then tells that he didn't make it.

Carl was then operated and in stable condition. The scene is now back to Shane shaving his head after taking a bath. It is then revealed that he purposely shot Otis so that the walkers will attack him and he will get ample time to escape.

I am not sure if what Shane did was justifiable. It is now a big debate among fans if it was acceptable or not. I believe he did it to save Carl and some might say that Otis deserve to die because he shot Carl. I believe there was other way to survive and he should have let Otis decide for that option.

We are still waiting for Sophia to show up in this episode and it seems Daryl still have some high hopes that she will make it. And it's somehow funny that some people were able to compose a poem before hanging themselves but still ends up as a walker. The short poem was "Got bit, fever hit, world gone to shit, might as well quit". As Daryl say that the idiot did not have the courage to pull the trigger or he does have a gun or time to look for a gun and thinks that the easiest way to take his life is by hanging.

Another quote that I like to include in this episode review is the one included in a painting in the bathroom which says "Whenever you wonder, whenever you roam; be happy and healthy and glad to come home." It was shown on the opening scene and somehow a quote directed to Shane.

Hammy's Pick: My Unforgettable Horror Movies

2011-10-30T06:00:00.010+08:00

Halloween is fast approaching and Kabayan Noli de Castro no longer has the Magandang Gabi Bayan Halloween special episodes to scare the shit out of us. What better to do than to list the movies that scared the shit out of me and left a great impression after watching them.

Here's my pick of unforgettable horror movies:

SHAKE, RATTLE AND HORROR

This is considered the longest Filipino horror movie series with 12 installments currently. Later installment of the series released on 2005 and the succeeding films relied heavily on special effects instead of prosthetics. These later sets of the series do not have the scare factor the first set had. It seems that the new episodes shown are lame and cannot even scare a little girl anymore.

I only have three episodes from the earlier movies that are remarkable to me. Here they are:

Pridyider Episode from Shake Rattle and Roll (1984)

This episode features a 16-year old Janice de Belen as part of the family who just moved into a new home with a mysterious refrigerator left by the previous occupants. It turns out that the refrigerator is a haunted one since it was used to store chopped body parts by the previous occupant. One remarkable scene was when Janice's character cools herself in front of the ref.

Aswang from Shake Rattle and Roll 2 (1990)

This story is about a girl (Manilyn Reynes) brought to a far province by her best friend to spend vacation. Turns out that the village was having a feast and she was the main course that will be offered as a virgin sacrifice. This episode set of stereotyping mentality to people who came to Manila to study. It has somehow elevated the "promdi" status at campus to a different level. There was even a rumor that this episode was based on a real story.

Nanay from Shake Rattle and Roll 3 (1991)

Who will not forget the Undin from the lake? I admit she was destructive and dangerous with that avocado shake coming from her mouth and melt anything that comes into contact with it. You can't blame her for that since they did break her eggs. She was just a mother getting her revenge.

HALIMAW (1986) aka HALIMAW SA BANGA

This film which stars Lotlot de Leon made me afraid of big jars when I was kid. After the Banga consumed enough bodies, it decided to get out of and spread more terror (if too much face powder is horrible, the halimaw sa bang must be doing it great with her face). The smoke and lights effect for the final scene was somehow frightening during that time. Good lighting effects are still one factor for a good horror movie today.

REGAL SHOCKER: THE MOVIE (1990) - APARADOR EPISODE

Regal Shocker was a weekly horror TV series aired in GMA-7 in the early 90's. It was pitted against IBC 13's Pinoy Thriller. Regal Films decided to make a movie out of it like SSR with 3 episodes in one movie. Aparador episode tells the story of girl (Ruffa Gutierrez) who rented a new apartment. At night she dreams of a girl who was trapped in the closet. It is then revealed that a little girl (a young Judy Ann Santos) was suffocated and died inside the closet when her brother trapped her as a prank. Now her ghost wants vengeance and set an eye to Ruffa's character. Aparador gave me the creeps when I sleep in my room because it has a wooden closet. I always make sure it’s always closed before I turn off the lights.

FENG SHUI (2004)

This is the only Kris Aquino movie that I enjoyed watching. The story centers on Joy (Aquino) that she found. The bagua brought good luck to her but for every windfall that comes there's a corresponding death to a person close to her. I can't forget how Aling Viring surprised Joy from behind the casket and also Lotus Feet become a household name.

CHILD'S PLAY (1998)

Who will never forget Chuckie? Who would have taught that a doll as cute as him can be sinister and dangerous? This film was so successful it spawned 4 sequels with the last 2 (Bride of Chucky and Seed of Chucky) becoming more of a horror-comedy film. The movie also greatly influenced local horror shows in using dolls as possessed inanimate object. There was Chaka doll, from a horror TV series from GMA and Chelsea from "Patayin sa Sindak si Barbara" as serialized by ABS-CBN.

THE RING (1998)

The movie that started the Asian horror movies entry to the international movie scene. The film was even adapted to a US version in 2002. The movie was a big hit not only in Japan but all over Asia although it was just shown a year later if I am not mistaken. I can never forget Sadako and her deathly stare. The Ring is another one of the movies that I cannot watch alone even if I have watched it already.

THE EXORCIST (2000 Release)

The spider walk in the stairs, floating in bed, sudden appearance of demonic face in the wall and the ever famous 360 degree rotation of the head. All of these scenes can only be trademark of The Exorcist. Originally released in 1973, it was then theatrically re-released on 2000 with some added footages that was never shown on the original run. I still have some goose bumps when I watch this movie today.

THE EXORCISM OF EMILY ROSE (2005)

Although this movie utilized common horror elements, the trial scene which was the major part of the show made it boring. The only impact the movie made to me is to make sure that I am not awake alone during 3 o'clock in the morning. It introduced to me the idea of 3 in the morning as the hour of the devil - a mockery of 3 o'clock in the afternoon which signifies the death of Christ.

There are other horror movies that I have watched but they do not give me the goose bump or the scare factor to put them on the list. But in case there will be a horror movie in the future that will become remarkable to me, I will make sure to write a review for it.

How about you? What's your favorite horror movie? Hit the comments section.

The Walking Dead: Bloodletting

2011-10-26T12:00:00.001+08:00

Bloodletting is the second episode The Walking Dead season 2. The episode begins with a flash back scene when Rick was shot. It shows how Lori having some issues with Rick and their marriage somehow on the rocks. Shane arrives telling her that Rick is in surgery after being shot. Lori then tells Shane what happened to her father.

Back to present time, Rick and Shane is shown running with another man, later identified as Otis, the man who accidentally shot Carl. (Too bad they did not get the deer). Otis leads them to the Hershel Greene's farm who turns out to be a doctor. Carl was immediately attended to and fortunate enough that his father shares the same blood type.

The other group who is heading back to the highway even though hearing the gun shot decided to continue looking for Sophia. Dale noticed that T-Dog may be having blood infection from the cut he had from the previous episode. They tried searching the vehicles for some antibiotics.

Rick then proceeded in giving blood to Carl as Hershel gets one of the bullet fragments inside him. Carl is furious asking that Lori has to be here while this is happening. Hershel orders him to stay since the boy might need another transfusion. Turns out that Carl will need to undergo surgery because one of the fragments might have caused internal bleeding. For the operation to be successful they need some medical supplies that can only be found on an abandoned high school that was turned into an emergency medical facility. Otis volunteered to guide Shane since he was a medical volunteer.

While the other group decided to call off the search since it's already late. At the highway T-Dog is getting impatient and tells Dale that they were left since they are the weakest in the group. T-Dog then tells him that they have to leave. Turns out that he has fever due to the infection.

On the way back to the highway, Andrea is attacked by a wandering walker and saved by Maggie Greene who then picks up Lori and delivers the news of the accident. Upon getting back to the highway, Daryl provided some of his brother's illegal drug for T-Dog's infection. They planned to go to the Greene farm but Carol won't agree since Sophia might come back and find them gone. They then decided to leave the RV with a message and supplies with Daryl and Dave to be left with the RV.

Rick and Lori later finds out that Hershel is a vet and somehow got disappointed but puts their hope in him since they don't have a choice. Otis and Shane discovered that the facility is still plagued with walkers. They had them distracted with flares from the police car. Upon getting the necessary supplies and getting out they were chased by the walkers (damn these walkers can run!) and were trapped inside the school.

The second episode introduces new characters like the Greene family, Hershel, and his daughter Maggie; Otis (or the idiot who shot my son as called by Lori) and his girlfriend Patricia and 2 others not yet named. Hershel Greene, played by Scott Wilson (if you're a CSI fanatic, you'll recognize him as Catherine Willows' father Sam Braun), is somehow optimistic about the plague. I like his philosophy about waiting for a cure. It seems that he has somebody close to him he wanted to be cured. This might be a spoiler but we'll never know what this new character will bring to the group.

My quote for the episode was delivered by Hershel saying "Mankind has been fighting plague from the start. We get our behinds kicked for a while then we bounce back. It's nature correcting itself, restoring some balance" which Rick replies that he wish he can believe that and I agree with him. Hopefully there will be a cure but not to be seen now so that the series can go on.

The episode ended again with another set of questions. We're still wondering where the hell is Sophia? Will Shane and Otis make it out of the school? Will Carl make it to the rest of the series season? Too bad the deer was wasted then.

World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria

2011-10-23T06:00:00.008+08:00

Last October 21, Chris Metzen officially announced the next expansion set for World of Warcraft will be Mists of Pandaria. This information was released during the recently concluded BlizzCon 2011.

So what's in store for the upcoming expansion set? Here are some of the things we will be excited to wait for.

New Continent to Explore: Pandaria

Hidden in fog since the world was damaged more than ten thousand years ago, the realm of Pandaria has remained unscathed by war up until now. Among the new zones that will be needed to be explored are The Wandering Isle, The Jade Forest, Valley of the Four Winds, Kun-Lai Summit, Townlong Steppes and Vale of Eternal Blossoms.

New Race: Meet the Pandaren!

Looks like Po is not really alone after all as depicted in the ending scene of Kung-Fu Panda 2. The Pandaren has a noble history that can be traced thousands of years ago, before even the sundering of the world. They were once under tyrant warlords known as Mogu, but through a unique from of unarmed combat they were able to free themselves and established an empire that existed for thousands of years. They are known to be excellent in cooking and an exceptional brewmaster.

The Pandaren is not really new in Blizzard universe since it had already appeared in Warcraft III: Frozen Throne. With the new expansion set, we will be able to learn more about this new race.

Another best thing about this new race is this is the first neutral faction race to be introduced ever since World of Warcraft was released on November 2004. This means the Pandaren character will have the option to select if they will side with either the Alliance or the Horde.

The Pandaren will have the following racial traits:
* Epicurean - Increases the stat benefits from food by 100%
* Gourmand - Cooking skill increased by 15.
* Inner Peace - Your rested experience bonus lasts twice as long. (I think this is homage to the the movie)
* Bouncy - You take 50% less falling damage. (It's so true with the body fat they have, lol!)
* Quaking Palm - You touch a secret pressure point on an enemy target, putting it to sleep for 3 seconds.

New Class: The Monk

Together with the new race, a new class - The Monk will be introduced as a class that can be selected by all races from both factions with the exception of Goblin and Worgen. Pandaren masters have chosen to share their ancient martial arts with young fighters in both the Alliance and Horde. Harnessing their inner strength and potent "chi" energy, Monks are extremely capable in every role: damage, defense, and healing.

Monks are masters of bare-handed combat, choosing to draw their weapons only for devastating finishing moves. Monk healers bring harmony and balance to every group, healing even the most grievous of injuries with ancient remedies and focused spiritual arts. And few can hope to out-last the unquenchable prowess of the Monk Brewmaster, whose empowering beverages and unpredictable combat style allow them to absorb incredible amounts of punishment.

New Game Features

New Level Cap - Level Cap has been increased to 90.

Challenge Modes - Mists of Pandaria's Challenge Mode presents a new way to reward great team players and seasoned dungeon specialists. The idea is simple: if you select Challenge Mode for a dungeon, you and your group will be racing against the clock to finish the dungeon as quickly as possible. The faster you finish, the greater your reward.

Pet Battle System - We're talking about your Vanity pets here. You and your friends can pit your pets against each other in fun, friendly duels. You can teach your pets unique abilities and attacks, and they will use these abilities when battling other pets. As they fight and win battles, your pets will gain experience and level up, which makes them tougher and may even unlock new abilities. Assemble your roster and duke it out with your friends to see whose pets are the strongest! (Looks like Pokémon battle has reached a new level)

So these are the things that we are going to wait for in the upcoming expansion of World of Warcraft. For the mean time, enjoy the Mists of Pandaria cinematic trailer from Youtube.

For more details about the new expansion you may visit Blizzard's official page here.

The Walking Dead: What Lies Ahead

2011-10-19T12:00:00.001+08:00

The Walking Dead Season 2 began last Sunday, October 16 with the episode entitled "What Lies Ahead". So the Walking Dead invades television with their second season.

"What Lies Ahead" shows what happened after leaving CDC headquarters before it blew up due to automatic decontamination procedure of the facility. Rick Grimes decided to leave Atlanta and head to Fort Benning for a possible sanctuary. He then leaves a message to Morgan (from pilot episode "Days Gone Bye") telling them that the CDC headquarters was a dead-end and they will be leaving Atlanta.

They then reached a part of the highway with overturned vehicles. As they try to search a way to pass thru, the RV drove by Dale blows a hose, leaving the stranded in an open area. While the RV is fixed they decided to look for usable items like food, water and clothing.

Suddenly a horde of walkers came from nowhere (remember Lesson Number 2). Almost everybody hides underneath the cars with the exception of Andrea who was left inside the RV. One walker comes inside the RV and discovered her and Dale from RV's roof gives her a screwdriver and stabs the walker in the eye. (I'm not sure why this walker comes inside the RV. Are these walkers able to think that it decided to take a look inside the RV while most of the other just walks by?)

T-Dog cuts his arm while trying to hide which made the walkers follow him thru the trail of blood he left. Daryl saves him by stabbing one of the walkers and covering them with the dead bodies to throw off the walkers away from them.

With the horde passing them by, Sophia thinking that all the walkers already pass by, left her hiding spot and was chased by 2 walkers to the forest. Rick then follows her and draws the walker's attention because he can outrun them. Sophia left the hiding spot but was not able to get back to the highway. As Rick and Daryl follows Sophia's trail, they encounter another walker in the woods and cut if out to check the possibility if it might have attacked her. Luckily, it did not and they decided to cut the search off temporarily since it is getting late. The next morning the group decided to look for Sophia in the woods. (Damn! This episode should be entitled "Donde Esta Sophia?"). Dale and T-Dog were left to guard the cars.

Before they left, an argument between Dale and Andrea erupts as the latter does not want to give her gun back. Further conversation reveals that she despises her for taking away her choices, especially when she decided to stay in the CDC facility (TS-19 episode) to end her life but opted to go outside as she does not want Dale to die with her.

In the woods, they discovered a tent where a man committed suicide by shooting himself in the head. The group's attention was caught by a bell ringing and found a church in a clearing. Inside the church they found 3 walkers sitting in the pews (This is getting weirder! It seems that they pray. Praying for food I guess.) Upon killing and clearing the church, they found no Sophia and the bell as a pre-recorded electrical bell on a timer.

While the others are inside, Andrea overhears Shane and Lori arguing about how he treats Carl recently. Shane finally tells her that he will leave the group if he gets a chance because he thinks it’s the best for them (regarding their relationship prior to Rick being alive). She (Andrea) then asks Shane to take her with him as she does not want to stay with the group anymore.

The group then splits leaving Rick, Shane and Carl to search the vicinity for Sophia, while the rest went back to the highway. Rick then asks for a sign that he can still be a leader to the group. While walking in the woods, the three spotted a deer grazing in the woods and the two let Carl come near it. The episode ended with Carl being shot by a fire intended to the deer by another gun.

This episode raised my curiosity as we start to see how the walkers behave like a normal human being like checking an open RV or sitting in the church pews. Maybe we need to review some of the survival tips (part 1 and part 2) and I might as well add up new tips while waiting for the next episode. This leaves me with a lot of questions. Who shot the deer? Will Carl survive the shot? Where the heck is Sophia? Will they leave the deer behind or take its meat as food provision for the survivor? Hope to get the answers in the next episode. I leave you with the trailer for the Season 2 from Youtube.

When Criminals Attack

2011-10-15T18:00:00.002+08:00

I just had some news this week about several stories from my co-workers about their close encounters with muggers and robbers.

A female colleague had a brush-up with men in the bus demanding her cell phone in a low voice. What happened was she was on a north-bound bus on EDSA when these men sat beside her. She was on her way to work and a little sleepy when she heard one of the men telling her "Ibigay mo na yan" in a low voice manner. Startled, she stood up and asked the man "Ano po yun manong?" which caught the attention of the other passengers and in turn made the group of the said men to alight the bus unexpectedly.

The second time she did not get lucky as she was 'sandwiched' in the three seat section by 2 men. The mode performed this time was distraction from the man on one side while the other one tries to get her wallet and phone. Unfortunately, even she was able to recognize what was happening and told the men to don't touch her wallet and cell phone; they were able to get her wallet. She was even smacked by one of the men on the head before alighting along the Magallanes interchange.

The third story I have heard was with Gepay, where the jeepney she rode along Rizal Avenue was held-up by group of men. Her bag was taken and she was even pointed with a gun. She has to jump from the moving vehicle fearing that he will shoot her. Good thing there was some people to help her after falling from the jeep.

There are more stories shared in our office as of this week. With these stories, it seems that robbery incidents are becoming rampant as the holiday season is nearing. I have made some pointers on how we can protect ourselves against this type of criminal elements of the society.

PRESENCE OF MIND

There's a difference from being alert and being paranoid. Either way it pays a lot if you are aware of what is happening around you. Sometimes trusting your instinct will help you save your belongings. If you see a man asking for assistance or telling you to look somewhere else especially if he tells you right away out of nowhere, it would be best to ignore them. There's a chance he is distracting you while one of their colleague is getting some time to nab your things.

CHOOSE WELL YOUR PUV's

One of the bad things about hold-up gang hitting jeepney passengers is that they have partnership with the driver. This way they can change the route to a less populated area and that's where they will declare hold-up. As much as possible avoid unlit jeepney, and do not occupy the last section of the buses especially if it is empty. Chances of being pick-pocketed or held-up on that section are high and asking for help will be futile.

DON'T FLASH YOUR GADGETS

You are likely increasing your chance to be a target from the bad elements if you keep using your phone in a public area. It's like honey to the bees and dog poop to the flies because you're attracting them. If somebody is calling you, answer it once you're in a secured place like inside the cab or bus. If it is really important the person on the other line will surely call you back or you can text them back once you're settled. You won't believe but I've seen a girl died when she can't wait to see who texted her. The problem was she was crossing in the middle of street and she did not notice a truck and it ran over her.

MULTIPLE POCKETS/STORAGE

Having at least 2 wallets or getting a spare one will provide a lot of help. This way if one wallet gets stolen, not all of your cash is stolen. You can also get those pocket sized card organizer to put all your cards away from your wallet. Your cash maybe taken together with your wallet but your ATM and credit cards will be spared. You should know how difficult it is to get replacement of these cards.

GEAR-UP

If you have some budget, you can buy pepper spray from security stores. I've noticed that every mall has at least one store selling these security gadgets. If you have little extra to spare, you may want to try those stun guns, retractable batons and I think there's a combination of both. I am not sure if you need to secure a permit carrying these things but I'm sure the stores selling them will know. Just an important thing to remember, make sure that you have the guts and training to use these thing to robbers because if not it might be used against you in turn.

GIVE UP

If all else fails upon encountering these type of people, don't play hero especially if you are outnumbered and if they have a weapon and you don't have. Just give to them what they want because your life is much more important than anything else unless you're suicidal.

You may also check other tips against criminals from a previous post here.
Image from Pugad Baboy XX.

Hammy's TV: Zombie Apocalypse Survival Tips Part 2

2011-10-06T06:00:00.002+08:00

It's been almost a year since I posted the first survival guide against zombie attacks. With the 6 webisodes that has just been released here are some additional tips that will ensure that you will live longer.

DON'T STARE

Didn't your parents teach you that it's rude to stare at people especially when they are eating? What more to a walker having his lunch, you're just offering yourself as his next course of meal.

THROW THE DEAD OUTSIDE

Never ever leave a dead body inside the house during a zombie apocalypse. You'll never know when they will rise and eat you when you’re sleeping.

DO NOT PROVIDE FIRST AID

If you see any unconscious person in the middle of the street, don't provide first aid especially mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.

DO WHAT YOUR NEIGHBOR TELLS YOU

If your neighbor asks you to kill him because he's bitten, please do so. This will lessen the number of walkers that will attack you in the future.

DARK PLACE + TINY FLASH LIGHT = INSTANT DEATH

You should know that braving unlit areas with a tiny light can be fatal especially if you just left a dead body on that room.

CHECK THE BACKSEAT

Always check the backseat of the car before boarding. It pays a lot when you check it so you won't die senseless.

USE TIME WISELY

If you're bitten and infected, make use of the remaining time as human to be worth dying. Don't just stand there and let them eat you.

Hammy's TV: The Walking Dead Webisodes

2011-10-05T18:00:00.006+08:00

AMC Network just released the webisodes for The Walking Dead in preparation for the second season of the series which will start on October 16.

The web series entitled The Walking Dead: Torn Apart tells the story of Hannah, more known as the "Bicycle Girl". She was shown during the pilot episode in season 1 when Rick Grimes encountered her as a badly decayed zombie lying beside a bicycle in the park. Rick takes pity and walks back to shoot her to end her suffering.

The web series, which consists of 6 episodes, shows the back story of Hannah and her struggle to protect her family against the impending zombie apocalypse. It also shows how she ended up one of the walkers, but I think she's more of a crawler actually since she only has half of her body left.

Here's the first webisode entitled A New Day:

The Hiatus Excuse

2011-10-05T12:00:00.007+08:00

I've been gone for almost 2 months with no blog post or any updates. So I came up with a list of things that prevented me from blogging.

Work

There has been a large bulk of workload this month. Hopefully the efforts we have exerted to share our knowledge about the product we are currently supporting will have a good result by the end of the year.

Facebook

Yes, this is a big distraction. Especially when you see those notifications in the upper right portion of your wall. With the advent of the new features Facebook has announced weeks ago, it's really tempting to try that new layout my friends are boasting in their profile pictures. I am still dealing how to control how much I will be checking FB everyday.

Wikipedia & IMDB

I always check these 2 sites whenever I watch movies or TV series. When I'm in Wikipedia, one thing that I cannot keep myself from doing is to click a backlink that I end up with so many tabs in my browser reading where this particular chick played a part in another movie. If my curiosity is not satisfied, I check the IMDB link of the wiki entry and check additional info like quotes, trivia and goofs. One best feature of IMDB for me is the parent's guide that shows you whether the movie can be watched by children. It helps me gauge if the movie is worth watching. (Insert big grin here)

World of Warcraft: Cataclysm

This is the online game I am currently playing right now and this one takes plenty of my time during my rest day. I have been with the Horde side for over 2 years and the game not only features the usual slash and kill system which most MMORPG offers. It not just offers quests to level your character up, it also has different types of player versus player activity like raids and battlegrounds. It also has different events in game like the Brewfest which looks like the Oktoberfest where I am able to drink unlimited supply of beer -- I mean my character, for 2 weeks during the said event. To control my playing time, I have cancelled my monthly subscription auto-renewal.

Actually these reasons I have stated are just excuses to justify my laziness to write. Hopefully, now that I have acknowledged my laziness, I can make a habit of making a post once a week. I realized that I can also use these excuses as a mean to write something.

Who are The Smurfs?

2011-08-06T06:00:00.003+08:00

I have posted previously The Smurfs Happy Meal toys as it coincides with the showing of movie this month. It seems that some of my friends don't know who they are because the cartoon series was shown during the eighties. Good thing my father was abroad during that time and was able to record the cartoon series. Together with Woody Woodpecker and Super Friends, I was introduced to these cartoons through the betamax tapes my father brought when he got home. Later, the cartoon series was then shown by a local channel.

The Smurfs Adventures that ran from 1982-89 by Hanna-Barbera

I also found that it was not just popular with the kids during that time but with teenage girls. I can still remember my sisters' poster in our room that includes MacGyver, Phoebe Cates, and among the cartoon characters posters they have were The Smurfs.

But who exactly are The Smurfs? They are small creatures, three apples high, and lives in a cottage that resembles a mushroom. The prominent trait that they have is the blue skin and they wear a white trouser and a hat, well except for some like Papa Smurf who wears a red one. One remarkable character I can always remember is Vanity Smurf, although I don't exactly knew his name during that time. I thought that the character was gay since he had a female voice and always holds a mirror, it turns out that it was the way how vanity was shown over cartoons during that time.

I can also remember Gargamel and his cat Azrael as the main antagonist of the series who always uses his magic to make the Smurfs' live complicated but as always he ends up defeated through the efforts and unity of the Smurfs.

Another unique character on the cartoon series during that time was Smurfette. She was unique because she was the only female Smurf in the cartoon series that time and because of that, she was the center of attraction of the Smurfs community. I've learned that Katy Perry provided her voice in the upcoming movie adaptation. I'm not sure if this is one reason why I have seen a fan art of a sexy Smurfette over the internet lately.

The Smurfs the Movie will be released in cinemas by next week and I plan to watch it to relive the nostalgic experience I had during my childhood. I hope that there will be a new cartoon series to be shown like the one before so that the kids nowadays will know who they are.

Movie poster came from Internet Movie Data Base

McDonald's Presents The Smurfs Happy Meal

2011-07-31T06:00:00.003+08:00

As the movie adaptation of The Smurfs comes into theater this coming week, McDonalds launches the new set of Happy Meal toys featuring the characters from the movie. The Smurfs Happy Meal toys consist of 8 characters from the movie which includes Papa Smurfs, Smurfette and others.

The Smurfs Happy meal is now available at the nearest McDonald's store with one toy with every Happy Meal. If you're a fan of the cartoon series like me, be sure to collect them in your nearest McDonald's because promo runs from July 29 - September 2 only.

How Much Have I Visited the Philippines?

2011-07-19T06:00:00.015+08:00

I recently noticed a number of posts in Facebook of a picture of the map with some shaded areas. Upon further checking, I found out that it was from a website that gauges how much of the Philippines have you gone to already.

The site was Lakbayan by Eugene Alvin Villar. On the site itself, there is a list of places from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Opposite on the name of the place are five section wherein you can put a tickmark corresponding to categories whether you have been that place or not.

I tried to complete the form and here's what my map look like:

Looks like I have only traveled not more than 10% of the country. If I was not attending the engineer's conferences, I will not be able to reach some places in Visayas and Mindanao region.

Hopefully, the map will have more shade and my grade will improve when I update this post next time because I want to visit many places in the country.

Pera Mo, Palaguin Mo Seminar-Workshop

2011-06-03T18:00:00.019+08:00

The Colayco Foundation for Education (CFE) will be having seminar-workshop about financial management entitled "Pera Mo, Palaguin Mo". Based on Francisco J. Colayco's book with the same name, this workshop will equip you with the skills to make your own Financial Plan to be Wealthy. It will also equip you with the right Investing Mindset.

This workshop is recommended for those who are serious about taking control of their personal lives by preparing their own financial plan to be wealthy.

SEMINAR-WORKSHOP DETAILS:

• How to make your own financial plan using the following tools: Adjusting Your Sails Table, Statement of Assets and Liabilities, Personal Income and Expense Statement and Net Worth Planning.

• Get the right Investing Mindset and an overview of investment instruments that you can consider depending on a particular financial circumstance.

• This workshop includes a copy of Pera Palaguin Workbook which will serve as your guide to planning your financial life today and in the future.

Location:
Colayco Foundation
7th Floor Social Hall, Citystate Centre Condominium, 709 Shaw Blvd., Oranbo, Pasig City

For reservations, please contact:
Phone #: 09178088857
Email: eric@colaycofoundation.com, info@colaycofoundation.com

Seminar fee will be Php 3000. You can avail the 50% discount by getting the discount voucher. Please see the details below.

DISCOUNT DETAILS:

• Voucher is valid for one (1) slot at Pera Mo! Palaguin Mo! Workshop happening on June 11, 2011, Saturday, from 1:00PM to 5:00PM.

• Standard Ensogo Terms:
- Voucher is transferable and may be given as gift.
- Price is inclusive of all service charge and VAT.
- All paid transactions are non refundable.
- Voucher cannot be used in conjunction with any discount card or promotion.
- Voucher is valid as a discount coupon
- Last call for reservations must be made three (3) days prior to the event.

• Reservation is required at least three (3) days prior to seminar date. Non-reservation will result to forfeiture of voucher/s.

• Cancellations must be made a day before the set appointment. Clients who don’t show up for their scheduled appointments will have their voucher/s forfeited.

• In the event that the voucher is not redeemed, client may opt to consume the value on Book titles of Colayco Foundation up to June 31, 2011 only.

• For inquiries and reservations, please call Victor Cruz , 09178088857

What is Ensogo and How it Works?

Ensogo is a FREE service that offers great deals of 50%-90% savings on the best things to enjoy, see, eat, and buy in Manila.

How to Buy the Voucher?

1. Register and log-in to the site.
2. Choose the promo and perform the necessary actions.
3. Once complete voucher will be sent to your email.

Register to Ensogo

Chyng Reyes' Traumatic Experience as an Alleged DRUG TRAFFICKER in Bali Indonesia

2011-06-03T09:00:00.011+08:00

I do not know Chyng Reyes personally. I only know her from some of my blogger's group from the office. What I am to post here is her own experience when she and her friend traveled to Indonesia and their horrific experience upon arriving there. I am posting her experience as sign of support to spread a reality that our government should be making an action.

Here is the complete post from her blog:

For first time readers..
My name is Chyng Reyes. I graduated with a degree of Electronics and Communications Engineering in a state university in Intramuros. I work in a BPO company in MoA complex as part of Systems Development team. Im a blogger who frequently travels. And Im an individual who has never taken prohibited drugs.

mga BINTANG-ero kayo!

My friend Dyanie and I planned an SG-Bali trip for our birthdays. We took Airphil's Manila-SG flight last May 26, 2011.

Dyanie was held in the Immigration simply because she cant present her company ID. She was suspected na mag-paiwan sa SG to work, and never return to Pinas. This experience alone was heart pounding- though it's only a matter of being approved and being declined to fly to SG. So what more if it's a matter of life and death...

Last May 28, we flew from SG to Bali via Airasia.
Airasia's airbus was full of different nationalities. But Dyanie and I were the only Filipinos on board. We landed in Denpasar airport at almost 11:40pm. We lined up in the Xray machines for our luggage to be scanned.

The moment the officer saw my passport - he carried my luggage. He asked me "is this yours?" I said yes. What could be wrong with my luggage.. The officer scanned our hands too. We don't have any idea what's that for so we asked him. He answered "secret".

After he scanned our hands with that stick, he looked at me and said "come and follow me." He looked to Dyan and said "you also."

omg. what's wrong?!

So in front of all passengers of Airasia that night (na malalaki ang katawan, at yung iba may tattoo, at sila pa yung mukhang harmful kesa samin), kami pa ni Dyan ang mukhang may drugs! We followed the officer because we dont have a choice. We obeyed him, as if we already did something wrong. All other passengers were staring at us..

syet.. anong meron sa bag ko. at anong marks ang nakita nya sa kamay namin? kinabahan ako. this isnt just the usual immigration thing. this is something serious!

We entered the holding room. There were 3 officers inside. 2 males and a lady officer. "Meet my Filipina friend. She was caught hiding packs of heroins in her luggage" said the officer. Sabay turo sa picture frames sa wall nila. It seemed like a gallery of drug traffickers from all over the world. He reminded me that DEATH is the PENALTY of those drug traffickers.

Paksyet. It's matter of life and death in the hands of these Indonesian Police Officers..

They offered something to drink but we refused.
Yoko nga, baka dahil jan sa drinks na yan magkaron pa ng drugs substance sa katawan namin..

"Do you know her?" asked the officer as he was pointing to the girl in the picture frame. - I answered no.
"Did you take drugs?" - Of course not!
"Did you have drugs hidden in your body?" - What?! Never!

nagpanting yung tenga ko. galit na galit ako. at the same time nalungkot. bakit ganun, tagged na ang pinoys as drug traffickers dahil sa kasalanan ng iilan..

"Let's check your bag".
The officer searched my things thoroughly. I was just looking at him. He checked every compartment of my luggage too.

Ang lakas ng kaba ng dibdib ko. I knew he could frame me up. At wala na kong laban if that happens. Nasa teritoryo nila kami.Ansama sama ng loob ko. Dahil lang Pinoy kami, instant suspect na agad kami.

After he messed with all my things and found nothing, I asked the officer what could be wrong and why was he checking us. He just answered "because the 2 of you are beautiful girls."

putangina mo, nakikipag-cooperate kami sa inyo. naabala at napahiya na kami kanina pa. kaya sana sumagot ka ng maayos kung may tinatanong kami.

For the 3rd time, we went outside the holding room to scan my luggage. I was really very nervous (and irritated). I could imagine him almost saying that he found something in my bag. Remember, he was holding my bag all the time. I never had the chance to touch it again..

you dont trust us. and we dont trust you either. the feeling is mutual. ang advantage lang, nasa Indonesia tayo. at kayo ang may authority.

Now they looked to Dyan. The lady officer asked her if she was hiding drugs in her belly. Of course she answered no. The other officer ordered a body check on her.

as narrated by Dyan:
Gusto ko man magsabi ng ayoko ng body check, wala akong nagawa. Bansa nila yan. So sunod lang ako sa gusto nila. Pumasok kami sa Body Check Room. Inikot ko yung mata ko to check if there are surveillance cameras. Tapos ni-lock ko yung pinto. Tinanong ko si lady officer kung bakit namin to ginagawa. May 3 pinay daw na nahulihan ng drugs sa loob ng tyan nila. Sympre di ko alam kung totoo nga yun. Pinahubad nya ko ng damit. As in HUBAD lahat. The only body part na hinawakan nya ay ang tyan ko. Pero nakaka-harassed pa din. Wala naman siyang nakitang kakaiba.

no offense pero meron ba silang extensive training na by just touching a body part malalaman na kung may drugs dun? ang hirap maniwala. they cant even speak straight english to start with. mayabang lang sila. pero wala silang masyadong alam.

Now back in the holding room, and I was with the other 2 male officers. They started bragging that they captured all of the drug traffickers in the picture frame. Im still not sure what will happen next as they never told us anything.

What now!? gusto nyo lang may mapatunayan kayo at may madagdag kayong picture jan sa wall nyo?!

Im so proud of Dyan. She went back in the room and still didnt breakdown. I knew I will start crying too if I see her terrified.
pero sa totoong buhay daw, sobrang takot na nya na masesetup kami.
Dyan said I dont look scared at all too. I just look very irritated.
pero sa totoo lang, nafi-feel kong anytime sasabihin ng officers na may nakita sila sa bag namin.. at di na kami makakauwi ng Pinas. =(

After 1.5 hours, they finally let us go. Wala silang nakita. They thanked us for being cooperative pero di ko pinansin yung hand shake offer nila. Galit na galit ako. Pero alam ko bawal ako magsalita. Hindi rin sila nagsorry sa abala na ginawa nila. Para san pa, wala na kaming gana na pumasok ng Bali. Sirang sira yung bakasyon namin dahil sa ganitong pagwelcome nila sa Pinoy.
Sabagay their sorry wont be enough. Kulang yan sa kahihiyan, sobrang takot, trauma, at paranoia na inabot namin dahil sa kanila. Ang sama sama ng loob ko. Putangina nyo!

We met the hotel driver who's been waiting for us since 11:40PM. We finally went out of the airport at 1:30AM. I thanked the driver for waiting for us. He wasn't surprised that we were the last to go out. Sabi nya, kapag Pinoy chinecheck daw muna.

Ah ganun..
Dahil lang may mga Pinoy na drug trafficker, lahat ng Pinoy drug traffickers na agad?!

So it's also fair to call all Indonesian Policemen RAPISTS?!

Indonesian Policemen RAPISTS!
http://en.rian.ru/Religion/20100114/157540293.html

Indonesian Policeman CHILD RAPIST!

http://arsipberita.com/show/indonesia-police-rapes-nine-yr-old-girl-206964.html

How about call all Policemen DRUG DEALERS because of this?

Indonesian Officers DRUG DEALERS

http://www.thejakartaglobe.com/home/anti-narcotics-officers-busted-for-drugs/442310

Or can I tag all Indonesian ADDICTS sabagay 51 thousand locals nila ay junkies?

51 Thousand Drug Addict Indonesians
http://equal-life.blogspot.com/2009/05/thousands-of-people-die-in-indonesia.html

Fair enough?

I hope if an Indonesian visits Pinas, ma-tag din sila as RAPISTS, DRUG DEALERS, and ADDICTS instantly! Maramdaman nila sana yung treatment nila samin.. Yan ang rules nila di ba?

Sa sobrang takot ni Dyanie, she cried to sleep that night. Tulala. Di nagsasalita.
Sa sobrang galit ko, di ako nakatulog. I started vomiting. Hinika din ako sa sama ng loob.
Wala pa kaming 2 oras sa Bali pero gustong gusto na namin umuwi ng Pinas. Sirang sira ang bakasyon namin.

Putangina nyo! Naging praning na kami everytime may police kaming makikita. Or everytime dadaan kaming xray, paulit ulit muna naming pinapagpag ang bawat damit namin - oras oras - just to check na walang naisingit na drugs sa gamit namin. We're so traumatized that we wont be planning to go out of the country anytime soon.

DEATH for DRUG TRAFFICKERS
and it wont matter if the DRUGS found is really yours
ako na ang praning

We swore not to go back to Indonesia again. We already suffered a lot. We regret the day we entered this country.
And if you are planning to go to Bali too, well good luck. The next suspect could be you.
End of the post

You may check the original post from the link below:
http://www.chyngreyes.com/2011/06/my-traumatic-experience-as-alleged-drug.html

As I have mentioned earlier, I have re-posted her experience to share what happened to her. This might have already happened and currently happening to others. If anybody you know experienced the same thing, it's time to stand up and be heard. If you have the power to spread this information, please do not hesitate to re-post this. This is an opportunity to show what we can do something so that this experience will not happen to others.

I will not wait for our government to impose travel sanction to Indonesia. I will never travel to Indonesia for leisure. Let us spread the word to boycott any vacation travel to Indonesia. I hope this way, they will know that we should not be intimidated by their actions to our fellow Filipinos.

DPP Magazine # 38 Will Enlighten You

2011-06-02T12:00:00.003+08:00

Digital Photographer Philippines issue number 38 is now out. This issue gets you a pass for an exclusive access to DPP's 5th Anniversary on June 4 at Bonifacio High Street, Global City.

DPP's newest issue gives you 100 Essential Photo Tips from varying genre from landscapes, portraits, wildlife, black and white, action shots, until shooting techniques to editing. The issue features a 10-page guide on how to utilize single light as Tom Epperson reveals its versatility. There's also a special feature on macro photography with 11 pages of great shots from experts plus their tips on how to get pro-like captures. And for Photoshop enthusiast, they have added techniques for smoke art.

DPP added an article on how to start a photography business on their Career Guide section. Pro shares some tips on how to start with low budgets as the article discuss how to make your career and budget a long way. There's a lead story about mirrorless DSLR where some experts investigate if it can be the future of photography. I like reading the 10-page lens special which guides you on which lens to use for genre of photography.

Some cameras and accessories featured and reviewed on this issue are Olympus PEN E-PL2, Sony DT 30mm f2.8 Macro SAM, Sony 85mm f2.8 SAM, Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-120mm f4G ED VR, Canon Speedlite 270EX, Olympus FL-50R, Nikon SB 400 and Nikon SB 900 plus some lighting accessories from Phottix.

Digital Photographer Philippines number 38 is now available at your magazine stands and some book stores.

DPP Magazine Cover was scanned and watermarked for blog purposes only.

DPP Magazine #37 is Super Hot!

2011-05-11T12:00:00.012+08:00

Finally I was able to get my copy of Digital Photographer Philippines issue number 37 after a long search in all bookstores I know on the way home. Their newest issue makes the summer season hotter as they feature Lovi Poe and Solenn Heussaff on the cover with the swimsuit issue.

The issue features the 16th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, Caltex's Photo Contest and the event's winning images. It also includes a little deliberation about movie modes in DSLR nowadays - do you want it in your camera or not? Plus a lot of shooting techniques with 20 tips to capture summer in your own backyard; tips and tricks on how to take action shots and what is speed photography all about; and additional information from professionals who likes to take pictures of the wild. The issue also includes a 20-page guide on shooting swimsuit with Lovi and Solenn making the summer hotter with their bikini photo shoot in Tali Beach Resort located in Nasugbu, Batangas.

Among the cameras that were featured are Olympus' PEN E-PL2, Fujifilm's FinePix X100, Sigma SD1 DSLR, Canon EOS 1100D and 600D. Also has a full review of Canon EOS 60D, Nikon D7000, and Pentax K-5.

Digital Photographer Philippines number 37 is now available at your magazine stands and some book stores.

DPP Magazine Cover was scanned and watermarked for blog purposes only.

INVESTability: Mutual Fund

2011-05-09T21:00:00.005+08:00

Do you want to know about Mutual Funds? If you are, then read on. According to Wikipedia, a mutual fund is a professionally managed type of collective investment that pools money from many investors to buy stocks, bonds, short-term money market instruments, and/or other securities. That is just a basic definition of mutual funds and to know more about it you may want to attend this seminar.

The Colayco Foundation for Education (CFE), Inc. will present a seminar entitled Investability: Mutual Funds on May 21, 2PM - 5PM at the Social Hall, 7/F, Citystate Center Condominium, 709 Shaw Boulevard, Pasig City.

This seminar is ideal for people who are considering investing in mutual funds. CFE will present an unbiased view of pros and cons of investing in mutual funds in a more understandable concept.

On this seminar, you will learn that Mutual funds are considered the greatest democratizers of the investment instruments. You will also learn that one can start investing Php 5000 through professional fund managers.

Seminar fee will be Php 2000. You can avail the 50% discount by getting the discount voucher. Please see the details below.

DISCOUNT DETAILS:
* Voucher is valid for the INVESTABILITY-Mutual Fund Seminar, happening on May 21, 2011, 2:00PM to 5:00PM
* In the event that the voucher is not redeemed, client may opt to consume the value P1000 on BOOK TITLES of Colayco Foundation only up to June 6, 2011
* Seminar capacity is limited to 75 people only.
* Standard Ensogo Terms:
- Voucher is transferable and may be given as gift.
- Price is inclusive of all service charge and VAT.
- All paid transactions are non-refundable.
- Voucher cannot be used in conjunction with senior citizen card, and any discount card or promotion
* Reservation is required at least one (1) week prior to seminar date. Non-reservation will forfeit voucher.
* Cancellations must be made a day before the set appointment. Clients who don’t show up for their scheduled appointments will have their voucher/s forfeited.
* For inquiries and reservations, please call Eric Ramirez at 6373741, 6373731 or 09157493616.

What is Ensogo and How it Works?
Ensogo is a FREE service that offers great deals of 50%-90% savings on the best things to enjoy, see, eat, and buy in Manila.

How to Buy the Voucher?
1. Register and log-in to our site.
2. Choose the promo and perform the necessary actions.
3. Once complete voucher will be sent to your email.

Register to Ensogo

Wide Tube 2.0: Thor

2011-05-05T18:00:00.007+08:00

Since I was a follower of Marvel Comics characters, I did not pass the chance to watch Thor in its first week of screening. Unlike Spider-Man, I am not familiar with Thor's character. I am just curious since this movie is interconnected to Iron Man and other movies that is part of Marvel Cinematic Universe.

This means that almost all of Marvel Comics movies will somehow be related or will have connection with each other. Well, except for others which has been under different movie studios (namely Spider-Man, X-Men, Fantastic Four, Blade, Ghost Rider, Daredevil, and Elektra)

The plot was taken partly from the origin wherein Thor (Chris Hemsworth) was stripped of his godly powers and Mjolnir taken from him due to arrogance and disobedience. Odin (Anthony Hopkins) then exiles Thor on Earth and throws Mjolnir casting a spell that it can only be lifted by someone worthy to wield it. Upon arriving in Mexico, he was found by Jane Foster (Natalie Portman) together with her colleagues. After failing to lift the hammer for himself, Thor decided to accept his fate as a normal human being.

Unbeknownst to Odin and Thor, this set of events was part of an elaborate plan of Loki (Tom Hiddleston) to usurp the throne from Thor. It also provided an extra point when he discovered that he was Frost Giant by blood and not Asgardian as his adoptive father, Odin had claimed.

I will praise Kenneth Branagh for being able to introduce who Thor is in this film. I was able to know the characters surrounding the thunder god without reading the comics. Hiddleston was able to show how Loki can be look helpless, mischievous, manipulative and dangerous all through-out the film.

There were significant references from other movies that incorporate this movie to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. There was a reference to a gamma rays scientist that disappeared after they encountered Shield agents (maybe referring to Bruce Banner and Betty Ross). There was one Shield agent asking Coulson (Clark Gregg) about the destroyer if it's one of Stark's technologies.

Stan Lee also makes a cameo appearance which he usually does in every Marvel comic movie adaptation. One funny scene I can't forget is when Shield agents notice the arrival of Sif and Warriors Three in the town describing them as Xena, Robin Hood and Jackie Chan. If you haven't watched the movie yet make sure to finish the post credits rolling since there is an extra scene with Nick Fury revealing a possible plot for The Avengers from a relic that might be related to Captain America which will be released this July.

I am not sure if there will be a sequel for this movie beside The Avengers which is slated to show next year, but it will be great to have a sequel to know more about Thor. I will give this movie with a 9 out of 10 rating for delivering a good Marvel character film adaptation of Thor.

All images came from Internet Movie Data Base

Wide Tube 2.0: Source Code

2011-04-19T18:00:00.003+08:00

What would you do if you only had one minute to live? What if you need to re-live the last 8 minutes of a person to witness a painful death over and over again? This is the main plot of Source Code, a sci-fi movie with a twist of time travel and parallel universe concepts.

Colter Stevens (Jake Gyllenhaal) wakes up in a train with no memory how he got there. All he knows before is that he was in Afghanistan flying a helicopter and was surprised waking up in a train. The train then explodes after sometime and he wakes up in a sphere-like ship. Upon making some sense of what happened, he suddenly remembers that he is part of a secret government program known as Source Code.

Source Code, according to its creator Dr. Rutledge (Jeffrey Wright), allows a person to be sent, simulate and/or re-live the last 8 minutes of a person before he died. In this case, Colter is sent to re-live Sean Fentress last 8 minutes to identify who bomb the train to prevent a second possible larger bomb threat. With assistance from Colleen Goodwyn (Vera Farmiga), Colter must identify the bomber so that he can prevent a greater disaster to happen and at the same time save Christina (Michelle Monaghan)

During the beginning of the film you will think that the concept of the Source Code project is about time traveling. But later, you will understand the real concept of the project, that it is an access to alternate reality that any action he takes will not affect the current reality he really is since the time line will be a different one. As Rutledge explains "Source Code is not time travel but is only a time re-assigment".

The movie was able to deliver the concept of alternate reality, with a little twist of time loop, in a unique way. Unlike most time travel or alternate reality themed movies where the protagonist goes back in time, saves the day and goes back to the future and everybody is happy. This movie leaves several alternate realities without preventing the train explosion. The only downside of this movie is I was able to predict the outcome as Colter tries to save the train one last time.

I will give this 8 out 10 rating because the movie keeps repeating an 8 minute scene for almost the duration of the entire movie. LOL! Another notable appearance in the movie is stand-up comedian Russell Peters doing some sketch at the end of the movie.

All images came from Internet Movie Data Base

Nikon Releases D5100

2011-04-05T18:00:00.003+08:00

After releasing the D3100 last year, Nikon officially announces the release of Nikon D5100 this April. The D5100 that succeeds D5000 is a Nikon DX-format digital-SLR camera equipped with a vari-angle monitor, and a CMOS image sensor and the EXPEED 2 image-processing engine.

Nikon D5100's predecessor, D5000, was the first Nikon Digital-SLR to be equipped with the vari-angle monitor that allows users to enjoy flexible shooting from a wide variety of angles.

Primary Features

High Resolution image sensor with 16.2 megapixels resolution and also features the new High Dynamic Range (HDR) Function.
3-in., approximately 921000-dot vari-angle monitor with wide viewing angle.
D-Movie for recording and editing of Full-HD movies.
The first Nikon digital-SLR camera to offer Special Effects mode:

Favorite Special Effects Selective color
Color sketch
Miniature effect
Night vision

Added Features and Functions

High-speed continuous shooting at up to approximately 4 fps*,and a very precise and durable shutter unit that has passed testing for 100,000 cycles
Equipped with Quiet shutter-release mode for shooting in situations in which quieter shutter operation is desired
Infrared receivers for remote control operation on the front and back of the camera enable wireless control over the shutter from both in front of and behind the camera (optional ML-L3 wireless remote control supported).
Equipped with 16 scene modes that enable the simple capture of beautiful photos of the desired scene with automatic optimization of camera settings
Built-in HDMI-CEC compatibility enables control over playback of still images and movies using the television's remote control when the camera is connected to a high-definition TV via the HDMI connector.

Nikon D5100 is set to be released in UK on April 21 with price tag of £ 669.99 (USD 1080) for the body and £ 779.99 (USD 1257.00) with 18-55 mm VR Kit. You do the math to get it in PHP price and expect Philippine release within 3rd quarter of the year.

You may check the D5100's full specification here and the product detail here.

Lessons Learned from iBlog 7

2011-04-04T18:00:00.005+08:00

The recently held iBlog: The 7th Philippine Blogging Summit or iBlog 7 was the first major blogging convention I have attended. I was able to meet new people and make new friends in the blogging community.

Day 1 was specifically intended for entrepreneurs and businesses who may want to use blogging as way to promote their businesses.

I was able to meet and chat with Tristan Mirasol and Mark Joseph Delgado during breaks as we were seatmates.

We had the first topic from Jayson Biadog about Organizing Online Contest. Then I learned a lot from Earth Rullan about Blogger Etiquette as you interact with company that will support your site. I was really amazed how a fellow geodetic engineer like Regnard Raquedan was able to tell a story about "The Princess and the Wizards" on how to become a Social Media Champion. I will surely follow the 10 Power Blogging Tips from TV 5's Carlo Ople to improve my blogging skills. Too bad he didn't talk about "Big Bad TV Host"

After the lunch break, Howie Severino shared some insights about being a writer, journalist, and blogger differs and discussed how different Blogging now in the time of Facebook. Ginger Arboleda then discussed about how and why you have to do Offline Marketing for your site. I was just amazed how a person as young as Melvin Dichoso was able to earn from blogging so I listened as he discussed what are the modern ways to drive traffic in your site. Finally we got to learn some tips on Earning from Blogging as EJ Arboleda.

Janette Torral concluded Day 1 with her insights about having a National Bloggers Association and/or Professional Bloggers Association. Although I do not have a stand yet regarding this matter I listen to her as the Malcolm Theater was filled with silence as she talks about her stand. What strike me in her talk was when she said "We sometime write something with intention to hurt (somebody) but still at some point we still care about them."

Day 2 was more intended for young and new bloggers. Jeff and Menard was able to join me and I was able to meet the Batangas Today family lead by Marhgil Macuha.

We had interesting topics from Jonel Uy and Jinkee Umali about Blogging 101. Then we had some tips on Podcasting from Adrian Jeric Peña. Afterward we got some sharing from Roy Dela Cruz on How to Deal with Writer's Block. After the lunch break we were serenaded by UP Concert Chorus with their rendition of Ogie Alcasid's "Kailangan Kita" and the "Tong Song".

Sonnie Santos and Grace Nicolas talked about Advocacy Blogging. Then Fitz Villafuerte talked about Blog Traffic without SEO and Mon Macutay discussed about Blog and Facebook and introduced as to Elly Tran Ha. Michael Rubio then gave us tips against trolls - NEVER FEED THEM! Finally Ria Tirazona shared some insights how Blogging and Social Networks became a Support System for her.

I will say that iBlog 7 was one of the good experience that I had in the blogosphere and I am going to apply all the things I have learned to improve my blog, my techniques and skills so that one day I will be able to share them to new bloggers. Photos courtesy of Earth Rullan and Pusang Kalye

Choose Your Own Apocalyse

2011-03-29T06:00:00.005+08:00

With the earthquakes and tsunamis happening more frequently all over the world, assumptions of an apocalyptic event nearing is one of the hottest topic people talk about. Another factor that can add to it is the alleged Mayan prediction that the world will end by 2012.

I have decided to list of some possible event that may lead to the end of the world and if there will be a post-apocalyptic chance of survival. Let's just ignore those false prophets and check out what are the chances that we can survive beyond the end of days scenario. Please take note that I do not have any scientific proof or expertise about the scenarios I am going to talk and just based from some movies.

Water World Scenario
Description:

This apocalyptic event can be caused by a natural occurrence like global warming resulting to polar ice caps completely melted submerging not only coastal city but the entire world.

Chances to Happen: Moderately high
Survivability Chances: Medium
Skills Needed: swimming skill, knowledge in operating aquatic vehicles

Desolated Earth Scenario Description:

Desolation scenario can be caused by nuclear holocaust with catastrophic results. Most of the places will be left with minimal life form and this means no plant or animal life making the world a large wasteland. Survivors will have to face the risk of radioactive exposure to fallout remnants.

Chances to Happen: Moderately low (based on the current state of world peace)

Survivability Chances: Low, people who have a nuclear shelter has the only great chance of surviving.

Skills Needed: ability to find clean source of food and water

Ice Age Scenario
Description:

Can happen due to massive super storm, global temperature changes, or sudden stop of earth's rotation. Same as the desolation scenario, there will be a great loss of life form on earth's surface and food source will be affected.

Chances to Happen: Very low
Survivability Chances: High

Skills Needed: ability to withstand cold temperature, ability to find good source of food and water

Deep Impact Scenario
Description:

Scientists theorized that million of years ago, dinosaurs were wiped out on earth's surface when a meteor crashed. They also said that this might happen in the future and this can lead to extinction of mankind.

Chances to happen: Very low
Survivability Chances: Very low

Skills Needed: ability to find food and water source, must be able to adapt to possible changes in the earth's surface

AI Takeover Scenario
Description:

Artificial Intelligence has become self-aware and decided to eradicate human life form leaving them to rule the earth.

Chances to happen: Very low
Survivability Chances: Moderate

Skills Needed: ability to outsmart AI, ability to use firearms, physically fit to run and hide if necessary

Alien Takeover Scenario
Description:

Alien entities take over the entire planet as their own and makes the humans their slave or as a food source.

Chances to happen: Very Low
Survivability: Moderate
Skills Needed: Firearms proficiency, physically fit to run and hide if necessary

Zombie Apocalypse Scenario
Description:

Might be caused by experimental drugs gone wrong, virus outbreak or effects of a nuclear explosion. People are turned into rampaging rabid zombie who hungers for human flesh.

Chances to happen: Very low
Survivability: Moderate
Skills Needed: physically fit to run and hide if necessary, firearms proficiency

So there you have my list of things that plays in my mind when we talk about the end of days. These are just my imagination and hopefully won't happen in the next 100 years.

All images came from Internet Movie Data Base, Very Demotivational and Google Images

Earth Hour 2011

2011-03-22T12:00:00.001+08:00

On March 26, Saturday at 8:30 in the evening I will try to check if I will be able to join Earth Hour 2011. I am normally asleep during this time since my work ends on Saturday noon.

During this time everybody is encouraged to turn off their non-essential lights for an hour to conserve energy and raise awareness about global warming.

Personally, I think that these practices should not end at 9:30 PM. We should go beyond these things to really show that we are serious in conserving energy. Even though I am not able to join the past Earth Hour celebration, I try as much as possible to be able to conserve energy in many ways.

Some of the simple practices I do are turning off the computer monitor when I am not using it and I also make sure to turn off electronic devices off when it is not going to be used for a long time. I believe that if I continue doing these small things and share this to other people, this will have an impact on energy conservation. So I might advise to do your share in conserving energy in your own small own ways.

SEx 101: Public Display of Affection in Workplace, Good or Bad?

2011-03-15T18:00:00.005+08:00

It has been a long while since I have written something about Social Experiments 101 (SEx 101). I have decided to expand the things I can post in this section. Previously I try to conduct experiments and check how people will react on it. But now I decided to include people's behavior and attitude that I encounter everyday.

I decided to post something about public display of affection (PDA) for quite some time now since I have been wanting to write about it for sometime.

Ever since in school days I have been a witness to a number of relationships from friends and acquaintances who prefers to display how much they love each other in front of the public. Even in my high school days I have been annoyed and uncomfortable when I see my friends showing a lot of affection if front of the class. Now I can understand them since they were young during that time and the only thing they care is how they feel for each other.

I am now working in a corporate office and the workplace seems not safe from PDA. The company I am currently in makes sure that married couple who are currently employed should not be working under same department, teams or should not be reporting under the same manager.

But I have checked our policies and found out it does not have any rules and regulations on with regard to having relationship with colleagues. That is why office romance is I can say rampant in the workplace. I am not really against relationship blossoming in the office, I might say I'm just a believer of Barney Stinson's Platinum Rule.

What I really find uncomfortable is the PDA they do in front of other colleagues. I can respect what they feel with each other but shouldn't display of affection limited at some point. I might say this is a workplace and we should act professionals since we are no longer a teenager in school unaware of their action. Isn't it we should observe proper etiquette in the office and be a little more considerate and be aware of how people around feels.

These are some of the things that I like to make a point when there is an excessive display of affection in the office:

1. These actions greatly affects workers around the couple as some of them might feel uncomfortable.

2. There should be policies to be imposed to make sure that everybody, no matter their comfort level with different public displays of affection, can work comfortably among one another.

3. Should there will be no policies and anyone feels uncomfortable with the situation, some body should talk to the couple or if not possible to a manager so that they can discuss this matter properly with them.

4. Couple should be should be sensitive and respect the people around them so that the work environment will not be affected and productivity will not be sacrificed.

In the end, everybody should be responsible for the action they are doing inside the workplace. That is why we are called professionals because we should know how to practice proper work etiquette.

All images were taken from Google Images.

DPP Magazine Discusses Portraiture

2011-03-13T18:00:00.005+08:00

Digital Photographer Philippines (DPP) features all about portraiture on their 36th issue. The magazine tackles articles about different type such as newborn and child portraiture and environmental portraiture.

This issue also got discussion about the line between morals and photography. It also has a lot of tips and techniques from the pro's about group photography, flash photography, noise reduction in Lightroom and more. Reviews for Nikon D3100 and the new AF-S Nikkor 55-300mm f4-5-5.6G ED VR are also included.

Barb Uil, famous for baby photography in Australia, shares some insights and tips on how to take photographs of children in an exclusive interview with DPP.

Digital Photographer Philippines is now available at your magazine stands and some book stores.

DPP Magazine Cover was scanned and watermarked for blog purposes only.

Job Openings @ Trend Micro Inc.

2011-03-12T06:00:00.002+08:00

Trend Micro Inc. are offering job openings for more than 100 positions. There will be opening for positions like System Engineers, Team Leaders, Quality Assurance Managers, Technical Account Managers and more. For additional information of other posts needed, requirements and job descriptions you may check it here -Trend Micro Inc. Job Openings, and check the PH section for job openings.

Interested applicants may send their resume to spidermerck@yahoo.com. You may also visit its office during Recruitment Open House from March 14-16.

Trend Micro Inc. is located at 8th Floor, Rockwell Business Center Tower 2, Ortigas Ave., Pasig City. The building is located between Medical City and Meralco Compound. Should you visit the office on the said date, please include referral information by Merck Oseña and leave comment on this post.

Through a Rapist Eyes

2011-03-06T18:00:00.007+08:00

Got a post from Facebook about an assault or attack made on a girl who was a friend of Jim Paredes' son. The girl was able to survive the attack and the assailant was arrested and currently in custody. It was known she had the courage to fight the attacker due to the article "Through a Rapist Eyes". I would like to re-post this article in my blog so that readers will be informed and may forward this to their friends and loved ones.

THROUGH A RAPIST EYES

A group of rapists and date rapists in prison were interviewed on what they look for in a potential victim and here are some interesting facts:

1. The first thing men look for in a potential victim is hairstyle. They are most likely to go after a woman with a ponytail, bun, braid or other hairstyle that can easily be grabbed. They are also likely to go after a woman with long hair. Women with short hair are not common targets.

2. The second thing men look for is clothing. They will look for women who's clothing is easy to remove quickly. Many of them carry scissors around to cut clothing.

3. They also look for women using their cell phone, searching through their purse or doing other activities while walking because they are off guard and can be easily overpowered.

4. The number one place women are abducted from or attacked at is grocery store parking lots.

5. Number two is office parking lots/garages.

6. Number three is public restrooms.

7. The thing about these men is that they are looking to grab a woman and quickly move her to a second location where they don't have to worry about getting caught.

8. If you put up any kind of a fight at all, they get discouraged because it only takes a minute or two for them to realize that going after you isn't worth it because it will be time-consuming.

9. These men said they would not pick on women who have umbrellas,or other similar objects that can be used from a distance, in their hands.

10. Keys are not a deterrent because you have to get really close to the attacker to use them as a weapon. So, the idea is to convince these guys you're not worth it.

POINTS THAT WE SHOULD REMEMBER:

1. If someone is following behind you on a street or in a garage or with you in an elevator or stairwell, look them in the face and ask them a question, like what time is it, or make general small talk: can't believe it is so cold out here, we're in for a bad winter. Now that you've seen their faces and could identify them in a line- up, you lose appeal as a target.

2. If someone is coming toward you, hold out your hands in front of you and yell Stop or Stay back! Most of the rapists this man talked to said they'd leave a woman alone if she yelled or showed that she would not be afraid to fight back. Again, they are looking for an EASY target.

3. If you carry pepper spray (this instructor was a huge advocate of it and carries it with him wherever he goes,) yelling I HAVE PEPPER SPRAY and holding it out will be a deterrent.

4. If someone grabs you, you can't beat them with strength but you can do it by outsmarting them. If you are grabbed around the waist from behind, pinch the attacker either under the arm between the elbow and armpit or in the upper inner thigh - HARD. One woman in a class this guy taught told him she used the underarm pinch on a guy who was trying to date rape her and was so upset she broke through the skin and tore out muscle strands the guy needed stitches. Try pinching yourself in those places as hard as you can stand it; it really hurts.

5. After the initial hit, always go for the groin. I know from a particularly unfortunate experience that if you slap a guy's parts it is extremely painful. You might think that you'll anger the guy and make him want to hurt you more, but the thing these rapists told our instructor is that they want a woman who will not cause him a lot of trouble. Start causing trouble, and he's out of there.

6. When the guy puts his hands up to you, grab his first two fingers and bend them back as far as possible with as much pressure pushing down on them as possible. The instructor did it to me without using much pressure, and I ended up on my knees and both knuckles cracked audibly.

7. Of course the things we always hear still apply. Always be aware of your surroundings, take someone with you if you can and if you see any odd behavior, don't dismiss it, go with your instincts. You may feel little silly at the time, but you'd feel much worse if the guy really was trouble.

FINALLY, PLEASE REMEMBER THESE AS WELL...

I know you are smart enough to know these pointers but there will be some, where you will go "hmm I must remember that" after reading, forward it to someone you care about, never hurts to be careful in this crazy world we live in.

1. Tip from Tae Kwon Do: The elbow is the strongest point on your body. If you are close enough to use it, do it.

2. Learned this from a tourist guide to New Orleans : if a robber asks for your wallet and/or purse, DO NOT HAND IT TO HIM. Toss it away from you.... chances are that he is more interested in your wallet and/or purse than you and he will go for the wallet/purse. RUN LIKE MAD IN THE OTHER DIRECTION!

3. If you are ever thrown into the trunk of a car: Kick out the back tail lights and stick your arm out the hole and start waving like crazy. The driver won't see you but everybody else will. This has saved lives.

4. Women have a tendency to get into their cars after shopping,eating, working, etc., and just sit (doing their checkbook, or making a list, etc. DON'T DO THIS! The predator will be watching you, and this is the perfect opportunity for him to get in on the passenger side,put a gun to your head, and tell you where to go. AS SOON AS YOU CLOSE the DOORS , LEAVE.

5. A few notes about getting into your car in a parking lot, or parking garage:

a. Be aware: look around your car as someone may be hiding at the passenger side , peek into your car, inside the passenger side floor, and in the back seat. (DO THIS TOO BEFORE RIDING A TAXI CAB).
SPIDERHAM NOTE: It will also be helpful if you can take the license plate and name of the cab and send it through SMS to the people you know.

b. If you are parked next to a big van, enter your car from the passenger door. Most serial killers attack their victims by pulling them into their vans while the women are attempting to get into their cars.

c. Look at the car parked on the driver's side of your vehicle, and the passenger side. If a male is sitting alone in the seat nearest your car, you may want to walk back into the mall, or work, and get a guard/policeman to walk you back out. IT IS ALWAYS BETTER TO BE SAFE THAN SORRY. (And better paranoid than dead.)

6. ALWAYS take the elevator instead of the stairs. (Stairwells are horrible places to be alone and the perfect crime spot).

7. If the predator has a gun and you are not under his control, ALWAYS RUN! The predator will only hit you (a running target) 4 in 100 times; And even then, it most likely WILL NOT be a vital organ. RUN!

8. As women, we are always trying to be sympathetic: STOP IT! It may get you raped, or killed. Ted Bundy, the serial killer, was a good-looking, well educated man, who ALWAYS played on the sympathies of unsuspecting women. He walked with a cane, or a limp, and often asked "for help" into his vehicle or with his vehicle, which is when he abducted his next victim.

Please have some time to read and forward this article to all your loved ones and friends. This article is not written not only for the ladies but also for the men who should forward this to their mother, wives, sisters, daughter and others.

Taxi Fare Increase - Comparison Table

2011-03-01T18:00:00.004+08:00

It is March already and in two months time majority of the taxi cabs will have their meters re-calibrated with the new fare increase applied. Last December, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) announced that they have approved the petition for fare increase on taxi cabs. The new flagdown rate for taxicabs will be up to P40 from the previous P30. There will also be a new rate of P3.50 for every succeeding 300 meters from the present rate of P2.50.

It's a good thing that I'm still able to ride uncalibrated cabs since its not their schedule yet. But when June comes, expect that every taxi cabs you will hail will charge with the increased rate. I was fiddling with Microsoft Excel and decided to create a table to compare how much will I pay for now compared from what I used to pay before the fare increase. I will be sharing the table up to the 300 PHP value in the old fare system.

This table should be able to estimate how much should we be paying on a constant route that we normally take. This information should not prevent us from using taxi especially if there's a need to do so. My advise is to ride in pair or more to reduce the fare since you will be sharing when you pay. Hope this information help you.

Wide Tube 2.0: Just Go With It

2011-02-28T18:00:00.008+08:00

What would happen if you are used to tell lies to get laid? What happens when you realize that it's time to stop the lies but you cannot control it anymore? Do you Just Go With It as the title suggest in Adam Sandler's latest movie with Jennifer Aniston and Brooklyn Decker.

Danny (Sandler) discovered that he can get women by pretending he had a bad marriage. He had been in this scheme for 20 years after his bride-to-be broke his heart and the only people who knows this are his clinic assistant Katherine (Aniston)and his cousin Eddie.

Then along came Palmer (Decker) whom he met at a party and Danny admitted making a connection with her. The morning after having sex, Palmer discovers the ring and assumes him of being married and tells him not to see her again.

Instead of telling the truth to Palmer, Danny concocted a new story that he is getting a divorce and when Palmer asked to meet his soon-to-be-ex-wife, "Devlin Adams", he asked Katherine to pose as her. More trouble comes when Katherine's kids get involved and blackmails Danny in front of Palmer of getting to Hawaii. They run into the real Devlin Adams (Nicole Kidman) and Katherine asks Danny to pose as his husband as Devlin hates single mothers. As expected, more trouble comes as the two (Danny and Katherine) creates lies to cover the truth they don't want others to know.

The concept to 'just go with it' as the title implies came from Katherine's daughter Maggie as she tells them the concept she have learned in acting school. I will say that this is another Adam Sandler movie good for the family. It never fails to include family values like good parenting. I will give this movie 9 out of 10 rating.

This also makes Brooklyn Decker's debut movie and I am looking forward to see her more in other movies. This is one of the Adam Sandler movie I watched without Rob Schneider making a cameo. It is also the second time I heard the characters mocking Sandler for not being physically fit. One of the thing I liked the most is the sound track which includes Party Ben's mash-up of General Public's Tenderness which was a hit in the 80's with Rihanna's Umbrella. This was played while Katherine and Danny is shopping at Rodeo Drive. I am looking forward to get the original sound track (OST) album of this movie once it is available. Enjoy the video of the mash-up from Youtube.

All images came from Internet Movie Data Base

Lessons Learned at the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

2011-02-23T18:00:00.005+08:00

Here are some of the list of things I learned when I watched the 16th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta:

TRAVEL TIPS

I think most buses bound to north pass and stops at Mabalacat Bus Terminal. If you are going to take the bus ride, make sure you contact the bus company to check for their schedules. I was able to call Five Star Bus Company and checked their schedule, it turns that they have buses leaving the Cubao terminal every 30 minutes.

If you have to bring your own vehicle on an event like this, make sure to allot 3-5 hours before the event schedule to give you ample time. Expect a heavy flow of traffic on the way to the site and also going inside to the parking area.

NO DIRECT TRANSPORT FROM SM TO MANILA?

I also learned that SM City Clark does not have a transport terminal for AUV bound to Manila. This was the first SM Mall I have been to that does not have a transport system direct to Manila. I find it too bad since Clark, Pampanga is just 2 hours away from Manila and most of SM malls in the province I have been has a terminal for either buses or AUV's bound to Manila.

FOOD AND DRINKS

I know that we will be staying in an open field for a long period of time so I packed 3 bottles of 1 liter water. It was really heavy in my bag but it pays to rehydrate once your in the open area under the harsh sunlight.

I also prepared some sandwiches and some muffins. I believe that food may be sold at stalls or kiosks but since this will be an event, I expect that food business owners will take this opportunity to earn by selling foods at a higher rate. Why did I prefer bread products? These are less salty and will make sure to give you a fill in your tummy.

SUN PROTECTION - A MUST HAVE!

Since we originally planned to stay the whole day I brought my own sun protection lotion. You need to protect your skin if you are going to stay under the intense heat of the sun.

I also managed to wear an arm warmer since I did not apply the sun protection lotion to my whole arm for economic reasons - a bottle of this almost costs 300 PHP. The arm warmer blocks the heat but comfortable since the fabric is breathable.

Having a hand towel is also helpful to protect your head. I do not wear caps because sometimes it prevents the circulation of oxygen in your head that may cause dizziness. I also find sunglasses useful when I am not taking pictures. You really need to protect your eyes from the bright sunlight to avoid eye related injuries in the future.

TRIPOD, TO BRING OR NOT TO BRING?

Never bring a tripod in an event like this one. First, it's a day activity and you won't be shooting in low light environment so tripod will be useless. The tripod added more weight to my bag and that proved to be a trouble especially if you are walking long distance. The only benefit of having a tripod is I was able to take pictures of my self with my own camera:

The tripod also proved to be useful when we set-up a makeshift tent before lunch time.

VOLUNTEERING ON ACTIVITIES

Sometimes these events allows audience participation in their activities. Make sure to know what exactly you will be doing because even the organizers assures you that everything will be safe. Sometimes volunteering hurts like what happened to these girls who were left on the runway under the heat of the sun during a rescue demonstration by the Philippine Navy.

What should have been a short ordeal of harsh heat for the rescue demo becomes a 20 minute nonstop talk from the Navy officers of things that can be easily summarized in short span of time.

BAD FOOD COURT EXPERIENCE

One last thing, if you ever go to any mall food court and saw Inihaw Express, never order their Junior Chicken Barbecue meal. I thought it was something delicious but I was greatly disappointed to find 3 chicken bones skewered in a barbecue stick. There was only a small edible portion of the chicken and I was not able to enjoy it.

My Hot Air Balloon Fiesta Experience

2011-02-21T12:00:00.006+08:00

I have been longing to see the hot air balloon show since last year. So when I learned that another show will be made this year at Clark Air Field, Pampanga, I made sure that I will be able to watch and take pictures of this event.

I already planned of renting a van if my office mates will want to go but it seems they have other plans during that weekend. So I have checked some blogs on how to get there if I will be commuting all the way. Special thanks to Pinoy Adventurista's guide on how to get there, it was a great help.

So I packed my things the night before and made sure necessary food and drinks are prepared. I was to travel solo mode and will just meet Gepay and her Fluffy on site since they will be coming from Bulacan. When I woke up at 1AM I got a text from Jeff that he'll be coming with me. So we meet-up at Five Star Bus station around 3AM and asked which bus would be passing Dau terminal and we were pointed to a bus that is already leaving. We enjoyed watching the on-board movie "Si Agimat at si Enteng Kabisote" while I endure the cold morning breeze in the slightly opened window.

We arrived at the central bus terminal in Dau around 5AM and too bad I won't be able to finish the movie. It seems all buses going to the north stops at this terminal. We then ride a jeep to Clark's Main Gate where a heavy line of people is waiting for a jeepney to the main site. It seems the passenger queue is not followed so I decided to do a free-for-all system when a jeepney arrives.

Upon catching a ride in one of the parked jeepney, we were informed by the driver that he'll be taking a different route since the main way to the site is almost heavy with a lot of vehicles into Clark airfield. Since it was a different route, we will be forced to walk a little bit according to him. What turns to be a little bit was a whopping average of 3 KM to the site's main gate. And Jeff was thinking that it was like Amazing Race that we need to be there before the sun shows up or else we'll burn (yes! we're vampires! bwahaha!). Good thing Gepay already bought the ticket in advance when they came earlier than us and it saved us more time.

While walking and running to the main gate, we were able to see these two light aircraft hovering above the site:

It was around 6-7 AM when we were arrived at the viewer's area because the crew just starting to set up their hot air balloons:

Pirate inspired balloon. Ahoy! Captain!

I just wonder what will happen if Super Mario got a load of this mushroom.

Some of the balloons flew easily filling the skies with colored bubbles.

This was one of the two locally sponsored balloon. Too bad it did not flew for some reason.

I did not fail to shoot Mt. Arayat showing her majestic form complimented by the sunrise.

Darth Vader's big head was such a snub that he did not care to look back at the people...

... good thing Darth Langaw managed to entertain the people when his big balloon head left.

This drifter was among one of the attraction in the show, and later he was used as a target for bomb dropping. Too bad the attackers - light planes shown below, were not a good bomb dropper.

This guy must be one of the organizer making everything in order. I even named him the Windmill guy due to the windmill in his front and back pockets.

The host for the whole program was fun to listen as he was knowledgeable with aviation.

At around 10 AM, it was announced that sky divers already dropped from the plane. It was amazing how a tiny dot in the sky drops with a parachute:

I am not really sure if these posters will protect me from heat. It seems it's giving more heat to me.

Besides watching the hot air balloons, planes and skydivers, there was a lot of thing people can do within the event area. There was an area for kite flying:

Flying clown fish? Didn't even know that Nemo can fly until I have seen this one.

Too bad I didn't see this kite fly :(

When the large number of people went to shaded area to avoid the searing heat of the day, the viewing zone has become a large playground for the children:

It was fun to see a little girl in a navy uniform.

The site was also near the Clark International Airport so we were able to catch a glimpse of courier planes with international route:

Too bad I did not see this one flying.

We were also able to watch a rescue simulation exhibition of the Philippine Navy:

I pity this female volunteer from the audience because she went to stay in the runway for almost 20 minutes while the 2 navy personnel keep on talking on the microphone for an information we could get over the internet.

After the rescue exhibition we decided to grab some lunch and went to SM City Clark. We stayed at Starbucks to let our body rest for a bit. Jeff wanted to go back to shoot until the sun sets but I informed that we might have difficulty of getting back by that time so we went back to the bus terminal were we came from and rode the Victory Liner bound to Manila. A funny thing happened upon riding the bus. The on-board movie was "Si Agimat at si Enteng Kabisote" and the scene currently played was the scenes before we alighted that morning from a different bus. So I was able to enjoy the hot air balloon show and was able to finish a movie at the same time!

Hammy's Hangout: Foot Zone

2011-02-08T18:00:00.001+08:00

I have been longing to go to Foot Zone, Greenhills because I have been feeling a lot of stress lately especially with my back. I am not sure if this is caused by work, lack of sleep, or pressure from getting a date this coming Valentine's day (Ha!Ha!Ha!). I have been asking friends or colleagues to have body massage with me for the past 2 weeks but to no avail nobody heeded my call.

So last Sunday, I decided to go alone. This will be my second time to go to Foot Zone and the first was last November. As advised by menardconnect on his post, it is recommended to call them for a reservation instead of being a walk-in client. This way, you will avoid the hassle of waiting for an available therapist or room.

So I called a reservation for 6 PM and I was asked by the receptionist which one I prefer, a local therapist or a Chinese specialist. I have asked him what's the difference between the two, he informed that the Chinese specialist knows acupuncture and can identify the pressure points needed to be attended to. I opted for the regular therapist since I do not feel the need of any specialist as of the moment.

I arrived past 6 PM and I was immediately ushered to a small room with two lazy boy chair. One thing I like about their rooms is that they have cable television that you can watch while waiting for your therapist or even during the massage session.

Their massage style differs greatly with the style we normally see in the other massage clinics as they specialize in foot reflexology. They use less oil so you feel less grease after the session. They also have this wooden hammer or mallet tapped in your leg area continuously which at first will be uncomfortable but will provide soothing relief afterward.

My overall experience with Foot Zone was one of the best. I would recommend you to visit them especially if you want a good massage service. A session that usually takes an hour and 20 minutes will cost 500 PHP for regular therapist and 600 PHP for the specialist. I will say this is a good deal for a relaxing massage.

Here are the address details of Foot Zone: G/F Richbelt Tower 17 Annapolis St., Greenhills, San Juan

How to get there:

Public Transportation: Take a bus or jeepney that passes Greenhills Shopping Center. You may take a cab once you're in Greenhills shopping center or ride a jeepney bound to Crame with terminal at the back of the shopping center.

Foot Zone is open from 1:00 PM to 11:30 PM during Mondays thru Fridays and 11:00 AM to 11:30 PM during weekend. For inquiries and reservations, please call their land line 7051301/7267742 or cellphone 09062616626/09214988889.

Hammy's Surprise: Thank You

2011-02-03T14:30:00.000+08:00

I would like to thank all the people who continuously patronized my business for the past 2 years. I hope to continue serving you in the future!

Happy Chinese New Year Again!

Hammy's Surprise: Chinese New Year Giveaway 8

2011-02-03T13:45:00.002+08:00

The rabbit keeps on giving surprise!

Sun Cellular
Card Number: 100846911
PIN: 37446
Dial *220# + Card Number + PIN + # & Press Send
Please do hit the comments if you successfully loaded the PIN.

Hammy's Surprise: Chinese New Year Giveaway 7

2011-02-03T12:30:00.002+08:00

My rabbit brings a gift for you!

Globe
Card Number: 09799370260
PIN: 544386
Dial 223 & Press Send + Card Number + PIN + #
Please hit the comments if you successfully loaded the PIN.

Hammy's Surprise: Chinese New Year Giveaway 6

2011-02-03T11:15:00.002+08:00

The rabbit keeps on giving surprise!

Sun Cellular
Card Number: 104474833
PIN: 23894
Dial *220# + Card Number + PIN + # & Press Send
Please do hit the comments if you successfully loaded the PIN.

Hammy's Surprise: Chinese New Year Giveaway 5

2011-02-03T09:30:00.001+08:00

Is the rabbit never running out of presents?

Smart Buddy
PIN: 39665614813412
Dial 1510 + PIN & Press Send
Please do hit the comments if you successfully loaded the PIN.

Hammy's Surprise: Chinese New Year Giveaway 4

2011-02-03T07:45:00.002+08:00

Another gift from the rabbit hole!

Sun Cellular
Card Number: 107790721
PIN: 80474
Dial *220# + Card Number + PIN + # & Press Send
Please do hit the comments if you successfully loaded the PIN.

Hammy's Surprise: Chinese New Year Giveaway 3

2011-02-03T05:00:00.001+08:00

The rabbit brings another gift for you!

Globe
Card Number: 0979577131
PIN: 983664
Dial 223 & Press Send + Card Number + PIN + #
Please hit the comments if you successfully loaded the PIN.

Hammy's Surprise: Chinese New Year Giveaway 2

2011-02-03T03:45:00.002+08:00

Another present from the rabbit!

Sun Cellular
Card Number: 106046342
PIN: 93618
Dial *220# + Card Number + PIN + # & Press Send
Please do hit the comments if you successfully loaded the PIN.

Hammy's Surprise: Chinese New Year Giveaway 1

2011-02-03T02:15:00.001+08:00

What does the rabbit bring this Chinese New Year?

Smart Buddy
PIN: 19865514320328
Dial 1510 + PIN & Press Send
Please do hit the comments if you successfully loaded the PIN.

Happy Chinese New Year!

2011-02-03T00:00:00.003+08:00

The Rabbit has come out of its hole!

For all who knows what it means, a free gift will be received. Starting this midnight until noon a simple token will be given to those who continuously patronized my small business.

Feel free to hit the comments section for information!

Hammy's Pick: Samsung Galaxy 551

2011-01-26T12:00:00.001+08:00

Finally! I was able to come back to blogging after almost 3 weeks of hiatus. So what kept me busy from posting for that long period of time? Let's see. I had extended holiday season, met with college friends, had to adjust for my new schedule at work and I just bought myself a smart phone.

This is the first time I am going to have a smart phone. I have been thinking since last December to upgrade my mobile phone since it's more than a year old. And so I have checked the net and even asked my friends what they recommend. I also checked the stores to see what are the models currently in the market.

Then I saw Samsung Galaxy 551 in the display case and I was instantly attracted to the phone. But before I decided to buy it, I asked one of my colleague who is fond of smart phones to check if Samsung Galaxy 551 is a good phone. Upon checking the phone's specifications, he gave me a thumbs up to go for the phone.

I am not really a techie guy that can tell you what are the good functionality of the phone. I can say it's good with the large screen which is a good feature of a smart phone. Since I am adjusting with the touch screen, the sliding QWERTY keyboard makes sending SMS easier instead of using the screen keyboard.

One main reason I wanted a smart phone is because of the mobile internet functionality which is easier compared to ordinary mobile phones. I can now update my status on Facebook wherever there's a Wi-Fi access in the area. I might also post blog entries in the future using this phone.

They also say that with the Android OS, applications are free since it is open source. Hopefully, I will be able to post apps review in the future. For the mean time I'll enjoy using the phone as I explore its full potential.

Welcome 2011!

2011-01-01T00:00:00.001+08:00

Let me greet you all with a Happy New Year!

Hammy's Hangout: SM Megamall's Castle

2010-12-26T20:00:00.005+08:00

After leaving the LEGO booth I noticed that there is a large back draft of SM Megamall's activity center (former skating rink). Upon checking the section on the balcony, I saw a Castle back draft set up like a stage.

Upon a closer look, it looks like the castle from Disney's movie opening sequence. This back draft is perfect spot for picture taking with the family this holiday season.

This is another perfect way of spending your holiday with your loved ones. The castle is located in the activity center of SM Megamall.

Hammy's Hangout: LEGO City Fire Academy

2010-12-26T12:00:00.006+08:00

The LEGO booth entitled LEGO City Fire Academy features Fireman theme on all the sets displayed on glass casings. The 4 glass casings contains different sets of emergency situation where fireman and rescue teams are needed like sea and air rescue, burning buildings, and construction safety settings.

The booth also contains an activity area wherein children can enjoy two things. They can either play by creating their own LEGO toy or join the construction of a giant fire truck by creating larger version of LEGO blocks.

The tray containing white blocks is tempting me.

So I got a base platform with a pattern on it.

It's just like making a larger version of the blocks.

It is 6 times larger to be exact since we were asked to construct 6 layers of block for the pattern.

I was just able to create three blocks since I'll be going somewhere else.

Finished blocks are stacked according to color.

This is the Firetruck scale model.

This is the larger version of the Firetruck.

The blocks that I have constructed earlier will be included in the truck later.

Children and children at heart who played LEGO in their younger years like me will surely enjoy this activity area when you visit SM Megamall. LEGO City Exhibit is located on 3rd Level above the activity area (formerly ice skating rink) and will be there until January 4, 2010.

Hammy's Hangout: Araneta Center

2010-12-24T12:00:00.005+08:00

I was going to watch a movie in Gateway but my screening time will start within 2 hours. To kill some time, I decided to walk around Araneta Center to see if there are other attraction the place has to offer since Christmas season is already here.

Good thing I have Dietrich with me with the 35mm prime lens I have just acquired recently. I think this is the best time to check how my new lens will work with night shots.

This is the Gateway's Christmas Tree located in the 2nd level of the mall.

This Christmas tree is located in the corner of Gen. Roxas and Gen. Araneta inside Araneta Center.

What's amazing with this Christmas Tree is the light's blink at the beat of the background music.

You can also check the GIF image I have created from the pictures I have taken.

GIF Image courtesy of WEGIF.

Enjoy watching the video I have taken with my camera phone.

If you wanted to enjoy your Christmas celebration make sure to visit this wonderful Christmas Tree at the Araneta Center.

Hammy's Hangout: Banchetto Experience

2010-12-23T12:00:00.001+08:00

I have been hearing this Banchetto thing for quite some time and it really aroused my curiosity. My office mates told me that this was like a food fair in Ortigas center that starts around Friday midnight until Saturday noon.

We have been planning to check the place one Friday night since my shift ends at 12 AM. I think 2 or 3 Fridays had passed due to either the rain or everybody were busy to go. Finally, after several weeks of planning to go there, we were able to see what really this Banchetto is all about. I was not able to bring Dietrich the first time and this was taken 2 weeks after our first visit.

Upon arriving at the corner of Garnet and Emerald Road we finally see the clusters of food kiosk occupying the half section of Emerald Road (F. Ortigas Jr. Road). As I have seen it, Banchetto was a night food market with not less than 50 booths offering different kind of foods from grilled to full meals and other delicacies.

Based on Ortigas Center Association's booth, the organizer, Banchetto is the first weekly overnight "Street Food Fiesta" which happens every Friday midnight at Emerald Road and at Forum Robinsons every Wednesday and Thursday night.

So we decided to look for the famous Monster Burger that was usually the talk of the people who have been there. The Monster Burger kiosk was jam-packed with too many people lining up for their half-pound or quarter-pound burger patties with your choice of it being a sandwich or a rice meal. Let me just show you how my Banchetto experience went through.

The Monster Burger kiosk.

This is a burger's paradise.

Check out the price.

Lumpiang Shanghai, Lechon Kawali and other fried goodies.

Food fiesta like this won't be complete without the Silog meals.

You may avoid too much of this if you love your heart.

I think he won't last until morning.

Sushi to go.

This is for people who likes Mongolian meals.

Pizza Mia for those who likes Italian.

I'm not sure if these are Pretzels.

I wonder how Takoyaki taste like.

I'm not sure what this is. Feel free to hit the comments if you know.

Fresh fruit juice to quench you thirst while looking for you favorite food.

Maybe its not too late for dessert.

Christmas or not, who would not resist the smell of Bibingka being cooked.

If you want to check on how to join the Banchetto food fiesta, you may check the organizer's Multiply page here or you may visit them personally at the Banchetto kiosk at the site.

DPP Magazine Features Cosplay Photography

2010-12-21T18:00:00.006+08:00

Digital Photographer Philippines (DPP) features Alodia Gosiengfiao in the cover in their issue number 35 cover. This issue discusses all about Cosplay Photography and showcases some celebrities portraying famous comic or movie characters.

Besides Alodia's sister, Ashley, some of the celebrities featured in this issue are Diana Menezes, Bianca King, Paolo Paraiso, Bubbles Paraiso and Rhian Ramos. This issue also includes a feature special of Creative Blurs with guides about tilt-shift lenses, Lensbabies, pinhole photography, and panning techniques.

Digital Photographer Philippines is now available at your magazine stands and some book stores.

DPP Magazine Cover was scanned and watermarked for blog purposes only.

My Everyday Eveready Moments

2010-12-16T20:00:00.015+08:00

I grew up in the province where electricity was provided by a local electric cooperative. It was the early 90's and from time to time we would experience scheduled power interruptions. This might be due to the fact that the electric cooperative is just in their starting stage.

When there is a typhoon coming, you can also expect power cut-off. Since power lines are distributed through wooden electric posts, which when damaged by the typhoon, you can expect a week before power is restored.

During these times, we usually rely on flashlights during night time. And my aunt usually make sure to have a stock of batteries to make sure we won't be stumbling in the dark. So before the sun goes down, they usually asks me or my cousins to buy Eveready batteries. The funny thing is they don't say it as battery but Eveready like it was the common name for it.

I guess they grew up with Eveready ever since that the brand become synonymous with batteries like Kodak for cameras. That's not impossible upon learning that Eveready is now 110 years in the line of business.

Now that I have grown up and living in the city, power interruption is still a part of city living specially during typhoons. Although the evolution of rechargeable lights have arrived, Eveready never fails to provide power during these 'dark' times.

I hope that in the future, Eveready will continue the legacy it has given to Filipino people like what they had for the past 110 years. So that our children will still know how Eveready become part of us being prepared at all times.

UPDATE AS OF 12.22.10
You may also visit Eveready Phils. official site here and their official Facebook fan page here.

KaRUNungan 2010 - My First Run Experience

2010-12-08T12:00:00.004+08:00

I have always been invited by my friends to join fun run but I always decline them because I knew I will not be able to finish a single 3 kilometer stretch. Maybe I was just telling this to avoid stressing my body that is starting to grow bigger. I remember on my last APE (Annual Physical Exam) that I am a little overweight according to the doctor.

I decided that before the year ends I should be able to join any run. To make myself ready I trained in our office's thread mill every week for an hour. I did this to have my body in condition in case I will be deciding to run. Why the heck did I buy my running shoes for if I would not run?

And so an email regarding KaRUNungan 2010 was circulating among my officemate. It was a post from Pinoy Fitness whom I know works in another department of our company. Well this maybe my time to run since the run was for a cause so why shouldn't I give it a try.

My running buddies before the run (Photo Courtesy of Bebe Regacho)

KaRUNungan 2010 was spearheaded by the Knowledge Channel Foundation Inc. The run's main cause is to continuously provide educational programs to 2000 public elementary and high schools. This is done through all-educational cable television channel called Knowledge Channel.

And so I printed a copy of the registration form and selected 5 KM run. You may ask me why choose 5 KM when there was a 3 KM. First of all, my colleagues will be running the 5K run, it would be disappointing if I will be different from them. Second, they tell me that 3K run is too short and I should be trying the 5K to test my running capability.

And so November 28 came, the day of the run. I do have 2 things in mind that Sunday, first is that I will not collapse due to exhaustion and second to finish the run. And so after waiting for the 15K and 10K start their respective run, we watched some intermission numbers and did some warm-up exercise.

We started the 5K run afterward and we opted to be in the middle to be at par with the rest of the runners. After the first five minutes I slowed down since I cannot force myself to run or jog. I needed to finish the run but not in a way that might hurt myself. So I just walked and was left behind by my companions, they mentioned that we'll still see each other at the finish line. I then managed to use the advantage of the downward slope of the Meralco flyover and gain some distance and after sometime decided to walk again.

And so I finished the run after 54+ minutes and I was ranked around 500 out of 634 recorded 5K finisher. I think this was not bad for a newbie runner like me. Hopefully, on my next run I will be able to beat this record. Photo on left was taken 50 m to the finish line.

You may check the KaRUNungan 2010 race results here.

The Cataclysm Starts Today - A New Age Has Began

2010-12-07T20:00:00.003+08:00

It is finally here, Cataclysm has finally arrived. The third expansion of World of Warcraft has been launched today. As mentioned in my previous post so many things will be changed during this new expansion. Since there has been a lot of reports of not being able to log into the game, let's just see what really happened before the Cataclysm started.

Since I am with the Horde, let me start telling you that Garrosh Hellscream, son of Grom Hellscream, is the acting Warchief of the Horde while Thrall is in Outland to find out why Azeroth is experiencing elemental disturbances. Cairne Bloodhoof who distrusts Garrosh, challenged the latter to a duel that led to his death due to some circumstances.

On the Alliance's side, in the city of Ironforge, King Magni Bronzebeard was petrified while performing a ritual to communicate with the earth. This resulted the city under the rule of Council of Three Hammers, which consists of the Bronzebeard, Wildhammer, and Dark Iron clans.

Neltharion the Earth Warder, the dragon aspects more known now as Deathwing, emerged from the Maelstrom wrecking havoc to all of Azeroth. This resulted to coastlines destroyed while some areas were flooded like the Thousand Needles. Volcanoes also started appearing and the resulting explosions and made the lava divided most of the land forms.

With the in-game changes, the Goblins of Kezan now joins the Horde while the Worgens of Gilneas sides with the Alliance. These are the new races that can be played. The level cap was raised to 85 and a new secondary profession, Archeology, was introduced. Although there was new world added (like the Outland during the Burning Crusade, and Northrend during the Wrath of the Lich King), this expansion modified a lot of zones in Azeroth both in Kalimdor and the Eastern Kingdom. More quests has been added and a lot of things to do to endjoy the expansion game.

With these lot of changes to the new expansion, I can truly say that "A New Age Has Began".

Enjoy the Cataclysmic video from World of Warcraft's official Youtube Channel:

The Nikon Great Lens Sale

2010-12-03T20:00:00.008+08:00

I have been looking for Nikon to offer a sale on DSLR camera accessories for a long time. Finally, the long wait is finally over because from December 6 to December 31, Nikon will be offering discounts on Nikon DSLR lens.

Here are the lists of the stores that will be participating the sale event:

*Nikon Lens SALE Participating Resellers:

Columbia Head Office - Quezon City
Note: Cash payment only at the moment as we upgrade our credit card facilities

Digital Walker
• Greenbelt 5
• Trinoma
• Virramall (Nikon Concept Shop)

Tekpone
• Davao (Nikon Concept Shop)

Camerahaus
• SM North
• SM Mall of Asia
• SM Manila
• SM Megamall
• Robinsons Galleria
• Glorietta 5
• Davao
• Cebu
• Iloilo

*Participating Resellers By Order Basis Only:

Picture City
• SM Mall of Asia
• SM Fairview
• SM Pampanga
• SM Lucena
• SM Rosales
• Pasig
• Ayala Center

Perfect Shot / TCA
• SM North Edsa

JWL Int
• Mandaluyong City

CSP Digital
• Gen. Santos City

Multi-Color
• Bicol City

Cagayan Photo
• Cagayan De Oro City

Prism 2
• Baguio City

Rhabels Photo
• Kalibo Aklan

This sale will be great holiday present for all Nikon users like me so be ready for it.

Image taken from Manila Life

You may also check Whatta Queso! for some of the price listings.

*UPDATE FROM NIKON PHILIPPINES FACEBOOK FAN PAGE as of 12.08.10

The Nokia Holiday Rush Sale

2010-12-02T20:00:00.005+08:00

After having a little good deal last time, Nokia will have another one day promo sale. On December 4, 2010, Nokia will offer discounts on selected phone models up to 70% off. This will be available at selected Nokia stores nationwide.

Here are the details:
* One unit per customer
* No reservations
* Open for Cash and Straight Transactions
* Only those in line are entitled to the promo
* Terms on Condition apply on selected model

Here are some of the models with the discounted prices:
* Nokia 1280 – Php890
* Nokia 1616 – Php990
* Nokia C3 – Php4,990
* Nokia 5230 – Php4,990
* Nokia C5 – Php6,990
* Nokia C6 – Php10,990

Please take note that I am not 100% sure if the prices are really that way. This was just based from other sites who posted the same promo.

Images courtesy of Nokia Phils.

Hammy's TV: Batibot Returns on Philippine TV

2010-11-23T00:00:00.009+08:00

Yes! You read it right! Batibot, the children show which made Kuya Bodjie, Ate Sienna, Pong Pagong and Kiko Matsing a household name, is scheduled to make a comeback on Philippine free TV. TV5 formally announced that the long-time children show will be seen again starting November 27.

Batibot, which started on 1984, has been seen from almost every local channel. It started with RPN 9 (now Solar TV 9) and PTV 4 (now NBN 4), then transferred to ABS-CBN, then later transferred to GMA 7 when ABS-CBN produced its own set of children show. It was in 1996, almost a decade after it was launched, that the current host network (GMA 7) advised to cut the airing of the show. This was due to stiff competition from the rival network (ABS-CBN) and due to the fast rise of cable television which promoted Cartoon Network and Disney Channel.

Philippine Children's Television Foundation (PCTVF) which produces the show came into a partnership with TV 5 to relaunch Batibot as part of the network's response to the need for an educational show on TV. This might be a bold move for the network especially they are currently dubbed as 3rd player in race to TV ratings domination.

I hope that this new version of Batibot will be able to teach good lessons to today's children and entertain not only them but also the people who grew up with the show like me. It's just sad that Pong Pagong and Kiko Matsing will not be there when the show comes back. But no need to worry since Kapitan Basa, Manang Bola, Ning-ning, Ging-ging together with Koko Kwik Kwak will be there to continue the tradition. The puppets will be joined by Kuya Fidel (Abner Delina) and Ate Maya (Kakki Teodoro) as the new play buddies. Teodoro is more known as the female lead of High School Musical shown in Hongkong Disneyland outdoor show. Batibot will be shown weekly starting Saturday, November 27 at 8:30 - 9:00 AM.

All images came from Starmometer

Wide Tube Sneak Peak: Green Lantern Trailer

2010-11-18T18:00:00.006+08:00

Warner Bros. Picture finally released the first trailer for Green Lantern starring Ryan Reynolds portraying Hal Jordan as the DC Comics' emerald superhero.

I'm not a fan of Green Lantern character, all I know about him is he has a power ring that can create anything based from the wearer's imagination and will power. This information was based from the Green Lantern named John Stuart in the DC Animated series Justice League. This movie may be a good time to finally know how he became the Green Lantern and who are his enemies.

The movie also stars Blake Lively who plays Hal Jordan's love interest Carol Ferris. Lively is more known for her character Serena van der Woodsen in the book-based TV drama Gossip Girl.

Enjoy the first trailer courtesy of Yahoo! Movies:

Green Lantern is set to be shown in cinemas on June 17, 2011.

Hammy's TV: Imortal, Not Just Your Ordinary Vampire - Werewolf Series

2010-11-15T12:00:00.007+08:00

I have been hooked with Imortal for over a month now. When the TV series started last October, I decided to check the just first week how it will be presented. It is a spin-off series of Lobo which also stars Angel Locsin.

I thought that ABS-CBN joined the bandwagon of foreign vampire oriented TV series. Maybe they did go ride the vampire series craze like True Blood and Vampire Diaries, but with the series under the direction of Chito Roño, this is one great series to be anticipated.

Based on what I have watched, it seems the Lobo's (Werewolves) are native to this country while the vampires came from foreign lands as early as Spanish era. As the story goes, the two warring races of vampires and werewolves still have opposing faction within them. With the vampire race divided into 2 groups, one who wants supremacy against the human race led by Magnus (Jake Roxas) and Samantha Imperial (Maricar de Mesa) and the other group which has learned to control the thirst for human blood led by Roman Rodriguez (Jomari Yllana).

On the Lobo's side, which has already established a community within humans is currently divided into people who supports the current 'Punong Bantay', Lucille Zaragosa (Vivian Velez) and the other group who believes Lyka Ortega, Lia's (Angel Locsin) is not a traitor to the werewolves' race.

Upon watching it for 2 weeks, I noticed some similarities from other famous vampire shows and movies. One good example is the vampire's ability to walk in daylight possibly due to solution with sunblock properties. The concept is very similar from what the enemies from Blade (movie) apply to be able to walk in broad daylight. Samantha's birth shares similarity with the Blade's birth from the movie version wherein their mother was bitten during their pregnancy. This concept showed a great difference from Mateo Rodriguez (John Lloyd Cruz) since he is born from a human mother and vampire father which makes him unique among the other vampires.

One thing that needs improvement are the CGI's of the werewolves. I am not sure our local artistic technology needs boost or what. Right now, my schedule prevents me from watching the series, but thanks to the power of internet and video streaming, I will be able to catch the past episodes. Hopefully the plot won't go down as compared to how it performs at present.

All images came from Wikipedia

Watch Pacquiao vs. Margarito Live Online

2010-11-14T05:00:00.002+08:00

I had tickets to watch the fight live courtesy of Nuffnang but since the venue is a little far away from my place I will be staying at home.

I was able to check some links that you can watch the live streaming of Pacquiao vs. Margarito. You can check the links below courtesy of Ilemi:

http://www.iilemi.com/12420/1/Watch-Manny-Pacquiao-vs-Antonio-Margarito/
http://www.iilemi.com/12421/2/Watch-Manny-Pacquiao-vs-Antonio-Margarito/

You may also visit menardconnect to check out the other links:
http://menardconnect.com/2010/11/13/pacquiao-vs-margarito-live-via-sopcast-justin-tv-and-ilemi-com/

Disclaimer: Please take note that I cannot assure or guarantee that the link will work. It's worth a try if you want to watch the fight for free.

Pacquiao vs. Margarito - Let's Get Ready to Rumble

2010-11-14T01:00:00.004+08:00

It's just a few hours from now when the fight between Manny Pacquiao and Antonio Margarito begins. Everyone is excited placing their bets, every place in the country is busy preparing any large place to show a live broadcast of the fight.

This Sunday will again be the day where the whole country will be crime-free. It is the day where you can do anything in the middle of the streets since there will be no traffic present. It is the day where our world stop spinning as we watch Manny Pacquiao fight in the ring against Antonio Margarito.

We will see if our Pambansang Kamao will take down Tijuana Tornado. All I can say is "Let's get ready to rumble!"

Hammy's TV: Survival Guide Against Zombies

2010-11-13T00:00:00.009+08:00

These are a list of Hammy's survival tips in the event of zombie apocalypse.

Survival Lesson No. 1 - I can hear you

We have learned on the pilot episode of The Walking Dead that the "Walkers" is sensitive to sound. Once they heard a sound, they will follow where it came from because they know there's a possibility of food source on that direction.

Survival Lesson No. 2 - You lead, I'll follow

We also learned that the zombies will also follow another one because they believe the first one might be pursuing a food source. This will create a domino effect creating a horde of zombies converging at one point.

Survival Lesson No. 3 - Brainz!

Zombies can only be killed by destroying their brains. Make sure you have a baseball bat handy in case you encounter them individually. We do not recommend using guns as it might lure other zombies to you (remember Lesson 1). Decapitation might be done but the head might continue biting it left on an unsecured place.

Survival Lesson No. 4 - I can smell you

Beside from sound sensitivity, the second episode showed us that the walkers can smell any living human. As Rick Grimes theorized "If we smell like them, they won't attack us". So that's what Rick and Glen planned to escape when they were trapped on a department store. Just a precaution with this survival guide item, make sure you have a strong stomach before trying this one out and also try to check your local weather news before venturing out with zombie grimes.

AMC Network officially announced that the series has been renewed for a second season to begin in February of next year after a successful airing of the second episode.

Dietrich's Eyes: Trick or Treat at the Office

2010-11-11T18:00:00.004+08:00

We had Trick or Treat celebration at the office. Good thing my schedule, which was 8 AM - 5 PM, was just perfect for me to be able to join the company's Halloween celebration.

I thought I was just going take pictures for the event but my colleague, Beloy, who was into cosplaying asked if we can modify my Terminator T-800 mask for the event. He also asked me to wear it since it was my mask, so I decided to join the costumed party that night. Good thing I had Jeff (Mapanuri) took Dietrich to take pictures since he did not bring his camera.

So here are the pictures from our Halloween Trick or Treat celebration:

It was a nice concept for the door to be converted to a steel gate.

Truly, Halloween won't be complete without the spooky masks.

A PVZ inspired design by another department.

X-Men wall artwork made by Silas Moyong.

Trick or treat goodies for kids are always present in any Halloween party.

Then we had the costumed heroes and villains from different movies and shows:

The Executioner from Resident Evil: Afterlife

Jill Valentine from Resident Evil series

Voltes V

Kamen Rider Zolda

Gashakura from Flame of Recca is bullying Tall Nut from Plants vs. Zombies

It is really scary to receive the Termination paper from the Terminator.

White Queen's soldier from Alice in Wonderland

Queen of Heart's soldier from Alice in Wonderland

4 of Mark Beloy's costume in one picture. This is AWESOME!