Expatriating to London Q & A

Expatriating to London Q & A
By Jill Gordon
http://www.transitionsabroad.com/publications/magazine/0109/expatriating_to_london.shtml



Since my article on “London’s Overlooked Neighborhoods” ran in the March/April 2001 issue, I’ve received a deluge of emails from readers seeking advice on living and working in London. Regrettably, the process of expatriating and settling here is full of confusing and sometimes even ridiculous requirements that will acquaint you with Britain’s backward—if still lovable—idiosyncrasies before you ever leave home. Expat hopefuls may feel that the Brits are as keen on keeping foreigners out of their dreary isle as they are on keeping out rabies. Nevertheless, Britain hosts a thriving community of American expatriates.

How can I become eligible to work in the U.K.?

To legally hold a job in the U.K. you need a working visa from the British Embassy in the U.S. Unfortunately, obtaining a work visa is a process that can only be undertaken by an employer who wants to hire you and can demonstrate why a particular American candidate fits that job better than any EU candidate.

To make matters worse, work permits can only be secured for certain professions (not for clerical jobs or nannies, for example). For specific information on work permit procedures and availability check out www.workpermits.gov.uk.

Can’t I just move to the U.K. and then look for a job?

Technically, it is illegal for Americans to enter the U.K. and begin job-hunting and interviewing when they’re on a tourist visa. Actually, many people do it.

How can I legally find a job in the U.K. if I cannot job search in the U.K.?

There is no easy answer to this most popular of questions. It is possible to search for jobs in the U.K. over the Internet. The best job bank I’ve seen so far for London jobs is The Guardian, a major newspaper here in London. You can find the job listings online at www.jobsunlimited.co.uk. Other popular Internet sites with tons of London job listings include www.monster.co.uk and www.jobsite.co.uk.

Two sites specifically for international candidates looking for a job abroad (although they don’t post nearly the number or variety of vacancies that U.K. job boards do) are www.overseasjobs.com and www.escapeartist.com.

Another option is to contact multinational U.S.-based companies and inquire about jobs in their London offices. My husband, for example, found a job in London after meeting with the New York office of an investment bank and interviewing via teleconference with its London office. (Investment banks and news organizations have traditionally been a major source of jobs for Americans in London.)

Once I’ve found a job, how can I find housing in London?

Regardless of whether you are interested in renting or buying in the U.K., your first step in house hunting should be to contact an estate agent. With links to many estate agents and neighborhood descriptions www.net-lettings.co.uk is a great place to start.

The cost of housing in London has exploded over the past few years. Rent can currently range anywhere from £100 per week (approximately $623 per month) to £700 per week ($4,515 per month) for a 1-bedroom apartment. (Rental prices for flats are priced on a weekly rate, and the British calculate 4.3 weeks in a month.)

Where in London should I live?

London is an endless series of interconnected neighborhoods and villages, each with its own distinct character. So choosing your location is very important.

If it’s imperative that you live in the most central and fashionable districts of London, the neighborhoods of Chelsea, Knights-bridge, Mayfair, Notting Hill, Soho, and South Kensington are the places to start. If you’re looking for more affordable (and less centrally located) housing but don’t want to sacrifice atmosphere, check out Battersea, Bayswater, Clapham, Fulham, Islington, and Maida Vale.

Two invaluable resources for the London house-hunter are Where to Live in London and London Property Guide, which describe neighborhoods, price ranges, and the London housing market in general. Find them at major U.K. bookstores. Living in London: A Practical Guide (£16), published each year by London’s Junior League (011-44-20-7499-8159), covers everything from housing and taxes to cultural activities and is stuffed with priceless information compiled by past London expats.

In order to succeed in expatriating to the U.K., you’ll need lots of patience and even more determination. But for almost every American I know here in London it’s been worth it.

JILL GORDAN, who lives in London, is a regular contributor to Transitions Abroad.

Cabal PH Serious Game Offenses and Hack Policy

Serious Game Offenses and Hack Policy
http://forums.e-games.com.ph/index.php?showtopic=232



Important: Players are advised to safe-guard their own accounts as they are responsible for any actions done using it. Accounts that are caught for illegal activities will face penalties as stated, regardless of whether the illegal activities were done by the rightful owner or otherwise.
Please be guided accordingly of the Game Policy, Penalty and Offenses

Game Hacking
Usage of third party software, memory editors, trainers or debuggers (Hack tools) in altering the Game which may/may not lead to an unfair advantage in game play over other players. (E.g. Speed hacks, god mode hacks, auto-click, auto-loot, no skill cool down hacks.)

Offense: Damage Hacking, Map Hacking, Nation Hacking, 2-Slot Item Hacking
Penalty: Permanent ACCOUNT BAN (no chance for Bail-out)

Offense: Botting/Speedhacking

e-Games does not intend to legalize the use of bots. Despite our best efforts to educate players why botting is illegal, people will still find ways to create and use these programs for CABAL.

The penalty system is designed to penalize players for the use of bot/hack programs. It is also designed to give selected game offenders a chance to redeem themselves and do the right thing which is to play without using bots.

Please find the new bot/hack penalty and fine release table (applicable to BOT Users and Speedhackers only)

(IMG:http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/6302/1111rp4.jpg)

Players must validate their mobile phone before they can avail of the Bot/Hack Penalty and Release service. Please be reminded that the system will automatically deduct the FINES from your e-Games Account. Rest assured that all those accused of violating the anti-bot/hack policies will be investigated. If found guilty, the accounts will be frozen until the player opts to pay the penalty or fines.

Should the blocked user have insufficient EP Balance to pay the penalty, the user can just TOP-UP the EP Amount required to pay the penalty or wait for the duration of the Penalty to expire.

First time offenders may either wait for the 30-day ban to end to have their account released or pay the fine of 20EP.

Second time offenders who are caught will be banned for 90 days. Or you could pay the hefty fee of 150EP to release your account.

Third and fourth time offenders will be banned permanently. Or you can chose to pay the 500EP and the 1000EP fines respectively to release your accounts.

Offenders who are caught the fifth time will be banned permanently from playing CABAL. And no amount of EPs will get your character released.

Gamers can locate the PENALTY PAYMENT Pages in the Account Management Section/WELCOME Page of the e-Games Portal after they log-in.

Penalty for Requesting of Game Hacks or Hacking websites
30-Day In-Game ban

Penalty for Selling or Advertising of BOT/HACK Tools/Site
Indefinite account Suspension to PERMANENT Account Suspension depending on the gravity of offense


Exploitation of Bugs/Glitches
It is inevitable to encounter bugs or glitches in all games. Players who discover any bugs or glitches in game should report the situation to the Community Moderators immediately. Players will be penalized if they are found to be making use of the bug/glitch for their own interest, regardless if the course of action may or may not lead to an unfair advantage in game play over other players.

Penalty for Exploitation of Bugs/Glitches: 30-Day In-game ban

Promoting of Private Servers
Any attempt to advertise private servers for CABAL Online is strictly prohibited as it will greatly affect the community, and may possibly lead to scamming of players’ login information.

Penalty for Promoting Private Servers
Permanent CABAL Online account suspension

Account Scamming/Phishing
Account Scam
Any attempt to induce another player in revealing his/her user ID and/or password through any means.
Penalty for Account Scamming: Permanent CABAL Online Account Ban
All Account Scamming reports should be supported with in-game screenshots. These reports will be subject to thorough investigation and verification.


Use of Prohibited IGNs/Impersonation
For simple reference, avoid:

1. Impersonation of GMs, CMs, Moderators, E-Games Staff, NPCs that will mislead or cause confusion to other players.
2. Sexual context.
3. Obscene body organs.
4. Vulgarity or otherwise offensive, or may cause confusion.
5. Names that is or may be illegal or is or may be protected by trademark or other proprietary rights laws.

If we believe that the account was created to mislead, confuse or annoy other players with the spelling of the name, the administrator will limit the account/game access and request the player to delete the game character. It is suggested that the players find other alternatives and do not use the choice of name in doubt.

Penalty for Use of Prohibited IGNs/Impersonation
- Temporary Account Suspension (maximum of 30 Days) and/or Character Deletion

No Compensation Rule and Disclaimer
Effective immediately, we shall no longer compensate hacked/scammed items or gold/In-game currency. A player is responsible for the security and confidentiality of his/her account password, including the various uses of the password, whether authorized or unauthorized. E-Games does not guarantee that its portal and corresponding game websites are free of any harmful software, and that the same is hack-proof. Account Security is therefore the sole responsibility of the account holder. As such, you are earnestly enjoined to take all security measures reasonably available to safeguard the operating system and accounts when accessing the Games and the websites.

E-Games reserves the right to deny any request for item return, compensation, character restoration and account reset. The company shall not be responsible in any way for loss or damage to any player’s account including but not limited to, character statistics and skills, account particulars and items lost. In no event shall the company be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, exemplary or consequential damages.

We advise all gamers to be vigilant in protecting their own game accounts.

Changing your account passwords on a regular basis is a good start. Also, please be vigilant in checking the details of the in-game items you will be trading with other gamers before accepting a trade. Lost items due to negligence in trading transactions will not be compensated.

To check out additional Account Security Tips, please visit the Account Security Section of our Community Forums.


In case a player insists and strongly believes that he/she was blocked unjustly, he/she can request for a reinvestigation.

Request for Reinvestigation [7-Day processing after the receipt of original affidavit]

Requirements:
1. HELPDESK Ticket containing the following information:
Your Character Name:
Your Server:
Your Statement:

2. Attached copy [image format] of a notarized affidavit stating the user of the said account did not use a Third Party BOT/Hack Program.
3. Original Copy [to follow] of the Affidavit should be mailed to the e-Games Office:

CABAL TEAM
IP E-Games
34th Floor Tower II RCBC Plaza
Ayala Avenue, Makati City

Please be guided accordingly and help maintain CABAL hack/bot-free!
Thank you and happy e-Gaming!

MU Season 4 Preview (Game Guide)

MU Season 4 Preview (Game Guide)
http://forums.mobiusgames.net/index.php?showtopic=1108



- New Quest (Quests are like BC,DS,CC then there will be another one...)
- New Mass Event Map (like CW, CS, KE)
- New Items
- New Sets for each char
- New Character (SUMMONER / BLOODY SUMMONER / DIMENSION SUMMONER)
- New Wings for each class, can only wear at level 400
- New Job Change at level 400
- New Exc. Items


3rd Wing Combination:

>> 1st Combination (Feather of Condor)
> Required Combination Material (Max Combination Success rate is 60%)
- 1(one) +9 Level 2 Wing with +4 option or higher(auto regen 1% or higher works too)
- 1(one) +7 item with +4 option or higher(s). (revenge available)
- 1 Jewel of Chaos, 1 Jewel of Creation and 10 Stacked Jewel of Soul
- Combination Costs (Success rate zen * 20k)

Feather of Condor Combination Image
> Combination Fail Result
- 2nd Stage Wing (Item Level and Options will fall)
- Item (Item Level and Options will fall)
- Chaos, Creation and 10 Stacked Jewel of Soul. (All will be gone)
- Combination Costs (All will be gone)

>> 2nd Combination (3rd Level Wing)
> Required Combination Material (Max Combination Success rate is 40%)
- 1(one) +9 Exc. item with +4 or higher option. (revenge available)
- 1 Feather of Condor, 1 Flame of Condor
- 1 Jewel of Chaos, 1 Jewel of Creation, 10 Stacked Jewel of Soul and 10 Stacked Jewel of Bless
- Combination Costs (Success rate zen * 20k)

3rd Wing Combination Image
> Combination Fail Result
- Exc. Item (Item Level and Options will fall)
- Feather of Condor, Flame of Condor (All will be gone)
- Chaos, Creation, 10 Stacked Jewel of Soul and 10 Stacked Jewel of Bless. (All will be gone)
- Combination Costs (All will be gone)


Flame of Condor
Drop only at Barrack of Ballgass. (Item is used for 3rd Set Wings Creation)


Feather of Condor
Combined Item (Item is used for 3rd Set Wings Creation)

>> Related Items Guide
> Combination Item Transaction Control
Item -> Drop -> Vault -> NPC -> Personal Shop -> Trade
- Flame of Condor -> X -> 0 -> 0 -> 0 -> 0
- Feather of Condor -> X -> 0 -> 0 -> 0 -> 0
> 3rd Set Wing Transaction Control
Wing -> Drop -> Vault -> NPC -> Personal Shop -> Trade
- Wing of Storm -> X -> 0 -> 0 -> 0 -> 0
- Wing of Vortex -> X -> 0 -> 0 -> 0 -> 0
- Wing of Illusion -> X -> 0 -> 0 -> 0 -> 0
- Wing of Doom -> X -> 0 -> 0 -> 0 -> 0
- Mantle of Lord -> X -> 0 -> 0 -> 0 -> 0

3rd Wings Set:
>> Basic Set and Ability Guidance
The 3rd wings set that will be able to wear after finishing the 3rd job change quest.


Wing of Storm
- Can be equipped by Blade Master
- Defense : (60) + (Wing Level * 4) [Level 10~13 will increase by +5~+8]
- Damage Increase : 42 + (Wing Level * 1)
- Damage Absorb : 35 + (Wing Level * 2)
- Increase Speed
- If you succeed in attacking your target, it loses 3% HP per hit. (unsure at this time, webzen did not make it clear what it will be...)


Wing of Vortex
- Can be equipped by Grand Master
- Defense : (45) + (Wing Level * 4) [Level 10~13 will increase by +5~+8]
- Damage Increase : 42 + (Wing Level * 1)
- Damage Absorb : 35 + (Wing Level * 2)
- Increase Speed
- If you succeed in attacking your target, it loses 1% HP per hit. (unsure at this time, webzen did not make it clear what it will be...)


Wing of Illusion
- Can be equipped by High Elf
- Defense : (45) + (Wing Level * 4) [Level 10~13 will increase by +5~+8]
- Damage Increase : 42 + (Wing Level * 1)
- Damage Absorb : 35 + (Wing Level * 2)
- Increase Speed
- If you succeed in attacking your target, it loses 1% HP per hit. (unsure at this time, webzen did not make it clear what it will be...)


Wing of Doom
- Can be equipped by Duel Master
- Defense : (45) + (Wing Level * 4) [Level 10~13 will increase by +5~+8]
- Damage Increase : 42 + (Wing Level * 1)
- Damage Absorb : 35 + (Wing Level * 2)
- Increase Speed
- If you succeed in attacking your target, it loses 1% HP per hit. (unsure at this time, webzen did not make it clear what it will be...)


Mantle of Lord
- Can be equipped by Lord Emperor
- Defense : (45) + (Wing Level * 4) [Level 10~13 will increase by +5~+8]
- Damage Increase : 42 + (Wing Level * 1)
- Damage Absorb : 35 + (Wing Level * 2)
- Increase Speed
- If you succeed in attacking your target, it loses 1% HP per hit. (unsure at this time, webzen did not make it clear what it will be...)

>> Set Options (Max of 3 option, min of 1 option)
> Option (temporary)
- Max of 3 option, min of 1 option. 100% chance of getting atleast 1 to 3 types(all wings are different) of option which will add addition +4~+12 options on what option you have.
> Option name -> BM -> GM -> HE -> DM -> LE
- Addition Attack : 0 -> X -> 0 -> 0 -> 0
- Addition Magic Damage : X -> 0 -> X -> 0 -> X
- Addition Defense : 0 -> 0 -> 0 -> X -> 0
- Automatic HP Recovery : 0 -> 0 -> 0 -> 0 -> 0
> Option
- You can randomly get the "luck" option, or not.
> Option (all)
- Randomly picks a option for you, there is a chance of not getting any.
- Option 1 : [If your attack hits the target] 5% chance of ignoring enemy's defense
- Option 2 : [If the target hits your character] 5% chance of reflection
- Option 3 : [If the target hits your character] 5% chance of your character to fully recover health
- Option 4 : [If the target hits your character] 5% chance of your character to fully recover mana
* The damage you counter at the enemy is not effected by the defense/wing's damage drain only a part of the enemies attack %.
* Counter(ref) can be used with Exc. Item's damage counter.
* Life and Mana 100% recovery skill happens after your life is decreased.


3rd Class guidance:
>> Class names
New quests for each class has been added.
1st Class -> 2nd Class -> 3rd Class
Dark Knight -> Blade Knight -> Blade Master
Dark Wizard -> Soul Master -> Grand Master
Elf -> Muse Elf -> High Elf
Magic Gladiator -> - (non) -> Duel Master
Dark Lord -> - (non) -> Lord Emperor
>> 3rd Class explanations
Blade Master: Can use all of Dark Knight and Blade Knight's items and skills.
Grand Master: Can use all of Dark Wizard and Soul Master's items and skills.
High Elf: Can use all of Elf and Muse Elf's items and skills.
Duel Master: Can use all of Magic Gladiator's items and skills.
Lord Emperor: Can use all of Dark Lord's items and skills.

3rd Class change and quest guidance

>> 3rd class change system
> the 3rd class change has the total of 5 types (Blade Master, Grand Master, High Elf, Duel Master, Lord Emperor)
>> 3rd Class change rewards guide
> 1st Quest lvl 380 -> quest 1 completed -> 10 extra stats points
> 2nd Quest lvl 400 -> quest 2 completed -> 10 extra stats points
> 3rd Quest lvl 400 -> quest 3 completed -> 20 extra stats points, character appearance change(job change), able to wear 3rd set wing(after 3rd job change).
> The 3rd job class change is required to hunt down total of 3 items for each quest.
> Each quest is level limited (380,400) and must meet the required condition before quest completion is possible.
> Each quest will give a reward, when you complete the last quest, job change and character appearance change will be available.

Indepth Quest Guide:
>> 1st Quest (Certificate of Strength)
> Conditions and Rewards
- Quest Starting and Ending : NPC Priest Devin (Location: Crywolf 228,48), Dialogs readings.
- Completion Requirement : Level 380 or above with 5mil Zen.
- Completion Method : Talk to quest NPC to start, read the dialogs to complete.
- Completion Condition : Must collect 3 of Flame of Death Beam Knight, Horn of Hell Miney, and Feather of Phoenix of Darkness
- Completion Reward : Extra 10 Stat points to spend.
> Quest item does not drop if you in party (Only the character who has accepted the quest can hunt the mobs to get the drops).
>> 2nd Quest (Infiltration of Barracks of Ballgass)
> Conditions and Rewards
- Quest Starting and Ending : NPC Priest Devin, Dialogs readings.
- Completion Requirement : Must be level 400 and have completed the 1st quest, and have 7mil Zen with you.
- Completion Method : Enter the map Barracks of Ballgass and kill 10 each of Balram(Trainee), Death Spirit(Trainee) and Soram(Trainee).
- Completion Reward : Extra 10 Stat points to spend.
- Kill Count Gaining Method : The one user(or party) that has done the most damage to a current monster earns the kill count.
> Barracks of Ballgass Map Guide
- Entering Location : NPC Werewolf Quarrel (Location: Crywolf 62,239), Dialogs reading and confirmation button to enter map (Party leader must enter warp first for other party members above lvl 350 to enter map).
- Entering Condition : Can only enter if doing 3rd Job change 2nd quest.
> While in party, if you have already finish the quest or aren't doing it. Your wont get any kill counts, but the other party member who are doing the quest will get kill counts.
> It is possible to submit already made kills to Priest Devin, and you can go back and kill the remaining required ones.
>> 3rd Quest (Into The Darkness)
> Conditions and Rewards
- Quest Starting and Ending : NPC Priest Devin, Dialogs readings.
- Completion Requirement : Must be level 400 and have completed the 2nd quest, and have 10mil Zen with you.
- Completion Method : Enter the Refuge of Ballgass which is located inside at the end of Barracks of Ballgass, and kill 10 Dark Elfs(Trainee).
- Completion Reward : Extra 20 stats points to spend, 3rd Class Job Change completed.
- Kill Count Gaining Method : The one user(or party) that has done the most damage to a current monster earns the kill count.
> Refuge of Ballgass Map Guide
- Entering Location : NPC Gatekeeper (Location: Barracks of Ballgass 119,168), Dialogs reading and confirmation button to enter map (Party leader must enter warp first for other party members above lvl 350 to enter map).
- Entering Condition : Can only enter if doing 3rd Job change 3rd quest.
> While in party, if you have already finish the quest or aren't doing it. Your wont get any kill counts, but the other party member who are doing the quest will get kill counts.
> It is possible to submit already made kills to Priest Devin, and you can go back and kill the remaining required ones.

Quest Related Elements Guide
>> Quest NPC
> Conditions and Rewards
NPC Priest Devin: Location: Crywolf 228,48
NPC Werewolf Quarrel: Location: Crywolf 62,239
NPC Gatekeeper: Location: Barracks of Ballgass 119,168
>> Quest Maps
Barracks of Ballgass: Ballgass is rising his army to invade crywolf.
Refuge of Ballgass: Ballgass is rising his army to invade crywolf, this spot marks the 1st Death of Ballgass.
> Important Facts
- Party leader must enter warp first for other party members above lvl 350 to enter map.
- Dark Lord's Mass Teleport skills will not work anywhere inside.
- If you die or relog (exit game or character selection screen) you will respawn in Crywolf.
>> Quest Items
Flame of Death Beam Knight: Item can only be droped by Death Beam Knight (get drop by hunting him if your doing the quest).
Horn of Hell Mine : Item can only be droped by Hell Miney (get drop by hunting him if your doing the quest).
Feather of Phoenix of Darkness: Item can only be droped by Phoenix of Darkness (get drop by hunting him if your doing the quest).

StarCraft II Moved To 2010

The one delay every gamer expected.
by Jim Reilly
http://pc.ign.com/articles/101/1011003p1.html


August 5, 2009 - Activison's quarterly financial reports bring some more delay news.

CEO Bobby Kotick announced that Starcraft II and Singularity have been moved to 2010.

"As we prepare for next year, we have moved the expected release dates for two games, Activision Publishing's Singularity and Blizzard Entertainment's StarCraft II, into 2010," he said.

Kotick didn't explain the reasoning behind the delay, but added in earlier comments that this holiday would be very strong for the company.

Shortly after the news broke, Blizzard released the following statement: "Today we announced that StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty will not be ready for release by the end of 2009. Over the past couple of weeks, it has become clear that it will take longer than expected to prepare the new Battle.net for the launch of the game. The upgraded Battle.net is an integral part of the StarCraft II experience and will be an essential part of all of our games moving forward. This extra development time will be critical to help us realize our vision for the service."

The delay isn't exactly a surprise, as Blizzard is notorious for delays, and rumbles about StarCraft II had been growing. Last month, Stearne Agee analyst Arvind Bhatia predicted a delay.

Cabal Catalyst Guide

Sarcastic Remarks

1. And your crybaby whiny-assed opinion would be...?
2. Do I look like a friggin' people person?
3. This isn't an office. It's Hell with fluorescent lighting.
4. I started out with nothing & still have most of it left.
5. I pretend to work. They pretend to pay me.
6. Sarcasm is just one more service we offer.
7. If I throw a stick, will you leave?
8. You!... Off my planet!
9. If I want to hear the pitter patter of little feet, I'll put shoes on my dogs/cats.
10. Does your train of thought have a caboose?
11. Did the aliens forget to remove your anal probe?
12. Errors have been made. Others will be blamed.
13. A hard-on doesn't count as personal growth.
14. A PBS mind in an MTV world.
15. Allow me to introduce my selves.
16. Whatever kind of look you were going for, you missed.
17. Suburbia: where they tear out the trees & then name streets after them.
18. Well, this day was a total waste of makeup.
19. See no evil, hear no evil, date no evil.
20. Are these your eyeballs? I found them in my cleavage.
21. I'm not your type. I'm not inflatable.
22. I have a computer, a vibrator, & pizza delivery. Why should I leave the house?
23. Not all men are annoying. Some are dead.
24. Did I mention the kick in the groin you'll be receiving if you touch me?
25. It ain't the size, it's... no, it's the size.
26. A woman's favorite position is CEO.
27. I'm trying to imagine you with a personality.
28. A cubicle is just a padded cell without a door.
29. Stress is when you wake up screaming & you realize you haven't fallen asleep yet.
30. Can I trade this job for what's behind door #1?
31. I thought I wanted a career, turns out I just wanted paychecks.
32. Okay, okay, I take it back! UnScrew you!
33. Too many freaks, not enough circuses.
34. Macho/Feminist Law prohibits me from admitting I'm wrong.
35. Nice perfume. Must you marinate in it?
36. Chaos, panic, & disorder - my work here is done.
37. I plead contemporary insanity.
38. And which dwarf are you?
39. How do I set a laser printer to stun?
40. Meandering to a different drummer.
41. I majored in liberal arts. Will that be for here or to go?

Send Song Requests to Radio Stations via SMS

Tired of calling in for your song requests? You can request via SMS instead. Be sure to send them in before the year ends as they are also counted for year end countdowns.

Jam 88.3 - Your Kind of Mix
Jam 883 (Send to 2968 for Globe)

Wave 89.1 - Your Lifestyle, Your Music
Wave 891 (Send to 2968 for Globe)

Magic 89.9 - Today’s Best Music
Magic 899 (Send to 2968 for Globe)

Love Radio 90.7 - Kailangan pa bang i-memorize yan?
Love (Send to 2299 for Globe)

Energy 91.5 - Hi Pangga! May Energy Ka Ba?
Energy (Send to 2299 for Globe)

RX 93.1 - Manila’s Hottest
RX (Send to 2299 for Globe)

IFM 93.9 - I! FM
IFM (Send to 2299 for Globe)

Mellow Touch 94.7 - Relaxing All Day Long
MellowTouch (Send to 29761947)

WRock 96.3 - The Heart of Lite Rock
(Send to 29761963)

Home Radio 97.9 - Like It Easy
Home (Send to 2299 for Globe)

Yes FM 101.1 - Sarap… all the time!
YES (Send to 2299 for Globe)

Star FM 102.7 - Iba ang Dating
STAR SM (Send to 29765)

Max FM 103.5
KLITE 1035 (Send to 2968 for Globe)

How to join local TV game shows via text

1 vs 100. To register to become a studio contestant, text

MOB to 2366 (Globe, TM, Sun Cellular, Php 2.50/text) or 231 (Smart, Talk n Text, Addict Mobile, Php 2.00/text)

Go Bingo. Requires a ‘Go Bingo scratch card’ to join as homepartner.

GOBINGO / to 2344 (Globe, TM, Sun Cellular, Php 2.50/text) or 367 (Smart, Talk n Text, Addict Mobile, Php 2.00/text)

Kapamilya, Deal or No Deal

To register to become a studio contestant, text

DEAL to 2331 (Globe, TM, Sun Cellular, Php 2.50/text) or 231 (Smart, Talk n Text, Addict Mobile, Php 2.00/text)

To join Deal or No Deal as homepartner, text

ABS DEAL to 2366, if you think the banker’s final offer is higher than the amount in the chosen briefcase. (For Globe subscribers only, Php 15/download)

If you think otherwise, text

ABS NODEAL to 2366 (For Globe subscribers only, Php 15/download)

When joining as home partner, texters will be asked to register to earn an entry and qualify for the text promo.

DEAL REG to 2366 (For Globe subscribers only)

Pilipinas, Game KNB? To register to become a studio contestant, text

GKNB STUDIO to 2331 (Globe, TM, Sun Cellular, Php 2.50/text) or 231 (Smart, Talk n Text, Addict Mobile, Php 2.00/text)

Taktak Mo o Tatakbo (Eat Bulaga segment). To join as homepartner, text

EB / to 2344 (For Globe subscribers only, Php 2.50/text)

The Singing Bee. To join as homepartner, text

BEE to 2366 (For Globe subscribers only, Php 15/download)

Whammy! Push Your Luck. To join as homepartner, text

PLAY to 4627 (Globe, TM, Sun Cellular, Php 2.50/text) or 367 (Smart, Talk n Text, Addict Mobile, Php 2.00/text)

Wheel of Fortune

To register to become a studio contestant, text

STUDIO WOF to 2366 (Globe, TM, Sun Cellular, Php 2.50/text) or 231 (Smart, Talk n Text, Addict Mobile, Php 2.00/text)

To join as homepartner, text

WOF to 2366 (Php 15/download)

Wowowee. To register to become a studio contestant, text

WSTUDIO to 2331 (Globe, TM, Sun Cellular, Php 2.50/text) or 231 (Smart, Talk n Text, Addict Mobile, Php 2.00/text)

Using Globe G-CASH

GLOBE G-CASH allows any Globe or TM user to send and receive money, buy prepaid load, pay bills, and do a lot of other money-related transactions, anytime, anywhere using SMS.

Globe’s flagship M-Commerce service, was born from a simple goal of transforming a mobile phone into a wallet. With its launch in October 2004, G-CASH has effectively given Globe and TM subscribers access to a cashless and cardless method of facilitating money remittance, donations, loan settlement, disbursement of salaries or commissions, and payment of bills, products and services, with just a text message. G-Cash won the “Best Mobile Messaging Service” in the 2005 GSM Awards.

To register for G-CASH, type

REG <4-digit PIN/mother’s maiden name/first name/last name/address> to 2882

Make sure that your First Name and Last Name match the information that appears in any valid ID of yours. This is important for future G-CASH transactions.

After you’ve registered, you will need to load your mobile wallet with G-CASH. This is done via a cash-in transaction which is the process of converting your cash to G-CASH at a Globe Center or at any accredited G-CASH partner. (Most 7-Eleven branches are accredited G-cash outlets)

To send G-CASH, type

AMOUNT <4-digit PIN> and send to 2882+10 digit cellphone number of the recipient

To buy load using G-CASH, type

LOAD <4-digit PIN> and send to 2882, if you’re loading your self.

If you are loading for someone else, send to 2882+10 digit cellphone number of the recipient.

To pay bills using G-CASH, type

BILLPAY <4-digit PIN> and send to 2882

For list of institution codes, click here.

To use G-CASH to pay at SM Malls, type

PAY SM and send to 2318.

The store code is unique to each cashier.

To donate to charitable institutions using G-CASH, type

DONATE <4-digit PIN> and send to 2882.

For a list of charitable institution codes, click here.

To check your balance, type

BAL <4-digit PIN> and send to 2882

To check last transaction, type

TXN <4-digit PIN> and send to 2882

To change 4-digit PIN, type

CHG and send to 2882

To suspend account, type

SUS <4-digit PIN> and send to 2882

To re-activate account, type

ACT <4-digit PIN> and send to 2882

Converting your G-CASH to cash is called a cash out transaction. It is done at a Globe Center or at any accredited GCASH partner. G-CASH has a maximum transaction limit of P40,000 per day and a maximum transaction limit of P100,000 per month (both for incoming and outgoing transactions). This is to comply with the Anti-Money Laundering Act.

Using SMART Money

SMART MONEY is a re-loadable payment card that may either be accessed through a Smart mobile phone or a Smart Money MasterCard, similar to a debit/cash card. Smart Money enables Smart subscribers to manage their money from their mobile phones wherever they are, whenever they want.

Smart Money is the world’s first electronic wallet card linked to a mobile phone which won the 2001 GSM Awards for “Most Innovative GSM Wireless Service for Customers”. It was also cited as the “Best Product Innovation” award at the MasterCard Marketing Awards in Australia. [from smart.com.ph]

To activate Smart Money:

1. Text MONEY to 343
2. Enter desired W-PIN (6-digits)
3. Re-enter W-PIN, press OK
4. Choose ‘Get Account’ press OK
5. Select BDO
6. Wait for your confirmation message

After activation, you can now apply for a Smart Money MasterCard. Click here on how to apply.

Once you get your card, you can now link your Smart Money MasterCard to your mobile phone. Only a maximum of two (2) Smart Money MasterCards/Accounts may be linked.

Go to your nearest Smart Wireless Center or Smart Money Accredited Outlet to load money into your Smart Money Account.

To start sending Smart Money,

1. Go to Smart Menu, select Smart Money
2. Select Transfer, press OK
3. Select Others, press OK
4. Enter your beneficiary’s Smart Money Number, press OK
5. You will receive a prompt message, press OK
6. Select source of funds, press OK
7. Enter amount you would like to send, press OK
8. You will receive a prompt message to confirm your transaction, press OK
9. Enter W-PIN, press OK
10. You will receive a confirmation message of your transaction
11. Beneficiary will also receive a confirmation message instantly

To buy load using Smart Money:

1. Go to Smart Menu, select Smart Money
2. Select Reload Buddy, press OK
3. Select Others, press OK
4. Enter Mobile Number, press OK
5. You will receive a prompt message, press OK
6. Select source of funds, press OK
7. Select amount, press OK
8. You will receive a prompt message confirming the transaction, press OK
9. Enter W-PIN, press OK
10. You will receive an SMS confirmation for every successful transaction
11. Beneficiary will also receive an SMS notification instantly

To pay bills using Smart Money:

1. Go to Smart Menu, select Smart Money
2. Select Pay Bills, press OK
3. Select Others, press OK
4. Enter Biller Code, press OK
5. Enter Bill Account Number (please refer to your billing statement), press OK
6. You will receive a prompt message, press OK
7. Select source of funds, press OK
8. Enter amount you would like to pay, press OK
9. You will receive a prompt message confirming the transaction, press OK
10. Enter W-PIN, press OK
11. Subscriber will receive an SMS confirmation of his transaction

To purchase at selected establishments using Smart Money, text

and send to 270

You can also use your Smart Money MasterCard to pay at any MasterCard establishments worldwide.

Smart Money has a maximum withdrawable amount of Php 20,000 per day. The maximum amount of money you may transfer per day is Php 10,000.

Mass. Sen. Edward M. Kennedy dies at age 77

By GLEN JOHNSON, Associated Press Writer Glen Johnson, Associated Press Writer – Wed Aug 26, 2:52 am ET
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090826/ap_on_go_co/us_obit_ted_kennedy_16


BOSTON – Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, the liberal lion of the Senate and haunted bearer of the Camelot torch after two of his brothers fell to assassins' bullets, has died at his home in Hyannis Port after battling a brain tumor. He was 77.

For nearly a half-century in the Senate, Kennedy was a steadfast champion of the working class and the poor, a powerful voice on health care, civil rights, and war and peace. To the American public, though, he was best known as the last surviving son of America's most glamorous political family, the eulogist of a clan shattered again and again by tragedy.

His family announced his death in a brief statement released early Wednesday.

"We've lost the irreplaceable center of our family and joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever," the statement said. "We thank everyone who gave him care and support over this last year, and everyone who stood with him for so many years in his tireless march for progress toward justice, fairness and opportunity for all."

Kennedy was elected to the Senate in 1962, when his brother John was president, and served longer than all but two senators in history. Over the decades, he put his imprint on every major piece of social legislation to clear the Congress.

His own hopes of reaching the White House were damaged — perhaps doomed — in 1969 by the scandal that came to be known as Chappaquiddick, an auto accident that left a young woman dead.

Kennedy — known to family, friends and foes simply as Ted — ended his quest for the presidency in 1980 with a stirring valedictory that echoed across the decades: "For all those whose cares have been our concern, the work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dream shall never die."

The third-longest-serving senator in U.S. history, Kennedy was diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor in May 2008 and underwent surgery and a grueling regimen of radiation and chemotherapy.

His death late Tuesday comes just weeks after that of his sister Eunice Kennedy Shriver on Aug. 11.

In a recent interview with The Associated Press, Kennedy's son Rep. Patrick Kennedy, D-R.I., said his father had defied the predictions of doctors by surviving more than a year with his fight against brain cancer.

The younger Kennedy said that gave family members a surprise blessing, as they were able to spend more time with the senator and to tell him how much he had meant to their lives.

The younger Kennedy said his father's legacy was built largely in the Senate.

"He has authored more pieces of major legislation than any other United States senator," Patrick Kennedy said in the interview. "He is the penultimate senator. I don't need to exaggerate when I talk about my father. That's the amazing thing. He breaks all the records himself."

Ted Kennedy fought his way back to Capitol Hill that summer to cast a pivotal vote for the Democrats on Medicare. He made sure he was there again last January to see his former Senate colleague Barack Obama sworn in as the nation's first black president, only to collapse in fatigue at a celebratory luncheon afterward.

He died without seeing his dream of universal health care come true. From his sickbed earlier this summer, he had worked the phones, making a final push for what he called "the cause of my life" in a rousing speech at the Democratic convention last August.

After Chappaquiddick especially, Kennedy gained a reputation as a heavy drinker and a womanizer, a tragically flawed figure haunted by the fear that he did not quite measure up to his brothers. As his weight ballooned, he was lampooned by comics and cartoonists in the 1980s and '90s as the very embodiment of government waste, bloat and decadence.

But in his later years, after he had remarried, he buckled down and came to be regarded as a statesman on Capitol Hill, seen as one of the most effective, hardworking lawmakers Washington has ever seen.

A barrel-chested figure with a swath of white hair, a booming voice and a thick, widely imitated Boston accent, he coupled fist-pumping floor speeches with his well-honed Irish charm and formidable negotiating skills. He was both a passionate liberal and a clear-eyed pragmatist, unafraid to reach across the aisle to get things done.

Over the decades, he managed to put his imprint on every major piece of social legislation to clear the Congress. In fact, for all his insecurities, he ended up perhaps the most influential liberal voice of his time.

"There are very few people who have touched the life of this nation in the same breadth and the same order of magnitude," Obama said in April as he signed the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act into law.

He arrived at his place in the Senate after a string of family tragedies so terrible it sometimes seemed as if the Kennedys — America's foremost political dynasty — were as cursed as they were charmed. He was the only one of the four Kennedy brothers to die of natural causes.

Kennedy's eldest brother, Joseph, was killed in a plane crash in World War II. President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas in 1963. Sen. Robert F. Kennedy was gunned down in Los Angeles as he campaigned for the 1968 Democratic presidential nomination. John F. Kennedy Jr. was killed in a plane crash at age 38 along with his wife in 1999.

It fell to Ted Kennedy to deliver the eulogies, to comfort his brothers' widows, to mentor fatherless nieces and nephews. It was Ted Kennedy who walked JFK's daughter, Caroline, down the aisle at her wedding.

Tragedy had a way of bringing out his eloquence.

Kennedy sketched a dream of a better future as he laid to rest his brother Robert in 1968: "My brother need not be idealized, or enlarged in death beyond what he was in life; to be remembered simply as a good and decent man, who saw wrong and tried to right it, saw suffering and tried to heal it, saw war and tried to stop it."

After John Jr.'s death, the senator eulogized the young man by saying: "We dared to think, in that other Irish phrase, that this John Kennedy would live to comb gray hair, with his beloved Carolyn by his side. But like his father, he had every gift but length of years."

His own legacy was blighted on the night of July 18, 1969, when Kennedy drove his car off a bridge and into a pond on Chappaquiddick Island, on Martha's Vineyard. Mary Jo Kopechne, a 28-year-old worker with RFK's campaign, was found dead in the submerged car's back seat 10 hours later.

Kennedy, then 37, pleaded guilty to leaving the scene of an accident and received a two-month suspended sentence and a year's probation. A judge eventually determined there was "probable cause to believe that Kennedy operated his motor vehicle negligently ... and that such operation appears to have contributed to the death of Mary Jo Kopechne."

At the height of the scandal, Kennedy went on national television to explain himself in an extraordinary 13-minute address in which he denied driving drunk and rejected rumors of "immoral conduct" with Ms. Kopechne. He said he was haunted by "irrational" thoughts immediately after the accident, and wondered "whether some awful curse did actually hang over all the Kennedys." He said his failure to report the accident right away was "indefensible."

In 1980, Kennedy took the extraordinary step of challenging a sitting president, Jimmy Carter, for the party's nomination. Kennedy's left-of-center politics made him an unlikely choice. But Chappaquiddick — and lingering suspicions that the famous Kennedy money and clout had gotten him out of the trouble — damaged his chances, too.

Kennedy's speech in accepting defeat to Carter electrified the Democratic convention and turned out to be a defining moment. At 48, he seemed liberated from the towering expectations and high hopes invested in him after the death of his brothers, and he plunged himself into his work in the Senate. He never again made a serious run at the presidency.

First elected to the Senate in 1962 to his brother John's seat, easily re-elected in 2006, Kennedy served close to 47 years, longer than all but two senators in history: Robert Byrd of West Virginia (more than 50 1/2 years and counting) and the late Strom Thurmond of South Carolina, who put in nearly 47 1/2 years. Kennedy's career spanned 10 presidencies.

His legislative achievements included bills to provide health insurance for children of the working poor, the landmark 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act, Meals on Wheels for the elderly, abortion clinic access, family leave, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

He was also a key negotiator on legislation creating a Medicare prescription drug benefit for senior citizens and was a driving force for peace in Ireland and a persistent critic of the war in Iraq.

Kennedy did not always prevail. In late 2008, he unsuccessfully lobbied for niece Caroline's appointment to the Senate from New York.

Wildly popular among Democrats, Kennedy routinely won re-election by large margins. He grew comfortable in his role as Republican foil and leader of his party's liberal wing.

President George W. Bush welcomed Kennedy to the Rose Garden on several occasions as he signed bills that the Democrat helped write.

"He's the kind of person who will state his case, sometimes quite eloquently and vociferously, and then on another issue will come along and you can work with him," Bush said shortly before his first term began in 2001.

But Bush was also the target of some of Kennedy's sharpest attacks. Kennedy assailed the Iraq war as Bush's Vietnam, a conflict "made up in Texas" and marketed by the Bush administration for political gain.

Kennedy and his niece Caroline shook up the Democratic establishment in January 2008 when they endorsed Obama over Hillary Rodham Clinton for the nomination for president. The ailing Massachusetts senator electrified delegates when he made a surprise trip to Denver last August to address the Democratic convention and press for Obama's election.

After Obama won in November, Kennedy renewed words once spoken by his brother John, declaring: "The world is changing. The old ways will not do. ... It is time for a new generation of leadership."

Born in 1932, the youngest of Joseph and Rose Kennedy's nine children, Edward Moore Kennedy was part of a family bristling with political ambition, beginning with maternal grandfather John F. "Honey Fitz" Fitzgerald, a congressman and mayor of Boston.

Round-cheeked Teddy was thrown out of Harvard in 1951 for cheating, after arranging for a classmate to take a freshman Spanish exam for him. He eventually returned, earning his degree in 1956.

He went on to the University of Virginia Law School, and in 1962, while his brother John was president, announced plans to run for the Senate seat JFK had vacated in 1960. A family friend had held the seat in the interim because Kennedy was not yet 30, the minimum age for a senator.

Kennedy was immediately involved in a bruising primary campaign against state Attorney General Edward J. McCormack, a nephew of U.S. House Speaker John W. McCormack.

"If your name was simply Edward Moore, your candidacy would be a joke," chided McCormack.

Kennedy won the primary by 300,000 votes and went on to overwhelmingly defeat Republican George Cabot Lodge, son of the late Ambassador Henry Cabot Lodge, in the general election.

Devastated by his brothers' assassinations and injured in a 1964 plane crash that left him with back pain that would plague him for decades, Kennedy temporarily withdrew from public life in 1968. But he re-emerged in 1969 to be elected majority whip of the Senate.

Then came Chappaquiddick.

Kennedy still handily won re-election in 1970, but he lost his leadership job. He remained outspoken in his opposition to the Vietnam War and support of social programs but ruled out a 1976 presidential bid.

In the summer of 1978, a Gallup Poll showed that Democrats preferred Kennedy over President Carter 54 percent to 32 percent. A year later, Kennedy decided to run for the White House with a campaign that accused Carter of turning his back on the Democratic agenda.

The difficult task of dislodging a sitting president was compounded by Kennedy's fumbling answer to a question posed by CBS' Roger Mudd: Why do you want to be president?

"Well, it's um, you know you have to come to grips with the different issues that, ah, we're facing," Kennedy said. "I mean, we can, we have to deal with each of the various questions of the economy, whether it's in the area of energy ..."

He bowed out of the race after getting roundly beaten by Carter in the primaries and losing a rules battle at the Democratic convention. Later, when asked to assess the campaign, he replied: "Well, I learned to lose, and for a Kennedy that's hard."

Kennedy married Virginia Joan Bennett, known as Joan, in 1958. They divorced in 1982. In 1992, he married Washington lawyer Victoria Reggie. His survivors include a daughter, Kara Kennedy Allen; two sons, Edward Jr. and Patrick, a congressman from Rhode Island; and two stepchildren, Caroline and Curran Raclin.

In 1991, Kennedy roused his nephew William Kennedy Smith and his son Patrick from bed to go out for drinks while staying at the family's Palm Beach, Fla., estate. Later that night, a woman Smith met at a bar accused him of raping her at the home.

Smith was acquitted, but the senator's carousing — and testimony about him wandering about the house in his shirttails and no pants — further damaged his reputation.

Kennedy offered a mea culpa in a speech at Harvard that October, recognizing "my own shortcomings, the faults in the conduct of my private life."

Later on, his second wife appeared to have a calming influence on him, helping him rehabilitate his image.

Kennedy's family life has been marked by illness.

Edward Jr. lost a leg to bone cancer in 1973 at age 12. Kara had a cancerous tumor removed from her lung in 2003. In 1988, Patrick had a noncancerous tumor pressing on his spine removed. He has also struggled with mental problems and addiction and announced in June that he was re-entering rehab.

In 2005, the senator's ex-wife underwent surgery for breast cancer. She has also battled alcoholism.

Kennedy's memoir, "True Compass," is set to be published in the fall.

Nokia Booklet 3G brings all day mobility to the PC world

Nokia Booklet 3G brings all day mobility to the PC world
August 24, 2009
http://europe.nokia.com/find-products/mini-laptop
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fIHWM4liM2g


Espoo, Finland - After more than 25 years as a pioneer and leader in the mobile industry, Nokia will bring its rich mobility heritage and knowledge to the PC world with the new, Windows based, Nokia Booklet 3G.

Powered by the efficient Intel Atom processor, the Nokia Booklet 3G delivers impressive performance with up to 12 hours of battery life, enabling people to leave their power cable behind and still be connected and productive. Delivering the rich experience of a full-function PC inside an ultra-portable aluminum chassis, the new mini-laptop weighs 1.25 kilograms, measures slightly more than two centimeters thin, and has the features one would expect from the world's leading mobile device manufacturer. A broad range of connectivity options - including 3G/ HSPA and Wi-Fi - gives consumers high speed access to the Internet, including Nokia's broad suite of Ovi services, and allows them to make the most of every moment and every opportunity.

"A growing number of people want the computing power of a PC with the full benefits of mobility," said Kai Oistamo, Nokia's Executive Vice President for Devices. "We are in the business of connecting people and the Nokia Booklet 3G is a natural evolution for us. Nokia has a long and rich heritage in mobility and with the outstanding battery life, premium design and all day, always on connectivity, we will create something quite compelling. In doing so we will make the personal computer more social, more helpful and more personal."

The mini-laptop also comes with an HDMI port for HD video out, a front facing camera for video calling, integrated Bluetooth and an easily accessible SD card reader. Other premium features include the 10-inch glass HD ready display and integrated A-GPS which, working with the Ovi Maps gadget, can pinpoint your position in seconds and open up access for a truly personal maps experience. The Nokia Booklet 3G also brings a number of other rich Ovi experiences to life, whether its access and playback of millions of tracks through the Nokia Music Store, or using Ovi Suite to sync seamlessly from your Nokia smartphone, to your mini-laptop, to the cloud.

The Nokia Booklet 3G will widen the Nokia portfolio, satisfying a need in the operator channel, and bringing another important ingredient in the move towards becoming a mobile solutions company.

Further information, including detailed specifications, market availability and pricing, will be announced at Nokia World on September 2. For more information on Nokia World, visit: http://events.nokia.com/nokiaworld/home.htm

About Nokia
Nokia is a pioneer in mobile telecommunications and the world's leading maker of mobile devices. Today, we are connecting people in new and different ways - fusing advanced mobile technology with personalized services to enable people to stay close to what matters to them. We also provide comprehensive digital map information through NAVTEQ; and equipment, solutions and services for communications networks through Nokia Siemens Networks.

Media Enquiries:

Nokia
Communications
Tel. +358 7180 34900
Email: press.services@nokia.com

www.nokia.com

Venezuela takes home Miss Universe crown again; RP bet fails to enter Miss Universe Top 15

With a report from Dyan Castillejo, ABS-CBN News
ABS-CBN - Monday, August 24
http://ph.news.yahoo.com/abs/20090824/tel-update-2-venezuela-takes-home-miss-u-336e25d.html


A beauty queen from Venezuela was crowned Miss Universe 2009 at the Atlantis Resort Paradise Island in the Bahamas Monday (Manila time).

Stefania Fernandez bested 83 candidates from around the world to become the 58th Miss Universe.

It was also the first time in the pageant's history that the same nation won the contest for two years in a row. Last year's Miss Universe was Dayana Mendoza from Venezuela.

Miss Dominican Republic Ada Aimee De la Cruz and Miss Kosovo Gona Dragusha were 1st runner-up and 2nd runner-up, respectively. The 3rd and 4th runners-up were Miss Australia Rachael Finch and Miss Puerto Rico Mayra Matos Perez.

In a press conference held right after the pageant, the 18-year-old Venezuelan beauty said she was shocked and “fireworks went off” after she was declared this year’s Miss Universe. She also thanked her supporters as well as her detractors who earlier predicted that she would not make it to the top 15.

Fernandez outsmarted the four top finalists during the question-and-answer portion. Asked by judge Andre Leon Talley what women can do to overcome obstacles in achieving their goals, the Venezuelan beauty answered: “I believe that nowadays we, women, have overcome many obstacles and I do believe that we have reached the same level as men have. We must realize there are no longer barriers amongst us.”

Earlier in the competition, the Miss Congeniality award was given to Miss China Wang Jingyao. Miss Thailand Chutima Durongdej, on the other hand, was voted Miss Photogenic.

The beauty pageant was hosted by “Access Hollywood” co-anchor Billy Bush and “Celebrity Apprentice” star Claudia Jordan. Rapper Flo Rida, singers David Guetta and Kelly Rowland and reality star Heidi Montag also performed during the coronation night.

The winner will spend a year holding the title, traveling to events and fundraisers and promoting products and charity work.

Ms. Philippines Pamela Bianca Manalo failed to make the top 15. There were also no other Asian candidates in the top 15.

Despite this, Manalo’s parents said they are very proud of her and happy with the way she represented the Philippines. Likewise, Filipinos in the Bahamas said the Philippine bet to the most prestigious beauty contest had made her country proud.

It has been 36 years since the Philippines won the Miss Universe title, courtesy of Margie Moran in 1973. Gloria Diaz was the first Philippine bet to take home the Miss Universe crown in 1969. With a report from Dyan Castillejo, ABS-CBN News




RP bet fails to enter Miss Universe Top 15
ABS-CBN - Monday, August 24


Ms. Philippines Pamela Bianca Manalo failed to make the Top 15 in the 2009 Miss Universe Pageant. There were no Asian candidates in the Top 15.

The 58th Miss Universe pageant is being held at the Atlantis Resort Paradise Island in the Bahamas.

Miss Universe 2009 Top 15

1. Puerto Rico – Mayra Matos Perez 2. Iceland – Ingibjorg Egilsdottir 3. Albania – Hasna Xhukici 4. Czech Republic – Iveta Lutovska 5. Belgium – Zeynep Sever 6. Dominican Republic – Ada Aimee De la Cruz 7. Sweden – Renate Cerljen 8. Kosovo – Gona Dragusha 9. Australia – Rachael Finch 10. France – Chloe Mortaud 11. Switzerland – Whitney Toyloy 12. South Africa – Tatum Keshwar 13. USA – Kristen Dalton 14. Croatia – Sarah Cosic 15. Venezuela – Stefania Fernandez

The main event is hosted by Celebrity Apprentice star Claudia Jordan and Access Hollywood co-anchor Billy Bush, and includes performances by rapper Flo Rida, singers David Guetta and Kelly Rowland and reality star Heidi Montag.

The winner will spend a year holding the title, traveling to events and fundraisers, and promoting products and charity work.

Aussie official: Glue on toilet seat a 'sick joke'

AP - Monday, August 24
http://ph.news.yahoo.com/ap/20090824/tap-as-australia-toilet-prank-79704af.html


CAIRNS, Australia – A man who used a public toilet in a shopping mall was taken to a hospital to have the toilet seat removed from his backside after someone smeared it with glue in what an official condemned Monday as a sick joke.

Police urged possible witnesses to come forward after the 58-year-old man was humiliated in the northeastern city of Cairns by the prank.

An ambulance was called to help the man after he was found stuck by fast-acting adhesive glue to a toilet seat on Saturday in the busy shopping mall.

Paramedics removed the seat from the toilet and took him to a hospital, where medical staff used industrial solvents to get it off.

Cairns local government official Di Forsyth said the man, who was not identified, was not injured but was "extremely embarrassed" by his experience.

"I'm disgusted that a gentlemen has had to go through that because someone thinks it's funny," Forsyth said. "It's a sick joke."

NHI not keen on proposed Cory Aquino Day

GMANews.TV - Tuesday, August 25
http://ph.news.yahoo.com/gma/20090824/tph-nhi-not-keen-on-proposed-cory-aquino-d6cd5cf.html


The National Historical Institute (NHI) is not keen on declaring a Cory Aquino Day, saying there are other ways to memorialize the late former President than giving Filipinos another holiday.

NHI chairman Ambeth Ocampo on Monday said that while they support the resolution filed by Senator Manuel Roxas II seeking to declare a holiday in honor of Mrs. Aquino, they believe that further study is still needed on the matter.

"A holiday is supposed to make people remember. That is the intent, I think, of the resolution. But in actual practice we see people go to the malls," Ocampo told the Senate committee on education in a hearing.

Mrs. Aquino, the country’s first woman president, died last August 1 at the Makati Medical Center after several months of battling colon cancer. She had been instrumental in toppling the Marcos regime in February 1986 through the historic EDSA People Power Revolution.

On August 3, Roxas filed Joint Resolution 28 seeking to declare Mrs. Aquino's birthday, January 25, as Cory Aquino Day.

Ocampo said that following NHI rules, 10 years are needed before they could recommend that a holiday be declared to honor a person. He added that even in canonization, or the act by which the Christian Church declares a deceased person to be a saint, the authorities wait for five years before starting the process.

"Perhaps we should review the existing holidays because there is a lot, and see how we can, if we put in a Cory holiday, give it the importance that it deserves," Ocampo, a noted historian, said.

He suggested that instead of declaring a holiday, Congress should just name new streets, schools or hospitals after Mrs. Aquino to honor her.

Ocampo also said that the NHI is happy that Roxas’ resolution stopped short of declaring Mrs. Aquino a national hero like what had been done at the House of Representatives, which approved a resolution calling for such.

“No Congress has actually been brash enough to declare a national hero. As a matter of fact, even Jose Rizal is not a declared national hero. We cannot legislate heroes. Heroes are made by acclamation," he said. - GMANews.TV

Bayantel vows to block PLDT unit’s 3G license

Jeremiah F. de Guzman
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW082509/content.php?id=042


BAYAN TELECOMMUNICATIONS, Inc. (Bayantel) said the fight for the last 3G license is not yet over, asserting that the selection process of the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) is flawed and must be declared invalid.

In a statement yesterday, Bayantel announced it would file a motion for reconsideration with the Court of Appeals not later than Sept. 1, or within the 15-day prescribed period.

The Lopez-led telco said it would "exhaust all legal remedies to rightfully claim to be one of those to be awarded with a 3G license considering its track record and its commitment to roll out the service."

Tunde Fafunwa, Bayantel chief executive consultant, noted that "in the last two years, we have demonstrated our capability to roll out a 3G-compliant network with our CDMA (code division multiple access)-based wireless landline service which disrupted and transformed the voice calling market today."

The telco said the NTC selection process for granting the 3G license was unfair.

Bayantel said it has a better commitment and track record as compared to the new telecommunication entity, Connectivity Unlimited Resources Enterprises, Inc. (CURE), a subsidiary of the PLDT group’s Smart Communications, Inc. and the recipient of the fifth and last 3G license.

The Lopez telco said it would "oppose any action to resolve any application for and/or from awarding the last 3G frequency license."

The Court of Appeals last week denied the petition by Bayantel questioning the NTC’s decision not to give it a 3G license.

In a 28-page decision penned by Associate Justice Normandie Pizarro, the Court of Appeals said the regulator’s reasons for denying Bayantel’s petition was well-grounded, noting that "the point system that the NTC eventually adopted was reasonable and germane to the declared purpose of determining the best qualified applicants."

It added that the telco regulator has the authority to interpret its own rules on the qualifications of applicants and adopt a point-system it deems best suited for the evaluation process.

The appellate court’s decision said "the findings of the NTC being made within the confines of its legal mandate, and there being no arbitrariness or any badge of impartiality of irregularity on its actuation, no reversal is warranted."

Late last year, the NTC awarded 3G licenses to four telcos, namely: Smart Communications, Inc., Globe Telecom, Inc., Digital Mobile Philippines, Inc., and CURE.

Aside from Bayantel, 3G applications from Pacific Wireless, Inc., Multimedia Telephony, Inc., Next Mobile, Inc. and AZ Communications, Inc. were denied by regulators.

Mediaquest Holdings, Inc., a subsidiary of the PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund, has a minor stake in BusinessWorld. — Jeremiah F. de Guzman

Ninoy’s alleged ‘Undelivered speech’

Thea Alberto
http://yseablog.com/blog/2009/08/21/undelivered-speech/


Today, we commemorate the martyrdom of Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr.

Because 26 years ago, he chose to leave his peaceful life in America to return to his homeland, despite threats to his life.

He was supposed to deliver a speech upon his return but was unable to do so when he was killed on the tarmac of the then Manila International Airport.

His death sparked the Philippines’ shining moment in history, as millions of Filipinos joined his funeral march amid fear during former president Ferdinand Marcos’ dictatorship. Three years later, Aquino’s widow, Corazon, was catapulted to power through the world’s first bloodless, people-led revolt now known as the People Power/ EDSA Revolution.

Although several members of the military were convicted and have served several years in prison for supposedly killing Ninoy Aquino, the question remains: who was the mastermind?

What follows is dubbed as ‘The most famous undelivered speech in Philippine history,’ the alleged speech Ninoy was supposed to read before his supporters.

————————————————————————————————————————-

(This is the entire statement as it appears (all-caps, italicized quote, and all) in “A Testimony by Ninoy,” a pamphlet published on September 1, 1983 by the Human Development Research and Documentation office of the La Ignaciana Apostolic Center as Human Society No. 21)

I have returned on my free will to join the ranks of those struggling to restore our rights and freedoms through nonviolence.

I seek no confrontation. I only pray and will strive for a genuine national reconciliation founded on justice.

I am prepared for the worst, and have decided against the advice of my mother, my spiritual adviser, many of my tested friends and a few of my most valued political mentors.

A death sentence awaits me. Two more subversion charges, both calling for death penalties, have been filed since I left three years ago and are now pending with the courts.

I could have opted to seek political asylum in America, but I feel it is my duty, as it is the duty of every Filipino, to suffer with his people especially in time of crisis.

I never sought nor have I been given assurances or promise of leniency by the regime. I return voluntarily armed only with a clear conscience and fortified in the faith that in the end justice will emerge triumphant.

According to Gandhi, the WILLING sacrifice of the innocent is the most powerful answer to insolent tyranny that has yet been conceived by God and man.

Three years ago when I left for an emergency heart bypass operation, I hoped and prayed that the rights and freedoms of our people would soon be restored, that living conditions would improve and that blood-letting would stop.

Rather than move forward, we have moved backward. The killings have increased, the economy has taken a turn for the worse and the human rights situation has deteriorated.

During the martial law period, the Supreme Court heard petitions for Habeas Corpus. It is most ironic, after martial law has allegedly been lifted, that the Supreme Court last April ruled it can no longer entertain petitions for Habeas Corpus for persons detained under a Presidential Commitment Order, which covers all so-called national security cases and which under present circumstances can cover almost anything.

The country is far advanced in her times of trouble. Economic, social and political problems bedevil the Filipino. These problems may be surmounted if we are united. But we can be united only if all the rights and freedoms enjoyed before September 21, 1972 are fully restored.

The Filipino asks for nothing more, but will surely accept nothing less, than all the rights and freedoms guaranteed by the 1935 Constitution — the most sacred legacies from the Founding Fathers.

Yes, the Filipino is patient, but there is a limit to his patience. Must we wait until that patience snaps?

The nation-wide rebellion is escalating and threatens to explode into a bloody revolution. There is a growing cadre of young Filipinos who have finally come to realize that freedom is never granted, it is taken. Must we relive the agonies and the blood-letting of the past that brought forth our Republic or can we sit down as brothers and sisters and discuss our differences with reason and goodwill?

I have often wondered how many disputes could have been settled easily had the disputants only dared to define their terms.

So as to leave no room for misunderstanding, I shall define my terms:

1. Six years ago, I was sentenced to die before a firing squad by a Military Tribunal whose jurisdiction I steadfastly refused to recognize. It is now time for the regime to decide. Order my IMMEDIATE EXECUTION OR SET ME FREE.

I was sentenced to die for allegedly being the leading communist leader. I am not a communist, never was and never will be.

2. National reconciliation and unity can be achieved but only with justice, including justice for our Muslim and Ifugao brothers. There can be no deal with a Dictator. No compromise with Dictatorship.

3. In a revolution there can really be no victors, only victims. We do not have to destroy in order to build.

4. Subversion stems from economic, social and political causes and will not be solved by purely military solutions; it can be curbed not with ever increasing repression but with a more equitable distribution of wealth, more democracy and more freedom, and

5. For the economy to get going once again, the workingman must be given his just and rightful share of his labor, and to the owners and managers must be restored the hope where there is so much uncertainty if not despair.

On one of the long corridors of Harvard University are carved in granite the words of Archibald Macleish:

“How shall freedom be defended? By arms when it is attacked by arms; by truth when it is attacked by lies; by democratic faith when it is attacked by authoritarian dogma. Always, and in the final act, by determination and faith.”


I return from exile and to an uncertain future with only determination and faith to offer — faith in our people and faith in God.

Arroyo OKs construction of Cory monument – spokesman

GMANews.TV - Thursday, August 20
Aie Balagtas See, GMANews.TV
http://ph.news.yahoo.com/gma/20090820/tph-arroyo-oks-construction-of-cory-monu-d6cd5cf.html




President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has ordered the construction of a monument for former President Corazon Aquino in the capital city of Manila, a Palace spokesman said Thursday.

In a press briefing, deputy presidential spokesman Anthony Golez said the monument would be erected at the Rizal Park, known to many as the Luneta.

"Press Secretary Cerge Remonde mentioned that there was an instruction (from) the President to push through with the idea of coming up with a monument," Golez said.

The monument is aimed at honoring Mrs. Aquino, whom Golez described as "an extraordinary woman."

The construction was based on the recommendation of the National Historic Institute, which will also oversee the project. It is expected to be completed within six months.

Mrs. Aquino, 76, died on Aug. 1 after a long battle with colon cancer. She was instrumental in the installation of Mrs. Arroyo in power during the 2001 EDSA revolution that ousted then President Joseph Estrada.

The two female leaders had a falling out in 2005, with Mrs. Aquino calling for President Arroyo’s resignation over allegations that she rigged the 2004 presidential elections.

Mrs. Arroyo maintains that she won “fair and square." In that election, she beat Fernando Poe Jr., the immensely popular Philippine action movie king who has never lost a fight in his popular movies.

Poe died of a massive stroke before Christmas of 2004, half a year after his defeat.

Olive oil is best remedy for stretch marks

By Ria Francisco-Prieto
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 21:59:00 08/20/2009
http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net/lifestyle/lifestyle/view/20090820-221264/Olive-oil-is-best-remedy-for-stretch-marks


AS MY BELLY grows bigger, I find myself staring at my legs and thighs and looking out for stretch marks
.

I remember about a year ago I faced the same predicament. I don’t mind anything else about pregnancy but this. Everything else will fade after birth, even zits. Stretch marks stay on forever.

Luckily, I hardly got any with my first pregnancy. Thanks to olive oil. Yes, the one used for cooking. I would slather it on while my skin is still damp right after a shower. Although it was a bit thick and warm, it moistened my skin. Plus it was so much more less expensive.

When it’s too hot, I use Clarins tonic, which I fondly call my gold potion. I love the smell plus it leaves my skin supple. Not to mention, it’s formulated particularly for pregnancy like Phytolastil gel which I get from my OB gyne Dr. Greg Pastorfide. He told me his patients who’ve had twins used this and did not have a single stretch mark.

My fear of stretch marks is due to the white deep lines I have on my legs. These ones I got at pre-adolescence. It depressed me and it still makes me sad. Thus my vigilance toward these nasty lines.

Although our skin is fairly elastic, stretch marks happen when the skin is overstretched due to sudden weight gain or loss, growth or pregnancy. The best defense is always keep skin moisturized with lotion or oil. Applying shea butter on breasts, stomach, thighs and back area, they say, is the most effective remedy against stretch marks. Drinking water and taking vitamins daily keep skin healthy.

Treatments

There is so little that can be done once stretch marks appear. But there are treatments that can minimize their appearance.

Chemical peels are a common way to deal with stretch marks. A pretty high tolerance to pain is required, since there is a stinging sensation that comes with it. A dilute form of acid is used to remove the top layer of skin and give way to skin-cell production. More than one session is required and there is also a risk of additional scarring from the chemicals used.

Laser surgery is expensive and five to six sessions are needed. Also, it works best on stretch marks that are still reddish-purple. It stimulates skin growth and improvement continues up to six months after laser treatment.

Stretch-mark cream and ointment can be costly and rarely make stretch marks disappear. I have yet to find one or hear about one.

So as I stare at the pre-adolescent stretch marks on my thighs, I conclude the only way to win the war against stretch marks is by preventing them. Now I should stand up, hit the shower and apply oil while my skin is still damp.

HTC Snap mobile phone

Want a budget Win Mob QWERTY handset?
Richard Knight
http://www.pocket-lint.com/reviews/review.phtml/4239/htc-snap-mobile-phone-review.phtml


20 August 2009 - We’re starting to see more and more Windows Mobile based handsets from HTC once again, with the likes of the Touch Diamond2 and Touch Pro2 making a hit recently and now the HTC BlackBerry-esque looking device has arrived.

This latest handset from them is a slim, light corporate mobile phone that could also have a place in the consumer world too, as more and more people are turning to a BlackBerry type of device than ever before. HTC could very well be aiming their sights at such individuals with the Snap handset.

They’ve bundled in with the Snap a very basic version of the Windows phone operating system known as Windows Mobile 6.1 Standard, which isn’t as flashy as the 6.1 Professional version we’re all used to seeing by now.

The company has even abandoned their regular TouchFLO user interface, seen on their other Windows Mobile handsets of late and have just included a simple home screen with all the commonly used applications. This isn't a touchscreen device which explains the shift.

Access to emails, SMS and appointments are all there in very easy to use menus, with no complexities whatsoever to navigate around. These are all accompanied by setup guides, ideal for those getting to grips with setting everything up, from appointments to getting email on the Snap, for the very first time.

One of the phone’s biggest selling points is a function HTC is calling Inner Circle. This allows for email addresses from your phone’s inbox to be added to a list, where at the press of a button the hundreds of emails are taken down to just that Inner Circle list for easy viewing. It's a little like prioritising your emails giving quick access to top clients or family.

It’s a handy utility for the phone and one that will undoubtedly be found useful in the corporate world as well as the consumer, our only wish is that this could also be applied to the SMS inbox as that could really be useful for a phone.

The Snap weighs in at just 120grams, whilst only being 12mm thick. This has to be one of the lightest and thinnest mobiles, corporate or otherwise we’ve seen to date. Whilst at the same time being rather sturdy, to the point of taking a few knocks and bruises doesn’t even faze the handset.

Touchscreen phones seem to be a favourite of HTC, where the Snap’s 2.4-inch 240 x 320 display isn’t of that calibre for a change. That is fine as it really doesn’t need to be there, as the handset has a BlackBerry-esque trackball that’s familiar to so many of the Research In Motion’s mobiles today.

Its rubberised QWERTY keyboard has a rounded feel to each and every key, raising it above the phone and giving off a larger surface area whilst typing, although we found the keys were a little too close together for comfort, which did take some getting used to.

The Snap features HSDPA for all your fast data, with Wi-Fi for office, home, or hotspot data collection, with the normal Bluetooth 2.0 for hooking-up to a headset. It also features a GPS, giving it a boost over BlackBerry's entry-level 8520 handset. Around the back you'll find a 2-megapixel camera. Internal memory is fairly minimal, but you can boost it with the addition of a microSD card.

Last but no means least is the battery life of the HTC, which took us back so much so that we repeated our testing a couple of times. Thanks to the 1500mAh Li-ion accompanying battery the phone lasted nearly 11 and a half hours of talktime, whilst still downloading emails throughout the course of a very long day.

This is one of the longest battery life of a single handset we’ve seen, making it very well suited for the business toil of corporate life.



Verdict

HTC has certainly made a phone worthy of the budget business and consumer world, one that the likes of BlackBerry and Nokia have been trying to do for some time. It’s a inexpensive handset but at the same time its looks don't suffer. It hasn’t got the exceptional qualities of other HTC phones, then again it’s not meant to as it’s just a decent handset for emailing and messaging.

Five users sue Facebook for being too social a network

Five users sue Facebook for being too social a network
AFP - Wednesday, August 19





SAN FRANCISCO (AFP) - – Five Facebook users are suing the social network for doing what made it an online superstar -- letting members share aspects of their lives on the Web.

A lawsuit filed Monday in a southern California court accuses Facebook of being a data-mining operation that does not deliver on promises to give users strict control of data uploaded to profile pages.

Facebook has dismissed the lawsuit as being without merit and promised a legal battle. The suit asks for unspecified cash damages.

One of the parties to the suit is a woman who joined Facebook in an early phase when membership was limited to the college crowd.

Then-Harvard University student Mark Zuckerberg founded Facebook in 2004 as a way for college friends to remain connected as their lives grew apart.

The suit accuses Facebook of betraying the woman by evolving into an open social network that now claims more than 250 million members worldwide.

Other plaintiffs named in the suit are identified as a photographer and an actress who contend Facebook is wrongly sharing pictures posted on their profile pages.

The remaining plaintiffs are young boys that the suit charges should not have been permitted by Facebook to join or post images or comments.

Facebook requires members to be ages 13 or older, but there is no viable tool to confirm ages of those creating accounts.

One plaintiff is an 11-year-old boy who joined Facebook and then posted that he had swine flu and uploaded pictures or video of "partially-clothed" children swimming, according to the lawsuit.

Facebook has steadfastly maintained that its members own information they post to profile pages and control who gets to see it.

Facebook has repeatedly revised its terms of service to appease privacy concerns of users while allowing for the technical side of running a social networking service.

Last month, Facebook announced it is testing a tiered level of privacy options including "all of your friends, your friends and people in your school or work networks, and friends of friends."

There is also an option to publicly share with everyone on the Web in what is being seen as an effort by Facebook to compete with the hot micro-blogging service Twitter.



http://ph.news.yahoo.com/afp/20090819/ttc-us-it-company-privacy-internet-trial-0de2eff.html

Ex-SKorean President Kim Dae-jung dies at 85

The former president of South Korea, Kim Dae-jung, has died at the age of 85.

Mr Kim, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2000, died today in a hospital in Seoul, after being treated for pneumonia for the last month.

His death was announced at just after 13:40 local time (05:40 BST), by a spokesman at the Severance hospital.

Mr Kim was president of South Korea from 1998 and 2003 and spent years attempting to pursue democracy and reconciliation with North Korea, and had pioneered his country's 'Sunshine Policy'.

During his time in office he survived numerous attempts to take his life, including assignation attempts and a death sentence.

He fought for human rights and democracy in his homeland and was branded a 'radical' during the country's military dictatorship. On his fourth attempt at the presidency he was elected in 1997, marking the first peaceful transfer of power since 1948.

His efforts as president to reconcile with North Korea culminated in the North-South summit. However, all reconciliation ties were cut last year, though yesterday attempts to restore them were announced with the lifting of movement restriction for tourism and families.

Mr Kim had described the biggest achievement of his presidency as the summit with Kim Jong-il in 2000, which paved the way to reconciliation between the north and the south and saw him win the Nobel Prize.


http://www.inthenews.co.uk/news/news/international-affairs/former-south-korean-president-dies-$1319575.htm

‘Rat-eating’ plant found in Palawan

MELISSA DE LOS SANTOS, GMANews.TV
08/18/2009 | 08:09 PM


Found deep in the jungles of Palawan is a most unusual rat trap designed by nature and only recently discovered by man.

An international team of botanists found a pitcher plant that eats rodents on rugged Mount Victoria in central Palawan, according to British news site Telegraph.co.uk.

An international team led by British botanists Stewart McPherson and Alastair Robinson found the plant in 2007 but their findings were published only this year in the Botanical Journal of Linnean Society after a three-year study of 120 types of pitcher plants.

The team, which included Elizabeth Gironella and Clemencio Peña from the Palawan State University, was informed of the plant’s existence by two Christian missionaries who scaled the mountain in 2000.

The rodent eater is among the largest of all pitcher plants. According to McPherson, “The plant produces spectacular traps which catch not only insects, but also rodents. It is remarkable that it remained undiscovered until the 21st century."

The rat-eating shrub dissolves its prey with acid-like enzymes inside its pitcher-shaped leaves. The pitchers measure 30 x 16 cm, double the size of usual pitcher plants found in the area.

Its funnel shape, a form usually associated with aerial types of the species, is distinct from its counterparts, which have a more rounded bottom. A terrestrial species, it has a red-lipped mouth topped by a smaller leaf called a lid.

John Pontillas, staff member of the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development, told GMANews.TV that the discovery “proves that the area is really bio-diverse."

He added that “we need to be more careful about putting up developments in that specific part of Palawan." Pontillas called for the re-evaluation of projects such as mining in the municipality of Narra, where Mount Victoria is located, to protect the habitat of the species.

University of the Philippines Botany lecturer Leonard Co recognized the newly-discovered species as “interesting" but describes the claims for its rodent-eating capabilities as “anecdotal, at best."

Co said the pitcher plant “cannot do that [create ‘spectacular traps’]" as it is only a “passive trap," which means that it waits for its prey to fall into its body rather than actively “look" for food.

However, he said it is possible that a small animal can fall into the plant’s cavity and get digested by its protein-dissolving enzymes.

The plant is now known as Nepenthes attenboroughii, named after British nature filmmaker Sir David Attenborough.

McPherson said they decided to name it after Attenborough because his work “has inspired generations toward a better understanding of the beauty and diversity of the natural world." – GMANews.TV

http://www.gmanews.tv/story/170117/Rat-eating-plant-found-in-Palawan

"Magre-resign ako kung mali ako..."

Humaba na ang usapin tungkol sa kontrobersiyal na pagpapatanggal ng TV host na si Willie Revillame sa inset ng funeral cortege ni dating Pangulong Corazon Aquino sa Wowowee noong August 3. Hanggang sa umabot na ang isyu sa pagpa-file ng indefinite leave of absence ni Willie sa kanyang noontime show sa ABS-CBN.

"ALAM KO TITIRAHIN NA AKO NG LAHAT." Pero bago nag-leave si Willie sa Wowowee noong August 8, nagkaroon ng pagkakataon ang PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) na makausap siya sa kanyang dressing room sa ABS-CBN. Dito ay ipinahayag niya ang kanyang panig sa insidente.

"Tinitira na ako, di ba?" umpisa niya. "Hindi naman ako nakapag-offend nun, e, di ba? Alam ko titirahin na ako ng lahat. Iki-clear ko lang yun... Hindi ko naman 'pinagtatanggol ang sarili ko."

Kuwento niya, "Kasi ganito ang nangyari... Nung Monday [August 3], dumating ako dito [sa Wowowee studio]. Tumawag si Phoebe [Anievas, executive producer ng show]. 'Kuya, baka ma-preempt tayo, maggi-give way tayo.' Sabi ko, 'That's good. Sige, mag-give way tayo.' Tapos, biglang mamaya, 'Kuya, okey lang na mag-tape tayo for tomorrow, which is Tuesday.'

"So, Monday yung live; Tuesday and Wednesday, yung magiging taping namin. Pero kahapon [Wednesday] wala dahil preempted nga. Sabi ko, 'Good, para makakapagbakasyon tayo.'"

Patuloy niya, "So, maya-maya nag-tape na ako ng opening, 'Giling-Giling.' Tinape ko na lahat. So, from there, na-stop lang kami sa 'Willie of Fortune.' Bakit? Kasi magla-live na raw. So, nagulat na naman, 'Bakit magla-live na naman tayo?' E, yun daw ang order.

"Sige, nanonood ako dito [sa dressing room]. Napapalabas na kami. Tinape ko na yung unang portion, e. Ang unang portion, yung 'Giling-Gling' at saka 'Cash or Bukas.' So, nai-tape ko na. Yung 'Willie of Fortune,' wala pa. So, habang naonood ako sa [dressing] room ko, naggigiling-giling kami lahat, in-insert ang kabaong ni Tita Cory.

"Diyos ko! Tinawagan ko si Tita Linggit [Tan, Head of TV Production]. 'Ta Linggit, ano ba naman 'yan? Ang pangit. Ang pangit sa atin niyan. Nagluluksa, nagdadalamhati ang kasambayanan, and then makikita na nagsasaya tayo.'

"Tinanggal naman. So, wala. Okey na. Bumalik naman ako live na 'Willie of Fortune.' E, di masaya. I think yung pangalawang contestant, yung dalawa, sumasayaw yung babae, pinasok na naman [yung live footage]!Doon ako nag-react. Imagine, sinabi ko na, di ba?

"From then, ang sinabi ko, nilabas ko na naman. Sabi ko, 'Wala ba kayong pakiramdam?' So, sana prineempt na lang natin. Hindi na lang tayo inere. Yun ang totoong nangyari. In fairness naman sa ano, fault naman nila. Inamin naman nila sa akin, may mali sa traffic daw yun, e.

"My point is, kung napanood ninyo yung YouTube nung Monday, maayos naman yun. 'Ano ba naman kayo? Paano ako makakapagsaya kung makikita ko si Tita Cory nand'yan. Ang pangit tingnan,' sabi ko, di ba? Inalis na yun. Ang dami nang nag-ano. Siyempre, gagamitin na 'yan," paglalahad ni Willie, ang tinutukoy ay ang mga malimit tumiligsa sa kanya at sa Wowowee.

"MAGRE-RESIGN AKO KUNG MALI AKO." Ano ang sinabi sa kanya ng ABS-CBN management?

"Ang sinabi ko sa ABS-CBN, 'May mali ba ako o wala?' 'Hindi, tama ka nga... Yung manner.' 'Manner? Tinawag ko na sa inyo 'yan before off-cam. Tinawag ko na 'yan sa inyo,' kay Tita Linggit. Siguro, di ba, from then na tinawag ko kay Tita Linggit, ino-on na naman [yung funeral cortege] doon sa 'Willie of Fortune.' Si Tita Linggit, na-off siya doon. Medyo nagalit siya doon. Kasi siyempre, in-order na niya yun, e.

"Hindi ko alam kung sa traffic 'yan o sa News or whatever. So, sabi ko sa ABS-CBN... Nagwo-worry sila, ang daming text brigade. Kahit na po mag-text brigade dalawampung milyon, otsenta milyon, kung mali ako, sabi ko, tatanggapin ko. Magre-resign ako kung mali ako, di ba?

"Pero kung sakali naman na tama ako, kahit mag-text lahat 'yan, paniniwalaan n'yo ba 'yan? E, siyempre, paninira na sa inyo 'yan. 'Tsaka tandaan ninyo, hindi lang naman tayo ang istasyon. Maraming istasyon. Hindi ko sinasabing... Hindi ba, maraming nagmamahal sa ibang istasyon? So, yung ayaw sa akin, di ba, yung mga solid sa akin, yun lang naman 'yon?"

Matapos ay sinabi niya tungkol kay former President Cory: "Naging Pangulo 'yan, e. 'Tsaka honestly, tine-text ako ni Kris [Aquino, Cory's youngest daughter]. 'I just wanna tell you... I was supposed to tell you last night,' sabi niya. Kahit nung namatay [si President Aquino], nag-message na agad siya [Kris] sa publiko. Sabi ko, 'Condolence to your family, Kris. I hope you're okay.' 'Thank you, Willie...' Nung Sabado yun. 'Gusto mo ba magsalita ako in your behalf? Ano gusto mong sabihin ko sa publiko?'

"Sinabi niya yun. Nasa akin yung text niya na, 'Sabihin mo na lang my whole family is thanking everyone.' Tapos sabi niya, 'On a personal note,' sabi niya, 'Ah, alam mo ba napasaya mo ang Mommy ko? Kasi kapag binabati mo si Josh at si Baby James [mga anak ni Kris], ngumingiti ang Mommy ko. And there was a time na kumakanta kayo nung black guy...' Kinanta kasi yung 'Ikaw Na Nga' nung Negro [sa show], di ba?

"Ang nangyari daw doon, si Baby James, after ng song, kiniss daw ako sa TV. Pagkatapos, parang si Tita Cory, ngumiti raw. 'Alam mo, everybody was so down. But when Baby James kissed you on TV...' ngumiti raw ang Mommy niya. Parang naiba raw ang tempo sa ospital."

"MAGLA-LIE LOW MUNA AKO..." Aware si Willie na gagamitin ng mga kritiko niya ang insidente at hindi siya titigilan.

"E, yung ganun, hindi ka titigilan talaga ng mga 'yan. Magla-lie low muna ako, pero dahil sa health ko," diin ni Willie.

Kumusta ang health niya?

"Okey naman," sagot niya. "Hindi naman matindi. Meron akong iniinom na tatlong gamot, tatlo lang—meron sa Pantalox sa intestine, Plavix sa heart.... Wala naman akong high blood."

Hanggang ngayon ay naka-leave pa rin si Willie sa Wowowee at hindi pa tiyak kung kailan siya babalik sa show.

credit:
http://ph.news.yahoo.com/pep/20090817/ten-willie-revillame-magre-resign-ako-ku-fb4fa78.html

NLEX, SLEX link

Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. is looking for strategic partners for a planned multibillion-peso road project that will link the North and South Luzon expressways.

Company president Ramoncito Fernandez told reporters that the 13-kilometer totally elevated road connecting the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) to Skyway and the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) would be "capex-heavy" so they need partners for the venture.

"We're open to discussing [the connector road] with any potential partners. [It will be a consortium] but we don't know yet the structure. We are in the process of finding a financial adviser," he said, noting that the project is not within the scope of the concession of unit Manila North Tollways Corp. (MNTC).

Fernandez noted that Metro Pacific Tollways and state-owned Philippine National Railways have completed a pre-feasibility study on the P16-billion project, which will span from Road C3 in Caloocan City to Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue in Makati City. Around 80% of the connector road will be built over existing rail tracks and will shorten travel time from NLEX to SLEX to only 15 to 20 minutes.

Aside from the connector road, Metro Pacific Tollways is also eyeing to undertake Segments 9 and 10 or phase 2 of the NLEX which will require a construction cost of P10 billion.

"We're doing a lot of detailed studies. Segments 9 and 10 are still on preparatory stage," Fernandez said.

Segment 9 is a 4-lane, 3-km expressway linking NLEX to MacArthur Highway in Valenzuela City while Segment 10 will extend NLEX to Port Area via a 4-lane, 5-km elevated road from MacArthur Highway.

The two segments as well as the connector road are part of Metro Pacific Tollways' lineup of P38 billion worth of tollway projects. Other projects include Segment 8.1, a 6-lane expressway from Mindanao Avenue to the NLEX, and the Skyway Stage 2, where MPTC intends to increase its stake substantially.

Fernandez noted that Segment 8.1 has already been "financed internally" while 9 and 10 and the connector road will have to be funded through a combination of debt and equity.

"We'd like to have [the new projects] in 3 years. We might go to the market for funding."

Higher Manila North and Skyway stakes

Fernandez said they are in talks to buyout minority partner Leighton International Ltd. in MNTC after the latter expressed its interest to sell shares to Metro Pacific Tollways.

"They have signified their interest to sell," he said.

Metro Pacific Tollways owns 67.1% of MNTC while Leighton holds around 17%.

Meanwhile, the company is also eyeing to beef up its stake in the Skyway 2 project to around 30-33% from the current 5%, said Jose Ma. Lim, president and chief financial officer of Metro Pacific Investments Corp., parent of Metro Pacific Tollways.

"We're still waiting for them (CMMTC) to finalize. We have come to agreement in principle on the terms and pricing but this is still subject to confirmation," he said.

CMMTC or Citra Metro Manila Tollways Corp. is currently building Skyway 2, a P10-billion 7-km elevated expressway connecting Bicutan to Alabang. Lim said the company has a combined holdings of about 66% in the project.

With a report from Liza Reyes, ABS-CBN News


credit: http://ph.news.yahoo.com/abs/20090818/tph-update-metro-pacific-seeks-partners-85c5a6c.html