You've probably heard about it. You've probably seen it in your Facebook news feed: your friends talking to this yellow chatting robot that looks like a bird, only it has one curly hair.

          Some are pissed to what this bird is really talking about. Some are entertained. Some are so into it, they do it a couple of times daily. Simsimi sure invaded each and every life of Filipino Facebook users.

          Simsimi is an artificial intelligence conversation program that was created in 2002 by the ISmaker. The said application has led to huge controversy and protests in Thailand for some of it's responses containing profanity and rude criticisms to leading politicians (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SimSimi)

          According to a recent survey, almost 612,000 Filipinos use Facebook. Imagine that the half the Facebook users uses the Simsimi app, that's one heck of a deal right there. Let's say that most of the users are children. Children who learn something obscure and profane. It is quite alarming. Though I'm not saying the let's avoid using it, I'm just saying that there should be some filtering system that will help detect the phrases that this app presents.


SIMSIMI EVERYWHERE

        Just in case you still don't get it, we collected a few screen caps from everywhere in the net. See for yourself.

So SimSimi changes its mind easily...

It can give you love advices...

It can speak in Filipino...

as it can also speak and understand other languages...

          So, you see, if you are bored and you want someone, or something for that matter, to talk to, you just visit SimSimi. But just to warn you, SimSimi sometimes doesn't make sense, and if you're the type that gets ticked off easily, well, just don't take SimSimi too seriously. Don't hurt yourself.

        What's a "Monthsary" anyway? It is an occassion commonly practiced by Filipinos. (Hey there, Pinoys!) Monthsaries are like anniversaries, The only difference is that there are only 11 monthsaries, the 12th would already be an anniversary. Monthsaries are special -- or at least they say it should be. It's like celebrating an anniversary... monthly. Got it? Just pretend you do.

        And just in case you were looking for some help or should we say "Monthsary Celebration Tips", we're here to give you some. So get ready to foolproof your special day.


WHERE TO GO

        While it might be memorable to go to the movie house and watch romantic flicks (or action. or horror. whichever you two feel like watching), it might just be plain. Like it's a regular thing to do these days. You could do it on an ordinary day.

        So, we thought of better places for ya. Here's eleven:

Try exploring places where you both could learn something. Just in the Metro:
(http://www.philippinesboard.com)

1. The Manila Ocean Park

        It's located at the back of Quirino Grandstand, Manila. Ocean Park is the first and the only oceanarium in the Philippines. This place will relax your mind in viewing the sea inhabitants of different marine species. Manila Ocean Park will introduce you to the water world of adventure and learning.

2. The National Museum


        The National Museum is located at the Rizal Park Manila, a place of discovery and history that will introduce you to the colorful life and traditions of the Filipino people even of the past and the present. Featured are the various paintings of the Filipinos who in over time invigorate the minds of every individual seeing. The paintings are just a proof of the creativity and hardworking characteristics of the Filipinos. The National Museum reveals the broad and rich life of the early Filipinos who strove and fought for a better life today.


3. Fort Santiago


         Fort Santiago is a part of the walled city of Intramuros. This historical place brings you to the past of Manila and as you walk though the walls, you can ever imagine a relaxation that it brings. The remarkable structure of Fort Santiago will give you an extraordinary experience as if youve travelled back in time and discovered the unrevealed past. It is a romantic place of history for everyone.


4. The Rizal Park


        Rizal park or famously known as Luneta, a simple yet historical landmark of heroism in the Philippines. The family usually unwind here after the full weeks work and they gather here to enjoy the beauty of the park. This is a must-see place in Manila where every Filipino loved for its unique serenity and tranquility.

5. The Manila Bay

        Manila Bay or locally known as Baywalk, is never gone on the list of the Filipino itineraries of Manila getaways. After a day of activities, many Filipino prefer to come here to see the famous sunset of the Manila bay. It gives them a warm feeling of contentment and courage to overcome the problems and crisis they may encounter and strengthens their hearts to keep the smile on their faces. It reminds them that for every sunset, there will be another sunrise on their lives.


But just in case you two are food enthusiasts and really enjoy dinner dates and prefer this than strolling in the park, there are perfect restos for you (you know, if you like eating yummy foods that won't hurt your wallet so much). Also just in the metro:

6. Banaple

        In case you haven't tried eating here just yet, then go ahead and try it already! Treat your partner with yummy pies, cheesecakes, pizza, pasta, and more! It's worth it! But please, do try their banoffee pie. It's a must taste recipe of Banapple. They've got lots of branches. So just go to the nearest one to you.

7. Red Crab


         The Red Crab offers delicious seafood and steaks, but try their seafood! Steaks could be eaten someplace else. You can visit the Red Crab branch near you. Go ahead and pig out, it's your special day anyway!

8. Cafe Lydia's


        It's located in Marikina. We're guessing you haven't heard of it yet and we're guessing that our guess is right. It's kind of hidden somewhere, and you have to really go there, but believe us, the food+low price combo is worth it! Pasta and pizza and cakes and many more. You'll leave the place thankful you've discovered it.


Or try going somewhere special for the two of you...

9. The place where you first met

        Some people find it corny or cliche, but still, some find it cute. They say the place brings back lots of memories. Some people say it makes you wanna fall in love again. True or not, it's not bad to try.

        And If ever you do not find that place romantic, like if you met on the school hallway, then it's time to be creative about it... Or think of another place that you two hold close to your hearts. This is the tricky part: you might have gone there a lot of times already, but creativity is the key! Think of something that will make your night extraordinary. (Tip: Surprises could be very useful in these times.)


Or try exciting places if you two love doing something out of the box...

10. Seriland Fantasy World

        Seriland Fantasy World is a 1,200-square meter theme park located at the 2nd Level, South Wing of the Manila Ocean Park, Quirino Grandstand, Luneta Park, Manila, and offers never before seen attractions in the country. It was developed out of curiosity of the science of 3D technology and the ambition to bring to the Philippines the attractions of SEOGWIPO SERI WORLD theme park in Jeju, South Korea. Eventually, friendship and business partnership between Filipino and Korean investors was developed and both committed to provide unique and challenging attractions and promote fun-learning experience through the educational and entertainment value of Seri Fantasy World.

        Its three (3) main attractions, namely TRICK ART MUSEUM, MIRROR MAZE and 3D CINEMA PLUS, are equipped with different angles of 3Dimensional technology for visitors of all ages. (http://www.theallaroundmom.info)

 11. The MOA Eye

        Located just across the SM IMAX parking lot, this giant ferris wheel towers at 160 feet overlooking the fame Manila Bay. The ferris wheel carriages and coaches are air-conditioned so its perfect to ride up even if the day is hot.  Fee to ride the Philippines’ tallest ferris wheel is at P150 per person, vip gondolas are to be pegged at P200.  And the more awesome news is that the SM Moa Eye is located inside the SM amusement park complex, and entrance to the theme park is free and you only have to pay for the rides that you want to try out. Once fully completed, this theme park will be home to 30 or so different heart pumping rides and spectacular attractions. (http://penfires.com)

        We might gave you some of the hottest places around town, but that doesn't mean you need to follow them. It is a matter of knowing what you guys want. At the end of the day, you two will celebrate the most special day in your lives, that moment when you met that one person you will hope to share the rest of your life with.

        What matters most is you value and LOVE one another. <3

Get ready little monsters, she’s coming back in May as LADY GAGA PRESENTS THE BORN THIS WAY BALL TOUR! rawwr!

          "Friends, we are truly grateful that you are riding this "yellow boat" with us, with our sort of the new Balangay, which Filipinos in the past have used to build communities all around our amazing archipelago. That is also what we are building today. We keep repeating it, the Yellow Boat Project is a way of life, it's a philosophy that for CHANGE to happen, it must start with each one of us. We are all part of the solution!" - Philippine Funds for Little Kids, Spearhead for The Yellow Boat Project (www.facebook.com/philippine.funds)


The Yellow Boat Project

         What is this "Yellow Boat", really?

          It started when Jay Jaboneta, now Chief Storyteller of the project, heard the story about kids from Zamboanga having to swim across waters just to reach school and have a decent education.

Photo Courtesy: Mr. Jay Jaboneta

          After confirming that the story is true, he was deeply moved that he then posted a status on Facebook about it, completely unaware that that little act will start a movement. Shortly after that, people were also touched and comments flooded the status and he received messages from people who wanted to help, willing to donate money for the kids.

          Then he reached a very generous amount, which started Zamboanga Funds for Little Kids. The money was used for making boats, so instead of swimming an awful distance, the kids were given yellow boats. This boats, named Bagong Pag-asa (New Hope), are intended to give them a glimpse of renewed hope, colored yellow not only symbolizing hope, but also imitating the usual school buses that brings kids to school.

          But after a period of time, he discovered that the same situation is experienced in other provinces in the Philippines too: Layag-Layag, Brgy. Talon-Talon, Zamboanga City; Isla Mababoy, Brgy. Guinhadap, Monreal, Masbate; and Lakewood, Zamboanga del Sur.

          The project then reached those places and The Yellow Boat Of Hope Project went on, even reaching now the attention and help from international associations such as Facebook itself and Tedx.

Photo Courtesy: Philippine Funds for Little Kids

Jay Jaboneta: The Fire Starter

          Who is this Jay Jaboneta? Why such a huge heart? If you are also wondering, we'll introduce him to you.

          Mr. Jay Michael Jaboneta is a blogger now known for using Social Media for Social Change. All it took for him to start a change was just a simple Facebook status. He's looked up to because of his passion to help children that braves the water everyday.

Photo From http://www.gilcamporazorandomthoughts.info/

          Eager to inspire more people and get them to help him in this mission, he spread out the message of HOPE -- an acronym for:

H – harnessing your potential/passion;

 "It is about finding your passion in life. I personally feel, even after 16 months into the project, that I have found my life’s mission and it is to help children who struggle to go to school.
And more than that, it is to help bring communities in the Philippines the resources they need to get a better chance in life. Without discovering what you are passionate about in life, it is very hard to stay focused on a mission, on a project. You’ve got to find what you love to do."

O – opening your mind/opening your heart;

"When I first heard about the story, I couldn’t shake it off. I didn’t know what to do then. I shared it on Facebook, not thinking that it would transform into a thriving national movement helping children in 3 communities around the Philippines."

P – perspiration;

"You cannot help people without getting both your hands and your feet dirty. When we want to help people, we should act on it. Only in doing so can we gain insights into how our efforts and operations can be made better. Perspiration is very good for the body and the soul too, as it cleanses our system. Personally, I have become thinner as a result of my involvement in the project."

E – empowering others.

"And this is for me, where the challenge really lies, even when you think of our national leadership. In order to succeed sustainably, we must equip and empower more leaders to take on the challenges in education and the other challenges our country is facing."

GIVE A HELPING HAND

          After knowing all these, The Phrontisterion is giving you another thing to think about. It's now up to you to help give these kids a shot to a better life, a better future.

          You can contact them through their websites:
          http://www.facebook.com/philippine.funds
          http://twitter.com/PHF4Kids
          http://yellowboat.tumblr.com/

          You could also reach Mr. Jay Jaboneta himself through his email address: jay.jaboneta@gmail.com.

          It's always fulfilling to help others, right? Let's make the world a better place.

It’s the time of the year again when the whole world unite and switch off their lights for one environmentally cause.

Hundreds of millions of people, businesses and governments around the world unite each year to support the largest environmental event in history – Earth Hour

Last year, more than 5,200 cities and towns in 135 countries worldwide switched off their lights for Earth Hour 2011 alone, showing the power to change the world they live in with just one switch.

” With the invitation to ‘switch off’ extended to everyone, Earth Hour quickly became an annual global event. It’s scheduled on the last Saturday of every March – closely coinciding with the equinox to ensure most cities are in darkness as it rolled out around the Earth.” - Earth Hour

This year, we are again sending powerful message for action on climate change. Come March 31 2012, people across the globe will come together for a common cause; proving great things will be achieved if we commit to lasting action for the planet.

The climate challenges facing our planet are so significant that change needs to be global.
“In 2011, Earth Hour saw hundreds of millions of people across 135 countries switch off for an hour. But it also marked the start of something new – going Beyond the Hour to commit to lasting action on climate change. And with the power of social networks behind the Earth Hour message, we hope to attract even more participation so we can build a truly global community committed to creating a more sustainable planet.” – Earth Hour

For Philippines’ preparation, the cities of Makati, Cebu and Davao will lead the switch-off ceremonies. Other cities and towns are also expected to hold well-organized events to observe the switch-off.

”WWF-led switch-off ceremonies are slated for– though Makati City’s Ayala Triangle Gardens shall be the central hub for Luzon. At 6:30 PM on 31 March, glow-in-the-dark dance troupe Bailes de Luces and the Caracol dancers shall form the vanguard of an Earth-themed parade which starts at the Makati fire station and ends at Ayala Tower One – where WWF-Philippines National Ambassador Rovilson Fernandez shall host a programme with performances from El Gamma Penumbra, Brigada and other groups. No less than Earth Hour founder Andy Ridley shall lead the country’s main switch-off event, hosted by WWF with the help of Ayala Land and the Makati City Government.” - WWF Organizers

Cebu City’s Plaza Independencia shall be the chief switch-off site for the Visayas, while SM Davao shall be the main switch-off site for Mindanao. 



“We’re extremely excited for this year’s switch-off ceremonies. Though the Visayas and Mindanao have always observed their own unique switch-off ceremonies, WWF has traditionally celebrated Earth Hour from Manila. To commemorate our country’s fifth Earth Hour, we thought it high time for WWF to observe the movement across the archipelago – which has always been what we’ve aimed for.” Earth Hour Philippines National Director Atty. Gia Ibay shared.

        Nobody could deny it, the crowd was given a really good show by Journalism section 3-1D. They did a glamorous job in showing the fashion and culture of South Korea for 2012's Le Vogue.


THE SHOW

         Basically, there were three parts of their show: the opening act, the modern casual wears, and then the avant-garde collection. Everything went smoothly and by the reactions of the audience, it is safe to say that what they've shown was extraordinary.

The Opening Act:


          The opening act was a perfect mood setter for whatever it is that they prepared for the viewers. The breathtaking view of the Queen parading with two servants and two guards, with the colorful and majestic traditional royalty hanboks of Korea.

      
          And then followed by an important announcement, "The King has arrived!," spoken in Korean language. This is another eye catcher, the servant in costume, the beautiful Korean flag being waved, plus the words spoken.

          Then the King has arrived (not to mention the crowd giggling and shrieking at the sight of the handsome King)...


          The King, dressed in a royal blue hanbok and would seem to be imposing his power, just like the king in Korea is respected. The audience appears to be awestruck.

           And the story went on. He meets the Queen, orders everyone out. The Queen confronts the King about personal issues, and just then, a servant reappears to give both of them a cup of tea... the other poisoned. The Queen collapses and then dies. The King approaches the servant, and to everyone's surprise, kisses the servant. Gasps and mixed reactions from the audience are heard. End of story. Betrayal, death, much like the elements in a typical Korean drama. Beautiful. Creative. They just hooked the audience in that instance.



 The Casual Wear

        To give the spectators a glimpse of Korea now and then, a timeline of their casual fashionable wears were presented.



Sexy and Stoic.

                This orange-colored dress flawlessly cut, exuding an exquisite flowy impression represents Korea’s best known food that is - - kimchi. Made from sheer fabric, topped with sequin embellishments, and braided details, the dress is carefully designed and specifically made; the elegant trail was even hand sewn to capture the rich and fiery nature of Kimchi. Kimchi has become the quintessential symbol of Korean culture and despite having a reputation for being spicy, most people usually develop a taste for it.

          This outfit is inspired by South Korea's National Flag, Taegeukgi, aiming to showcase its simplicity and fierceness. It is made of carefully chosen fabrics accented with the flag's red and blue taegeuk and the four black trigrams. The flag could be traced back into Chinese origins hence the eum and yang in the center describing perfect harmony, like that of China's yin and yang.

          The white background symbolizes the cleanliness of the people, while the Taegeuk - geon, ri, gam, and gon - represent the sky, sun, moon and earth, respectively. Altogether, they represent a continuous movement within infinity.


          TRADITIONAL MASK


          This outfit is inspired by Korea's traditional mask which is one of their national cultural assets. The top is made of leather representing stability having red and black trail representing passion and death. This is accentuated by traditional masks on both shoulders. Masks are traditionally used in wars in both soldiers and horses, and in burial rites and for driving away evil spirits. Today, masks are used as souvenirs, ornaments or keychains, but it will forever be Korea's national treasure.


          JOGAKBO


          This outstanding creation is inspired by the Korean traditional patchwork called Jogakbo. The beauty of the patchwork comes with the expression of refined handcraft and sincerity. This beautifully crafted piece is made from small pieces of cloth like cotton and silk, its skirt made from quality satin. Jogakbos express the Korean women’s sense of beauty and creativity. By mixing and matching small pieces of different shapes and sizes of cloth, Korean women created Jogakbo for their daily practical uses like house decorations and wrapping purposes.

          HIBISCUS

Vibrant and Vivacious.

          Bathed in bright hues of purple and pink, this perfect little pair of tube top and tutu skirt embodies the national flower of Korea that is - - mugunghwa or commonly known as gumamela. Intricately designed and executed, the multiple layers and lovely details from top to bottom signify the natural allure of the flower. The whopping and equally  animated drape at the back, however, showcases the innate delicateness of mugunghwa. In Korean, mugunghwa means “immortal flower.” The flower’s tenaciousness, seen it’s ability to survive even insect attacks, makes it an appropriate symbol for country that has fought throughout history for it’s very existence.

           TIGER


          This outfit is inspired by Korea’s National Animal, the Amur (Siberian) Tiger. The coat is covered in fur that resembles that of the fierce animal while the body is embellished with its characteristic stripes. The Siberian tiger is reddish-rusty or rusty-yellow in colour, with narrow black transverse stripes.  In Korean history and culture, a tiger is regarded as a guardian that drives away evil spirit and a sacred creature that brings good luck – the symbol of courage and absolute power. The sacredness of the tiger was also utilized for holding rituals that pray for rain.

          KOREAN MAGPIE


          This extravagantly made creation is inspired by Korea’s State Bird, "ggachee" or the Korean Magpie. The colorful character of Korean magpie is truly a delight to observe; unpredictable, high-spirited and expressive. This magnificently designed piece is made from beautifully embedded blue sequins mini dress, carefully tailored lace in the right side. The feathers of the wings similar with the Magpie’s, show strong purplish-blue iridescence with few of green hues. Korean Magpie is a common symbol of the Korean identity, and has been adopted as the "official bird" of numerous South Korean cities, counties and provinces.

          And lastly, their lovely professor, Ms. Lailanie Teves...


          Dressed in a simple outfit, emphasizing her effortless beauty and the youthful glow of her face. Like every year, she has been a stunner, wowing the crowd with her looks.


          Truly, South Korea is a magnificent country with a marvelous culture. We'll see the fruit of BJ 3-1D's labors on the 26th of March. The announcement of winners will be on the prestigious Sikat Awards. We'll keep you posted! Kamsahamnida, Phrontites! ^_^*

          "Le Vogue", brainchild of Professor Cherry Pebre, has been a tradition for the College of Communication of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines. Every year, the juniors (third year students from three courses: Broadcast Communications, Journalism, Communication Research) of COC competes with showing off other countries' cultures through fashion and dance. This is a requirement for their subject, Intercultural/International Communication.

          This year, the dance portion of the show was decided to be taken off, plus some rules have been changed and new rules were also implemented. And so, with the fashion show being the only thing to compete with, the competition just got hotter.

          The glamorous event took place on the 2nd of March, held at PUP Freedom Park for the first time ever. COC took pride in showing the whole campus the creativity, beauty, the glitz and the glamor that the college has.

          Let's take a look at this year's happenings, shall we?

 SPAIN

BCR

AFRICA

BBrC 3-1D

 

RUSSIA

BBrC 3-1N

KOREA

BJ 3-1D

BRAZIL

BJ 3-1N

JAPAN

BBrC 3-2

PHILIPPINES

BBrC 3-3

          Pretty sure it's been one heck of a night. This will surely be a night to remember forever, especially for everyone who took part.

The critics. Wow, that must be a hard job.

          We feel sorry for the judges, though. It must be a very difficult job to pick the winners. However, the winners will be announced on the 26th of March, during the prestigious Sikat Awards. Sure enough, everyone is excited to know who the champion and the 1st and 2nd runners-up are. Good luck with that.

          While we congratulate everyone because, surely, your efforts will never be in vain, we would also like to congratulate the people behind the success of this annual event, especially Professor Cherry Pebre. Congrats Madam, Congrats COC!

          'Til next year's Le Vogue, Phrontites! Stay classy! ;)

--
Photo Credit to the excellent, Adrian Ocampo.