Saturday, February 27, 2016

The Kalyeserye Fashion Show!


The latest fashion collection are featured in the Kalyeserye Fashion Show on Eat Bulaga, where the baes, the EB babes, the lolas of Kalyeserye, and AlDub showcasing some fashion trends onstage like formal wear, casual wear, and summer wear.

The fashion show was a definite success and while this fashion show is a definite success, what to expect next, especially on Yaya Dub's imminent birthday celebration? Tune in on Eat Bulaga every weekdays for more Kalyeserye antics!

Photo: Official Eat Bulaga Facebook Page

20 Years of Pokemon: The history of main Pokemon games


February 27, 1996. The date when the first Pocket Monsters games rolled out in Japan for the Nintendo Game Boy in Red, Blue, and Green versions. Today officially marks the 20th anniversary of the Pokemon franchise and following the recent announcement of the next chapter of Pokemon gaming called Pocket Monsters Sun and Moon, now's the ideal time to look back into 20 years of Pokemon. First and foremost, let's focus on the main games. The spinoffs should come later but for now, let's discover the 20-year evolution of Pokemon games...like no one ever was. Yep, there goes that theme song...

- Red/Green/Blue/Pikachu - The first Pokemon games, the Red and Green versions, launched in Japan in 1996. You began as a young trainer hailed from Pallet Town and you've been given a choice of three Pokemons from Prof. Oak (Okido)'s lab; Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle. Then, you work your way to the top by catching Pokemon, evolve, battle trainers, and aim for the championship title at the Pokemon League. The list goes on and on and because these games have different versions, so is the different Pokemon offered in each version, and that's how link trading comes into view, allowing fellow players to trade each other's Pokemon.

Following the TV anime adaptation aired on TV Tokyo in 1997, a special Pikachu version was offered in September 12th, 1998, and while it retains the storyline from the three versions, the Pikachu version features scenarios different than the said versions as well as the iconic Pikachu voice heard from the TV series.

- Gold/Silver/Crystal - The dawn of the new millennium calls for the dawn of the second-generation Pokemon games as Pocket Monsters Gold and Silver were launched for the Game Boy Color on the 21st of November, 1999. In these installments, players can start out as either a Chikorita, Cyndaquil, or Totodile, and set off to a marvelous quest around the Johto region. Of course, there are some familiar faces from the previous games making an appearance such as Professor Oak (Okido) and Lance (Wataru), the Dragon-type master who used to be one of Kanto's Elite Four now named as the Johto League Champion. These installments introduced two new types; Dark and Steel. Magemite and Magneton, formerly only an Electric-type, was classified as Electric-and-Steel, while Eevee (whose evolutions begin with Vaporeon, Jolteon, and Flareon) gained two new evolutions in the form of Espeon and Umbreon.

A year later, a unified version of the two games, called Pocket Monsters Crystal, was launched, featuring an all-new storyline featuring the legendary Suicune. This version offers, for the first time, a choice where players can start as either as a male or a female trainer.

- Ruby/Sapphire/Emerald - The launch of Game Boy Advance sparks the advanced evolution of Pokemon games as the Ruby and Sapphire versions launched in Japan on the 21st of November, 2002. Set in the Hoenn region, players can start out with either Treecko, Torchic, and Mudkip, and set off to a new journey to become the best trainer in Hoenn while solving mysteries of the ancient prophecy that will shape the world. Apart from battles, contests are featured where trainers show off their Pokemon and their moves to wow the crowd. Of course, the braille part was the bit of the problem but the biggest problem that gamers complain that because these games cannot support connectivity with the previous games, they're missing out with their hard-worked Pokemon but a solution will be mentioned later on. Anyway, just two years after the Ruby and Sapphire games were launched, a unified version, called Pocket Monsters Emerald, was launched featuring an additional storyline featuring Rayquaza.

- Fire Red/Leaf Green - This is the solution the producers worked on; a reboot of the first-generation Pokemon games under the Fire Red and Leaf Green banner. These modern take on the classic Pokemon games were launched on the 29th of January, 2004, and although this is a remake of the classic games, Fire Red and Leaf Green features additional scenarios never before seen in the classic Red and Green games. These games offered, for the first time, a standard wireless connector where players can trade and battle each other wirelessly without the link cable.

- Diamond/Pearl/Platinum - The launch of the Nintendo DS prompted the producers to launch an all-new chapter of Pokemon games as Diamond and Pearl were launched in the 28th of September, 2006. Of course, 2006 marked the 10th anniversary of the Pokemon franchise, and these games made a milestone. In these games, players can set off with either Turtwig, Chimchar, or Piplup, and set off round the Sinnoh region. After clearing the game, players get a chance to transfer one of their Pokemons from the Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald, Fire Red, and Leaf Green games. Apart from new evolved forms of familiar Pokemon like Mismagius, Gallade, Tangrowth, Weavile, and others, Eevee's evolution is now rose to 8 with the addition of Glaceon and Leafeon.

Two years later, Platinum was launched featuring a brand new storyline takes place after the events of the Diamond and Pearl games. It also featured new forms of Rotom as well as new characters and other extras.

- Heart Gold/Soul Silver - With the success of the Diamond and Pearl games, the producers are happy to give the second-generation games another shot at fame to the DS as Heart Gold and Soul Silver were launched since the 12th of September, 2009. Apart from additional extras never before seen in the originals, Heart Gold and Soul Silver offers a standard PokeWalker device which allows players to wirelessly transfer a Pokemon to the device and walk their favorite Pokemon through virtual routes as they walk in the real world. Just like Diamond and Pearl, HGSS offers players wi-fi connectivity to allow players to compete or trade with others from around the globe.

- Black/White/Black 2/White 2 - Four years after the success of the Diamond and Pearl games, the producers decided to give another go with the DS by introducing the fifth chapter of the saga, titled Pocket Monsters Black and White. Launched since the 18th of September, 2010, players can explore the hidden world of the Unova region with either Snivy, Tepig, and Oshawott, uncover the sinister plot from an evil organization, and become the best of Unova. The battle sequences are becoming more livelier than ever as well as the animation process in-game that makes these installments more breathtaking than ever.

Two years later, a sequel titled Pocket Monsters Black 2 and White 2, features a brand new storyline set two years after the events of the original, as well as uncovering the hidden truth behind the legendary Kyurem.

- XY - The next evolution of Pokemon gaming has arrived on the 3DS as Pocket Monsters X and Y was launched worldwide on the 12th of October, 2013; featuring new Pokemon such as Chespin, Fennekin, and Froakie, exploring the majestic Kalos region, new features such as Pokemon-amie and Super Training, and breathtaking 3D battles. XY features Mega Evolved forms of some familiar Pokemon like Venusaur, Blastoise, Charizard, and Mewtwo, as well as the introduction of Fairy type. Much ado about the new type, from new additions like Flabebe, Swirlix, and Spritzee, to reclassified familiar ones like Clefairy, Jigglypuff, Togepi, and Gardevoir, Eevee's got a new evolved form Sylveon, bring the evolution count now to 9.

- Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire - Thanks to XY's success, the producers gave the classic Ruby and Sapphire games a much explosive reboot as Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire launched globally on the 21st of November, 2014. While it features the same features as the XY games, ORAS introduced Mega Evolutions of familiar favorites such as Blaziken, Sceptile, and Swampert, Secret Bases, soaring through mirage spots, and a lot of catching up to do for veterans and newbies alike, making these remakes the ultimate Pokemon experience alongside XY.

That's it for the main games! Next time, let's focus on the spin-offs! Until then, happy 20th anniversary to the Pokemon franchise!

Photo: Nintendo, Creatures, GAME FREAK, TV Tokyo, ShoPro,JR Kikaku

20 Years of Pokemon: Things we learned from the Pokemon Direct



Recently, the folks from Nintendo delivered a very special announcement to all the Pokemon fans from across the globe via a very special Pokemon Direct announcement.

The biggest announcement is none other than a teaser of the new generation of Pokemon games, which is definitely 20 years in the making, enter Pocket Monsters Sun and Moon.


Pocket Monsters Sun and Moon is the seventh itineration of the longest-running video game franchise and it's set for global launch at the end of 2016. The new games are now offered in nine different languages; English, French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Korean, Italian, Simplified Chinese (example; People's Republic of China) and Traditional Chinese (example: Hong Kong and Taiwan).

Best of all, the upcoming installments are Pokemon Bank applicable, meaning players can transfer their hard-worked Pokemon from XY and ORAS to their new games and as a bonus, the Pokemon they've trained from the 3DS Virtual Console versions of Pocket Monsters Red, Blue, Green, and Yellow (Special Pikachu Version) can also be transferred to the Pokemon Bank as well.

So, ace trainers of the world, are you ready for the next chapter of Pokemon games?

Friday, February 26, 2016

The OTWOL Finale!


ABS-CBN's hit TV drama, On The Wings Of Love, has finally reached the ending fans called it the best JaDine experience to remember because the finale not only shown in the Philippines, but also the rest of the world via TFC.

The first half of the finale sees Leah (Nadine Lustre) and Clark (James Reid) getting married...finally, while on the second half of the finale sees the newlyweds performed live onstage! This is the first time a TV drama like this pulled off the best sendoff to one of the Philippines' hit love teams like JaDine. The fans truly loved it and so do you.

It has been one heck of a ride in the love story of Leah and Clark after facing against multiple odds and in the end, it's their destiny that leads them to forever.

We hope you enjoyed the last flight of On The Wings Of Love and the cast and crew will thank you for your endless support.

ACHIEVE!!!

Let's Do The News! (February 26, 2016)


- Vice presidential aspirant Senator Alan Peter Cayetano vows that he will provide full PhilHealth coverage to all members of the Philippine Health Insurance Company if he got elected as vice president at the May 2016 elections. He made the statement during his Cebu visit to listen to the plight of indigent patients at the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center as part of the "Ronda Serye" listening tour he is holding nationwide alongside Davao Mayor and presidential aspirant Rodrigo Duterte.

- The People's Republic of China accused the US-backed Philippines of "political provocation" in seeking international arbitration over territorial claims in the South China Sea. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said the decision by Philippine leaders to lodge a case with a tribunal in the Hague last year was "irresponsible to the Filipino people and the future of the Philippines".

- Meanwhile, a top American admiral expressed concern that China will exercise "de facto" control of the South China Sea following its recent activities in the disputed sea.

- Earlier, Lanao del Norte Mayor Rommel Arnado of Kauswagan was disqualified for using his American passport after renunciation of his US citizenship. The recent disqualification of the mayor who used US passport does not apply to the case of presidential aspirant Grace Poe.

- Former executives of the Tokyo Electric Power Company are set to face court trial over the March 11, 2011 disaster at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant. Reports learned that court-approved lawyers have decided to indict former TEPCO chairman Tsunehisa Katsumata and former vice-presidents Sakae Muto and Ichiro Takekuro.

- US President Barack Obama wants all parties to a planned ceasefire hostilities in Syria's civil war to work hard for its success. The USA, Russia, and other nations agreed to a ceasefire from Saturday but the agreement doesn't include attacks against Islamic State militants. The Syrian government force under President Bashar al-Assad, and opposition forces, must notify the United States or Russia of their intentions by Friday noon in Syria.

- A teaser of the upcoming Aston Martin grand tourer is now live before the full uncovering at next month's Geneva Motor Show, highlighting the history of the Aston Martin DB bloodline.



- Developer Kunos Evoluzioni announced that the launch date for the console version of their Assetto Corsa racing game has been pushed to June 3rd for Europe and June 7th for North America.

- Lotus unveiled a more powerful Evora model called the Sport 410, features a 10hp increase to its supercharged 3.5L 6-cylinder engine as well as a drop of 154lbs of weight.

2017 Lotus Evora Sport 410

TTFN!!!

Renault Talisman

Today's luxury saloons in France is becoming a bit weary now and for a company like Renault, they're making drastic measures like replacing both the poorly-sold Laguna and Latitude with an all-new model with a familiar name. Enter the new Renault Talisman.

2016 Renault Talisman

The Talisman name from Renault was derived from two irrelevant vehicles; the first is a concept car circa. 2001 and the second is the Chinese version of the Renault Samsung SM7. For 2016, the Talisman is now used as Renault's flagship saloon that replaces both the Laguna and the Latitude. While it will be marketed exclusively in selected left-hand drive markets in Europe and Asia, there is a very high possibility that it will be selling in South Korea this Spring as the Renault Samsung SM6, although it is unclear if this saloon will replace both the SM5 and the SM7 (where the Talisman name was used for the Chinese market) respectively.

2016 Renault Talisman
2016 Renault Talisman interior

One of the key highlights of the Talisman is the design and thanks to Renault's new design language that incorporates the company's "La vie, avec passion" slogan, the exterior design of the Talisman incorporates a much athletic look for an executive saloon of this size. The front and the side profile looks fantastically gorgeous at all angles but the rear view kinda spoils the premium aesthetic. It's like fiddling a nice well-done brisket with labuyo and dinuguan and that's not first class dinner served at the table.

Just like the recent Espace and the Megane, there goes the new signature interior featuring an irreplaceable touchscreen with no CD players on it, which speedo boys called this dashboard layout a witchcraft because the audio system is very irreplaceable, just like high-end luxury cars whose radios will never be replaced indefinitely. Either way, the comfort really is German saloon quality, an aesthetic similar to Citroen's C5 when they marketed it to be unmistakingly German. Remember, this is a French saloon and the way Renault has done in the making of the Talisman is really great indeed.

2016 Renault Talisman

Now, let's talk about performance and by launch, the Talisman is offered in three different configurations; a 1.6 TCe petrol, a 1.5 dCi diesel, and a 1.6 dCi diesel. The most powerful one is the 1.6 TCe petrol with the 200ps power output which can go 0-100kph in 7.6 seconds and onwards to 237kph, while the most economical in the Talisman range is the 1,5 dCi engine with the combined fuel consumption of around 3.6L/100km. Depending on engine choices, the Talisman can be fitted with either a 6-speed manual, 6-speed EDC, or a 7-speed EDC. In terms of dynamics, the Talisman features  a four-wheel steering system and the Multi-Sense which allows the driver to choose four different settings as well as a customized preference to make driving a bit somewhat individual to each of their own. Whichever the settings implied, the Talisman feels very German again because it delivers the right blend of comfort and sportiness that most German saloons possess.

In terms of safety, the Talisman is offered with available safety tech such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, traffic sign detection, and blind spot alert, among many others.

Should you buy one? The Talisman starts at 27,900 (for the base Life model) up to 40,300 Euros (for the flagship Initiale Paris model), which is somewhat costly to own than the recent VW Passat, but despite the pricing, the Talisman from Renault has the equivalent feeling of German non-luxury saloons in terms of styling, comfort, and performance. There is nothing you can't go wrong about this latest offering from Renault.

Available colors: Gris Cassiopee, Blanc Nacre, Rouge Carmin, Blue Cosmos, Beige Dune, Brun Vison, Noir Etoile, Gris Platine, and Blanc Glacier.

Photo: Renault

Thursday, February 25, 2016

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: Two superpowers agreed on sanctions against NoKor


The two world superpowers, the United States and China, have finally reached an agreement on the UN Security Council's new sanctions on North Korea following its recent rocket launch and nuclear test.

It's a breakthrough, as the two nations wield veto power on the council but they were clashing about the level of sanctions to be imposed on Pyongyang. And now, members of the UNSC will assemble at the UN HQ in New York on the implementation of new, stronger sanctions on North Korea.

Unknown sources say the key NoKor agencies that are expected to be sanctioned include the General Reconnaissance Bureau, the Ministry of Atomic Energy Industry, and the National Aerospace Development.

Source: Arirang News

Let's Do The News! (February 25, 2016)


- February 25, 2016 marks the 30th anniversary of the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution. Thirty years ago, Filipinos band together to put the Marcos regime down to its knees and inspired pro-democracy uprisings in other parts in the world (like the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and the return of democracy in South Korea and Romania) and must not be forgotten by Filipinos. For the full speech of President Benigno Aquino III's message about EDSA 30, CLICK HERE.

- Davao City Mayor and presidential aspirant Rodrigo Duterte vows that the martial law during the Marcos regime will not be happening again if elected as the new leader of the Philippines.

- The Cupertino-based tech giant Apple faces 12 other requests to unlock its encrypted devices according to the court records from the US Justice Department. The requests were made since late last year but didn't mention about the case of a suspect in December's San Bernardino shootings.

- Margaret Chan, the head of the World Health Organization, sought continued cooperation from Brazilian officials and researchers in establishing a link between the Zika virus and a rare birth defect. Chan visited a public clinic in Brazil's northeastern state of Pernambuco before finishing her 2-day visit to the country.

- The North Korean women's soccer team arrived in Japan for the final round of the Asian qualifying matches for the Rio 2016 Olympics. The team flew from Beijing to Osaka on Thursday and despite sanctions after NoKor's recent rocket launch and nuclear test, they made an exemption by the Japanese government because an official said that athletes should not face discrimination based on nationality. The qualifiers kicks off on Monday and it will be a round-robin match where only the best two teams will enter the Olympics. Japan, South Korea, China, Australia, and Vietnam were one of them.

- Looks like the dream of having the world of Sword Art Online is slowly becoming a reality thanks to the cooperation with IBM Japan. They began taking preregistration for the alpha test, which will occur from the 18th to the 20th of March, 2016 and applications will be accepted until the 4th and 208 participants will be chosen.

- It may have been around for six years now but the Alfa Romeo Giulietta hatchback has been given a minor change with a revised exterior, revised interior, new tech, and a new logo.

2017 Alfa Romeo Giulietta


- Former Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson made a public apology and payed a hundred thousand pounds to former producer Oisin Tymon who was attacked in the incident last year.

- In case you missed the recent Eat Bulaga kalyeserye, today is the 32nd weeksary of AlDub and while the lolas are busy with their fashion show gig, Alden and Yaya Dub are onstage wearing their wedding attire, which sparked outrage from Lola Nidora. Because of that kissing incident occurred recently, Lola Nidora's back to her mean self again. Any eagle-eyed viewers caught where they kissed? Anyway, tune in next time to find out!

TTFN!!!

Wednesday, February 24, 2016

SEVENTH HAVEN

Fans of Dounts' ever-popular idol rhythm mobile game, Tokyo 7th Sisters will be familiarized with the story of the fabled idol group 7th Sisters, the idol group that rose to stardom until their breakup two years later, giving birth to new talents from the 777, the studio named in honor of the fabled idol group. Here's your chance to uncover their never-before told backstory in this new CD.

SEVENTH HAVEN

The latest single, inspired from the hit app game Tokyo 7th Sisters, features two songs performed by the legendary SEVENTH SISTERS (comprising of Nicole Nanasaki, Mito Hanyda, Mana Misonoo, Qruit Kotobuki, Rui Wakaoji, and Memoru Yusa) such as SEVENTH HAVEN and FALLING DOWN. The drama part, titled What is truly 2030??, gives listeners an in depth hearing on who are the SEVENTH SISTERS; two years before they're formed and four years before they're finished, giving fans a much critical backstory in the world of Tokyo 7th Sisters.

There was a limited edition where not only this disc is offered but also one of six special pin badges featuring one of the members of the legendary idol group.

Let's Do The News! (February 24, 2016)


- Vice President Jejomar Binay mulls building a Malacañang of Mindanao. In his speech, the United Nationalist Alliance's standard bearer wants to build a satellite office in Mindanao because he wants to reach out to them and address their concerns. He also states that if he became the new leader of the country, he will experience the true meaning of decentralization.

- Senator Ping Lacson mulls restoring the two-party system that would improve the current Philippine political system. The former senator pointed out that having a two-party system is one of the possible amendments to the 1987 Constitution worth considering.

- An "experimental" museum and an air show will be the top highlights of tomorrow's commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the People Power Revolution that put an end of the Marcos regime.

- The two global superpowers; the United States and China, showed no signs of tensions in the South China Sea as the two diplomats meet up in Washington for an agreement on a UN resolution to punish North Korea after its recent nuclear test and rocket launch.

- Meanwhile, South Korea responded aggressively on North Korea's warning referring to the annual drills scheduled to start on the 7th of March, stating they would carry out a pre-emptive strike at the slightest indication that enemy forces and equipment were poised for an attack and also targeting the South Korea's presidential Blue House. This year's US-SoKor joint exercises will be the biggest.

- Reports told that China has sent fighter jets to the contested island in the South China Sea where SAMs are deployed. The Chinese deployed a Shenyang J-11 and Xian JH-7 fighter jets over Woody Island, part of the Paracel chain controlled by the Chinese.

- The fourth-generation Renault Scenic MPV has been unveiled in time before its Geneva Motor Show debut this March.

2017 Renault Scenic
- The Volvo V40 range will be receiving a minor change prior to its Geneva debut next month, featuring a new design, new tech, and new features.

2017 Volvo V40 Cross Country
2017 Volvo V40

- Steven DeKnight, the executive producer of TV shows like Daredevil and Spartacus, pitches in as the director in the upcoming sequel of the Pacific Rim film.

- In case you never once heard of the Tokyo 7th Sisters, it's a idol rhythm app game set in the not too distant future where a new generation of idols straight from the studio 777 take the centerstage and continue the legacy where the legendary 7th Sisters left off. Anyway, a few already heard of it but its popularity is faring well with the other idol stuff we all know about. Anyway, 2016 marks its 2nd year in service and to celebrate the very occasion, a second live event has announced from the official website and it's happening this 21st of August, 2016, at the Pacifico Yokohama National Convention Hall. In addition, a second album titled "Are You Ready 7th-TYPES??" is coming this June 2016 with four new songs.

TTFN!!!

20 Years of Pokemon: The 20 best Pokemon Team Rocket belonged

Continuing on Pokemon's 20 year celebration this year, it might the (inappropriately) proper time to jot down the Pokemon belonged to the dastardly trio that keeps chasing Ash and Pikachu from all corners of the world; Team Rocket.


Team Rocket is known to be the most notorious band of Pokemon thieves in the world. Of course, there are different Team Rocket soldiers everywhere but the most famous ones are the dastardly trio of Jessie (Musashi), James (Koujiro), and their talking Pokemon Meowth. Of course, these bad guys deployed tons of inventions dedicated to steal Pikachu but they always blasting off again...and again...and again, every time, everywhere.

Team Rocket are always in the never-ending game of cat and mouse against Ash and Pikachu. They are cunning, vicious, and sadly, very stupid. Still, we enjoy these baddies blasting off as much as any other cartoon villains getting flung at the end and come back for more. So, ready to jot down the best of Pokemon belonged to the dastardly trio?

1) Ekans/Arbok - This slithering Pokemon has been the choice of Jessie when it comes to scare off Ash and Pikachu and even when it evolved into a much terrifying Arbok, it's great to say that Jessie had the best Pokemon until it was surrendered by a poacher in Hoenn.

2) Meowth - This talking feline needs no introduction because this feline is the third member of Team Rocket and always hatching plots to steal Ash's Pikachu, although most of its plans always failed. Meowth's a real bad guy and all bad guys are not cute...although our favorite Pokemon baddie is also tagging along with Pikachu and friends in series of adventures, including Pikachu shorts shown before a Pokemon movie.

3) Koffing/Weezing - James once said that his Koffing "smells like old sneakers soaked in stinkbug juice mixed with some rotten eggs and dead fish with just a touch of skunk fumes!" Same thing goes to its evolved Weezing and either way, this foul-odored Pokemon is always terrorizing Pikachu and friends with its foul and poisonous attacks. Sadly, like Jessie's Arbok, James' Weezing was surrendered to the poacher from Hoenn.

4) Growlie - When James used to be part of a wealthy family, his parents tried to marry him off to a girl named Jessebelle (who looks just like Jessie) and then he ran away along with his Growlithe named Growlie. Of course, with situations like these, James only relies on the "twerps" to escape from Jessebelle's clutches.

5) Lickitung - Because having one Pokemon isn't enough, Jessie gets another one to use it alongside her Arbok and that's a Lickitung, a Pokemon whose tongue is at least twice as long as its body. Sadly, her Lickitung was swapped for a worthless Wobbuffet, who became the fourth member of Team Rocket. How embarrassing.

6) Victreebel - Same thing goes for James because having a Weezing isn't enough so he gets himself a second cour and that's none other than a Victreebel, probably one of the grass-type Pokemons that like to munch on James' head.

7) Wobbuffet - After a mishaps that completely swapped her Lickitung for this, Wobbuffet officially became the fourth member of Team Rocket and always plays as the dimwitted member of the team.

8) Dustox - When May's Wurmple evolved into Silcoon and then Beautifly, Jessie's Wurmple evolved into Cascoon and then Dustox. In addition of using it to attack Ash and friends, Jessie's Dustox is also her one-way ticket to fame when it comes to participating Pokemon contests and facing stiff competition with May and her Beautifly.

9) Seviper - As a replacement for her Arbok, Jessie got a Seviper from the Hoenn region after facing a long-time feud with Zangoose. Although loyal to Jessie, Seviper never back down without a fight and when it comes to attacking Pikachu and friends, this Seviper is vicious.

10) Cacnea - Another grass-type Pokemon that likes to have James' head as its feast is a Cacnea.

11) Chimecho - Apart from his Cacnea, James' second Hoenn Pokemon is a Chimecho after being duped into buying a Hoppip. When it became sick, James left his Chimecho to his Nanny and Pop-Pop but vows to return for it after it recovers...which sadly he didn't came back for his Chimecho.

12) Yanmega - After Jessie captured a Yanma in the Sinnoh region, it evolved into a Yanmega very quickly and with its sharp sense of sight, Jessie's Yanmega can see everywhere when it comes to hunting down Ash's Pikachu.

13) Carnivine - Like Victreebel and Cacnea, James' Sinnoh Pokemon, Carnivine, is also a big fan of his head and likes to munch on it when he calls one out. Believe it or not, this Carnivine is James' long-lost childhood friend. Talk about a heart-breaking reunion, right?

14) Mime Jr. - While James' Nanny and Pop-Pop are nursing his sick Chimecho, this little Pokemon unknowingly jumps into an empty Poke Ball and became part of James' Pokemon entourage. Although cute, this little Pokemon tends to play tricks on Ash and friends.

15) Woobat - One of Jessie's Unova Pokemon in their never-ending game of cat and mouse against Ash and Pikachu, its Gust attack is strong enough to blow Ash's Pikachu out in the sky.

16) Frillish - This is also one of Jessie's Unova Pokemon and one grip from it can paralyze a Pokemon with poison.

17) Yamask - One of James' Unova Pokemon and a great friend of his upon feeding one because the only way to this Pokemon's hearth was through its stomach. It terrified Ash and the gang with its Will-o-Wisp attack as well as Shadow Ball.

18) Amoonguss - Also one of James' Unova Pokemon. Its Body Slam is so strong, it stopped Ash's Pikachu in its tracks and use devious array of attacks to make Ash and friends' lives miserable.

19) Pumpkaboo/Gourgeist - Jessie's Kalos Pokemon is a Pumpkaboo and she caught one upon being caught in a crossfire between them and a Pangoro. Believe it or not, the Pumpkaboo Jessie caught is a Super Size Pumpkaboo, the largest of the Pumpkaboos, and in the XY episode "A Festival Trade! A Festival Farewell?" a heartbroken trade made Pumpkaboo evolved into a Gourgeist and then traded back to Jessie's, showing how much she cherished her friendship with the Pumpkaboo. With the two together, not only they made Ash's life on field miserable, but also Serena's in Pokemon performances.

20) Inkay - Inkay is James' Kalos Pokemon which is also making Ash's life miserable with its Psybeam attack. Our favorite moment of James doing with his Inkay is disguising it into Pikachu while fooling the townspeople thinking that they're Ash (James), Serena (Jessie) and Bonnie (Meowth) in the episode "Heroes, Friends and Faux Alike!" but in the episode "Facing the Grand Design!", James' Inkay plays as the good guy to stop a sinister plot done by a horde of Malamars, showing how much love James and Inkay meant for each other.

That's it for the 20 best Pokemon belonged to Team Rocket as seen in the TV series. So, what's next during the year-long Pokemon 20 year celebration? Find out soon!

Oops! There goes the finishing line; WE'RE BLASTING OFF AGAIN!!!

Photo: Nintendo, Creatures, GAME FREAK, TV Tokyo, ShoPro, JR Kikaku

Tuesday, February 23, 2016

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: North Korean women's soccer team heads to Japan


The North Korean women's soccer team are heading to Japan to participate in the final round of the Asian qualifying matches for the Rio 2016 Olympics.

The recent sanctions posed by Japan against North Korea include a ban on North Koreans entering the country but the government decided to give them an exemption so it could take part in the Olympic qualifiers that begin in Monday. The team travelled from Pyongyang to Beijing on Tuesday and the Japanese Embassy in Beijing issued them entry visas.

North Korea is one of the six teams participating in the round robin competition, where only two teams will qualify for the Olympics. The other teams are Japan, China, South Korea, Australia, and Vietnam. The match between Japan and North Korea is set on the 9th of March, 2016.

Source: NHK World

Jubilee of Mercy: Jubilee of the Roman Curia

The Extraordinary Holy Year of Mercy kicks off today at the Vatican City with the opening of the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Jubilee of Mercy logo


February 22, 2016 - Pope Francis celebrated the Jubilee for the Roman Curia, the Governorate, and the Institutions attached to the Holy See, part of the ongoing Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy.



The Jubilee occurred on the Feast of the Chair of Saint Peter, which has the rank of "Solemnity" in the Vatican Basilica, at the Paul VI Hall, where employees of the Vatican and its related institutions, with their families, gathered for a meditation led by Father Marko Rupnik, SJ.

Report: http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2016/02/22/pope_celebrates_jubilee_for_roman_curia,_vatican_employees/1210403

The next event for the Jubilee of Mercy is on the 4th of March, 2016, for the 24 Hours for the Lord.

Let's Do The News! (February 23, 2016)


- The Philippines is keen in raising the issue of rising tensions in the South China Sea at the unofficial meeting of ASEAN ministers in Laos this week, following reports that Beijing deployed SAMs in Woody Island, a part of the Paracel Island chain in the disputed sea. Any member of the ASEAN may raise any issue in the ministerial retreat schedules on February 25 to 27.

- The University of the East issued a statement regarding the expulsion of high school students involved in the viral video regarding the defamation of the Philippine flag. According to the UE president and Chief Academic Officer Ester Albano Garcia, the board of trustees on February 18 unanimously voted to expel the high school students in the video but didn't identify and disclose how many were kicked out. UE released a statement deploring the disrespectful deed of its student shown in a viral video uploaded on the 9th of February, drewing criticisms from netizens as a student in one of the clasrooms in its high school department mopped the floor using the Philippine flag.

- The Iglesia Ni Cristo religious sect continues to grow despite setbacks and the recent church dedication in Southern California is just one of them following members and detractors staging a protest even from the sky to show support from the embattled religious sect as well as the visit of INC's top minister Eduardo V. Manalo.



- Following Nike, Wonderful Pistachios revoked its sponsorship with Manny Pacquiao following his controversial comments against LGBT.

- The death toll from a powerful cyclone that hit Fiji last weekend is now up to 21. Cyclone Winstone is one of the most powerful cyclone recorded in Fiji and caused havoc across the main island of Viti Levu. The Fijian government declared a month-long state of emergency.

- Apple called for an independent panel to discuss whether they should help FBI investigators hack into a locked smartphone belonging to a slain terrorism suspect. The Cupertino-based tech giant refused a request by the FBI to unlock the iPhone belonged to one of the San Bernardino attackers that killed 14 people last year. They posted on its website a message calling on the government to set up an independent panel of experts, calling it the best option.

- The Bentley Mulsanne has been updated for the 2017 model year and for the first time, an Extended Wheelbase model is added.

2017 Bentley Mulsanne

- Phat Company's figure of THE IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls' Minami Nitta, in her Love Laika costume, is now open for pre-orders! You can now book one for just 9,000 Yen plus tax and she'll be arrive to you this August. Be sure to pair one with the upcoming Anastasia Love Laika figure and you'll have yourself the complete duo!

Minami Nitta LOVE LAIKA Ver.
- Mr. Osomatsu fans, rejoice! The Matsuno sextuplets are getting the trading figure treatment courtesy of Orange Rouge. They'll be available in stores this July, each costing 556 Yen plus tax. There are six brothers to collect; Osomatsu-san, Karamatsu-san, Choromatsu-san, Ichimatsu-san, Jyushimatsu-san, and Todomatsu-san! Think you can complete the F6?

Osomatsu-san Trading Figure

TTFN!!!

Forza Motorsport 6: Breaking Aztek

One of the strangest cars appeared in the Forza Motorsport 6's Alpinestars Car Pack is none other than the world's least lovable car on the road, the Pontiac Aztek, the crossover, despite its infamous styling, became a cult classic since it became Heisenberg's personal transport in the Breaking Bad TV series. So, what's it all about?



Launched as a 2001 model year, the Aztek is Pontiac's first ever crossover utility vehicle that shares its underpinnings with the Buick Rendezvous, although the platform these crossovers used is a shortened version used in General Motors' minivans. Rather than using sliding doors, the Aztek's design features conventional rear swing-open kammback and a bi-parting rear tailgate. It was penned by Tom Peters and reports state that the Aztek is suppose to be a sign of General Motors' rebirth, only to find out that it became a commercial flop until the Aztek's discontinuation and it became the car of choice for Breaking Bad's Walt "Heisenberg" White.

The Aztek is powered by a 3.4L LA1 V6 engine which produces 185HP of power and 210lb-ft of torque, while mated with a 4-speed 4T65-E automatic gearbox. It is available in either front-wheel or four-wheel drive with independent rear suspension.

The Aztek was produced in Mexico from 2001 to 2005 and it was replaced by the Chevrolet Equinox-based Pontiac Torrent. When it was launched, it became the official pace car for the 2001 Daytona 500. Although intended to be sold for the younger democratic, some criticized the Aztek as one of the car that could save General Motors as well as one of the worst-designed cars in history.

The Pontiac Aztek appeared in the "America's Worst Cars" episode of Top Gear USA as Rutledge Wood's car of choice as the presenters try to make it look cool and sell it to the highest bidder.



I have no idea why the game's producers decided to put this crossover here and any purpose about how this car does in FM6 remains a mystery for now. We already had the weirdest cars in-game such as Fast Five's Gurkha and the Cadillac XTS Limousine, and with the addition of the Pontiac Aztek, it's really difficult to find a purpose on driving this car in-game unless if you got endless imagination to do so. Apart from its styling, I find driving the Aztek to be somewhat terrible. Of course, it may have a V6 engine, which is fairly nice, but it's less powerful, meaning it doesn't got the oomph to go further. Because it's mated only with a 4-speed automatic gearbox, you won't find much excitement either.

Handling wise, the Aztek feels heavy and I find this car doesn't find much purpose on track at all. It's just plain terrible and a quick demonstration comes into driving this car round Long Beach, California. Hey, at least this is a city track so it would work...



While most underpowered cars can get round this track around the two minute mark, the Aztek did poorly with a lap time of a disappointing 2:13.083 and I thought this Aztek finds its purpose on a city center like this.

It's a shame why we had one of the most terrible cars like the Pontiac Aztek in Forza Motorsport 6 but with a little know-it-all, a little appreciation goes a long way. Who knows, this car might have some potential underneath its bizarre bodywork or having the ghost of Heisenberg do its work for you.

The Cute Wall (Volume Eleven)

Now, the moment of truth is time because it's now time to do...THE CUTE WALL!



Yes, we're back and looks like I'm feeling something special for this.

You're right and since we're nearing to celebrate Pokemon's 20th anniversary and I can't believe 20 is considered to be the lucky number for 2016 because of....well, think about it; this, Biohazard, Sakura Wars, do you know any stuff celebrating its 20th year this 2016?

(audience murmuring)

Well, whatever, but hey! You once made a list about the cutest Pokemon, although there are some of the cutest Pokemon didn't listed in this Cute Wall. Let's have a look...

Clefairy, Jigglypuff, Chansey, Eevee, Togepi, and Scraggy. The ones I listed on the list of the cutest Pokemon but haven't listed here. Best to leave the verdict to you.

Verdict? But you listed it. Why don't you do it?

Oh, all right. I'll put Clefairy, Jigglypuff, Chansey, and Eevee on the CUTE spot. Scraggy...um...better put it on NOT CUTE.

(audience laughing)

As for Togepi, you'll be sitting with Pikachu today because you get the top spot! NAKAKAGIGIL!

(audience laughing)

Speaking of which, I once watched the XY&Z anime series and care to guess what that is?


Squishy

Wait, I know! Isn't that what they called the Zygarde Core?

Exactly. And would you like to know the core Bonnie called when they first met?

Squishy?

You're exactly right! It is Squishy. I don't know why she called it Squishy but that's a good name, I'll give you that. So, what do you think about Squishy?

Well, to be honest. I'm starting to adore that Squishy. Believe it or not, it looks cute when its asleep.

(audience laughing)

Cute when Squishy's asleep? Better be advised that if your new friend turned into the many forms of...well, the three forms of Zygarde, it will be scary as,...ahem.

Oh yes....

So, verdict?

Well, since I'm starting to like that Squishy, I made a sweet spot so Pikachu can enjoy it. Welcome to the NAKAKAGIGIL club, Squishy!

(audience laughing, and applause)

Any other Pokemon to be considered...cute?

Hmmm....how about this? Tepig?

I think Tepig is already proven to be cute when the Black and White years began. Put him in CUTE.

All right. How about Snivy?

CUTE as well.

(audience laughing)

Hmmm...What about Chikorita?

Chikorita's a cute Pokemon and I already know where to put it. CUTE.

Okay, CUTE it is for Chikorita.

(audience laughing)

Do you know any starters we didn't put here?

Well, I have a Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle. Sadly, only one of these first starters is considered cute and that's Charmander so I'll put Charmander in the CUTE spot while Bulbasaur and Squirtle will be placed at NOT CUTE because I don't find them to be cute.

(audience laughing)

I also don't find Cyndaquil to be cute so NOT CUTE for this one. However, I do find that Totodile, one of the Johto starters, to be somewhat cute so I'll just put it in the CUTE spot for keeps.

What about the Hoenn starters?!

Treecko's not cute. No wait! Treecko's SERIOUSLY NOT CUTE. But Torchic and Mudkip are so they deserved a spot in the CUTE zone.

(audience laughing)

Well, we already put Piplup in the Cute Wall a long time ago. What about the others? Turtwig and Chimchar?

Sorry to say, I don't find either of these two cute so it's a NOT CUTE for both Turtwig and Chimchar.

(audience laughing)

Oh wait. It's a CUTE for Chimchar. I must apologize.

(audience laughing)

Oh, here we go with that beauty pageant mistake dialogue again. Hmmm...Everyone, what's your say about Meowth?

Who?

(audience laughing)

Meowth. Everyone's favorite talking feline villain who is the third member of Team Rocket. Although I find Meowth to be the bad guy, it also one of my favorite bad guys in the history of animation because it's always a cat and mouse chase between Ash and Pikachu and Team Rocket so if it's okay if I...

(chainsaw whirring)

(audience laughing, then applause)

Do not...

(Applause continues)

Do not put villains in the Cute Wall. Now, look what just happened.

What did I do?

Run. Run or you'll be a lot shorter.

(audience laughing)

IT'S TIME FOR THE RECAP!

SERIOUSLY NOT CUTE:
Raichu
Whisper
Minion
Nico Yazawa
Takane Shijou
Azusa Miura
Makoto Kikuchi
Anzu Futaba
Croagunk
Touma Amagase
Shota Mitarai
Hokuto Ijuin
Teru Tendo
Kaoru Sakuraba
Tsubasa Kashikawa
Kyouji Takajou
Minori Watanabe
Kyosuke Aoi
Yusuke Aoi
Shiki Iseya
Haruna Wakazato
Hayato Akiyama
Jun Fuyumi
Natsuki Sakaki
Rui Maita
Chio Hazama
Jiro Yamashita
*Treecko

NOT CUTE:
Dopey
Kwazii
Minion
Amethyst
Rin Hoshizora
Hibiki Ganaha
Minami Nitta
Ranko Kanzaki
Miku Maekawa
Kion
Fuli
Beshte
Bunga
Ono
Pierre
*Scraggy
*Bulbasaur
*Squirtle
*Cyndaquil
*Turtwig

CUTE:
Pichu
Plusle
Minun
Pachirisu
Emolga
Dedenne
Mokona
Mog
Catbug
Bashful
Froakie
Fennekin
Harukasan
Stuffy
Tunip the Vegimal
Minccino
Piplup
Sylveon
Queen Delightful
Axew
Jibanyan
Minion
Serena's Pancham
Umi Sonoda
Eli Ayase
Hanayo Koizumi
Maki Nishikino
Nozomi Tojo
Miki Hoshii
Yukiho Hagiwara
Iori Minase
Ritsuko Akizuki
Anastasia
Kanako Mimura
Chieri Ogata
Miria Akagi
Rika Jougasaki
Kirari Moroboshi
Riina Tada
Rin Shibuya
Mio Honda
Komasan
Komajiro
Grizz
Panda
Ice Bear
*Clefairy
*Jigglypuff
*Chansey
*Eevee
*Tepig
*Snivy
*Chikorita
*Charmander
*Totodile
*Torchic
*Mudkip
*Chimchar

NAKAKAGIGIL!!!:
Pikachu
BMO
Bijou
Poof
George
Happy
Chespin
Doc McStuffins
Mabel Pines
Sofia
Cottonee
Minion
Oshawott
Star Butterfly
Honoka Kousaka
Kotori Minami
Haruka Amami
Yayoi Takatsuki
Chihaya Kisaragi
Ami Futami
Mami Futami
Uzuki Shimamura
Noibat
*Togepi
*Squishy

Monday, February 22, 2016

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: North Korea wanted peace talks before missile


According to a US official, they've received a North Korean proposal for peace talks to formally end the Korean War before Pyongyang's recent nuclear test on January 6th, but the two sides failed to start the negotiations and the North went with its test. The official said that after considering the North's proposal, the Obama administration asked the North to include denuclearization as part of the talks but NoKor rejected the call.

The North Korea repeatedly asked the USA to end its hostile policy and conclude a peace treaty with the North while the United States maintained that they will not start any dialogues until the North takes serious steps to curtail its nuclear programs

Source: NHK World

Let's Do The News! (February 22, 2016)


- This week marks the 30th anniversary of the 1986 People Power Revolution and the celebration is as important as other national holidays in the Philippines to remember the most critical events and the people who helped the nation achieve freedom.

- All of the five presidentiables appeared in the first series of debates organized by COMELEC in Cagayan de Oro City yesterday. The five candidates; Vice President Jejomar Binay, Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago, Davao mayor Rodrigo Duterte, Senator Grace Poe, and Mar Roxas, expounded on their platforms of government if elected president on May 9.

- The Saudi Arabian embassy in Manila warned the Department of Foreign Affairs that the Saudi government received from concerned authorities that the Iranian Revolutionary Guards are allegedly initiating and supervising a plan to hijack or bomb a Saudi Arabian airplane, knowing that the threat of terrorist attack on Saudi Arabian airliners is real, eminent, and allegedly in the final stage of implementation.

- Five years have passed since the Christchurch quake in New Zealand that killed 185 people. People have gathered for memorial services at 1251 hours local time, the exact time the quake struck. Reconstruction efforts have made little progress in most areas except for the central part of the city.

- Meanwhile, At the Republican state of South Carolina, Donald Trump wows the crowd at the South Carolina Republican Primary while in the Democrat state of Nevada, Hillary Clinton trounced Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders at the Nevada caucuses.

- An estate version of the Renault Megane IV has been unveiled in time before next month's Geneva Motor Show.

2017 Renault Megane Estate

- The first ever Maserati Levante SUV is officially unveiled ahead of its Geneva Motor Show premiere.

2017 Maserati Levante

- The newest Aikatsu series, titled Aikatsu Stars!, is set to air this April 7 on TV Tokyo with a movie inspired from the new series hits theaters on the 23rd of August.

Aikatsu Stars!

- Disney unveiled a teaser trailer for the upcoming fantasy movie, Pete's Dragon, starring Bryce Dallas Howard, Robert Redford, and Oakes Fegley. It will hit theaters this August 2016. CLICK HERE.

TTFN!!!