Let's Do The News! (January 31, 2024)

                                                                  

Your daily round-up of today's news...

- The Philippine National Police assures that there will be no destabilization plot against the PBBM administration.

- Philippine President Bongbong Marcos admits that the people's initiative to amend the 1987 Constitution has been politicized. The president said he has been in continuous discussions with both chambers of Congress amid their ongoing clash over the PI.

- Farmers in Western Visayas and Zamboanga Peninsula lost at least P109.44 million due to the effects of the El Niño climate phenomenon, according to the PH Department of Agriculture.

- According to reports, police officers made "sickening" comments about an assault victim while watching a body-worn video showing her groin. The woman's body was exposed when she was filmed suffering from a seizure. Three Thames Valley Police PCs later watched the footage without reason.

- Satellite images of Israel's bombardment show more than half of Gaza's buildings were damaged while the entire neighborhood is in ruins. Meanwhile, the Israeli military confirms that it's been pumping seawater into tunnels in Gaza to flood Hamas's underground hideouts.

- Elon Musk's 2018 US$56b compensation plan for Tesla was voided by the Delaware court, according to reports.

- The Japanese transport ministry raids Toyota plants following the disclosure of testing irregularities. 

- BMW unveiled the 4-Series range's LCI as well as the 6-speed manual variant for the Z4 M40i.

2025 BMW 4-Series Coupe

2025 BMW M4 Competition Coupe

2025 BMW Z4

- Lotus will unveil its EV sports car in 2025.

- The Audi Q7 range received its second minor change for the 2025 model year.

2025 Audi Q7

- Dacia confirms its entry to the 2025 Dakar Rally with its Sandrider Concept.

Dacia Sandrider Cocnept

- The 4th My Hero Academia movie will hit theaters this August 2.

- The remastered version of the Fate/stay night video game will arrive on the Nintendo Switch and PC this 2024.

- Actress Lee Young Ae will reprise her Dae Jang Geum role in the upcoming sequel to the 2003 drama series Jewel in the Palace. Filming for the K-drama's sequel starts this October.

- Winnie leaves NINE.i due to injury.

- Four NHL players were charged with sexual assault in London, Ontario, according to their respective legal teams. Lawyers for Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Carter Hart, Calgary Flames forward Dillon Dube, and New Jersey Devils center Michael McLeod and defenseman Cal Foote, all members of Canada's 2018 World Junior Championships team, addressed the situation.

- The University of Tennessee Volunteers team is under NCAA investigation for violations related to name, image, and likeness, according to reports. The investigation puts them in the crosshairs for potential sanctions as repeat violators.

- The movie Rewind became the first Filipino movie to reach the 900-million-pesos box record.

TTFN.

Mercedes-AMG GT C192

With the arrival of the all-new, second-generation Mercedes-AMG GT, the Mercedes-AMG family is now officially an all-AWD lineup, which is a shame for trigger-happy purists who enjoyed its glorious tire-burning past. Transition aside, let's get to know more about the all-new, all-wheel-drive, second-generation model.

2024 Mercedes-AMG GT

Starting at 188,704 Euros plus additional costs, the all-new, all-wheel-drive, second-generation Mercedes-AMG GT is the latest chapter of the AMG-original sports car that promises to be as good as the previous model but with the added AWD capability to throw punches everywhere.

2024 Mercedes-AMG GT interior

Beginning with the design, the new model stays true to its predecessor's roots by retaining the familiar silhouette that is easy to distinguish while the front view dons the signature AMG grille from its predecessor's AMG GT3 racing machine, and the rear taillights are inspired by the EQ range.

The new interior packs a similar layout to its open-top equivalent, the Mercedes-AMG SL, meaning it's got that Tesla-esque touchscreen that handles the infotainment and climate control as well as track data while in the middle of track days.

For the first time in an AMG GT, it can be configured to have two additional seats, although it's too tight to get through, meaning the only purpose for these two extra seats in the back is either a child seat or your pet. Of course, it can be folded down to accommodate some stuff at the back such as your suitcases or golf bags but who cares about it. This new model is starting to feel like a grand tourer rather than a modern sports car.

2024 Mercedes-AMG GT

At launch, the second-generation Mercedes-AMG GT is offered only in GT63 configuration armed with a 9-speed MCT and 4MATIC+ with fully variable torque distribution allowing it to behave in either a four-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive, depending on road conditions. With a power output of 585PS and 800Nm of torque, the GT63 is capable of hitting 0-100kph in 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 315kph, about 2kph slower than the previous model's R. Touche.

Taking advantage of AMG's motorsport know-how, the all-new AMG GT features an eclectic mix of aluminum, steel, magnesium, and fiber composites for maximum rigidity, top performance, and weight savings. Thanks to its GT3-inspired grille and active aerodynamics, it's got better downforce and drag compared to its predecessor, making it easy to breathe in before its blow-by-blow close combat.

With its improved dynamics and the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with active roll stabilization, this sports car is fully prepared for almost everything, come tarmac, gravel, or snow. Ain't no Bentley but this is how this new model rolls, metaphorically speaking.

As expected, the all-new Mercedes-AMG GT is stuck with the most advanced driving assistance systems and while such things work in normal driving conditions, they can be worth intimidating for speedo boys behind the wheel.

Although the switch to AWD is controversial, and the optional two extra seats at the back cramps its character, this is the AMG GT the whole multiverse should be pouring in its glass of water right now. With its improved looks and performance, this is the true show of force the AMG way and this one's too impossible to be ignored. Any takers?

Photo: Mercedes-Benz AG

My FH5 Log: Darker Than Black

The AMG Black Series lineage is known for pushing beyond the limits with its race-bred performance and dynamics only the privileged can enjoy.

So, what makes the AMG Black Series, pun intended, darker than black? I got three AMG Black Series vehicles in Forza Horizon 5 to make statements.

Let's begin with the SL65 AMG Black Series. Using the R230 SL65 AMG as its basis, the Black Series is an upgraded version of the said model which comes with an improved version of a 6.0L V12 twin-turbo engine mated with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS five-speed automatic transmission. With the engine developing 661HP of power, it is the most powerful V12-powered AMG vehicle ever. 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds and top speed limited to 199mph. Aside from its raw power, the Black Series is 250kg lighter than the regular SL65 because of the use of light carbon fiber composite (CFRP) parts and replacing the foldable hardtop roof with a fixed roof.

Next is the C63 AMG Black Series, a beefed-up version of the C63 AMG Coupe. It is armed with an improved AMG 6.2L V8 engine producing 517PS of power and 620Nm of torque. Apart from the performance, it also comes with 255/35 R 19 and 285/30 R 19 wheels, black diffuser insert from SLS AMG GT3, chromed twin tailpipes, AMG sports suspension with AMG rear axle differential lock, 3-stage ESP, and others. Mercedes-Benz limits production of the C63 AMG Black up to 650 units but with high demand, it was extended to 800 units, and all of them bought one of these.

Lastly is the most powerful AMG Black Series vehicle ever made; the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series. It features aerodynamics inspired by the Mercedes-AMG GT3 racing machine, making it a road-legal track toy in its own right. Apart from the race-inspired aerodynamics, the 4.0L V8 BiTurbo engine has been tuned to produce 730PS of power output, making it the most powerful ICE-powered AMG model ever built. 

Mated to a 7G-DCT, it has a top speed of 325kph. It lapped the Nurburgring Nordschleife in 6:48.047, which is faster than the Lamborghini Aventador SVJ, although beaten by a modified Porsche 911 991.2 GT2 RS, which was later beaten by the FH5 hero car, the Mercedes-AMG ONE.

With all three gathered around Copper Canyon, it's time to find out which of the AMG Black Series lineage is the best, and as always...

...fastest time wins. This comparison will demonstrate how much progress AMG has made with the Black Series lineage from the V12-powered SL65 AMG Black Series to the road-legal track car that is the AMG GT Black Series. Let's roll the tape.

And now the results...

SL65 Black Series - 1m07.134s

C63 Black Series - 1m06.917s

AMG GT Black Series - 59.743s

As expected, the AMG GT Black Series not only is the most powerful Black Series vehicle ever made but also the quickest because of its Nurburgring credentials. Exceptional for a road-legal GT3 car. It really is.

Because of the AMG GT Black Series' exceptional performance against the other two Black Series vehicles, it's time to reward this car with something gorgeous. So gorgeous, it makes me want to say "forget my husband, I'll go make money".

Finally, the AMG GT Black Series shows its true colors. Oh, Shuka-sama. You never fail to impress me. Shuka who? Shuka effing Hanazono! That's her! Sorry about that but hey, her look and feel suits its personality. It's got the impression of a seductive villainess from a steamy webtoon. Wait, what?

Steamy aside, our Shuka-sama prepares to unleash some unreasonable force against street racing veterans in reserve around what seems to be a re-enactment of Tokyo's Daikoku parking area. 

Interested in this EventLab creation by someone named Mojo5290? Here's the share code: 117 535 418

Anyway, let's get this sideshow on the road.

This reminds me that I would make a webtoon out of this experience; Lady Shuka used unreasonable force with her AMG GT Black Series. That would make a great title for my potential webtoon masterpiece.

Having respect with the AMG GT Black Series, it's sad to see that the entire AMG lineup is AWD only, making this the last rear-wheel-drive AMG vehicle ever made. Of course, BMW's M division got rear-wheel-drive vehicles like the M2, the M3, and the M4, but they've ended up like they're the only ones in the yard. So sad.

Still, no regrets. I'm glad I got to experience the last rear-wheel-drive AMG vehicle ever made. Even Lady Shuka's impressed with it.

Auf Wiedersehein, rear-wheel-drive AMG cars like the AMG GT Black Series. You made us proud.

Let's Do The News! (January 30, 2024)

                                                                 

Your daily round-up of today's news...

- Senator Robin Padilla said that tomorrow's closure of CNN Philippines is "a great loss" to public information.

- During PH President Bongbong Marcos' state visit to Vietnam, the two sides have inked a five-year rice trade agreement while forging a pact to prevent incidents at the South China Sea. The PH President vents ire over China's provocations at sea during his meeting with Vietnam officials.

- The SMNI asked the PH Supreme Court to stop the National Telecommunications Commission from enforcing the indefinite suspension of its operation. Last December 21st, the NTC had issued a 30-day suspension of SMNI's operations.

- The United States vows a "consequential" response to the killing of three soldiers by an Iran-back militant group. Washington says it's not seeking war with Iran or a wider conflict in the Middle East, but the Biden administration is under political pressure to react forcefully.

- The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court says both sides in Sudan's civil war appear to be committing war crimes in the Darfur region.

- Tun Daim Zainuddin was charged with the failure to declare 71 of his assets to the MACC, according to reports. The former finance minister failed to comply with a MACC notice to declare his assets such as one bank account, seven luxury vehicles, 38 companies, and 25 properties at the MACC HQ in Putrajaya last year.

- HSBC fined over 57 million pounds for serious failings in protecting customer deposits over several years.

- Nearly 500K vehicles have been recalled in Japan over faulty Denso fuel pumps, bringing the total to 4.3 million vehicles. 

- Toyota halts shipment of 10 diesel-powered vehicles worldwide as reports revealed that its output tests used non-standard ECUs. Models affected are the Granace, Hilux, and Land Cruiser Prado 150.

- The SUN Minimeal Racing joins the Extreme E team roster for the 2024 season with Timo Scheider and Klara Andersson representing the new team.

- The newest Dragon Ball TV series, Dragon Ball DAIMA, will air this Autumn 2024.

- THE BOYZ member Sunwoo was named the new DJ of MBC's Idol Radio season 4.

- The agency of actor Lee Byung-hun released a brief statement regarding a break-in to his Los Angeles home.

- Basketball player Rajon Rondo was arrested over the weekend for unlawful possession of a firearm, drug paraphernalia, and marijuana, all misdemeanor charges, according to reports. Rondo was pulled over in Indiana's Jackson County on Sunday afternoon because of a traffic violation when a trooper smelled marijuana, sources say.

TTFN.

THREATS FROM NORTH KOREA: North Korea tests submarine-launched cruise missiles, KCNA says

 

North Korea tested its new strategic cruise missiles for the second time in a week on Sunday, calling it a newly developed submarine-launched cruise missile (SLCM), accelerating its navy’s nuclear armament, state news agency KCNA reported on Monday.

Leader Kim Jong Un supervised the test of the missile, called “Pulhwasal-3-31,” which is identical to the strategic cruise missiles that the North said last week were under development.

KCNA said the missiles flew above the sea off the country’s east coast for 7,421 seconds and 7,445 seconds and hit an unspecified island target, indicating the flight time exceeded two hours.

Kim called the test a success, KCNA said, “which is of strategic significance in carrying out the plan…for modernizing the army which aims at building a powerful naval force.”

South Korea’s military said on Sunday that the North fired multiple cruise missiles off its coast but did not provide details.

North Korea’s ballistic missiles are typically more controversial and are explicitly banned under U.N. Security Council resolutions. But analysts have said intermediate-range cruise missiles were no less a threat than ballistic missiles and are a serious capability for North Korea.

In recent months, the North has tested an array of weapons that include ballistic missile systems that are under development and an underwater drone.

Kim separately inspected the construction of a nuclear submarine and discussed issues related to the manufacturing of other types of new warships, KCNA said.

Source: Reuters

Let's Do The News! (January 29, 2024)

                                                                

Your daily round-up of today's news...

- PH President Bongbong Marcos alleged that his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte is taking fentanyl. According to Marcos, Duterte has been taking the painkiller for five to six years. Marcos said that it was bound to have some sort of effect on Duterte.

- PH Vice President Sara Duterte called her brother Davao Mayor Baste Duterte's demands to make President Bongbong Marcos resign a "brotherly love". In a prayer rally in Davao, Mayor Duterte asked Marcos to resign if he couldn’t show love and aspiration for the Philippines.

- COMELEC said it will halt all proceedings related to the signature drive for amending the 1987 Constitution via people’s initiative.

- CNN Philippines will be officially shut down at the end of January after nine years of broadcast.

- The Philippines and the United States intend to hold a “2-plus-2 meeting” of top diplomatic and defense officials in Manila in March, the Philippine ambassador to Washington said.

- Willie Revillame declares he’s ‘ready’ to run for senator in 2025.

- Three US troops were killed on the Jordan-Syria border. US President Joe Biden blamed the attack on the radical Iran-backed militant groups.

- The military rulers of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger announce their withdrawal from the West African bloc, ECOWAS.

- The Volkswagen Golf R Mk8.5 was previewed.

- Polestar will lay off 15% of its global workforce as it missed its 2023 target sales.

- The Chibi Maruko-chan anime series re-casts Emi Motoi for the role of Yamada.

- Celebs Kim Ki Lee and Moon Ji In are now officially married.

- Go_U has officially left BLITZERS due to health reasons.

TTFN.

My FH5 Log: CODENAME R

The Volkswagen Golf R is the range-topper of the Golf range that possesses the most potent performance of any Golf in history.

This is the Mk7.5 Golf R, or should I say, the wrong Golf R I got during the early months of Forza Horizon 5. There is already an Mk8 Golf R out in the open but the producers stuck with the Mk7.5 Golf R because they've completely forgotten the memo.

After several whinings later, I got what I demanded on Forza Horizon 5; a Mk8 Golf R. The one with the new Volkswagen and R logos on it. It's part of the Super Speed Car Pack.

Served as the flagship variant of the eighth-generation Golf, the Golf R pushes the limits of Volkswagen's popular midsize hatchback to greater heights.

While featuring various ways and means to make it even more enjoyable to drive on the road and track such as the standard variable-ratio steering, retuned suspension, the Vehicle Dynamics Manager, ESC, traction control, and improved braking system, among many others, the Golf R is powered by the 2.0L petrol engine which produces 20 more than the previous model, delivering 320PS of power and 420Nm of torque.

The Performance version adds 13PS of power and while mated to a 7-speed DSG and 4MOTION, it does 0-100kph in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 270kph.

North American-spec Golf R models have a 6-speed manual standard with the DSG as an available option.

The Mk8 Golf R featured in FH5 is the US-spec version with the 6-speed manual gearbox, the one Europeans didn't get. Although it feels wrong for me to have a Mk8 Golf R with a gearbox not offered in its native homeland, I'm super happy to sample what's known to be the ultimate Golf R ever made. While not bothering about its controversial interior, the performance and dynamics are all mild and menacing for a super hot hatch. It feels nearly easy to drive...all the time, and it demands more as the opportunity arises.

To see how much improvement the Mk8 Golf R has gained, I've challenged it against the Mk7.5 Golf R, the expired good I've never asked to have, and taken them for a one-lap time attack.

For a quick recap, the Mk8 Golf R's 2.0L petrol engine produces 20 more than the previous model, delivering 320PS of power and 420Nm of torque. The main question is, does more power mean faster than the old model? Let's find out.

And now the results...

Golf Mk7.5 R - 59.743s

Golf Mk8 R - 58.876s

It's a close shave! The new Golf Mk8 R is nearly a second faster than the Mk7.5 Golf R! I'd say it's more of a scratch than a slash.

The Volkswagen Golf R is the range-topper of the Golf range that possesses the most potent performance of any Golf in history and the Mk8 Golf R pushes the limits of Volkswagen's popular midsize hatchback to greater heights. It really is the ultimate Golf R ever made but only just.

At this point, I was going to end this log but like a good K-drama, there's a bonus section at the end of the episode, and with that...

Looks like Miss Ruli came out to play. Ah, idol girls, you can't resist their temptation.

With the jewel vibes on, Codename R...R as in Ruli...is off against a pack of legendary drivers gathering around a city centre on a racetrack crafted by one of Forza's number one fans. Let's roll, Miss Ruli, as most would like to call you.

Incredible. Nobody can catch her.

It's sad to say that the Mk8 Golf will be the last Golf to have ICE on it and this R is a clear reminder that it has reached its peak. Whatever the reason, It's an honor to meet what's known to be the ultimate Golf R. Although not ultimate, that will do.

Mission accomplished, Codename R.