- A second criminal complaint filed against former president Benigno Aquino III and former Health secretary Janette Garin in connection with the P3.5-billion dengue mass vaccination program which they started implementing in April 2016. More than 70 mothers were named as complainants representing their children who received shots of the anti-dengue vaccine with brand name Dengvaxia, manufactured by Sanofi Pasteur.
- Arvin Balag of the Aegis Juris Fraternity was released from Senate detention but his criminal charges remains pending for resolution before the Department of Justice. On Thursday night, Balag was released from detention following the Supreme Court en banc's order.
The Malacanang said that an investigation is already underway into the sinking of an interisland ferry in waters off Quezon Province which killed at least five people as search operations continue.
- The United Nations General Assembly voted against US President Donald Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. 128 countries voted for the resolution, 9 against it, and 35 nations abstained. The vote came after US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley issued a direct threat, saying that the US will think twice about funding the world body if it voted to condemn Trump's decision.
- Apple is sued for deliberately slowing down customers' old iPhones. The tech giant admitted on Wednesday that it has implemented power management features in older iPhones, to prolong the life of the devices and improve overall performance.
- Thailand bans large displacement motorbikes from riding through wildlife parks.
- Infiniti teases a concept sedan ahead of next month's NAIAS.
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- Jeep unveiled the 2019 minor change for their Cherokee crossover ahead of next month's NAIAS premiere, featuring a new front face and the new 2.0L turbo engine with mild hybrid system as seen in the new Wrangler.
- Acura teases the RDX Prototype ahead of next month's NAIAS.
The latest episode of this season of Amazon Prime's car program, The Grand Tour, features cars that make viewers drool in jealousy, saying that they really wish they want to drive either of these cars as seen in the show right now.
The Grand Tour S2E03
First off, James May is at Majorca, driving Kia's high-performance premium sports saloon, the Stinger, and then finds out if the car can go faster uphill than skateboarders going downhill, and he did.
Later on, May and Hammond are trying to make lunch break more interesting by turning a certain business park in Dunstable into a racetrack and summoned different office workers during lunch breaks to see which one is the clear winner.
In Celebrity Face Off, survivalist Casey Anderson and Paddington star Hugh Bonneville are on a duel to see who is the fastest celebrity who lives with a bear. Of course, this segment featured a preview clip in the upcoming Paddington 2 film. Anyway, in the lap time part, Hugh did it in 1:22.2 while Casey did it in 1:18.6.
Wrapping up in this episode, Jeremy Clarkson goes on an road trip with Bugatti's latest masterpiece, the Chiron, to a restaurant in Turin, and a return of someone familiar to you since Namibia last year.
In celebration of the release of the PlayStation4-exclusive THE IDOLM@STER Stella Stage video game, here comes the start of the brand new STELLA MASTER CD range, inspired from the Stella Stage video game, and it begins with a prologue installment featuring two songs as heard in the game.
THE IDOLM@STER STELLA MASTER 00 ToP!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is the prologue installment of the inaugural STELLA MASTER CD range and in this installment, the 765 PRO ALLSTARS are performing the theme song of THE IDOLM@STER Stella Stage game, titled ToP!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hence too many exclamation points are put in the title of this song, I hope you IDOLM@STER fans enjoy the full version of the Stella Stage theme song and to balance it out, the second song on this album was performed by, wait for it, the newest threat from 961 PRO, Shiika. It's titled Blooming Star and listening to the full version is like getting to know the enemy first before going head on.
Enjoy two new songs as heard in the Stella Stage game and brace yourselves for more in this range over the coming months with the first one featuring the song as heard from the game's first DLC Catalog so watch for it.
Rev up those stereos because here comes the final installment of the MASTER PRIMAL trilogy where this is more than just throwbacks, judging from the covers themselves, and stirring up nostalgia because the idols from 765 PRODUCTION are showing the fans what they're capable of.
THE IDOLM@STER MASTER PRIMAL POPPIN' YELLOW
In this final installment of the MASTER PRIMAL CD trilogy, the star idols on this installment are Miki Hoshii (CV: Akiko Hasegawa), Iori Minase (CV: Rie Kugimiya), Yukiho Hagiwara (CV: Azumi Asakura), and Azusa Miura (CV: Chiaki Takahashi), all performing brand new songs for you to like and finish the MASTER PRIMAL playlist once and for all.
There are three new songs on this album starting with the highlights of this album will perform the song titled 虹のデスティネーション while Miki and Iori are performing 始めのDon't worry and Yukiho and Azusa are singing LEMONADE. After you enjoyed listening to these new songs offered on this album, there's a drama part featuring Miki, Iori, Yukiho, and Azusa themselves, on their brand new adventure that will complete your MASTER PRIMAL experience.
Now that the MASTER PRIMAL trilogy's complete, feel free to listen all of the songs from this trilogy from ROCKIN' RED, DANCIN' BLUE, and POPPIN' YELLOW. So, which song from the MASTER PRIMAL trilogy you like the most? Which album? Which drama part? You decide...
Aired on SBS in South Korea and then globally via Amazon Prime from April to October, THE IDOLM@STER.KR is the K-Drama adaptation to one of Bandai Namco's successful game franchises in history and it centers on the girls who would be known as the Real Girls Project and under the hands of a producer with a darkened past, the life and times of 325 ENTERTAINMENT pre-debut rookies are not all about going for the road to stardom because of the bitter rivalry between different sides to show the rest of the world who deserves to debut.
THE IDOLM@STER.KR OST One For All
Yes, the show is already over a few months ago but there are still those who just can't get enough of the REAL GIRLS PROJECT post-show and because of such fanbase over the TV drama that gave birth to a new girl group that made their mark on the history of THE IDOLM@STER franchise, here comes THE IDOLM@STER.KR OST One For All, which is a collection of songs as heard on the TV series as well as some extras.
This two-disc compilation features all the tracks from the mini-albums from the show's theme song, 꿈을 DREAM, Korean versions of THE IDOLM@STER and THE WORLD IS ALL ONE!!, Red Queen's ACACIA, and more, including a brand new song performed by Joungjoo. Apart from the two discs offered, this set includes a 48-page booklet featuring everything you need to know about the show, the girls, and the songs, two photo cards featuring the RGP, and a photo post card.
It really is a parting gift from the REAL GIRLS PROJECT as a big thank you for supporting THE IDOLM@STER.KR from start to finish and here's hoping for more of the Real Girls Project.
TRACK LISTINGS:
Disc One:
01꿈을 DREAM
02SUPER GIRL MAGIC
03메모리즈
04ACACIA
05ONE FOR ALL
06으르렁
07두 번째 고백
08THE IDOLM@STER
Disc Two:
01LOST IN THE SUMMER
02WANNA BE YOUR STAR
03ATTENTION
04LET'S GET STARTED
05I MUST GO!
06THE WORLD IS ALL ONE!!
07NOT END…BUT AND!!
08너 때문에
South Korea's Joint Chief of Staff said that one North Korean soldier has made his way to South Korea this morning across the western border of the two Koreas. At 1000 hours local time, a "low-ranking" soldier appeared in front of a guard post this morning.
They say there were no gunshots, and this is the first such incident since another North Korean soldier had cross the highly guarded border of Joint Security Area last month, after receiving multiple gunshots.
Related authorities are looking into his intentions.
- As the Philippines reels from the aftermath of Urduja, another storm's coming up as Vinta has intensified into a tropical storm, according to PAGASA. In its 5 a.m. bulletin, the state weather bureau said Vinta is expected to hit land over the Caraga-Davao region between Thursday evening and Friday morning.
- The University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital will conduct independent review on the probable cause of deaths allegedly linked to the Dengvaxia vaccine, according to Health Secretary Francisco Duque III.
- Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno said that the Philippines' announcement to withdraw the application for a second grand from the Millennium Challenge Corporation was for policy independence as Diokno said that the president wants to implement projects without "external intervention."
- According to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, today's conflicts average more than 20 years and often involve multiple armed groups competing for control of government institutions, natural resources and territory.
- Venezuela's pro-government constitutional assembly effectively stripped three of the country's most influential opposition parties of the right to participate in next year's presidential election. The ban follows up on a threat by socialist President Nicolas Maduro to punish three of the biggest opposition groups and drew swift condemnation within Venezuela and abroad.
- Subaru has admitted investigating possible tampering of mileage readings of cars sold in the Japanese market, according to reports. About two months ago, Subaru revealed that “uncertified staff” had been making final checks on cars that were sold in its domestic market, a clear violation of regulations in Japan.
- BMW teases the X7 flagship SUV ahead of late 2018 launch.
- The close friends, relatives, and fans of the late SHINee member Jonghyun bid their farewell to him today at his funeral procession. Last Monday, Jonghyun died at his residence, with police reports ruled his death as suicide.
- The Love Live! Sunshine!! Kimi no Kokorowa Kagayaiterukai? figure lineup wraps up with the addition of Kanan Matsuura in the range. The figure is now available to order starting at 14,800 Yen plus tax and delivery and arrives this June.
Last year, the 765 PRO ALLSTARS ushered in the new age with the Playstation4-exclusive THE IDOLM@STER Platinum Stars featuring new songs, new outfits, and new ways to toy around with the 765 PRO ALLSTARS but sadly Bandai Namco had enough with this game or because you all hated it and rather go toy around with Cinderella Girls or Million Live or Side M or binge-watch the recently concluded THE IDOLM@STER.KR all day long. However, the producers are reluctant to give up and they want to make another PS4-exclusive iM@S game that captures the essence of the classic games and here it is.
THE IDOLM@STER Stella Stage
Right, here it is. This is THE IDOLM@STER Stella Stage and this latest installment to THE IDOLM@STER video games, the girls are back where they belong; the office of 765 PRODUCTIONS. Yep, it's the very talent agency office where the idols call it home as the girls are prepared to take on a brand new challenge as the two bosses of rival talent agencies involving 765PRO's Takagi and 961PRO's Kuroi are setting up a live event called Stella Stage, where only the best idols will shine through the top of stardom. 961 Pro, although some of its powerful talents are gone thanks to the efforts of 765 PRO ALLSTARS in past installments, has unleashed their trump card; their new idol named Shiika (played by Rie Takahashi). With Stella Stage becoming the newest battleground for idols everywhere, how can our 765 PRO idols keep up with this new kind of threat and fight their way through the top of the live audience?
Using the tried and tested tactics as demonstrated on Platinum Stars, Stella Stage allows players to become the producer of 765 Production and be in charge with thirteen of their favorite idols to raise, grow bond, and elevate their way through stardom such as Haruka Amami, Yayoi Takatsuki, Makoto Kikuchi, Chihaya Kisaragi, Ritsuko Akizuki, Azusa Miura, Yukiho Hagiwara, Iori Minase, Ami and Mami Futami, Miki Hoshii, Takane Shijou, and Hibiki Ganaha. Do whatever you want with your favorite idols like you did in past games; fit them with the most potent outfits at your disposal, train them for tougher live stages, take a break with them, you can even come up with different strategies that will put them on the edge of their performance. This is serious matter because there are new ways to further improve your idols so use whatever means necessary to make them as famous as ever.
The costumes are all new in Stella Stage as demonstrated by the star outfit of this game called the "Top! Clover". Yes, the "Top! Clover" costume looks spicy to look at and apart from that, you can enjoy the brand new theme song titled "ToP!!!!!!!!!!!!!". Speaking of which, did you know that some of the DLC from Platinum Stars can be used on Stella Stage?
DLC aside, you can experience Stella Stage to the fullest with the first DLC Catalog featuring the brand new song Vertex Meister and the brand new Cosmo Girls costume with all the other songs and outfits featured in the first DLC catalog in this new game. You can expect six DLC catalogs over the coming months and love it or hate it, they'll be a blast to expand your Stella Stage experience.
LIMITED EDITION: Those who got their hands on the limited edition will be very rewarded because not only the game is featured but also comes with extras such as a pamphlet, a special drama CD, a 765PRO calendar, a 765PRO pin that fits to your neckstrap, which is included, a special box, and for those who preordered it, a special PS4 dynamic theme and a special "Another Clover" costume.
So, love it or loathe it, Stella Stage is an incredible IDOLM@STER game to play all day. No, it's a phenomenal game, absolutely phenomenal. We are delighted to have Bandai Namco back on track with the latest PS4-exclusive IDOLM@STER game but it takes time to get this game notice because they have other things in mind rather than toying with the 765PRO ALLSTARS.
2017 marks the 60th anniversary of the Nissan Skyline and the Japanese car company decided to blow the candle on one of Japan's well-respected cars in history by releasing a new model, well, what I say new, what they mean was they are giving the current V37 Skyline, the one with Infiniti badges on it for no reason, a minor change which features almost none of the bits as seen on the Infiniti Q50.
2018 Nissan Skyline
Once again, the Japanese car company continue to disappoint the Japanese public by not selling stuff that was made in Japan but sold in other countries except Japan and this latest 2018 minor change Nissan Skyline is the latest example of Japan's blatant trend. First off, with the advent of the Infiniti Q60, which is the two-door version of the Q50, which is the international name for the Skyline V37, Nissan refused to sell the two-door version despite the fact that it's made in Japan, another blatant example of Japanese cars that don't want to be Tomicanized since the Toyota Hilux, Honda Civic, Honda CR-V, the Toyota RAV4, and the one that was used to be called the Nissan Dualis. What's next? The one used to be called the Skyline Crossover? The one that is now the all-new Infiniti QX50 with the world's first variable compression turbo? The engine the Japanese too afraid to show it?
Another blasphemy is the engine because in America and Europe, the latest version of the Q50 has the new, fire-breather 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo engine that produces more power than the old 3.7L V6 engine it replaces. Sadly, Nissan also declined the engine as well, which is another act of cowardice for Japanese car makers these days, which involves afraid to sell global automotive stuff in their home market even though they made it there. Anyway, let's not get bogged down on Nissan's latest act of cowardice because while Nissan's too afraid to show what's new worldwide for the Japanese public, let's observe what's new on the 2018 minor change.
Of course, the 2018MY Skyline still bears Infiniti emblems but what's new in the exterior is the bumper design, set of wheels, and new rear lamps. In addition, there is now an Infiniti badge at the back of the car. Something they should have done a very long time ago.
2018 Nissan Skyline interior
On the inside, there are small changes occurred such as the steering wheel, the gear level now donning the Infiniti logo on the top, and the instrumental panel. Despite some subtle changes, it's still surprisingly as posh as its European rivals and the added wood trim adds a nice touch to the Skyline's well-proportioned interior.
Like I mentioned, Nissan declined to offer the firebreathing V6 turbo engine that the Q50 had in the world market and instead, they've retained the choice of a 3.5L V6 Hybrid and a Mercedes-Benz-sourced 2.0L four-cylinder turbo engine. This “Intelligent Dual Clutch Control” Hybrid System has been around since the Fuga and it still works as it promised, balancing performance and efficiency at the same pace. It produces a total output of 364PS of power and for honest reasons, the fuel efficiency based on JC08 mode standards is 17.8km/L.
The Mercedes-Benz-sourced 2.0L Turbo engine for the 200GT-t variant, meanwhile, produces 211PS of power and 350Nm of torque while delivering a fuel efficiency of 13km/L by JC08 mode standards. Most of the variants are mated to a 7-speed AT.
Also, the Skyline still retains the breakthrough Direct Adaptive Steering which breaks away from mechanical components and uses technology to steer with precision, delivering precise handling and quickly communicates road surface feedback to the driver, but it has been recalibrated for better adaptability.
For safety, the 2018MY Skyline now features a wide array of safety features such as Active Lane Control, Intelligent Cruise Control, Distance Control Assist, Backup Collision Intervention, Blind Spot Warning and Intervention, Lane Departure Warning and Prevention, Forward Emergency Braking, and Predictive Forward Collision Warning. Couple these with an array of tech in store and the result is a much safer Skyline that you can really drive with confidence.
The 2018MY Nissan Skyline starts at 4,164,480 to 5,840,640 Japanese Yen, which sounds quite a lot but competitively priced between the European opposition. So, while Nissan set another example of their cowardly acts not to sell the Infiniti Q60 as the Skyline Coupe as well as the 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo engine along with it, the V37 Skyline has been upgraded to make sure it still wants to be accepted by the public even though 2017 is already the year of the Skyline. It maybe a somber way to blow sixty candles but this is just enough to cater this occassion, unless Nissan learns to break the mold and become one with the world market to sell other Skyline versions such as the coupe based on the Infiniti Q60 and the crossover based on the new Infiniti QX50. The more you know.
The Trump administration vowed Tuesday that North Korea would be held accountable for a May cyberattack that affected 150 countries, but it didn't say how, highlighting the difficulty of punishing a pariah nation already sanctioned to the hilt for its nuclear weapons program. The WannaCry ransomware attack infected hundreds of thousands of computers worldwide and crippled parts of Britain's National Health Service. It was the highest-profile cyberattack North Korea has been blamed for since the 2014 hack of Sony Pictures after it produced "The Interview," a satirical movie imagining a CIA plot to kill leader Kim Jong Un. While that destructive attack led to leaks of confidential data from the movie studio and emails that embarrassed Sony talent, the implications of the WannaCry intrusion were altogether more serious. Homeland security adviser Tom Bossert said it was "a reckless attack and it was meant to cause havoc and destruction." He said it put lives at risk in British hospitals. Other experts say the attack was more likely an attempt by Kim's cash-strapped government to extract money. Last year, the same hacking group was suspected in a malware attack that penetrated the Bangladesh Central Bank's computer system, stealing $81 million. Whatever the motivation, the public declaration of blame by Washington reflects growing concern over North Korea's cyber capabilities that appear all the more threatening because of Pyongyang's scant regard for international norms. North Korea is the only country to test nuclear weapons this century and is closing in on a missile that could strike anywhere on U.S. mainland. "President Trump has used just about every lever you can use, short of starving the people of North Korea to death, to change their behavior," Bossert told reporters at the White House. "And so we don't have a lot of room left here to apply pressure to change their behavior." In a sign of continuing malevolent online activity, Microsoft and Facebook said Tuesday that they worked together last week to help disable hackers tied to the same hacking group that was behind WannaCry. Under Trump, the U.S. has piled on economic sanctions against North Korea, both on its own and with wide international support. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said Tuesday that the pressure campaign "will be intensified as time goes by." Experts say North Korea's access to hard cash could be further hurt by more targeting of Chinese intermediary banks and companies, but U.S. options for punishing steps are limited. "Sanctions on North Korea really aren't going to change its behavior," said James Lewis, a technology and intelligence expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, who proposes not just targeting North Korea's revenue sources but also its government's own limited access to the internet. "Sending a carrier battle group off North Korea won't get them to stop hacking." In January 2015, President Barack Obama responded to the Sony attack by imposing sanctions on North Korea's primary intelligence agency and a state corporation involved in ballistic missiles and arms trading, as well as on officials who worked for it. He also warned of further unidentified actions that would take place "at a time and manner of our choosing." If any further action was taken, it was never made public. While experts say North Korea lacks the elite capabilities of Russia or China, it has honed its cyber skills and has been accused of increasingly serious attacks. South Korea, which said in 2015 that North Korea had a 6,000-member cyberarmy, says the North was suspected of hacking a South Korean military data center. Last year, the North was also accused of hacking the personal data of more than 10 million users of an online shopping site and dozens of email accounts used by government officials and journalists. It is also suspected of targeting South Korean banks and the operator of the nation's nuclear power plants. "Their technical abilities are not the best out there, but they are plenty good enough to find a weak point and take advantage of it," said Benjamin Read, manager for cyberespionage analysis at online security provider FireEye. FireEye says that in September it detected and stopped spear phishing emails sent to U.S. electric companies by a group affiliated with the North Korean government, though it did not observe the use of any method designed to compromise power supply. They also believe that North Korean hackers are targeting bitcoin exchanges to supplement the government's income. Bossert said Microsoft and foreign governments, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and Japan, confirmed the U.S. finding of responsibility for WannaCry. He said the U.S. seeks to partner with other nations and the private sector to prevent future attacks. While WannaCry raised relatively little money for its perpetrators — few paid up after it proved that paying the ransom didn't unlock affected computers — its impact was vast. Government offices in Russia, Spain and other countries were disrupted, as were Asian universities, Germany's national railway and global companies such as automakers Nissan and Renault. British hacker Marcus Hutchins disarmed the attack by identifying a "kill switch" in the code. In a twist, the FBI arrested Hutchins months later during a visit to the U.S.; he pleaded not guilty and awaits trial on charges he created unrelated forms of malware.
- President Rodrigo Duterte visited the wake of the policeman who was killed in a middle of a drug bust in Pasig City. Director General Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa, PNP chief, accompanied Duterte to the wake of Police Officer 3 Wilfredo Gueta, who was killed in an anti-illegal drug operation in Pasig City on December 18.
- Filipinos in Hong Kong worry they might not return home for Christmas and New Year after discovering that according to reports, air tickets bought through agency Peya Travel cannot be confirmed.
- The Malacanang declared a temporary ceasefire against the communist rebels from the 24th of December to the 2nd of January, 2018.
- Philippines' first transgender lawmaker yesterday lauded President Rodrigo Duterte's support for same-sex marriage but expressed belief that civil partnership is a more "feasible option" in the Philippine setting.
- Saudi Arabia is preparing for the biggest budget in its history, announcing yesterday record expenditures of 978 billion riyals ($261 billion) this coming fiscal year as the government forecasts a boost in revenue from the introduction of a sales tax, plans to lift subsidies further and a modest rise in oil prices.
- Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan is calling on nations to back a non-binding resolution that is expected to be brought to the UN General Assembly and seeks the cancellation of US President Donald Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as the capital city of Israel.
- BMW collaborates with electric vehicle battery company Solid Power for the development of net-generation solid-state batteries, according to reports. The German automaker will assist Solid Power in advancing their technology in order to attain the performance levels required by high-performance EVs, the battery producer said.
- Another teaser for the Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept has dropped and will be revealed on the 15th of January.
- Honda resurrected the Insight once again, this time as a four-door hybrid saloon to be previewed with an Insight Prototype set to be showcased on next month's NAIAS,
- NBC plans to revive the American version of the satirical British sitcom, The Office, with new and returning cast in store.
The Aqours heroes and the Kazuno sisters, better known as Saint Snow, together for the first time in this latest addition to the Love Live! Sunshine!! TV anime 2nd series' music playlist and looks like Christmas will never be the same without this very special treat that brings two groups into one unique album you'd really wish to have.
Awaken the power
So, how did we get from this? Well, in earlier episodes of this series, Aqours' road to redemption begins on a trip to Hakodate, Hokkaido, where they will witness their rival duo Saint Snow's entry to the qualifiers. However, witnessing the sudden downfall of Saint Snow, there's been some drama going on around the two sides, mostly affected are Ruby Kurosawa and Leah Kazuno. Later, the First Years decided to stay at Hakodate for some time to patch things up between Ruby and Leah. With the two sides finally laid their differences aside and with everyone all set, that's where Awaken the power kicks in.
Those who got their first dibs on this new song not just in the TV series but also the School Idol Festival app game got the biggest Christmas treat they've deserved, a full version of the song where Aqours and Saint Snow performed together as one and it's great to see them join forces for this song. As a big thanks, the Saint Snow are pleased to present two songs for your listening pleasure and also, three drama parts where Sarah and Leah will explain everything you need to know from them.
Plus, for a limited time, you will get an entry for a chance to win tickets for the Saint Snow PRESENTS LOVELIVE! SUNSHINE!! HAKODATE UNIT CARNIVAL, happening at the Hakodate Arena on the 27th to the 28th of April, 2018.
Enjoy their latest offerings and keep watching the second series of the Love Live! Sunshine!! TV series every Saturday nights for more of our favorite Aqours heroes.
South Korean President Moon Jae-in places the most significance on his state visit to China, out of the seven countries he has visited and some 40 bilateral summit talks he has held.
That's according to the president himself as he chaired a weekly meeting of his Cabinet Tuesday morning. Korea's Trade Ministry has submitted its plan to renegotiate the Korea-US Free Trade Agreement to the National Assembly.
Noting that the China visit marked the last of his overseas trips of this year, which was mainly focused on restoring and repairing the nation's frayed relations with other countries the president vowed to carry on his policy of "practical diplomacy" placing utmost priority on South Korea's national interest and the Korean people.
- President Rodrigo Duterte signed into law the P3.8-trillion 2018 national budget, and the first package of the much-awaited tax reform program that seeks to raise P130 billion in revenues to bankroll his administration’s economic agenda. Under its P8.44-trillion 2017-2022 “Build, Build, Build” program, the government aims to ramp up its spending on infrastructure alone to P1.899 trillion, equivalent to 7.45% of gross domestic product, by the time Duterte ends his term in 2022.
- The Philippine government declined the offer of a second aid package from a US poverty reduction agency due to the urgent priority of the administration to rebuild Marawi.
- Vice Admiral Ronald Mercado was sacked from his position as the Philippine Navy Flag Officer-in-Command. Rear Admiral Robert Empedrad was installed as acting Flag Officer-in-Command during the change of command ceremony held this morning.
- At least three people are killed and several are injured when an Amtrak train got derailed over a bridge near Dupont, Washington. According to the NTSB, the train was traveling 80mph in a 30mph zone.
- Experts have recorded high seismic activity at the Stromboli volcano in the Aeolian Islands, north of Sicily. The explosions come after the major explosion of the volcano on December 1, according to the Catania section of Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology, which monitors Stromboli.
- The Malaysian government has banned foreign cars with dark window tints, according to reports. Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Abdul Aziz Kaprawi said the JPJ will be instructed to exercise the directive as dark tints are a clear sign of danger.
- Atlus announced Catherine: Full Body, a revised version of the classic puzzle game, for PS4 and PSVite, featuring a storyline never before heard in the original Catherine.
Yesterday, I took a bite out of one of the sensations of 2017, Samyang's 2X SPICY HOT Chicken Flavor Ramen, and despite cheating it with some means necessary, the hellish spiciness burnt my mouth like crazy. I even resort myself drinking lots of milk to cool it off but that spiciness lingers on my mouth for an hour. So, what's up with these noodles from hell anyway?
Made as a limited edition variant of Samyang's long line of Chicken Flavor Ramen range, this 2X SPICY variant became all the rage not just in South Korea but the rest of the world. In fact, many people attempt to show the world that they're brave enough to eat the beast of the noodle and sacrifice their mouths just to show themselves off.
Admittedly, people have to be as crazy as Kim Jong Un to nab a pack of these but if you're itching to get one now, you can't because Samyang stopped making these variants so you'll have to make do with the mild and tangy Chicken Flavor Ramen flavors. Don't worry, there are spicy variants offered but not as intimidating as the 2X SPICY variant. Still, that leaves me wondering, how come everyone wanted to buy a noodle that could burn their mouths to oblivion, in the pursuit of showing off?
Whoever the idea of getting a pack of Samyang's 2X Spicy HOT Chicken Flavor Ramen had a death wish or two. To be honest, I just don't know why but probably they want to be humbled the world over, knowing that they have titanium bodies sturdy enough to take on the harshest elements. I understand that and it really rings a bell like the old Salty Spitoon gag from SpongeBob. "How tough are you?" You can either eat one of these and be part of the club or surrender and label yourself a weenie. It's everyone's choice when they picked up a pack of the world's most intimidating noodles at an Asian market.
Having that first bite out of the most hellish noodles ever to come out in South Korea, I always thought that it tastes like a normal Pancit Canton to me but when the spiciness has gone into. let's just say, inferno overdrive, it just keeps burning my mouth even if I douse it with any form of liquid. It's personal experience but I'm sure you guys had your mouth burnt to hell after a platter of Samyang's 2X Spicy HOT Chicken Flavor Ramen and survive the endless torture this noodle brought upon.
Of course, Samyang may have stopped making this nightmarish noodles for good, even though this was a limited edition variant, but they made the world engulfed in the flames of the extra hot noodles and with everyone who took a pack of it engulfed their taste buds to the line of fire, only a handful managed to survive the torturing aftertaste this noodle possess. It may be gone a while but what's next for Samyang, the makers of spicy noodles that became a hit among noodle aficionados? Only time will tell before they let loose with another next big thing but in the meantime, let's think about what we done ever since we gone crazy over the pack of the one I called it the "noodles from hell".
As SUVs became the dominant breed of today's motoring era, even some companies wanted to inject some sportscar DNA on their SUVS to make it more enjoyable while carrying the entire family for trips. One such example is this...
The all-new Porsche Cayenne, part of Forza Motorsport 7's Doritos Car Pack.
It's amazing that even though Forza Motorsport 7's been poisoned against us by baby boomers because they keep featuring cars from the baby boomer era rather than focusing on cars focused on millennials (it's a millennial's game, after all), they still feature us some of the latest machines we really like, especially the latest version of Porsche's first SUV. So, what is it then, the new Cayenne?
The new Cayenne is built from the ground up and now utilizes a lightweight chassis construction, meaning the new Cayenne now behaves like what a Porsche should be, combining classic Porsche sportscar handling and SUV ruggedness into one unique package and to supplement the improved dynamics of the new Cayenne are rear-axle steering, Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control, and three-chamber air suspension, most are programmed via 4D Chassis Control.
Under the hood, the new Cayenne is powered by a choice of a 3.0L V6 turbo for the base Cayenne, a 2.9L V6 Twin Turbo for the Cayenne S, and the 4.0L V8 Twin Turbo engine for the Cayenne Turbo which delivers 550HP of power and 770Nm of torque with 286 km/h of top speed, all mated with the more responsive eight-speed Tiptronic S gearbox. The Turbo variant is the first SUV to feature a variable rear spoiler and an air brake.
The new Cayenne continues the tradition of past models, injecting Porsche DNA to its SUV ruggedness for the drivers who have everything or nothing.
Having my first word on the Cayenne, I always believed that it truly an exciting SUV to drive for almost any situations but it can be downright bothersome for Porsche enthusiasts, and here in FM7, it holds my word on it because it can be either exciting and bothersome at the same time not because of how heavy it is to be classified an SUV with sportscar DNA but also the looks of it. Still, this one is an improvement compared to the last Cayenne I drove in past installments. Also, I get to see how the SUV's first variable wing work in high speeds and it will make high-performance SUVs feeling jealous to think they don't have that kind of gimmick this new Cayenne had.
To find out just how good it is, I went to the one state in America that houses the so-called Philosophers' twin lairs, Virginia.
Specifically, the Virginia International Raceway, where on the weekends, you can take any car you want to the max while winding up with some R & R at the same time. The tricky corners, the straights, this place is the perfect opportunity to try out the new Cayenne and despite being lighter than its predecessor, I do get some understeering but the braking is so dramatic because it's got the first ever surface-coated brake which not only makes it last longer than other brakes but also works responsively to deliver the ideal stopping power. The new Cayenne balances the things that are right such as its improved dynamics and braking, with the things that are wrong such as understeering woes, and since Porsche believes that they made their SUV more potent than any other opposition, I've devised a little sparring partner to do the job.
Also in the Doritos Car Pack is this, the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, an SUV with some of Hellcat DNA on it, making it the most powerful 4WD SUV, pause, in the world. 707HP of power, 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds, and a top speed of 180mph. Enough said.
Here in Virginia International Raceway, the corners should favor the Cayenne nicely because despite being heavy, the Cayenne weighs less than the Trackhawk because of its improved dynamics that are tried and tested by Porsche standards, but on the straights, the Trackhawk has the upper hand because, like I said, this is the fastest SUV, pause, in the world, although someone already stripped the Trackhawk's title for that manner, but anyway, let's put that theory to the test with a lap round VIR. This will be a challenge between an SUV with Porsche DNA and an SUV with some Hellcat DNA on it. Roll the tape, please.
And now, the results...
Trackhawk - 2:21.145
Cayenne - 2:23.083
It was a shocking result but I still believe that the new Cayenne is the winner because even though it was outpaced by the Trackhawk in the straights, the handling is something you should not ignore and besides, the Trackhawk's kinda useless to race because the power output exceeds the class' homologation requirements, making the new Cayenne a clear winner to use in such class like this and that is the bottomline.
Korea's Trade Ministry has submitted its plan to renegotiate the Korea-US Free Trade Agreement to the National Assembly.
To come up with the plan, the Ministry for Trade, Industry, and Energy has conducted economic feasibility studies on the five-year-old deal and has gathered opinions from the agriculture and manufacturing sectors through two public hearings and 26 rounds of meetings. It covers the purpose and strategies for the renegotiations and the public hearing results.
The Trade Ministry added that it will protect the country's sensitive industries such as agriculture and livestock, and try to reach a mutually beneficial deal by touching on issues like services, investment, products' country of origin, and non-tariff measures.,
The move comes after the leaders of South Korea and the U.S. agreed to ramp up the process of amending the trade pact during their summit in Seoul last month.
- As Tropical Storm Urduja caused landslides in Eastern Visayas, killing 25 people and 26 unaccounted for, it made landfall over Taytay, Palawan Monday morning after dumping heavy rain that caused floods and landslides in Eastern Visayas. In a weather bulletin issued at 8:00 a.m., Pagasa said Urduja has maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour and gustiness of up to 90 kilometers per hour.
- Last weekend, the Malacanang confirmed that President Rodrigo Duterte will sign into law the 2018 national budget and the tax reform measure.
- The Bureau of Immigration has improved computers at immigration counters with a new biometrics-based system to keep fugitives and terrorists out. In a statement on Monday, Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente said that international airports nationwide have been using the new Border Control Information System for two weeks now.
- The US government slams China over its ongoing development of islands in the disputed South China Sea. US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said the US now has an active mechanism through which Washington and China can put complex issues on the table including the South China Sea row.
- The recent episode of The Simpsons pokes fun at Robert Mueller's ongoing investigation on the Russian interference at last year's elections that propelled Donald Trump to US Presidency. It even features a cartoon Trump shaking hands with President Rodrigo Duterte, a nod from last month's ASEAN summit.
- Chevrolet previews the fourth-generation Silverado at an event in Texas, featuring higher-grade allow in the roll-formed, high-strength-steel bed floor for added durability and lightness, as well as the offroad-focused Trailboss variant.
2019 Chevrolet Silverado
- Nissan recalls over 320,000 vehicles for fire hazard in Japan. This recall involves six models from the Japanese manufacturer, including the Serena as well as vans and MPVs built for Suzuki and Mitsubishi produced between February 2010 and September 2014.
- Return to Need For Speed Payback with the new Speedcross DLC pack featuring two new cars such as the MINI JCW Countryman and the Infiniti Q60 S as well as new speedcross challenges to take. The DLC arrives in stores December 19.
Known as the baby Golf in the lineup, the Polo is known to be the most accessible Volkswagen money can buy and being small, it does had some fair share among motorists elsewhere. With the arrival of the new, sixth-generation model, the new Polo tries to win the hearts of motorists in the midst of concerns Volkswagen's facing right now, with its new tech, new engine, and other features that makes it a class apart.
2018 Volkswagen Polo
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, because what you''re looking at here is the all-new Volkswagen Polo and for its sixth-generation, Volkswagen aims this new model to be the best Polo ever built having accumulated over 14 million units sold worldwide since the first one with its new design, new interior, new dynamics, and new packaging that makes it a class apart the rest.
Checking first on the exterior and at first glance, it borrows some styling cues from its big brother, the current-generation Golf, making it sharper looking than before, which is good, but on the back, they haven't bothered at all, which is similar to Suzuki's Baleno, having cars that are sharper up front but bland on the back. Also, it's available exclusively as a five-door only because three door hatchbacks are better off dead (except for some) and five doors are better looking than three doors.
2018 Volkswagen Polo interior
On the inside, it's not half bad to look at and in tune with today's trends, the new Polo is the first Volkswagen and the first Volkswagen Group model ever to offer this new generation of the Active Info Display, which is as vivid as the graphics from the video games donning the 4K era, and at the flick of the switch, the display changes course to suit your preference. Apart from the many gadgets you can toy around, especially the Beats Audio from the Beats variant of this car, the new Polo, being utilized by the Volkswagen Group's MQB-A0 platform, is surprisingly spacious for five people and amazingly, there's room at the back for some stuff you snagged from the estate sale from a neighborhood from far away.
2018 Volkswagen Polo
On a base Polo, you have a choice of efficient TSI (petrol), TGI (natural gas) and TDI (diesel) engines with the one with the most grunt is the one with the 1.5L TSi with 150PS of power output while the most efficient is the one with the 1.6 TDi with 3.7L/100km of fuel efficiency, although some people are better off without the diesel variant due to ongoing headlines surrounding Volkswagen right now. Either way, the new platform and the new chassis results to a much rewarding driving experience compared to the previous Polo. Not much exciting by hatchback standards but it's very accessible indeed to get the most out of it. Speaking of exciting...
2018 Volkswagen Polo GTi
If you think the normal Polo's not spicy enough to turn around, perhaps the new GTi might do the thing. Of course, the new Polo GTi gains electronic transverse differential lock for better handling with slightly less chances of understeer, which is good but what's under the hood might shock you. The old model had a twincharged 1.8L petrol engine but the new model dumped the supercharger, left it turbocharged and direct injected, and increase the size to 2.0L. Despite now being turbocharged only, the added size results to 200PS of power, which is slightly more than its predecessor and with the utterly dramatic 6-speed dual clutch gearbox, it does 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds and onwards 237kph. That sounds quick but if you want to keep it fun, there's a 6-speed MT but you have to wait until next year, which is a shame for speedo boys so they'll have to make do with the DSG.
No matter the Polo, you will be greeted by a wide array of safety tech offered because Volkswagen wants to make it the smartest Polo ever made that will stand out the rest such as Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Traffic Alert, Driver Alert System, Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Front Assist area monitoring system, City Emergency Braking, Park Assist, and Tyre Pressure Loss Indicator. Some features are nice but some features, even for speedo boys going for the GTi variant, might drive them mad because it might control their driving experience, but that's the life of a high-tech compact car because you'll have plenty of reasons why you enjoy driving this car no matter the situation.
The all-new, sixth-generation Polo starts at 12,975 Euros plus on road costs, which sounds like fair value, and value aside, there are so many reasons to talk about the new Polo. While the design may not be somewhat a looker as well as the interior, the tech, performance, and packaging is what makes you interested to drive it and live it for everyday use and that is the bottomline.
Yo-Kai Watch Busters 2 Hihou Densetsu Bambalaya Magnum
The Yo-Kai Watch Busters are back with a brand new adventure that will make you dig deep in the Yo-Kai world's mythical treasures only the bravest of the brave Yo-Kai explorers can break themselves through and looks like you're going to need more than your guts to survive different dungeons in your quest to find and fight for your fortune.
Welcome to Yo-Kai Watch Busters 2 and in this hilariously new chapter to the Busters saga, the Yo-Kai Watch Busters team, facing financial uncertainties, have been summoned by renowned treasure hunter Indy J and his crew to set off on a journey at Karakuri Island to find hidden treasures for the Busters team to pay the rent! Be warned, throughout your treasure hunting missions, you will face off against different enemies, including rival treasure hunters trying to make your treasure hunting life more miserable.
An ancient prophecy foretold that the great and powerful Yo-kai Yodelsen will be awoken if the eight mystery legendary Yo-kais surrounding the island have appeared. That was the main topic just like you saw in the TV show but if you are ready to fulfill the prophecy and find the eight powerful treasure Yo-kais that could become the key to unleash Yodelsen, you got to be ready for everything because this could be a lengthy adventure that takes some wits, determination, and some laughs to uncover the ancient mystery. Sounds like our kind of work.
If you're a long-time Yo-Kai Watch viewer who enjoyed watching the show's Busters Treasure segment, here's your chance to live the adventure as T (Treasure) Jibanyan, T Komasan, Indy J, and the rest of the team as you will venture through different dungeons of this island, searching for hidden treasures while blasting your way past powerful baddies along the way. For Busters vets, playable Yo-kais are classified into four classes, the attacker for close-range, the ranger for long-range attacks, the healer for healing allies in a pinch, and the tank for defensive properties. Experimenting with different classes with different tribes can be somewhat challenging for a first-timer but as you are knowledgeable enough to deal with your favorite Yo-Kais, it shouldn't be a slouch, even when you're up against big bosses.
Keeping it true to the Busters tradition, you can play with up to four players cooperatively because if you are getting stuck, feel free to call a friend, a skilled one perhaps, and finish the dungeon job together.
As the adventure progresses, you can gain access to Treasure Gears that will make a big help to your adventure such as the Magnum for mid-range attacks, Chainsword for close-range attacks, and Sniper for long range attacks with a chance of critical hits. There are other Treasure Gears to unlock later on and with equipment like these, you can experiment different battle strategies for the best experience.
Because this game has two versions, Sword and Magnum features powerful legendary Yo-Kais exclusive in each version as well as the bosses to defeat, Yo-Kais to recruit, and the theme songs performed by King Cream Soda. Get this, if you play both Sword and Magnum versions at the same time, you will unlock a hidden Yo-Kai named T-USApyon. Make good use of your new recruit as you venture across different dungeons. There are so many special Yo-kais to recruit just by fulfilling special conditions outside the game but there too much to list, even the fact that this game features a special mission inspired from the Yo-kai Watch Shadowside film, in theaters now. Oh, and if you update your game on the first time you are playing Busters 2, you will receive a powerful S-rank Hyakkihime (Damona). She can make a great addition to your Busters team.
So, with almost everything you need to know about Busters 2 taken care of, it's time to set off to this new kind of adventure as one of your favorite Yo-kais. Solving puzzles, fighting enemies, finding hidden treasures, this is the Busters' kind of work and you are part of it.
THE IDOLM@STER CINDERELLA MASTER Koi ga Saku Kisetsu
The CINDERELLA MASTER range, inspired by THE IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls sub-franchise, continues with the newest addition to the range with brand new songs for you to enjoy as much as you enjoy toying around with your favorite Cinderella Girls.
The highlight of this CINDERELLA MASTER addition is Koi ga Saku Kisetsu and this song is performed by Kaede Takagaki (CV: Saori Hayami), Mio Honda (CV: Sayuri Hara), Hajime Fujiwara (CV: Minori Suzuki), Hina Araki (CV: Rui Tanabe), Yuzu Kitami (CV: Larissa Tago Takeda), Mayu Sakuma (CV: Yui Makino), Tomoe Murakami (CV: Miharu Hanai), Hiromi Seki (CV: Saya Aizawa), and Chieri Ogata (CV: Naomi Ohzora). Not only you'll going to like that song more but it'll make you revved up for more.
If you had enough fun with this highlight song on this album, you can check out two new songs such as always and Tulip. You can listen to these songs if you wish, that is your choice.
Be sure to get one for your Cinderella Girls collection if you like!
Winter is coming...and no, we're not talking about your favorite TV show that is about to reach its climax soon, we're talking about the latest installment of THE IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls MASTER SEASONS range that will make us believe that winter is really here.
THE IDOLM@STER CINDERELLA GIRLS MASTER SEASONS WINTER!
This latest installment of the MASTER SEASONS range features the songs of winter as performed by our favorite Cinderella Girls in the sub-franchise. In this album, you can expect four new songs that matches the theme of the season of cool temperatures and seemingly endless nights. The first one is performed by Miho Kohinata (CV: Minami Tsuda), Mika Jougasaki (CV: Haruka Yoshimura), and Kanade Hayami (CV: Yuko Iida), while the second track is performed by Sae Kobayakawa (CV: Rika Tachibana), Momoka Sakurai (CV: Haruka Terui), Uzuki Shimamura (CV: Ayaka Ohashi). The third track, meanwhile, is performed by Nao Kamiya (CV: Eriko Matsui), Ranko Kanzaki (CV: Maaya Uchida), Tamami Wakiyama (CV: Misa Kayama), and the last one is performed by Sanae Katagiri (CV: Azumi Waki), Emi Namba (CV: Arisa Date), Yuki Himekawa (CV: Mako Morino), leading it up to the audio drama where the girls are having their winter wonderland escapades.
Enjoy winter with this latest installment in the range while sipping a nice cup of cocoa on a cold day.
