Saturday, November 28, 2015

There's no giving up for AlDub in latest Kalyeserye!

Photo: Official Eat
Bulaga Facebook page

In the latest Kalyeserye segment of Eat Bulaga, we all though all hope is lost when Yaya Dub is heading on another place while Alden Richards is going to marry Cindy Kournikova just for the sake of her family's businesses in Russia but miraculously, AlDub never gave up hope as they finally managed to meet each other once again backstage!

What happened to Cindy? Well, while she was going downstairs, getting ready for the wedding, she got tripped and when she regained consciousness, she got amnesia! Wow!

While Cindy completely forgot who she is, we were going to see Alden and Yaya kiss each other but eventually, the big hoking horn honks and everyone's on a standstill.

The story of AlDub's getting more exciting than ever and let's expect more of them every Weekdays on Eat Bulaga!

Skoda Fabia Mk.3 Combi

2015 Skoda Fabia Combi

2015 Skoda Fabia Combi

Notably the estate version of the third-generation Skoda Fabia, the Combi still does the same behavior as expected from the hatchback variant even though it has a bigger boot space fit enough for your groceries. Sure it maybe a sport tourer in its own right but the Fabia Combi, like the hatchback equivalent, feels somewhat average. It may not be brilliant to drive but it's not quite dull either.

On the inside, it's still feels just like what you expect on the hatchback version. It maybe bland to look at but it's surprisingly comfortable and you can feel relaxed while you're at it.

In terms of boot space, it's surprisingly the biggest in its segment with its 530L boot capacity (1,395L with the back seat folded), which is 25% more than the previous Fabia Combi. That's big enough to fit a bucket full of fishes after your fishing trip with your friends or family.

Like the hatchback equivalent, the Combi model features high-tech safety features such as Front Assistant with integrated City Emergency Braking Function and the Multi-Collision Brake, Driver Activity Assistant, Speedlimiter, Hill-Hold Control, and electronic tyre pressure monitor. Apart from the safety features, it also comes with the available SmartGate function which works like your smartphone as well as the new MirrorLink where your smartphone can be easily paired and use specific apps that both your phone and the car had.

Under the hood, the Combi comes with a 1.0L MPi, 1.2 TSi, and the 1.4 TDi. The most powerful in the lineup for now is the one with the 1.2 TSi engine developing 110PS of power and 175Nm of torque. With the 7-speed DSG equipped, 0-100kph takes about a moderate 9.6 seconds and a top speed of a not-so-much 199km/h.

Should you buy one? Well, the Fabia Combi starts at 267,900 Kč, which is 28,000 more than the hatchback version but it remains a smart buy for first-timers everywhere who are looking for some practical sport tourer for a reasonable price.

Photo: Skoda Auto a.s.

I AM BUBBLE GANG - 20th anniversary special


The year 2015 marks the 20th anniversary of the Philippines' longest running comedy gag show aired on GMA, Bubble Gang, and to commenorate such an extraordinary feat in the history of Philippine television, they've aired a special episode titled I AM BUBBLE GANG, which is covered by the GMA News and Public Affairs team, highlighting the best of Bubble Gang's 20 year history of blowing laughter to the Filipinos worldwide.

Viewers got the chance to see Michael V in his transformation as one of his iconic BG characters, witnessing how this show began as a concept, the ups, the downs, cast testimonies, and so much more, all in the name of Bubble Gang's 20th anniversary.

It's been an honor to have a show like this to last for twenty years and here's hoping that for a longest running show on Philippine TV, we want this show to keep on chewing for longer and fresher as long as there's every Filipino who can't get enough of Bubble Gang.

Until then, happy 20th anniversary, BG!

Friday, November 27, 2015

Forza Motorsport 6: Aussie legends

Australian cars...even though they're reaching the imminent end of car production in the Australian mainland, the world of Australian motoring has so many memories cherished by car enthusiasts living Down Under. The most important of all in the history of Aussie motoring is the long rivalry between General Motors Holden and Ford of Australia because when these two makers got involved in the world of motorsports, the argument about which car maker is the best became a living legend. What we have here is the selection of the best Aussie muscle cars that are heavily involved in the world of Aussie motorsports.

falcon falcon (2)

First up is the XB Falcon from Ford. The XB-spec Ford Falcon is the second phase of the third generation of Ford's Australian-made model, which features minor cosmetic differences from the previous XA model. The XB Falcon features different body styles from a saloon, an estate, a ute, a van, and many others. Engine configurations include a 200ci 6-cylinder, a 250ci 6-cylinder, a 302ci V8, and a powerful 351ci V8. Depending on the engine choices, it can be mated with either a 3-speed MT, a 4-speed MT, or a 3-speed AT.

There are numerous special editions of the XB Falcon, including the John Gross Special, which is named after the race driver who won the 1974 Hardie-Ferodo 1000 Touring Car race at Bathurst.

In its involvement in motorsports, a driver named Allan Moffat drove a Falcon to victory in the 1974 Sandown 250 using a GT hardtop model as well as the 1976 Australian Touring Car Championship in the same model and the 1977 Australian Touring Car Championship, using both the XB and the XC Falcons.

The XB Falcon gained fame for being featured as the Pursuit Special in the first Mad Max film in 1979. It was even featured in Eric Bana's documentary, Love the Beast, highlighting his beloved XB Falcon on his 25-year journey.

torana torana (2)

And now, straight from FM6's eBay Motors Car Pack, is one of the most famous Aussie muscle cars created by Holden for the sole purpose of taking on touring car races against Ford Falcons. It's a Holden LX Torana A9X.

The LX-spec Holden Torana is basically a second phase of the third-generation Holden Torana and this A9X version is a limited-edition model aimed at winning in the Australian Touring Car racing and at the annual Bathurst 1000 touring car race.

Based on the SLR 5000 four-door saloon and the three-door SS hatchback models, the A9X features special features such as a rearward-facing bonnet scoop, rear disc brakes, heavy-duty axles, and a heavy-duty 10-bolt differential. The 308ci OHV V8 engine remains untouched.

Touring car legend Peter Brock put the A9X on the motorsports map by winning the 1977 Hang Ten 400 at Sandown but lost its debut Bathurst race in 1977 by Ford Falcons driven by Allan Moffat and Colin Bond. Later, the A9X was refined and led Peter Brock and Bob Morris to victory in the 1978 and 1979 Australian Touring Car Championships as well as the Bathurst 1000 races.

Both these cars are fierce rivals in the history of the Australian Touring Car Championships. Both are Australian-made, have V8 engines in the front, rear-wheel drive in the back, and some racing pedigree hidden beneath their body styles. Looks like I'm onto something here because what am I going to do with these two is to take them around the Top Gear Track and see which car became dominant in the world of Aussie motorsport history. Your worst nightmare, huh? It's like Peter Brock versus Allan Moffat if you ask me.



In the end, I have the results. The Torana A9X did it in 1:35.396 while the XB Falcon did it in 1:33.772, which means that in the end, Ford remains a dominant force in the world of Aussie motorsports but it's still everyone's argument. Sometimes Ford, sometimes Holden, but in the end, it's all about bitter rivalries that will keep on fighting till the very end.

Let's Do The News! (November 27, 2015)


- In the aftermath of a Russian aircraft shot down by the Turkish forces, causing tensions between the two nations, Russia is set to impose wide-ranging economic sanctions against Turkey. This includes the suspension of plans to build a nuclear plant in Akkuyu and of those to lay a gas pipeline between the two nations.

- Meanwhile, Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan demands the Russian government to apologize.

- In the third day of the hearing at The Hague, an expert witness for the Philippines' case against the People's Republic of China said that their reclamation and fishing activities in the West Philippine Sea caused "close to catastrophic" damage to the coral reef system.

- After several months of denial, Davao city mayor Rodrigo Duterte finally formalizes his presidential bid for the May 2016 elections.

- The first two units of FA-50PH fighter jets from South Korea en route to delivery for the Philippine Air Force took off to Clark Air Base in Pampanga.

- The twists are looming in Eat Bulaga's Kalyeserye right now and with Alden and Yaya Dub going to give up on their precious moments, what will tomorrow's episode be the outcome? Is Alden going to marry Cindy? Is Yaya Dub going to another country to do some studying? Will this be the breakup we don't really want? Find out tomorrow!

- Clear the desk, producers! There's a brand new figure courtesy of Good Smile Company's Phat! modeled after THE IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls' Anastasia donned in her LOVE LAIKA outfit. You can book one now for 9,000 Yen (plus tax) and she'll be arriving at your desk this June.

Phat! Anastasia LOVE LAIKA Ver.

- Actor Dingdong Dantes to attend the United Nations' COP21 Climate Change Forum in Paris, France?

- Cesar Montano's reaction to his four-minute kiss with former adult video star Maria Ozawa for the horror movie Nilalang, which is the entry to next month's MMFF, says it was a religious experience.

TTFN!!!

WAO-WAO Powerful day!

WAO-WAO Powerful day!

This is the latest song added in the ever-popular Love Live! School Idol Festival app game (at least in Japan for now, in case whoever's asking) and it's sung by one of the sub-units from μ's called Printemps, which consists of Honoka Kousaka, Kotori Minami, and Hanayo Koizumi. Yes, this song is titled WAO-WAO Powerful day and like any other SIF-exclusive songs, you should not underestimate its catchy tune because in true SIF fashion, it takes guts to master this latest song from EASY to HARD (with EXPERT difficulty to follow very very soon), but if you decided to take a break from your recent SIF shenanigans, why not listen to this maxi single CD featuring the song as heard from the School Idol Festival app game?

The latest single features two songs, WAO-WAO Powerful day! and NO EXIT ORION, as heard on the School Idol Festival game and for a limited time only, there's a serial code that can unlock a Super Rare μ's idol for use in the School Idol Festival game.

TRACK LISTINGS:

01. WAO-WAO Powerful day!
02. NO EXIT ORION
03. WAO-WAO Powerful day!(Off Vocal)
04. NO EXIT ORION(Off Vocal)

Thursday, November 26, 2015

Daihatsu Cast Sport

If I may be so bold regarding the recently launched Daihatsu Cast, now it's the ideal time to explain more about the third model in the Cast range which consists of the Style, which is a stylish kei car fit for the fashionistas, and the Activa, which is a kei crossover that means business for the young adventurers who love to go out for their lifestyles.

2016 Daihatsu Cast Sport

2016 Daihatsu Cast Sport interior

Called the Cast Sport, this is known to be Daihatsu's response to Suzuki's Alto Turbo RS in the same way the Style responds on the Honda N ONE and the Activa responds to the Suzuki Hustler. Although this is considered to be a half-decent hot hatch for the masses, one look of the Cast Sport and you'll say that is one heck of a racy hot hatch money can buy and yes this is an affordable hot hatch as it starts at just 1,620,000 Yen, which sounds more affordable to buy than any European hot hatches on the market but it's annoyingly 400,000 Yen more than the Alto Turbo RS.

The Cast Sport features a KF-VET 660cc turbo engine as seen on the Style and Activa variants but because this is a sport-oriented model, even though it comes with a CVT gearbox, there are paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel for added control over its simulated gear changes. That sounds like fun but not as fun as its fuel consumption because its 24.8km/L is something what its rival could laugh on because when compared against the Alto Turbo RS, that's 0.8km/L less.

That sounds awkward in terms of performance but just like the Alto Turbo RS, the new Cast Sport still performs very well as a city car and when it comes to driving this small car, this cheeky looking Daihatsu knows that it likes to mess up with the big boys when it comes to a little game of cat and mouse because this little hot kei car likes to be creative enough to outfox the big boys.

Like most Cast models, the Sport comes with Daihatsu's Smart Assist II consisting of Emergency Stop Signal system, Lane Departure Warning, Pedestrian Detection, and many other safety tech offered.

With the Cast lineup well and truly complete, you now have a choice. So, which would you prefer? The Style which is fashionista-friendly that you can take it on your next shopping trip? The Activa which is the ideal adventure partner on your next day off? Or is it the Sport with its clever tricks up to its sleeve? I'll leave the decision up to you but judging by how far first-time buyers been through to buy one, I'm afraid most of them would go for the Activa for numerous reasons I don't really understand.

Photo: Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd.

Let's Do The News! (November 26, 2015)



- On their second day of the hearing on the merits of the case at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, the Philippines focused on the PRC's deprivation of fishing and exploration rights. The delegation argued that China's construction activities in the region destroy the sea bed.

- The Turkish military released what it says is an audio recording of warnings made to the Russian warplane its fighters shot down on Tuesday. It translates in English; "this is Turkish Air Force speaking on guard. You are approaching Turkish airspace. Change your heading south immediately." The military maintains that the warnings were issued from its hub in the southeastern city of Diyarbakir. Meanwhile, Russia denied claims that its warplane shot down by Turkish fighters had not violated that country's airspace. Later, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov told reporters that Russia will not wage war against Turkey, stating that they have no intention to go to war.

- French Prime Minister Manuel Valls warned the public that Europe cannot take in more refugees and migrants as tighter control of Europe's external borders would determine the fate of this continent.

- The North and South Korea are holding working-level talks at Panmunjom in the DMZ to prepare for a top priority meeting to improve relations between the two Koreas.

- Following his surprising presidential candidacy, Davao mayor Rodrigo Duterte tops the presidential survey conducted by Pulse Asia.

- It ain't over till it's over. There's a new two-parter special of Top Gear coming this Christmas season called Top Gear: From A to Z. This special highlights the best of Clarkson, Hammond, and May through alphabetical terms from the start to finish, from astonishing footage, insider facts, and quirky statistics.

- In case you missed the recent Eat Bulaga kalyeserye, it's AlDub's 19th weeksary and it's a disappointing one as Alden and Yaya Dub trying to cope with the difficulties they're facing with, including the imminent wedding of Alden and Cindy. When Alden received a phone call from his Lola Babah, it seems that Lola Babah rejecting his refusal to marry Cindy made him enraged and he drove off the studio indefinitely. So, what happens next? Tune in next time and find out.

- Hong Kong DisneyLand celebrated its 10th anniversary since it was opened in 2005. Check out the sights and sounds of Hong Kong DisneyLand's 10th anniversary celebration courtesy of PEP.

- Legendary Japanese actress Setsuko Hara died of pneumonia in September at the age of 95. Hara was born in Yokohama in 1920 and she made her debut as an actress at he age of 15. Her popularity as an actress rose as the leading lade of a 1937 film, The Daughter of the Samurai, co-produced by Germany and Japan. Hara performed in 101, most were directed by veteran director Yasujiro OZu, including Early Summer and Tokyo Story.

- In game one of the UAAP Season 78 finals, the FEU Tamaraws scored a win in a best-of-three match against the UST Growling Tigers at the score of 75-64. Only one more win is needed to crown as this season's victors and we'll find out on the 28th of November to see if FEU wins it all or UST wants a tiebreaker to level their playing field.

TTFN!!!

Disney's The Good Dinosaur


For the first time, there are two Disney-Pixar films shown in the year 2015. Last summer, we've ventured to an emotional rollercoaster ride with Joy, Sadness, Disgust, Anger, and Fear in Inside Out, and now, just in time for the holidays, there's a brand new Disney-Pixar movie adventure that retains its uniqueness, something that Pixar's done so hard for the past twenty years since the first Toy Story. It's called The Good Dinosaur.

In the alternate prehistoric time history when the asteroid that changed the world forever missed the planet, dinosaurs are taking the same path to civilization that humans did. Enter Arlo (voiced by Raymond Ochoa), the youngest and smallest of his three siblings who struggles to live with his family until a fateful tragedy where Arlo gets washed up away from his home. Struggle to find his way home, he encounters a little boy and the unlikely duo sets out on an amazing journey that they will remember forever.

Like any other Disney-Pixar films like WALL-E and UP, this film suffers the same issue in terms of storyline because some people might think that it feels so pointless to watch and it's nothing more of almost a two hour boredom fest about a little dinosaur and a little boy venturing out on fantastic places but despite its boring storyline, some might find that this movie is, what the kids would say, cute. Indeed, it's somewhat a very cute movie that requires no words to describe it and because this is a Disney-Pixar film, it still incorporates emotions very well. We can be happy, sad, scared, annoyed, or angered but The Good Dinosaur still carries out the traditional Disney-Pixar heritage that most moviegoers, even the little tykes, cherished through the years.

Although boring to watch, The Good Dinosaur is just one of the many movies you would stand up and cheer. It's also the ideal family movie to watch in time for the holidays so why not watch it with your whole family? After that, you might ask the kids if Arlo's their favorite cartoon dinosaur and if they do, they really agreed that they love this kids film.

My rating: 3.2 out of 5

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

M@GIC☆

M@GIC☆

Now, here's the thing they've been saving it the best for last. Sure, the Cinderella Girls anime series is well and truly over but there's more to love about the entire series so in honor of their virtuous thanks to the IDOLM@STER fans who watched the Cinderella Girls anime series 'till the very end, here's the newest single CD featuring the final episode's song, titled M@GIC☆.

In this single, not only the titular song as heard from the finale was featured but also the normal closing song 夢色ハーモニー and as a bonus, the LIVE MIX of Uzuki Shimamura's song titled S(mile)ING! For those who got a limited edition, there's a bonus Blu-Ray hybrid Disc featuring textless opening and closing sequences and three special BD audios to listen to. Believe it or not, this latest single is now integrated to THE IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls Starlight Stage app game so feel free to master the final song as long as you like from Debut to Master difficulty!

Anyway, with the single now available, the producers would like to thank you for your gratuitous support on the Cinderella Girls anime series as well as honoring THE IDOLM@STER franchise's 10th anniversary. All that's left to say is...thank you for watching and goodbye.

Lexus GS F

The current-generation Lexus GS has been given a minor change and apart from the 2.5L V6-powered GS250, 3.5L V6-powered GS350, 3.5L V6 hybrid powered GS450h, and a 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid powered GS300h, there is now a much-awaited high performance version of the GS, called the GS F, and some JDM fans are getting desperate to have a go in one of these.

2016 Lexus GS F

Here it is, ladies and gentlemen, and I can't hardly say that this is the high performance GS we really like if anyone's honest. Sure, it maybe late than never in the fight against the BMW M5 and the Mercedes-AMG E63, but this super saloon really means business for anyone who has the upper hand. Like the facelifted normal GS, the new GS becomes more menacing and more aggressive than a heavyweight Yakuza goon.

Think about it, if anyone who pulled in one of these, you'll know that this guy has some anger management to deal with, probably from his officemates or his boss or his wife or his mistress. Same thing goes to the interior.

2016 Lexus GS F interior

2016 Lexus GS F interior

No gentlemen's manor here because on the inside, the gentlemen's club has now been transformed into a torture room only a mad scientist would have think of. Even though it's all upholstered in sporty leather trim, it's surprisingly luxurious and has tons of toys to play with because deep down, we're like...boys with toys.

2016 Lexus GS F

The new GS F is solely focused of being a Fuji-born super saloon that can handle like a European super saloon. Whereas most European super saloons have gone on the turbocharging route, seems that Lexus is lagging behind the super saloon stakes because the GS F is powered by the similar engine from the RC F, a 5.0L V8 engine that produces 477PS of power and 530Nm of torque, mated with an 8-speed SPDS. Fuel consumption is around 8.2 km/L.

I know this is still a naturally aspirated V8 engine, which has become a thing of a past for super saloons of today, but at least it's not artificial. All you can hear is good, old-fashioned, V8 fun because Lexus are very serious about making F cars sound so macho in every tangible way. Sure, the new GS F may be lagging behind from the European opposition but this is still a show-offy experience any driver couldn't resist to its waku-doki charm.

According to the dossier, the GS F comes with VDIM, Torque Vectoring Differential, front and real coil-spring independent suspension, and other performance enhancing features that any F car inherited from the legendary LFA supercar so you might think it's a track-ready super saloon that likes to leave the opposition in a cloud of tire smoke but truth be told, its dynamics will really choke you and defenestrate you alive. 

When you thrash this car through the corners, you can't really tell how it performs but its oversteer feels like your boss is going to defenestrate you from a seventy-story building. No wait, picture a salaryman getting chased by a giant globe rampaging the office, gets away by elevator, grabs himself on the wire, got hit by a falling debris and got picked up by the ambulance, escaped from the ambulance, and gets ended up on a date with a hot lady. Ooh-la-la.

This is going to be one of the harshest super saloons you can drive today and with prices start at 11,000,000 Yen, it's very harsh to buy one unless you are part of a powerful Yakuza or a Triad. Would you buy one? Like I told but if you want to survive driving this car that goes plenty of smoke but no apple cider, good luck with that because chances are you will get devoured from its terrifying dynamics that only the best drivers can keep it under control.

Available colors: White Nova Glass Flake, Mercury Grey Mica, Sonic Silver, Sonic Titanium, Graphite Black Glass Flake, Red Mica Crystal Shine, Lava Orange Crystal Shine, and Heat Blue Contrast Layering.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation 

Let's Do The News! (November 25, 2015)


- Back into the Paris attacks, a man who practice an ultra-orthodox version of Islam has been imprisoned after a police raid on his home in the Pyrenees region. The suspect, Olivier Corel, was detained for questioning and was jailed for illegal holding of a hunting rifle. Authorities believe Corel, who is of Syrian origin, lodged Fabien Clain, who is reported to have been the voice of ISIS' French-language claim of responsibility for the November 13 attacks.

- The US State Department issued a global travel alerts, alerting Americans to possible risks of travel due to increased terrorist threats following the Paris attacks and the recent attack in Bamako, Mali.

- In the first day of the oral arguments of the hearing on merits at the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague, Netherlands, the Philippines hits the People's Republic of China's lack of basis over historic claims over the nine-dash line in the South China Sea. Meanwhile, the Chinese government warned that the Philippines breached consensus between the two nations over the arbitration case.

- The Bangsamoro Bill will be junked if not passed by the December 16 deadline.

- The United Nations condemned new border restrictions on refugees and migrants imposed by the Balkan States based on nationality. The new border restrictions state that people other than nationals of Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan are not allowed to cross the borders between Greece and Macedonia and between Macedonia and Serbia.

- Turkish fighters shot down a Russian warplane after warning that it has breached the Turkish airspace near the border with Syria, One of the two pilots were killed by gunfire from the ground and in addition, a crew member of a Russian helicopter was also killed when it came under attack. The helicopter was heading to rescue the pilots of the downed plane. It's the first time Russia acknowledged that its solders were killed in actions since airstrikes on Islamic State militants in Syria began two months ago.

- The first pic of the second-generation Kia K7 (Cadenza in world markets) was revealed.


2017 Kia K7
- A teaser trailer for the upcoming PriPara movie, titled PriPara Mi~nna no Akogare Let's Go PriPara, is here, revealing its March 12 showing date. Is this the ideal idol movie you would watch, even for the little girls who love this kids show about idols?



- In case you missed the recent Eat Bulaga kalyeserye, Lola Nidora, Tidora, and Yaya Dub received invitations to the weeding of Cindy Kournikova and Alden Richards. If that wasn't enough, our old enemy has returned. Yep, Frankie Arinolli's back on the road, folks. Sure, he moved on after Yaya Dub broke his heart months ago but when Cindy Kournikova's arrived, all heck breaks loose. Cindy wanted to have a chat with Yaya Dub but because of what's going on, Yaya Dub concedes to her. What will happene to AlDub? Tune in next time and find out.

TTFN!!!

Tuesday, November 24, 2015

Let's Do The News! (November 24, 2015)


- South Korean intelligence states that an aide to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un may have been sent to a rural farm for a problem with the nation's new power plant. Choe Ryong Hae, the secretary of North Korea's Workers' Party, once represented the North at a military parade in Beijing but his name has been missing from the leadership list since the beginning of this month, raising suspicions about his where abouts.

- South Korean president Park Geun-hye says that her nation should maintain maximum security preparedness as she made remarks in a video message released at a ceremony in Seoul to mark the fifth anniversary of the North Korea's shelling of Yeonpyeong Island in the Yellow Sea, killing four people, including two civilians.

- The Belgian capital city, Brussels, has its maximum security alert extended until next Monday as the manhunt on suspected Islamic State militants behind the Paris attacks continues. So far, they have detained 21 suspects in the country but didn't provide information about their whereabouts.

- According to a certain whistleblower, the victims of the Maguindanao Massacre six years ago were shot down while praying.

- Lolita "Lottie" Manalo-Hemedez, the sister of the ousted Iglesia Ni Cristo executive minister Eduardo Manalo, questions about the sale of a two-hectare lot on Tandang Sora Ave. in Quezon City that the religion sect claims as its property.

- In case you missed the recent Eat Bulaga Kalyeserye, as Alden's on a faraway place, Yaya Dub tries to prepare her worst reactions regarding his wedding with the Russian supermodel, Cindy Kournikova. When she appeared, there's some backlash of jokes and then the part where Cindy sang something Russian very well. When the so-called riding in tandem appeared with a letter for Yaya, she rejoiced that she's approved but approved for what? Tune in next time and find out.

- This is the first official image of the upcoming Doctor Who 2015 Christmas Special featuring Peter Capaldi as The Doctor and Alex Kingston as River Song. It will be premiered this Christmas Day.


- She may have injured her right foot during rehearsals but THE IDOLM@STER seiyuu, Chiaki Takahashi, vowed to attend the concert with her fellow Aice⁵ members, this time, she will be singing from a comfortable chaise lounge chair with her members carrying her in it.

- Jason Ivler was found guilty of killing the son of a former Malacanang official six years ago. He was sentenced to reclusion perpetua by the Quezon City Regional Trial Court for the murder of Renato Ebarle Jr. in a road-rage killing incident on November 18, 2009.

TTFN!!!

Monday, November 23, 2015

Lincoln MKX - Second Generation

Some you might think that in the past, the Lincoln MKX is just a Ford Edge with some fancy bling-bling on its face, but not anymore it isn't because it's been regenerated to prove that this brand new MKX from Lincoln is a lot more different from its Ford Edge relative.

2016 Lincoln MKX
This new model looks pretty much the same as any other Lincolns in today's lineup and far from it, the new MKX looks faintly similar to its little brother, the MKC, which is Lincoln's own take to the Ford Escape crossover. So, what to expect on this new model, everyone presumes?

First, the design, and because the new MKX still comes with the signature Lincoln front like what you expect in most models, it looks kinda floppy for a luxury crossover. And when you come inside...

2016 Lincoln MKX interior
It's the same story because what you can expect is the usual Lincoln interior like you saw from most models. There's the buttons that take place of the gearbox, which is kinda weird for a car like this, the instrumental panel that looks futuristic but rather bland, and then, the useless SYNC sat-nav that most cars from the Ford Motor Company had as of now. Of course, getting in is easy but getting out is a hard thing to do because even with ample space, you still find yourself in the squeeze zone, where your legs are having a hard time finding a way out. Despite that, it's fairly comfortable and very quiet indeed, which is a proper necessity for a luxury crossover.

2016 Lincoln MKX

The most powerful in the lineup is the one with the 2.7 Ecoboost V6 engine, which generates 335hp of power and 515Nm of torque. Not only this engine's a very high-performance player in the playing field, it's surprisingly economical because it has a class-leading EPA-estimated highway fuel economy of 26mpg (city 17mpg), although actual fuel mileages can vary. It terms of handling, there's so much to bother about the new MKX. You have this Lincoln Drive Control with Continuously Controlled Damping, electric power steering, active noise control, and an optional adaptive steering which features three driving modes. Yes, we want to make it more comfortable or more sporty but it feels so wrong no matter the settings because if you try to set it to Sport, it feels like it's been solidified rather than being sharp on the handling curves.
2016 Lincoln MKX

Like good luxury crossovers, the new MKX is tech-savvy with numerous technological features offered. It comes with Enhanced Active Park Assist where this crossover can park by itself when it sees an open parking space, lane keeping system, hands-free power liftgate that can be opened automatically when you lift your feet up, and 360-degree camera, and of course, an available MyLincoln Mobile with Embedded modem, Your smartphone can be your carkey, that's science get information to you.

The new MKX starts at 38,260 US Dollars and when compared to its European rivals, that pricing sounds very promising but not as promising as what it offers you in terms of style, the interior, and the dynamics but the tech and performance is surely not half bad for the new MKX. Even though this new model is a departure of being a Ford Edge-based vehicle, there are some few kinks to work out later on. Until then, this crossover has a hard act to follow.

Photo: Ford Motor Company

Let's Do The News! (November 23, 2015)


- Typhoon Marilyn has weakened and expected to leave the Philippines by Wednesday evening or Thursday, according to PAGASA. As of 0600 hours, Philippine time, the typhoon was located 1,140km east of Baler, Aurora with winds of 160kph and gusts of up to 195kph. It is likely to move west northwest at 20kph but expected to change directions to north northeast due to the presence of ridge of high pressure area.

- Davaoenos rejoiced when their mayor Rodrigo Duterte finally takes part of next year's May elections as a presidential candidate. In Manila, COMELEC is ready to review Duterte's Certificate of Candidacy if he formally applies for a substitution in order to run for the presidential elections.

- Argentine opposition party leader, Mauricio Macri, won Argentina's presidential election, signalling the end of 12-year-long left-wing rule after scoring more votes than Buenos Aires governor Daniel Scioli, who was chosen as the successor to outgoing leader Cristina Fernandez.

- Back to the Paris attacks, French authorities state that two of the three suicide bombers have traveled through Greece while they're still seeking information about one of the attackers. Some reports quoted that the attackers travelled through Greece might have blended in with refugees.

- Belgium to remain on the highest security level as it stays on the alert for possible terrorist attacks while the investigation for Belgian-born suspect Salah Abdeslam and others in connect with the Paris attacks are ongoing.

- In case you missed the recent Eat Bulaga kalyeserye, that Russian fashionista girl Cindy Kournikova confirmed that their wedding between her and Alden will be...this Saturday! Oh nyet! Cindy said that her wedding with Alden is for some Russian business but Alden fed up with Cindy and decided to go as faraway as possible. Where is Alden going at? Tune in next time and find out!

- Pokemon Centers across Japan will have a very special event beginning on the 12th of December. Known to be the first of their Tsuyo Kawa Pikachu no Mega Campaign, customers can obtain a Shiny Diancie for use in Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire 3DS games. Then, they're offering special Pikachu plushies dressed as Mega Charizard Y, Mega Charizard X, Mega Sableye, Mega Lucario, Mega Altaria, Mega Audino, and Mega Slowbro. Also, there's a special Pikachu card exclusive to this campaign for use in the Pokemon TCG and card files featuring Pikachu dressed as one of the Mega Evolved Pokemon including Mega Rayquaza, which is perfect to store your precious Pokemon cards on the move.  Meanwhile, some selected Pokemon Centers in Japan feature Pikachu mascots dressed as Mega Evolved Pokemon for a little meet and greet. Last, a powerful Charizard Tretta for use on the Pokemon Tretta arcade game. It comes equipped with a Charizardite X so players can Mega Evolve it and unleash a barrage of attacks, all in the name of collecting more Trettas.

- Celebrity couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes welcomed the birth of their baby girl Maria Letizia.

- Check out the full trailer of their upcoming RomCom starring AlDub titled My Bebe Love #KiligPaMore.



- Ferrari F1 driver Sebastian Vettel wins this year's edition of Race of Champions.

Sunday, November 22, 2015

Mini JCW (F56) vs. Audi RS3 Sportback (8V) vs. Opel/Vauxhall Corsa E OPC/VXR

Back when the new generation Mini was launched, the latest model is no longer a Mini in terms of size. It's more of a Wumbo if you ask them. Despite its go-kart handling promise that Mini delivers for the new model, it doesn't cut the mustard when it gets through tight spaces and it doesn't feel like what the old Mini does in its heydays.

2015 Mini John Cooper Works

So, what do we have here? I'm sensing jealousy from anyone who haven't tried this one out yet. Yes, this is the high-performance version of the new Mini, it's called the John Cooper Works, and for this new model, Mini claims that this is their most powerful car in the family tree, although I'm not particularly sure that this is their best bet in the world of hot hatches.

It's powered by a turbocharged 2.0L petrol engine generating 231PS of power and 320Nm of torque. When mated with a 6-speed automatic gearbox, 0-100kph takes about 6.1 seconds and a top speed of around 246kph. That sounds like a quick car for a quick getaway from your nana's house but because all good hot hatches need to be good at handling, how was it? Is it better than the Cooper S any person had one?

Thanks to its track-honed suspension setup as well as Brembo brakes and special alloy wheels made specifically for this model, the new model isn't half bad to thrash around in the corners. Since this car is all about being a beginner's luck, any driver can drive one before getting advance through luxury sports cars and high-end exotics. Perhaps this is more of a crash course for those who are new to the track day scene, eh? What about taking on the city roads? Is it worth it? Well, not quite because since this is still a wumbofied Mini, your best chance is not to drive it on the tights because you'll be getting a hard time surviving on small spaces much as the normal new Mini does.

Yes, it might still be as big as the normal Mini, but to be honest, the new JCW mixes the things that are right with the things that are wrong so even though this is worth of a challenge, this is still a well accessible track day car you can use it anytime just as long as it doesn't get to situations that doesn't cut the mustard.

2016 Audi RS3 Sportback

If you're opening to suggestions that the new Mini JCW is lacking power, perhaps you should better off with this; the all-new Audi RS3 Sportback.

Think of the new RS3 Sportback as a posh version of its cousin, the VW Golf R, but unlike the Golf R, this new RS3 comes with a 2.5L 5-cylinder turbocharged engine developing 367PS of power and 465Nm of torques. It's the most powerful hot hatch ever created by the Volkswagen Group, and even though this is more than the pre-facelifted A45 AMG, the currently-facelifted A45 AMG backlashed it with more power, which is kinda sad.

Anyway, because this is Audi's most powerful hatchback in the range, it's 0-100kph time is 4.3 seconds while the top speed electronically limited to 250kph or you can go for an optional extra where the limit can be raised to 280kph, which is definitely a fast hatch full-stop.

Of course, good hot hatchbacks don't rely on straight-line performance, and how does the RS3 fare well as a track-day car? Sadly, it's very challenging. Even though it has a four-wheel drive powertrain, driving the new RS3 is like trying to survive a bull riding competition for years and when it sees a corner, best to prepare some painkillers over this one because it's too much grip and understeering can be a pain in the neck. If this car understeers, it's like you've got choked by an angry German who got his schnitzel messed up.

So, would you recommend it? Well, in terms of speed, the new RS3 is a clear bet but in terms of track day use, perhaps this new model warns the drivers that it will going to send them to the chokey. Man, someone's going to get choked by this hot hatch when it understeers.

2016 Opel Corsa OPC

2016 Vauxhall Corsa VXR

If it's affordability you're after, how about this? The new Opel Corsa OPC (Vauxhall Corsa VXR). Now, according to the pricelist, the new Mini JCW costs around 29,900 Euros while the new RS3 starts at 52,700 Euros. The newest version of the Corsa OPC/VXR starts at a very accessible 24,650 Euros (18,375 Pounds) and what you have here is a pocket rocket with very accessible handling that makes it popular among car enthusiasts.

Of course, its 2.0L turbo engine produces the least amount of power when compared to the new JCW and the new RS3, but unlike the other two, it's compact and nimble enough to cut through corners like a game of fruit ninja. Juicy.

It feels generous, it feels accessible, and when getting through the tightest of situations, it's not half bad at all. This is definitely the ideal hot hatch you can have if you're in a mood for some track-day fun.

So, what's your pick? Well, when you compare these hot hatches, chances are very random because a few might go for the new JCW, some might go for the new RS3, while most might go for the hot Corsa. Above all, the newest Corsa OPC/VXR is their best chance because even though it's not as powerful as the others, it's a very accessible hot hatch that you can use it all the time as long as they're not involved in any shenanigans on the city,

Doctor Who S09E10

Doctor Who S09E10

Two familiar faces appeared on this episode of Doctor Who, titled Face the Raven. First, there was Rigsy, the "local knowledge" who Clara helped him from dealing with the wall mystery last year, and then, there's Ashildr, who emerged herself as the Night Mayor. In this episode, The Doctor and his allies ventured to an alien world, hidden on a street in London, only to found out that the countdown planted on Rigsy's head is a death sentence set by Ashildr because of the crime he committed to the refugee community. This episode witnessed the final moments of The Doctor's companion, Clara, as she sacrificed herself to save Rigsy from his imminent execution by the raven.

It's a tragic moment to see one of The Doctor's beloved companions die for numerous circumstances but even with Clara's death, which we are going to mope it for a long time, it's time goes on for The Doctor as he teleports himself to another world. Where is heading now? You'll have to find out next week.

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