Saturday, December 12, 2015

Things we learned from the 2015 Tekken Finals

Photo: Official Bandai Namco US Instagram (@bandainamcous)

With the latest installment of the hard-hitting Tekken franchise, Tekken 7, is in full swing in the arcades and while we're still waiting for the PS4 version to arrive soon (yes, really), the best of Tekken gamers from around the globe sharpen their skills on playing Tekken 7 and then work their way up to this year's Tekken World Finals, where the grand winner will receive 3,000,000 Japanese Yen in cash and more.

We have learned that a gamer named Nobi from Japan has named as the grand champion of this year's Tekken finals after winning the final round against South Korean Tekken player knee, but that win is more than just experiencing the best of Tekken veterans blowing the competition on Tekken 7. There are some huge announcements happened in the World Finals and get this; Bandai Namco announced a major update on the Tekken 7 arcade game called FATED RETRIBUTION.

In the FATED RETRIBUTION update, not only new characters, outfits, and graphic updates are added to the mix but there is one special guest appearing on the latest update on Tekken 7. Yep, it's Akuma (Gouki) from the Street Fighter games and this ultimate baddie is raising hell on Tekken 7. You have been warned.

It's coming soon at your local arcades near you. Most Tekken fans can't contain their excitement over the major update on Bandai Namco's hard-hitting fighting franchise ever made and so are we.

So, GET READY FOR THE NEXT BATTLE, ladies and gentlemen.

Kalyeserye's aftermath of losing the mansion

Photo: Official Eat Bulaga
Facebook page
It was a sad day for Lola Nidora and her sisters as well as Yaya Dub because on the recent Kalyeserye segment on Eat Bulaga, the girls got evicted from their beloved mansion because of the dreadful court order. They packed themselves up alongside the Rogelios and they have left the mansion for good. With the mansion no longer part of Lola Nidora's life for now, the Kalye's Angels have ventured out to find a new home. Of course, even though Alden Richards' very busy in the Broadway Centrum, he remains faithful and trustworthy to Lola Nidora, her sisters, and Yaya Dub.

So, what will the lolas and Yaya Dub do now? Will they be able to find a new place called home? Will they be able to recover themselves after series of setbacks that dragged them down to their knees? Keep watching Eat Bulaga every weekdays for more Kalyeserye antics.

#BubbleGang - December 11, 2015

On the December 11, 2015 episode of Bubble Gang...

- Frankenstein gags

- Doing double.

- More Patok Taktiks are examined.

- Juancho Trivino takes on TSUGI O CHORVA!

- Staying outside? He will see about that...

- Every good star has a great stage-cousin.

- The not-so-ideal couple arrived at the reunion.


- Battle of the NGOs.



Friday, December 11, 2015

Driving Music (What is the name of the song on car commercial?) Vol. 72



Hi, person who's busy searching for commercial songs,

Due to a copyright claim, your search query has been blocked in some countries. This means it's time now for another round of DRIVING MUSIC, but it will be limited to my choosing.


Search query: hyundai tucson 2016 commercial song, jaguar commercial song, jeep renegade commercial song 2015, mercedes benz advert song 2015, mini cooper commercial song, nissan x trail advert song 2015, volvo commercial song freedom, 2015 ford fusion commercial song, acura commercial song wild horses
Includes: Audio content
Claimed by: the commercial itself

Why this can happen:
 - Your search query might contain copyrighted content.
 - Copyright owners can choose to block your query that contain their content.

10) SHE ~SENIOR DREAMS by 阿川泰子 - from the Isuzu Piazza Japanese commercial

9) Feeling Good by Avicii - from the Volvo USA XC90 "Our Idea of Luxury" commercial

8) Wild Horses by Bishop - from the Acura TLX commercial

7) Melody Fair by Bee Gees - from a 1995 Suzuki Alto Japanese commercial

6) Come Prima by Tony Dallara - from a 1991 Mitsubishi Minica Japanese commercial

5) Where Does My Heart Beat Now by Celine Dion - from a Mitsubishi Eterna commercial

4) The One and Only by Chesney Hawkes - from a Honda Integra Japanese commercial

3) Private Sunday by Casiopea - from a Daihatsu Charade Japanese commercial

2) Lost It To Trying by Son Lux - from a Nissan UK X-TRAIL "Your Story Starts Here" commercial

1) 愛にこだわれ  by 平井堅 - from a Toyo Tires Japanese commercial

Driving Music from Leopaul's Blog is the segment where solves every car enthusiasts' questions about the title of the song of car commercials...with the risk of MATCHED THIRD PARTY CONTENT on their status. Acknowledge or dispute, it's your choice.

Let's Do The News! (December 11, 2015)



- PAGASA said that the low pressure area monitored outside the PAR has been strengthened into a tropical depression, which will the Philippines this Saturday. To be called Nonoy, the tropical depression was located 1,440km east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur with max sustained winds of 55kph. It is likely to move west northwest at 20kph. PAGASA is expecting one more typhoon hitting the country before the year ends.

- The National Bureau of Investigation said that there is really a tanim-bala scam at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport but those behind it are not organized as a syndicate. The NBI's findings contained in its report was submitted to the Department of Justice as well as filing charges against six airport personnel, two Office for Transportation Security personnel, and four officers of the police Aviation Security Group in connection with the extortion scams.

- At the COP21 climate conference in PAris, the French Foreign Minister has presented a new draft agreement which requires most nations to submit reductions targets for greenhouse gas emissions once every five years and adopt measured to achieve their goals. It also allows developing nations to contribute resources voluntarily as well as financial assistance.

- To support the US-led airstrikes against the Islamic State militants in Syria, the German military sent two Panavia Tornado fighter jets, a tanker jet, and a transport aircraft with 40 advance troops on board at a Turkish air base near Syria.

- An American Islamic group in Washington received an envelope containing white powder, forcing most of the employees to evacuate temporarily from the group's headquarters. According to the Council on American-Islamic Relations, about 10 employees evacuated the office while police examined the powder, which found out to be harmless. The envelope even comes with a hate letter. Since the Paris attacks and the San Bernardino shootings, hatred on Muslims in America is becoming belligerent, even more belligerent is presidential candidate Donald Trump's anti-Islam remarks that sparked outrage.

- A British BMW dealer has sold a defective BMW M3 which is broadly similar to the one that Jeremy Clarkson used on the 22nd season of Top Gear several months ago.

- The last McLaren P1 hybrid hypercar has been produced. The 375th and the final P1 has roled of the production line.


- Shortly after the Return of the Roar TV special last month, Disney officially confirmed that The Lion Guard TV series will premiere this January 15th with the first episode where main character Kion faces off against a villainous crocodile Makuu, voiced by Blair Underwood.



- In case you missed the recent Eat Bulaga kalyeserye, the day of reckoning in Lola Nidora's mansion is here...and it struck on the dinner table where Lola Nidora, Tidora, Tinidora, Alden, and Yaya Dub spent their last lunch at. According to Lola Nidora, the court order revealed that...they're officially evicted from this mansion! Gulp... So, tune in tomorrow on Eat Bulaga and find out the aftermath of Lola Nidora, AlDub, and the gang's eviction from their mansion!

TTFN!!!

Thursday, December 10, 2015

Let's Do The News! (December 10, 2015)


- US President Barack Obama indirectly criticizes Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump for proposing a ban on Muslims entering the United States. Ever since the San Bernardino shootout last week, Americans are becoming weary about terrorism. A recent poll found out that 65% of likely Republican votes support Trump's proposal for banning Muslims. The Obama administration warned that repeated remarks against Muslims could deepen the divide in US society.

- Meanwhile, over 300,000 people in Great Britain have signed a petition to ban US Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump from visiting the country ever since his anti-Muslim remarks that grew more criticisms.

- Meanwhile, back to the San Bernardino shootings, an FBI official said that the couple behind the shootout last week was influenced by extremism years ago. It is revealed that Syed Rizwan Farook and his wife Tashfeen Malik were radicalized before they started dating each other online. Before they were engaged, the suspect couple were talking about jihad and martyrdom as early as the end of 2013.

- French authorities have identified the third suspect who died in the Parisian attacks last month. Based on the DNA test, the third attacker identified as Foued Mohamed-Aggad from the eastern city of Strasbourg. Aggad went to Syria with his brother and a group of friend in 2013. Most members of the group were arrested last year after returning to France.

- The Malacanang Palace is positive that most of the solons will approve the dormant Bangsamoro Basic Law before their December 16 Christmas break.

- The US Government turned over to the Philippines the first of over a hundred armored personnel carriers to boost the nation's poorly-armed forces. According to the US Embassy, the APC are being given at no charged following a request by the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The first 77 vehicles arrived Wednesday in Subic Bay while the remaining will arrive later this month.

- The Forest Pokemon Sceptile joins the roster in the latest update for Pokken Tournament. With its combination of speed and offense, Sceptile can launch an array of devastating attacks both physical and long-range. When its Mega Evolution's engaged, this is one heck of a Pokemon you'd really shouldn't mess with.



- Lovelivers, rejoice! Two new Love Live figures have been unveiled by Good Smile Company! First off, completing the range of μ's in their training outfit, here's a Nendoroid of Nico Yazawa in her training outfit. Order books are now open for her with her pricing starts at 3,241 Yen plus tax. She will arrive this June. Also, there's a figma of Maki Nishikino now open for pre-orders. She's priced at 5,370 Yen plus tax and arriving this June.

figma Maki Nishikino
Nendoroid Nico Yazawa
(Training outfit)

- A more lightweight Lotus Exige Sport 350 was unveiled with 112lbs of weight lost, resulting to a 0-60mph time of 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 170mph.

2016 Lotus Exige Sport 350

- In case you missed the recent Eat Bulaga kalyeserye, today marks the 21st weeksary of AlDub and what's the gift for AlDub? Of course, couple jackets! One for Alden and one for Yaya Dub! Sounds wonderful but doubts still ensue for Lola Nidora regarding yesterday's fiasco about getting evicted from her mansion this week. Lola Nidora has something to say tomorrow at her mansion but what important announcement we will expect? Tune in next time and find out!

TTFN!!!

There's something hidden in the Mona Lisa portrait



Looks like the world got shocked over the shocking discovery by a French scientist regarding what's hidden underneath the legendary Leonardo da Vinci painting of Mona Lisa.

An expert known as Pascal Cotte has spent the decade observing the hidden mystery behind the legendary Mona Lisa painting using science and technology, well, reflective light technology to be fairly exact. A reconstruction shows there was an hidden image of a sitter looking off to the side, which shows no trace of her enigmatic smile, which puzzled most art lovers for over five centuries.

The Louvre Museum, where the legendary painting was portrayed, have no comments as of now because his claims was not part of the scientific team. His claims regarding what's hidden behind the painting are controversial and have divided opinion among experts.

Comments? Well, it maybe as mysterious as the one we saw on The Da Vinci Code but it's even more bizarre than the City of Death arc of Classic Doctor Who. Anyone remember that?  Well, you get the idea.

Report: http://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-35031997

THE IDOLM@STER MUST SONGS

This is where the THE IDOLM@STER 10th Anniversary celebration come in full circle because 10 years of IDOLM@STER songs come together in a very special PSVita game made in collaboration with the iconic Taiko No Tatsujin rhythm games. This is THE IDOLM@STER MUST SONGS, a celebration of 10 years of IM@S songs come together in a very special Taiko No Tatsujin game for every IM@S veteran or newcomer will enjoy.

THE IDOLM@STER MUST SONGS
(Red Version)

THE IDOLM@STER MUST SONGS
(Blue Version)

Ideally, there are two versions of MUST SONGS, Red and Blue, and each version contains a different playlists commemorating 10 years of THE IDOLM@STER. The red version features the first IM@S songs recorded since its July 2005 debut till 2010 while the blue version features songs heard from the 2nd Vision era as well as heard from the anime series and live performances up to the present day. But either way, this Taiko no Tatsujin game gives players a brilliant way to discover the history of THE IDOLM@STER franchise and enjoy hit songs as heard from the franchise. There's also special appearances of rival idols such as 876 Pro's Dearly Stars as well as Jupiter and elite idol Leon as seen on One For All.

In Live Festival, there are different set to playlists to master and most of the playlists are heavily inspired from the games, anime series, and live events alike. Pick one and Dodonggadon like you always do in a Taiko no Tatsujin game. If you done well in any of the playlists, you'll receive in-game cash suitable to unlock playlists as well as purchasing some extras to customize this game from the coordinates, sound effects, and many many others. Keep increasing your Produce Rank and you can buy more and more items that will fit your liking. Kinda reminds you of Shiny Festa except a thousand times more manageable, I dare say?

Let's not keep this observation a bit longer, okay, but rest assured that MUST SONGS is the ultimate history lesson in the history of THE IDOLM@STER. Ever since its debut in 2005, THE IDOLM@STER has been transformed into one of Bandai Namco's most successful titles to date. From the long list of games, the anime series, the movie, the live events, the music CDs, no one comes close when it comes to the historical back catalog that made us salivated.

THE IDOLM@STER MUST SONGS is now available for PSVita for 5,700 Yen (plus tax).

Genesis EQ900

Genesis, once used as Hyundai's premium saloon, has now spawned into a standalone luxury brand in the same way Citroen did with DS Automobiles, showing that it's the ideal moment to separate the men from the boys when it comes to cars. Yep, separating luxury cars from the mainstream line of cars in the pursuit of dominance. With the so-called "Genesis Motors" now a luxury car brand for Hyundai Motor Company, the first Genesis car in the lineup is the flagship replacement to the Hyundai Equus. It's called the EQ900.

2016 Genesis EQ900

Known to be South Korea's take on MB's S-Class and BMW's 7-Series, the new Genesis EQ900 emphasizes sovereignty over style, and from every angle, you can see that its sovereign feel as a flagship saloon truly matches the dynamism similar to European premium full-size saloons. You can really tell whoever has one does mean business on the city streets and on the open road. Because it focuses on Genesis' "Human-Centered Luxury" philosophy, the new EQ900 promises to breathe a new life out of the luxury car stakes, delivering cutting-edge technology and a more lively driving feel to indulge with.

2016 Genesis EQ900 interior

So, what to expect about the EQ900's design? From every angle, the design looks rather excellent for a premium saloon made by the Koreans and while you can expect a hint of Hyundai on the front side, the rear side is somewhat similar to the S-Class or rather a Cadillac XTS but anyway, that design adds a striking feel to the EQ900 and as for the interior, it's well crafted and well luxurious. From an array of gadgets implemented on all sides, a Nappa leather, wooden trim, Lexicon Sound System, and many other conveniences in store, the EQ900 is well-qualified to be a chauffeur-driven vehicle if you can afford to hire a driver as well as being a car to be driven by yourself. No one can resist the temptation of the EQ900's comforts once you step inside.

2016 Genesis EQ900

The Genesis EQ900 is available with three different engine choices ranging from V6 3.3-liter T-GDI (370PS); V6 3.8-liter GDI (315PS); or V8 5.0-liter GDI (425PS), all mated with an 8-speed automatic with lock-up torque converter. The V8 model (which is also used on the Quantum model of the Kia K9) can go to 0-100kph in 5.7 seconds thanks to its massive power and torque, but the first-ever 3.3L V6 T-GDi engine is what really keeps the EQ900 very amused and because this is turbocharged, it will take 0-100kph in 6.2 seconds and capable of 80-120kph overtaking maneuvers in 13.0 seconds. That sounds like a lot but with the automatic gearbox at hand, looks like it's going to be a tough slob on the long drive ahead.

Of course, this is still a rear-wheel drive saloon, but the EQ900 is also offered with HTRAC all-wheel drive system, which electronically controls torque split between the axles depending on which driving conditions the driver is on, providing a well-stabled ride on slippery conditions and allows the driver to select different driving modes, Smooth on rainy weather we're having but not brilliant in terms of thrashing about because of being too grippy.

Like newer Hyundais of today, the new EQ900 is well-honed at the Nurburgring to deliver unprecedented handling similar to European premium saloons and thanks to its multi-link suspension paired with either High-Performance Dampers or the Genesis Adaptive Control Suspension system, the EQ900 feels livelier to drive with and well suitable enough for escaping conflicts while having a wealthy client at the back seat. Sounds fit for a car chase scene in a spy movie but not now because let's move on to safety.

Because of the "Human Centered Luxury" ideology, the safety features offered on the EQ900 promise to be less compromising from its rigid body frame, which is the strongest in its class, Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with Pedestrian Detection, Active Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and Driver Attention Alert, to Smart High Beam Assist and Around View Monitor.

2016 Genesis EQ900
The EQ900, the first of the Genesis luxury brand from Hyundai, starts at 71,700,000 to 114,900,000 Korean Won (estimated $61,000 to $97,200), which sounds very expensive for a Korean-made car of that size but it's surprisingly less expensive than the recent BMW 7-Series.

This is just the start because, by next year, it will be sold as the Genesis G90 overseas, including in major markets like North America, China, and the Middle East. The Genesis lineup will be expanded next year with the facelifted second-generation Hyundai Genesis rebranded as the Genesis G80, made to compete against the next BMW 5-Series and MB E-Class, as well as Genesis' take on BMW's 3-Series and MB's C-Class called G70. A luxury crossover and a replacement to the Genesis Coupe will come out later and all Genesis models will be launched by the end of the decade. This is going to be one heck of an ambitious goal set up by the Korean automotive giant and we can't hardly wait what surprises will pull on the sleeves of Hyundai's luxury Genesis Motors brand.

Available colors: Marble White, Platinum Silver, Gold Scent, Fine Titanium, Cosmo Grey, Neptune Blue, Tan Brown, and Onyx Black.

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

Fourth-Generation Toyota Prius (ZVW50/51)

When the first Toyota Prius was launched in late 1997, the term hybrid has been introduced in the world of motoring and thanks to the Toyota Prius, more and more cars have gone under the hybrid green route. All thanks to the Japanese because they were the first people to create a hybrid car for the masses and with over a million Toyota hybrids sold worldwide, over 50% of the Toyota cars sold worldwide are Priuses. Now, here we are, 18 years later, the hybrid that has been the pride of Japan has been regenerated in its fourth generation glory. Although we are not glorious about the latest regeneration, more and more people are expected to get their green-minded hands on the brand new Prius.

2016 Toyota Prius

Reflecting on today's topics ahead, this latest-generation Prius is built today, ready for tomorrow, because it features new and somewhat noticing features that will keep its environmentally friendly credentials afloat for green-minded people who want to find a better eco-car to live with on a day-to-day basis but whatever, since this is a byproduct of Japanese culture in Toyota's right.

2016 Toyota Prius interior
2016 Toyota Prius interior

First up, let's take a look at the design, and while this is rather unpleasant by some, the Mirai-inspired design still fits to its "here today, ready for tomorrow" ideology. Of course, you would definitely don't want to turn up on posh destinations except in areas where people tend to park hybrid cars because if you parked up in areas filled with fast cars, you're like a nerd getting bullied by jocks in the shower room. See what I mean? That design really speaks a lot for someone nerdy and asthmatic. As for the interior, there goes the same Prius stuff as seen on the previous model. You have seating for five people, clever instrumental panel, complicating shift lever, and nothing to toy around while you're inside.

2016 Toyota Prius

Time to get earful on this one because the new Prius is the first to incorporate the new Toyota New Global Architecture or TNGA and while this new platform sounds a lot earful than an average Tenga toy under your bed, it promises to be a wide-reaching structure that can be accommodated with future models similar to Volkswagen Group's MQB platform but this is no time for VW talks as well as their recent scandal because we're mentioning this byproduct of Japanese culture here and with the TNGA platform at hand, it promises to be more stiffer and more accessible when combined with its front struts and rear double wishbones. Although not what you called sporty on the handling department, it feels not so bad to turn it on the bends or the roundabouts.

With front-wheel drive a standard issue for the new Prius, it comes with an optional e-Four for the very first time in this new model and what does this mean? With e-Four, the new Prius feels more weather-ready for the job at hand and there are now two electric motors bolted on its 1.8L 2ZR-FXE petrol engine. Of course, in some models, be it front or four-wheel drive, the old-fashioned Nickel Metal battery is still in operational but in fuel-efficient models, it's been fitted, for the first time, a lithium-ion battery. The same thing that was used on its Prius α MPV. With the Li-ion battery, 2XR-FXE, and electric motor at hand, as well as its traditional CVT gearbox, fuel economy is expected to reach up to 40.8km/L based on Japan's JC08 Mode standards. This is the highest for a hybrid car in terms of fuel consumption and all that hard work really payed off to bring the new Prius a class apart in the world of hybrids.

For safety purposes, the new Prius comes with Toyota Safety Sense P, as seen on the recently facelifted Land Cruiser 200. The Toyota Safety Sense P features a more high-tech millimeter wave radar which detects pedestrians and vehicles alike. It even comes with Radar Cruise Control which detects preceding vehicles and determines their speed. It will adjust its speed accordingly to maintain a safe distance between the cars. Other safety tech offered on the new Prius includes Intelligent Clearance Sonar, Simple Intelligent Parking Assist, Driving Safety Support Systems, and Connected Vehicles Support Systems. Of course, the new Prius comes with ITS Connect and it uses Japan's ITS frequency to receive and share data between external infrastructure and other cars via vehicle-to-infrastructure communication (Right-turn Collision Caution, Red Light Caution, Signal Change Advisory) and vehicle-to-vehicle communication (Communicating Radar Cruise Control, Emergency Vehicle Notification).

The new Prius starts from 2,429,018 to 3,394,145 Yen and because this is a hybrid, it's well-qualified for Japan's eco-car subsidies. If you're willing to buy one now, be advised that the waitlist for the new model is extremely high and it will take a lot of months to have one delivered at your doorstep. Anyway, the new Prius has a lot of potential of being the pride of Japan as well as eco-minded individuals. Although this is not what you called a fun car to drive, expect this to be your last resort when you are a celebrity who are financially burdened with debt or a granny whose mansion's about to be repossessed.

Available colors: Super White II, White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, Grey Metallic, Attitude Black Mica, Emotional Red, Steel Blonde Metallic, Thermo-Tect Lime Green, and Dark Blue Mica Metallic.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Let's Do The News! (December 9, 2015)


- The COMELEC's Second Division declared presidential aspirant Rizalito David as a nuisance candidate. David, once lost the senatorial elections two years ago, filed the disqualification case against Senator Grace Poe before the Senate Electoral Tribunal. COMELEC cancelled his COC for president for the May 2016 elections.

- Business tycoon and front-runner in Republican presidential nomination, Donald Trump, is drawing criticisms not just the White House but also fellow Republicans over his call to ban Muslims from entering the United States.

- The top officials have almost agreed that a new accord will refer to the goal of limiting global warming to below 1.5 degrees Celsius during the ongoing COP21 climate conference in Paris, France.

- Today marks the 35th death anniversary of former member of The Beatles John Lennon. On December 8th, 1980, Lennon was shot dead by a fan in front of his home near Central Park. He was 40 years old.

- An American fast-attack submarine arrived at Subic Bay last week as part of its Indo-Asia-Pacific deployment. The LA-class USS Tucson submarine is one of the stealthiest and most advanced submarines ever made and the 150 personnel will conduct missions and showcase the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet while in the country.

- Police are investigating incident in which a pig's head was left outside a mosque in the state of Pennsylvania. Islamic culture deems the pig to be unclean and media reports told that the head of the pig was thrown at the mosque on Monday morning. CCTV shown footage that someone throwing it from the window of a car as it passed the mosque on Sunday night.

- Porsche officially green-lit production of the Mission E electric sports car.

- Mercedes-Benz teases their upcoming E-Class full model change with some interior footage.



- Action star Robin Padilla returns to ABS-CBN after signing a two-year exclusive contract.

- In case you missed the recent Eat Bulaga kalyeserye, yes. It's true! Lola Nidora exposed to the world that her mansion is officially officially repossessed and they only have a week to live in! Oh no! With her mansion get repossessed by Lola Babah by next week, what fate will happen to the Lolas as well as AlDub? Tune in next time and find out!

TTFN!!!

DS Automobiles Nouvelle DS5 et Nouvelle DS4 gamme

Citroen's DS lineup has officially left the family and spawned into a standalone luxury brand known as DS Automobiles and while this is done in honor of the DS's 60th year as well as five years of the DS range that started with the DS3, the new DS Automobiles brand ignites the brand identity's "Spirit of Avant-Garde" to their premium range of vehicles sold not just in Europe but in countries including China as well.

2016 DS Automobiles DS5

This is where we start with this. Of course, this is the facelifted Citroen DS5 but like it said, the new model is the first of the DS model not to wear the Citroen badge on it and since this is no longer a Citroen, it's now considered itself as a full-fledged DS car in its own right because with this car, the DS Automobiles brand is born and the spirit of avant-garde kicked in.

Thanks to its newly updated exterior, the new DS 5 is truly a flagship in its own right because from every angle, there's a fair hint of European luxury sprinkled around and without a hint of Citroen badge in sight, this car is well-groomed, well-tailored, and very posh to live on the road. Same goes to the interior as well because getting in has the same level as what you expect from a luxury German saloon car but this isn't a German saloon car, this is a French luxo-barge and who can't blame them?

It sure is a luxury saloon in its own right but at prices start at 29,550 Euros TTC, it's surprisingly accessible to buy one as well. Under the hood, the new DS 5 offers a choice of either a 2.0L turbocharged petrol engine, 1.6L BlueHDi diesel, 2.0L BlueHDi diesel, or a Hybrid4 powertrain with a 2.0L diesel engine connected to an electric motor. Most of the engines are Euro 6 compliant and depending on the engine types, it can be mated with either a 6-speed manual or automatic.

Although not a sporty car to drive, the new DS 5 is a comfortable cruiser suitable for the trips to the country club or a five-star hotel and you can really tell how luxurious the ride really is just by feeling it.

So, while the new DS 5 signalled the birth of the DS Automobiles, let's introduce to the new DS 4, which is also no longer a Citroen-branded hatchback but part of the new DS Automobiles brand.

2016 DS Automobiles DS 4
2016 DS Automobiles DS 4 Crossback

Here it is, the new DS 4 and now it spawned an additional crossover model called the DS 4 Crossback. Now, there are two DS 4 models to choose from but which ever DS 4 you choose, they're still the same thing and if anyone recalled driving the former Citroen DS4 in the distant past, some might recalled that it's far comparable to its Alfa Romeo Giulietta rival because it might have plenty of style but no cider. Same thing goes to the new Crossback model because while this maybe a crossover variant, the experience of driving one can be comparable to listening to Crossover FM on the radio. All that jazz, I dare say.

The range of engines include a 1.2L PureTech 130, 1.6L THP 165/200, 1.6L e-HDi 115/BlueHDi 120, and a 2.0L BlueHDi 150/180 and whichever engines you choose, it can be mated with either a 6-speed manual or automatic.

The new DS 4 starts at 23,700 Euros TTC while the Crossback model starts at 27,200 Euros TTC.

So, there we are, the new DS models may have christened the birth of the DS Automobiles brand but some people remain skeptical about Citroen's move of spawning the DS as a stand-alone luxury brand in the same way Lexus is to Toyota, but whatever the heck is, let's wish the new DS Automobiles the best of luck putting the Spirit of Avant-Garde to the motoring public.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

Tuesday, December 8, 2015

Jubilee of Mercy: Opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter's Basilica

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

The Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy is the first Extraordinary Jubilee year since "The Great Jubilee" of the year 2000 under the rule of Blessed John Pope II and this Holy Year of Mercy, which expresses God's mercy for all, has commenced with the opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter's Basilica.

Pope Francis opens the Holy Door of St.
Peter's Basilica (Screencap courtesy of CTV)

Tens of thousands of Catholic pilgrims have been gathered in Rome as they witness Pope Francis opening the Holy Door in the walls of St. Peter's Basilica, The Pope pronounced the words "Aperite mihi Porta lustitae", which is Latin for the words "open to me the gates of justice" and the doors are open.

Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI was present in the opening ceremony as well.

By Tuesday night, the exterior of St. Peter's Basilica will be projected with images by some of the world's environmental photographers in an initiative linked to the ongoing COP21 climate conference in Paris, France.

The Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy will continue until the 20th of November, 2016 and this Jubilee was called by the pontiff with the ultimate goal of allowing the Catholic Church to become the witness of mercy.

The next Holy Doors will be opened at the Basilicas of St. John Lateran and of the Cathedrals of the World as well as the Holy Doors of the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls on the 13th of December, 2015. The Holy Door of the Basilica of Saint Mary Major will be opened on New Year's Day 2016.

Let's Do The News! (December 8, 2015)



- The Senate has lowered their conditional cash transfer funds from 64 billion to 56 billion pesos. The Malacanang asked the Senate to reconsider its decision to slash funds for the CCT program next year. The Presidential Communication Office Secretary Herminio "Sonny" Coloma Jr. said that the Palace trust that their legislators will consider the implications of their decisions on the CCT beneficiaries who are the most important stakeholders in their efforts to achieve inclusive growth.

- The Office of the Ombudsman said it found probable cause to indict Senator JV Ejercito and other San Juan City officials over their questionable firearms deal.

- As the run-off voting for the French council elections will reach the second round on Sunday, French Prime Minister Manuel Valls urged the governing party supporters to block the anti-immigrant National Front far-right party from winning the elections. His message came Monday night after the National Front won the most ballots in the first-round voting for 17 regional elections. He warned that the National Front will divide France by trying to pit people against each other.

- According to the FBI, the couple behind the San Bernardino shooting last week had practiced target shooting just days before the attack. Reports told that Syed Rizwan Farook and his wife, Tashfeen Malik, had visited a shooting range in LA. 

- Eagles of Death Metal, a rock band that was onstage at the Bataclan Hall last month during the Parisian attacks has given its first performance in the French capital since the attacks. The band appeared at a concert alongside U2 on Monday evening in Paris.

- Hyundai teases their first ever hybrid model called the Ioniq, which is set to be launched next year with a choice of hybrid, electric, or PHEV powertrains.

- Fans of the KanColle anime series will be happy that the figma of Fubuki, as seen on the TV series, is now open for pre-orders! This figma is priced at 5,833 Yen (plus tax) and she'll be arriving to you this May. Those who pre-ordered at the GOOD SMILE ONLINE SHOP will receive a special facial expression just for her.

figma Fubuki Animation ver.

- A yukata version of Chris Yukine from STEINS;GATE series has been unveiled by Good Smile Company and orders are now open for booking for 10,000 Yen plus tax. She'll be arriving to your doorsteps this May.

Chris Yukine yukata version

- In case you missed the recent Eat Bulaga kalyeserye, after moments of shopping, Tidora and Tinidora bought some magnifying glasses to help decode the hidden message written on the ring. With Alden, Yaya Dub, and Lola Nidora present, the use of magnifying glasses decoded what the ring said. It says... "Forever. Bawal Ibenta/Isangla". Yep, this ring cannot be sold elsewhere and be taken to the pawnshops, which is a shame that the De Explorer sisters are concerned that they're still broke and couldn't afford to repay the debt for their mansion. Just then, the riding in tanders arrived with the letter for Lola Nidora. Lola Nidora read it but what it's said on the letter? Tune in next time and find out!

TTFN!!!

BMW 2-Series Gran Tourer vs. VW Touran II

Last year, BMW shocked the world with their first-ever front-wheel drive recreational vehicle, the 2-Series Active Tourer, and while this front-wheel drive BMW shocked us because its dynamics are not what you expect for a BMW, this MPV is made for breadwinners and soccer moms in mind. Be warned though that this MPV is just getting started because BMW will soon plague the lineup with some front-wheel drive cars soon and now, there's another front-wheel drive Bimmer spawned to the mix.

2016 BMW 2-Series Gran Tourer

At first glance, this is just like the BMW 2-Series Active Tourer but now, it's longer and added two more seats on the inside. This is the new 2-Series Gran Tourer and this seven-seater version feels...hmmm...so all right for a family mover. When people drove the Active Tourer last year, most of the comments seem to be all right because even though it's a front-wheel drive BMW that every fan in the world wouldn't want one in their collection, it's a well-behaved, well-mannered multipurpose passenger vehicle that is well suited for family use. One clever joke I read from the pages of history that with cars like these, you can carry more girls than your Lamborghini, and the case is true for the Gran Tourer because this is a seven-seater MPV that has decent legroom, decent space at the boot, and decent choice of engines.

Engine choices include a turbocharged 1.5L petrol engine, turbocharged 2.0L petrol engine, 1.5L turbo diesel engine, and a 2.0L turbo diesel engine, and depending on engine choices, it can be mated with either a 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, and an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Sure, like the Active Tourer, the Gran Tourer is utilized he same UKL1 platform as the new Mini, and thanks to the fact of being a front-wheel drive MPV, the handling is pretty much like this...

2016 Volkswagen Touran

The handling of the BMW Gran Tourer has about a similar handling characteristic as this MPV in store; the all-new VW Touran. Yes, this is just a VW Golf underneath but the Touran, like the Gran Tourer, is a seven-seater MPV with a choice of either a 1.4 TSi or a 1.6 TDi engine but let's keep it short about the handling because this is definitely how the new BMW Gran Tourer behaves because just like that, it's a front-wheel drive MPV that tends to handle like a granny holding a grocery cart for a few hours now. They don't feel sporty even with clever suspension design, they feel comfortable in the feels of passengers, and above all, they're well behaved to be people's cars for everyday use.

Both the new Gran Tourer and the new Touran are behaved to be good cars that not to be thrashed around the streets but what differentiates them both is the pricing because the Gran Tourer starts at 26,950 Euros while the new Touran starts at 23,350 Euros, three grand more, but either way, you sure you wouldn't want to drive either of those unless you are trapped in the world of married couples growing up with kids. If you did, sorry to say, you have to resort driving in either of those soccer mom cars.

Monday, December 7, 2015

Let's Do The News! (December 7, 2015)



- US President Barack Obama made a speech to the Oval Office regarding the issues of terrorism. He said that terrorism has evolved into a new phase attacks hatched at home by extremists poisoning the minds of killers already on American soil. This recent speech came three weeks after the Parisian attacks that killed 130 people and four days after the deadly shootout at San Bernardino, California.

- The recent French regional elections shown that a far right party known as the National Front, is showing a strong presence, although no party has secured a majority in any of electoral districts. It was the first elections occurred since the Parisian attacks last month. The second round of the elections will occur this Sunday. According to the Interior Ministry, the National Front anti-immigration, far right party, gained 28% of the total votes while the center-right Republicans led by former president Nicolas Sarkozy had 27% of the votes and the coalition led by President Francois Hollande's Socialist Party scored 23% of the votes.

- The eastern secular government and the western Islamic government of Libya have agreed to form a unified government, bringing an end to divisions in the country. The two factions announced a basic agreement at a news conference in Tunisia after two days of negotiations mediated by the Tunisian government. A committee of five representatives from each faction will be set up to select a prime minister and that a unified government will be formed within two weeks. An election will be held every two years but it requires both of the factions' approvals.

- Senator Grace Poe filed a motion for reconsideration to COMELEC to reverse the decision of its Second Division to disqualify her in the May 2016 elections.

- The COMELEC warned the public about a possible cancellation of next year's elections if the Supreme Court fails to lift the temporary restraining order on their "No Bio, No Boto" campaign.

- Huge announcements in the world of PlayStation had been made during the PlayStation Experience 2015 including a beta for next year's Uncharted 4: A Thief's End as well as the addition of new character in the upcoming Street Fighter V, and many other good news. With the imminent launch of the PlayStation VR next year, new titles with VR compatibility have been announced such as Eagle Flight, The Modern Zombie Taxi Co., 100ft Robot Golf, Psychonauts in the Rhombus of Ruin, Rez Infinite, Ace Combat 7, and Golem.

- General Motors' Buick has confirmed that their upcoming Envision midsize crossover will be US-bound next year and made in China.

- The new Mazda Roadster (MX-5) ND has been named as 2015-2016 Japan Car of the Year. That's another win for Mazda thanks to their revolutionary SKYACTIV Technology that scored numerous JCOTY wins since the CX-5 crossover in 2012 and the Demio (Mazda 2) compact hatchback in 2014.

2016 Mazda Roadster

- In case you missed the recent Eat Bulaga kalyeserye, oh no! Looks like the ring that was once lost is missing again. Now, where did Yaya Dub put the ring that Alden gave it to her since their rendezvous at Enchanted Kingdom last Saturday? Happily, however, it's Doktora de Explorer to the rescue as she gave Yaya Dub a special medicine that will help her remember where did she put her ring. The result...she hid the ring on her left ear! Case closed...but, there's a hidden message written on the ring? What does it said? Tune in next time and find out!

TTFN!!!

Sunday, December 6, 2015

Doctor Who S09 Finale

Doctor Who S09 Finale

Well, it had to happened. The finale of the current season of Doctor Who, titled Hell Bent, sees The Doctor in his home planet of Gallifrey as he tries to set things right, figure out the Hybrid presence, and in due course, avert the death of Clara Oswald. Of course, since he summoned the Clara Oswald that she was going to die, he stirred some chaos against The General and the other Gallifreyan soldiers, while making their way to the database.

As they make it to the database loaded with numerous enemies chained in wires, The Doctor managed to hijacked a working TARDIS and travelled alongside Clara to the end of time itself where he made a fateful encounter with Ashildr, or better known to her as Me.

With The Doctor confronting Ashildr...errr...Me, it is revealed that the Hybrid that was once prophesied was none other than, well, you guessed, The Doctor himself! Now, how come he didn't realized in the very beginning?

As truths come by, he wanted to save Clara by erasing her memories using the neuron block he obtained from the depths of Gallifrey but the only person who lost the memories at the flick of the block was The Doctor. He passed out and zapped into a mysterious place.

Of course, you may remember that the American diner we saw in the episode looks fairly familiar to the one we saw at the start of the sixth season four years ago but for an even bigger treat in store in the finale, the original TARDIS interior as seen when the first Doctor Who began in 1963 makes an appearance when The Doctor hijacked one to save Clara.

Now, the TARDIS that was recently hijacked by The Doctor is now under Ashildr and Clara's hands and as for The Doctor, back to the real police box-shaped TARDIS he truly set foot and in the end of the episode, a brand new sonic screwdriver was unveiled. Yes. it's brand new and very bluish.

Check out the BTS clip on how the Twelfth Doctor's new Sonic Screwdriver is made:



This new look makes us extremely jealous but how will that new look perform? We'll just have to wait till Christmas Day 2015 when The Husbands of River Song takes place. Oh and expect another sonic gadget in the Christmas special as well!



Now, some more BTS from the Season 9 ender with Maisie Williams, who played Ashildr...errr...Me in the show.



Of course, with Jenna Coleman's time as Clara is well and truly over, some BTS clips highlighting Jenna's life in the TARDIS.



That's it for Season 9 of BBC's Doctor Who but The Doctor will return in The Husbands of River Song this Christmas season. We are getting extremely jealous over the new look of The Twelfth Doctor's sonic screwdriver but for now, time for some well-deserved rest.

μ's Final Love Live event has announced

μ's Final Love Live

If any of you managed to watch the whole Love Live! The School Idol Movie last summer, chances are this would be the last time to see the ever-famous school idol unit that saved Otonokizaka High from imminent closure, μ's, but we were wrong. There's still more μ's fun left for us, Love Livers, to enjoy and now, we come to this; the Final Love Live for μ's. This is kinda sad for us, Love Livers, to see it but that's okay because their last hurrah will the best μ's experience to remember forever.

First off, select theaters across Japan will feature the best of Love Live School Idol Project from the 10th of January to the 26th of March, 2016. From their live performances, the two anime seasons, and The School Idol Movie, they're going to showcase the best of Love Live at select cinemas.

On the 12th of December to the 30th of January, 2016, Bandai Channel and Nicovideo will stream the best of μ's live concerts from their First LoveLive! 2011 concert up to μ's Go→Go! LoveLive! 2015 ~Dream Sensation!~ concert.

In the 2nd of March, 2016, μ's final single will be released and while we don't know what's going to be the name of the final μ's song, it's going to be the ultimate that will end all μ's songs in the catalog.

Then, three new novelizations are coming at bookstores from February to March 2016, such as Love Live! School Idol Memories, Love Live! The School Idol Movie Dream Days★, and Love Live! School Idol Diary featuring Honoka Kousaka and Kotori Minami.

And it all ends with μ's Final Love Live concert held at the 31st of March to the 1st of April, 2016 in the Tokyo Dome. This is going to be the last hurrah every Love Livers will be remembered for.

With the story of μ's well and truly over, the Love Livers are glad that they have experienced the best of μ's since this project began five years ago and catapulted its way to becoming one of the most successful franchises in the world that led everyone fighting to get their products be known to μ's.

URL: http://www.lovelive-anime.jp/otonokizaka/sp_arigatou.html

Angelia Ong from the PH wins Miss Earth 2015

Image: The Philippine Star


When it comes to the world of beauty pageants, seems that only a handful of Filipinas make it to the summit and for this year's Miss Earth, one Filipina stood out from the rest as Angelia Ong, Miss Earth Philippines, won the coveted title in a beauty pageant held at the Marx Halle in Vienna, Austria. She defeated most of the competitors including Dayanna Grageda from Australia, Brittany Payne from the USA, and Thiessa Sickert from Brazil.

This isn't the first time this Filipina won Miss Earth, though. In 2008, Karla Henry won the title while last year, Jamie Herrell was the winner.

Report: http://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2015/12/06/1529713/philippiness-angelia-ong-miss-earth-2015