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Thursday, November 28, 2013

TOP 10 MOST POPULAR TAGS ON INSTAGRAM

Instagram hashtags can also be surprisingly effective in fueling content discovery. Here are the ten most popular tags used by Instagrammers. 

1. #love
2. #instagood
3. #me
4. #cute
5. #tbt (Throwback Thursday)
6. #photooftheday
7. #instamood
8. #beautiful
9. #picoftheday
10. #girl


SOURCE: http://readwrite.com/2013/01/25/top-10-most-popular-instagram-tags

TOP 10 FOREIGN VISITORS IN THE PHILIPPINES

The Philippines has been considered as one of the favorite tourist destination in Asia because the Filipino is well-known for its hospitality, people can converse in English and aside from that, the country is known because of the many beautiful tourist spots and beaches that most foreign people were attracted to. The country has met a lot of global economic slump but still a number of tourists came to visit and here are some of them.

1. SOUTH KOREANS  

Majority of Korean visitors are students on study tours and some visit during the first and last quarters of the year to escape the harsh winter months in Korea but the major reason is because of the proximity of the Philippines to South Korea, the tropical climate, the low-cost of housing and quality education particularly in the English language are major incentives for them to visit the country.

2. JAPANESE  

The reasons why the Japanese visited the country is because of the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines, the centuries-old histories between the two countries and the attracting diving sites are great lures for them to come and visit but the most enticing attraction is the abundance of fresh seafood because the Japanese love to eat them.

3. AMERICANS  

The Americans have been present in the Philippines for a long period of time and they are one of the major visitors in the country annually. Americans are adventurous and loves to explore the beauty of the Philippines from local culture, eco-tourism, the beaches, the local cuisine and the variety of water sports and competitions.

4. TAIWANESE  

Taiwanese came to stay for their wedding and honeymoon and most of them love the beaches, numerous dive sites and various golf ranges and because of that, the Philippines is being positioned as a cheaper alternative to Hawaii. Availability of English languages school attracts the Taiwanese to come and visit.

5. AUSTRALIANS  

Australians loves a variety of indoor and outdoor sports that’s why Philippines become a well-known destination for them particularly with the introduction of surfing, wakeboarding and various water sports competitions. Fantastic dive sites also interests them.

6. GERMANS  

The Germans started bigger excursions in the country because they wanted to see the beauty of the Philippine coral reefs, the underwater flora and fauna, the numerous dive sites and the quality and variety of cuisine that the Philippines offer.

7. BRITISH  

Bird sanctuaries attract the British because they are very interested in bird watching and some places particularly in the Visayan region where most of the local and migratory birds stay there longer.

8. CHINA (Including HONGKONG)  

The Chinese are very interested in our natural heritage sites and they discovered the love for diving because of different fantastic dive sites in the country, but the major reason of their existence is the links with the Chinese community in the Philippines, the economic trade relations and the opening of more direct flights to tourist destinations around the country are very good incentives for them.

9. RUSSIANS  

Russians wants to escape the extreme cold months in their country came here to enjoy the tropical climate, sample adventure packages and go shopping. The marketing efforts of the Philippine Tourism Authority to offer tourism packages and bilateral travel arrangements finally pay off.


10. VIETNAMESE  


The sprawling supermalls that we have here in the Philippines is the major attraction for the Vietnamese because there are no big shopping malls in Ho Chi Minh City and most of them go to other countries to shop for particular goods. They are now looking for goods with better quality and much trendier.


SOURCE: http://trifter.com/asia-pacific/philippines/top-ten-foreign-visitors-in-the-philippines/

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

TOP 10 FRATERNITIES IN THE PHILIPPINES

1. Tau Gamma Phi

2. Alpha Phi Omega

3. Alpha Theta Omega

4. Alpha Phi Epsilon

5. Gamma Epsilon Fraternity

6. Sigma Rho

7. Alpha Sigma Omega

8. Zeta Phi Omega Fraternity

9. Alpha Kappa Rho

10. Scout Royale Brotherhood


TOP 10 TROPICAL FRUITS IN THE PHILIPPINES

The tropical climate of the Philippines makes it possible for the soil to grow some delicious exotic fruits. Most of these exotic fruits are of South American origin and brought here by the West Indies, Spanish or the Americans. These heavenly fruits can be found fresh in the local market for cheap prices. Some of the fruits mentioned are only available seasonally.


1. PHILIPPINE MANGOES

Undeniably Philippine mangoes are the sweetest and juiciest in the world. Recorded in the 1995 World Guinness Book of Records as the sweetest fruit. The sweetest mangoes come from the province of Zambales and Guimaras in IloIlo.

There is a wide variety of mangoes in the Philippines but the most popular and the sweetest is the "Kalabaw" variety. Locals eat unripe green mangoes with bagoong (shrimp paste) although this maybe an usually acquired taste. Green mangoes are great with vodka as cocktails!


2. RAMBUTAN

Sweet and juicy when fresh. Rambutan literally means hairy caused by the 'hair' that covers this fruit.


3. AVOCADO

Very refreshing as fruit shake. Try if you can find avocado flavored ice-cream in the local groceries. Arceis a good brand of local ice cream. They use local fruits as flavor. Avocado is cheap in the Philippines. 


4. LANSONES

Sweet and succulent little round fruits. The sweetest lanzones come from the province of Camiguin, where they hold an annual festival celebrating the lanzones fruit.


5. DURIAN

The king of Tropical fruits found it's way in the Philippines through our neighboring countries. Known for its large size and unique aroma. Some people regard the durian as fragrant; others find the aroma overpowering and offensive. The 19th-century British naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace famously described its flesh as "a rich custard highly flavoured with almonds". The province of Davao in Mindanao is home to durian farms.


6. LANGKA (JACKFRUIT)

When ripe this fruit is very sweet and has a very aromatic flavor. It also widely used as cooking ingredient for local desserts such as ginataan and turon.


7. ATIS (SUGAR APPLE)

Very sweet and creamy. It's a little bit of effort to eat this fruit as they have a lot of seeds. The fruit flesh is sweet, white to light yellow, and resembles and tastes like custard. The edible portion coats the seeds generously; a bit like the gooey portion of a tomato seed. Sugar-apple has a very distinct, sweet-smelling fragrance.


8. CHICO (SAPODILLA)

It's aroma can be compared to beer but don't let it fool you for it is tasty. The flavor is exceptionally sweet with what can be described as a malty flavor. Originally known to have come from the West Indies.


9. WATERMELON (PAKWAN)

Though widely available in many parts of the world nothing beats the refreshing taste of a succulent, sweet and juicy watermelon in the summer months.


10. SANTOL (WILD MANGOSTEEN)

Available during the summer season. The taste is sweet and sour. The bigger variety called "Bangkok" is sweeter, the smaller variety is on the sour end. It is also used as souring agent for some Filipino dishes like sinigang.


TOP 10 SCARIEST MYTHICAL CREATURES IN THE PHILIPPINES

10. DUWENDE (GOBLIN/ELF/DWARF)

They are small, child-like creatures who dwell in houses, trees, underground, mounds, and rural areas.Duwende usually comes out at noon for about an hour, and at night. They can be good or mischievous, depending on how you treat them. Thus, the expression “Tabi, tabi po” is often used to give respect to the presence of duwendes. 


9. WHITE LADY

They’re wandering spirits of women who died of injustice (victims of rape, holdup,kidnapping, etc.) and seeking for revenge/closure. Depicted in a white dress, a white lady sometimes they change into black or red, depending on mood and season. Feel their presence with their hair-raising wails and weightless roaming. Their favorite spots are houses, roads, and at the backseat of cars. Sometimes you’d also see them through your rearview mirror, when you’re driving alone at night. 


8. KAPRE

Tall, dark, and rather filthy giants whose hobby is hiding atop large trees (preferably old mango or acacia) and smoke rolls of cigar. (Common cause of death? TB/pneumonia) Their pastime is to scare children and vacationers away. If you find yourself stuck in a place and just going around in circles, you might have been played by the Kapre. In such case, remove your top and reverse it before wearing it on again.


7. SIRENA AND SIYOKOY (MERMAID AND MERMEN)

Mythical creatures of the ocean, the sirena is female and has a human body and a fish tail. Its mesmerizing beauty is said to attract fishermen and tourists, and lure them to the sea until they’re never to be found again. On the other hand, the siyokoy(male counterpart) takes a human form with scaled bodies. They have gills on the neck and for the lower extremities, they have either fishtails, or scaled legs and webbed feet. They are said to drown humans for their own consumption.


6. TIKTIK

Tiktik is a bird that serves as a spotter for its master, which is the aswang. Some say it’s the alter ego of aswang. The tiktik emits a unique, loud chirp “Tik-tik-tik” that serves as a warning to the victims. When it’s loud, it means the aswang is still far from the victim (cue to run for your life!) The cry gets fainter as the aswang approaches closer.



5. MANANANGGAL

One of the variations of aswang (unfortunately there are). Like a typical monster, they are not that photogenic and neat. At night, these winged creatures separate their torso from their body and use the upper half to fly on top of houses and prey on fetuses of pregnant women. For dinner, they extend their long, sharp tongues from the rooftop to the navels of their victims. Thanks to water sealants, manananggal cases seemed to have been dropped over the past few years. Tip: in case you see the lower half of the manananggal’s body, drench them with whatever spices and vinegar you have (a la adobo) because they are allergic to anything savory.


4. TIKBALANG

They are mythical creatures with a horse’s head, a human’s body, and a horse’s feet. They are fond of raping females to give birth to more tikbalang. They also like to trick travelers into getting lost in mountainous or forest areas.


3. TIYANAK (IMPAKTO)

They are said to be babies who died without receiving baptism rites. A tiyanak can also be the offspring of a woman and a demon, or an aborted fetus who comes back to seek revenge on its mother. They often disguise as a normal baby. But once the prey comes closer, that’s the time they reveal their monstrous form and eat it.


2. MANGKUKULAM (BRUHA/WITCH)

They are said to be people, especially women, who possess supernatural powers and have the ability to cast evil spells to their victims. They are the bad witches; they use dark magic. Mangkukulam is often stereotyped as donning a black dress, wearing too much dark makeup on, and having unkempt hair. 


1. ASWANG

Aswang is a legendary humanoid which is sort of a cross between a vampire and a witch. Regular townspeople by day, they become cannibals with a voracious appetite for human flesh by night. They can also transform into either a black boar or a huge dog. Some say that they are mostly female and they prefer butchering as occupation.





TOP 10 MOST POPULAR ANDROID GAMES IN 2013

Android is liked by a majority of users because of various reasons, however it positions first because of the wide range of games offered by it. People who are addicted to playing games are inclined and biased towards it because they know what they can experience by using it. Although there are a variety of games available on Google Play, but it becomes difficult to go through all of them and then download the best out of the lot. So here we help you with the list of Top 10 Android games produced to give you promising adventure. 

10. PLANTS VS. ZOMBIES 2


Plants vs. Zombies is a great take on classic Tower Defense games, and the second instalment has definitely bettered the first version. All new gameplay, towers, soundtrack and updated graphics make Plants vs. Zombies 2 a great free app.

9. CLASH OF CLANS


Clash of Clans is a cartoon-style strategy game, where the player raises an army of Wizards, Dragons, Barbarians and more to win strategic and quick competitive combat rounds. The player also controls a village which can be improved, online play and the option to team up with other players around the globe as a clan.

8. PET RESCUE SAGA


Pet Rescue comes from the same company as the Candy Crush Saga, and is a great little game to pass the time. There are rockets, bombs and way more unique items to help you clear the level, but play wisely – moves are limited.

7. FRUIT NINJA FREE


That rewarding thunk is really, really satisfying. Fruit Ninja is one of the most addictive games you can play, which you wouldn’t expect from a game where you just cut up fruit. Fruit Ninja features several gameplay modes, and you will never tire of beating your top score. Now available for free!

6. DEER HUNTER 2014


Apart from the great graphics, Deer Hunter 2014 features rewarding weaponry upgrades and an updated species list, now featuring over 100 species! To keep you interested there are trophies to collect and predators to watch out for.

5. TEMPLE RUN


The non-stop runner everyone knows – Temple Run. Escape from the Evil Demon Monkeys of the Temple and keep on running to get the top score. Simple controls – swipe to jump, turn and slide as you collect coins and power-ups to help you escape. Temple Run is one of the top runner games out there at the moment.

4. DESPICABLE ME: MINION RUSH


Based on the popular animated movie, in Despicable Me: Minion Rush you play as one of Gru’s yellow minions, fighting enemies, collecting bananas and loads more to become the best minion of the year! Minion Rush features customizable content, power-ups and plenty of secret areas and easter eggs to keep you entertained. If you liked the movie, you’ll love the game!

3. ANGRY BIRDS


Throw birds at pigs. Doesn’t sound that exciting, but anyone who has played Angry Birds (which is everyone) will disagree. The greedy pigs have stolen the birds’ eggs, and you must use the specialised ability of each bird to break down the pigs’ defences. This neat little game will keep anyone entertained for hours, as any player will agree.

2. SUBWAY SURFERS


Subway Surfers is a fresh take on the rapidly growing non-stop runner game genre. Run along subway tracks, over and under obstacles and on top of trains to escape from the Policeman and his dog. Subway Surfers features cool power-ups and abilities, and collect coins and keys as you try and get the best score

1. CANDY CRUSH SAGA


Surely everyone has heard of Candy Crush by now, right? Fortunately, if you couldn’t get this game before because it was only for IPhones – it is now available for Android! The classic theme of switch and match to remove pieces for some reason works extremely well in this infectiously addictive game. Whether it is the 400 levels, sweet graphics or free-to-play aspect, Candy Crush is the most popular game out there at the moment, and for good reason! If you haven’t already, download Candy Crush Saga for free and get playing!


TOP 10 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT PHILIPPINES

Every country has its own unique attributes that sets it apart from other countries. With Philippines, aside from the picturesque sceneries you’ll see in this blessed archipelago, it has more reasons why it should be visited. Here are some good reasons:


1. Filipinos are one of the world's best people

Our culture being naturally friendly and hospitable makes the Philippines highly visited by tourists. It’s like you’re just in your own home because Filipinos make it sure that their visitors are very taken care of. The Filipinos always have the seat in the top list of the World’s Happiest People.

2. Beautiful beaches, mountains,  landscapes and seascapes

The Philippines, of course is home to much paradiseName it; you’ll definitely see it here. Nature escapes vary from white sandy beaches to majestic waterfalls, mountainous terrains, vast plains, lush terraces, volcanoes and more. Not only is Philippines a great place for scenic spots, it also a home to many endangered species which include the Philippine Tarsier, Butandings, Philippine Eagle, Crocodiles, etc.

3. Sumptuous Foods

The Philippines also offers its tourist delicious cuisines and delicacies. Although it’s pretty good to eat at malls and restaurants, street foods are more of a bit challenging and incredibly yummy! The exotic foods in the Philippines are not to miss!

4. English in the country is pretty good.

The Philippines has been given recognition because of its great command of Business English. Such ability makes it easy for any tourist to get around the country. The Filipino’s ability to speak English although may not fluent to most, is because the language has been part of the curriculum even as early as pre-school.

5. Inexpensive Vacation Spots

The country is one of Asia’s inexpensive tourist spot. From the accommodation, clothing, entertainment, food down to the haircut Philippine prices are lesser than a tenth cost than in Australia.

6. The entertainment, Festivals and Parties

Any celebration in the Philippines is like a reason to celebrate so much. Festivals in the Philippines are the merriest, with lots of street dancing, exhibit fairs and many more. There are lots of foods and many gatherings everywhere. Even religious events are given importance and are all celebrated merrily.

7. Tropical Weather

Most of the tourists that visit the Philippines are of Western Origin. The sunny weather in the country makes it an ideal spot for tanning of these Caucasian beauties. Sunny days abound all throughout the year in the country.

8. Diving Haven

The beaches in the Philippines are mostly paired with vast marine life. Under the crystal blue waters of the country are coral reefs that serve as home to many aquatic lives. The country has been proven to be the epicentre of Marine Biodiversity in the world. There are known 488 coral species found in the Philippines stretching to over 13,000 square miles.

9. Rich in historical Sites

Being under the regime of many conquerors, Philippines is very rich in culture. Along with the culture are the remnants of the years gone by. A visit to any of these historical sites is like travelling back to the years gone by.

10. Plenty of talented Filipinos

The Philippines is not only a home to many tourist spots, it is also the home to many talented Filipinos. Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, a world-renowned boxer, Lea Salonga and Charice Pempengco are worldly acclaimed singers and many more. Pinoys pride themselves very much with these talented Filipinos.


SOURCE: http://www.wayph.com/top-10-reasons-why-you-should-visit-philippines/

TOP 10 FILIPINO STREET FOODS


1. FISH BALLS


Although there are already fish ball stalls found inside the malls, nothing beats the fish balls sold on the streets. For five pesos only, you already have 7 fish balls in a cup topped with either a sweet or a spicy sauce.

2. PROBEN


One of the deliciously tasting street foods in the Philippines is the Chicken Proben. Proben is essentially the proventriculus part of the chicken, which is dipped in cornstarch and then deep-fried. The price for this street food is from 4 pesos to 5 pesos only. With that amount, you get a stick with 4 probens. You can have it dipped with either vinergar sauce or sweet sauce or just have it plain.

3. KWEK-KWEK


These street foods are hard boiled eggs with an orange colored batter coating and cooked deep fry. Another version of it is Tukaneneng, to which they use quail eggs instead of chicken eggs. These foods are served with cucumber and some spices, of which you can choose to top it with vinegar and salt.

 4. TAHO


It is a soybean snack with sweet syrup and tapioca pearls. Taho is one of the favourite breakfast and snacks of children and adults.

5. BANANA CUES


Also known as Maruya, these foods are the Saba variety of bananas that are coated with caramelized sugar, deep fried and speared to bamboo sticks. It used to be only two pesos but now the price ranges from five to ten pesos.

6. CHICHARON


These are cracklings made from different parts of chicken and pig. They are seasoned and deep fried. Just the smell of these cracklings would make you want to buy it. Chicharon street foods include Chicken Skin (made from the skin of the chicken), Chicharong baboy (from pork rind), Chicharong Bituka (from chicken and pork intestines) and Chicharong bulaklak (from Pork Omentum).

7. BARBEQUE


These are marinated chicken and pork parts, speared in bamboo sticks and grilled. Barbeque varieties include Betamax (dried chicken or pork blood), Adidas (chicken feet), Helmet (chicken head), and Isaw (chicken intestines).

8. PUTO AT KUTSINTA

 

Puto and Kutsinta are native rice cakes. The Puto is a small puffy cake, while Kutsinta is sticky. They are paired with grated coconut.

9. BUKO JUICE


There is not a single array of street foods that doesn’t include a stall of Buko Juice. For five pesos, you already have the refreshing buko juice mixed with evaporated and condensed milk.

10. BALUT


One of Filipino’s favourite street foods is Balut. This street food is thought to be an aphrodisiac. Balut is a hard boiled duck eggs with developed embryo inside. Once you opened the egg, you may top it with vinegar or just pure salt then sip its amniotic fluid first before the other parts.


SOURCE: http://www.wayph.com/top-10-filipino-street-foods/