A TALE OF TWO GIANTS: a simple guide to choosing the right blogging platform

A TALE OF TWO GIANTS: a simple guide to choosing the right blogging platform

I have been a blogger for less than a year and a religious blogger for less than that. I have also shuttled back and forth between two popular blogging platforms, Wordpress and Blogger, in my quest for blogging greatness.

I claim to be no master in the world of blogging, or the blogosphere I should say, much less in the whole of digiworld. My little knowledge of technical jargon is limited to very basic stuff like KB, MB, GB, MP, and RAM. Other than these, my head spins and blood gushes out of my nose.

So me attempting to give a review of Wordpress vis a vis Blogger is nothing short of a little girl comparing her two favorite dolls based not on very techinical stuff but from very own experience. I hope this simple guide helps non-techies like myself choose which platform works better for them. This guide will be limited to Blogger and Wordpress as they are the only ones I'm familiar with.

NUMBER 1 GOAL-SETTING

Are you blogging simply to enjoy yourself, share your views and establish new relationships? Or are you blogging to earn a few bucks?

Wordpress allows you to blog for free, however, this limits your options of placing ads or selling ad space. You can also opt to self-host your Wordpress in other sites offering web-hosting, which allows you to earn some money from your blog by placing ads.

Blogger on the other hand is a free blogging tool which already allows its subscribers to tweak their templates and place ads.

NUMBER 2 YOUR NET-SAVVINESS

Do you understand how your templates work? Do you know how to tweak your html without disrupting the whole template? If you do, then tweaking Wordpress templates for blogs that are slef-hosted or are subscriber to wordpress itself will be a walk in the park. If not, you're better of with Blogger which allows "push-button publishing". You can just add the html/javascript in "Add gadget" and you're done.

NUMBER 3 USER-FRIENDLINESS

For easy navigation, Wordpress win hands down. You can access everything from your dashboard without changing windows or pages.

Whereas in Blogger, navigation takes awhile which can be quite confusing. From your dashboard, you can see your blogs however adding a new post takes two to three more pages. There are also links that would actually take you away from your current page and into another Google-related site.

NUMBER 4 EXPOSURE

The thing that I love most about Wordpress is how it drives traffic into your blog. Once you publish your blog, it appears in the global dashboard as one of the new entries, thereby giving you free exposure and encouraging fellow Wordpress bloggers to visit your site. If your blog pulls in quite a number of traffic, Wordpress rewards you by being on the TOP BLOGS list, again ensuring maximum exposure to the Wordpress community.

For Blogger, however, you are pretty much on your own.

But if you would choose not to show your blog to anyone at all, but platforms offer the choice not to make it available to anyone else except yourself. After all, a weblog started as simple diary entries before transforming into the entire blogosphere.

NUMBER 5 CSS TEMPLATE VERSATILITY

For sure template versatility comes with a price in Wordpress, it's either you host your blog somewhere else or you pay the fee to allow you to edit your template if you want to add a plug-in or a widget. For a personal blog that is not designed to earn some cash, the basic Wordpress templates would suffice. But for others who would want to add more personality and spice to their blogs, it would be best to sign-up up with Blogger.



For me, I have decided to stick it out with Blogger now that I have built-up my blog's reputation. I have also decided to make my blog earn and pay a few bills for me, and Blogger is letting me do that for free. I still maintain my Wordpress blog though for networking and exposure purposes.

Earning from blogging isn't as easy as some make it out to be. And it all starts from one decision, which platform would be best suit your needs. After this is made, the harder part begins, blogging.

Have a happy blog life!

ADB's MY VIEW Video Competition

The Asian Development Bank is launching a video making contest aimed at educating the world about climate change.

All you have to do is make a 1 to 5 minute digital film about climate change. It can be in any digital video format, including 3gp, and in any genre.

Although the video can be in any language, it is recommended that you put in english subtitles.

Then, upload it to youtube.

The grand prize is USD2,500

Entries will be accepted until January 31, 2010.

For complete contest mechanics, click this.

Work from Home Options

With the internet explosion a few years back, many people made their fortune in it. Recently, the new internet millionaires include the makers of Facebook and Twitter, being the most innovative services around today.

With internet users reaching almost 1.8 million according to InternetWorldStats, this has become another venue besides the television, print and radio to advertise in. And so followed another explosion of sites that offer services to drive your traffic, increase your SEO ranking and therefore increase your income, via sales or otherwise.

This new playing field opened countless possibilities, not the least of which is being able to earn a living from the home and freeing oneself from nosy, overbearing bosses. Many people welcomed this shift, and many of them are mothers who would like to spend more time with her children but still put money on the table.

Here is a list of some very good options in no particular order according to the wisdom of cumulated experience of friends.


My lot is a forum with pay. If you love sharing your views with people and get a thrill out of instant and constant interaction in forums, then MyLot is for you. You get paid for every topic you post, every response you post and get and refferals too!

Blogsvertise is perfect for people who dreams of making their blog earn enough to cover their living expenses, or just the gasoline for starters. You blog about products, you get paid. Simple enough. All you need is a creative mind, an eloquent tongue and an internet connection and you're all set-up. But if you would like to advertise, you are also welcome.


Chitika is an advertising company that lets you earn everyday with on-line advertising that is tied with Adsense, allowing you to actually earn more than with Adsense alone. This is different as ads from Chitika will run only if your traffic comes from a search engine. If it isn't another ad will pop up, based on your settings.

is a very good option for those who want to manage their own time. It offers countless jobs for freelancers. It also sets a standard for its providers and freelancers to ensure the quality of service offered and also raise the freelancers money-earning level. All you have to do is sign-up, update your profile, take their tests and wait for job openings that suit your preferences

Bidvertiser is one of the sites that pay you for every ad clicked in your site.

Sell your ad space with BidVertiser


0Desk is another site that offers employment to freelancers. It looks similar to an office setting where you have colleagues, an support group, only you manage your own time. It also offers an option of having your computer oDesk ready to give you a chance to receive more offers.

And to ensure that you get paid, don't forget to set-up an account with one of the most reliable money-transfer sites, Paypal.

Just got my FREE Johnson's Body Care Kit

This wonderful package arrived just last Sunday. I was hoping against hope that stocks are still available, as it was on a first come, first served basis.

You can still catch up, click this link for a softer skin!

Four New Storybooks Launching

Introduce your children to the wonderful world of book this coming Saturday, November 28 at 2:00 pm. Adarna books will be launching four new storybooks at Eastwood Mall, on the third floor.

This is guaranteed to be a fun day for the kids (and adult booklovers alike!). There will be various activities that children will enjoy participating in like storytelling, face-painting and others.

An added treat is an impromptu book-signing from your favorite authors and illustrators.

So, mark it on your calendars and head for the booklaunching this November 28 at Eastwood Mall. See you there!

Pamper your skin for Free by Johnson's Body Care

Want to have baby-soft, baby-smooth skin without spending anything? This is one promo I didn't pass-up. It was so simple, as easy as 1-2-3.

Step 1
Sign-up

Step 2
Wait for the Delivery

Step 3
Enjoy your new-found baby-smooth skin

I have already signed up and currently awaiting the package. It has been 3 days now and I can hardly wait!

Kikay loot from Cosmo!

Feeling emo today? This Kanebo Gel Eyeliner and Stila Smudge Pots are for you.

There are two ways how to score this kikay product.

1: Log in to Cosmo.ph and comment why you deserve to win the kikay product you're lusting after.

2: Be an e-newsletter subcriber and have a chance to win when Cosmo raffles of their loot.

Prices include:

1. L’Oreal UV Perfect Advanced Fluid Protector SPF50
2. Neutrogena Wave Power Cleanser
3. Bobbi Brown Copper Diamond Shimmer Brick
4. Veet Ready To Use Hair Removal Strips For Face, Underarm, and Bikini Line
5. L’Oreal Professionnel Texture Perfect Shimmer
6. ModelCo Lipstick in True Red
7. Bench Organics Green Tea Facial Cleanser
8. VMV Hypoallergenics Superwash Hair and Body Milk Shampoo

This promo will run from November 9 to 30, 2009 only.

For complete contest mechanics, click this.

Goldilocks launches Blog Contest!

This is open to all bloggers who are registered Nuffnangers.

Promo runs until July 15!

At stake are Asus and HP mini laptops.

There is no purchase necessary, just your creativity and passion for Goldilocks' products.

Volunteer Chronicles 2

This writing contest is open to anyone, 16 years old and above, who would like to share their volunteer experience.

Prizes at stake are:
First Prize: P5,000 worth Powerbooks Gift Cards + Free trip for two (2) to Boracay via SEAir + Free Accommodations for two nights at Punta Rosa Resort + an opportunity to do a Hands On Volunteer Vacations project in Aklan
Second Prize: P3,000 worth Powerbooks Gift Cards + Free trip for two (2) to Bohol via Cebu Pacific + Free Accommodations for two nights at Amarela Resort + an opportunity to do a Hands On Volunteer Vacations project in Bohol
Third Prize: P2,000 worth Powerbooks Gift Cards + Free Accommodations for two (2) at Taal Vista Hotel in Tagaytay + an opportunity to do a Hands On Volunteer Vacations project in Laguna or Batangas


Deadline is on August 31, 2009


See complete contest mechanics.

Corel Digital Art Competition

Discover the freedom to create your way in the Corel 2009 Asia-Pacific International Digital Art Competition.
From now until the end of May 2009, share your designs with the world and grab a chance to Win Great Prizes. Grand prize valued at US$12,000! Find out more and submit your entries at http://www.corel.com/apac-contest

FREE Food from Sentro 1171

Sentro 1771 is celebrating their 7th year Anniversary. They have launched this promo to let more people know of their yummy food. Simply email this promotional flyer to 20 of your contacts and you will get a chance to taste Sentro 1771's Fresh Smoked Fish Spring Rolls for FREE! No purchase necessary. don't forget to furnish marketing@chateaugroup.com with a copy of your email with 20 recipients.

Free Book from OMFLit!

If you love books, got a blog and would like to dabble in writing book reviews, this promo is for you!

Email your name and a link to your blog (or Facebook, Friendster, Multiply, MySpace account) to promo@omflit.com. Twenty lucky bloggers will be randomly chosen to get advanced copies of this book. In exchange, read it and post a blog about your review in your blog AND the OMFLit's site.

Win an iPod and a Mac book

The summer heat is on! Yet a long season ahead to discover another stretch of our paradise! Take pleasure in everything these 7,000 plus islands have to offer and send in your anecdotes in snapshots, videos, blog features or original music compositions of “YOUR” best experiences on Philippine travel destinations, local delicacies, crafts, traditions and festivals.

Let those creative juices flow and get your hands moving as you make those captured moments beautifully immortal through Apple's latest iPhoto, iMovie, iWeb, or a PRO-like music composition experience with GarageBand '09. Organize, customize, edit, enjoy, and share your photos, videos and blogs and compose your own music the iLife way — superbly fun, breathtakingly cool and like a PRO! Take your music skills to the next level with GarageBand! Get the most out of your photos, videos and web pages with the available vibrant effects, dynamic themes, templates and easy-to-use tools for creating much more fun I Love Philippines “iMemories!”

Reposted from Philippine Star

Make Your Day Brighter with Red Ribbon’s Cookies & Cream Cake

Happy Mother’s Day to all moms! In celebration of this special occasion, Red Ribbon is once again sponsoring a blog writing contest entitled “Make Your Day Brighter with Red Ribbon’s Cookies & Cream Cake“. Simply tell your story on how does the Cookies & Cream with Oreo cake make your day, or your family’s day, brighter.

Prizes:
1st Place: P1000 Red Ribbon Gift Certificate
2nd Place: P600 Red Ribbon Gift Certificate
3rd Place: P400 Red Ribbon Gift Certificate

For complete mechanics to this yummy contest.

Adarna House's Back-to-School Sale

Enjoy big discounts when you go to the Adarna Showroom!

Kiddie Kwela-ABC 5 AUDITIONS!

Attention mga KIDDIE KWELLERS!

Ang anak mo ba ay:

KWELA,

MAKULIT,

TALENTADO,

at 3 to 6 YEARS OLD?

Baka ang anak mo na ang hinahanap namin!

Kaya naman paghandain sila ng kanilang wonderful KIDDIE talents at ipaAUDITION sila sa:

Sa Sabado, May 9, mula 1 hanggang 5 ng hapon sa SM Storyland Fairview!

Huwag din kalimutan dalhin ang mga sumusunod:

• 4 pcs. 2x2 pictures
• Birth certificate

______________________________________

Reposted from http://kidsahoy.multiply.com/journal/item/144/

Ika-Anom na Premio Tomas Arejola para sa Literaturang Bikolnon

PREMIO TOMAS AREJOLA ANNOUNCED

Ika-Anom na Premio Tomas Arejola para sa Literaturang Bikolnon

c/o Museo de Caceres, Holy Rosary Minor Seminary

Elias Angeles St., Naga City, Philippines

PremioTomasArejola@gmail.com

I. REGULAR CATEGORIES

Open to all Bicolano writers and literary enthusiasts writing in any of the Bikol languages. There shall be no discrimination on the basis of age, gender or religion. Contestants under 18 years of age are, however, required to submit a certificate of parental consent.

The 6 TH Premio Arejola is open in the Poetry, Fiction, Essay, Drama and the Novel categories.

• Entries for the Rawitdawit (Poetry) category must consist of at least 10 poems but not more than 15 poems.
• Entries for Osipon (Fiction) should be at least 7 pages in length but should not exceed 12 pages.
• Entries for the Osipon na Pan-aki (Stories for Children) should be at least 5 pages in length but should not exceed 10 pages. Entries with a plot and narrative suitable for an illustrated storybook of at least 30 pages are preferred.
• Entries in the Halipot na Dula (One-act Play) must be of sufficient length to approximate a performing time of at least thirty minutes. Halawig na Dula (Full-length Play) should have a performing time of at least an hour and a half. Entries in the play categories may be intended for children and/or adults. Plays for children, however, should be directed principally to promote Bikol values and traditions in the grade school level, ages 7 to 12.

• Entries in the Salaysay (Essay) category should be at least 5 pages in length but should not exceed 8 pages. Informal, personal essays about the Bicolano way of life are preferred.
• Entries in the Nobela (Novel) may deal with any subject, provided it is tackling issues relevant to Bikol realities.

Only new and unpublished works are eligible. A work that has been awarded a prize in another contest is not qualified for the awards.

All entries should be written originally in Bikol and not a translation of a work written in another language. The works must show literary merit and social significance.

Contestants may join in all categories but can submit only one entry per category.

Entries in the regular categories must be submitted in four copies, double spaced on 8 1/2 X 11 inches bond paper with one inch margin on all sides and the page number typed consecutively, e.g., 1 of 8, 2 of 8 and so on. Font must be Arial and font size must be 12. Entry must be submitted with pseudonym only and not the author's real name. Author's name and pseudonym must be submitted in a separate sealed envelope together with a bio-data containing the author's literary background, an ID picture, and contact information. A notarized declaration of originality and authenticity of authorship must accompany the entry.

Finalists in each of the categories shall receive the Premio Tomas Arejola Diploma of Merit. A top winner will be chosen from among the finalists who shall then receive the Premio Tomas Arejola medallion and P3, 000 cash prize. The said category winners are eligible for the Grand Prize, the winner of which shall be named Parasurat kan Taon (Writer of the Year) and will be awarded P10, 000. and the Naga City Jaycees Writer of the Year Trophy.

II. MGA RAWITDAWIT para ki INA Category

To honor the 2010 Tercentenary of the Bikol Devotion to the Lady of Peñafrancia, the Patroness of Kabikolan, the Premio Arejola shall once again have a poetry category for high school and elementary students. To be known as Rawitdawit para ki Ina , this category shall have the following rules:

• Participants may submit more than one entry but each entry must be computer-typed

and accompanied by a) the author's brief bio-data duly signed by a class adviser or a faculty coach and b) a certificate of parental consent.

• Entries must be written in the Bikol language, original, unpublished and not previously awarded a prize in any literary contest.
• There are no restrictions in length and style but all entries must articulate a young person's devotional sentiments to the Lady of Peñafrancia, as well as the significance of such devotion in today's world.

• Out-of-school youth not more than 18 years old are also enjoined to participate.
• Finalists and their adviser/mentor will each be awarded the Premio Tomas Arejola Diploma of Merit. The three best entries will be chosen from among the finalists who shall each receive the Naga City Jaycees Rawitdawit para ki Ina Medallion and P2, 000 cash prize. The adviser or mentor of the top three winners will receive medallions and prizes. In the event that an out-of-school youth wins, the prizes intended for the adviser/mentor will be awarded to the participant's parent or guardian.

III. PREMIO BIBIANO SABINO

The category is open to book authors, book designers/ illustrators, anthologists/editors and publishers of Bikol literary titles. To qualify, the book must be written majorly in the Bikol language, anthologized/ edited, designed/illustrated by a Bicolano native or resident. Only titles published and distributed between September 2007 and September 2009 are eligible.

Individuals involved in book publishing may nominate by submitting a copy of the book accompanied by a letter from the nominator testifying to the book's meritorious contribution to Bikol letters. Copy of winning entry shall remain with and become property of the Premio Arejola.

The winner will receive a testimonial plague, P5, 000, and shall be listed in the roster along with the winners of the regular category and Lifetime Achievement Awardees.

IV. OTHER INFORMATION

Entries for all categories must be addressed to the Premio Tomas Arejola para sa Literaturang Bikolnon, sent at the above address not later than June 30, 2009. Entries sent by mail or courier must be postmarked /invoiced not later than June 25, 2009.

Entries submitted via e-mail must be a Word Document file and sent as an attachment together with the contestant's bio-data containing his/her literary background and a notarized certification or authenticity of authorship of the entry. The original copy of notarized certification and ID picture must then be sent to 2009 PTALB thru mail. Entries submitted via e-mail must be submitted not later than June 25, 2009.

Failure to comply with any of the requirements shall result in disqualification from the awards.

Copyright of the works remain with the author but the latter grants, assigns and transfers into PTALB the right without necessity of any payment other than the prize which may have been awarded to publish the winning entry or portion thereof as it may at its discretion.

The Premio Arejola has the right of action against the author if it may later on discovered that the participant is not the creator or owner of the copyright to the winning work. The Premio Arejola shall not be liable to any court action if a third party files a case against the winner and/or contestant who plagiarized the work of the said third party.

Winners of all the aforementioned categories shall be responsible for the payment of government taxes.

Names of the finalists will be announced in local weeklies and radio stations on the first week of September 2009.

The names of the winners and members of the Board of Judges shall be announced on or before Sept 14, 2008, Tomas Arejola's 144 th birth anniversary, in an awarding ceremony in Naga City.

Reposted from panitikan.com.ph

BE a FREEDOM FIGHTER!

How would you like to just disengage yourself from the trappings of life and enjoy for once?

BPI is offering you the chance to enjoy life more as you take car of your needs, anytime and anywhere convenient to you.

Just shoot a video of what you will do with your free time.

Upload it as a video reply to www.youtube.com/expectmorefreedom

Ask your friends to view it. One view = One Vote

Promo ends on July 27.

See complete contest mechanics

Vado HD Pocket Video --- FREE!

NOw, this is simply heaven. I've read it's review and it's pure fun to use it. It is so small and light, you can take this anywhere.

HOw would you like to win this baby? I would! Yep, I certainly would.

Win an Ipod Nano and $500!

The ipod I can actually live without, but the cash prize is just too tempting! So I'm posting this contest to win an ipod and additional $500 for you dear readers to get a chance at this too.

I plan to get the pink one and spend the cash prize on school supplies (hmmm...).

2009 Romeo Forbes Children's Story Writing Competition Winner

Canvas launched a storywriting contest last February, using this unnamed artwork as basis or jump-off point. For this contest, Fernando Gonzalez was named the grand prize winner with his entry Mga Huni sa Loob ng Kawayan. Other winners were also named.

Congratulations!

A Good Week

I had a good week last week. My contest-junkiness paid off and I won in two contests!

ANIMETRIC’S WORLD

I heard about this contest being hosted in Animetric’s World which is giving away a Pond’s Age Miracle Dermabrasion Kit, worth approximately P1,200. It was about keeping the passion burning in one’s relationship. The rules are suprisingly simple.
You just blog about the contest and linkback to the site.





For my entry I wrote how difficult it has been to be around a hawk-eyed daughter. My entry didn’t actually make to the top posts, but my name was drawn in the electronic raffle, and that’s good enough to satisfy my contest craving.


INQUIRER PUBLICATION INC.

I found out about this contest from another blog. Inquirer Publication Inc. is holding a contest on summer memories. They’re giving away Gift Certificates from Mang Inasal, Zagu, Movie Tickets at Glorietta 4 and a horde of magazines. Again, the rules are simple. Sign-up for a multiply account, if you haven’t got one, make them your contact and email your entry.

I reminisced about my childhood summer memories when everything was still simple and unhurried. I wanted to write more but the entry has a word limit (150 words or less). I only placed 2nd runner-up and won the package except for the Zagu and Mang Inasal GCs, which is what I’m really after.
I’ll be picking up and enjoying my prizes in the next few weeks. They’re just in time for my birthday!

I wanna win $200!

New contest I stumbled upon, with $200 as cash prize. No sweat to it, just blog about it (promotion) and make sure you've got 10 points to qualify.

Wanting more information on how to join this contest? Check out BloggerTricks

The sponsors are:
Directory Submission Service : getlinkspro.com
She Told Me : shetoldme.com
Discount Codes : digitaldiscountcodes.com
Make Money Online : moneymakerinfo.blogspot.com

My SUPERMOM

Saw this contest again on Designs by Vanessa. Nothing complicated, just take a test in The Body shop website and Viola! you qualify to win exciting prices. I hope I win this for my mom. She really deserves some pampering after everything that happened (you don't wanna know).

ROSE RING GIVEAWAY

I just stumbled upon a contest for fashionistas! Up for grabs is the cute ring featured above, it depends of course on the color of your choice.

All you have to do is go to Designs by Vanessa, and follow her intructions.

When I followed the link she presented, I was pleasantly surprised at the items for sale. No, you don't need to shell out money yet, all you have to do is pick out what you want and TELL the world about it (in her comment box that is!) I fell in love with this ring,

Too bad this isn't the prize. Well, i'm crossing my fingers....

KickLight Contest. Win $2,500 and $250 weekly cash prizes!

Got the funny bone? You just might laugh your way to the bank with this contest. Kicklight.com is offering you the chance to cash in on your digitial editing skills AND humor.



YOUR TASK — Create a kicklight on whatever topic or theme that you want. Some examples:

⇒ a travel video with kicks describing each location in more detail and links to a map
⇒ a speech or interview video with kicks providing “fact check” commentary
⇒ an art portfolio video with the kicks displaying the name of each work and their inspiration
⇒ a comedy video with kicks that comment on what’s occurring in the video

YOUR GOAL — Use the functionality that kicklight offers to create a unique, highly compelling experience for viewers. Chances are that if you love what you create, other people will as well - including the judges!

Each week from March 2nd through the week of May 4th, we'll pick the winner of a $250 weekly prize. On May 20th, we’ll announce the $2,500 grand prize winner chosen from the pool of weekly winners.



How to enter the Contest
Every kicklight that is published on KickLight between March 2, 2009 and May 11, 2009 will be automatically included in the contest. If you want to publish a kicklight during this period but you do not want to participate on the contest (what, are you crazy?!), just drop us a note at contest@kicklight.com. Better yet, why not win and then give the money to the charity of your choice!"

Dealine is on May 11,2009.

Reposted from KickLight.com,. For more information, click on the link.

SLINGSHOT WAKEBOARD Design Contest

Wakesites, Slingshot Wake and ProductPulse have teamed to bring you a contest where you get to design a limited edition Slingshot wakeboard. Even better, submitted designs will be featured on MySpace and Facebook, so your creative work will be seen by millions. So, check out the current leaders. And while you're at it, create and submit your own design to win. You just might end up riding on it.

For more information, click here.

My Hanabishi Promo

Mag-email ng mga di-malilimutang experiences through the years with your Hanabishi appliances. Email your stories and pictures of you and your appliances to hanabishipromo@yahoo.com o kaya drop them in drop boxes located at major department stores and appliance centers nationwide. Ang mga oldest appliances na may pinakabonggang kwento, mananalo ng P50,000 cash + appliances!!!

Promo runs from April-15 to July 15, 2009

For more details log on to myhanabishi.com

Flash Fiction Scriptwriting Contest

The Animation Council of the Philippines, Inc. (ACPI), is launching it's first flash scriptwriting tilt.

Mechanics:

1. Open to all Filipino citizens, regardless of age.

2. Entry must be good for a 5 minute story.

3. Themes must explore any or a combination of the ff: filipino freedom from colonization, filipino cultural diversity, and/or filipino cultural diversity.

4. Complete contest mechanics.


Prizes at stake are P1o,000, P7,000 and P5,000 for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes respectively.

Deadline for entries is on May 15, 2009 at 12 noon.

1st MTRCB Metro Manila Students Screenplay Awards

The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board is launching its writing tilt for college students.

The entries for the screenplay tilt has "no particular theme as long as they are original and unpublished."

Prizes are P30,000 and P20,000, 1st and 2nd places respectively. Plus, P10,000 cash prize for special awards.

For those interested, contact 925-5006 to 07.

I went to MTRCB's website, but as with other government sites, it is poorly maintained and very outdated (tsk,tsk,tsk). So details for this contest are pieced together from newspaper articles, particularly from Philippine Daily Inquirer.

POND's Age Miracle Contest!

Hi,

Congratulations! Your entry has been drawn as the winner of the Pond's Age Miracle electronic raffle!

You may claim the prize at:

OgilvyOne Worldwide
15/F Philamlife Tower, Paseo de Roxas, Makati City

Pls. call Ms. Carla Jimenez at 885-0001 loc. 133 from April 20, 2009 onwards to set an appointment.

Thank you so much for joining, and again, Congratulations!

Best Regards,

Rowena Wendy Lei




This is the email i received! whoo! I'll be posting the pictures as soon as i pick-up my prize. To view my entry, go to Guerilla-Style Romance.

This is just one more reason to keep on joining contests! Wheee!

Free YOGA fair!

Indigo Baby is launching a new product line for yummy mommies and daddies. They would be holding a FREE Yoga and Wellness Fair at the Plaza Drive, Powerplant Mall, Makati City, on April 25 & 26

CALLING all MOVIE BUFFS!

Do you love romance movies? Do you want to dabble in video editing? A marriage made in digital heaven? This contest is for you!

open until May 1, 2009

XPANGO FREEBIE

If you're into social networking, this will work for you. Imagine social networking with a very wonderful twist - free stuff! Click on the image and just follow the intructions.

WIN A BEAR!

If you are a multiply user, you can win this cuddly bear! If you're not, it's time to sign-up!

Simply post a comment in the "Add Comment" box why you deserve to win this huggable bear.

Promo is open until April 18, 2009. HUrry!

Why Men Love Whisper

OFFICIAL RULES

1. HOW TO JOIN: To join WHY MEN LOVE WHISPER Promo, participant/s must submit/upload a photo of himself/themselves together with his/their special someone. The photo/s should depict a “getting close” moment and should include a short story explaining what made that “getting close” moment so special.

2. WHO CAN JOIN: WHY MEN LOVE WHISPER Promo is open to all interested parties who are residents of the Philippines. Persons under the age of 18, thus considered minors, may enter but written consent from their parent/legal guardian will be required before their entries will be broadcast or be eligible for prize awards.

3. COMPLETE RULES and HOW-TOs

Entries must be received before 11:59 PM April 30, 2009.

Children's lit Booktalk & Work in Progress Group Critique

WHAT : The 28th SCBWI Children's Lit Booktalk
WHEN : 6 to 8 pm on Monday, 2009 April 13
WHERE : McCafe at Greenbelt 1, Paseo de Roxas, Makati
right in front of AIM (Asian Institute of Management)
HOST : Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators

BRING : Any children's or young adult book that you want
to share, discuss, ask questions about, or use as a spring-
board for discussion.

Or, bring a work in progress -- your art or manuscript for a
children's or young adult book -- and get a group critique
plus tips on how to get published.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
This activity is for adults (18 years old and above) who are:
* Published/unpublished children's book writers/illustrators
* Keenly interested in children's and young adult literature
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
6 to 7 pm - Roundtable introductions, Booktalk, Q&A
7 to 8 pm - Manuscript/Art critiques, or hands-on exercises
8 pm up - (Optional) Roundtable discussion, more Q&A
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

We collect an attendance fee of P80 for members and
P100 for non-members, which mostly goes to ordering
a hot or cold drink for you during the meeting.

For more information contact :
* Beaulah Pedregosa Taguiwalo
0917-787-4956, taguiwalo8888@yahoo.com
http://www.scbwi.org/regions/RA_bios.htm#taguiwalo
* Dominique Garde Torres
0905-347-1668, nikkigtorres@yahoo.com
http://www.scbwi.org/regions/RA_bios.htm#torres

Reposted from an email they sent me.

BLOG and WiN!

For the Competition Details

20 Bloggers will be chosen to have a free experience at BlueWater Day Spa Capitol Hills Event. Date and Time of the event will be disclosed to the winners thru their emails.



1. What Service Would you like to do in BlueWater Day Spa Capitol Hills and Why? (relate your blog post on the location of Capitol Hills)

2. Embed the map on top with the contact details and Address.

2. Link back to BlueWater Day Spa website

3. Link back to this Post.

4. Comment back here when you’re finish.

Entries will close on Tuesday (April 21, 2009) at 11:59pm. Submissions after the said date and time will not be accepted.

Reposted from iendorser

KWENTO-FANTASTIKO

Mga Kasamang Manunulat,

Nais namin kayong imbitahan na mag-ambag ng isang kwentong fantastiko na tumatalakay sa mga kontemporaryong isyung panlipunang umiinog sa ating bansa.

Ang kwentong fantastiko ay mga maiikling kwentong tumatalakay gamit ang mga elemento ng kontemporaryong panahon, fantasya o kathang-isip, at fantastikong kabig (twist) sa ending. Dahil sa maigting na ugnay ng sining at lipunan sa ating bansa, nais langkapan ng elemento ng politikal (komentaryong panlipunan at transformatibong pangangailangan) ang kwentong fantastiko.

Layunin ng koleksyong ito na maitanghal ang mapagpalayang diskursong politikal ng kontemporaryong panahon sa pamamagitan ng eksplorasyon ng fantastikong pagkatha. Sa pamamagitan ng koleksyon na ito, inaasahan ang mga kontributor na magsiwalat ng mga partikular na usaping maaaring maging paraan sa higit na pag-unawa ng ating kasalukuyang lipunan, lalong higit, ang pagkritika sa mga pangyayaring politikal na humuhubog sa ating kamalayan bilang mga indibiduwal, alagad ng sining, mamamayan at iba pa. Dito rin titingnan ang maigting na ugnayan ng konsepto ng fantasya at realidad na kung tutuusi’y mayaman na materyal sa pagkatha ng maikling kwento.

Narito ang inisyal na balangkas o gabay sa pagkatha ng kwentong fantastiko:

1. Kontemporaryong panahon: napapanahon at kasalukuyan
2. Fantasyang tagpo: paglikha ng fantasmagorikong tao, nilalang, sitwasyong halaw sa kathang-isip, di pa sa tradisyon at science fiction
3. Fantastikong kabig: twist na magaganap sa huling bahagi ng kwento
4. Politikal na tema: maaaring direktang politikal ang katha o kaya’y matukoy ang politikal sa pamamagitan ng paggamit ng mga simbolo at iba pang literary technique
5. Lima hanggang walong pahina lamang
6. Isang kwento kada manunulat lamang

Kalakip ng elektronikong liham na ito ang ilang halimbawa ng mga kwentong maaaring ituring na fantastiko*:

1. Wolfgang Hildesheimer A World Ends*

2. Deogracias Rosario Kung Ipaghiganti ang Puso*

Dagdag na referensya rin ang mga kwentong Filipino na matatagpuan sa mga antolohiya:

1. Jorge Luis Borges August 25, 1983 (Black Water: The Anthology of Fantastic Literature)

2. Horacio Quiroga The Feather Pillow (Black Water: The Anthology of Fantastic Literature)

3. Virgilio Pinera Meat (The Oxford Book of Latin American Short Stories)

Narito ang ating skedyul:

1. Enero 9, 2009-Call for contribution
2. Abril 25, 2009-submission of stories (deadline)
3. Mayo 2009-Editing at paggawa ng introduksyon
4. Hunyo 2009-pagsusumite sa press

Ipadala ang inyong kontribusyon sa tatlong sumusunod na email address:

kathaisip@gmail.com

magpaubaya@yahoo.com

rommelrdrgz@gmail.com

NAIS NAMING KLARUHIN NA ANG KALAKARAN NG PUBLISHING AY NAGTATAKDA SA PRESS BILANG FINAL NA ARBITER NG PAGPILI NG SELEKSYON. KAYA KAHIT NAPILI ITO NG MGA EDITOR, DADAAN PA RIN SA PRESS ANG FINAL NA SCREENING NG LINE-UP NG KWENTO.

Kung mayroon kayong mga katanungan, huwag mag-atubiling ipaalam ito sa amin. Maraming salamat.

Reposted from Filipino Writer

New Deadline for Gig Book Storywriting Contest

New deadline: May 31, 2009


The Gig Book Storywriting Contest has extended the deadline for submission of entries to May 31, 2009. The contest is open to anyone age 17 years or older. Entries must be stories written in English and intended for children age 6 to 12 years. The theme must be something that seafarers' families - especially children - can identify with. The story must, in the judges' opinion, resonate well with children whose fathers are mostly away at sea, and preferrably promote positive human values (e.g. love, respect, honesty, compassion, care, humility, responsibility, understanding, strength, courage, resilience, etc.). The word count must be 1,000 words or less, and the plot and sequence must be capable of sustaining a 24-page illustrated book.

For the complete Official Contest Rules, go to http://gigbookcontest.blogspot.com. To get a pdf, or for further inquiries, email gigbookcontest@gmail.com

Reposted from my email.

JOBS! JOBS! JOBS!

Feeling the economic crunch? Need to find work ASAP?

Look no further. Build your career with Summit Media and other companies.

Check them out now!

Share your Story and Win!

As moms and wives, a common goal we all share is achieving balance. In my case, it wasn't so complicated when it was just me and hubby. We could just take off anytime we wanted and be spontaneous. About a decade and two children later, it's just not as easy as it used to be. We work 6 days a week, and most of the day is spent at work. By the time we get home, the kids are already hankering for time with us. Getting some serious couple time becomes a challenge when you have more responsibilities to juggle.

How do you cope? How do you keep the fire burning in your marriage amidst all the other things you need to balance? Share your story with us and get a chance to win a Pond's Age Miracle Microdermabrasion Kit (worth at least P1,200!) which will leave you positively glowing and ready for some quality time with hubby!

Contest Mechanics:

1. Contest is open to all married male and female residents of the Philippines. Yes hubbies, this means YOU too.
2. In 250 words or less, write about how you keep the romance alive in your marriage -- the more creative, the better!
3. You may enter in two ways -- via a blog post (post the blog url on the reply form) or via a reply to this blog with your full name and email address.
4. There will be five (5) winners for this contest. Four winners will be selected by our special guest judge Jen CC Tan of Mom Exchange, while the fifth winner will be determined by an electronic raffle of all the non-winning entries.
5. Those who will submit blog entries for the contest will earn bonus points:
- written entry on this blog’s reply form = 1 raffle entry
- blog entry* = 2 raffle entries
- blog entry with photo OR link back to this contest page* = 3 raffle entries
- blog entry with photo AND link back to this contest page* = 4 raffle entries

*Blog entries to this contest can get a maximum of four (4) entries for the raffle, meaning I will input your name 4x in the randomizer so you have more chances of winning!

Contest Period: April 1-14, 2009. I will accept entries up to April 14, 2009 at 11:59pm. Winners will be announced on this blog a few days after the deadline.

Feel free to post questions regarding the promo on the reply section. Thank you and good luck!


Reposted from Animatric's World
Special thanks to OgilvyOne and Unilever for making this possible. :)

Happy Face Contest


Make your child famous and win great prizes!
Join Wonder Mom's Happy Face Contest!


Mechanics:
Step 1. Post a high resolution picture of your child’s best smile and
write in 30 words or less why your baby brings a smile to your face.

Step 2. Upload that photo in the WondermomTV Multiply group site. To post a photo, click HERE.. Don't forget to include your Name, the Child’s Name and Gender, your Relation to the Child and Contact Number.

Step 3. Don't forget to TAG your work with "happy face" (without the quotation marks, please) and the airing date of Wonder Mom. Photo albums/entries without tags are automatically disqualified. See sample below.



Step 4. Tell your fellow mommies (even daddies!) and friends to do the same! (This isn't a requirement, but it would be fun seeing your friends do the same! The more, the merrier!!!)

Note:
Only pictures of kids from 3 months-5 years old can join the contest.
One winner will be chosen every Monday and will be posted here.
Winner can claim their prizes a week after announcement.


So start posting you and your special someone's photo now! Make it unique, make it interesting!

Just remember --- tag your work with "happy face" and the airing date of Wonder Mom, and share it with the rest of the world!



For details, please call (02) 924-4101 local 5314.

Reposted from WonderMom website.

Happiness in a Bag of Drypers

I saw this ad on the newspaper but unfortunately, i couldn't see anything about it on the net.

Buy specially-marked Drypers diaper packs to get a coupon.

The winning combinations are:

1) Drypers Mom & Baby Seal, Drypers Super Sulit Seal and Drypers Seal = P5,000
2) Three Drypers Sulit Seals = P10,000
3) Three Drypers Seals = P15,000


Promo is from March 28 to May 31, 2009

NISSIN YAKISOBA Contest

Ilabas ang true you and be a star in an INSTANT! Win exciting prizes and be one of the newest endorsers of Nissin Yakisoba!

1. The contest is open to all college students enrolled for S.Y. 2008-2009 from participating schools of the University Invasion who best embody the different personalities of Nissin Yakisoba: Artsy Fartsy, Campus Idol, Celebrity-Material, Dean’s Lister, Fashionista, and Musikero.

2. To join, interested students must accomplish an application form and produce a 2 minute video of them expressing their chosen NISSINdividuality and talents related to it.

3. Complete contest mechanics