PHILIPPINES RISING (Taga Monumento)

IWD Centennial, March 8, 2011

2011-03-08T14:02:00.004+08:00

8 March 2011

Happy International Women's Day to all women and girls in the world!

Today, March 8, 2011, is the 100th year observance of IWD or International Women's Day.

I wrote some of our Senators regarding this matter but, unfortunately, has not received any encouraging response. I hope that changes soon.

Hopefully, too, President Aquino will also proclaim 2011 as The Year of the Global Filipina.

Caloocan City Residents Proclaim Andres Bonifacio as Unang Pangulo ng Pilipinas

2010-12-01T08:55:00.005+08:00

1 December 2010 9:04am

During yesterday's celebration of Bonifacio Day, residents of Heroes del 96 in Caloocan City together with colleagues in the re-launched Caloocan Historical Society have proclaimed Andres Bonifacio as Unang Pangulo ng Pilipinas in very simple rites at the Bonifacio Monument.

Led by Rolly Ocampo, ordinary citizens of Caloocan City did what probably has never been done before, that is, to march and shout in the streets and to publicly declare Gat Andres Bonifacio, the Great Plebeian and Father of the Filipino Nation, as the First President of the Philippines.

More pictures from the event when I return.

Nadal Wins The 2010 US Open Against Novak Djokovic, 6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-2

2010-09-14T09:47:00.007+08:00

14 September 2010 10:03am Manila time, 4:03 Mallorca Spain time

Rafael Nadal takes his first US Open title winning over a gallant but visibly exhausted Novak Djokovic, 6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-2.

Djokovic had been asked to dispose of Roger Federer in a gruelling five-set match and he did that! -- and then he had to dispatch the world's no. 1 who is playing at the top of his game. It proved to be an impossible task even for the incredibly talented Serb.

As Djokovic makes his last shot ending the game, Rafa slides on the hard court, stretches his body, covers his eyes with his hands then rolls over sobbing, an outpouring of emotions over the most significant victory of his career.

With the victory, Nadal makes history for himself, completing his first career Grand Slam and becoming the seventh male tennis player in history to accomplish the feat. The six others before him were Fred Perry, Don Budge, Rod Laver, Roy Emerson, Andre Agassi and Roger Federer.

With the victory, Nadal makes undisputable his claim to being one of the greatest tennis players in history. That's for now. Next will be his quest to overtake Roger Federer as the greatest tennis player in history. Viva Rafa!

Frankie "The Answer" Edgar Dominates BJ Penn in UFC 118

2010-08-29T12:42:00.003+08:00

29 August 2010 12:38pm Manila time

Frankie Edgar gave a definitive answer to the question of who is the best MMA lightweight in the world when he dominated the legendary BJ Penn every step of the way in their UFC 118 rematch in Boston.

With his devastating win, Edgar also stakes his claim to two more titles, the first being the greatest UFC lightweight of all time held by BJ Penn and the other, the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world which is a toss up between welterweight champion George St. Pierre and the middleweight champion Anderson Silva.

MMA fighters will do well to emulate Frankie Edgar's technique of constantly moving from side to side of his opponent, backing away when necessary, but always ready to stick a jab here and a kick there, while avoiding to get hit and tagged by counterpunches. He showed tremendous cardio, took down BJ Penn several times with relative ease and more importantly, displayed the strength and ability to escape twice when BJ brought him to the mat.

There were doubters in Abu Dhabi in UFC 112 but now, the bellwether of the future of the UFC has definitely arrived and his name is Frankie "The Answer" Edgar!

Miss Philippines Maria Venus Raj Reaches Miss Universe 2010 Finals, Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete Is Miss Universe 2010

2010-08-24T10:39:00.007+08:00

24 August 2010 10:38am

Maria Venus Raj, the Philippine candidate has reached the top five of the Miss Universe pageant at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, USA. The Philippines was the last country named by the hosts and the announcement was greeted with a loud cheer by Filipinos in the audience.

Venus' greatest asset, apart from her exotic beauty is her insuperable confidence. I am apprehensive, however, that her weak answer to judge William Baldwin's question, "What is one big mistake in your life and what did you do to make it right?" might cost her the Miss Universe crown. I hope I'm wrong and as I write this sentence (10:42am), the hosts are now back to announce the winners of Miss Universe 2010.

They're now having one last look at the Miss Universe finalists in their evening gown (10:43am). The crowd cheers loudest when Venus' name is called.

The outgoing Miss Universe is now making her final farewell (10:45am). The program pauses for a commercial break. When they return, Stefania Fernandez will crown Miss Universe 2010.

The hosts are now thanking the judges and sponsors (10:49am).

Venus is announced as the 4th runner-up -- a terrible disappointment!

Ukraine, 3rd runner-up, Australia, 2nd runner-up. It's now a toss up between Mexico and Jamaica.

Jamaica is 1st runner-up. Miss Mexico, Jimena Navarrete, is Miss Universe 2010! (10:51am).

Supreme Court Issues TRO on SLEX Toll Fee Increase and VAT Imposition

2010-08-13T14:42:00.005+08:00

13 August 2010

The Supreme Court has reportedly issued temporary restraining orders that will prevent the implementation of the toll fee increase in the SLEX as well as the imposition of VAT on toll fees on Monday. The government was given ten days to submit its comments. This is according to a flash report by Nelson Lubao, Radyo Patrol Number 33 of DZMM. It's now 2:40pm, Manila time.

We saw in last night's news reports the apparent impotence of the Senate Finance Committee chaired by Senator Ralph Recto in persuading the BIR to accept the Senate's position that the VAT on toll fees is an illegal exaction. It's now up to the Supreme Court to lay down the final word on this matter.

Supreme Court Issues TRO on SLEX Toll Fee Increase and VAT Imposition

2010-08-13T14:42:00.000+08:00

Chael Sonnen Nearly Demolishes Anderson Silva, Silva Escapes with a Last Minute Triangle Choke

2010-08-08T12:29:00.008+08:00

8 August 2010, 12:27pm, Manila time

As I write, there's just a few seconds left in second round of the Chael Sonnen - Anderson Silva UFC middleweight championship bout. The second round has just ended wherein Sonnen landed punishing blows to Silva's face after taking him down early in the round.

It's now the third round and early on after some shots by Silva, Chael takes him down again. On top of Anderson Silva, Sonnen rains a flurry of knees and multiple shots on the face. If this trend doesn't change, Silva with end this night with Chael Sonnen snatching his middleweight belt. In addition, on the line is Anderson Silva's unblemished record of 11 straight wins in the octagon. This is now a battle of attrition with Anderson Silva on the losing end. The round is winding up but the gradual beating he's getting from Chael Sonnen is sure to eat up his strength and perhaps even more importantly, his confidence.

Anderson Silva caught Chael Sonnen with some big shots early in the fourth round but Chael Sonnen survives the flurry and is now on top of Anderson Silva again with 3:10 remaining in the round raining shots again on the face of the champion. The crowd is chanting "USA, USA, USA ...!" expecting a win by the American Chael Sonnen. Round 4 ends with Chael Sonnen taking every opportunity -- even small ones -- to punish Anderson Silva.

The replay shows a right elbow by Anderson Silva catching Chael Sonnen on the face.

Start of Round 5. Chael Sonnen rocks Anderson Silva with a right sending him to the canvas. The pattern continues, with more than 4 minutes remaining, Anderson Silva is once again a target to Chael Sonnen's relentless ground and pound. With 2:50 remaining, Chael rains down punches on Anderson's face. With a little over 2 minutes remaining, Chael Sonnen appears ready to wear Anderson Silva's UFC middleweight belt.

But in what is easily one of the UFC's most dramatic escape finishes, with less than two minutes remaining in the bout, Anderson manages to squeeze his left leg over Chael Sonnen's head and from there, implemented a triangle choke forcing the American to tap.

The Iglesia Ni Cristo Celebrates Its 96th Anniversary

2010-07-27T11:32:00.003+08:00

27 July 2010

Today marks the 96th anniversary of the founding of the Iglesia Ni Cristo. Best wishes to all Iglesia Ni Cristo brethren on this joyous occasion. This is the first INC anniversary under the leadership of Executive Minister Eduardo V. Manalo.

Special greetings to my good friend Vic Mendoza and his entire family!

Mabuhay po kayong lahat and God bless!

Classes Suspended (No Classes) in Preschool, Elementary and High School in Metro Manila and 15 Other Areas, July 14, 2010 (Wednesday)

2010-07-13T23:28:00.009+08:00

13 July 2010 11:20pm

Children, you might already know about it but here it is anyway.

Classes are suspended Wednesday July 14, 2010 in the preschool, elementary and high school in Metro Manila and the following areas: Bulacan, Pangasinan, Tarlac, Zambales, Pampanga, Bataan, Batangas, Laguna, Lubang Island, Cavite, Nueva Ecija, Aurora, Rizal, Northern. Quezon, Camarines Norte. Signal no. 2 of typhoon Basyang has been raised over these areas.

Classes are also suspended in the preschool level in the following areas (signal no. 1): Catanduanes, Camarines Sur, Rest of Quezon, Marinduque, Nueva Vizcaya, Isabela, Ifugao, Benguet, La Union

My source for the news is Saksi at GMA 7.

Stay safe and God bless po to all of you!

Chiz Escudero Is Running for President in 2010

2009-10-12T19:11:00.002+08:00

12 October 2009

In a brief interview with Karen Davila aired in tonight's editin of TV Patrol, Senator Chiz Escudero announced that he is running for the presidency in 2010. Chiz said that his decision to run was further firmed up after he saw the extent of the destruction brought to Northern Luzon by typhoon Pepeng.

Overstaying Typhoon Pepeng Brings Disaster, Humanitarian Crisis to Northern and Central Luzon, October 9 - 10, 2009

2009-10-09T21:28:00.008+08:00

9 - 10 October 2009

Pepeng has long ago ceased to be the super typhoon that it once was but just when many people in Northern Luzon and Central Luzon thought the worst was over came disaster from the strong rains it brought worsened by the release of water in several dams in the area.

Worse hit in terms of flooding is the province of Pangasinan where 30 out of 48 towns are under water.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

But in terms of human lives lost, the areas hardest hit are Baguio, Benguet and La Union.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

The devastation is such that it takes a considerable amount of effort simply to keep track of what's happening where.

This is the satellite image of Pepeng as of 9:00 am, October 10, 2009.

As of 4:00 am, October 10, 2009, tropical depression Pepeng was located 240 kms west southwest of Vigan City moving West at 13kph in the direction of Vietnam.

Severe Weather Bulletin Number THIRTY-NINE
Tropical Cyclone Warning: TROPICAL DEPRESSION "PEPENG" (PARMA)
Issued at 5:00 a.m., Saturday, 10 October 2009
Tropical Depression "PEPENG" continues to move away from the country.
Location of Center: (as of 4:00 a.m.)	240 kms West Southwest of Vigan City
Coordinates:	17.2°N, 118.1°E
Strength:	Maximum sustained winds of 55 kph near center
Movement:	Forecast to move West at 13 kph
Forecast Positions/Outlook:	Sunday morning: 510 kms West of Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

We join the nation in praying for and in contributing to the relief effort for our countrymen who suffered and are still suffering because of typhoon Pepeng and storm Ondoy.

Typhoons Pepeng and Quedan Converge on the Philippines, October 5, 2009

2009-10-05T22:47:00.000+08:00

5 October 2009

In my last update yesterday to my post on erstwhile super typhoon Pepeng, this is what I wrote:

FUJIWHARA EFFECT OR
FUJIWARA INTERACTION

In the meantime, you might want to take a look at this Pagasa update on typhoon Pepeng courtesy of GMANews.tv. The 24 Oras video clip was posted at the GMA News website at 8:19pm.

It shows Dr. Nathaniel Cruz of Pagasa discussing with Mel Tiangco the possibility of typhoon Pepeng remaining more or less stationary for the next two or three days. He attributed this phenomenon to the presence of a high pressure area in China and the approach of the typhoon Melor farther out in the Pacific. These two factors combine to force typhoon Pepeng to stay more or less where it is right now. Dr. Cruz explained that after typhoon Melor enters the Philippine area of responsibility within the next day or two, it will then turn northward and only after that will typhoon Pepeng be able to move away from its present position. The phenomenon is known as the Fujiwhara effect or Fujiwara interaction named after the Japanese meteorologist who first described it in a 1921 paper about the motion of vortices in water.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

Before Pepeng eventually moves away from its present position, it is expected to swing back and pass over Northern Luzon anew, according to Dr. Cruz.

Typhoons Pepeng and Quedan (international codename Melor) have actually managed be within the Philippine area of responsibility at the same time when Quedan entered the Philippine area of responsibility this afternoon.

Pepeng was located at 4 this afternoon at around 220 kms. North northwest of Laoag, Ilocos Norte with maximum sustained winds 105 kph and gustiness of 135 kph. It is expected to remain stationary for about two days. Quedan at 4pm was situated at 1,130 kms. East southeast of Basco, Batanes with maximum sustained winds of 205 kph and gustiness of 250 kph. It is expected to move West northwest at 26 kph.

More on this story in this News on Q report featuring a discussion of the two typhoons among Dr. Nathaniel Cruz of Pagasa, Lala Roque and Ivan Mayrina.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

HEAD Statement on the 2010 National Health Budget of the Philippines

2009-10-03T20:29:00.002+08:00

3 October 2009

I received by email the following media release from the Health Alliance for Democracy (HEAD) through Dr. Gene Nisperos, Vice Chair of HEAD. I reproduce it below in its entirety.

Health Alliance for Democracy (HEAD)
2/F Doña Anita Bldg, 284 E. Rodriguez Ave., Quezon City
Telefax: (02) 725 4760 Email: headphil@gmail.com

Media Release
17 September 2009

The 2010 National Health Budget: Bigger Numbers, Smaller Value!

Once again, the Arroyo government is shortchanging the Filipino people by allocating a paltry budget that is grossly inadequate.

Health Alliance for Democracy (HEAD) today joined health professionals and hospital workers in a brief rally at the Philippine General Hospital to highlight the inequities of the 2010 national budget and denounce the continuing failure of the Arroyo administration to address the needs of patients and healthcare providers.

“The 2010 health reflects the total abandonment by the Arroyo government of its obligation to uphold the health of the people.” According to Dr. Geneve Rivera, HEAD secretary-general.

The proposed national budget for 2010 is a whopping P1.541 trillion, which is P115 billion higher than the P1.426 trillion 2009 national budget. While debt servicing again gets the biggest allocation, amounting to some P340.8 billion, the amount allocated for health is only P33.678 billion or 2.2% of the national budget.

Worse, according to HEAD, the numbers are misleading.

“The actual budget of the DOH is only P23.737 billion, almost the same as its budget last year. After considering inflation and peso depreciation, the actual value of this budget is much lower.” added Dr. Rivera. “This translates to 252.49 pesos per Filipino per year, which is not even enough for one month’s supply of an anti-hypertensive or anti-ulcer drug!”

HEAD also noted that the substantial increase in the DOH budget is in the Health Facilities Enhancement Program (P3.2 billion). This, together with another P6.156 billion (25.9%) for capital outlay, is directly associated to the department’s preparation for medical tourism, which it continues to promote abroad.

In contrast, only P16M is allocated for indigent patients in all DOH hospitals. If P2000 is spent on each patient, only around 8000 patients will benefit from this, or less than 0.01% of the population!

Scrutiny also shows that there is still nothing in the budget to keep nurses and health workers from leaving the country in droves.

“Notably absent from the budget is the allocation for the implementation of the Nursing Act of 2002 and the Magna Carta of Public Health Workers. Both laws provide for additional income and benefits for nurses and health workers, measures that would help convince them to stay and serve the patients here.”

Both laws, which may stem the exodus of health personnel, have yet to be fully implemented by the national government.

“The health budget measures how little the Arroyo administration cares for the Filipino people. The poor and the sick have no place in a country under the rule of Mrs. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. This must change.” ###

References:
Dr. Geneve E. Rivera
Secretary-General, 0920 460 3712

Dr. Gene Alzona Nisperos
Vice-Chair, 0916 214 5724

I believe that the message that HEAD wants to impart is even more timely now than when the media release was first issued two weeks ago on September 17, 2009.

The devastation wrought by storm Ondoy has few comparison in terms of human loss but in terms of damage to our public hospital facilities in areas like the eastern section of Metro Manila and Rizal, it is probably unprecedented. This throws overboard a lot of the information that was factored into the national health budgeting process and requires new calculations to be made.

In this article, GMA News reports about the damage sustained by four DOH hospitals namely the Amang Rodriguez Medical Center, the East Avenue Medical Center, the Tondo Medical Center and the National Center for Mental Health. Worse hit was the Amang Rodriguez Medical Center which serves the needs of approximately 2.6 million people in Marikina, Antipolo, Pasig, Cainta, San Mateo and Rodriguez.

FYI, these are the DOH hospitals listed in the DOH website:

DOH Hospitals

Philippine Children's Medical Center
Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
National Kidney and Transplant Institute
East Avenue, Quezon City
Lung Center of the Philippines
Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
Philippine Heart Center
East Avenue, Quezon City
Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center
Rizal Avenue,Sta. Cruz, Manila
- Department of Urology, JRRMMC
San Lazaro Hospital
Quiricada, Manila
- (SACCL)
Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital
Lope de Vega, Manila
East Avenue Medical Center
National Reference Laboratory
East Avenue, Quezon City
Philippine Orthopedic Center
Banawe, Quezon City
National Center for Mental Health
Mandaluyong City
National Children's Hospital
E. Rodriguez, Quezon City
Tondo Medical Center
Balut, Tondo, Manila
Quirino Memorial Medical Center
Project 4, Quezon City
Amang Rodriguez Medical Center
Marikina City
Rizal Medical Center
Pasig City
Research Institute for Tropical Medicine
Filinvest Corporate City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City
Las Piñas General Hospital and Satellite Trauma Center
Las Piñas City
Valenzuela Medical Center
Karuhatan, Valenzuela City
Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital
Tala, Caloocan City

Batanes Regional Hospital
Basco, Batanes
Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center
San Fernando, La Union
Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center
Batac, Ilocos Norte
Region I Medical Center
Dagupan City, Pangasinan
Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center
BGHMC Cmpd., Baguio City
Luis Hora Memorial Hospital
Abatan, Bauko, Mt. Province
Conner District Hospital
Conner, Apayao
Far North General Hospital and Training Center
Quirino, Luna, Apayao
Cagayan Valley Medical Center
Tuguegarao, Cagayan
Veterans Regional Hospital
Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya
Southern Isabela General Hospital
Santiago City
Paulino J. Garcia Memorial Research and Medical Center
Cabanatuan City
Jose B. Lingad Memorial Regional Hospital
San Fernando, Pampanga
Talavera Extension Hospital
Talavera, Nueva Ecija
Bataan General Hospital
Balanga, Bataan
Batangas Regional Hospital
Batangas City
Ospital ng Palawan
Puerto Princesa City
Culion Sanitarium
Culion, Palawan
Bicol Medical Center
Naga City
Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital
Legaspi City
Bicol Sanitarium
Cabusao, Camarines Sur
Western Visayas Medical Center
Mandurriao, Iloilo City
Don Jose Monfort Medical Center Extension Hospital
Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo
Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital
Bacolod City
Western Visayas Sanitarium
Sta. Barabara, Iloilo
Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center
Cebu City
Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center
Tagbilaran City
St. Anthony Mother and Child Hospital
Cebu City
Eversely Child Sanitarium
Mandaue City
Talisay District Hospital Talisay, Cebu
Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center Tacloban City
Schistosomiasis Control and Research Hospital
Palo, Leyte
Zamboanga City Medical Center
Zamboanga City
- ZCMC-HEMS
Dr. Jose Rizal Memorial Hospital
Lawa-an, Dapitan City
MINDANAO CENTRAL SANITARIUM
Pasobolong, Zamboanga City
BASILAN GENERAL HOSPITAL
Isabela, Basilan
MARGOSATUBIG REGIONAL HOSPITAL
Margosatubig, Zamboanga del Sur
LABUAN PUBLIC HOSPITAL
Labuan, Zamboanga del Sur
SULU SANITARIUM
Jolo, Sulu
NORTHERN MINDANAO MEDICAL CENTER
Capitol Cmpd., Cagayan de Oro City
HILARION A. RAMIRO SR. REGIONAL AND TEACHING AND TRAINING HOSPITAL
Ozamis City
CAMIGUIN GENERAL HOSPITAL
Mambajao, Camiguin
DAVAO REGIONAL HOSPITAL
Tagum, Davao del Norte
DAVAO MEDICAL CENTER
Davao City
COTABATO REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER
Sinsuat Ave., Cotabato City
COTABATO SANITARIUM
Brgy. Pinaring, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao
AMAI PAKPAK MEDICAL CENTER
Marawi, Cotabato City
CARAGA REGIONAL HOSPITAL
Surigao City
ADELA SERRA TY MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER
Tandag, Surigao del Sur

The immense setback to our public hospital facilities can only mean that the figures cited by HEAD mean more today than they did two weeks ago. And this is only in terms of the physical infrastructure alone. The P16M cited by HEAD with respect to allocation for indigent patients in DOH hospitals is even more horrendously inadequate.

The complexity alone of public evacuation measures in times of national calamities which require evacuation facilities, relief operations, sanitation facilities and public health measures dictate that these factors should be taken into account in formulating the 2010 national health budget. For sure the budget for this type of operations is borne by several government agencies but the capabilities of the DOH in this regard should be considerably strengthened.

As a nation, we need to join hands to avert a national health disaster.

For once, the issue of debt servicing which gets by far the biggest chunk of the national budget needs to be thrust into the forthcoming national discussion of election issues. If we Filipinos want a bigger budget for health, education and other social services, we have to grapple now with the longstanding issue of debt servicing. To fail to do so would guarantee a continuing abject failure to exact from government even the minimum basic services that our people badly need.

GMA News Salutes Lando Bie, Marikina's Angel of Mercy, Who Saved 100 Neighbors from Ondoy Floodwaters, Including Wife and Children of Erstwhile Foe

2009-10-02T08:37:00.012+08:00

2 October 2009

Today, we join GMA News and the Filipino nation in celebrating Lando Bie, Marikina's Angel of Mercy, who risked his life to save a hundred of our countrymen from certain death brought by Ondoy's floodwaters injuring himself in the process.

Lando saved Melanie Dacuycoy and her children by bringing them to the roof of their house. Melanie is eight-month pregnant and is the wife of Lando's erstwhile foe.

Explained Cesar Apolinario: "Nasugatan sa kaliwang binti si Rolando Bie nung kasagsagan ng pananalasa ng baha Linggo nang gabi. Kagagaling lang ni Mang Lando sa ospital pero dahil hindi raw kayang gamutin doon, balik evacuation center siya. Kuwento ni Melanie na walong buwang buntis, si Mang Lando ang nagligtas sa kaniya at tatlong anak nang ma-stranded sa loob ng kanilang bahay. Binuhat sila ni Mang Lando at dinala sa bubong. Nakasamaan daw ng loob ng kanyang asawa si Mang Lando noong isang taon at pinagbantaan pa silang papatayin dahil sa alitan sa bahay."

Melanie Dacuycoy: "Sa kabila po ng alitan, pagdating po sa kalamidad ... hindi na po n'ya iinisip. Akala ko nga po di na kami maliligtas eh. Yung paa ko po di na maitaas, sa lamig."

Cesar Apolinario: "Na-trap din si Kris Rubio at limang anak sa kanilang bahay nung kasagsagan ng baha. To the rescue si Mang Lando, binuhat ang mag-iina at dinala sa bubong."

Kris Rubio: "Akala po namin hindi na po kami makaalis. Kasi ... nasa tubig na po kami. Buti na lang po pumunta po siya sa amin, binuksan niya yung pinto."

Cesar Apolinario: "Mahigit isandaang kapitbahay para raw ang nailigtas ni Mang Lando. Nagbahay-bahay para kunin ang mga nangangailangan ng tulong. Huli raw niyang nasagip ang isang bata, kahit tinamaan na ng bakal sa paa. Kaya naman bilang ganti, pinalakpakan si Mang Lando ng kanyang mga kapitbahay."

After his heroic effort, Lando could not eat for 4 days and he could not walk because of his injured, swollen foot.

Lando Bie may not look the part but he is a veritable angel of mercy. We've all read about the parables of the good shepherd and the good Samaritan. Many people preach it but Lando Bie lived the essence of those parables that one fateful, stormy Sunday night in disaster-stricken Marikina City with utter disregard for his own safety. He rescued not just one lost sheep but a hundred! He passed by those who needed help and tarried until they were all safe.

Bagyo sa pagtulong itong si Lando Bie. Bagyo rin sanang pagpapala ang anihin niya at ng kanyang mga mahal sa buhay!

God bless Lando Bie!

Pepeng Now Called a Super Typhoon — Pinoys Praying That It Will Spare the Country, Evening of October 1, 2009 (UPDATED Oct 4 2009)

2009-10-01T23:13:00.039+08:00

1 October 2009 11:18pm

Pepeng is now being called a super typhoon. I just watched the weather forecast at ABS-CBN's Bandila a few moments ago and they're saying that Pepeng (international codename Parma) has maximum sustained winds of 195 kph with gustiness of 230 kph. Technically, those statistics do not quite categorize Pepeng as a super typhoon.

This is the Wikipedia article on Tropical Cyclone. It says that a super typhoon needs 10-minute sustained winds of 213 kph and above.

Earlier, CNN's Jennifer Delgado made this weather forecast saying Pepeng or Parma has maximum sustained winds of 241 kph with gustiness of 296 kph. If true, those figures would make Pepeng a super typhoon. The CNN video clip below has been posted at youtube.

In any event, the plain reality is that one really won't know much of a difference between a near-super typhoon and a super typhoon. Both would have far more devastating power than anyone would want to face out there in the open.

And this time, our government is not taking any chances. Defense Secretary and NDCC Chair Gilbert "Gibo" Teodoro has ordered "preemptive evacuation" of people living in flood-prone areas and landslide-prone areas. The evacuation will be forcible when that becomes necessary. Properly implemented, this is obviously the correct approach — it is always better to err on the side of caution.

Meanwhile, three possible scenarios are being looked at with respect to Pepeng. The map below shows this scenarios:

The first scenario is represented by the red line wherein Pepeng will continue on its west nortwest route and make landfall in the area between Aurora and Isabela. The second scenario, represented by the blue line, sees Pepeng making landfall near the same area but veering south west and straddling Central and Northern Luzon as it makes its way to the South China Sea. The third is the no-landfall scenario which sees Pepeng veering to the north while still in the Pacific Ocean sparing Luzon and proceeding to the general area of Taiwan.

Storm signal no. 2 has been hoisted over Catanduanes (the Philippine province now nearest Pepeng) while signal no. 1 is now raised over Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Albay, Burias Island, Quezon, Polillo Island, Aurora, Sorsogon and Northern Samar.

As Pepeng continues its slow but steady approach towards the Philippines, Filipinos are one in praying that this super typhoon will spare our country. Pinoys are known for their hospitality but Pepeng is one deadly visitor we can very well afford to be without.

UPDATE

2 October 2009 7:13am

These are Pepeng storm signals as of Friday, October 2, 2009 7:13am based on information from Umagang Kay Ganda:

Signal No. 2 (winds from 61 - 100 kph)

Catanduanes

Camarines Norte

Northern Quezon

Aurora

Polillo Island

Signal No. 1 (winds from 30 - 60 kph)

Ilocos Norte

Ilocos Sur

Abra

Apayao

Kalinga

Cagayan including Babuyan Islands

Isabela

Mt Province

Ifugao

Benguet

La Union

Nueva Vizccaya

Quirino

Pangasinan

Nueva Ecija

Tarlac

Zambales

Pampanga

Bulacan

Rizal

Southern Quezon

Camarines Sur

Albay

Sorsogon

Burias Island

SATELLITE IMAGE UPDATE

2 October 2009 10:08am

This is the Pagasa satellite image of super typhoon Pepeng as of 10:00 am today:

MGA PAGHAHANDA PARA SA BAGYONG PEPENG

Ang bagyong Pepeng po ay inaasahang nagtataglay ng malalakas na hangin at malamang rin na magbitbit ng malakas na pag-ulan dahil bumagal po ang circulation nito at pinaniniwalaang humihigop ng mas maraming tubig mula sa Pacific Ocean. Huwag po nating tsambahan ang pagsalubong sa super typhoon na ito.

Pinakikiusapan po ang ating mga kababayan na gumawa ng lahat ng kinakailangang paghahanda at pag-iingat kaugnay ng super typhoon Pepeng:

1) Lumikas na po ang lahat ng mga kababayan natin na dapat lumikas. Kung kayo ay nakatira sa bahaing lugar o lugar na maaaring gumuho, mangyari lang po na humanap na muna kayo ng ibang lugar kung saan puwedeng dalhin ang inyong mga pamilya. Sumunod po tayo sa mga awtoridad na magsasagawa ng "preemptive evacuation" katulad ng AFP at PNP na maaaring sumundo po sa atin para makalikas sa mga evacuation centers.

2) Iayos na po ang ating mga kabahayan, lalo na yung mga bubong habang paparating pa lang ang bagyo.

3) Magtabi na po ng mga makakain at inuming tubig para sa panahon na hindi na tayo makakalabas ng bahay kapag nandiyan na ang bagyo. Siguruhing meron tayong mga kandila, posporo, flashlights at batteries kung sakaling magkaroon ng brownouts.

4) Imonitor ang lagay ng panahon gamit ang radyo, TV, internet at iba pang communication facilities upang mabatid ang nangyayari sa ating paligid.

5) Tiyaking lahat ng miyembro ng pamilya ay ligtas at alam natin ang kalagayan sa buong sandali ng pagdaan ng bagyo. Ipagpaliban na muna ang paglabas ng bahay kung hindi rin lang emergency ang mga ito. Pati po ang mga alaga nating hayop ay tiyakin natin ang kaligtasan.

6) Siguruhing fully-charged ang ating mga cellphones at may sapat na load bago tumama ang bagyo. Yun pong mga cellphones ni Cristine Reyes ang nagsilbing tulay upang makahingi siya ng tulong habang nasa bubong ng bahay nila sa Provident Village na nagligtas ng buhay niya at ng kanyang pamilya.

7) Iiwas na ang lahat ng gamit na puwedeng bahain lalo na yung mga importanteng dokumento. Kung meron po kayong mga sasakyan na puwedeng abutin ng tubig at putik, ilikas na po ang mga ito sa mas matataas at ligtas na lugar.

8) Higit sa lahat, ipagpatuloy po natin ang pagdarasal sa Diyos na ilayo ang ating bansa sa delubyo at ang ating mga mahal sa buhay sa peligro.

Ingat po kayong lahat! Mabuhay ang Pinoy! Papuri sa Panginoon!

SATELLITE IMAGE UPDATE

2 October 2009 3:33 pm

This is the Pagasa satellite image of super typhoon Pepeng as of 3:00 pm today, Friday, October 2, 2009:

please click on the image to enlarge

SATELLITE IMAGE UPDATE

2 October 2009 10:47 pm

This is the Pagasa satellite image of super typhoon Pepeng as of 10:00 pm today, Friday, October 2, 2009:end

Kim Atienza reporting for ABS-CBN from Pagasa reports on a major development in the direction of super typhoon Pepeng.

In an answer to prayers from millions of Pinoys, Pepeng has taken a more northerly route that would allow it to miss the expected Aurora - Isabela landfall area and veer instead towards northeastern Cagayan.

A miracle will save much of the Philippines from the wrath of super typhoon Pepeng.

PEPENG MAKES LANDFALL

3 October 2009 7:55 pm

It breaks my heart to make this post update.

Much of the Philippines indeed has been spared from the wrath of super typhoon Pepeng, especially the calamity-stricken areas of eastern Metro Manila and Rizal but our countrymen in northern Luzon are now bearing the 175 kph winds of this powerful howler.

Super typhoon Pepeng is not so super anymore but it still packed enough power to uproot trees and topple power posts.

Pepeng first made landfall in Cagayan province before 3pm today, Saturday, October 3, 2009. According to this GMA News flash report by Claire Delfin, Pepeng picked up speed just before it made landfall, from 17 kph to 24 kph, and changed direction, from Northwest to West-northwest. The compass rose below gives us an idea of the change in direction made by Pepeng.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

GMA News carries this article, Pepeng’ plunges NE Luzon into darkness; 4 people killed, in its website. It said in part, "Areas in northeastern Luzon were shrouded in darkness when typhoon Pepeng unleashed its wrath, carrying strong winds that killed at least four people, displaced hundreds, destroyed agricultural crops, and made major thoroughfares impassable beginning Saturday afternoon."

As Pepeng made landfall in Cagayan, other areas in Northern Luzon felt the sting of the powerful typhoon's fury.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

These are the prevailing storm signals as of 8pm, October 3, 2009:

Signal No. 3 (winds from 100 - 185 kph)

Cagayan

Babuyan Island

Calayan Island

Northern Isabela

Ilocos Norte

Ilocos Sur

Mt. Province

Abra

Apayao

Kalinga

Batanes

Signal No. 2 (winds from 60 - 100 kph)

Rest of Isabela

Ifugao

Nueva Vizccaya

Benguet

La Union

Signal No. 1 (winds from 30 - 60 kph)

Quirino

Aurora

Pangasinan

Nueva Ecija

PEPENG ALMOST STATIONARY

NORTH OF LAOAG CITY, MORNING

AND AFTERNOON OF OCTOBER 4, 2009

4 October 2009 4:35 pm

As of 11:00 am today, Sunday, October 4, 2009, typhoon Pepeng was located 80 kms. North Northwest of Laoag City with maximum sustained winds of 120 kph and gustiness up to 150 kph.

Typhoon Pepeng (Parma) is almost stationary as it interacts with typhoon Melor which is expected to enter the fringes of the Philippine area of responsibility on its way to Japan.

Severe Weather Bulletin Number SIXTEEN
Tropical Cyclone Warning: TYPHOON "PEPENG" (PARMA)
Issued at 11:00 a.m., Sunday, 04 October 2009
Typhoon "PEPENG" is moving slowly as it interacted with the Typhoon (MELOR) in the Pacific.
Location of Center: (as of 10:00 a.m.)	80 km North Northwest of Laoag City
Coordinates:	18.9°N, 120.1°E
Strength:	Maximum sustained winds of 120 kph near center and gustiness of up to 150 kph
Movement:	Forecast to remain almost stationary
Forecast Positions/Outlook:	Monday morning: 120 km North Northwest of Laoag City Tuesday morning: 160 km Northwest of Laoag City Wednesday morning: 200 km West Northwest of Laoag City

These are the GMA News reports on the destruction wrought by typhoon Pepeng in Northern Luzon:

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

PEPENG SITUATED 150 KMS. NORTH NORTHWEST OF LAOAG CITY, 5PM, OCT 4, 2009

4 October 2009 5:19 pm

From 10 o'clock this morning to 5 o'clock this afternoon, a period of 7 hours, typhoon Pepeng has moved 70 kms in a west northwest direction.

Severe Weather Bulletin Number SEVENTEEN
Tropical Cyclone Warning: TYPHOON "PEPENG" (PARMA)
Issued at 5:00 p.m., Sunday, 04 October 2009
Typhoon "PEPENG" has moved slowly towards the west northwest direction.
Location of Center: (as of 4:00 p.m.)	150 kms North Northwest of Laoag City
Coordinates:	19.6°N, 119.7°E
Strength:	Maximum sustained winds of 120 kph near center and gustiness of up to 150 kph
Movement:	Forecast to remain almost stationary
Forecast Positions/Outlook:	Monday afternoon: 210 kms Northwest of Laoag City Tuesday afternoon: 230 kms North Northwest of Laoag City Wednesday afternoon: 240 kms West of Laoag City

This is the Pagasa satellite image as of 5pm.

These are the prevailing storm signals as of 8pm, October 3, 2009:

Signal No. 3 (winds from 100 - 185 kph)

Batanes Group of Islands

Northern Cagayan

Babuyan Islands

Calayan Islands

Ilocos Norte

Apayao

Signal No. 2 (winds from 60 - 100 kph)

Ilocos Sur

Abra

Kalinga

Rest of Cagayan

Signal No. 1 (winds from 30 - 60 kph)

La Union

Benguet

Mt. Province

Northern Isabela

AUTOMATIC SUSPENSION OF CLASSES IN TYPHOON-AFFECTED AREAS

4 October 2009 11:14pm

This is the Pagasa satellite image of typhoon Pepeng as of 11pm, Sunday, October 4, 2009. The typhoon was located at 200 kms. North northwest of Laoag City as of 10pm, October 4.

The storm warning signals have not changed since 8pm. In the absence of any order from your local officials (mayors or governors), the following areas will have automatic class suspensions for both public and private schools for Monday, October 5, 2009, based on DepEd Order No. 26, s. 2006:

Areas under Signal No. 3 - Classes suspended at ALL levels

Batanes Group of Islands

Northern Cagayan

Babuyan Islands

Calayan Islands

Ilocos Norte

Apayao

Areas under Signal No. 2 - Classes suspended at the preschool, elementary and high school

Ilocos Sur

Abra

Kalinga

Rest of Cagayan

Signal No. 1 - Classes suspended at the preschool level

La Union

Benguet

Mt. Province

Northern Isabela

I just heard from TV Patrol the announcement that classes are suspended at all levels for public schools tomorrow, Monday, October 5, 2009 in Taguig City. We still have to confirm this announcement.

FUJIWHARA EFFECT OR

FUJIWARA INTERACTION

In the meantime, you might want to take a look at this Pagasa update on typhoon Pepeng courtesy of GMANews.tv. The 24 Oras video clip was posted at the GMA News website at 8:19pm.

It shows Dr. Nathaniel Cruz of Pagasa discussing with Mel Tiangco the possibility of typhoon Pepeng remaining more or less stationary for the next two or three days. He attributed this phenomenon to the presence of a high pressure area in China and the approach of the typhoon Melor farther out in the Pacific. These two factors combine to force typhoon Pepeng to stay more or less where it is right now. Dr. Cruz explained that after typhoon Melor enters the Philippine area of responsibility within the next day or two, it will then turn northward and only after that will typhoon Pepeng be able to move away from its present position. The phenomenon is known as the Fujiwhara effect or Fujiwara interaction named after the Japanese meteorologist who first described it in a 1921 paper about the motion of vortices in water.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

Before Pepeng eventually moves away from its present position, it is expected to swing back and pass over Northern Luzon anew, according to Dr. Cruz.

In \\n

I d

end

Near-Super Typhoon Pepeng Approaches Philippines — Signal No. 1 Up Over Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur and Catanduanes, October 1, 2009

2009-10-01T15:10:00.006+08:00

1 October 2009

Even as the Philippines reels from the terrible onslaught of tropical storm Ondoy, another weather disturbance threatens the country. Near-super typhoon Pepeng which has maximum sustained winds twice the speed of Ondoy's has entered the Philippine area of responsibility.

Just before noon today, typhoon Pepeng was spotted 520 kms. east of Borongan, Eastern Samar packing sustained winds of 175 kph and gustiness reaching 210 kph moving west northwest in the general direction of Northern Luzon.

The approach of Pepeng, with the international name Parma, has prompted Pagasa to raise storm signal no. 1 over the Bicol region specifically in Camarines, Norte, Camarines Sur and Catanduanes.

More on this story in these reports courtesy of GMA News:

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

end

More Than Half a Million of Our Fellow Pinoys Victims of Storm Ondoy are Still in Evacuation Centers, October 1, 2009

2009-10-01T11:57:00.006+08:00

1 October 2009

The destruction brought by tropical storm Ondoy has been such that more than half a million of our countrymen, many of them in the eastern section of Metro Manila and Rizal, are still in 607 evacuation centers and will likely remain there for at least another week or more.

More than half of the evacuees are in Metro Manila, Rizal has nearly a hundred thousand while Laguna has more than a hundred thousand. In the last four days, the DSWD has been distributing 12,500 food packs and 12,500 clothings packs every day.

Fund raising and relief efforts undertaken by large media outfits like ABS-CBN, GMA Network and other private groups have done much to complement the government's drive but the enormity of the need is such that much more needs to be done.

This Inquirer article tells us more about the situation of people in evacuation centers.

These reports by GMA News show us the grim reality of life in flood-stricken areas and in the evacuation centers. People driven by hunger and desperation jostle for relief goods in the streets while others bear the miserable conditions in crowded evacuation centers. Unfortunately, there are even reports of hoarding of relief goods by some local officials.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

end

Igan Arnold Clavio Interviews Pag-IBIG CEO Jaime Fabiana on How to Avail of Pag-IBIG Calamity Loan, October 1, 2009

2009-10-01T11:06:00.005+08:00

1 October 2009

In light of the widespread devastation brought by storm Ondoy, Pag-IBIG is assisting its members by extending calamity loan availments to them. Igan Arnold Clavio of Unang Hirit interviewed Pag-IBIG CEO Jaime Fabiana to explain how members can avail of the calamity loan.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

In the interview, Mr. Fabiana cited the example of an employee who's been a Pag-IBIG member for 15 years. "Ang mahihiram ng miyembro will depend on the total savings of a member with Pag-IBIG. So halimbawa yung isang miyembro na may 15 years na sa Pag-IBIG fund, more or less yung savings niya sa Pag-IBIG meron na rin siyang P50,000 so 80 percent of that puwede niyang mahiram that will be around P40,000. 'Yan yung makukuha niya sa aming calamity loan program... Yung P40,000 babayaran niya for 2 years pero binibigyan namin yung borrower ng 5 months na grace period kaya nga mag-uumpisa siyang magbayad sa loan on the 6th month," explained Fabiana.

Pag-IBIG accepts calamity loan applications in field offices. Pag-IBIG members need to fill up the application forms signed by their employers and file them with Pag-IBIG field offices together with valid IDs.

Malaking tulong ang calamity loan program na ito ng Pag-IBIG para sa mga kababayan natin sa kanilang muling pagbangon mula sa hagupit ni bagyong Ondoy.

The Pag-IBIG Hotline No. is 724-4244.

Che Tiongson Withdraws Complaint Against Ex-Lover Depty National Security Adviser Luis "Chavit" Singson

2009-10-01T00:01:00.004+08:00

30 September 2009

In today's hearing at the Quezon City RTC Branch 106, Rachel "Che" Tiongson withdrew the civil case she filed against former live-in partner and Deputy National Security Adviser Luis "Chavit" Singson.

Close friends of the former couple like Annabelle Rama and Nadia Montenegro were on hand to lend their support and probably played a crucial part in the amicable settlement of the case. There's nothing like the support and advise of common friends in difficult situations such as this.

According to the Inquirer, Tiongson and Singson talked for about an hour with the judge before the compromise settlement was reached. Tiongson cited their five children as the primary reason why she dropped the case. She also obtained full visitation rights to her children with the former Ilocos Sur governor.

This is the 24 Oras report by Tina Reyes.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

end

Myopic Urban Planning, Improper Building and Overbuilding (Greed) Aggravated Ondoy Disaster in Marikina and Neighboring Areas

2009-09-30T23:00:00.007+08:00

30 September 2009

Internally-renowned architect and urban planner Felino Palafox reminds us of a 1977 Metro Manila Plan they submitted to Malacañang in 1977 that, if followed, could have averted or eased to a great extent the tragedy that befell the eastern section of Metro Manila and Rizal, specifically, Marikina, Pasig, Cainta and Pateros.

The plan called for "controlled development" of the eastern portion of Metro Manila, the building of a spillway in Parañaque, and one that recommended that houses be built with third floors (12 meters) instead of just two floors (9 meters) or worse, one.

This is the 24 Oras report by Sherrie Ann Torres.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

It is obvious that the best urban planning is one that is attended by common sense and guided by ethical considerations. Less greed should always be the order of the day, anytime, anywhere.

"Nag-usap kami ... na sana magkaroon muna ng moratorium sa pag-grant ng mga permit para maglagay ng subdivision," according to Rizal Representative Jack Duavit. I guess he's talking to people like himself, the HLURB, the city councils and other regulatory agencies of government.

"Bawasan na o i-limit na ang mga pamilyang lumilipat sa Marikina dahil ito, unang-una hindi naman ganun kalaki ang Marikina na kung mapupuno ng kabahayan ito eh hindi na siguro magiging fit for habita(tion)," says Marikina Representative Del De Guzman.

People have always associated progress and development with the building of more grandiose subdivisions and glittering malls but in areas where this is not advisable, as in the cases of Marikina, Pasig and Cainta, this is now a tragic lesson that is being learned the hard way. Heavy revenues will be earned, corporate bottom lines will show huge profits but down the road, as what happened with a howler named Ondoy, many lives will be lost, communities shattered and a nation's confidence rocked to its very core.

GMA News Missing Persons Database Using Google Spreadsheets Now Online

2009-09-30T11:43:00.003+08:00

30 September 2009

GMA News has put online its Missing Persons Database (MPD) which allows users to put up inquiries about people that they know are missing or information about people that they know are safe and sound.

This is one excellent way of leveraging technology to reconnect people at this time when powerful tropical storm Ondoy destroyed communities and severely disrupted people's contacts with each other.

The interactive MPD leverages the power of Google Spreadsheets and the Internet allowing people to access the update the database. This is the link to GMA News' Missing Persons Database.

Two US Navy Personnel, 1 Philippine Marine Killed When Their Humvee Struck an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in Indanan, Sulu, September 29, 2009

2009-09-29T18:23:00.003+08:00

29 September 2009

This piece of news is bound to cause a serious reappraisal of the controversial Visiting Forces Agreement or VFA.

In what appears to be the first instance of fatalities in the Philippines involving US servicemen since 2002, two US Navy personnel were killed along with one Philippine Marine personnel when their Humvee struck an improvised explosive device (IED) early today along the five-kilometer Kagay to Langpas Road in Barangay Kagay, Indanan, Sulu.

This GMA News article tells us more about this story.

Classes Suspended in College Up to Friday, Oct 2 2009 in Metro Manila, Other Calamity Areas, NDCC Meeting 29 September 2009

2009-09-29T10:47:00.022+08:00

29 September 2009 10:50am

I've been watching the NDCC meeting chaired by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo assisted by NDCC Chair and Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro for several minutes now. The NDCC meeting is being aired live over DZMM Teleradyo. The program of Ariel Ureta and Winnie Cordero gave way to the airing of the NDCC meeeting.

The DZMM reporter gave us the information that CHED Chairman Emmanuel Angeles has announced in said NDCC meeting that classes in college are being suspended in Metro Manila and in other calamity areas up to Friday, October 2, 2009.

With this information, we can safely give this advisory:

No classes in all levels in Metro Manila, other calamity areas (still to be specified) from today Tuesday, September 29, 2009 up to Friday, October 2, 2009

We still have to determine which provinces declared as calamity areas are covered by this class suspension. I'm sure Rizal is included because it is just as severely-stricken as Metro Manila.

Screenshot of NDCC meeting at DZMM Teleradyo, 11:12am, September 29, 2009

The NDCC meeting is still ongoing as of 11:12am with Energy Secretary Angelo Reyes making his report on the power situation. I'll post the updates here as soon as they arrive.

UPDATE

29 September 2009 11:55am

It's now official, no classes in all levels in Metro Manila up to Friday, October 2, 2009; as usual kulelat na naman ang DepEd ni Secretary Jesli Lapus sa announcement.

Screenshot of DZMM Teleradyo announcement, 11:47am, September 29, 2009

VIDEO UPDATE

29 September 2009 5:48pm

This is a GMA News flash report by Lala Roque.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

VIDEO UPDATE

29 September 2009 7:10pm

This update is based on the 24 Oras report tonight by Mel Tiangco.

No classes in all levels in Metro Manila, Rizal, Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, Marinduque, Oriental Mindoro, Occidental Mindoro, Palawan, Romblon, Pampanga, Bulacan and Zambales from Wednesday, September 30, 2009 up to Saturday, October 3, 2009

Acting Batangas Governor Mark Leviste has reportedly lifted class suspensions in Batangas. There will be classes in Batangas tomorrow.

I have the video clip in my cellphone; I'll embed the video as soon as it's posted in GMANews.tv.

I've posted the video in youtube (10:44pm); here it is.

Classes Suspended in Preschool, Elementary and High School in Metro Manila, No Classes in All Levels in Marikina Up to Friday, Sept 30 2009 (Wed)

2009-09-29T10:23:00.010+08:00

30 September 2009 10:25am

This is our class suspension advisory for Wednesday, September 30, 2009:

No classes in preschool, elementary and high school in Metro Manila on Wednesday, September 30, 2009

DepEd Secretary Jesli Lapus made the announcement personally. I heard him talking with Ted Failon at DZMM Teleradyo. However, kapos pa rin po dahil puwede na sanang sinuspend niya na rin ang klase sa Rizal province instead of leaving the matter to local officials. How about the other provinces that were affected by storm Ondoy? Nag-iisip pa ba itong mga taga DepEd at taga CHED?

No classes in Marikina in all levels up to Friday, October 2, 2009

No classes in UST, September 30, 2009

No classes in La Concordia College, September 30 to October 2, 2009

UPDATE

29 September 2009 11:37am

This is my latest post on class suspension:

Classes Suspended in College Up to Friday, Oct 2 2009 in Metro Manila, Other Calamity Areas, NDCC Meeting 29 September 2009

end

Classes Suspended in Preschool, Elementary and High School in Metro Manila and Rizal, No Classes in All Levels in Batangas, Tuesday, September 29 2009

2009-09-29T00:36:00.002+08:00

29 September 2009 12:36am

This is the surest thing we have right now as far as class suspension for Tuesday, September 29, 2009 is concerned:

No classes in preschool, elementary and high school in Metro Manila and Rizal on Tuesday, September 29, 2009.

No classes in St. Scholastica's College, September 29, 2009

No classes in UST, September 29 and 30, 2009

No classes in La Concordia College, September 29 to October 2, 2009

No classes in all levels in Batangas on Tuesday, September 29, 2009

DZMM Teleradyo is saying:

Klase sa NCR at Rizal, All Levels, Suspendido Pa Rin Ngayon

I hope this report is officially true but I don't think it is true at the college level. It has really been irresponsible of CHED to leave things hanging. Puwede naman tayong sabihan nang malinaw pero pinanghuhula pa tayo. If you have information that says otherwise, please let me know.

end

Storm Ondoy — Even MMDA Chief Bayani Fernando Could Not Rescue Only Child, Daughter Tala Maria, Held Up in Their Family-Owned Steel Factory in Cainta

2009-09-27T21:52:00.002+08:00

27 September 2009

Storm Ondoy has become a leveler of Philippine society. Since yesterday and probably for the next few days, those caught up in Ondoy's fury, young or old, rich or poor, have found themselves standing at par with each other — all victims of nature's uncontrollable wrath.

The Philippine Daily Inquirer, in its online article written by Allison Lopez, entitled Even MMDA Could Not Rescue Stranded Daughter, that rude realization has come the way of Bayani Fernando, the powerful chief of the Metro Manila Development Authority. I quote the article below:

MMDA chairman Bayani Fernando said that at past 10 a.m. on Sunday, he had yet to speak with his 23-year-old daughter Tala Maria, who worked in the family-owned steel factory in Cainta.
"Na-stranded din siya kasi mababa din yung lugar doon. Down kasi lahat ng communications kahapon (Saturday) kaya the whole day, the whole night, hindi ko pa siya nakakausap (She was also stranded because she was in a low-lying area. All communication were down yesterday and that’s why, I have not been able to talk to her the whole day, the whole night)," he said in a phone interview.

The incident revealed a side of Bayani Fernando that we don't normally see:

Although he worried about his daughter, Fernando said he felt helpless because many others were also in dire need of help.
"Nahiya naman ako magpadala ng rubber boat kasi marami rin ang nangangailangan (I didn’t feel comfortable sending a rubber boat because others were in need of rescuing too)," he said.

I am not a big fan of the MMDA Chairman but I share his concern for his daughter as I share the concern of countless others who have relatives and loved ones still in harm's way. I hope the report is accurate that Chairman Fernando's wife has received word that their one and only child Tala Maria is fine.

Classes Suspended in All Levels in Metro Manila and Selected Areas of Calabarzon, September 28, 2009 UPDATED

2009-09-27T10:40:00.016+08:00

27 September 2009 10:42am

I just watched and heard CHED Chairman Emmanuel Angeles announcing the suspension of classes for tomorrow, Monday, September 28, 2009, at the college level in a telephone interview with Mariz Umali of GMA News.

Yesterday, at the height of the most powerful torrent of rain delivered by a Philippine tropical storm in history, Chairman Angeles fumbled majestically when he entrusted the responsibility of suspending classes to school administrators. I don't think I heard from DepEd Secretary Jesli Lapus yesterday; he seemed to have forgotten about the high school students who hold their CAT classes on Saturdays. Hindi ba't pinasu-sweldo naman ng taxpayers' money ang mga ito?!

Anyway, I believe that with Chairman Angeles' announcement, it is safe to make a general announcement:

Classes suspended/no classes at all levels (preschool, elementary, high school, college) on Monday, September 28, 2009 in Metro-Manila (NCR) and in selected areas of Calabarzon (Region IV-A).

Region IV-A or Calabarzon is composed of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon and Lucena City.

Map of Calabarzon (Region IV-A)

When asked by Mariz Umali to specify which areas of Calabarzon are included in the order of class suspension, Chairman Angeles could not provide an answer and said simply that it still needs to be coordinated with school administrators in the area. It's a pathetic answer; he could simply have ordered the entire Calabarzon area to be covered by the suspension so that students and their parents are not left guessing.

I think the order of suspension is also inadequate because it does not address the area of Region III or Central Luzon which was right in the path of tropical storm Ondoy. Central Luzon includes the provinces of Aurora, Bataan,, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales (as well as Angeles City and Olongapo City).

Map of Central Luzon (Region III)

Bakit ba ganito itong mga education officials ng Pilipinas? Parang hindi marunong ng geography at mukhang ang tingin sa ating mga mag-aaral ay mga imortal. Hello?! Ang mga bata po ay sinisipon din, nilalagnat at kapag inabutan ng baha, pwedeng mameligrong malunod. Maawa naman kayo! Kadalasan ay pagpapahintulot na lang sa pagtataas ng tuition fee ng mga private schools ang inaatupag ninyo! At saka po yung tulong na hiningi ko sa tanggapan ni DepEd Secretary Jesli Lapus na pagsu-suspend sa field trip nagkakahalaga ng P1,345 per student papuntang Villa Escudero sa Tiaong, Quezon, hanggang ngayon po ay walang aksyon ang kanyang tanggapan! Sumulat po ako sa tanggapan niya noong September 1, 2009, tapos na yung field trip hanggang ngayon wala po akong alam na ginawa niya mismo upang ipagtanggol ang mismong order ng DepEd.

VIDEO UPDATE

27 September 2009 2:24pm

This is the GMA News flash report by Mariz Umali that I saw several hours ago wherein CHED Chairman Emmanuel Angeles announced the suspension of classes at the college level.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

Since that time, Defense Secretary Gilbert "Gibo" Teodoro in his capacity as Chair of NDCC has declared the suspension of classes in all levels tomorrow, Monday, September 28, 2009 in Metro Manila and Rizal. GMA News quotes Secretary Teodoro:

NDCC chair Gilberto Teodoro Jr. suspended classes after tropical storm 'Ondoy' still left parts of Metro Manila and Rizal impassable to vehicles.

"Para hindi na malito ang mga tao, on my discretion minamabuti ko na na suspindihin ang klase on all levels sa Metro Manila isama na natin ang lalawigan ng Rizal (So as not to confuse the public, it was in my discretion to suspend classes on all levels in Metro Manila, including the province of Rizal)," Teodoro said.

Sana po ay mag-resign na sina DepEd Secretary Jesli Lapus at CHED Chairman Emmanuel Angeles.

CLASS SUSPENSION SUMMARY UPDATE 1

28 September 2009 12:22am

I personally believe that classes should have been ordered suspended by the DepEd and the CHED in many more areas but this is how the class suspension order stands as of this hour:

No classes in all levels in Metro Manila, Rizal, Batangas and Laguna on Monday, September 28

So that we don't get confused, I suggest we take the suspensions one day at a time.

But if you want to read on, this article by the Inquirer, No classes in Metro, Southern Tagalog areas, does make the assertion that there's no classes in all levels up to Tuesday, September 29. However, I don't recall hearing CHED Chairman Emmanuel Angeles say that he's ordering the suspension of colleges classes up to Tuesday. Anyway, I might have missed something. If I did, please let me know.

CLASS SUSPENSION SUMMARY UPDATE 2

28 September 2009 1:28am

Based on the news items that they're flashing at DZMM Teleradyo at this moment, we add Cavite to the list of provinces where there will be no classes on Monday, September 28. This is how the class suspension order stands as of this time:

No classes in all levels in Metro Manila, Rizal, Batangas, Laguna and Cavite on Monday, September 28, 2009.

CLASS SUSPENSION SUMMARY UPDATE 3

28 September 2009 8:40am

Based on the reports below by GMA News from Connie Sison and Mariz Umali, we add the province of Bulacan to the list of provinces where there are no classes on Monday, September 28. This is how the class suspension order stands as of this time:

No classes in all levels in Metro Manila, Rizal, Batangas, Laguna, Cavite and Bulacan on Monday, September 28, 2009.

For tomorrow, Tuesday, September 29, 2009, the class suspension advisory is:

No classes in preschool, elementary and high school in Metro Manila and Rizal on Tuesday, September 29, 2009.

No classes in St. Scholastica's College, September 29, 2009

No classes in La Concordia College, September 29 to October 2, 2009

This is the flash report by Connie Sison:

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

And this is the report by Mariz Umali.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

UPDATE

29 September 2009 11:37am

This is my latest post on class suspension:

Classes Suspended in College Up to Friday, Oct 2 2009 in Metro Manila, Other Calamity Areas, NDCC Meeting 29 September 2009

Storm Ondoy Establishes Record Rainfall Volume - Nearly 60 People Killed, Metro Manila, 24 Other Provinces Under State of Calamity, Sept 26 2009

2009-09-27T02:45:00.000+08:00

27 September 2009

NDCC Chairman and Defense Secretary Gilbert "Gibo" Teodoro has announced that Manila and 24 other provinces have been placed under a state of calamity as a result of the widespread flooding brought by storm Ondoy.

The 25 provinces are Aurora, Quirino, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Viscaya, Tarlac, Pangasinan, Zambales, Pampanga, Bulacan, Rizal, Quezon, Isabela, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Benguet, La Union, Ilocos Sur, Laguna, Cavite, Batangas, Mindoro Oriental, Mindoro Occidental, Marinduque, Camarines Norte and Bataan.

Reuters reports that about 60 people lost their lives, as many as 47 by drowning while 11 others by collapsing walls and rising floodwaters.

According to Pagasa, the torrential rains poured by Ondoy measured at 341 millimeters from 8am to 2pm Saturday broke the standing record of 334 mm recorded in June 1967.

Storm Ondoy - Jessica Soho Interview with Cristine Reyes From the Roof of Her House in Provident Village, Marikina, Evening of September 26 2009

2009-09-26T23:14:00.004+08:00

26 September 2009

A distraught Cristine Reyes was interviewed by GMA News' Jessica Soho tonight while the actress was at the roof of her house in Provident Village in Marikina City. Cristine said she is with her mother, sister and nephews and nieces. They've been in the roof since 1 o'clock in the afternoon and are all wet and hungry. NDCC rescue teams obviously have not reached them by the time of the interview.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

RESCUE UPDATE

27 September 2009 1:25am

Steve Dailisan reports with Mariz Umali on efforts of the Coast Guard to rescue Marikina residents trapped in the roofs of their homes including the family of Cristine Reyes.

This video was posted at GMANews.tv at 12:51am today. There is no indication that Cristine Reyes and her fellow Provident village residents have been reached as of time of this update.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

Let's continue praying for our fellow Filipinos who are still in harm's way — both rescuees and rescuers — as a result of the widespread flooding caused by storm Ondoy.

VIDEO UPDATE ON RESCUE OF CRISTINE REYES' FAMILY

28 September 2009 9:17am

According to saw Cristine Reyes, it was her two brothers who first reached their house in Provident Village, Marikina and tried to rescue her family.

It was in the speedboat borrowed from a friend by actor Richard Gutierrez, however, that Cristine rode on the way out of her house. But along the way, even the speedboat could not handle the flood waters and both Cristine and Richard were stranded and needed to be rescued. It was nevertheless a gallant effort on the part of actor Richard Gutierrez.

More on the rescue of Cristine Reyes and her family in this 24 Oras report by Nelson Canlas and in a Showbiz Central report by John Lapus.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

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Storm Ondoy Lashes at Metro Manila, Rest of Luzon, Classes Suspended in FEU and PUP, Major Disaster Looms, September 26 2009

2009-09-26T12:44:00.020+08:00

26 September 2009

Very strong rains spawned by tropical storm Ondoy has placed many areas of Metro-Manila and Rizal province under flood waters.

DZMM says that FEU and PUP have suspended their classes.

But DZMM is flashing the news that CHED is leaving it to school authorities to decide on whether to suspend classes or not ("CHED: school admin, bahala na sa suspensyon ng klase"). Meron pa bang malasakit itong mga taga CHED? Common sense tells us that in this kind of stormy weather, the easiest thing for the CHED to do is to order the suspension of classes instead of exposing students to unnecessary risks. If I were you, I'll stay at home no matter what the CHED says. It's really dangerous out there right now.

DZMM (and I'm sure other radio stations as well) is swamped with messages from people many of them literally in the roofs of their houses asking to be rescued from the widespread flooding. I don't think I've seen this kind of an emerging disaster in my lifetime.

Quirino, Aurora, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya are under signal no. 2. Metro Manila and Cavite are under signal no. 1. Mayor Mon Ilagan of Cainta speaking with David Oro of DZMM Teleradyo has reported that 90 percent of his town is under water.

These are some of the news items being flashed by DZMM Teleradyo:

ER ng UST hospital, pinasok na ng baha

Water level sa Angat Dam, umabot na sa 'spilling level'

East Avenue hanggang Kamias Road sa QC, di na madaanan

6 munisipalidad sa Batangas, walang kuryente

3 bata, nalunod sa Muntinlupa

2, patay sa pagguho ng pader sa MIA Road

These are the related reports courtesy of GMA News:

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

UPDATE

26 September 2009 (1:50pm)

ABS-CBN's Wowowee is flashing the following storm signals and flooded areas (2:00pm):

Signal no. 2 Aurora, Quirino Nueva Vizcaya, Nueva Ecija, Pangasinan, Tarlac, Zambales, Pampanga, Bulacan, Rizal, Northern Quezon, Polillo Island

Signal No. 1: Isabela, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Benguet, La Union, Ilocos Sur, Laguna, Cavite, Batangas, Rest of Quezon Province, Mindoro Provinces, Lubang Island, Marinduque, Camarines Norte, Bataan, Metro Manila

Flooded areas: Marikina access loop to Marcos Bridge from Marcos Highway to C5, C5 Eagle St. in front of Tiendesitas, Nichols East and West Service Road, Quezon Ave. along Biak-na-Bato east and west-bound, Quezon Avenue to D. Tuazon, Commonwealth Fairview Market, NLEX Cloverleaf Area, Ortigas Eastbound, España from Antipolo to Blumentritt, Malugay St. in Makati, SLEX to Ayala Avenue, Metropolitan South Avenue, Pasong Tamo to J. P. Rizal to Davila St.

These are the hotline nos. of NDCC: 9115061, 9125668, 9120984

Ingat po kayong lahat. God bless po!

UPDATE

29 September 2009 11:37am

This is my latest post on class suspension:

Classes Suspended in College Up to Friday, Oct 2 2009 in Metro Manila, Other Calamity Areas, NDCC Meeting 29 September 2009

Pacman the Dog Keeps Up with Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao During Baguio Training for the Miguel Cotto Fight

2009-09-25T22:23:00.004+08:00

25 September 2009

While training in Baguio City, there is a constant companion to Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao aside from his human training partners in Team Pacquiao and that is Pacman the Dog. Pacman the Dog (I'll call him PacDog for short) keeps pace with his master Pacman the Boxer as they go through Baguio's sloping terrain. Manny says PacDog doesn't tire.

PacDog is a gift brought home by Manny from the United States after the Oscar Dela Hoya fight.

More on Pacman and PacDog in this 24 Oras report by Jette Arcellana.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

Pacman the Dog gets featured in this youtube video of a Mario Lopez interview with the Pacman in 2008.

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Two Men Die as Their Honda Civic Slams Into MRT Post Near Trinoma in Quezon City

2009-09-24T12:52:00.003+08:00

24 September 2009

Two men died early this morning as their Honda Civic flew into the air slamming an MRT post near Trinoma. The driver who died on the spot is a certain Jeffrey Mariano San Juan while the passenger who died at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center was identified as Gerald Cariño.

More on this senseless accident in these GMA News reports.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

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Dr. Gene Nisperos of HEAD Disputes Claims of Losses by Private Hospitals, Calls for Increased Capabilities of Public Hospitals

2009-09-24T07:57:00.007+08:00

24 September 2009

Dr. Gene Nisperos, Secretary General of Health Alliance for Democracy (HEAD) is challenging private hospitals to prove that they are losing money because of the implementation of the cheaper medicines law.

"Eh una po tingnan natin. Sinasabi nila dahil daw po dun sa drug price regulation. Limang gamot lang po 'yan sa totoo. Tapos kung isama natin yung voluntarily-reduced prices, 21. Napakakonti at karamihan po niyan, outpatient drugs pa. So hindi talaga siya ginagamit sa ospital. Kaya ang tanong po namin, patunayan sana ng mga ospital na 'yan kung pa'no sila nalulugi at anong gamot ang dahilan kung pa'no sila nalulugi," explained Nisperos.

Malacañang has called upon Congress to investigate reports that private hospitals are planning to increase their service fees. The aim is to come up with legislation that will allow government to better regulate the power of private hospitals to hike their fees.

This article by Sunstar.com presents Dr. Nisperos' views in-depth.

More on this story in this video clip from Unang Hirit.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

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Legendary Paeng Nepomuceno Guns for a Fifth Bowling World Cup Title When He Competes in Melaka, Malaysia, November 13 to 20, 2009

2009-09-24T01:29:00.004+08:00

24 September 2009

Paeng Nepomuceno is back in competitive form as he prepares for an unbelievable fifth Bowling World Cup title. The 2009 Bowling World Cup will be held at the Melaka International Bowling Center in Melaka, Malaysia from November 13 to 20.

One of sports' true legends, Paeng is soft-spoken and unassuming but packs an awesome left hand that has earned for him four (4) Bowling World Cup Championships having won the event in 1976, 1980, 1992 and 1996.

Paeng will represent the Philippines at Melaka together with women's champion Liza Del Rosario. Paeng beat Paulo Valdez and Bensir Layoso in the men's stepladder finals while Del Rosario edged Krizziah Tabora.

This is the Wikipedia article on Rafael "Paeng" Nepomuceno.

More on this story in this Balitanghali report by JP Soriano.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

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Senator Loren Legarda, Jinkee Pacquiao, Camille Villar, Pia Arcangel Among 18 Filipinas in People Asia Magazine's Women of Style and Substance 2009

2009-09-24T00:23:00.004+08:00

24 September 2009

One of the prettiest faces in television, GMA 7's Pia Arcangel, who co-anchors QTV's Balitanghali, is one of 18 Filipinas named to this year's Women of Style and Substance by People Asia Magazine.

Other beautiful Pinays in the list include Senator Loren Legarda, the woman behind Pacman Jinkee Pacquiao, Camille Villar, Manny Villar's daughter and Rosebud Benitez, host/chef of QTV's Quickfire.

More on this story in this report for Balitanghali by Connie Sison:

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

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Two Female High School Students in Tondo, Manila Accidentally Shot and Injured by 9mm Pen Gun Smuggled by a 16-Year-Old Male Student

2009-09-22T22:58:00.004+08:00

22 September 2009

Students, parents, teachers and school administrators, please take note! Please tell our children to beware and stay away from these things!

A pen gun supposedly found outside the school by a 16-year old male student fired accidentally injuring two female students of Tondo High School in Manila.

The actual gun is shown above. The Inquirer named the two victims as 13-year-old Marie Hanopol and 14-year-old Sharmaine Aguilar. Police said that the single bullet went through Aguilar's body before hitting Hanopol in the back. Here is the link to the Inquirer article.

More on this story in this report by Cesar Apolinario for 24 Oras:

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

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After National Artist Bienvenido Lumbera, It's Now the Turn of Dr. Jun Cruz Reyes to Protest Military Surveillance

2009-09-22T21:10:00.003+08:00

22 September 2009

Last Thursday, an intelligence officer of the Philippine Marines was arrested while taking pictures of the residence of National Artist for Literature Bienvenido Lumbera inside Mapayapa Village in Quezon City. The officer was identified as a certain Hannibal Guerrero. Two companions of Guerrerro were able to escape.

Dr. Jun Cruz Reyes

Today, another prominent artist, UP Professor Dr. Jun Cruz Reyes complained of possible military surveillance consisting of an unidentified man who took his pictures using a cellphone, the casing of his house in Sta. Elena, Hagonoy, Bulacan, and a report from a friend saying that he is in the "order of battle" of the Philippine Army.

The military has denied any intentional surveillance or inclusion in the order of battle of Lumbera and Reyes.

More on this story in these reports courtesy of GMA News:

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

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Serbis, Other Indie Films Dominate the Gawad Urian 2009

2009-09-22T17:42:00.003+08:00

22 September 2009

Serbis, a film by Cannes Film Festival winner Brillante Mendoza won the Best Picture prize at the recent 32nd Gawad Urian 2009. Serbis also won for Brillante Mendoza the Best Director plum as well as Best Cinematography (Odyssey Flores) and Best Production Design (Benjamin Padero and Carlo Tabije).

Veteran actor Ronnie Lazaro was voted Best Actor for his role in Yanggaw while Mylene Dizon's performance in 100 won for her the Best Actress trophy. Rising star Coco Martin was Best Supporting Actor (Jay) and Aleera Montalla, Best Supporting Actress (Yanggaw).

Starmometer lists for us all of the nominees and the winners in the various categories.

Star City Rollercoaster Rider "Rina" Denies Her Handbag Caused the Zyklon Loop to Get Stuck, 21 September 2009

2009-09-22T13:44:00.003+08:00

22 September 2009

A rider whom GMA News simply named as "Rina" claims that her handbag is not the reason why the Zyklon Loop at Star City got stuck yesterday.

GMA News interview "Rina" and she showed on cam her handbag and umbrella insisting that her belongings inside the handbag would have been crushed had it been run over by the rollercoaster.

The lesson learned here is that getting in on these rides has its risks and both rider and operator have their own share of responsibilities in making sure that the ride would be safe and exciting instead of being traumatic and dangerous. Of course, it is the operator, Star City, who has the primary duty of ensuring that its rides are not only exciting but safe as well.

As usual, after the incident, the Pasay City engineer's office has inspected the Zyklon Loop and made the necessary safety recommendations.

More on this story in these reports courtesy of GMANews.tv:

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Shalani Soledad Present at Fund-Raising Concert for the Noynoy-Mar Tandem Held at the UP Theatre in Diliman, 21 September 2009

2009-09-22T08:31:00.008+08:00

22 September 2009

A fund-raising concert for the Noynoy Aquino - Mar Roxas tandem was held last night at the UP Theater in UP Diliman, Quezon City. The concert was topbilled by the Apo Hiking Society. Noynoy and Mar even joined the concert performers in singing the tune that now bears their names.

Instead of buying tickets, supporters of the Noynoy-Mar ticket gave donations which were received by volunteers.

Shalani Soledad, girlfriend of Senator Noynoy Aquino, was present and sat beside the senator during the concert.

Earlier in the day at the Club Filipino in Greenhills, I was there when media people asked Noynoy why Shalani wasn't there and he responded by saying that he did not want to bother Shalani who has her own preparations to make for her own political run in Valenzuela City in 2010. GMANews.tv has an article on why Shalani and Korina were not present at the Liberal Party's big day.

More on this story in this News on Q report by Pia Arcangel.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

And in this Unang Hirit report by Susan Enriquez.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

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Nation Observes the 37th Anniversary of Martial Law, One of the Darkest Chapters in Philippine History, 21 September 2009

2009-09-21T21:40:00.002+08:00

21 September 2009

The Filipino nation marked the anniversary of martial law, imposed 37 years ago today by the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos, with a series of protest actions many of them centered at the Mendiola Bridge where thousands fought the darkness that engulfed Philippine society more than a third of a century ago.

It is an event and a period that will never be forgotten, marring the Filipino psyche and soul with a wound that will never heal, with a legacy of terror that will haunt our nation for as long as it exists.

More on this story in these reports courtesy of GMA News:

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

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Noynoy Aquino - Mar Roxas Tandem to be Formally Announced at 10:00 am Today at the Club Filipino, September 21, 2009

2009-09-21T07:17:00.006+08:00

21 September 2009

The Noynoy Aquino - Mar Roxas tandem for the 2010 elections will be formally announced today at the historic Club Filipino in Greenhills, San Juan. These articles from the Inquirer and the Philippine Star tell us more about it.

My source said that the announcement will be made at around 10:00 am.

VIDEO UPDATES

22 September 2009 8:15am

The Liberal Party officially announced the Noynoy Aquino - Mar Roxas tandem for 2010 yesterday at the Club Filipino; it was past 11:00am when the ceremonies started.

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VP Noli De Castro Loses Cool — "Mga Tamad Sila ... Paaalisin Kayo ni Vice 'Pag Di Kayo Nagbayad Kahit Sino Pa Kayo!"

2009-09-19T18:14:00.000+08:00

19 September 2009

"Baka mga tamad sila! Sabihin mo sa kanila, tamad sila! Hindi sila puwedeng hindi sila magbabayad. Sisingilin ko sila paaalisin ko pag di nagbayad. Paaalisin kayo ni Vice 'pag di kayo nagbayad kahit sino pa kayo!"

In an outburst that might just lose him whatever electoral contest he enters in 2010, Vice President Noli De Castro lost his composure in Los Baños, Laguna.

More on Noli de Castro's temper tantrum in this report by Marvin Tumandao:

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

Excuse me, ayaw po ng Pinoy sa suplada o sa suplado!

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Mar Roxas - Korina Sanchez Sto. Domingo Church Wedding Moved From Oct 23 to Oct 27, 2009, Reception Follows at Araneta Coliseum

2009-09-18T19:17:00.003+08:00

18 September 2009

In tonight's edition of TV Patrol, we learn through Mario Dumaual's interview with the ace ABS-CBN broadcaster that the much-awaited wedding of Senator Mar Roxas and Korina Sanchez is being moved from October 23 to October 27, 2009. It will still be held at the Sto. Domingo Church while reception will follow at the Araneta Coliseum.

MRT Fare Should Be P60 Says DBP But DOTC Secretary Leandro Mendoza Says There Won't Be Any MRT Fare Hike ...

2009-09-17T21:30:00.003+08:00

17 September 2009

This kind of news is quite disturbing for those who take the MRT on a regular basis.

The DBP is saying that MRT fare should be in the vicinity of P60. Wow! That is four (4) times the maximum fare of P15 under the present MRT fare matrix shown below:

But DOTC Secretary Leandro Mendoza is saying that there won't be any fare increase because the government will continue to subsidize MRT fares to the tune of P5 Billion in 2010. I believe we should take what he says to mean that "there won't be any fare increase ... for now ... maybe after the 2010 election."

More on this story in this Balitanghali report by Rawnna Crisostomo:

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

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Baguio Readies Big Welcome for Manny Pacquiao Who Will Train in the City for the November 14 Miguel Cotto Fight

2009-09-17T08:10:00.005+08:00

17 September 2009

Baguio City is busy preparing to welcome Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao, the celebrated Pambansang Kamao, who will make the city his training camp for the November 14 showdown with Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto. Baguio's high altitude and favorable climate will give Manny the desired environment to keep his cardiovascular system the necessary workout.

News of an apparent rift between Pacman and coach Freddie Roach has surfaced over Manny's choice of Baguio as the site of his training. Roach is apprehensive that Baguio fans might distract Manny from his fight preparations. Vice Mayor Daniel Fariñas is appealing to Baguio City residents to give Manny as much space and privacy as he needs so he can focus completely on training.

More on this story in this report by Jet Arcellana of GMA News Dagupan:

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

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VP Noli De Castro Stays Away From Lakas-Kampi-CMD Executive Committee Meeting that Will Choose 2010 Admin Standard Bearer

2009-09-16T13:40:00.003+08:00

16 September 2009

In a major development of the 2010 presidential race, Vice President Noli De Castro is staying away from the selection process for the administration presidential standard bearer. The deadline for him to do so lapsed last midnight.

The Lakas-Kampi-CMD executive committee is meeting today to choose who between Defense Secretary Gilbert "Gibo" Teodoro and MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando will bear the administration coalition's hopes of winning the 2010 polls.

More on this story in this GMA News reports.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

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Del Potro Beats Federer, 3-6, 7-6, 4-6, 7-6, 6-2, Wins Men's US Open 2009

2009-09-15T13:03:00.008+08:00

15 September 2009

Juan Martin Del Potro outlasted Roger Federer 3-6, 7-6, 4-6, 7-6, 6-2 to score one of the biggest upsets in tennis history and win the men's championship of the US Open.

Del Potro put an end to Federer's five-year domination of the US Open with a performance that is nothing short of truly awesome.

Noynoy Aquino Leads SWS Luzon Survey with 50%, Villar Far Second with 14%, Survey Period - September 5-6, 2009

2009-09-14T20:54:00.011+08:00

14 September 2009

In a foretaste of what could become common fare in future presidentiable surveys, Senator Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III racked up a commanding lead by garnering 50% of respondents' votes in certain Luzon areas, equal to the combined total of all of his potential rivals. Senator Manny Villar was a far second with 14%.

The areas covered by the survey consisted of NCR, Pangasinan, Region III (Central Luzon) and Region IV-A (CALABARZON).

I don't believe we've seen this phenomenon in presidential polls before.

Some facts about the survey need to be pointed out though:

1) It was done before Noynoy Aquino formally declared his intention to run for the presidency.

2) As already stated above, it was done in Luzon only and not even in the entire Luzon island but in four vote-rich regions.

3) It was commissioned by a group of businessmen led by Ramon del Rosario, a close Cory Aquino ally.

In any event, whichever way one looks at it, a score of 50% for a then-still-undeclared candidate, in key voting areas, is something that can strike fear into the hearts of Noynoy's potential political rivals, whether they admit it publicly or not.

Any lead can be surmounted but if the person who holds the lead remains sensitive and responsive, it will be difficult to wrest from him the leadership post. If Noynoy plays his cards well by implementing his stated desire to dispose of his family's Hacienda Luisita holdings, free himself from any cordon sanitaire, widen his adviser base to include ordinary people who experience the travails of daily life, keep his feet firmly planted on the ground and his ears close to the pavement, he'll be the man to beat in 2010. Otherwise, his lead will dissipate and the people's hope for real change will come crashing down as quickly as it resurged in those heady days of August 2009.

More on this story in this 24 Oras report by Sandra Aguinaldo.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

Kim Clijsters Beats Caroline Wozniacki, 7-5, 6-3 to Win the Women's Singles at the US Open 2009

2009-09-14T10:54:00.004+08:00

14 September 2009

I've caught up with the match between Kim Clijsters and Caroline Wozniacki with the Belgian ace 7-5, 5-3 leading and serving for the match.

Clijsters has won the women's singles championship of the US Open 2009, 7-5, 6-3 in what is possibly the most sensational performance in the history of the tournament and one of the best in all of tennis history.

Clijsters received the $1.6 million top prize plus a glittering trophy but nothing must compare with the exhilaration of winning after being away for so long. Kim Clijsters ... simply one of the best to have played the game.

Del Potro Beats Nadal 6-2, 6-2, 6-2 in US Open Semi-finals — Argentine Reaches His First Major Finals, Sept. 14, 2009

2009-09-14T02:51:00.003+08:00

14 September 2009 2:42am Manila time

Juan Martin Del Potro demolished Rafael Nadal 6-2, 6-2, 6-2 to reach the men's finals of the US Open 2009. It's painful for me to write about this because I'm a Nadal fan but that is the harsh reality.

Del Potro has come of age, tennis' rising superstar. Nadal gave it all he's got but every time it seemed he had something going, the young Argentine answered back with brilliant shots that stifled the Spaniard's momentum.

Nadal has to get back in shape. I know he's got more in him than was evident in this match.

Senator Noynoy Aquino and Family Mulls Giving Up Hacienda Luisita Holdings, Sept 12, 2009

2009-09-14T02:14:00.005+08:00

14 September 2009

Giving up Hacienda Luisita for Senator Noynoy Aquino and his family.

It's been in the news and there is widespread expectation that it will happen so it is but natural that Senator Noynoy Aquino will make his voice heard on the issue sooner rather than later. We now have the video clip from this GMA Weekend News report by Mariz Umali.

"Yung sinisigaw ngayon dun balik na lang ulit sa trabaho ... pagdasal na lang yung trabaho... eh ang pamilya ko naman, 'Ang laki laki na ng utang natin diyan, baka somebody might be able to run it better,'" said Senator Aquino.

To which declaration a Hacienda Luisita resident replied, "Kung sakali mang ibenta yung lupa dito sa hacienda po, sana po bayaran niya kami at bigyan ng matitirhan."

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

If Noynoy can turn the Hacienda Luisita issue from a liability into an asset for himself as a presidential contender in 2010, then he'll be able to show outstanding problem-solving skills and a definite ability to lead.

Pampanga Under State of Calamity Because of Widespread Flooding

2009-09-14T01:41:00.002+08:00

14 September 2009 1:41am

Flooding in 150 barangays in 13 municipalities in Pampanga has placed the province under a state of calamity. One of the most heavily affected towns is Sto. Tomas where classes in some areas have been suspended for a week and where fishponds have been destroyed adversely affecting the livelihood of many people.

Bernadette Reyes reports for the GMA Weekend News:

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Senator Noynoy Aquino Visits Urban Poor Communities of Bgy. Doña Imelda in Q.C. and Baseco Compound in Tondo, Manila, Sept 12, 2009

2009-09-13T17:24:00.007+08:00

13 September 2009

In a clear attempt to bring himself and his message of change closer to the masses of the Filipino electorate, Senator Noynoy Aquino visited the urban poor communities of Barangay Doña Imelda in Quezon City and the Baseco Compound in Tondo, Manila.

These places are known bailiwicks of former President Erap Estrada. One of the value of forays such as this for Noynoy is to gauge his support among the D and E economic groups where majority of voters belong.

The video clip of the GMA Weekend News report by Sherrie Ann Torres shows the senator sitting down with supporters and residents in a small house apparently to discuss about community matters.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

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Kim Clijsters Beats Serena Williams 6-4, 7-5, Scores One of the Biggest Upsets in the US Open, Sept 12, 2009, 10:50am ET, Clijsters-Wozniacki Finals

2009-09-13T10:45:00.016+08:00

12 September 2009, 10:50am Eastern Time

Kim Clijsters is definitely back!

Clijsters was about to break Serena in the last game of the match when Serena suddenly had an argument with a female line umpire over a foot fault called against her. That incident earned for Serena a point penalty which happened to be the match point, the final point, thus allowing Clijsters to beat the American ace 6-4, 7-5 to move to the finals of the US Open.

Serena Williams approached the female line umpire,

addressing her directly with racket raised

With the score standing at 6-4, 6-5, 40-15 in favor of Kim

Clijsters, Serena Williams discusses the foot fault call with

tournament officials as the female line umpire looks on. The

point penalty deprived Kim Clijsters the chance

to win the match point with her racket.

Only one woman now stands in the way of Kim Clijsters' winning the US Open 2009, the winner of the Yanina Wickmayer - Caroline Wozniacki match now playing.

That match has just ended with the 19-year-old Wozniacki winning 6-3, 6-3.

It will be a Clijsters-Wozniacki showdown for the women's championship of the US Open 2009.

Jolina Magdangal Brings Boyfriend Mark Escueta of Rivermaya to Farewell Party of Adik Sa 'Yo!, September 11, 2009

2009-09-12T17:15:00.012+08:00

When was the last time you saw Jolina beaming like this?!

12 September 2009

After the breakup with Bebong Muñoz last year, the reason for which many people still don't understand up to now, actress-singer Jolina Magdangal is inspired once again. GMA News exclaims, "Inlove si Jolens!"

That's the reason why I've struck out the adjective "rumored" when describing her boyfriend Mark Escueta, drummer of Rivermaya, a band which Jolens admits she's been a fan of since her high school days.

Yesterday, she brought boyfriend Mark Escueta to the farewell party for Adik Sa 'Yo!

Jolens is visibly happy and she says she's inspired again.

More on Jolens' rejuvenated love life in this Startalk exclusive by Lhar Santiago.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

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Pacquiao - Cotto Presscon at Yankee Stadium for their Nov. 14, 2009 WBO Welterweight Championship Match, September 10, 2009, New York Yankee Stadium

2009-09-11T21:20:00.006+08:00

11 September 2009

Noon of September 10, 2009 witnessed the press conference of the Pacquiao - Cotto WBO welterweight championship fight scheduled for November 14, 2009. The presscon was held at New York's Yankee Stadium.

More on this story in this report by Chino Trinidad for Saksi:

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

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Erap Rejects Calls for Him to Support Noynoy Because of "Elitist So-Called Civil Society" Surrounding the LP Senator

2009-09-11T00:51:00.003+08:00

10 September 2009

Former President Erap Estrada shut the door close on calls for him to support the candidacy of LP standard bearer Noynoy Aquino because of the presence of people around the Senator who were responsible for Erap's ouster from the presidency in 2001.

"The conspiracy of this elitist so-called civil society and Noynoy is surrounded by these people which I cannot go along with and I don't believe that these people has a right to dictate to the Filipino people whom they like as their president," said the former President who was ousted in 2001 while going into his third year in office.

This is 24 Oras report by Ruth Cabal.

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

A cursory look at my blog should give you some idea of my political preferences but Erap has a point in the sense that anybody who wants to be regarded as the people's standard bearer would need to bear the people's agenda, not just the agenda of a few.

Noynoy has stated that he needs the people to fund his campaign. Well and good. That will set him far apart from most of those who are running. But if he is to become the people's standard bearer, he needs to make himself more accessible. Not just shaking hands with people but sitting down with the people, listening to them and learning from them.

Early on, he needs to state clearly how he intends to handle the problem of Hacienda Luisita which will be a focal point of the attacks against him as a candidate. This has been a festering issue for years and Noynoy has the perfect chance to put his mark on this problem and dispose of it for good. It will be an early acid test of his judgment and leadership and skill in consensus building.

The process of crafting the people's agenda needs to include the voiceless and the powerless. That is easier said than done but it is a vital part of making the entire process work. Without it, there will be no people's agenda to speak of and no people's standard bearer to cheer for.

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Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay Drops Out of 2010 Race But Other Presidentiables Persist, 10 September 2009

2009-09-10T12:26:00.003+08:00

10 September 2009

In the wake of Senator Noynoy Aquino's declaration of his intention to seek the presidency in 2010, another presidentiable in the person of Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay has announced that he is dropping his own presidential aspirations to give way to opposition unity.

Binay, a close Cory Aquino supporter, has also stated his willingness to mediate in the event that Senator Aquino and former President Erap Estrada sit down and discuss the prospects of unification.

Other presidential hopefuls, however, seem bent on running.

More on this story in this report for Saksi by Ruth Cabal.

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Aquino Children, Kin Attend Masses Across the Country to Mark the 40th Day Death Anniversary of President Cory, September 9, 2009

2009-09-09T22:30:00.007+08:00

09 September 2009

Masses were held across the country to mark the 40th day death anniversary of President Cory Aquino who passed away on August 1, 2009.

After displaying solidarity as a family in the announcement of Senator Noynoy Aquino's decision to run for the presidency in 2010 at the Club Filipino in San Juan, the Aquino children went their separate ways momentarily to attend masses for their mother in various parts of the country.

These are the reports from GMA News.

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Dennis Trillo, Maxene Eigenmann Injured and Shocked, Friend Jolly Bee "JB" Bordajo Dies of Drowning in Boracay, September 9, 2009

2009-09-09T21:22:00.006+08:00

9 September 2009

I first heard a portion of this news report in tonight's TV Patrol. A friend of Dennis Trillo, identified by the Manila Bulletin as Jolly Bee Bordajo, died while they were swimming in Boracay together with Maxine Eigenmann. Dennis reportedly tried to rescue his friend but strong waves lashed at them preventing him from doing so.

This is the GMA News report by Nelson Canlas. In his report, Nelson refers to Dennis' friend as "JB."

For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV

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