BELL'S PALSY: Up Close and Personal

BELL'S PALSY: Up Close and Personal

God wanted me to appreciate my ability to smile so he gave me Bell's palsy. At first, I asked God, why me? Then I came to realize that God wanted me to know that with my second life and second chance I should be smiling more. After all, it is free.

I am a ruptured brain aneurysm survivor. My neurosurgeon coiled and put a stent on my brain to stop the internal bleeding. After the operation, my doctors told me that I will never be 100% again. That statement made me sad.

I was bedridden for four grueling months. That means bed bath and my assistant fed me with tasteless food, fruits and vegetables. Those people who had seen me going to the mall in a wheelchair were so amazed with my health's developments.

I had my first bath inside our comfort room after four months. That is the most refreshing bath I ever had. Money could not buy the happiness I felt that day.

After that, I re-learned how to sit down, stand up, walk and eat on my own. My balance was shaky at first. My physical therapist patiently taught me how to regain my balance again. I thought, I was well again but then I had Bell's palsy.

What is Bell's palsy?

According to Mayo Clinic, Bell's palsy causes sudden weakness in your facial muscles. This makes half of your face appear to droop. Your smile is one-sided, and your eye on that side resists closing.

Bell's palsy, also known as facial palsy, can occur at any age. The exact cause is unknown, but it's believed to be the result of swelling and inflammation of the nerve that controls the muscles on one side of your face. It may be a reaction that occurs after a viral infection.

While stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) can cause facial paralysis usually in one side of the face, there is no connection between stroke or TIA and Bell's palsy. However, one must see a doctor immediately in order to rule out a more serious condition like stroke or TIA or brain tumor.

For most people, Bell's palsy is temporary. Symptoms usually start to improve within a few weeks, with complete recovery in about six months. A small number of people continue to have some Bell's palsy symptoms for life. Rarely, Bell's palsy can recur.

By the way, Bell's palsy got its name after the Scottish surgeon Charles Bell who first described it in 1829 in his presentation before the Royal Society of London.

Famous people who had Bell's Palsy:

• Bernadette Sembrano, Filipino newscaster, host of the medical program Salamat Dok! and anchor of TV Patrol Weekend.
• Katie Holmes
• Pierce Brosnan
• Sylvester Stallone
• George Clooney

God works in mysterious ways. Two weeks after rigid physical therapy and rehabilitation I had my smile back. God is great and God is good all the time.

PHILHEALTH: General Computation Table

PHILHEALTH: General Computation Table

Hi, there! Have you paid your monthly contribution to Philhealth this year? If not yet, then make sure to find time to pay for your premium so you'll get the full benefits from Philhealth if ever you get hospitalized. You could find a summary of Philhealth’s member general contribution below.

Who must pay Philhealth premiums?

• Employed Workers in the government and private sectors who have an established employee-employer relations 2.5% of income base within the salary bracket, with the employee and employer equally sharing the contribution
• OFW Active, land-based Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) who went through the regular registration process as an OFW at POEA offices. P2,400 per year
• Self-employed Professionals Doctors, lawyers, engineers, teachers, nurses, architects, dentists and accountants not employed by a company P900 per quarter
• Individually Paying or Voluntary Members Self-employed or those who work for himself/herself Those with monthly income of P25,000 and below pay P600 quarterly or P2,400 per year. 
• Those earning at least P25,000 pay P900 quarterly or P3,600 per year.
• Foreigners If employed, will be registered under the Employed group. If self-employed or merely residing in the Philippines, may enroll as a Voluntary Member. See "Employed" or "Voluntary Member" groups.
• Indigent / Sponsored Members Indigents belonging to the lowest 25% of the Philippine population Free. Must be endorsed by DSWD and LGU.
• Retiree. A member at least 60 years of age and has made at least 120 monthly contributions to PhilHealth Free

Premiums and Contribution Table for Employed Members

PhilHealth members who are employed in the government or private sector must pay a premium based on their monthly salary. The contribution is around 2.5% of the salary base.

The total amount is shared equally by both the employer and the employee. The total monthly premium, depending on the employee’s monthly salary are shown below.

The “Employee Share” column reflects the amount deducted from your salary every month, while the “Employer Share” is how much your employer contributes to your PhilHealth premium.

The “Total Monthly Premium”, meanwhile, is the total amount remitted to PhilHealth on your behalf.

Salary Bracket                        Salary      Employee    Employer  Total Monthly
Salary Range (in PHP)          Base        Share           Share        Premium

  1    8,999.99 and below      8,000.00   100.00        100.00        200.00
  2    9,000.00 - 9,999.99      9,000.00   112.50        112.50        225.00
  3 10,000.00 - 10,999.99  10,000.00   125.00        125.00        250.00
  4 11,000.00 - 11,999.99  11,000.00   137.50        137.50        275.00
  5 12,000.00 - 12,999.99  12,000.00   150.00        150.00        300.00
  6 13,000.00 - 13,999.99  13,000.00   162.50        162.50        325.00
  7 14,000.00 - 14,999.99  14,000.00   175.00        175.00        350.00
  8 15,000.00 - 15,999.99  15,000.00   187.50        187.50        375.00
  9 16,000.00 - 16,999.99  16,000.00   200.00        200.00        400.00
10 17,000.00 - 17,999.99  17,000.00   212.50        212.50        425.00
11 18,000.00 - 18,999.99  18,000.00   225.00        225.00        450.00
12 19,000.00 - 19,999.99  19,000.00   237.50        237.50        475.00
13 20,000.00 - 20,999.99  20,000.00   250.00        250.00        500.00
14 21,000.00 - 21,999.99  21,000.00   262.50        262.50        525.00
15 22,000.00 - 22,999.99  22,000.00   275.00        275.00        550.00
16 23,000.00 - 23,999.99  23,000.00   287.50        287.50        575.00
17 24,000.00 - 24,999.99  24,000.00   300.00        300.00        600.00
18 25,000.00 - 25,999.99  25,000.00   312.50        312.50        625.00
19 26,000.00 - 26,999.99  26,000.00   325.00        325.00        650.00
20 27,000.00 - 27,999.99  27,000.00   337.50        337.50        675.00
21 28,000.00 - 28,999.99  28,000.00   350.00        350.00        700.00
22 29,000.00 - 29,999.99  29,000.00   362.50        362.50        725.00
23 30,000.00 - 30,999.99  30,000.00   375.00        375.00        750.00
24 31,000.00 - 31,999.99  31,000.00   387.50        387.50        775.00
25 32,000.00 - 32,999.99  32,000.00   400.00        400.00        800.00
26 33,000.00 - 33,999.99  33,000.00   412.50        412.50        825.00
27 34,000.00 - 34,999.99  34,000.00   425.00        425.00        850.00
28 35,000.00 - up                35,000.00   437.50       437.50        875.00

So if, for example, your salary is P15,000 per month, check the appropriate “Salary Bracket” (Row 8 ) and look for the corresponding Employee and Employer Share. Every month, your payroll statement should show that a total of P187.50 has been deducted from your salary as your PhilHealth contribution.

Your employer adds the other half, P175.00, and a total of P350.00 should be remitted to Philhealth on your behalf every month.

NAIA 3: Overnight Parking Rate

NAIA 3: Overnight Parking Rate

My brother and I were so surprised that the rate for overnight parking at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport 3 ballooned to Php300 per night from the usual Php50 that we used to pay whenever we left our car there.

According to the sign board, the new rate was imposed effective December 2013. I guess that is still a small price to pay than losing your car.  I hope that with the price increase comes tighter security. After all, you and I could not buy peace of mind.

Happy Summer everyone!

You might want to see:

http://www.travelonshoestring.com/2011/02/overnight-parking-sa-naia-terminal-3.html

What Network is the Unknown Number that's calling you?

What Network is the Unknown Number that's calling you?

Have you ever experienced receiving a call from an unknown number?  You keep getting missed calls from unknown numbers and you wonder if you'll reply or not?

Do you wonder as to whose network that unknown number belongs too? As you all know, most of the promos of the networks cover only calls between the same network.  Just like me, I bet, you don't want to be charged with inter-network charges as much as possible.

To save you from your predicament, I decided to make a list of Mobile Network Prefixes in the Philippines.

Here are the list of the mobile number prefixes so you would not wonder anymore if you'll reply to them or not.

Smart numbers and TNT numbers

These are the prefixes of the numbers belonging to Smart Telecommunication and its subsidiaries, Talk N' Text and Addict Mobile. 

0813
0907
0908
0909
0910
0912
0918
0919
0920
0921
0928
0929
0930
0938
0939
0946
0947
0948
0949
0989
0998
0999

Sun Cellular Numbers

Sun Cellular is now part of the Smart Telecommunications corporation but still has independence when it comes to promos. So, to prevent you from incurring extra charges, here are the list of prefixes of numbers belonging to Sun network. 

0922

0923
0925
0932
0933
0934
0942
0943

Globe Numbers and Touch Mobile Numbers

Here are the prefixes of the numbers of Globe Telecommunications and its subsidiary, Touch Mobile.

0817
0905
0906
0915
0916
0917
0926
0927
0935
0936
0937
0994
0996
0997

Next Mobile

If you're wondering what the heck is Next Mobile. Then wonder no more, Next Mobile is the mobile network owned by the Iglesia Ni Cristo.

0977
0979

Exetel (Express Communications)

0973
0974

I hope these lists will help you avoid accidental text or calls to other network from now on. 

Don't be ignorant. Prevent extra charges. 

EARTH HOUR: March 29, 2014

EARTH HOUR: March 29, 2014

Join millions of people across the world who will switch lights off for an hour on 29 March at 8:30 pm - to raise awareness for the planet.

As you all know, Earth Hour is a movement using the power of the crowd to protect our planet. The only one we got.

#EarthHour

SOLAIRE RESORT: 1 Million Fans In 1 Year

SOLAIRE RESORT: 1 Million Fans In 1 Year

Isn't it amazing? For such short period of time Solaire Resort accumulated more than 1 million Fans on Facebook. A very good way to celebrate its first year anniversary in the Philippines.

I first heard about Solaire Resort and Casino when it opened its door in the Philippines last March 2013. My brother and I actually had circled the vicinity but we did not park our car because we still have to go somewhere else.  So it is only on December 2013 that we finally were able to visit. We did not stay long though because I am allergic to cigarrette smoke. 

I was really amazed at how tall the imported Christmas tree from Canada that Solaire placed on its lobby to the delight of everyone. I really hope that we can go back there and dine in one of the restaurants or maybe stay in one of its rooms or watch one of its events.

A one night stay in this world-class hotel to relax and get de-stressed would be nice. Solaire currently has special room rates as it celebrates its first year anniversary. To check them out, please click HERE.

Solaire is the first integrated resort to embrace Social Media with its own in-house digital marketing team since the property opened in March 2013 and has indicated its strength within a year. Social Media is an essential part of its continuing efforts to innovate and provide impressive and exceptional entertainment to all its clientele. Growing engagement with fans of Solaire has contributed significantly to the business success. Social Media platforms will enhance the marketing plans of Solaire and allows it to interact and update regular patrons on all events, activities, shows and promotions. 

Solaire engages its valued followers through Facebook and this platform provides them the opportunity to participate and share those special experiences of great memories. This provides an opportunity to connect our most supportive and passionate fans in a quest to find ways to enjoy and “Create their Moments” at Solaire.

“This is something we are proud of and wish to express our sincere appreciation to our loyal supporters and 1 Million Facebook fans for their continued support as we celebrate our 1st year in business. We are glad to be able to connect with our guests through Social Media,” says Jasper Evangelista, Vice President Brand Marketing, Solaire Resort and Casino.

Solaire’s Facebook page has inter-active postings daily on the gaming and resort promotions, events, raffle and other activities. Solaire has a strong social media presence in the Philippines and a rising presence in Asia.

Stay updated with Solaire through Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

Solaire Resort & Casino, the primary property of Bloomberry Resorts Corporation, is a USD $1.2 Billion integrated destination resort on an 8.3-hectare site in Manila, Philippines opened March 2013. Solaire, a luxury destination casino resort, is the first property to open in the Entertainment City, a government sponsored (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation) economic development zone.

Solaire’s Bay Tower (Phase 1) features 500 luxurious rooms, suites and bay side villas, 18,500 square meters of gaming space, a wide range of award-winning signature restaurants, sophisticated bars and lounges, and an ample multi-level car park. The property has additional 258,721 square meter expansion project under development which is expected to open 3rd quarter of 2014.

For more information and reservations, please contact a travel professional or access the website at www.solaireresort.com

APPRECIATING YOUR SMILE

APPRECIATING YOUR SMILE

I used to ignore my ability to smile. Suddenly last January,  right after our blog conference with Angel Locsin, Maja Salvador and JC De Vera for Legal Wife, my smile has completely disappeared. Gone just like that.

I was actually posing for a picture because I got the biggest portion of ice cream than any of my blogger friends, so I was smiling from ear to ear, so I thought.  Imagine how bewildered I was when I saw all my pictures showing me with a smirk.  I told my friend to delete it and never show it to anyone.

The following day I got admitted to the emergency room of the hospital near our home because my blood pressure that shot up to more than 200. Then the neurologist confirmed my fear it was Bell's Palsy. Sad as I was because I can't smile anymore as often as I'd like to. I consulted a rehabilitation doctor and a cardiologist and underwent a physical therapy at the hospital.

At first, I asked God why me? I survived a ruptured brain aneurysm not a long time ago and here it is again a different disease which took away my ability to smile.  Yeah, grumpy as I am, I usually smile when being photographed. 

You can Imagine my frustrations because I could no longer attend events plus somebody I met from an event asked me to invite bloggers then cancelled at the last minute. Buti siya hindi siya kilala ng mga bloggers, eh ako? Hay kaka bwisit talaga. Kaya siguro lalo lang ako nagkakasakit dahil sa mga taong tulad niya. Lipulin na sana kayo sa mundong ibabaw para wala kayong napiperwesyo. Pero teka, itapon na sa kankungan ang mga negang tao na tulad niya dapat pa rin tayong mag pasalamat kasi buong buo ang mga ngiti na namumutawi sa inyong mga labi.

So guys and gals don't forget to smile always! Appreciate your smile mga kabagang.

God bless us all!

Smile,

Travelonshoestring

SOLANE LPG: Safe is Safer with Solane Safety Cap and Seal

Top LPG company intensifies safety campaign with the launch of a new security feature in its tank.

True to its commitment to continuously innovate and create safer homes for Filipinos, the country’s top provider of cooking gas Solane launched its new gas-tight Solane safety cap & seal in one, an innovative tamper-proof feature for auto/shut off (A/S) valves that has guarantee of quality and secures your home against gas leaks and potential fires.

Innovating for consumer safety and convenience

A first-of-its-kind in the LPG industry, the safety cap, with serial number as proof of authenticity, completely plugs the gas to prevent leaks before installing the tank with a hose. Storing a Solane LPG tank with safety caps also keeps it protected from becoming a possible source of ignition.

“The new safety cap and seal exemplify Solane’s commitment to innovation and safety. It is a service that we are committed to provide to our customers to ensure their safety and protection while using LPG at home or at work. It is our priority to aim to minimize or totally eliminate incidents that harm people, or put our customers, neighbors or facilities at risk,” said Ramon Del Rosario, Solane’s Chief Operations Officer.

The new Solane safety cap and seal is made from high-grade plastic that’s plugged and sealed - you may re-use the Solane safety cap by plugging and locking it in the LPG valve, especially when you are storing your LPG tank. It is tamper proof and has visible markings to help ensure customers they are getting authentic Solane LPG. Each safety cap and seal features embossed Solane and flame girl logos and has a unique serial number to protect Solane customers from illegal LPG refillers. 

Rip-off the tab from the safety cap and then log on to Facebook. Go to Solane’s page (www.facebook.com/Solane.PH) and click on Apps to use the Solane Authenticity Checker. Enter the serial number to verify if the tank came from a licensed Solane dealer.

Increasing Awareness on Public Safety

Furthermore, in observance of this year’s Fire Prevention Month, Solane has intensified its safety campaign in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

Under the partnership, Solane will hold a series of training programs with BFP personnel, local government units, including selected communities and barangays around the country. The extensive talks will further enhance the expertise of these groups in managing LPG related explosion, fire and, even emergency response to these incidents.

To ensure you’re getting authentic Solane LPG with the innovative safety cap and seal, you may order Solane LPG for your household needs by going online at www.solane.com.ph, calling 887-5555 for home delivery within Metro Manila or sending SMS to its nationwide textline 0918-8875555.  Getting a refill for your LPG tanks at home has never been this safe and convenient. Every Solane LPG delivery to your home guarantees a 7-point Safety Check of your LPG system by our well-trained Solane LPG riders, which is a service exclusive only to Solane LPG users. For the LPG that’s strict sa quality, safety, and service, order na sa Hatid-Bahay Online!

Sulit.com.ph is now OLX.ph

Sulit.com.ph is now OLX.ph

New name represents a stronger invitation to people everywhere to join the online selling movement and become one of the next 1,000,000 Filipinos who sell their personal items they are no longer using on OLX. 

Sulit.com.ph, the Philippines’ leading buy-and-sell website, is now OLX.ph. The rebranding is set to inspire and encourage Filipinos to improve their lives by selling personal items they are no longer using and turning these to cash. The new name also emphasizes a stronger focus on making it faster and easier for ordinary Filipinos to sell their things online, connect with others to meet up, and complete transactions. 

“The name change represents our commitment to change how Filipinos perceive online selling. That selling stuff you no longer use is simple and can actually help you earn additional cash,” says OLX Philippines Managing Director RJ David who is running the rebranded site together with Arianne David – the same founders who propelled Sulit to online supremacy. 

Aside from providing a more convenient platform, OLX will also focus on growing its C2C business by encouraging every Pinoy to sell their unused items. David observes that “Filipinos do not have much of a tradition of selling 2nd hand items so that most households end up with a clutter of items that are no longer used. If sold, these can turn into real value, which people can use to buy new things.”

David explains that with OLX, Filipinos now have a quicker and more convenient way of selling their stuff.  And posting of ads remains free! Whether it be through the OLX app or the web, all they have to do is just click and post. Within seconds, you can already list an item for sale. Within minutes, your item will appear on OLX, possibly hear from interested buyers within hours, and within days, meet up with buyers who can trade your stuff for cash. “In no time at all, you’ll have simplified and improved your life by selling on OLX on a regular basis,” he adds.

On OLX, there are buyers for almost anything you have to sell – that guitar you no longer strum, your baby sister’s stroller tucked away in the bodega, or that kiddie bike that you and your siblings have outgrown. Millions of users from all over the world have already sold their items on OLX and now, you can too.

Previous Sulit members do not need to create a new user account or repost active ads since these will not be affected by the brand change. Everything that users came to love about Sulit – free posting of ads, wide variety of items for sale, and thousands of sellers to choose from – will all be reflected on OLX.

The website may bear their new brand name and colors but their commitment to make online selling easy for Filipinos remains the same. Some of the key improvements to expect include the simplified ad process, upgraded Android app which will soon become available on iOS, and the current expansion of their Customer Support to assist their users even at night and on weekends.

As expected, the rebranding will not affect the company’s local management team. Team OLX Philippines will still be managed by RJ and Arianne David, along with the same Sulit team that has been of service since Sulit’s launch in 2006.

With the new brand identity, OLX aspires to reach the next 1M Pinoy online sellers and David is positive they can achieve that in the near future. “Millions have already sold their items on OLX and Filipinos can easily do the same.”

And with this positive news, OLX Philippines also launches its “YESSS YAMAN!” movement – a campaign that enjoins the public to make online selling a conscious habit, and one that gives them extra earning opportunities while decluttering their homes from unused items.

Now, it’s time for every Pinoy to check their homes for items that are no longer being used because on OLX.ph, everything sells. 


Sell them, earn money, and say YESSS YAMAN! 

COMPLETE LIST OF 2013 BAR EXAM PASSERS

COMPLETE LIST OF 2013 BAR EXAM PASSERS

The Supreme Court announced today, March 18, 2014, that 1,174 out of the 5,293 examinees passed the October 2013 Bar exams. This figure translates to a passing rate of 22.18%, relatively higher compared to previous years’ passing rates. 

Here is the complete list of examinees who passed the 2013 Bar Exams held last October 2013: 

You can click on the particular letter below  (beginning letter of surname) for easy browsing -

A   B   C   D   E   F   G   H   I   J   K   L   M   N   O   P   Q   R   S   T   U   V   W   Y   Z

2013 BAR EXAMS TOP 10

2013 BAR EXAMS TOP 10

Leading the pack is Nielson G. Pangan from the University of the Philippines (UP). UP once again tops the 2013 Bar Examinations with a grade of 85.8%.

UP got 5 out of the Top 10 slots of successful examinees. It is the first time since 2005 that UP topped the bar.

A total of 1,174 aspiring lawyers passed the exams, comprising 22.18% of the examinees.

The Top 10 passers are as follows:

1. Nielson Pangan – University of the Philippines 85.8%

2. Mark Xavier D. Oyales – UP 85.45%

Dianna Louise R. Wilwayco – Ateneo de Manila 85.45%

3. Rudy Ortea – University of Batangas 84.2%

4. Eden Catherine Mopia – University of the Philippines 84.05%

5. Tercel Maria Mercado-Gephart – University of San Carlos 83.9%

6. Manuel Sarausad – University of Cebu 83.8%

7. Katrine Suyat – San Beda College Manila 83.75%

8. Michael Tiu Jr – University of the Philippines 83.70%

9. Marjorie Ivory Fulgueras – Ateneo de Manila 83.65%

10. Cyril Arnesto – University of the Philippines 83.60%

The passers will take their oath on April 28, 2014 at the Philippine International Convention Center.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday, March 18, announced the results before members of the media.

SC Associate Justice Arturo Brion, Chairperson of the 2013 Bar Examinations, announced the top 10 passers. Brion himself topped the bar examinations in 1974 with a grade of 91.65%.

COMPLETE LIST OF PHILIPPINE BAR EXAMS PASSERS OCTOBER 2013

COMPLETE LIST OF PHILIPPINE BAR EXAMS PASSERS OCTOBER 2013 

Greetings of peace!

Hi, everyone! I terribly miss blogging! Today is a special day because the Supreme Court of the Philippines is set to announce the top ten and the complete list of passers of the October 2013 Philippine Bar Exams ( it will soon be posted here as soon as the Supreme Court of the Philippines announces the results.) 

The passing grade was said to be 75%, with each subject area given the following weights to determine the examinee’s average:

Political and International Law – 15%
Labor and Social Legislation – 10 percent%
Civil Law – 15 percent%
Taxation – 10%
Mercantile Law – 15%
Criminal Law – 10%
Remedial Law – 20%
Legal Ethics and Practical Exercises – 5%

The exam schedule was:

October 6:
8 a.m. – 12 noon – Political Law
2 p.m. – 6 p.m. – Labor Law

October 13:
8 a.m. – 12 noon – Civil Law
2 p.m. – 6 p.m. – Taxation

October 20:
8 a.m. – 12 noon – Commercial Law
2 p.m. – 6 p.m. – Criminal Law

October 27:
8 a.m. – 12 noon – Remedial Law
2 p.m. – 6 p.m – Legal Ethics

The exam was mainly essay type (80%) and multiple choice questions (20%).

To view the results of the 2012 bar exam announced in March 2013, click here.

The previous years’ bar exam passing rates are as follows:

2012 — 17.76% ( 949 passers out of 5,343 examinees)
2011 – 31.94% (1,913 out of 5,990)
2010 – 20.26% (   982 out of 4,847)
2009 – 24.58% (1,451 out of 5,903)
2008 – 20.58% (1,310 out of 6,364)
2007 – 22.91% (1,289 out of 5,626)
2006 – 30.60% (1,893 out of 6,187)
2005 – 27.22% (1,526 out of 5,607)
2004 – 31.61% (1,659 out of 5,249)
2003 – 20.71% (1,108 out of 5,349)
2002 – 19.68% (    917 out of 4,659)
2001 – 32.89% (1,266 out of 3,849)
2000 - 20.84% (     979 out of 6,187)

Fast Facts:

• A total of 5,593 Law graduates took the annual Bar exams at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) administered by the Supreme Court during the four Sundays of October 2013 (6, 13, 20 and 27).
• The Supreme Court (SC) fondly said that two pregnant woman Bar examinees and a 77 year-old man were not hindered by their conditions to take the exam. 
• Meanwhile, SC said 300 examinees have decided to refuse and backed out to take the final test on October 27.

Wishing you success on your chosen career.

Love,

Travelonshoestring

HARVESTING THE BEST OF THE BEST

 HARVESTING THE BEST OF THE BEST

New year is a time to turn a new leaf - a bright new leaf.

This year's Bright Leaf Agriculture Journalism Awards, the annual showcase of the best published agriculture stories and photos as well as broadcast reports, is now open for entries from Filipino journalists residing in the Philippines.

The Bright Leaf Awards are given to the most outstanding and relevant agriculture stories in print, radio, and television.  It will also honor the most compelling photos that capture the essence of Tobacco farming and the agriculture industry.

Didet Danguilan, project head of the Bright Leaf Awards, is encouraging all professional Filipino journalists residing in the Philippines to join the competition as their way of sharing the successes of farmers through their stories—in whatever medium—to the public.

"Their stories need to be seen, heard and appreciated. The Bright Leaf Agriculture Journalism Awards is the best way to achieve that," she said.

The categories for the Bright Leaf Awards are:

• Agriculture Story of the Year
• Agriculture Photo of the Year
• Tobacco Story of the Year
• Tobacco Photo of the Year
• Best Television Program or Segment
• Best Radio Program or Segment
• Best National News Story
• Best Regional News Story
• Best National Feature Story
• Best Regional Feature Story and
• The Oriental Leaf Award.  This special award is given to those who have won a Bright Leaf Award in any category for five consecutive years.  The Oriental Leaf Awardees become part of an elite group of individuals that comprise the Bright Leaf Hall of Fame.

"We want to highlight the stories that enlighten and inspire our countrymen.  This is even more important now because of the recent typhoons and earthquakes that have greatly impacted the agriculture industry.”  Ms. Danguilan added, “This is one way to provide some light in what was a very dark time for the Filipino farmer.”

The competition aims to collect a larger crop of entries than any other year by actively reaching out to tri-media practitioners from more agricultural provinces to invite them to submit their articles and photos.

Participation in The Bright Leaf Awards is free of charge. Entries should be published, aired or broadcast locally between Sept. 1 2013 and August 31, 2014. Contestants can submit as many stories in any of the categories but no story can be entered into more than one category.

Entries may be in English or any of the Philippine regional dialects.  For entries that are not in English, participants are required to provide an English translation.

For entry forms and more information, please visit www.thebrightleafawards.com or contact the official Bright Leaf secretariat at (02) 697-8110, (0915) 5508301 or (0918) 4130797 or email secretariat@thebrightleafawards.com.

ANTIPOLO: Floating Jesus Christ

ANTIPOLO: Floating Jesus Christ

I got an eerie feeling the first time I laid my eyes on the floating Jesus Christ statue inside the chapel of Pinto Art Museum in Antipolo City, Philippines.

Jesus Christ was depicted as someone that is full of shingles like wound all over his body. He was bald. The statue made me think. I know that it is the artist interpretation of Jesus Christ, but I prefer to paint Jesus Christ smiling at me than seeing him dying on the cross.

Pinto Art Museum is located at Silangan Gardens No. 1 Sierra Madre Street, Grandheights, Antipolo City, Rizal. Telephone number is 02-6971015. Entrance fee is P150 for adults, P120 for senior citizens, and P75 for students with IDs. Prenup-shoot fee is P3,000 (upper garden), P5,000 (upper and lower garden), P10,000 (upper and lower gardens and new museum wing). For more information, email them at pintoartmuseum@yahoo.com.

Disclaimer: This is not a paid post. I just want to share to the whole world how beautiful my country is.

AMY WEBB: How to find Mr. Right

AMY WEBB: How to find Mr. Right

I am one of those women with a very high standard in a man. That's why I could totally relate to Amy Webb when she talked out peer pressure, family pressure and finding Mr. Right.

Amy Webb is a woman who had high standards when it comes to men, and that’s why she remained single for a long time. Then, she tried and joined online dating sites to find his Prince Charming. I have not tried this yet, but my friend did.

Amy had no luck. The guys she liked didn’t reply back, while those who got attracted to her profile were not her type.

Her grandma, mom and sis said to her that she’s just being too picky.

So she changed her strategy… and succeeded.

This TED Talk video will show you in less than 18 minutes her amazing story on how she found true love on the internet.

MANILA'S BEAUTIFUL SUNSET

MANILA'S BEAUTIFUL SUNSET

I luckily captured Manila's beautiful sunset when I was there. God is so good. He gave us eyes to appreciate nature. 

Start each day with a grateful heart.

See each person as a blessing.

Appreciate life. Appreciate your family and friends.

For you never know when you will say goodbye.

MRT 3: Extends Operating Hours

MRT 3: Extends Operating Hours

Good news to all the MRT-3  Riding public! To better serve you ( thecommuting public), the Metro Rail Transit 3 (MRT-3) will extend its operating hours starting yesterday.. 

Yes, peeps! Beginning February 24, 2014,  from the current usual operating hours that commence beginning 5:30 a.m. to 22:30 p.m., the MRT-3 now runs from 04:30 in the morning at North Avenue Station and starting 05:00 in the morning at the Taft Avenue Statio.

The Department of Transportation and Communication will later decide whether to make the longer schedule permanent.

NEW PHILHEALTH CONTRIBUTION TABLE EFFECTIVE JANUARY 2014

NEW PHILHEALTH CONTRIBUTION TABLE EFFECTIVE JANUARY 2014

Memorandum Circular 027-2013 dated September 30, 2013 amend the PhilHealth contributions of individuals, overseas workers, and the employed sector. 

The change in the contributions took effect last January 1, 2014. Business sectors including all other concerned are hereby notified to comply with the new rates of PhilHealth Contribution.

Excerpts from MC 027-2013

1. The premium rate shall be at 2.5%
2. Salary bracket shall still be used
3. Salary bracket floor shall start at Php 8,000.00
4. Salary Bracket ceiling shall be pegged at Php 35,000.00

Salary Bracket	Salary Range	Salary Base	Total Monthly Premium	Employee Share	Employer Share
*Employee share represents half of the total monthly premium while the other half is shouldered by the employer.
1	8,999.99 and below	8,000.00	200.00	100.00	100.00
2	9,000.00 – 9,999.99	9,000.00	225.00	112.50	112.50
3	10,000.00 – 10,999.99	10,000.00	250.00	125.00	125.00
4	11,000.00 – 11,999.99	11,000.00	275.00	137.50	137.50
5	12,000.00 – 12,999.99	12,000.00	300.00	150.00	150.00
6	13,000.00 – 13,999.99	13,000.00	325.00	162.50	162.50
7	14,000.00 – 14,999.99	14,000.00	350.00	175.00	175.00
8	15,000.00 – 15,999.99	15,000.00	375.00	187.50	187.50
9	16,000.00 – 16,999.99	16,000.00	400.00	200.00	200.00
10	17,000.00 – 17,999.99	17,000.00	425.00	212.50	212.50
11	18,000.00 – 18,999.99	18,000.00	450.00	225.00	225.00
12	19,000.00 – 19,999.99	19,000.00	475.00	237.50	237.50
13	20,000.00 – 20,999.99	20,000.00	500.00	250.00	250.00
14	21,000.00 – 21,999.99	21,000.00	525.00	262.50	262.50
15	22,000.00 – 22,999.99	22,000.00	550.00	275.00	275.00
16	23,000.00 – 23,999.99	23,000.00	575.00	287.50	287.50
17	24,000.00 – 24,999.99	24,000.00	600.00	300.00	300.00
18	25,000.00 – 25,999.99	25,000.00	625.00	312.50	312.50
19	26,000.00 – 26,999.99	26,000.00	650.00	325.00	325.00
20	27,000.00 – 27,999.99	27,000.00	675.00	337.50	337.50
21	28,000.00 – 28,999.99	28,000.00	700.00	350.00	350.00
22	29,000.00 – 29,999.99	29,000.00	725.00	362.50	362.50
23	30,000.00 – 30,999.99	30,000.00	750.00	375.00	375.00
24	31,000.00 – 31,999.99	31,000.00	775.00	387.50	387.50
25	32,000.00 – 32,999.99	32,000.00	800.00	400.00	400.00
26	33,000.00 – 33,999.99	33,000.00	825.00	412.50	412.50
27	34,000.00 – 34,999.99	34,000.00	850.00	425.00	425.00
28	35,000.00 and up	35,000.00	875.00	437.50	437.50

CENTURY TUNA: Unveils Superbods Super Challenge Website

CENTURY TUNA: Unveils Superbods Super Challenge Website

Anne Curtis has a super body, that is why she's the perfect endorser of Century Tuna Superbod. And because Anne is unkabogable. Century Tuna launched a new website that features daily diet and workout plan designed to show that everybody can be a Superbod like Anne Curtis.

Now that summer is just around the corner, it is once again time to get that perfect body -- toned and fit. Admit it, evrerybody wants to flaunt that super body that is why summer is the much-awaited season of Filipinos.

To help everyone get started on the road to fitness, Century Tuna has unveiled the My Road to Superbods website (http://www.centurytuna.ph/superbodschallenge), an online portal featuring a daily diet and workout plan, put together by two of the country’s most trusted and most popular fitness experts. 

Developed for loyal consumers of Century Tuna, the website was created to guide everyone on the road to their personal transformation as Superbods. 

“We all know that Century Tuna Superbods is one of the most awaited summer events in the country and this year, we’re making it even more exciting by enjoining our consumers to be part of the Superbods experience,” said Greg Banzon, General Manager of Century Pacific Food Inc.

He adds, “This year’s Century Tuna Superbods is all about Transformation. We believe that this event will become more meaningful if we can help transform our loyal consumers into Superbods themselves. With the My Road to Superbods website, we’re making it possible for them to work on becoming fit and healthy. It’s a huge effort for us – we’ve tapped two of the country’s most trusted fitness experts to put this website together – but it’s something worth doing as part of our commitment to promoting health and fitness among Filipinos.”

The website will have two main components – the Century Tuna Superbods Meal Plan by top dietitian Nadine Tengco, and the Century Tuna Superbods Workout Plan by Coach Jim Saret.

Nadine is a US-certified fitness nutritionist who designed the Detox-in-a-Bottle. Initially developed in 2009 for her celebrity clients, the program became hugely popular. The soups and juices had since been standardized and are now being prepared by her partners and distributors.

Meanwhile, Coach Jim is the founder and training director of APEX (Athletic Performance Enhancement) Sports Training. A former National Athlete, he completed his Master's Degree in Sports Medicine/Athletic Training at Brigham Young University in the United States. While in the US, he worked with elite olympic athletes, professional athletes, world-class sports science/sports medicine specialists and training centers.

On the Meal Plan page, Nadine will share recipes – some of which include Century Tuna products – that everyone can follow. Delicious and healthy, Century Tuna contains Omega 3, which helps burn body fat, shrink abdominal fat cells and stop certain genes that trigger inflammation on belly fat, in addition to promoting a healthy heart.

On the Workout Plan page, Coach Jim Saret will upload his 6-week workout challenge schedule, which combines aerobic, cardiovascular, weight training, and stretching exercises, among others.

The launch of the My Road to Superbods website is a run-up to the Century Tuna Superbods Super Challenge, the hottest and most awaited summer event in the Philippines. It will be held on April 25-27, 2014 in the country’s ultimate beach destination, Boracay.

For this competition, Century Tuna gathers males and females between 18 to 35 years old with a fit and healthy body and passion for healthy lifestyle. Celebrities also flock to the event, which promises fun activities, parties, freebies and treats for beach lovers