PLANE CRASHED: DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo Missing

PLANE CRASHED: DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo Missing.

At about  5 p.m. on Saturday, August 18, 2012, Department of Interior & Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jesse Robredo was declared missing after the plane carrying him and two others crashed in the waters of Boulevard, Brgy. Ibingay Masbate.

Robredo along with his aide boarded a private, white, six-seater Piper Seneca twin engine plane heading to Naga City from a conference in Cebu City.

Capt. Jessup Bahinting, owner of Aviatour Flying School, was the pilot of the ill-fated plane. The two others were flight student Kshitiz Chand, a Nepalese, and Robredo’s aide.

Hon. Jesse Robredo is a fellow Bicolano, who I happened to know personally. Our dad used to work as an accountant for Robredo's family business. 

Leni, Robredo's wife, happened to be my brother's classmate in the college of law in Naga and my brother's co- lawyer. Leni confirmed that Hon. Jesse Robredo called at about 4:30 p.m. to say that the airplane was having an engine problem. The call was immediately cut off. There was no contact after that. 

The pilot after experiencing engine trouble sent a distress call to the Masbate Airport at around 4:30 p.m. requesting for an emergency landing but crashed more or less 500 meters short of the runway.

Citing initial reports, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (Caap) head William Hotchkiss said the plane took off from Cebu at 3 p.m.

Robredo was in Cebu for the national summit of the Convenors of the Community Investigative Support (CIS) National Summit and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) at the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC) in Mandaue City.

Hon. Jesse Robredo had initially booked a flight with Cebu Pacific but eventually flew onboard the plane which was owned by one of the pilots.

Please say a little prayer for the safe return of Sec. Robredo. I hope and pray he's still alive. As of 8:30 p.m., Robredo remained missing along with the two pilots. His aide, identified as Jun Abrazado, survived the crash with only slight injuries.

Photo Source: PTV

Let’s join Chef Lau’s Dinner Party!

Let’s join Chef Lau’s Dinner Party!

Who is Chef Lau?

Chef Rolando “Lau” Laudico is the executive chef of Bistro Filipino which offers his signature traditional and modern Filipino cuisine. He is one of the Philippines’ most well-loved culinary personalities. He is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, he worked in France as an apprentice at L’Essentiel. Chef Lau with wife Jackie put up Chef Laudico Culinary Services which provides catering for special events. BFAST in Ayala Triangle Gardens which serves breakfast favorites the whole day is Chef Lau’s newest venture. He is a self-confessed foodie. “Food is my life, my love, it’s what fuels me and inspires me. I enjoy eating everything and anything! As long as it's cooked well with a lot of love.“quips Chef Lau.

I should be invited to Chef Rolando Laudico’s Dinner party because I always wanted to be a chef and I wouldn't miss this opportunity to see Bistro Filipino's executive chef in person and have a picture taken with him. It is my post-birthday wish to taste the different dishes prepared by Chef Lau. I couldn't wait to blog and take photos of his wonderful food creations. I bet all my readers will be thrilled too.

Like Chef Lau, I also suffered from tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is a common name for Dentine Hypersensitivity. In Filipino, it is referred to as “pangingilo.” When a hot, cold, sweet or very acidic food or drink causes a short, sharp discomfort on your teeth, then you may have sensitive teeth.

I used to deal with sensitive teeth by brushing my teeth using another brand of toothpaste for sensitve teeth before but they're ridiculously expensive! So, to save money, I went to the extent of using Chinese medicines just to ease the pain. 

I hated those days when I had to use ear buds, dipped them inside the bottle of Chinese medicine and soaked my teeth with them. Leaving an unsightly stains on my teeth. Yikes. Some people had actually thought that I chewed Betel nut because of those unsightly stains. Geez!

It was such a relief when my favorite toothpaste brand Colgate® came up with their own version of a toothpaste that eases out the pain of sensitive teeth. So, if like me, you’re suffering from tooth sensitivity too, try the latest breakthrough from Colgate® -- Colgate® Sensitive Pro-Relief® Toothpaste! It provides Instant* Relief and Lasting Protection against tooth sensitivity.

Like Chef Lau, be more confident in tasting different food without the fear of tooth sensitivity.

 

 Colgate® Sensitive Pro-Relief® Toothpaste relieved Chef Lau's pain base on this video:

Be sensitivity-free, use Colgate® Sensitive Pro-Relief® toothpaste.

Directions :

Simply massage a small amount on the sensitive tooth for 1 minute and enjoy Instant relief to sensitive teeth. With regular, twice daily use, it builds a lasting barrier that acts like a protective seal against sensitivity.

*For Instant Relief, massage a small quantity on sensitive tooth for one minute. Brush regularly, for lasting relief and protection.

It has Pro-Argin™ Formula, clinically proven to provide relief from tooth sensitivity by effectively plugging the channels to block the tooth sensitivity.

Other sensitivity toothpastes* primarily numb the tooth sensitivity. However, the tubules that lead to the tooth center remain open. When these open tubules come in contact with hot, cold, sour or sweet triggers, it may still cause the sharp sensations. They merely address the symptom, not the cause.

Colgate® Sensitive Pro-Relief® is 2x more effective** in providing sensitivity relief. Because it tackles the root cause of sensitivity, you can now eat and drink your favorite treats without fear.

*vs. potassium-based sensitivity toothpaste
*with twice daily, regular brushing for 2 weeks
**Based on average testing index, J Clin Dent 20 (Spec Incl; 17-22, 2009)

Tutuban Idol 2012

Good News Singing bees! Tutuban Idol 2012 calls for entries!

Tutuban Center launches the search for Tutuban Idol 2012

Last year's contest was won by Rachel Gabreza and it was highly successful. That's why the bargain shopping hub brings back this musical competition to discover the next singing superstar.

Tutuban Idol is open to the following:

• Male and Female
• 15 to 25 years old

How do you register?

• Fill up application form at Tutuban Center Ad & PR office, located at the 2nd floor, Centermall 2, Tutuban Center
• Application forms can also be downloaded via tutuban.com.ph or through Facebook (facebook.com/tutubancenter).
  
  Applicants should bring one whole body picture, a copy of his/her birth certificate and a valid ID (school ID, NBI Clearance, passport, etc.) Upon submission of the application form, applicants will be screened by the Ad & PR personnel of Tutuban Center. Those who pass the screening process will be allowed to compete in the elimination round where they must sing two songs: 1 ballad or pop song and 1 Christmas-themed song.

Accepting of applications for Tutuban Idol 2012 will start from September 1-14, 2012. The elimination phase will run from September 15, 2012 until November 16, 2012, with a wildcard phase on November 17, 2012.

Winners in the eliminations will automatically qualify in the grand finals, which will be held on November 24, 2012. Criteria for judging involve voice quality at 50%, 20% for song interpretation, and 10% each for stage presence, audience impact and appearance, for a total of 100%.

Who knows? That untapped singing talent of yours may soon be the next toast of the entertainment world.
So join “Tutuban Idol 2012.” For more information, visit www.tutuban.com.ph or “LIKE” their Facebook page (facebook.com/tutubancenter).

KADAYAWAN SA DABAW 2012 PARADE ROUTE

KADAYAWAN SA DABAW 2012 PARADE ROUTE 

August 18, 2012

8:00 A.M.

KADAYAWAN SA DABAW FESTIVAL 2012: Schedule of Activities

City Tourism Operations Office
Headed by Jason Magnaye
For inquiries, kindly contact the office:
Davao City Investment Promotion Center, and City Tourism Operations Office
Magsaysay Park Complex, R. Magsaysay Avenue
8000 Davao City, Philippines
Telefax: +63 82 227 2880

PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES: National PWD Voter Registration Day

 
National PWD Voter Registration Day

All Comelec offices, except those in the flooded areas and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), held a special registration last Saturday, August 11, 2012 to encourage People With Disabilities to participate in the 2013 elections. However, the special voter registration for PWDs did not push through in areas that are still submerged in flood waters like :

• Bulacan 
• Pampanga 
• Cainta 
• Marikina  
• Pasig

PWD's could still file their applications for registration until October 31, the end of the registration period for the midterm elections next year.

Yes, People With Disabilities has a Right of Suffrage. So, please let me remind all qualified PWD's across the country who were not able to register over the weekend may still do so anytime in the Comelec office nearest them or in designated registration sites in their areas so they can vote in accessible polling places next year.

OVERPRICED LPG

CALLING THE ATTENTION OF DOE, DTI, PRICE WATCH, CONSUMER WELFARE OF THE PHILIPPINES!

There are unscrupulous individuals who present themselves as businessmen with no proper receipt that sells LPG at Php 730 to 750 per 11 kg. tank.

Reason # 1 given: Sunday daw ngayon kaya walang resibo! Uhuh! That was their exact words when we ordered LPG the last time. I wonder kung may resibo sila kapag Monday ako nag order? BIR??

Reason #2: Mahirap ang supply. As in pahirapan makakuha ng delivery. Some independent refillers and small retailers, are still waiting for their supplies as transport ships have been unable to dock and discharge their cargo of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) due to the rough seas at the Bataan port.

DOE, sabi ninyo there was enough supply for residents of Metro Manila and nearby provinces ano nangyari?

Upon checking DOE's website today, August 12, 2012, merely eleven days after DOE posted the suggested retail prices. I found out that these businessmen increased their prices from Php 568 to Php 730, that is more than 100 pesos, my golly!

Yes, you read it right! As of August 1, 2012 the price for an 11 kg. LPG is pegged at Php 568.00. However, LPG players raised the prices of cooking gas by P7 per kilogram this month or P77 per 11-kg tank. This hike was due to the $168.50-per-metric-ton increase in the international contract price of LPG to $775 per ton, from the previous month’s price of $606.50 per ton.

According to a news report, LPG prices must not exceed Php 700.00.

Petron Genuine Gasul with FREE DELIVERY sells LPG at PHP 676.00 more than fifty pesos (Php 50.00) cheaper than those unscrupulous businessmen.

DOE appeal to customers to report to DOE retailers who are selling overpriced products, by calling (02) 840-2184. Overpricing of petroleum products such as LPG is sanctioned with an administrative fine of at least P10,000 and an appropriate criminal offense.

I believe that businessmen should NEVER raise prices especially after the flood.  I hope hindi sila manamantala, sa mga flood victims at sa iba pang Filipino in general. On behalf of the Filipino People, I urged distributors of basic commodities to be compassionate and not to take advantage of flood victims and Filipino people in general. Please do not hike the prices of goods and services. Maawa po kayo sa kapwa ninyo please.

Sa mga Government agencies: Paki aksyonan po please. Salamat.

PHILIPPINE RED CROSS: Ready -To-Eat Meals

PHILIPPINE RED CROSS: Ready -To-Eat Meals

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has delivered assistance to thousands of residents affected by heavy rains and floods due to monsoon rains.

Super nakakabilib ang idea ng Red Cross na ready-to-eat meals. Pag basa ang posporo mo at walang malutuan at basang basa ka na sa baha at kumakalam na ang sikmura.

Red Cross staff and volunteers have served ready-to-eat meals to 10000 people so far.

Photo From Carlo Ople

INTRAMUROS WALKING TOUR: Carlos Celdran Sudden Barter Tour

What:   Sudden Barter tour
When:  Today at 4pm. Friday. August 10.
Where: Meet at Fort Santiago ticket booth under the Acacia tree. 


It's SUNNY! Come walk with me. -  Carlos Celdran

  
Please come to the "If These Walls Could Talk" tour. Pay what you want. As in. No minimum. Pay anything. Five pesos to Five Hundred Pesos. All payment will go to relief efforts. Hope to see you all there. 

LIST OF LOCATIONS OF SMART LIBRENG TAWAG STATIONS

LIST OF LOCATIONS OF SMART LIBRENG TAWAG STATIONS

Smart is continuously providing free call services to people affected by the recent flooding. Libreng Tawag stations are currently operating in 12 sites as on 9:00 AM today (Aug 9):

Marikina

- Malanday Barangay Hall
- H. Bautista Elementary School, Concepcion
- Concepcion High School, Tumana
- Nangka Elementary School

Rizal
- Sta. Ana Covered Court, San Mateo

Navotas
- Dagat-dagatan Elementary School

Quezon City
- Sto. Domingo Church, Quezon Avenue
- Atherton Subdivision
- North Fairview Homes

Manila
- Vicente Cruz St., Sampaloc

Muntinlupa
- Tunasan Elementary School
- Muntinlupa Sports Complex

Pampanga
- Plaza Burgos, Guagua
- Poblacion, Floridablanca

Cavite
- Cavite Coliseum, Bacoor

To follow: Malabon and Valenzuela

Smart is also coordinating with the local governments of Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela and other affected localities for the immediate deployment of Libreng Tawag personnel.

Smart is reminding its subscribers to stay alert and to keep their mobile phones ready for emergencies. Charge batteries whenever possible and conserve power. Save emergency numbers and store extra prepaid load cards. As of this time, Smart’s network is up and running to provide services to its subscribers in the affected areas.

NOTE: This is not a paid post I just to share this Free Information.

LIST OF PASSABLE AND NOT PASSABLE ROADS AND AREAS IN METRO MANILA

Below is the list provided by MMDA of flooded roads and areas in Metro Manila after rains intensified again on Wednesday afternoon.

As of 7:10 PM

C5 NB Market to Bagong Ilog-(ML),lanuza to J Vargas-(M),after light to Katipunan,C5 SB-light #mmda

As of 7:10 PM

Edsa SB Muñoz to N Ave-(M),NIA Road to Aurora-(MH),after light to Magallanes 


As of 7:10 PM

Edsa NB Macapagal-(M),Magallanes to Aurora Blvd-(H),Cubao-(M),Trinoma to Muñoz-(M)

As of 6:57 PM

Cubao underpass now closed to traffic

As of 6:47 PM

BMC, BBB Puregold & Calye Uno; already subsided  Quezon Ave BIR u-turn slot; above gutter.

Sct. Reyes/ Sct. Chuatoco; 13014 inches. Not passable to light vehicles

Andrew Domestic; 1 lane passable both direction

Sta. Ana pandacan; waist deep

Kalentong, Mandaluyong; chest deep.

As of 6:46 PM

Along Chino Roces from Don Bosco to Makati Square, not passable

As of 6:42 PM

For those who are heading south,c5 market market traffic is not moving. Take mckinley hill instead.

As of 6:20 PM

• South Super Highway Buendia & Osmeña Highway-Makati, both direction, above knee. Not passable to light vehicles.

As of 5:20 PM

• C5 NB, near Market Market and Ortigas
• EDSA-P.Tuazon tunnel

As of 5 PM

• Katipunan Road, Balara; waist-deep. Not passable to all types of vehicles.
• C.P Garcia UP; waist-deep. Not passable to all types of vehicles.
• Ateneo SB; knee-deep. Not passable to light vehicles.
• Timog Avenue/ Tomas Morato. Not passable to light vehicles.
• RMB Pureza, both direction. Not passable to all types of vehicles.
• ERB Araneta. Not passable to all types of vehicles.

As of 4:11 PM

• C5 Eagle St. SM Hypermarket, both direction; waist-deep. Not passable to all types of vehicles.
• Shaw Araullo; waist-deep. Not passable to all types of vehicles.
• EDSA-Santolan NB; above gutter-deep. Passable to all types of vehicles.

As of 4:04 PM

• Quezon Ave. ground level, both direction; above gutter-deep. Not passable to light vehicles.
• Puregold Dagohoy Samson Rd/ Lascano. Not passable to all types of vehicles.

As of 3:41 PM

• Quezon Ave.-Banawe. Not passable to light vehicles.
• MIA Rd. going terminal; half tire. Not passable to light vehicles.
• Andrews Ave. going to Del Mundo; gutter-deep, 2 lanes occupied.

As of 3:29 PM

• Aurora tunnel NB & SB; not passable to light vehicles.

As of 3:37 PM

• Bonifacio Monument Circle; 10-12 inch-deep. Not passable to light vehicles.

As of 3:25 PM

• Capitol, Balara. Not passable to all types of vehicles.

As of 3:06 PM

• Quezon Ave.-Banawe WB; 6 inches
• Quezon Ave. westbound - Biak na Bato; half tire. Not passable to light vehicles.
• Maria Clara St. - Araneta Ave; Not passable to all types of vehicles.
• Wilcon, Commonwealth; 3 inches

As of 3 PM

• Recto/ Morayta - half tire. Not passable to light vehicles
• Araneta Ave.-Sto. Domingo St. - 4 ft-deep. Not passable to all types of vehicles.
• Taft Rotonda SB & NB; half tire. Not passable to light vehicles.
• Araneta Ave/ Maria Clara; 6 inch-deep, both direction, one lane passable.
• Lacson towards UST. Not passable to light vehicles
• Pureza RMB both direction; half tire, Not passable to light vehicles.
• Plaza Avelino, 5 inch-deep. Passable to all types of vehicles.

GREEN WARNING SIGNAL FOR METRO MANILA

GREEN WARNING SIGNAL:
Issued at: 03:30 PM, 08 August 2012 (Wednesday)
Target Areas: Metro Manila

Torrential rainfall (30.0-50.0 mm/hr) over Manila, Pasig, Mandaluyong & San Juan, Heavy to Intense rainfall (15.0-25.0 mm/hr) was recorded over Pasay, Marikina, QC, North of Caloocan, Taguig & Makati while Moderate to Heavy rainfall (7.5-15.0 mm/hr) over the rest of Metro Manila.

Due to the effect of the series of thunderstorms embedded in the Southwest Monsoon, expect Heavy to Intense (15.0-30.0mm/hr) rains with occasional Torrential (more than 30.0mm/hr) rains over CAMANAVA, Manila, Pasig, Pasay, Taguig, San Juan, Mandaluyong, Marikina, Makati & QC within 2 hrs.

Residents in flood/landslides risk areas are advised to take precautionary measures and WATCH OUT for the next warning.

Ortigas Extension towards Junction was no longer passable to light vehicles as of 3 p.m. 

Wednesday according to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.

CLASS SUSPENSION
Adamson University has announced the suspension of work and classes in all levels Thursday, August 9, 2012.

Xavier classes are said to be suspended until Friday.
 

SOME GOOD NEWS

Smart Communications said they had begun to offer free call and text services in key areas and evacuation centers around the metropolis and surrounding areas.

The San Miguel group said its Philippine Airlines subsidiary had waived rebooking fees of passengers unable to take their flights Tuesday. Rebooking for affected passengers would be subject to fare and booking class seat availability.

The SM group said its malls would stay open, wherever possible, for customers “looking for basic necessities or simply seeking alternatives venue for home away from rains and floods.”

Please refrain from going out of the house if possible. Be safe and dry darlings! God bless us all! Pray! 

STATE OF CALAMITY : Declared in 9 Metro Manila, Luzon areas

STATE OF CALAMITY : Declared in 9 Metro Manila, Luzon areas. 

Nine areas in Metro Manila and other parts of Luzon struck by massive flooding due to non-stop rains have been placed under a state of calamity.

Among the areas in Metro Manila that have been declared under a state of calamity were: 

• Valenzuela
• Malabon 
• Muntinlupa  
• Marikina City
• Caloocan City
• Manila City
• Quezon City
• Muntinlupa City

Following days of torrential rains brought by the southwest monsoon. Several provinces are now also declared under a state of calamity they are the following:

• Bataan
• Laguna
• Pampanga 
• Zambales
• Cainta and San Mateo in Rizal province. 

In areas under a state of calamity declaration the following will take effect :

• It would allow the release and use of emergency funds, especially for rescue and relief efforts.   
• The government have a say and can also control the prices of basic commodities. Price control is automatically imposed when an area is in a state of calamity so traders cannot take advantage of the situation.

To ensure that basic commodities, including sardines, noodles, rice and sugar are being sold within the suggested retail price (SRP) a price monitoring team will be deployed  by the government especially at flood-hit areas.

Traders who sell above the SRP will be asked to explain and there will be penalties if the price increase is unwarranted.

In case, you encounter an establishment selling above the SRP, please file a complaint at DTI offices in your area.

Oil Retailers Hiked Fuel Prices TODAY

Oil retailers have meanwhile hiked fuel prices earlier today amid floods.

This is sad news :-(  

While Filipino people affected by the continuous rains are cleaning and removing water from their homes. Oil company giants Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp. and Total (Philippines) Inc. increased prices by P0.80 a liter for gasoline and P0.40 a liter for diesel. 

Also expected to increase prices Wednesday morning is SeaOil Philippines, Inc. 

I hope they suspend the oil price increase until the people have recovered from the floods :-(

SURVIVAL TIPS OF A BICOLANA DURING TYPHOON

SURVIVAL TIPS OF A BICOLANA DURING TYPHOON

I was born and raised in Bicol. Yes, it is where I grew up- in the eye of the storm.

Yes, folks, we always stock on food at home, in our car, office and in our bags. Because you could never tell when a storm will strike our province. This is because of the not so accurate info by the weather bureau when I was growing up. Sometimes our farm hand look for signs on our surroundings to determine how long the rain will be. Yes, a lot of you may laugh about what I had just said. But that is my personal experience while growing up.

Today, did you noticed the time when the state bureau advised Malacanang? Yes, you are so damn right! Only today, after a lot of people had braved the flood just to go to their respective offices. Why did those people went out when it was already flooded outside due to the incessant rains? It is because they value their work. They don't want to lose their jobs.

Our farm hand, back then could guess if there's a typhoon or rain coming the next day. Yes, you read it right. Before it actually happens. How did they determine typhoons? I will discuss that in another post. I admit, all I want to do now is to sleep all day because of the bed weather. We're lucky we still have electricity.  No one knows how long this climate will last even though the state bureau had announced already that it will last until Wednesday. But, then again, it was corrected by CNN American weather bureau, they insisted it will be up to Thursday. 

It is awful to be stuck in traffic or flooded areas in knee-deep water with a grumbling stomach. It’s always better to be armed with necessary stocks at home like the following food :

• Biscuits
• Bread 
• Candies
• Chocolates 
• Noodles
• Canned Goods that are ready to eat.
• Bottled water
• Soda, tea or coffee

Important Items that should be on hand:

•  Flashlight and Batteries 
•  Transistor Radio with Extra Batteries
•  Blanket/Comforters/Mattress/Pillows/Towels
•  Jacket/Sweaters/Socks/Caps/
•   Off Lotion
•  Umbrella/Tents 
•   Rain Boots
•   Scissor/ Knife
•   Twine
•   Candles
•   Dry Matches
•   Big Pails 
•   If possible have your own Lifesaver device/ Life Vest, Old Inner tubes/ interior /Styrofoam 
•   Antiseptic/First Aid Kits/Medicine bags

Fit everything in one “EMERGENCY BAG,” so it’s easy to locate and grab. 

Cash is king during power outage. Always have extra cash handy. ATM's and Credit Cards might not be available or accessible especially if there's a power outage.

Load up! How can you ask ask for help via text or calls if you don't have a load.

Charge all gadgets especially emergency light, mobile phones for communication, rechargeable radio, rechargeable fan. 

Yes, I have a rechargeable fan in our house aside from my rechargeable emergency light.

Experience thought me it can get warm after the storm and we usually don't have electricity up to one month after a storm had passed.

Improvised flotation device can be made out of empty Soda/ Juice/ Water Plastic Bottles. Just securely tie (very important) the plastic bottles together, 10-20  pieces will do and it can work as a flotation device for one person. An innovative Pinoy made a boat out of this empty plastic containers. See photo above which I saw on Facebook, credits to the owner of that boat
I also saw a picture of a dog with a empty bottles as Life Vest.

If you want to add some valuable tips please feel free to comment. Thanks. I hope you learn a thing or two from my this survival tips. Pray!

Keep safe! God bless us all!

EMERGENCY HOTLINE NUMBERS TO CALL

EMERGENCY HOTLINE NUMBERS TO CALL:

ABS-CBN Hotline 0928-5078592

National Disaster Coordinating Council – 912-2112 / 911-1873 / 912-2665



PNP 117 / 723-0410

NAIA 877-1109

MNTC 638-4380 to 88

MMDA 136

Citizens Disaster Response Center – 0906-4361185

Red Cross – 527-0000 / 524-5787

Coast Guard – 5278481

Bureau of Fire Protection – 729-5166

Pagasa – 433-8526

Senator Manny Villar – 0917-4226800 / 0927-6751981

Senator Richard Gordon – 0917-8997898 / 0938-444BOYS

Overseas Workers Welfare Administration – 0917-8986992

Department of Trade and Industry – 751-0330/ 0917-8540009

Department of Health – 7438301

Department of Interior and Local Government – 925-0343

Philippine National Police – 117

Metro Manila Development Authority – 136

National Capital Region Police Office – 838-3203 / 833-3354

Marikina – 646-2436 /161

Pasig – 643-0000

Cainta – 387-2992

Meralco – 631-2222

Napocor – 921-3541

Maynilad – 1625

Manila Water – 1627

Stay Safe and dry! Let us all pray that the rain will stop soon and the flood will subside. na.

RICHARD GORDON: Opens FB Page for Help Request

If you need to be rescued, call 143 and 527-0000. You can put a white blanket outside your house so that rescuers can easily locate where you are.

Former Senator Richard Gordon, chairman of the Philippine National Red Cross opens his Facebook page for everyone who needs help. He said that people could directly post their requests for rescue on his Facebook page or tweet him on his Twitter Account
   Richard Gordon, who chairs the PNRC, posted: 

"If you are unable to contact our hotlines as a last resort, please post in my wall on facebook the complete details, so that our volunteers can get back at you ASAP. Again our RED CROSS HOTLINE: 143 or 527-0000 or 911-1876 or 524- 5787. 

• Name
• Address
• Situations
• No. of people involved and there situation
• Contact numbers, etc

The PNRC chairman said they would need to prioritize the elderly and the sick in rescue efforts.

OVERFLOWING DAMS

"Damn those Dams" said a friend on a Social Network. Why was he reacting that way? It is because the water levels in major dams continue to rise due to heavy rains spawned by the southwest monsoon according to PAGASA.

As of 6 a.m., La Mesa Dam in Quezon City has overflowed and was at 80.54 meters, over and above its spilling level of 80.15meters, according to the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.

An overflow usually affects nearby areas such as:

• Tullahan River in Fairview
• Forest Hill
• Quirino Highway
• Capri
• Goodwill Homes in Sta. Quiteria
• Villages of San Bartolome in Quezon City
• Ligon North Expressway 
• La Huerta in Valenzuela 
• Malabon.

Ipo Dam in Bulacan opened two gates after its water level reached 101.10 meters, beyond its spilling level of 100.80 meters.

Part of the released water from Ipo Dam goes to La Mesa Dam.

Ambuklao Dam in Benguet is at 751.72 meters, nearing its spilling level of 752.00 meters. Two of its gates have been opened.

Three gates remain open in Binga Dam in Benguet after its water level reached 574.32 meters, also close to its spilling level of 575.00 meters.

San Roque Dam in Pangasinan is beyond its spilling level of 280.00 meters. Its water level has reached 283.36 meters as two of its gates were now open.

When Ambuklao, Binga and San Roque dams release water, the following municipalities in Pangasinan are likely to be affected:

• San Manuel
• San Nicolas
• Tayug
•  Sta Maria
•  Asingan
•  Villasis
•  Alcala
•  Bautista
•  Rosales
•  Bayambang

Magat Dam in Isabela is also beyond its spiling level of 190.00. Its water level is now at 191.42 meters.

Meanwhile, Caliraya Dam in Quezon is also nearing its spilling level of 288.00 meters. It is now at 287.27 meters.

WORK SUSPENSION

Better late than never! Please take care of yourselves. There's flood everywhere! 

In a Memorandum Circular No. 33 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. Malacanang announced the suspension of classes and work in government offices in Metro Manila and nine provinces today, Tuesday, due to non-stop rains brought about by the southwest monsoon locally known as Habagat.

Work in government offices and classes in college level are suspended today, 07August 2012 in the following locations:

• NCR (National Capital Region) 
• province of Zambales
• Bataan
• Pampanga
• Pangasinan
• Tarlac
• Bulacan
• Laguna
• Cavite
• Rizal

The same directive, however, said that agencies whose functions involve the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness/response to disasters and calamities, and/or the performance of vital public services shall continue with their operations and render the necessary services.

House also suspends session. PSE suspends trading. Work in courts are also suspended. MMDA lifted number coding except in Makati. 

#Twitter Update:

As of 7:20 AM

Twitter Updates: DOLE Sec. Rosalina Baldoz: Work in PRIVATE offices in NCR are suspended.
As of 7:40 AM

DOLE Sec. Baldoz CONFIRMS on LIVE interview on UKG that she has NO AUTHORITY to SUSPEND WORK in private offices and companies. Private companies still has the DISCRETION / DECISION on suspension.

UKG has announcement billboard for work suspension in private companies (but to be verified by employees on their own through a number given). For your own safety, just miss work today whether there’s suspension or not.

As of 10 AM

Malacanang has announced suspension of work in private companies in NCR. #NoWorkToday #Suspended

CARLO ROSSI: California Sweet Red A Matter of Taste

Philippine style of merry making almost always includes wine drinking, be it during birthdays, wedding, baptism and during a simple get-together or karaoke session.

Moderate intake of red wine improves cardiovascular health. A fact, that was backed up in 1992 by Harvard researchers. They specifically suggested that red wine is the most beneficial to your heart health. Yes, you read it right, drinking red wine in moderation is one of the eight proven ways to reduce coronary heart disease risk. The cardioprotective effect has been attributed to antioxidants present in the skin and seeds of red grapes.

Scientists believe the antioxidants, called flavonoids, reduce the risk of coronary heart disease in three ways: 

• by reducing production of low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (also know as the "bad" cholesterol) 
• by boosting high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (the good cholesterol) 
• by reducing blood clotting. Furthermore, consuming a glass of wine along with a meal may favorably influence your lipid profiles following that meal.

One study found that the antioxidant resveratrol, which is prevalent in the skin of red grapes, may inhibit tumor development in some cancers. Another study indicated that resveratrol aided in the formation of nerve cells, which experts believe may be helpful in the treatment of neurological diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

As a symbol of status and celebration, wine-drinking has become a part of many Filipino festivities and has become evident in Philippine lifestyle. While it has become a common sight, one may note that a hurdle to wine drinking among Filipinos is the preference for sweetness.                   
Carlo Rocci is a Sweet Red California made Red Wine. Experts described the Sweet Red as soft, mild, and sweet. At 8% as an alcohol delivery system it's more effective than beer.

A red wine that fits the Filipino taste, Rossi Sweet Red provides a well balanced palate, complemented by fresh fruit flavors and a velvety soft-finish.
 
As a symbol of status and celebration, wine-drinking has become a part of many Filipino festivities and has become evident in Philippine lifestyle. While it has become a common sight, one may note that a hurdle to wine drinking among Filipinos is the preference for sweetness.
“We Pinoys are known to have sweet tooth. We love sweet delicacies and it is apparent in our usual practices like cooking.                     
                                                                      
For instance, most of us enjoy our spaghetti because it’s sweet. There’s no wonder we also look for that sweetness in drinks, even in wines. Globally also, there is a growing preference for sweet wines,” shares Von de Torres, Managing Director of Emperador Distillers, the company that distributes the Carlo Rossi brand of red and white wines in the Philippines.

The market of wine drinkers has been growing and can be somehow attributed to the openness of females to wine drinking because of its perceived health benefits. However, the preference for sweet wine is dominant since they find dry wines bitter. To satisfy this, the company brings to the market, from Carlo Rossi, the No.1 Imported Wine in the Philippines-Rossi Sweet Red.

Crafted from grapes grown in California’s sun drenched vineyards, Rossi Sweet Red is soft and sweet, with layers of vanilla and flavors of bright cherry and wild raspberry. It is guaranteed to burst with flavor and aroma with the right alcohol content, so Rossi Sweet Red isn’t just grape juice packed in a wine bottle.

Furthermore, Rossi Sweet Red innovates a creative means to drink wines: Have it on the rocks. The ice complements the rich, deep red color and allows the drinker to enjoy its sweet taste in the smoothest way possible.

A lot of people say that this is the best wine to serve to non wine drinkers . I you want to have a toast with people that do not drink wine , and you are not willing to drink cheap wine coolers this is the option to go with .

It has a great aroma . It is sweet, but not too sweet . It has non tanine flavors or after taste . You can actually taste the wine.

It can be compared to Italian sweet wines , but with the plus side that Carlo Rossi is actually reasonably priced. 

This wine is light to medium in body. The palate is well balanced. Bright red fruit and floral hints lead to a crisp finish.

“This is a perfect fit for a tropical country such as ours,” says de De Torres.                                                                                
                                               Bottle-and-stemless-glassRET

The status and symbol that wine-drinking connote still remains but overall, the most important thing is still satisfaction.

Discover a different kind of sweetness from Rossi Sweet Red Wine, best enjoyed on the rocks.

Well balanced, this light to medium-bodied sweet red wine has flavors of bright red fruits and fresh floral notes with a nice crisp finish.