DFA Appointment System: No Confirmation Email for Passport Schedule

If you've made an appointment for DFA passport application and completed the online application on the 2016 slot you want. But did not receive a DFA confirmation email or DFA appointment code on your target date - well, you're not alone. There seems to be a glitch in the current system or a backlog on the Department of Foreign Affairs confirmation emails.

But don't PANIC! 

The email will come in, hours after. So don't worry!
There seems to be a delay in the system, but the DFA appointment code does eventually come in. Also do check your spam folder and other email folders.

Well what if it doesn't? What if I still don't have my email after 3 days?

The 72 Hour Reset of your Passport Booking Application
According to several Pinoys who have experienced this firsthand, there is a reset window. 


Your appointment booking has a reset of 72 hours (a total of 3 days since the time you filed it) meaning you can try booking the appointment slot you wanted after 3 days (if its still there).

 
If it's still not there and still no email. You will have to wait another 72 hours for the reset and apply again.

Keep in mind that whenever we apply to a government facility for paperwork we have to be patient.They are handling requests for the whole country. Compared to the situation decades ago, the government system in handling paperwork now is a huge leap. I commend the online ordering system of Census/NSO and the NBI Clearance which is quite efficient and very out of the dark ages. I hope the same can happen for the DFA and the UMID systems.

Notice to the Public Letter About Employee

To All,

Please be advised that Ms. Jessica Bravo Sims of Belaville Newt Avenue whose picture appears here is no longer connected to LLC Recruitment, Inc.since January 1, 2016. Any transaction made or which she may, hereafter undertake in behalf of LLC Recruitment shall not be honored by the company.

Management

PSA Certificate is the New NSO birth certificate

Huwag malito, PSA is the new NSO.

Request for your PSA (formerly NSO) birth certificate, a marriage certificate, a CENOMAR (Certificate of No Marriage Record), or request for a death certificate online from the Philippine Statistics Authority. Your PSA certificate will be delivered to you in 2-3 days anywhere in the Philippines. It's your fast and hassle-free way of processing your PSA certificate requests. 

We all have to get a new one dahil wala na ang NSO seal/logo, what's placed there is the new PSA logo. You will need a new one when you're applying for a passport or visa purposes.You will need a new PSA logo birth certificate if you're getting government digitized IDs.

Though mystery talaga ang BIR Digitized TIN ID, wala pa ako na me-meet na meron ito, DFA insists na meron and part ng accepted IDs, BIR says the print out ID they have ay yun na ang digitized ID. Anyone with the new digital BIR TIN ID that's similar to the digitized SSS UMID, sana i-post niyo.

But the PSA (Philippine Statistics Authority Birth Certificate) costs around P315 pesos then pay through banks BDO and Unionbank counters with the print out of your online application. You can apply for a PSA certificate- birth, death or CENOMAR via the census website online - https://www.ecensus.com.ph

Okay para malinaw, paano mag apply ng PSA Birth certificate, mag order sa website na ito Philippine Statistics Authority - https://www.ecensus.com.ph

Pokemon Go Philippines: MMDA Issues Public Safety Advisory to Pokemon Trainers

Just a friendly reminder from fellow Charmander hunters in the MMDA. What can I say? This is a good safety call from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority

 

 

Taiwan Excellence Philippines: Have Fun at the Taiwan Excellence Experiencing Zone at SM MOA on July 8 to 10

Interested in seeing more excellent Taiwanese products here in the Philippines? Do you want to experience some of the most exciting and innovative products from Taiwan?

Come visit the Taiwan Excellence Experiencing Zone at SM City Mall of Asia Atrium on July 8 to 10, 2016. Organized by the Bureau of Foreign Trade (BOFT) under MOEA of Taiwan government, the Taiwan Excellence Experiencing Zone will showcase Taiwan’s most dynamic brands, which bears the Taiwan Excellence seal that confirms their high quality and product superiority. Covering the ICT, Home and Living, and Sports and Leisure industries, mall goers will get the opportunity to discover Taiwan's best brands and purchase from a wide selection featuring more than 200 products from 54 brands like Acer, ASUS, D-Link, Sakura and Transcend.

For this mall event, variety of Taiwan’s sports and fitness equipment will also be showcased including KYMCO’s motorcycles that redefine transportation means; Pacific’s bikes that continuously provides inventive ways to make biking more exciting; and Johnson’s fitness products that can be your partner in maintaining your personal health.



For added excitement, there will be a dance group performance by Coven PH and a fashion show to keep you entertained while going through the assorted items on display. Watch Daryl Ong, Morissette Amon, and KZ Tandingan as they render a show-stopping performance. Model actor Mikael Daez and cosplayer sisters Ashley and Alodia Gosiengfiao will also be present to greet exhibit guests.

Join the booth navigation tours and brand presentations, and see how the featured products can complement your lifestyle. Brands such as Asus, Heartway, and MSI will offer their products at a discounted rate. There will also be games and lucky draws, wherein prizes will be raffled off to lucky guests.

Save the date and discover the possibilities that Taiwan brands can bring to your life!

About Taiwan Excellence
The symbol of Taiwan Excellence honors Taiwan’s most innovative products that provide tremendous value to users worldwide. All products carrying this symbol have been selected for specific Taiwan Excellence Awards based on their excellence in design, quality, marketing, Taiwanese R&D and manufacturing. Initiated by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), R.O.C. in 1992, the symbol of Taiwan Excellence is recognized by 100 countries.

Organized by Bureau of Foreign Trade (BOFT), MOEA
The Bureau of Foreign Trade (BOFT) under the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), R.O.C. is responsible for implementing policies and regulations governing foreign trade and economic cooperation. Established in January 1969, the BOFT's role and position have been adjusted regularly to meet the needs of the ever changing international economic and trade environments. The BOFT has been guiding and working with the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) in numerous promotional trade projects and activities both internationally and domestically. Having worked closely with TAITRA for many decades, the BOFT continues to commission TAITRA for various critical government projects relating to business, trade and investment, while promoting Taiwan internationally.

Implemented by Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA)
Founded in 1970 to help promote foreign trade, the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) is the foremost non-profit, semi-governmental trade promotion organization in Taiwan. Jointly sponsored by the government, industry associations, and several commercial organizations, TAITRA assists Taiwanese businesses and manufacturers with reinforcing their international competitiveness and in coping with the challenges they face in foreign markets. TAITRA boasts a well-coordinated trade promotion and information network of over 1,200 international marketing specialists stationed throughout its Taipei headquarters and 50 overseas offices worldwide. Together with its sister organizations, the Taiwan Trade Center (TTC) and the Taipei World Trade Center (TWTC), TAITRA has created a wealth of trade opportunities through effective promotion strategies.

How to Travel to Biñan Laguna from EDSA, Metro Manila Philippines?

How to commute to Biñan Laguna? Paano punta ng Biñan Laguna?

Traveling from Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) to Biñan City Laguna is very simple. How simple? Let us consider the two ways you can get there—travelling using your car or riding a public transportation.

 

If you are using your private car, it is recommended to travel early especially on Mondays and Fridays. You don’t want to spend two to three hours of your time getting stuck on traffic just because your alarm didn’t do its duty and wake you up around 5 AM to 7 AM which offers less to no traffic. Ready your gas for approximately 40 kilometers via Metro Manila Skyway and South Luzon Expressway (SLEX).

When travelling to Biñan Laguna by way of public transportation, you can just look for a bus terminal or wait for a bus going to Pacita along the stretch of EDSA. Or head off to a JacLiner Bus Station in Kamias, Quezon City (this is along Kamias-EDSA right beside Jollibee). Once you board it will be a 2-3 hour ride (depends on the traffic) and you will alight at the bus station in Biñan Laguna.

A Biñan Laguna bus ticket costs approximately Php70 and Php60 for students. If you want to go to the public market of Biñan, which is the largest public market in the CALABARZON region, you can just ride a jeepney going to Biñan.

That’s it. That is how you travel from EDSA to Biñan. 

Sample SSS Letters: Social Security System Philippines

Delayed ba ang SSS UMID mo? What about your SSS loan status? How to see your list of SSS Payments? Do you know your total SSS contributions?

Sample letters you can use to follow up inquiries at the Social Security System (SSS) in the Philippines.

Social Security System (SSS)
SSS Main Bldg, East Ave., Diliman, Q.C.

Here are some sample letters that can help you follow up on the status of your SSS issues. Just click on the link below:

Request Letter for UMID Card SSS ID

Status of SSS Loan Letter

Follow-up Letter on SSS Salary Loan

SSS Letter: How to Continue SSS Benefits Payments

Request Letter for Certificate of Employment: Availing SSS Maternity Health Benefits

Request for manual verification and computation of SSS Contributions

Sunshine Dizon Clarissa Sison: Asawa versus Kabit Showdown

Parang telenovela ang pinagdadaan ni Sunshine Dizon ngayon. Laban pa Pirena! Sunshine revealed that she found out about the illicit affair of her husband on June 2015. He was having an affair with a lady doctor in the very same condo where they lived.

“My nightmares began exactly june of last year. I’ve given you several chances, I swallowed everything for the sake of Doreen and Anton, I tried my best and gave my all. You have disregarded your responsibilities and turned into a monster, all the lies and deception.”

Mabangis ang mga sagot ni Sunshine, “Did you really think I was that stupid? Did you really think I would just cry in one corner and do nothing? Too bad this stupid girl isn’t stupid after all.” Sunshine also expressed her sadness that this incident has affected her two children, “You ruined two families. You ruined the lives of our children. For almost a year you had the audacity to live with that woman in the same building were your own children lives.”

Scarlet letter mo girl! Sorry Clang Sison, Sunshine screams No Annulment! There is no forgiveness for what you did. No annulment for you. I will seek justice. I will see you both in court.”

Maginhawa Street Quezon City Philippines

Maginhawa Street is one of the surrounding streets in Quezon City, Metro Manila. Located near UP Diliman campus in Quezon City, Maginhawa Street is a residential area. The street has become one of the places for relaxation and has sometimes been referred to as the “melting pot” street of cuisines. Maginhawa could be define as “convenient” or “cozy”. Many food enthusiast allocate most of their time to visit and discover many famous sights and landmarks that also regular people shouldn’t miss in this place.



The Nook is one of the famous restaurant and it is Maginhawa’s very own piece of Hogwarts. Inside the street you could also enjoy: StrEat: Maginhawa Food Park, RBy’s Steak and Shake, Antiteasis: Books and Brews, The Baker’s Table, Ate Fe’s Kitchen, Big B Burgers, Breakfast Bin, Cas Quesadilla, Crepeman, Friuli, MIXXX Vigan’s Best, Sancho Chuerreria Manila, IScreamist and many other famous sights to visit.

It was only natural that in the weekend of Quezon City’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations (the city celebrates its 75th Foundation Day during October 12), Maginhawa Street always contributes many of its finest food and restaurants.

Taiwan Excellence Philippines: The Best of Taiwanese Brands and Products

Taiwan Excellence brand partners showcased their products

Taiwan continuously reinforces its importance as the Philippines’ trading partner. According to 2015 Philippine Statistics Authority data, Taiwan is the 4th top import country (with 5.2 billion USD imports) and the 9th top export country (with 2.2 billion USD exports) in the world. With this, Taiwan Excellence campaign, which is organized by Bureau of Foreign Trade (BOFT) of Taiwan government and implemented by Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), is again rolling out for the third year in the Philippines to further strengthen trading ties between the two countries.

Taiwan Excellence, the symbol of superiority of products from Taiwan, will have more exciting and more comprehensive activities in 2016. Through experiential activities to be staged throughout the year, TAITRA aims to let Filipino consumers experience how they can enhance their lives and create a truly “Excellent Lifestyle.”

Over the years, Taiwan Excellence activities have brought Filipinos closer to Taiwanese products. These innovative and high quality products have seen greater acceptance in the market and have become an integral part of the Filipino lifestyle – from appliances that provide convenience in managing households, gadgets that complement hectic schedules, and equipment that makes committing to a healthy goal easier.

(From left) Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) Deputy Executive Director of Strategic Marketing Department Scott Yang, Taiwan Economic & Cultural Office (TECO) Ambassador of the Philippines Dr. Gary Song-Huann LIN, Manila Economic & Cultural Office (MECO) Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Amadeo Perez Jr., and celebrity guest Jasmine Curtis-Smith

For this year, Taiwan Excellence will introduce its latest product line-up, all of which capture Taiwan brands’ features that have gained global recognition for their distinct quality and sheer excellence. Some brands include ACER, ASUS, MSI and PX for Information and Communications Technology products; Tatung, Sakura, and Caesar for Household Goods; and Johnson, Pacific and KYMCO for Sports and Leisure products.

“In the past two years, we have witnessed the very strong demand among Filipinos for high quality Taiwan-made products to meet their lifestyle needs. Through the Taiwan Excellence campaign, we hope to bring high quality products that will help Filipinos upgrade their lifestyles. We hope Filipino consumers will be empowered to make educated decisions about their purchases and experience the benefits and superior quality of our products and brands,” said Scott Yang, Deputy Executive Director of TAITRA.

Among the activities slated for 2016 are Taiwan Excellence Experiencing Zones scheduled on June 3 to 5 in SM Megamall, July 8 to 10 in SM Mall of Asia, August 19 to 21 in TriNoma, and October 21 to 23 in Market! Market! Visit www.taiwanexcellence.ph for more details.

About Taiwan Excellence
The symbol of Taiwan Excellence honors Taiwan’s most innovative products that provide tremendous value to users worldwide. All products carrying this symbol have been selected for specific Taiwan Excellence Awards based on their excellence in design, quality, marketing, Taiwanese R&D and manufacturing. Initiated by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), R.O.C. in 1992, the symbol of Taiwan Excellence is recognized by 100 countries.

Organized by Bureau of Foreign Trade (BOFT), MOEA
The Bureau of Foreign Trade (BOFT) under the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), R.O.C. is responsible for implementing policies and regulations governing foreign trade and economic cooperation. Established in January 1969, the BOFT's role and position have been adjusted regularly to meet the needs of the ever changing international economic and trade environments. The BOFT has been guiding and working with the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) in numerous promotional trade projects and activities both internationally and domestically. Having worked closely with TAITRA for many decades, the BOFT continues to commission TAITRA for various critical government projects relating to business, trade and investment, while promoting Taiwan internationally.
 
Implemented by Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA)
Founded in 1970 to help promote foreign trade, the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) is the foremost non-profit, semi-governmental trade promotion organization in Taiwan. Jointly sponsored by the government, industry associations, and several commercial organizations, TAITRA assists Taiwanese businesses and manufacturers with reinforcing their international competitiveness and in coping with the challenges they face in foreign markets. TAITRA boasts a well-coordinated trade promotion and information network of over 1,200

Close-Up Forever Summer 2016: Five Dead at Music Festival: Close Up Toothpaste Philippines:

Those teen kids who went out to party at the Close Up Forever Summer Event paid a hefty sum for the tickets just to see some famous DJ and they ended up dead in the parking lot.

Alma Concepcion was at the Close Up Forever Summer Event chaperoning her son

So who is at fault here? The kids who took the party drugs or the kids unaware their drinks were laced? Was it heat stroke? Was it food poisoning from the food stalls? Pasay police are still investigating and yes, the organizers have a lot of explaining to do. 

These kids had a bright future ahead of them. Our heart goes out to their parents as well :(

Police reports identified the fatalities as Bianca Fontejon, 18; Eric Anthony Miller, 33, an American; Ariel Leal, 22; and Lance Garcia, 36. A fifth victim, Ken Migawa, 18, later died at the San Juan de Dios Hospital. 

I hope they don't just sweep this under the rug. What does incoming President Duterte say about the  matter? 

Cause of death has yet to be confirmed, but rumors abound that the five died possibly due to drug-laced drinks at the CLOSE-UP FOREVER SUMMER Party 2016.

 

 

At dahil nakikiramay ang Closeup, nakuha pa nilang ayusin ang branding nila, bilang paggunita sa mga biktima at pagluluksa.

Baron Geisler Lagot kay President Digong Duterte

Baron Geisler has made the headlines again, this time with a viral video of a supposedly beat down of a UP Film student. Some claimed the video is just 'staged' to make Baron Geisler the relevant tough guy again. Well, too bad Rodrigo Duterte just got elected President!

Khalil Verzosa, a University of the Philippines Visual Communication student posted the video of Baron Geisler getting physical with the film crew. He gets the camera guy in a head lock. Looks like Christian Bale has nothing on his meltdown! Method pa more koya!



Baron Geisler in total beastmode.

Pinoy Mother's Day Messages: Happy Mother's Day Philippines

Greet your Mama in the Philippines, Happy Mother's Day Pinoy style!



Happy Mother's Day Nay,
tagal ko na kayong hindi nakakausap,
Miss ko kayo ni Tatay. Ingat kayo lagi dyan,
pagaling po kayo, kumain lagi ng gulay
Mahal na Mahal ko po kayo


happy mothers day brod kay nanay...smile naman dyan!
more blessings and always healthy lang ang peg
always take care ka rin!


Araw-araw mo kaming
minamahal at inaalagaan.
Ngayong araw mo,
ito ang aming munting handog
para sa 'yo.
Happy Mother's Day po! - Mcdo



Happy birthday to my lovely wife.
I love you and hope you enjoyed the presents
Happy Mother's Day sweetheart!


Salamat sa pagpaparamdam sakin
kung ano ang pag-ibig na tunay at lubos!
Kaso wish ko mabawasan na kasungitan mo
para hindi ka tumanda ng maaga
Happy Mother's Day 'Nay


Happy mothers day sa lahat ng mga nanay,
mama, mommy, ina, inay, nana, ima
at sa mga soon to be mommy!


Teka Mother's Day na pala ngayon,
miss ko na po yung times na
sinesermonan nyo po ako nonstop
pag humhingi ako ng dagdag singil sa allowance
i love you mudrabels! Happy Mother's Day!


To my amazing mother, the best mom on earth!
Happy Mothers Day Ma! Saya mo talaga kasama
Stay Happy and continue to age gracefully


Happy Mother's Day to all the beautiful moms!
A mother's love is endless! Nothing In This World
Can Give You The Pure Love
What Mother Gives You! ‪


Nanay ko ay da best!
Always showered me with love and blessings.
Salamat s alahat! For being there for me
lalo na nung bata pa ako!


Memories is the best gift
you can give to someone you love.
'Nay we may not see each other everyday
but the memories you shared
will be remembered forever!


There's no sacrifice too big for a mother's love
Totoo yan dahil pinadama mo yan sa aming
magkakapatid ng lubos at tunay
Mahal na mahal ka namin nanay!


I'm sorry if I don't say thank you enough.
Hindi sapat ang thank you sa isang taong
willing ibigay ang buhay at lahat ng kanyang sarili
Thank you for everything. Happy Mothers Day Mommy!

Philippine Senatorial Candidates 2016 Election: A Guide on Platforms and Bills Passed

Sharing an informative list from Miss Erin Ko's FB page:

A List of SENATORIAL CANDIDATES for 2016
which includes all their PLATFORMS AND BILLS PASSED
- PARA SA MGA TAMAD MAGRESEARCH

A guide for the UNDECIDED, APOLITICAL, NEUTRAL or those who want to vote based on what the candidate stands for. This is a good starting point:

Senatoriables listed in alphabetical order from last name:

CANDIDATE #1 RAFAEL ALUNAN
Party: Bagumbayan
Main Issues: anti-corruption, anti-poverty
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- served in the cabinets of two presidents, Cory Aquino and Fidel Ramos, to head the Department of Tourism and the Department of Interior and Local Government, respectively.
- one of the leaders of the West Philippine Sea Coalition, which has led protest actions against China
- held the rank of Colonel in the Armed Forces and commanded two (2) Army Infantry Reserve Divisions.
- wants to amend the constitution to grow a balanced economy, reduce poverty and reverse the diaspora

CANDIDATE #2 INA AMBOLODTO
Party: LP
Main Issues: peace and order, especially in conflict-ridden areas in Mindanao
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- pro-Bangsamoro Law
- Vice Mayor of Northern Kabuntalan
- most senior Boardmember of Shariff Kabunsuan Province during the 2007 national and local elections
- elected Vice President for Mindanao of the Provincial Boardmembers' League of the Philippines.
- appointed Vice Governor and Acting Provincial Governor after the Maguindanao massacre in 2009

CANDIDATE #3 WALDEN BELLO
Party: Akbayan Citizens' Action Party
Main Issues: anti-injustice, anti-inequality, and anti-corruption
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- resigned his position in congress due to conflicts with President Benigno Aquino III that surrounded the Disbursement Acceleration Program and the Mamasapano incident, accused Aquino of "fraternizing"
- global activist, author, academic, and political analyst; world-renowned intellectual whose views on a wide range of topics like globalization, militarization, politics, and the economy often appear on local and international publications. He is the author of at least 14 books on these issues.
- pushed for the party's initiatives like agrarian reform, the Reproductive Health law, the Freedom of Information bill, bills to end discrimination of the LGBT community, land use, and measures to secure the welfare of workers and the urban poor.
- co-founded the Bangkok-based think tank Focus on the Global South, and was professor of sociology at the University of the Philippines. He became president of the Freedom from Debt Coalition, and chairman of the board of Greenpeace Southeast Asia.

CANDIDATE #4 NERI COLMENARES
Party: Bayan Muna partylist Representative (declared support for Poe/Escudero, endorsed by Erap)
Main Issues: Human Rights
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- pushing for Freedom of Information law, anti-dynasty law, and policies promoting nationalism.
- advocate for women's rights, pro-RH Bill
- anti-FDI / anti-federalism
- author of the 2K SSS Pension Hike bill

CANDIDATE #5 LEILA DE LIMA
Party: LP
Main Issues: Criminal Justice
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- Chair of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in May 2008
- Secretary of Justice
- Law professor specializing in Election Law, Business Organizations, Persons and Family Relations, Transportation Law, and Statutory Construction.

CANDIDATE #6 FRANKLIN DRILON
Party: LP
Main Issues: Continuation of Daang Matuwid
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- DOLE secretary, 1987-1990
- Department of Justice Secretary, (1990–1991; 1992–1995)
- current Senate President
- Assistant Majority Leader and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance
- worked firmly for the enactment of the Sin Tax Law that would impose higher taxes on the cigarettes and liquors
- championed major reform measures during the 15th Congress: the GOCC Governance Act of 2011, the law that synchronized the elections in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao with the May national elections
- force behind the approval of the P11.2-billion Jalaur River Multi-Purpose Project-Stage II.

CANDIDATE #7 SHERWIN "WIN" GATCHALIAN
Party: Partido Galing at Puso (Poe and Escudero)
Main Issues: Education and good governance
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- founded Task Force on Fraternities and Gangs Intervention and Prevention (TAFFGIP), which ended strings of violence caused by gang wars in the city in 2010.
- House Bill No. 4714, also named as the “Servando Act.” - ban all forms of hazing in fraternities, sororities and other organization; and make the schools liable when it comes to the groups operating within their jurisdiction
- KAPITBAHAYAN PARA SA KALIKASAN (KPK) PROGRAM: new sources of livelihood friendly to the environment
- taken part in on-going construction of Valenzuela-Obando-Meycauayan (VOM) flood project, which started in 2012

CANDIDATE #8 RICHARD "DICK" GORDON
Party: Bagumbayan
Main Issues: anti-corruption in government, improving education
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- former Mayor of Olongapo City during the 1980’s. During his term as Mayor, the city became a highly urbanized city and was converted from a “sin city” into a “model city.”
- chairman of the world-renowned Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority during the administration of Pres. Fidel Ramos
- secretary of Tourism under the administration of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
- National Tourism Policy Act of 2009 or RA 9593
- Republic Act No. 9369: Automated Elections System to obviate cheating and post election controversies and protests that hound Philippine elections.
- Republic Act No. 9499 - Gordon's Veterans Bill: Filipino veterans will now be able to receive any form of benefit from any foreign government without losing the benefits given to them by the Philippine government.
- passage of the Automated Elections System or RA 9369.
- Chairman and Governor, Phil. National Red Cross (1986-present)
- advocates for the modernization of education in the Philippines
- PUTANGINA IBOTO NYO NA SYA ANO BA

CANDIDATE #9 TG Guingona
Party: LP
Main issues: anti-corruption in government, reconstruction of conflict-affected areas and to expedite the socio-economic development in Mindanao.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- two terms in the House of Representatives of the Philippines as the Representative of the Second District of Bukidnon.
- RA 9500: The University of the Philippines Charter of 2008
- RA 9497: The Civil Aviation Authority Act of 2008
- RA 9745: The Anti-torture Act of 2009
- RA 9996: The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Act of 2010
- RA 9576: An act strengthening the financial capabilities of the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC)
- RA 10167: Anti-Money Laundering Act
- RA 10645: Mandatory PhilHealth Coverage for Senior Citizens (Co-Author)
- currently on Senate Committee on Accountability of Public Officers and Investigations (Blue Ribbon)
- expressed full support to the 2012 Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB), including the creation of the Transition Commission as a step forward towards political stability and sustainable economic development in Mindanao

CANDIDATE #10 Risa Hontiveros
Party: Akbayan Citizens’ Action Party/Team PNoy
Main issues: Women's rights, anti-poverty, ntroduction of Divorce to the Philippines, Anti-Political Dynasties bill, Passage of Universal Health Care
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- Actively campaigned for the passage of the Reproductive Health (RH) Bill in the 15th Congress.
- Secretary-General, Coalition of Peace
- earned a Nobel peace prize nomination for her work as chairwoman of the Government Panel’s Reciprocal Working Committee on Soci0-Economic Reforms in the Peace Talks with the National Democratic Fron from 1998-1999.
- Cheaper Medicines Law that lowers the cost of essential medicines by allowing parallel importation and compulsory licensing
- Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reforms (CARPER) Law that extends the old CARP Law as well as provides a program better suited to the needs of the farmers and the agrarian reform beneficiaries.
- Anti-Prostitution Bill that aims to look at prostitution as a symptom of inequitable and exploitative social structures and prostitutes
- Gender Balance Bill that aims to ensure women’s representation in all structures of governance
- Students' Rights and Welfare (STRAW) Bill that aims to promote and protect students' liberties at all levels and in both public and private school

CANDIDATE #11 Lorna Kapunan
Party: Aksyon party (of late former senator Raul Roco), supports Grace Poe and Francis Escudero.
Main Issues: empowerment of youth, education, environment
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- former legal counsel of Janet Napoles, the alleged mastermind behind the pork barrel scam. Some of her former celebrity clients include basketball star James Yap, controversial doctor Hayden Kho and actress Rhian Ramos
- against privatization of education
- Corporate Secretary of A. Soriano Corporation since 1998

CANDIDATE #12 Princess Jacel Kiram
Party: UNA (Binay)
Main Issues: peace and unification of Filipinos, education, pursue Sulu Sultanate's claim over Sabah
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- daughter of the late Sulu Sultan Jamalul Kiram III.
- Fil-Muslim against the Bangsamoro Law, arguing that it must be inclusive to all
- in favor of tax reform, jobs, ASEAN Integration, FOI bill, modernization of military, disaster-risk reduction
- pushes for free highschool and elementary education, including books
- proposes a bill that will teach Philippine Constitution and all Philippine laws, memos, and resolutions in school

CANDIDATE #13 Panfilo Lacson
Party: independent
Main Issues: improve public facilities, modernize country's defenses, anti-crime
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- head the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Task Force (PAOCTF) and to serve as Director-General of the Philippine National Police under Erap Estrada
- Republic Act No. 9160, as amended by Republic Act 9194, otherwise known as the Anti-Money Laundering Act
- Republic Act No. 9163, The National Service Training Program (NSTP) Act of 2001
- Republic Act No. 9166, An Act Increasing the Base Pay of the Members of the AFP
- Republic Act No. 9208, The Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003
- Republic Act No. 9416, Anti-Cheating Act of 2007
- Republic Act No. 9484, The Philippine Dental Act of 2007
- Republic Act No. 9485, Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007
- Republic Act No. 9165, otherwise known as the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (co-author)
- Republic Act No. 9189, otherwise known as the Absentee Voting Act (co-author)
- Republic Act No. 9287, otherwise known as the Anti-Jueteng and Illegal Numbers Game (co-author)
- Republic Act No. 9406, An Act Reorganizing the Public Attorney's Office (co-author)
- Sin Tax Reform Act (main author)
- Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery (PARR) with the mandate of unifying the efforts of government and other agencies involved in the rehabilitation and recovery efforts during Aquino until Feb 2015

CANDIDATE #14 Rey Langit
Party: UNA (Binay)
Main Issues: anti-poverty
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- chairman of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas-Metro Manila Chapter and is a member of the board of directors of the KBP-National.
- wants transparency and accountability in government, wants to establish a welfare fund for the families of Media men that are left destitute when the media person dies in the midst of performing his duties.

CANDIDATE #15 Mark Lapid
Party: LP / Koalisyon ng Daang Matuwid
Main Issues: tourism
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- son of action star Lito Lapid
- former Governor of Pampanga (2004-2007), Pampanga was considered one of the top ten most productive provinces during his tenure
- head of the Tourism Infrastructure Enterprise Zone Authority (Tieza)
- supports same-sex marriage

CANDIDATE #16 Edu Manzano
Party: Partido Galing at Puso (Poe and Esucdero); also affiliated with Miriam Santiago and Bongbong Marcos' party
Main Issues: anti- “excessive taxation”, pro-education
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- Vice Mayor of Makati City from 1998-2001
- first chairman of the Optical Media Board, a government agency tasked with combating optical media piracy from 2004 - 2009

CANDIDATE #17 Allan Montano
Party: UNA (Binay)
Main Issues: workers' interests
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- lawyer known for taking pro bono cases for free, volunteer labor arbiter
- wants to create a Security of Tenure (SOT) bill, which would have limited contractual labor to seasonal and non-core positions in a company.
- sits in tripartite dialogues and technical working groups responsible in crafting draft labor policies

CANDIDATE #18 Alma Moreno
Party: UNA (Binay)
Main Issues: women's rights, probably
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- actress
- more known for her awkward interview with Karen Davila than any concrete political platform to date

CANDIDATE #19 Isko Moreno
Party: PMP (Erap)
Main Issues: anti-poverty, pro-education
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- served three consecutive terms (nine years) as a councilor for Manila's first congressional district
- vice chairman of the Manila Historical and Heritage Commission
- current Vice Mayor of Manila

CANDIDATE #20 Getulio Napeñas
Party: UNA (Binay)
Main Issues: peace and order
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- retired police officer who served as commander of the Philippine National Police Special Action Force (SAF) from 2013 until 2015
- was blamed for Mamapasano incident by Aquino instead of Purisima, and sacked; accepted blame and retired
- wanted to provide justice for the 44 SAF commandos who were killed in January's botched Mamasapano anti-terror police operation.

CANDIDATE #21 Susan Ople
Party: Nacionalista Party
Main Issues: OFW rights, anti-poverty
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- former undersecretary with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the daughter of the late senator and longtime labor minister Blas Ople.
- wants modernization of OWWA, POEA, and the various Assistance-to-Nationals Units (ATNU) of embassies and consulates;
- wants passage of an anti-age discrimination at the workplace law to promote a level playing field and encourage a work environment that puts a premium on abilities rather than age;
- wants Unequivocal exemption by law of all OFWs from the payment of airport terminal fees and a complete accounting of non-refunded terminal fees paid by OFWs from February 1 to present;
- wants creation of a Victims' Assistance Program for Human Trafficking Survivors to enable them to "rebuild their lives, secure justice, and reintegrate successfully in their respective communities";
- wants SSS pension benefits hike, lower income taxes "especially for low-waged workers," and eliminate the Job-Order system in government.
- in favor of the creation of a "Department of OFWs" as well as a "separate Department on Maritime Affairs."

CANDIDATE #22 Manny Pacquiao
Party: UNA (Binay)
Main Issues: anti-poverty
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- congressman of the lone district of Sarangani
- wants to push for free public schools up to the college level and increased protection for Filipino workers overseas
- no laws passed during his tenure as Congressman; reported for work only 4 days in 2014
- renowned Filipino boxer

CANDIDATE #23 Cresente Paez
Party: LP
Main Issues: improvement on agricultural sector
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- COOP NATCCO Party List representative for 3 terms
- wants fertilizer subsidies, removal of irrigation fees, strengthen cooperatives

CANDIDATE #24 Samuel Pagdilao
Party: independent
Main Issues: health, energy, renewable resources
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- Director General of the Philippine National Police (PNP) (34 years stint as police officer)
- served in the House of Representatives from 2013 to 2016
- Chief of Police of the Caloocan City Police Station from 1997 to 2001.
- representative of the Republic of the Philippines to the International Coalition Planning Center for Operation Iraqi Freedom in US Central Command Headquarters (April to November 2003)
- Pagdilao was the Spokesman and Chief of the Public Information Office of the PNP (2006-2007)
- former Chief of Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG)

CANDIDATE #25 Francis Pangilinan
Party: LP
Main Issues: improve agricultural sector, increase jobs
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- married to actress and television personality Sharon Cuneta
- first elected as Senate Majority Leader in 2004
- the Judicial Executive Legislative Advisory and Consultative Council (JELAC) was the brainchild of Kiko Pangilinan, first proposed on the July 16–17, 2007 Manila Hotel Summit on Extrajudicial killings and forced disappearances in the Philippines
- ppointed as Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization - a Cabinet-level position under the Office of the President of the Philippines - by President Aquino III until Sept 2015

CANDIDATE #26 Jericho Petilla
Party: LP
Main Issues: health, energy and providing electricity
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- governor of Leyte from 2004 - 2012
- supported The Philippine Economic Zone Authority in approving the application of the Province of Leyte to convert the 6.9 hectares lot at Barangay Pawing, Palo, Leyte, where the developed and ready for operation Leyte Academic Center is located, into the Leyte Information Communication Technology Park.
- former Secretary of the Department of Energy (DOE) of the Philippines, resigned

CANDIDATE #27 Ralph Recto
Party: LP
Main Issues:
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- married to Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto
- member of the House of Representatives representing the 4th District of Batangas from 1992 to 2001.
- Senator from 2001 to 2007, 2010 onwards
- appointed to head the National Economic and Development Authority, but resigned from his position in August 2009 in preparation to run for senator in the 2010 election
- committee chair for the Senate Ways and Means Committee, came under fire for diluting Sin Tax Bill, resigned
- wrote the EVAT tax bill
- RA 10653 - Increasing Tax Exemption Cap for 13th Month Pay and Bonuses (February 12, 2015)
- RA 10645 - Philhealth Coverage for All Senior Citizens (November 5, 2014)
- RA 10638 - Philippine National Railways Charter Extension (June 16, 2014)
- RA 10606 - Amendments to the National Health Insurance Act (June 19, 2013)
- RA 10533 - Enhancing the Philippine Basic Education System (K to 12 Program) (May 15, 2013)
- RA 10349 - Revised AFP Modernization Program (December 11, 2012)
- RA 10157 - Kindergarten Education Act (January 20, 2012)
- RA 9480 - General Tax Amnesty (May 24, 2007)
- RA 9400 - Amendments to BCDA (March 20, 2007)
- RA 9301 - Philippine Overseas Shipping Act (July 27, 2004)
- RA 9295 - Domestic Shipping Act (May 3, 2004)
- RA 9294 - Restoring the Tax Exemption of Offshore Banking Units (OBUs) and Foreign Currency Deposit Units (FCDUs) (April 28, 2004)
- RA 9178 - Barangay Micro Business Enterprises Act of 2002 (November 13, 2002)

CANDIDATE #28 Martin Romualdez
Party: UNA (Binay)
Main Issues: education, invest in tech to resolve traffic
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- cousin of Tacloban Mayor Alfred Romualdez
- plans to renew fight for SSS pension hike
- wants more disaster-preparedness, pointing out Yolanda victims as his reasons
- President of the Philippine Constitution Association,
- incumbent Representative of the 1st District of Leyte
- Chairman of the Board for Equitable PCI Bank, as well as Director for several companies, among them Philippine Commercial International Bank, Equitable Card Network, EBC Investments, Inc., Equitable Savings Bank, PCI Leasing Corporation, and PCI Capital Corporation

CANDIDATE #29 Roman Romulo
Party: independent (supports Poe)
Main Issues: create a strong middle class by improving education and lowering tax rates
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- son of former Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo and grand-nephew of Filipino statesman, Pulitzer Prize winner and first and only Filipino President of the United Nations General Assembly Carlos P. Romulo
- supports FOI bill
- Chairman of the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education
- authored Iskolar ng Bayan Law: a scholarship program open to all public high school students belonging to the top ten (10) of the graduating class
- promoting UNIFAST: a Student Financial Assistance Programs act
- authored over 150 bills

CANDIDATE #30 Dionisio Santiago
Party: independent (?)
Main Issues: anti-crime
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- the first chief of the Central Command based in Cebu City
- former chief of the Army’s Special Operations Command (Socom) and former concurrent head of the AFP’s Task Force Libra
- Former Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency chief
- The OESPA alleged that Santiago pocketed P8 million in funds intended for the repair and renovation of a swimming pool at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City during his term of office; military recommended filing graft charges in 2005.

CANDIDATE #31 Tito Sotto
Party: NPC (National People's Coalition)
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- confirmed plagiarist, as attested by daughter of late US President Robert Kennedy
- anti-RH bill
- acting chairman of the Dangerous Drugs Board on 4 July 2008
- vice mayor of Quezon City from 1988 to 1992
- became acting Minority Floor Leader after his political mentor Enrile is arrested over the pork barrel scam
- inserted provision on libel under the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 or Anti-Cybercrime Law, making cyber- libel a jailable offense

CANDIDATE #32 Francis Tolentino
Party: People's reform party (Miriam Santiago), also supports Duterte
Main Issues: empowerment of local government units, disaster preparedness, and protection of women and children
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) from 2010 to 2015
- appointed to the post of OIC Mayor of Tagaytay from 1986 to 1987 by former President Corazon Aquino, following the People Power Revolution. He ran unopposed in the 1995 elections as Mayor of Tagaytay and served for nine years from January 1995 to 2004
- relaunched the Pasig River Ferry System last April 2014
- chair of the annual Metro Manila Film Festival

CANDIDATE #33 Joel Villanueva
Party: People's reform party (Miriam Santiago), LP
Main Issues: employment and education
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- Director General of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) from 2010-2015
- three-term congressman from 2001-2010
- “Shoot for your Dream Program” which involves organizing exhibition games featuring Philippine Basketball Association Legends team dubbed as "Team Trabaho" as an awareness campaign to counter misconceptions that technical vocation are low-paying courses

CANDIDATE #34 Juan Miguel Zubiri
Party: independent
Main Issues: clean energy
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- representative representing the third district of Bukidnon for three consecutive terms
- announced his resignation from the Senate on August 3, 2011, following allegations of poll fraud during the Senate elections of 2007
- worked for the passage of RA 9513 or the Renewable Energy Act of 2008
- worked for passage of RA 9367 or the Biofuels Act of 2006.
- Senate of the Philippines Majority Leader, the youngest to held the the position since the First Congress.
- RA10068 – Organic Agriculture Act of 2010;
- RA 9147 – Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act;
- RA 10121 – Philippine Disaster Risk Management Act;
- RA 9165 – Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002;
- RA 9679 – the Home Development Mutual Fund Law of 2009 (Pag-IBIG Fund);
- RA 9997 – the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos Act of 2009

Some candidates don't have any platforms or issues that they talk about, at least on the internet, so some platforms will be rather bare. Some bills will also have multiple authors.

Vote wisely.

Suntukan sa Ace Hardware, Saksakan sa Bilibid

Sorry Ace Hardware this could have been BIG! The biggest, outrageous free publicity of the year courtesy of social media. They should have just jumped on the bandwagon and organized a promo boxing event. Instead people still plan to go to the Suntukan sa Ace Hardware and hold a riot! lol

"We appreciate the excitement created by the April 15 'Suntukan sa Ace Hardware' Facebook. However, we do not encourage this type of digital publicity. No such event was organized by ACE Hardware in SM City Lucena or any of our branches."


If you're disappointed by the disavowed Suntukan sa Ace Hardware, there's always the Saksakan sa Bilibid event. BTW, never talk about the fight club guys!

Pregnant Woman Abandoned with her Toddler at Marikina River Park During Holy Week

A pregnant woman was abandoned by relatives with her 1 year-old son at the Marikina River Park. They took her cellphone and her only cash around P300. She has been at the park since Black Saturday with the toddler.


Her name is Allain Diladia, 20 years old from Masbate. Her husband works as a dishwasher in Angeles City, Pampanga but she has no way of contacting her since the relatives took away her cellphone. She is 9 months pregnant and can give birth anytime soon.

A good Samaritan by the name of Jaypee Chua posted her photo on FB, hoping to get help for the poor woman and her child. Please visit the FB page, hope someone can reach out and send help.

Her relatives are just plain cruel, if they don't want her around this isn't a good way to send her off on her own. They basically treated her like a cat that they could just throw away. I can't imagine the horrible situation she's in, left in a city park on Holy Week, with no money or phone, pregnant and with a toddler in tow :(

As of today, the team of Mr. Chua (based on the FB post) are doing the best they can for her.

James Cubelo: Bukas Pinto LRT Ride - Happy Students ng Technological University of the Philippines

Dahil Summer nagtitipid na ang Management ng LRT, may bago itong open door policy. Kahit siksikan at mainit, bukas naman ang LRT doors para presko at mahangin! Ride at your own risk nga lang! 




March 10, 2016 around 6 pm. Sumakay kami ng friend ko sa LRT1 from Central Station. Napansin namin na hindi nag-close ang door pero tumatakbo na, nagulat nalang kami nung sinabi ni manong guard na kumapit nalang kami ng mabuti, ano to! Star City lang ang peg, ganun! At first di ko naisipang i-video kasi sobrang kabado talaga ako! Pero, in fairness ahh! nag-enjoy kami! i know na sobrang delikado talaga sya, pero no choice na kami at that moment kasi nakaandar na sya ng matulin! best part is, sumakay kami ng puno na ang tren, pero nung nalaman na bukas ang door habang tumatakbo, biglang lumuwag nalang,,, haha. takot nalang namin lahat na mahulog noh, knowing na GRADUATING KAMI! ganun! Well, thanks God, buhay pa kami now at safe!!! HUY! KAYONG MGA STAFF SA LRT1, UMAYOS-AYOS KAYO HAH! p.s. alam na nilang di nagsasara ang door, pero di nagtapos sa U.N. station ang lahat dahil may part 2 pa ang ride, upload ko nalang later. May foreigners akong kasama that time 


 

Bet ko itong si Koya James Cubelo, isang student sa Technological University of the Philippines, contagious ang laughter ni kuya at pwedeng-pwede na siya mag-stint as travel show host!

Globe Spotify Premium 3 Months for P9.00 Promo: PLAN 1099 2MBPS W/ SPOTIFY - Mag Ingat sa Pag Click ng Banner Ad sa Facebook

 This ad appeared on my FB feed - Globe Spotify Premium 3 Months for P9.00 Promo


I clicked the banner ad, curious at the promo, but I did NOT sign up my FB account or email. Lo and behold the next day! I have a Globe account number and a billing date.

Wait!? What can they actually do this? Subscribe you without you agreeing to anything?

My fear is if I ignore this email, the bill under my email would keep piling up until it gets to a hefty sum, then I'm served up with some legal letter for a service I don't plan to use or even interested in subscribing to. In the end, I'll be paying for a huge bill for a service I did not use and for a disconnection fee pa if this is a contract for 24 months?

Anyone else received such an email? Were you billed the first month? Their hotline is always busy.

I would avail of this Spotify service if the auto-billing tactics weren't so underhanded :(


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Welcome to a world of entertainment at home and on demand – Tattoo Home Broadband!

We are grateful that you have welcomed us into your home to provide you fiber-fast broadband, reliable landline voice service, and exclusive entertainment packs. Below are your subscription details for your reference:

Plan: PLAN 1099 2MBPS W/ SPOTIFY

Contract period: 24
Monthly Recurring Fee (MRF): 1099
Bill cut-off date: Every 5 of the Month

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Lesson learned: Do not click banner ads using your personal FB account tied up to a personal email.