While El Niño is drawing closer to its end, it may still have an effect in several parts of the country this month. Dry condition may affect the province of Marinduque ,while dry spells are expected in Benguet, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino, Aurora, Batangas, Laguna, Oriental Mindoro, Romblon, Albay, Camarines Sur, Sorsogon, Eastern Samar, Leyte, Northern Samar, Western Samar, Southern Leyte and Davao Oriental.
Meanwhile, droughts continue to threaten Abra, Ifugao, Kalinga Apayao, Mountain Province, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Occidental Mindoro, Palawan and Masbate.
In Visayas, droughts are likely to be experienced in Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Bohol, Cebu, Siquijor and Biliran. Affected areas in Mindanao include Zamboanga Sibugay, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Davao del Sur, South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sarangani, Surigao del Norte, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.
El Niño is now on its final stage, and is more likely to return to neutral condition by the end of July. While this may bring good news to our farmers highly affected by extreme drought, meteorological agencies warn the public about the impending occurrence of the La Niña.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) defines La Niña as a phenomenon characterized by the unusually low sea surface temperatures or cooling of the ocean in the Equatorial Pacific. NOAA added that a La Niña episode does not always follow an El Niño, but it may happen especially if the latter is a strong one.
The chief of PAGASA-Climate Monitoring and Prediction Section (CLIMPS), Mr. Anthony Lucero, said La Niña episode may occur on October to December 2016. As of now, there is a 50% chance that it will develop in the coming months.
According to PAGASA Weather Forecaster Buddy Javier, the La Niña’s effects in the Philippines may include the following:
1. Moderate to strong monsoon activity
The southwest monsoon or habagat is expected to affect the country during the rainy season, which usually sets in by the end of May to early June. If La Niña occurs, the activity of habagat may intensify, bringing more rains in the country.
2. Moderate to strong tropical cyclone activity
La Niña may also influence the intensity and impacts of tropical cyclones or bagyo that will enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) in the second half of 2016.
3. Above-normal rainfall / wetter weather condition
The opposite of El Niño, La Niña means more rains. More rains may trigger more flooding and landslides. After months of extremely dry days, we must now prepare for extremely wet days.
4. Near to below-normal air temperatures
By the time La Niña fully develops, the tag-init season may have already ended. Temperatures may return to normal or may be below average.
PAGASA will continuously monitor the weather while advisories will be immediately issued if needed. The public is advised to monitor updates.
Election day is just around the corner! To help you enjoy hassle-free voting, here are a few reminders:
What to bring?
• Your list of candidates. According to the Education and Information Department of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), voters may bring their “kodigo” or list of candidates they are planning to vote for. This saves time, and saves you from possible forgetfulness once you’re faced with your ballot.
• Voter’s ID/ valid ID/ registration stub. This proves your identity as a registered voter.
• Water. Drinking water keeps you hydrated amidst the heat, and makes you more focused in choosing the right candidate. Better bring your own reusable tumbler so you can save the environment!
• Small towel. Because of the heat, a small towel comes in handy in wiping off sweat. Wipe your hands dry before receiving your ballot because in order for the VCM (Vote Counting Machine) to work properly, ballots should be dry.
• Fan. Cool down with a manual fan in case the electric ones do not suffice.
What NOT to bring?
• Sample ballots. Election precinct sample ballots may be considered as campaign materials, which are prohibited on election day.
• Voting receipt. Do not keep the voting receipt. Drop it into the Voter’s Receipt Receptacle located beside the VCM before leaving the polling place.
• Ballpens. Voting precincts will provide marking pens. Leave them in the precinct for other voters.
The COMELEC also reminds everyone that taking photos of the ballots, voting receipts and the screen of the VCM is prohibited. Every vote counts; be a responsible voter!
Annually, on the second Sunday of May, countries across the world honor mothers.
As you go about celebrating this special day, you and your mom can enjoy generally fair weather in the country.
According to PAGASA Weather Forecaster Meno Mendoza, the Ridge of High Pressure continues to dominate Northern and Central Luzon, while Easterlies prevail over the eastern section of Southern Luzon, as well as Visayas and Mindanao.
Ridge is an extension of a weather system associated with good weather conditions. High Pressure Area refers to the planet’s surface with a greater atmospheric region compared to its surrounding environment. It is also an anti-cyclone and causes warm and fair weather. On the other hand, Easterlies refer to warm and humid air coming from the Pacific Ocean, and can cause isolated rain showers or thunderstorms.
This Sunday, partly cloudy to cloudy skies and warm weather will prevail in Metro Manila and the rest of the country. However, there is still a chance of isolated rains in the latter part of the day when clouds precipitate after accumulating enough water during the warm days.
So, if you’re planning to take your mom to the park, mall, spa or movie house, make sure to hydrate properly. Also bring umbrellas in case it rains.
With Mother’s Day just around the corner, why not express your love for your mom at a lower environmental price?
We’ve listed down eight eco-friendly shops where your purchase can both protect Mother Nature and your own mom from toxins found in the usual store-bought items.
1) THE BODY SHOP
The store was founded in 1976 when entrepreneur Dame Anita Roddick started selling around 25 hand-mixed naturally inspired products in in Brighton, England. To date, the company claims that their products are made with the finest raw ingredients that prioritize the health of people, animals and the planet.
(photo source: mallcribs.com)
YOUR MOM WILL LOVE:
Color Crush Nail Colors (Php 350) – It’s happiness literally right at your mom’s fingertips!
Color Crush Nail Colors comes in 18 different nature-inspired shades, such as cupid pink, apricot kiss and minty amour. These bottles of colorful nail polish contain marula oil instead of diphenyl phosphate commonly found in nail polish. Diphenyl phosphate, which makes products more flexible and less brittle, is found to cause reproductive and development disorders based on animal studies. Meanwhile, marula oil comes from the ripened fruit of a tree native to many parts of South Africa.
(photo source: thebodyshop.com.ph)
LOCAL BRANCHES: They have 59 stores all over the country located in Baguio City, Pampanga, Bulacan, Metro Manila, Rizal, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Iloilo, Cebu, Batangas, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Bacolod and Cebu.
CONTACT: Customer.Care@thebodyshop.com.ph
http://thebodyshop.com.ph.
2) ECHOSTORE
ECHO stands for Environment, Community, Hope, and Organization. Their stores aim to gather local Filipino products that represent the company’s ideals of health, fair trade, and care for the environment. Each product highlights and supports our cultural traditions, the artisan skills of our craftsmen, and the products of our farmers.
(photo from: echostore.ph)
YOUR MOM WILL LOVE:
Health Ts (Php 699) – If your mom loves a soothing cup of tea, then ECHOstore’s Honest Herbs are for her! Choose from the four variants: malunggay and turmeric, lemongrass and pandan, banaba and guyabano, and lagundi and guyabano.
(photo from: shop.echostore.ph)
Natural Laundry Granules (Php 195) – These are ultra-concentrated natural laundry granules that promise to effectively clean clothes. Unlike regular detergents that contaminate water sources such as rivers and oceans, this product is free from synthetic fragrances and is also biodegradable.
(photo from: echostore.ph)
LOCAL BRANCHES: The ECHOstore has eight branches located in Makati, Taguig, Mandaluyong, Quezon City, Cebu, Antipolo and Iloilo.
CONTACT: (+632) 901.3485
echostoresalcedo@gmail.com
3) HUMAN NATURE
This local brand aims to be world-class while using local ingredients for its products. Human Nature is proud to be pro-Philippines, pro-poor and pro-environment.
(photo from: inquirer.net)
YOUR MOM WILL LOVE:
Lipstick Dou (Php 650) – Time to let your mom’s beauty shine with this luxurious fusion of cocoa butter, sunflower seed oil, passion fruit seed oil and natural vitamin E, which are all skin-friendly ingredients. Many do not know that ordinary lipsticks contain lead and toxic metal elements to create pigments. In 2007, the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics of America conducted a study that detected lead in 66% of 33 lipstick brands. Medical experts say that there is no safe level of lead in the blood, and prolonged accumulative exposure to it can cause mental impairment. In the environment, lead deposits can prevent normal biochemical processes.
(photo from: humannature.com)
LOCAL BRANCHES: Human Nature has stores in Metro Manila, Rizal, Baguio, Dagupan, Cavite, Muntinlupa, Cabanatuan, Batangas, Bulacan, Olongapo, Pampanga, Laguna, Butuan, Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Bohol, Cebu and Iligan.
CONTACT: (02) 224-2223, 0917-596-5904
humanheartnature.com
4) HEALTHY OPTIONS
This company envisions a healthier world where people can enjoy longer, richer, and more fulfilling lives by taking control of their health. Their core values involve health, people, innovation, sustainability, local community and wealth.
(photo from: healthyoptions.com.ph)
YOUR MOM WILL LOVE:
Organic Juices (Php 299-800) – Lakewood Basics Organic Juices are as healthful as they are pure. Give your mom a quick boost in nutrition with any of its flavorful blends. Unlike juices from inorganically-grown fruits and plants, organic juices contribute to better health because these don’t use synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
(photo from: Healthy Options Philippines Facebook)
LOCAL BRANCHES: You can find Healthy Options in Makati, Mandaluyong, Manila, Muntinlupa, Pampanga, Pasay, Quezon City, Laguna, Taguig, Cagayan de Oro, Davao City and Cebu.
CONTACT: (02) 729-6105, (02) 920-9267
healthyoptions.com.ph
5) KIEHL’S
Originally founded in New York 160 years ago, the company boasts of its naturally-derived ingredients.
(photo from: lushangel.com)
YOUR MOM WILL LOVE:
Super Multi-Corrective Cream SPF 30 (Php 3,650 for 50 ml) – This multi-targeted and anti-aging moisturizer that lifts, smoothens, sculpts, moisturizes and retexturizes skin also protects your mom from UV rays. It doesn’t contain paraben, a preservative used in cosmetic products, making it safe for sensitive skin. According to Costmeticsinfo.org forms of parabens interfere with the functioning of the endocrine system, specifically glandular activity and hormone production.
(photo from: kiehls.com)
LOCAL BRANCHES: Makati, Pasig, Pasay and Quezon City
CONTACT: (02) 823-2425, (02) 728-9561
costumer.care@ph.loreal.com
6) LEYENDE
Since 2008, Leyende has been producing handmade, natural, and organic facial, bath and body products. Following eco-friendly and artisanal principles, Leyende is dedicated to producing sulphate-free, natural and organic products in the Philippines.
(photo from: Leyende Facebook page)
YOUR MOM WILL LOVE:
Rapunsilk Pearl Shampoo (Php 350) – This is a moisturizing shampoo with pearl essence and organic macadamia nut oil. It has ilang-ilang extract that helps stimulate follicles. Leyende guarantees products that are free from sulphate that allows soaps, shampoos and body washes to separate dirt and oil from human skin or hair. However, sulphate can threaten our water sources, since it cannot be effectively removed using conventional water treatment processes.
(photo from:leyende.com.ph)
LOCAL BRANCHES: Leyende participates in bazaars but is more known for its online shop and cash-on-delivery feature.
CONTACT: 908-4555
leyende.com
info@leyende.com
7) MESSY BESSY
Established in 2007, Messy Bessy is committed to “clean your homes without harming your health and polluting the planet.”
(photo source: messybessy.com)
YOUR MOM WILL LOVE:
Yoga Love Healing Cream (Php 350) – Perfect for your physically active mom, this chamomile-rich cream provides temporary relief from aching muscles or joints. Its cooling effect matched with soothing chamomile oil can also open and relax the senses during a massage.
(photo source: messybessy.com)
LOCAL BRANCHES: Messy Bessy has kiosks in Makati, Taguig, Quezon City and Manila.
CONTACT: (632) 502-7176, 0917-5607-871
messybessyinfo@gmail.com
messybessy.com
8) MILEA
Milea’s products do not contain parabens, mineral oils, paraffin and other synthetic chemicals. While building relations with small farmers, bee growers and other local manufacturers, Milea hopes to see the Philippines as one of the major producers of world-class care products using local ingredients.
(photo source: Milea Facebook page)
YOUR MOM WILL LOVE:
Coco Sugar (Php 195 ) – For the sweet-toothed mom, coconut sugar offers more vitamins and minerals compared to white table sugar. It contains trace amounts of Vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, calcium, zinc, iron and copper. It has also a low-glycemic impact and less fructose.
(photo source: milea.com.ph)
LOCAL BRANCHES: Milea can be found at the Herbal Garden in Quezon Memorial Circle.
You can view its bazaar schedules on milea.ph/calendar or order online.
CONTACT: (02) 806-1725 / 708-0590 / 0917-8888-439
milea.ph@gmail.com
Asthma is a common chronic disease among children. According to the World
Health Organization (WHO), 235 million people across the globe suffer from it.
By 2025, WHO projected 100 million people to suffer from the said disease.
Extremes of both high and low temperatures can trigger asthma. And since we
are experiencing above-normal high temperatures these days especially with the
effect of the El Niño, asthma attacks are on the rise.
But the good news, according to PAGASA Weather Forecaster Robert Badrina, is
that the El Niño will slightly subside in the coming weeks. In fact, we are now
transitioning into a neutral condition starting this month until July.
Knowing the signs and symptoms of asthma can prevent the attacks from
becoming severe.
Because asthma is a chronic breathing disorder, what we inhale can trigger
attacks. Here are some things to watch out for:
indoor allergens (house dust , carpets and stuffed furniture, pollution
and pet dander)
outdoor allergens (such as pollens and moulds);
tobacco smoke
chemical irritants
In case of an asthma attack, take only medication your doctor prescribed. If
you’re already experiencing a moderate or severe attack, better go to the
nearest hospital or clinic in your area. According to Dr. Reynaldo Salinel Jr.,
there are ways to prevent asthma attacks.
Stay away from the triggers.
Avoid too much stress and fatigue.
During hot days, take a shower twice or thrice a day.
Source(s): www.who.int
www.doh.gov.ph
We’ve just entered the last month of summer vacation! For some, this is the perfect time to indulge in their “huling hirit sa tag-init” fashion, selfies, playlist and memories. So, wherever you plan to spend the rest of your vacation, make sure to enjoy every moment with your family and friends.
In the midst of the Hot and Dry Season, several areas are recently experiencing rains. Weather-wise, you probably have few questions in mind. Fret not; we’ve already prepared the answers!
Are we expecting a “bagyo” this month?
According to PAGASA, different weather systems normally affect the country during this month. These include the Easterlies, Ridge of High Pressure Area (HPA), Tail End of a Cold Front, Intertropical Convergence Zone, Low Pressure Area (LPA) and Tropical Cyclone.
Despite the ongoing tag-init, the weather bureau is not dismissing the possibility of a tropical cyclone to enter or develop within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) this May. An average of 0 to 1 tropical cyclone is expected with its two possible scenarios: 1) a chance of hitting the landmass or 2) re-curving away from the country, depending on the effect of the HPA.
According to PAGASA Weather Forecaster Robert Badrina, historical records in the past 70 years show that tropical cyclones which entered the PAR during May were under Typhoon category. Hence, stronger typhoons usually cross our boundary during this month. The most recent one, Typhoon “Dodong”, entered the PAR on the second week of May last year.
How long will tag-init last?
Hot days are not over yet! PAGASA says tag-init normally lasts until the end of May. Air temperatures and heat indices will continue to soar as the Easterlies and Ridge of HPA prevail within the boundary.
Easterlies are warm and humid winds coming from the Pacific Ocean. This weather system is the main reason why we feel the sweltering heat.
In fact, the highest temperatures in Philippine history were recorded during the month of May.
After a scorching day, why do we experience thunderstorms?
May is considered as “thunderstorm month” because this is the time of the year wherein thunderstorms develop more frequently. As temperatures rise, water cycle also speeds up and becomes more active. This triggers the formation of cumulonimbus clouds, also known as thunderstorm clouds, which bring moderate to heavy rains, gusty winds, along with thunder and lightning.
Expect more thunderstorms in the coming days as we approach the transition period before the rainy season.
How’s El Niño?
PAGASA explains that the El Niño is already in its decaying stage. It will continue to weaken further this May until July, where it is expected to return to its neutral condition.
Though some areas will receive an improved amount of rainfall, several areas should still prepare for the last wave of El Niño. Dry conditions, dry spells and droughts could still affect the country in the next few weeks.
Climate change has become a major concern, not only in the Philippines, but all over the globe. Through the past decades, it has claimed thousands of lives, polluted many cities, destroyed natural resources, caused economic drop, and even prompted conflicts. There is no doubt; this concern should be a priority.
We only have few more days before we cast our votes for the National Election. By now, some of you may already have presidential bets; but for those who are still undecided, take time to read this and ask yourself: “Am I voting for the right person?”
Top of the list
Each candidate has his or her own plan of action. As voters, we should also consider the presidentiables’ agenda for climate change and disaster preparedness. Why? Here are the main reasons:
1. Our country belongs to the V20.
The top 20 countries, which are most vulnerable to climate change impacts, also referred to as the “V20”, include Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Maldives, Tanzania, Bangladesh, Ghana, Nepal, East Timor, Barbados, Kenya, Tuvalu, Bhutan, Kiribati, Rwanda, Vanuatu, Costa Rica, Madagascar, Saint Lucia, Vietnam and yes, the Philippines.
These are low and middle-income, small and developing countries that usually experience the adverse effects of climate change, such as extreme drought and destructive typhoons.
2. We have a commitment.
In line with the celebration of Earth Day (April 22, 2016), the Philippines signed the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Ramon Paje represented the country in the covenant signing held in New York.
This marked our commitment to support the United Nations and other countries in fighting climate change by limiting the warming of the earth below 1.5 degrees Celsius. In a press release of the Climate Change Commission (CCC), it stated that the Philippines pledged a 70% emission reduction by 2030.
3. Philippines is renewable-rich.
During his visit to our country last March, Former US Vice President and Founder of Climate Reality Project, Al Gore, highlighted that the Philippines is rich in renewable energy, which is naturally regenerated or replenished over a short period of time. Some are derived directly from the sun like thermal or photochemical energy.
Other forms of renewable energy are wind, hydropower, geothermal and tidal.
Using renewable energy will help in combating the impacts of climate change because these do not produce greenhouse gases unlike fossil fuels.
Meanwhile, Oxfam has mentioned in one of their studies that the Philippines is the world’s second largest producer of geothermal power and has the largest potential for wind power in South-East Asia.
With these, our president-to-be should also know how to maximize our natural energy sources. Not only could this help reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, it could also create more jobs.
4. Earthquakes can hit us anytime.
Though volcanic activities and ground shaking are not directly associated to climate change, part of being a “green” candidate is being able to create stronger disaster preparedness plans. Aside from an average of 19 to 20 tropical cyclones each year, our country also needs to be prepared for earthquakes.
Unlike tropical cyclones, we cannot forecast when and where an earthquake will occur. It can strike any location, at any time. Being one of the countries situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, the Philippines is highly prone to strong quakes.
We will never forget the magnitude 7.2 earthquake that shook Central Visayas on October 2013. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) already warned that an earthquake with the same magnitude, now dubbed as “The Big One”, is possible in Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
A Quick Look at the Presidentiables’ Agenda
Five candidates are vying to be next President of the Republic of the Philippines. What are their views on climate action and disaster preparedness?
Grace Poe
• Establish a separate, full-time, cabinet-level disaster resilience and emergency management agency, which will serve as the focal agency for integrated disaster resilience, climate change adaptation and mitigation and emergency management.
• Provide technical assistance and share good practices in order to capacitate LGUs to integrate climate change and disaster risk reduction management plans into their respective local development plans.
• Make full use of the People’s Survival Fund and establish transparency and accountability mechanisms in the selection and monitoring of projects.
• Accelerate the exploration, development, and promotion of renewable energy sources in order to reduce harmful emissions.
• Support the modernization of disaster mitigation agencies to improve their forecast and monitoring capabilities following the passage of the PAGASA Modernization Bill.
• Clarify and provide guidelines on the roles of local government units and national government during disasters to avoid confusion and overlapping of responsibilities.
Miriam Defensor-Santiago
• Invest in productivity-enhancing infrastructure to boost agriculture.
• Invest in irrigation and water-impounding facilities in order to allow more planting cycles, and to minimize the impact of El Niño and La Niña.
• Finance programs that would expand the use of new seed varieties, and modern technology in order to increase farm yield.
• Invest in research and technology.
• Lead the creation of an independent disaster risk reduction and management agency to enhance the capacity of government and communities to prevent, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from the impact of disasters.
• Invest in community-based disaster preparedness programs.
• Implement student-led disaster preparedness education in schools.
• Create citizen-led hazard mapping and risk reduction.
• Separate auditing of international aid.
• Amend EPIRA law.
• Review and reconsider the privatization of the energy industry under the EPIRA and see if it contradicts constitutional provisions on ownership of natural resources and Philippine obligations under the international law of human rights.
• Fast-track and wholeheartedly implement renewable energy policies.
Mar Roxas
• Support environmental protection.
• Reduce greenhouse gases to mitigate climate change.
• Explore natural gas and diversify country’s energy mix.
• Harness available energy sources in strict compliance with the highest standards of safety for communities and the environment to fuel the development of important sectors such as manufacturing, which can generate stable, reliable and long-term sources of income for Filipinos.
• Support EPIRA law.
Jejomar Binay
• Raise people’s awareness and understanding on climate change.
• Pass the Sustainable Forest Management Act into law.
• Formulate policies/programs that would strengthen the national government and the resilience of local government units (LGUs) to address issues on climate change.
• Strengthen or reform the Building Code for disaster-resilient infrastructures.
• In schools, disaster mitigation and preparedness must be included in the educational curriculum.
• Secure financing schemes for climate change projects.
• Ensure the implementation of the Flood Management Master Plan for Metro Manila and surrounding areas.
Rody Duterte
• Amend Philippine environmental policy to institutionalize climate change adaptation measures, apart from the climate change law.
• Strictly implement environmental and land use laws. Food crop areas should be maintained.
• Develop a climate adaptation fund per region to enable adaptation in agriculture and food production, which are vulnerable to climate change.
• Implement climate-smart technologies, such as rainwater impoundment and collection regulations.
• Pursue a policy that will prevent the Philippines from being a significant contributor to greenhouse gases even as we industrialize.
RECAP: Presidential Debate
One of the main topics covered during the 2nd Presidential Debate held in Cebu was climate change. Poe, Roxas and Duterte shared their thoughts on it. (Santiago was not present)
Question: “Nag-commit po ang Pilipinas sa United Nations na babawasan natin ang polusyon na hanggang 70% by 2030. Pero inaprubahan ni Pangulong Aquino ang maraming coal-fired plants para sa energy security natin. Paano natin matutupad ang ating commitment sa UN habang tumataas naman ang dependence natin sa coal para sa ating energy security?”
(The Philippines committed to reduce emissions down to 70% by 2030. However, President Aquino still approved numerous coal-fired plants for our energy security. How can we ensure our commitment to UN when we are still dependent on coal?)
Poe: “…sa tingin ko ang una nating gawin ay ilikas ang 13 million six hundred na mga residente dun sa mga high risk areas. Yun ang una, prevention. Pangalawa, isipin natin ang mga magsasaka natin. (I think we have to evacuate those who are in high-risk areas. Prevention is priority. Next, we need to think about our farmers.)
“…drought ngayon, kailangan natin ang drought resistant na pananim para naman patuloy ang buhay nila. Kailangan tayo magkaroon ng mga dams, mga water entrapment facilities, mga flood control projects para naman maligtas natin ang ating mga kababayan. (We need drought-resistant plants for our farmers so they can sustain their livelihood. We also need dams, water-entrapment facilities and flood-control projects to ensure the safety of the people.)
Roxas: “Well, napakahalaga na simulan natin ang transition towards clean energy dahil tayo isa sa pinaka-tinatamaan ng epekto ng global warming… Importante na simulan natin ang pagtungo sa clean energy.” (It is very important to start transitioning towards clean energy because we are highly affected by global warming.)
“‘Pag ako’y naging pangulo, bibigyan ko ng insentiba yung natural gas, yung mga iba pang clean energy tulad ng geo, tulad ng hydro para yung ating energy mix, which right now is 50% coal and oil ay mabawasan ng sa ganon mas maraming malinis na energy ang gagamitin natin.” (If I become the president, I will give incentives to natural gas and other forms of clean energy such as geo and hydro. In that way, our energy mix, which is right now 50% coal and oil, will be lessened and more clean energy will be utilized.)
Duterte: “We only contribute a third of the footprints – carbon footprints, so very little. And yet, we are a growing country, we need to industrialize, we need energy. Ang sabi ko, susunod tayo,(I said we are going to cooperate), but you know even climate change – climate change does not have to be discussed. It is here. El Niño is the climate change. Kaya ning mga lupa mo maski saan-saan,(The lands in most areas), they are cracking up, even in Luzon. That’s pollution.
Your climate change is already there. So what we should do is to do remedial measures, pero huwag lang tayo, because we have noticed that those who are really into heavy industries are the first world countries.”
The Green Cards
The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF– Philippines) posted on their Facebook account about the Green Score Cards from the Green Thumb Coalition. These results were from surveys, platforms and background of the candidates in terms of agriculture, biodiversity, climate, energy, and development issues.
Be a Green Voter!
The future of our planet lies on how our leaders protect the environment. Think, assess and choose your President carefully. It doesn’t matter what color your bet represents; let’s go for green agendas!
Sources:
WWF-Philippines
http://ipilipino.com/
http://www.ovp.gov.ph/
https://www.oxfam.org
http://miriam.com.ph/
http://gracepoe.ph
FULL TRANSCRIPT: 2nd #PiliPinas2016 presidential debate in UP Cebu
http://media.philstar.com/images/pilipino-star-ngayon/bansa/20160321/presidetial-debate-1.jpg
On the third week of April 2016, a series of massive earthquakes hit different parts of the world, killing more than 700 people. These raised a common question among Filipinos: Is the “Big One” about to happen in the country soon?
JAPAN
On April 14, a magnitude 6.2 earthquake shook the island of Kyushu in Southwest Japan. Unknown to many, this was just a foreshock of a bigger quake.
On a Friday morning, April 15, a massive magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck Kumamoto in the Kyushu Region killing 48 people. More than 680 aftershocks were recorded since the April 14 foreshock—of these, 89 registered at magnitude 4 or more on Japan’s intensity scale.
As of posting, the incident left three persons missing, about 3,000 wounded, and nearly 100,000 people in evacuation centers in Kyushu. The quake damaged homes, schools, commercial buildings and roads. Meanwhile, car company plants of Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi and Daihatsu in Kyushu have also halted production due to a shortage of production components as a result of damaged facilities and assembly equipment.
EQUADOR
A day after the destructive earthquake in Japan, a stronger 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit Ecuador, a country located in the northwest part of South America.
Considered as Ecuador’s worst quake in nearly seven decades, the quake killed 654 people, injured 16,600 and left 58 others unaccounted for. In a statement over the weekend, Ecuador President Rafael Correa said that estimated damages are at $3 billion. More than 700 aftershocks continued to shake the country since the major quake.
Days prior and after these major quakes, strong tremors were also monitored in some parts of the world including Afghanistan (magnitude 6.6, April 10); Vanuatu (magnitude 6.9, April 14) Guatemala (magnitude 6.2, April 15); Myanmar (magnitude 6.9, April 13); and Tonga (magnitude 5.8, April 17).
WERE THE JAPAN AND ECUADOR QUAKES RELATED?
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), no research has been done to prove that the two occurrences in Japan and Ecuador quakes are connected.
“It was one day after the Ecuador earthquake and two days after the Japanese earthquake… usually, we don’t think earthquakes are connected across the ocean,” said USGS geologist Paul Caruso in an interview with CNN International.
These two countries are also miles apart. Specifically, the distance between Japan and Ecuador is 15,445 kilometers.
WILL THE BIG ONE FOLLOW IN THE PH?
The recent earthquakes in our neighboring countries have raised the question from some Filipinos: Will a massive earthquake hit the country soon?
Though it’s true that Japan and Ecuador are thousands of kilometers apart, these countries have one thing in common with the Philippines: they all fall within the Pacific Ring of Fire.
The Ring of Fire is a horseshoe-shaped area in the Pacific border, described as a string of volcanoes and sites of seismic activities, or earthquakes.
On April 14, the same day when a 6.2 magnitude foreshock hit Japan, a magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck Baliguian, Zamboanga Del Norte. As of press date, this has been the strongest quake to hit the Philippines this month. According to the Zamboanga City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, the incident injured three people and damaged four houses in Barangay Sinunoc.
However, in an interview with Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology and Volcanology (Phivolcs) Director Renato Solidum Jr., he debunked beliefs that quakes around the world indicate an impending tremor in the country: “Hindi ito mga indikasyon, kung ang pag-uusapan ay lindol sa iba’t ibang mga bansa. Ang pagkakaroon ng malakas na paglindol ay possible naman talaga dito sa ating bansa.”
(Quakes are always possible in the Philippines, but their occurrences in other parts of the world are not indicators that a tremor will also happen in the country.)
“Sa nakalipas na apat na raang taon, nagkaroon na ng siyamnapu’t na destructive earthquakes. At posible pang mangyari sa mga susunod na panahon. Kaya lang, wala pa tayong masasabi kung kelan talaga mangyayari ito. Wala pang nakakapag-predict ng earthquake, na magsasabi sa ’tin ng oras, ng araw, at ng magnitude ng earthquake na posibleng mangyari. Pero ang importante, alam natin ang posibleng mangyaring mga lindol, pwede natin malaman kung gaano kalakas o kung gaano pwedeng mangyari’t pwedeng paghandaan.”
(In the past 400 years, 90 destructive earthquakes were recorded, which took place at a time and day no one was able to predict. Although these events remain unpredictable, what is important is that we know the possible strength and impacts of earthquakes. Hence, we can prepare.)
PREPAREDNESS
Meanwhile, to intensify community preparedness and the local government’s commitment, the National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill was held last April 21, a week after the major earthquakes in Japan and Ecuador occurred.
A ceremonial launch was conducted at Clark Airbase in Pampanga, which was designated as the government’s headquarters in case the “Big One” happened in Metro Manila and nearby places, where a “very ripe” West Valley Fault is located.
The West Valley Fault has a 100-kilometer length, crossing Rizal, Marikina, Quezon City, Pasig, Makati, Taguig, Muntinlupa and Laguna. Thirty five percent of the population inhabiting the said areas live right above this fault line.
While earthquakes remain unpredictable and inevitable, preparedness also remains as a salient factor in spelling the difference between life and death.
“Ang paghahanda po sa lindol ay hindi madali. Napakaraming gagawin. Hindi ‘yan tulad ng bagyo. Lahat nakakapagbigay ng babala at pwedeng maghanda ang mga tao bago dumating ang mga ito. Ang mga paglindol ay biglaan kaya ang ating pagreresponde ay mabilis, angkop. Depende sa konteksto kung nasaan ka. Kaya dapat ang ating aksyon pag lilindol na ay mabilisan, tama at mangyayari lamang ito kung ang ating pagsasanay ay madalas,” said Solidum.
(Earthquake preparedness is complex. It is not like storms that can be predicted and prepared for. Earthquakes can occur anytime without warning. Thus, actions need to be quick, accurate, and within context. These things can only be done with frequent drills and preparedness measures.)
REFERENCES AND PHOTOS:
http://www.cbc.ca/news
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/
http://edition.cnn.com/
http://www.fukuoka-now.com/
http://www.phivolcs.dost.gov.ph/
http://www.reuters.com/
Though summer vacations are all about having fun under the sun, travelers must take caution to avoid accidents and sicknesses. The best way to be prepared for small emergencies is by packing a travel kit filled with the following things:
• Bottled water – This can be used for instant hydration, taking medicines, and also for sanitation.
• Portable flashlight – With the imminent power shortage this summer, a portable flashlight can be your best friend. It’s a handy tool when you’re lost and finding your way in the dark.
• Whistle – When you find yourself detached from the tour group, a whistle is an important tool in bringing attention to yourself, instead of shouting yourself hoarse. It can also alert others to life-threatening instances, such as an intruder in your room.
• Rubbing Alcohol – This can be used to disinfect hands before eating and for cleaning wounds.
• Wet wipes- For a quick, refreshing break, swipe on some wet wipes to cool down your body. It can also be used to clean surfaces and parts of your body.
• Insect repellant- The Dengue and Zika Viruses are still lurking around, so slap on some insect repellant to drive those dangerous mosquitoes away.
• Thermometer- Because fever can strike anytime, anywhere, it’s best to equip yourself with a digital thermometer so you can monitor your health.
• Sunblock with SPF 30- Avoid sunburn and even skin cancer by applying sunblock before going out.
Suggested Medicines:
• Paracetamol for fever
• Antihistamine for allergy attacks
• Antacids for heart burn
•
For Cuts and wounds:
• cotton
• Povidone-Iodine
• adhesive bandages
• antiseptic cream
Always remember that instead of self-medication, it’s best to consult a doctor. Stay safe and healthy while enjoying your vacation!
Source(s):
http://www.walkflypinoy.com/2011/10/first-aid-kit-essentials-for-travelers.html
http://www.nhs.uk/chq/pages/990.aspx?CategoryID=72&SubCategoryID=725