In a press release dated January 18, 2017, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) confirmed that 2016 was the hottest year on record. With a global average temperature of 1.1 degrees Celsius higher than the pre-industrial period, it surpassed the heat recorded in 2015.According to WMO, it was approximately 0.07 degrees Celsius warmer than the previous year.
A strong El Niño event was assumed as one of the main factors that fuelled high temperatures during the early months of 2016. However, high temperatures prevailed even after the El Niño episode.
Climate change is the long-term shift in weather patterns in a region. This includes changes in precipitation, temperatures, sea levels and many more. It is also a phenomenon brought by the increased emission of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
According to Dr. Rosa Perez of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Climate change can be caused either by natural occurrences or human activities. Natural causes include the sun’s activity, volcanic eruptions and other natural events that contribute to the warming of the earth.
But the problem now is that climate change has worsened due to human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels, clearing of forests, improper waste management and production of industrialized products.
Among the greenhouse gases, carbon dioxide has one of the most ample concentrations in the atmosphere. In September last year, carbon dioxide levels have exceeded the tipping point or the harmful threshold of 440 parts per million (ppm). This figure indicates more catastrophic events like extreme drought, melting of ice, sea level rise and stronger typhoons in the future.
2016 was filled with extreme weather events, leaving socio-economic disruption and losses. The warming of the ocean has contributed to widespread coral bleaching.
Recently, the United Nations reported that three-quarters of the world’s coral reefs are expected to be exposed to terrible heat by 2070. Reefs closer to the equator face annual bleaching that may occur at an earlier frequency, affecting more than 75% of the reefs.
Coral bleaching happens once the micro plants called “zooxanthellae” leave the corals when the water becomes warm because of climate change. This leads to the deprivation of the corals’ food source and color, turning them white or bleached. If the heat persists for a longer period of time, the corals may die. When this happens, it will take decades for reefs to recover or worse, they may not recover at all.
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PH ratification of Paris Agreement underway
“Addressing global warming shall be our top priority, but upon a fair and equitable equation. It must not stymie our industrialization.” These were the words uttered by President Rodrigo Duterte during his 1st State of the Nation Address (SONA) in July 2016.
Earlier this year, Duterte announced that he will be signing the Paris Agreement by July 2017. Before the agreement reaches our President, 33 government agencies and private groups have to submit their respective Certificates of Concurrence first. These certificates will serve as a guarantee that the agencies understand, approve and are willing to cooperate in the implementation of the pact.
Sources:
World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
Climate Home
Climate Central
PAGASA
Rappler
Science Daily
The New Year symbolizes fresh starts. For most of us, goals at the start of the year include a fitness routine. We all know the benefits of exercise: healthy skin, feel-good endorphins and overall physical wellness. And if you feel like trying something new to tone your muscles and burn fat, here are some of this year’s fitness trends!
1. Crawling
Looking for a multi-joint workout that engages the entire body with emphasis on the core and shoulder muscles? Do as the babies do before they learn to walk—crawl! In the book, Becoming Bulletproof, fitness expert Tim Anderson explains that infants crawl to develop unilateral strength in all four limbs, which is essential to walking. Crawling helps develop endurance and stability in the wrists, shoulders, hips, ankles and toe, while providing support for your back. Plus, it also promotes healthier blood pressure!
Video courtesy: Redefining Strength
2. Boxing
This anxiety-reducing, ultra-empowering workout has been around for a while, but some predict that it will be a hit more than ever this year. Aside from increasing endurance, strength and speed, it also has mental perks! Boxing requires a focused mind, and can also serve as a form of meditation.
This year, more and more women are getting into boxing. Gone are the stereotypes of bulky arms, monster muscles and nosebleed; boxing is now considered a brilliant way of sculpting and toning.
But if you’re too busy to swing by the gym, the next best thing is to do it virtually. Set to launch this year, The Boxx Method (theboxxmethod.com) is the “world’s first virtual boxing experience.”
Video courtesy: Wexer
3. Workout Apps
Let’s face it; gym memberships can be expensive. Home workouts are becoming more popular, not just because of their convenience, but also because of their affordability. This year, workout videos-on-demand will continue to expand this year on the internet. More and more people are streaming their daily needs, so why should workouts be any different? From strength training and yoga, to running and boxing, social media outlets are now providing fitness routines from health professionals.
Here’s our top 5 list of apps available free on Android and iOS that provide step-by-step instructions—just like an expensive trainer—for free:
1. Map My Fitness
2. Workout Trainer
3. Nike + Training Club
4. JEFIT
5. Daily Workouts
Exercise is medicine—and yes, it is possible to adopt a lifestyle that includes regular exercise. Go ahead and jumpstart your year with the life-boosting activities today!
(UPDATED AS OF 11:00 AM) The Low Pressure Area (LPA) and Tail-End of a Cold Front dumped almost a month’s volume of rain in one day in some provinces earlier this week.
In an interview with Panahon TV, PAGASA Weather Forecaster Gener Quitlong said that the biggest amount of rainfall was recorded in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte on Monday, January 16, 2017. Rain amounted to 209.7 millimeters of rain, almost double the average of rainfall expected in a month.
In Misamis Oriental, 72.4 millimeters of rain were recorded in the 24-hour monitoring. This period almost surpassed the station’s total average rainfall for January, which is 98.9 millimeters. Widespread rains in the province caused flooding in Cagayan de Oro, forcing local officials to declare a state of calamity.
photos courtesy of John Ian Udang and Rowena Ambit
Two days after the flood, rains are still likely to prevail in some parts of Mindanao.
The Tail-End of a Cold Front continues to affect Visayas and the eastern section of Mindanao, while the Northeast Monsoon remains dominant in Luzon.
This midweek, cloudy skies with light to moderate rains and isolated thunderstorms will be experienced in Visayas, Mindanao at Palawan.
Light rains will be experienced in Cagayan Valley, Cordillera and the province of Aurora, while partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated light rains will prevail in Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon.
If you were satisfied with the chilly ber months, brace yourselves for colder days! The Amihan Season isn’t over yet and is, in fact, now at its peak! Here are some things to expect in the coming days, which also doubles as a possible playlist this cold season.
1. “Baby, it’s cold outside.” (Michael Bublé)
Have you noticed the slightly cooler weather these past few days? Amihan is responsible for this sweater weather. Amihan, characterized by cold and dry air coming from Mainland China and Siberia, causes our temperatures to drop mostly in the country’s northern regions.
In recent reports from Benguet, frost has blanketed some of the vegetable fields. Historically, here are the lowest temperatures recorded in the Philippines during the peak of amihan:
2. “Raindrops keep falling on my head.” (BJ Thomas)
Apart from the chill, light rains may also occur during this season. Usually, partly cloudy to cloudy skies with light rains affect Northern and Central Luzon. But whenever a Low Pressure Area (LPA) or tropical cyclone prevails within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), the northeasterly winds may converge with it, dumping rainfall over the affected areas.
3. “Somebody take the storm away.” (Bobby Brown)
The peak of amihan does not equate to the absence of tropical cyclones. At least 1 or 2 tropical cyclones may still enter our premises. In fact, the stronger the amihan is, the higher the chance of the cyclone hitting the land. Amihan tends to divert the pathway of cyclones entering the PAR. So, aside from moving in a more northward direction, cyclones are being pushed down to the landmass.
4. “You’re hot and you’re cold.” (Katy Perry)
The cold and dry characteristics of amihan are the opposite of what a cyclone needs to sustain its energy. A cyclone needs warm and moist surroundings to maintain its intensity. If amihan strengthens, it may cause a cyclone or an LPA to weaken and may even dissipate.
5. “Ocean deep, I’m afraid to show my feelings.” (Cliff Richard)
Just like the southwest monsoon or hanging habagat, amihan can also trigger rough coastal waters. Gale warnings are usually issued by PAGASA in areas with strong to gale force winds. Rough to very rough sea conditions may interrupt sea travel as sea conditions may be risky for fishing boats and other small sea craft.
What do you want to be when you grow up? For sure, some kids would say: to become an astronaut. In fact, we all probably dreamed of the same thing at some point in our lives. There’s something about outer space that fascinates us. Proof of this are all the space-oriented books, movies and TV shows present in our pop culture.
But space exploration entails great discipline. Astronauts are trained through a human spaceflight program to either command, pilot or serve as a crew member of a spacecraft. If you’re one of those dreaming to become an astronaut, here are some of the things you need to do before handing in that application:
STUDY FIRST!
One of the basic requirements of being an astronaut is having a bachelor’s degree in engineering, biological science, physical science or mathematics. According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the International Space Station (ISS) can only accommodate six persons at a time because each exploration is quite pricey. That is why it is vital for NASA to send only highly qualified individuals to ensure the success of the mission.
BE PHYSICALLY FIT.
For obvious reasons, being healthy and fit is also one of NASA’s basic requirements to become an astronaut. You must have:
• A distant visual acuity of 20/100 or better uncorrected, correctable to 20/20 each eye
• A sitting blood pressure of 140/190
• Height between 62 and 75 inches tall
These basic physical characteristics ensure that you would be able to perform your job well while you are in orbit. An emergency flight back to earth due to a health concern may not be feasible.
Astronauts in training
Image source: www.wordpress.com; www.jsc.nasa.gov
MORE TRAINING!
Once accepted into the program, you can’t be called a full-fledged astronaut just yet. Candidates must undergo a two-year rigid training in order to be space-ready. This includes learning about the International Space Station and the basics of spaceflight. Candidates also undergo military water training, swimming tests and are exposed to extreme conditions, such as high and low atmospheric pressures. These rigorous activities are designed to prepare potential astronauts to what they may experience in orbit.
However, there’s no assurance that right after training, successful astronauts will immediately go to space. Most of NASA’s astronauts work as support crew to other astronauts in orbit. This is another form of training for them to gain more knowledge and skills so that when it’s their turn to fly into orbit, they will be better equipped.
Once an astronaut is scheduled for a mission, he spends a few more years of training, which includes more classroom learning and simulation trainings—but this time, these would be held all over the world. He will also get a chance to train with his crewmates so they will be more familiar with each other and their specific responsibilities.
It should also be noted that astronauts don’t just spend their time working solely with NASA. They also work with the agency’s international partners, such as training facilities in Canada.
We all know that the universe is vast with hidden mysteries waiting to be discovered. If you dream of being an astronaut, you must be dedicated enough to face all the challenges that you might encounter. When you love what you’re doing, you’ll be able to surpass everything in order to reach your dream—and yes, even outer space.
Sources:
http://www.space.com/25786-how-to-become-an-astronaut.html
https://www.nasa.gov/audience/forstudents/postsecondary/features/F_Astronaut_Requirements.html
http://science.howstuffworks.com/question5341.htm
https://www.quora.com/Why-do-NASA-astronauts-need-to-have-a-degree-in-math-or-science
By: Jeroh P. Hiyastro – Panahon.TV Intern
(UPDATED AS OF DECEMBER 19, 2016) Apart from gift-giving, caroling, parties and traditional food, Christmas in the Philippines will not be complete without Simbang Gabi.
Translates to Night Mass, Simbang Gabi is held from December 16-24 and is usually done as early as 4:00 or 5:00 in the morning.
The tradition began in 1587 when Pope Sixtus V granted the petition of Father Diego de Soria to hold Christmas masses outdoors in order to accommodate the huge number of people attending the evening mass. Eventually, in the 17th century, the dawn mass was introduced in the Philippines by the Spanish conquerors.
In most parts of the world it is celebrated in anticipation of Christmas and honor to the Blessed Virgin Mary. For nine days, devotees flock to churches at dawn to attend masses.
Centuries have passed but the tradition of Simbang Gabi continues in the Philippines. Colorful lights, lanterns and songs in every street are scenes to look forward to every morning. Shortly after the masses, families gather to feast on various delicacies like bibingka, puto bumbong, or a drink of salabat or hot chocolate.
On the last day of Simbang Gabi, which is Christmas Eve, it is called Misa de Gallo which literally translates to Rooster’s Mass. It is believed that the completion of Simbang Gabi would mean granting of a prayer.
Since over 70 million Filipinos are Catholic – according to a report by the Catholic Directory of the Philippines – Simbang Gabi is indeed a big tradition. So prepare and be guided. Here’s the weather outlook for the next days: http://panahon.tv/weather-today/
“A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies. The man who never reads lives only one.”
Such were the words of George Raymond Richard Martin, an American novelist, short-story writer, television producer and the brilliant mind behind the hit series Game of Thrones.
Truly, reading plays an important role in shaping a person’s life, and the society as a whole. Reading allows us to explore new things, gain information and understand the world from various perspectives.
In 2008, former Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III declared November 27 as Araw ng Pagbasa to stress the vital role of reading. Thereafter, the annual advocacy program continues and has been adopted by the Department of Education (DepEd).
If you can’t decide on what book to pick up next, let your favorite PanahonTV reporters give you some ideas:
AMOR LARROSA
Amor is a senior weather reporter of the program. Seasoned at covering issues on climate change, disasters and preparedness, she goes by the title of Weather Lover and believes that, “Ang taong handa at mahinahon, kayang lagpasan ang hamon ng panahon”
What is the importance of reading?
Reading is the cheapest way to explore. It’s like having a special power to travel the world, meet people and discover new things for free. It is a sweet escape from the real world, but could also give you the chance to become a better person when you go back to reality.
What is the title of your favorite book?
The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint Exupéry
What is your favorite line from the book?
“It is only with the heart that one can see rightly. What is essential is not visible to the eye.”
What is the most important lesson from the book?
Dubbed as a children’s book written for grown-ups, The Little Prince offers a myriad of life lessons. This book reminded me that beyond the appearance, what is more important is what’s underneath. Most people prioritize how they look on the outside, without realizing that what’s inside their soul matters the most. Each one of us conceals a treasure that can only be discovered by the heart.
EUNICE JUNTAYAS
Eunice enjoys wearing many hats, including being a handicraft artist, storyteller, photographer, and most recently, Panahon TV’s latest weather reporter. Being a responsible broadcast journalist allows her to spread her eco-friendly advocacies, and inspire her fellow youth to embrace their uniqueness and creativity.
What is the importance of reading?
Reading is a shared experience. It connects us into a more solid foundation of learning. Books are beyond imagination; it could take us to places without minding the rule of time. Most importantly, it is like navigating through endless possibilities guiding us in everything we do.
What is the title of your favorite book?
The Holy Bible
What is your favorite line from the book?
“The Lord is my shepherd.”
What is the most important lesson from the book?
Our life has a purpose. The Bible gives specific answers to this life’s most difficult questions. I learned that there is a God who is so loving and who wanted to give us so much more than what this life could offer. Reading the Bible is a lifestyle.
PERSONAL CHOICE
Reading may be one of the cheapest ways to learn, but it can certainly make a person richer in all areas of life. When you read, you are not only limited to what you can imagine. The worlds, characters and ideals described in books, newspapers, magazines and other reading materials help us expand our understanding of what is possible.
One of my favorite books was written by Miss Universe 1999 First Runner-up Miriam Quiambao, entitled He Can Catch You When You Fall.
My favorite line from the book is: “Ever since I tripped and fell down at the Miss Universe coronation night, God has always been there to pick me up and redeem all the mistakes and falls I’ve made in the hope that it will inspire many to trust that, indeed, God can catch you when you fall.”
I personally love this book because it’s uplifting and inspiring. I admire how the author shared her life stories, which really encourage women to be honest and share the Truth. I’ve been through a lot when it comes to romance, failure and sadness, but this book reminds me that letting go and letting God would go a long way. Everything else will fall into place, in His perfect timing and His perfect Will.
Walking the same streets where some of our nation’s artistic giants left their footprints on is definitely an enriching experience.
Angono, a first class municipality in the province of Rizal, is known for its strength and vibrant culture. Its rich artistic history can be traced back to 3000 BC, and proof of which is the discovery of the Angono Petroglyphs, the oldest known work of art in the Philippines. Angono is also home to some of the country’s highly celebrated artists like composer and musician Lucio San Pedro and muralist Carlos “Botong” Francisco, who are both National Artists.
Apart from exemplifying artistic talent, the townspeople definitely know how BIG a deal it is to be dubbed as the Art Capital of the Philippines. Angonians are well known for making larger-than-life caricatures for one of the most delightful fiestas in the Philippines, the “Higantes Festival.”
Check out this video to experience this exciting celebration:
BIG Preparations
Preparation starts as early as September, where students with their drums and lyres can be heard practicing their parade piece. The vibrant color and sound uplifts the whole celebration, encouraging onlookers to move and groove with the beat.
It’s really bigger than you think! Some of these faces might even be familiar. Can you guess who this giant is with his trademark checkered polo and that hands-under-the-chin pose?
That’s right! That’s no other than President Rodrigo Duterte.
Nothing can stop a fan from taking a selfie with this giant sporting the uniform of his favorite basketball team! And don’t you think his smile says it all?
Gilbert Onidad 16, has been carrying the Higantes for five years, “Tradisyonal po ito kaya ginagawa ko at panata na rin po. Gusto ko pong makapag tapos ng pag-aaral para makatulong sa magulang.”
Regardless of the tiring day, they still manage to smile believing that they have contributed something for their beloved hometown.
BIG Environmental Concern
As Mayor Gerardo Calderon strictly imposes “Zero Basura”, the Higantes are made with recycled paper. This emphasizes the importance of creative recycling and consequently, conserving the environment.
BIG Art Platforms
Angonians continue to attract art lovers not only from across the country but as well as globally. One of the highlights of this festival was an exhibit launch, which promotes the use art for intercultural dialogue and understanding. Figurative artist and art leader Nemesio “Nemi” R Miranda Jr. explains, “Last year, 2015, our Philippine embassy, together with the Malaysian embassy, helped us coordinate with Malaysian artists. We entered to an agreement and applied to the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, that we are wiling to implement that cultural bilateral. We did the initiative to visit Malaysia and get to know the artists. And from that we are able to come up with what we call ‘ArtDialogo’.
“In this intercultural exhibit, we showcase both Filipino and Malaysian artists.” Nemiranda also stresses that, “This is the start. We are trying to put Angono in the global map as far as art is concerned.”
Looking back, I realized that the best way to truly appreciate Filipino art is by immersing oneself in the company of innovative individuals and in a place where artistry remains a priority. Walking the streets of Angono and taking part in their Higantes festival provide a different perspective and a beautiful reminder that continuing one’s traditions is key to solidifying one’s identity.
For a more enriching cultural experience, the town of Angono should definitely be high up in your list of must-travel destinations.
Disasters strike like thieves in the night, unpredictable and dangerous. In a span of six days, they’ve wreaked havoc in different parts of the world, including the Philippines.
Sinkhole in Downtown Fukuoka
On November 8, a giant sinkhole ripped a busy road in the southwestern stretch of Fukuoka, Southern Japan. The 15-meter-deep sinkhole spanned 30 meters—
roughly half the size of an Olympic swimming pool. Though not a single person was injured, it caused interruptions in water, power, telecommunications and gas supply in some parts of the city. Residents speculated that the nearby subway construction might have triggered the slumping of the 5-lane thoroughway, but civil engineering experts attributed it to the soil’s composition, which is mostly sand.
Japan proved its efficiency in crisis management as sewage pipes and utility lines in the business district were restored in just two days. Nearly a week later, the collapsed road was repaired with a mixture of sand and cement, making it 30 times stronger than it used to be. On November 15, pedestrians and vehicles started using the re-opened street.
Quake in New Zealand
On November 13, a powerful 7.8 magnitude quake hit New Zealand’s South Island—the strongest in the region since 1929. Tsunamis towering up to 8 feet followed minutes after the groundshaking. These inundated communities in Kaikoura, a coastal town near the city of Christchurch. “This is the highest tsunami wave that New Zealand has seen in at least 38 years,” said Weather Watch New Zealand. According to experts, the tsunamis could have been more catastrophic if these transpired during high tide. Luckily, tide level was low at that time.
Apart from homes, livelihoods, office buildings and transport routes reduced to rubble, two fatalities in Canterbury were also reported. “In the short term, what we’re trying to do is to make sure that people of Kaikoura and the like have food, water, help and backup,” NZ Prime Minister John Key said.
No less than 40 aftershocks were recorded, but the strongest was a magnitude 6.2, which occurred a few hours after the major quake.
The 2016 Kaikoura quake has less death tolls than the massive 6.3 magnitude quake that struck Christchurch in 2011, causing 185 fatalities.
An average of 15,000 quakes per year are recorded in New Zealand, but about 150 are strong enough to be felt. The country is situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, a horseshoe-shaped region where the most number of quakes and volcanic activities transpire.
On the same day, a 6.2 magnitude quake rocked Northwestern Argentina. The epicenter was recorded in the La Rioja province, but tremors were also felt in Catamarca, Tucuman, and Cordoba. However, these caused no damage and injuries.
Know how to prepare for huge quakes:
Volcano Erupts in Mexico
Western Mexico’s Colima Volcano, also known as the Volcano of Fire displayed unusual seismic activities, which prompted the evacuation of hundreds of people earlier this year. After a few months, this volcano erupted, forcing similar evacuations last October.
But last November 15, Tuesday, the abnormal activity of the volcano slowly increased as the new lava dome in its summit crater continued to grow. Its lava flow, rock fall, glowing avalanches and ash fall posed a threat to locals.
Colima Volcano has an elevation of nearly 4,000 meters with a 5-kilometer-wide crater mouth. 30 eruptions have been recorded in the past 431 years. It is considered one of the most active and dangerous volcanoes in Central America.
Know how to prepare for volcanic eruptions:
Mandaluyong faces State of Calamity
Three people died as 500 houses were burned down in an 8-hour blaze in Mandaluyong City on November 13, at around 7:45 pm. The fire consumed sections of two densely populated and fire-prone barangays. The Bureau of Fire Protection traced the cause to a leaking gas tank, and estimated property loss at 10 million pesos.
1,465 families from Barangays Addition Hills and San Jose were left homeless. Some have evacuated to a covered court and two elementary schools. The local government promised to provide financial assistance to the displaced families, and help them reconstruct their homes or move to new residences. P8,000 shall be given to families who lost their abodes; home sharers shall receive P5,000; while families who were renting would get P3,000.
On November 15, another fire incident transpired in Barangay Addition Hills—the fifth in the area for this year.
Here’s how you can prevent loss of lives and property due to fire especially this holiday season: