Quantcast
Channel: MovePH
Viewing all 3254 articles
Browse latest View live

VIDEO: Aftermath of Typhoon Karen in Baler, Aurora

0
0

MANILA, Philippines – Roof materials, nails, food, canned goods, dry clothes, and water.

These are the immediate needs of residents of Baler, Aurora, where Typhoon Karen (Sarika) made landfall at 2:30 am on Sunday, October 16.

According to volunteer responder Jonel Buenaventura, Karen brought strong, damaging winds when it came ashore.

"Hindi po kalakas ang ulan kasi hindi napaapaw 'yung ilog," he added.

(The rain was not strong enough to cause the river to overflow.) 

Baler local Ron Manghinang took a video of the aftermath of Typhoon Karen a few hours after it made landfall, which showed the damage in his area. His cafe, Charlie Does, is accepting donations for typhoon relief. 

Aurora was among the provinces that conducted preemptive and forced evacuations in high-risk areas beginning Saturday afternoon, October 15.

Government responders also conducted forced preemptive evacuation for guests in seaside hotels and inns in Baler due to the threat of storm surges, the Philippine Information Authority reported.

As of 2 pm on Sunday, Typhoon Karen was already over the coastal waters of Pangasinan, moving away from land.

But after Karen leaves the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Monday, October 17, Severe Tropical Storm Haima will enter PAR. Haima will be given the local name Lawin. – Rappler.com


#WalangPasok: Class suspensions, Monday, October 17

0
0

What's the weather like in your area? Report the situation through Rappler's Agos or tweet us at @rapplerdotcom.

Please refresh this page for updates.

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – Here is a list of areas where classes and/or work have been suspended for Monday, October 17.

No classes: Local government announcements

Suspension of work

  • Nueva Ecija - work suspended in gov't offices except those involved in disaster response

Not on the list? Help us crowdsource class suspensions by posting in the comments section or tweeting @rapplerdotcom.

For more information: When are classes cancelled or suspended?  Rappler.com

DSWD to trekkers: Don't risk your lives during disasters

0
0

STAY SAFE. Social Welfare and Development Secretary Judy Taguiwalo calls on the youth and mountaineers to avoid climbing mountains when there's a typhoon.

MANILA, Philippines – Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Judy Taguiwalo on Sunday, October 16, urged trekkers not to climb mountains during severe weather.

"Nananawagan tayo sa mga kabataan natin at sa mga kababayan nating mahilig mamundok – sa mga (mountaineers), kailangang iwasan natin sa panahong may malinaw na darating na bagyo. Ngayon mayroon pang parating," Taguiwalo said. 

(We call on the youth, mountaineers to avoid climbing mountains when there's a typhoon. There's another one coming.) 

Taguiwalo, who is also the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) vice-chairperson for disaster response, was reacting to reports that mountaineers either went missing or got stranded as Typhoon Karen (Sarika) was battering parts of Luzon.

More than 120 stranded mountaineers were rescued in Bataan and Benguet after the onslaught of Typhoon Karen. (READ: LIVE UPDATES: Typhoon Karen)

One hundred mountaineers on Mt Tarak in Mariveles, Bataan were rescued at around noon on Sunday, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Northern Command.

Responders from the Army's 48th Infantry Battalion headed by 1st Lieutenant Francis Lobaton rescued the trapped mountaineers, of which 73 were registered while 27 were not.

Taguiwalo also announced during Sunday's press conference that 21 other stranded mountaineers on Mt Pulag were rescued. 

The NDRRMC also reported that 12 trekkers were stranded in Benguet earlier but are now safe. 

Taguiwalo said the DSWD will meet with mountaineering groups to discuss the protocol during disasters.

Typhoon Karen will leave the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Sunday night, but Typhoon Haima will enter PAR on Monday afternoon, October 17.– Rappler.com

DSWD: P1M worth of relief goods given to families affected by Karen

0
0

MANILA, Philippines – About P1 million worth of relief goods from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and local government units have been provided to thousands of families who are affected by Typhoon Karen (Sarika) in Luzon.

DSWD Secretary Judy Taguiwalo also urged residents to "approach their local authorities for any relief supplies that they need," assuring them that there are enough goods.

However, she also said there are some difficulties in distributing the relief goods, especially in far-flung areas.

As of 2 pm on Sunday, October 16, there are about 2,628 displaced families in Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, and Bicol, according to the DSWD.

Around 2,009 of those families are staying in 138 evacuation centers.

Typhoon Karen will leave the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Sunday night, but Typhoon Haima will enter PAR on Monday afternoon, October 17. – Rappler.com

Cagayan, Isabela residents warned of higher floods

0
0

FLOOD WARNING. Residents in the Cagayan Valley region are warned of possible flashfloods due to the continuous release of water from the Magat Dam. Photo from Wikipedia

TUGUEGARAO CITY, Philippines – Residents in Cagayan Valley, one of the regions affected by Typhoon Karen (Sarika), were warned of possible flashfloods and landslides due to the continuous release of water from the Magat Dam.

In its 5 pm flood bulletin on Sunday, October 16, PAGASA-North Luzon said flashfloods could hit dozens of low-lying areas in Isabela and Cagayan within the the next 8 to 12 hours.

Forecasters advised local disaster agencies to immediately alert residents of affected areas.

As of 7 pm, Magat Dam's 7 spillway gates were opened at 13 meters high. The water level was 189.81 meters and the outflow was 2,638 cubic meters per second.

PAGASA said rising water levels in the upper, middle, and lower Cagayan River as well as its tributaries are threatening 16 towns in Isabela province and 13 towns in Cagayan province.

In Tuguegarao City, the Pinacanauan Overflow Bridge and Teresa Boulevard are already unpassable, according to the city disaster agency.

Several bridges were also closed in Isabela province due to swollen rivers. As of 8 pm, these bridges are: 

 

  • Pigalo Bridge in Angadanan town
  • Baculud Overflow Bridge in Ilagan City
  • Masaya Sur Overflow Bridge in San Agustin town
  • Santo Tomas Overflow Bridge in Santo Tomas town
  • Gucab-Annafunan Overflow Bridge in Echague town
  • Alicacao Bridge in Cauayan City
  • Santa Maria Overflow Bridge in Santa Maria town
  • Cabisera 8 in Ilagan City
  • Turod-Banquero Bridge in Reina Mercedes town

 

Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba already suspended classes in all levels in the province for Monday, October 17.

Cagayan disaster risk reduction and management chief Bonifacio Cuarteros said they recommended the suspension of classes due to "expected flooding in low-lying areas" and to ensure the safety of students crossing the overflow bridges Tawi, Abusag, Bagunut, Maguiling Piat, and Tuguegarao Pinacanauan.

The province is considered a catch basin, receiving large amounts of rainfall from Isabela, Kalinga, Apayao, and Mountain Province.  Rappler.com

Who brought Espinosa to Abu Dhabi?

0
0

File photo courtesy of PDEA Region 7 chief Yogi Filemon Ruiz

DUBAI, UAE – Suspected drug lord Roland “Kerwin” Espinosa Jr, wouldn’t have been in Abu Dhabi had it not for someone who sponsored his visit visa – and this, Philippine Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates Constancio R. Vingno, Jr. indicated, is now the focus of an investigation.

In a phone interview, Vingno said that the subject of the ongoing probe is the owner of the flat where the fugitive was arrested. The envoy said Espinosa was nabbed in a flat along Khalifa Bin Zayed First Street. (READ: Kerwin Espinosa nabbed in Abu Dhabi)

“Somebody must have sponsored him, somebody who has a residence visa in the UAE,” he told The Filipino Times.

“Malalaman yan sa imbestigasyon. Yung phone nila, titignan kung sinu-sino ang naka-usap dito sa Abu Dhabi. Lahat ng tinawagan nila, aalamin,” Vingno said. “Somebody must have also rented a house for him. If you are not a legal resident, you cannot rent an apartment,” he added. (We will find that out in the investigation. We will check their phones to see who they've talked with here in Abu Dhabi. We will know everyone they've called.)

Quiet operation

Vingno said the arrest “was done very quietly,” adding that he was informed about the operation Sunday morning, October 16, by a team of senior police officials from Manila led by Col. Enrique Magalona, the Philippines’ police attaché in the region based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

“The information about the impending arrest ended with me and I didn’t tell anybody. Umaga pa lang alam ko na na may nangyayari. Our police operatives gave the UAE police the intelligence. At 10pm Sunday night, they told me he (Espinosa) was already captured,” Vingno said. (I've known since morning that something was happening.)

Vingno said he has formally asked the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs to see Espinosa, who is detained by the Ministry of the Interior.

Extradition

Vingno said the Philippines has no extradition treaty with the UAE. But in the absence of any violations of UAE laws that Espinosa may have committed during his stay, the ambassador said, “Idi-deport siya sa atin.” (He will be deported.)

“It will now be diplomacy at work. Maski na wala tayong extradition treaty with UAE, the fact that nakipag-cooperate sila in capturing a fugitive from justice is a very good indication that he will be turned over to us,” he said. (Even if we don't have an extradition treaty with UAE, the fact that they cooperated with us in capturing a fugitive is a very good indication that he will be turned over to us.) – Rappler.com

This story was republished with permission from The Filipino Times of the United Arab Emirates

 

Filipino trainee ‘died from overwork’ – Japan's labor ministry

0
0

MANILA, Philippines – Japan's labor ministry has recognized the death of a 27-year-old Filipino trainee in Gifu Prefecture in 2014 as a case of karoshi, or death by overwork, Japanese media reported Monday, October 17.

The Gifu Labor Standard Inspection Office said Joey Tocnang, who came to Japan as a trainee at a casting company in August 2011, logged 122.5 hours of overtime every month before he died – a violation of Japan's labor code.

Tocnang, who cut steel and painted chemicals to a mold at his company, was reportedly paid minimum salary and sent most of his earnings to his wife and daughter in the Philippines.

Tocnang died of heart failure in 2014 inside his dorm, just 3 months before his scheduled return to the Philippines, according to the  Asahi Shimbun

Following Tocnang’s death, the labor office urged his family to claim for workers’ compensation which it did, prompting an investigation into the case.

Asahi Shimbun reported that the labor ministry recognized the family’s claim in August, entitling it to 3 million yen ($28,823) in lumpsum payment and 2 million yen ($19,221) annually in survivor’s annuity.

There has been an increasing number of compensation claims due to karoshi in Japan, according to a Reuters report.

The Japan Times said that Tocnang’s case marks the second time the government recognized a case of karoshi involving a foreign trainee. The first  was in 2010 involving a Chinese intern who worked at a metal processing company in Itako, Ibaraki Prefecture.

Japan’s Technical Intern Training Program started in 1993, allowing the entry of trainees from developing countries like the Philippines. The program has been crticized in Japan and abroad, due to labor rights violations and occupational health and safety issues. – Don Kevin Hapal/Rappler.com

US$1 = ¥105.05

Made by women: Entrepreneurs find common ground at unique market

0
0

MADE BY WOMEN. Oxfam Philippines and Dakila set up the Women's Market - a marketplace of homegrown and handcrafted merchandise?. Photo by Denise Nacnac/Rappler

MANILA, Philippines -“Mare, hindi ka na lang pambahay ngayon...”

 

To celebrate International Day of Rural Women, Oxfam, Pambansang Koalisyon ng Kababihan sa Kanayunan (PKKK), and Dakila – Philippines Collective for Modern Heroism brought together women leaders and entrepreneurs, mostly from rural communities, at the Women’s Market on October 15, 2016 at the Eastwood City Walk 2.

 

A diverse selection of homegrown and handcrafted products such as banig, organic lechon, salted egg, and coffee were showcased in the one-day event. There was also a special program that featured guest speakers, performers, and a short documentary film.

 

One of the local entrepreneurs in the market was Conchita “Conching” Masin, a 72-year old proud farmer from Davao Oriental. She is the chair of Agraryong Reporma Samahang Kababaihan (ARSK) -  a local group of women agrarian reform beneficiaries. The group sold home made products, one of which was the Nay Ching Coconut Corn Coffee, a drink made from grated coconut meat, corn grits, and coffee beans. Masin said it went through a lot of improvements until the formula was perfected.

 

Conching beamed with pride as she sold her coffee. “Nagkaroon ng patunay na ang kababaihan hindi lang empowered kundi [may] sariling patago na potential,” she said.(This is proof that women are not only empowered but have innate potential.)

HAND MADE. Nay Conching from Davao Oriental proudly displays her very own Coconut Corn Coffee at the Women's Market - a marketplace of homegrown and handcrafted merchandise. Photo by Denise Nacnac/Rappler  

Rural women

 

In the Philippines, rural women comprise 43% of the agricultural labor force. According to Oxfam, this means women are essential to ensuring food security. Oxfam adds that rural women need to be supported by the government and by the public. This will improve agricultural productivity and promote gender equality.

 

In an industry where the contribution of women is often downplayed, there is a need to provide venues to highlight their role and value in agricultural economies.

 

For Isabel Nepomuceno, participating in the Women’s Market is a big deal. Nepomuceno is a member of the Sta. Cruz Duck Raisers Association (SCDRA), which advocates sustainable livelihood and good community rapport.

 

Nakakatulong din kasi nagkakaroon ng malawak na pag-iisip yung aking mga kasamahan tulad halimbawa nadadala sa ibang lugar yung produkto namin. So sila, nagsusumikap na ipagpatuloy,” she said. (It helps because my colleagues get to have a broader outlook by way of bringing our products to other places. So they continue to exert effort.) (Read: The women of Baruya: Invisible food producers)

EGG-CELENT. Isabela Nepomuceno from Eastern Samar sells her fresh salted egg and balut at the Women's Market - a marketplace of homegrown and handcrafted merchandise

 

A typhoon Yolanda survivor, Nepomuceno mentioned she was confronted by the question “Paano kami babangon?” (How will we rise?) after the tragedy. Along with some members of the community, she resorted to catching crab and raising ducks after the calamity washed out their coconut trees which she used to make nipa products. Like Conching, she is grateful that they had a venue like the Women’s Market to promote their products. (READ: The rural women’s wishlist)

 

To strengthen and connect

 

Women’s Market is an annual project by Oxfam, Dakila, and PKKK under the Women’s Economic Leadership Program that advocates for the empowerment of women.

 

Rebecca Miranda, the president of PKKK, believes that it is important to acknowledge the contribution of rural women in the development of their communities.

 

Justin Morgan, Oxfam Philippines country director said the event was also an opportunity for women to connect with each other. “Women come together and they connect with other women entrepreneurs. That in itself is often quite empowering and supporting because they know that they’re going through these things together,” said Morgan.

 

Morgan hopes the market will create long-term connections among the participants. He acknowledged all the participants and their hard work to put the market together. “The leadership and the ideas and the entrepreneurship solely come from the women that we’re here with today.”

 

Local women entrepreneurs like Conching and Isabela hope that local consumers will continue to support their cause and their products. With a determined look on her face, Conching appealed to the public: “matuto tayong mag-appreciate, mag-recognize ng sarili nating produkto.” (Let’s learn to appreciate and know our own products.) – Rappler.com

 

Denise Nacnac is a Rappler Intern and a student at the Ateneo de Manila University. 


Typhoon Lawin: Cagayan prepares for 'worst-case scenario'

0
0

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS. Cagayan officials meet on preparations for Typhoon Lawin (Haima) on October 18, 2016. Photo courtesy of the Cagayan Provincial Information Office

CAGAYAN, Philippines – The provincial government of Cagayan is preparing for a "worst-case scenario" as it braces for what is feared to be the strongest typhoon to ever hit the province.

Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba on Tuesday afternoon, October 18, met with  disaster, rescue, and weather agencies to discuss preparations for the expected landfall of Typhoon Lawin (Haima) over the province early Thursday morning, October 20.

In an interview, Cagayan provincial capitol spokesperson Rogie Sending said the governor has ordered preparations for a worst-case scenario.

"Kanina sabi ng PAGASA, ito pa siguro 'yung pinakamalakas na bagyo na tatama sa history ng Cagayan. Kaya ang pinaghahandaan ay ang worst-case scenario," Sending said.

(The state weather bureau PAGASA said this could be the worst typhoon ever to hit Cagayan in its history. So we are really preparing for the worst-case scenario.)

In its 5 pm bulletin, PAGASA warned that signal number 4 or 5 might be raised in Cagayan (including the Calayan Group of Islands), Apayao, Ilocos Norte, and northern Isabela on Wednesday night, October 19.

Sending said the police, military, and Task Force Lingkod Cagayan will begin the forced evacuation of residents in low-lying and coastal areas on Wednesday.

The water levels of several tributaries of the Cagayan River remain high because of rains brought by Typhoon Karen (Sarika).

"Habang maaga pa lang ay mag-forced evacuation na sa mga low-lying areas. Malaki na nga 'yung ilog ay inaasahang lalaki pa lalo dahil after ng Bagyong Karen ay ito na naman si Bagyong Lawin," Sending said.

(While it's still early, residents in low-lying areas should be forced to evacuate. The water level in the rivers is already high because of Typhoon Karen and here comes Typhoon Lawin.)

Sending said rescue equipment, relief goods, and disaster and rescue teams will be pre-positioned by Wednesday morning.

He added that the Cagayan governor also asked for the use of the newly-built typhoon-resilient buildings and churches as evacuation centers.

Classes in all levels and all offices, both public and private, on Wednesday have been suspended.

The Cagayan towns of Gonzaga, Baggao, Santa Ana, Gattaran, and Aparri, in particular, have been directed to prepare for the typhoon. – Rappler.com

#WalangPasok: Class suspensions, Wednesday, October 19

0
0

What's the weather like in your area? Report the situation through Rappler's Agos or tweet us at @rapplerdotcom. 

Please refresh this page for updates.

MANILA, Philippines – Here is a list of areas where classes have been suspended for Wednesday, October 19, due to Typhoon Lawin (Haima).

  • Ilocos Norte - all levels (public and private)
  • Apayao - all levels (public and private)
  • Cagayan - all levels (public and private)
  • Isabela - all levels (public and private)
  • Licuan-Baay, Abra - all levels (public and private)
  • Baguio City - preschool to high school (public and private)
  • Benguet - preschool to high school (public and private)

Not on the list? Help us crowdsource class suspensions by posting in the comments section or tweeting @rapplerdotcom.

For more information: When are classes cancelled or suspended?  Rappler.com

#WalangPasok: Class suspensions, Thursday, October 20

0
0

What's the weather like in your area? Report the situation through Rappler's Agos or tweet us at @rapplerdotcom. 

Please refresh this page for updates.

For the latest updates on Typhoon Lawin (Haima), go to our live blog

MANILA, Philippines – Here is a list of areas where classes have been suspended for Thursday, October 20, due to Super Typhoon Lawin (Haima).

There are automatic class suspensions due to storm warning signals:

  • Signal No. 1: Cancellation or suspension of classes at the pre-school level in the affected area
  • Signal No. 2: Cancellation or suspension of classes at the pre-school, elementary, and secondary level in the affected area
  • Signal No. 3 or higher: Cancellation or suspension of classes at the pre-school, elementary, and secondary and tertiary levels, including graduate schools in the affected area

Local government announcements

  • Ilocos Region
    • San Fernando, La Union - all levels, public and private
  • Cagayan Valley
    • Isabela - all levels, public and private
  • Cordillera Administrative Region
    • Baguio City - all levels, public and private
  • Central Luzon
    • Nueva Ecija - all levels, public and private
  • Southern Luzon
    • Batangas - all levels, public and private

Not on the list? Help us crowdsource class suspensions by posting in the comments section or tweeting @rapplerdotcom.

For more information: When are classes cancelled or suspended? – Rappler.com

Storm surge advisories up in Cagayan, Isabela due to Lawin

0
0

For the latest updates on Typhoon Lawin (Haima), go to our live blog

MANILA, Philippines – Project NOAH raised storm surge advisories for parts of Cagayan and Isabela on Wednesday, October 19, as Typhoon Lawin (Haima) intensified into a super typhoon.

Cagayan and Isabela have both been placed under signal no. 5 – the highest tropical cyclone warning signal.

Several municipalities in the two provinces are under Storm Surge Advisory 1, which means there could be storm surges at least two meters or 6 feet, 5 inches high. (READ: How to know if storm surge threatens your area)

The following, in particular, are affected:

  • Maconacon, Isabela
  • Divilacan, Isabela
  • San Pablo, Isabela
  • Gonzaga, Cagayan
  • Palanan, Cagayan
  • Santa Ana, Cagayan
  • Baggao, Cagayan
  • Lal-lo, Cagayan
  • Gattaran, Cagayan

For those living in Isabela, check this simulation map from Project NOAH to see if your area will be affected:

Here is the simulation map for those living in Cagayan:

How to interpret the map

Different colors in the map represent different heights of flooding which could be caused by storm surges.

In a press briefing on Wednesday, Project NOAH executive director Mahar Lagmay said affected residents can use the map to determine where to go next if their area would be affected by storm surges.

As a point of reference so people can visualize the height of a storm surge, Project NOAH uses boxing icon and senator Manny Pacquiao as an example. Pacquiao's height is 1.66 meters or 5 feet, 4 inches.

Red stands for high storm surge hazard, which means 1.5-meter floods or floods that will reach or go beyond the head. This is also the same level as Pacquiao's nose, according to Project NOAH.

Orange means medium hazard or 0.5-meter flooding – water levels up to the thigh until the head. This is also the same level as Pacquiao's waist to nose.

Yellow means low hazard or knee-high floods.

If your locality is not classified under the 3 colors, your area is deemed safe from storm surges.

Refresh this page for the next storm surge advisory from Project NOAH. – Rappler.com

Live: Super Typhoon Lawin

0
0

MANILA, Philippines - Super typhoon Lawin (international name: Haima) is expected to make landfall in Northern Luzon packing winds of more than 220 kph.

The provinces of Isabela and Cagayan could bear the brunt of the typhoon's force. However, nearby provinces of Ilocos Norte, Apayao, Kalinga, Ilocos Sur, Abra, Mt Province, Ifugao and the Calayan Group of Islands will also experience heavy rains and strong winds. 

Watch Rappler's live coverage of super typhoon Lawin beginning Wednesday 6:30 PM, October 19. Bookmark this page and refresh for updates.

Get the latest #WeatherAlert and report the weather in your area on the Agos Alert Map using Twitter, Facebook or SMS.

Tweet or post on Facebook critical information with the hashtag #LawinPH. For SMS, send ReliefPH to 2929 for Smart and Sun subscribers and 0995-5371024 for Globe and TNT subscribers.  - Rappler.com 

 

Filipino Americans and the US elections: What's on their mind?

0
0

MANILA, Philippines – In a 2013 demographics study, Pew Research Center identified Filipinos as the second largest Asian American group in the US, numbering more than 3.4 million. 

With the US election season now in full swing, the political presence of Asian Americans has also grown significantly, as shown by the increase in the number of registered voters and candidates for various local and state positions.

The 2016 National Asian American Survey (NAAS), a scientific and nonpartisan effort looking into the opinions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, was released on October 5, revealing some interesting findings about this fast-rising cultural group and their thoughts about the US elections, the candidates, and key US issues.

Let’s take a look at what the NAAS survey reveals about Filipino American (Fil-Am) voters. 

(Note: In this article, the term "leaners" are respondents who said they are more likely to support one candidate/party over the other, but have not yet decided to fully back that candidate/party.)

1. Most Fil-Ams identify themselves as Democrats

When asked about which party they identify themselves with, most Filipino Americans said they were Democrats. A big chunk also identified themselves as neither Democrats nor Republicans.

However, the study also showed that among Fil-Ams, identification with the Republican Party appears to be increasing slightly and steadily over time. In 2008, 18% of registered Filipino Americans identified as Republican; this proportion has increased to 25% in 2016. Registered Filipino Americans are also less likely to identify as non-partisan compared now (43% in 2008 and 31% in 2012). 

 

2. Most Fil-Ams have favorable impressions of Clinton, unfavorable impressions of Trump

When asked about favorability towards the two parties, most Fil-Ams said they have somewhat favorable to very favorable opinions of Hillary Clinton. Favorability with Trump, meanwhile, is the complete opposite, with 62% saying they hold unfavorable impressions of him.

 

 

3. In the primaries, Fil-Ams voted mostly for Clinton, but they also showed the highest support for Trump among Asian Americans

The results of the 2016 primaries and caucuses showed most Filipino Americans are solidly backing Clinton, with 45% reporting to have voted for her.

But Trump also trailed close behind at 30%, the highest level of support for Trump among Asian Americans.

 

4. Presidential choice: Fil-Ams solidly backing Clinton

There are slight changes when it comes to the actual 2016 elections as most Fil-Ams still said that they will be supporting Clinton.

Support for Trump is down to 25% but is still the highest percentage of Trump support among Asian American groups.

 

 

 

5. Stand on issues, from Obamacare to Syria

The NAAS also asked about registered Asian American voters' thoughts on key issues and policies, including the Affordable Health Care Act (aka Obamacare), banning Muslims from entering the US, and accepting refugees from war-torn Syria, among others.

Here are the results:

{source} <iframe src="//e.infogr.am/92615999-97e0-4136-89f6-e4c0be7a1a36?src=embed" title="Views on Policies" width="100%" height="4644" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none;"></iframe><div style="padding:8px 0;font-family:Arial!important;font-size:13px!important;line-height:15px!important;text-align:center;border-top:1px solid #dadada;margin:0 30px"><a target="_blank" href="https://infogr.am/92615999-97e0-4136-89f6-e4c0be7a1a36" style="color:#989898!important;text-decoration:none!important;">Views on Policies</a><br><a style="color:#989898!important;text-decoration:none!important;" href="http://charts.infogr.am/bar-chart?utm_source=embed_bottom&utm_medium=seo&utm_campaign=bar_chart" target="_blank">Create bar charts</a></div> {/source}

According to the survey results, most Fil-Ams support the health care law; increased federal assistance for college students; stricter emission standards; and ensuring equal rights for African Americans. However, at 22%, Fil-Ams have the highest percentage of opposition among Asian American voters in giving equal rights to black Americans.

Meanwhile, most registered Fil-Am voters oppose banning  Muslims from entering the US and legalizing marijuana use. The poll results also showed that 41% of Fil-Ams oppose accepting Syrian refugees, the highest percentage of opposition among Asian Americans.

6. Fil-Ams are the most engaged in political discussions on social media

Fil-Ams live up to the Filipinos' social media savvy reputation, as the survey results showed that among Asian American groups, they are most likely to engage in political discussions on social media sites such as Facebook.

{source} <iframe src="//e.infogr.am/9faaf7d7-1d35-4f6b-9c9a-97d4b537e3bd?src=embed" title="Political engagement on social media" width="550" height="667" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="border:none;"></iframe><div style="padding:8px 0;font-family:Arial!important;font-size:13px!important;line-height:15px!important;text-align:center;border-top:1px solid #dadada;margin:0 30px"><a target="_blank" href="https://infogr.am/9faaf7d7-1d35-4f6b-9c9a-97d4b537e3bd" style="color:#989898!important;text-decoration:none!important;">Political engagement on social media</a><br><a style="color:#989898!important;text-decoration:none!important;" href="http://charts.infogr.am/bar-chart?utm_source=embed_bottom&utm_medium=seo&utm_campaign=bar_chart" target="_blank">Create bar charts</a></div> {/source}

7. Low election contact

Despite their growing policital participation, the NAAS also revealed that very few Asian Americans report being contacted by the parties about the election.

Overall, 70% of Asian Americans said the parties have never approached them. Among Filipino Americans, only 30% reported to have been talked to about the elections by the two parties.

According to the report, the low voter contact may be due to different reasons including: (1) the lower overall rates of voter registration among Asian Americans, (2) because effective outreach to Asian Americans involves multilingual support, and (3) Asian Americans’ concentration in states that are not swing states – states that could go to either Clinton or Trump – in the presidential elections.

The 2016 NAAS is a nationally representative survey of 2,238 Asian American and 305 Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) adult interviews conducted by telephone from August 10 to September 29, 2016. This particular report focuses on the 1,694 Asian American and 261 NHPI registered voters who took the survey, with an overall margin of error of +/- 3.5%.

The 2016 US presidential election is on November 8, 2016. – Rappler.com

SIGN UP: DSWD needs volunteers for #LawinPH relief packing efforts

0
0

For the latest updates on Typhoon Lawin (Haima), go to our live blog

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is appealing to volunteers to help with the packing of additional relief goods for those affected by Super Typhoon Lawin (Haima).

The DSWD, the lead agency for disaster response, said on Wednesday, October 19, that it is looking for volunteers who live near the packing center:

DSWD National Resource Operations Center
Barangay 195, NAIA Chapel Road
Pasay City

Sign up here if you or your organization wish to help in preparing the relief goods. You can choose to volunteer under 3 shifts:

9 am - 4 pm

4 pm - 12 am

1 am - 9 am

{source}

<iframe src="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScU1NRH-QSGZYlV5j9fAkVcqd-eD4Km0-JOD8elSFXIXJuyVg/viewform?embedded=true" width="760" height="500" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0">Naglo-load...</iframe>

{/source}

 

The DSWD said there is no shortage of supplies, but the agency anticipates more demand and will need help with packing.

Social Welfare and Development Secretary Judy Taguiwalo earlier called on the public to be prepared and evacuate when needed. She also gave assurances that the DSWD prepositioned relief goods in affected areas.

"Magtulungan po tayo sa ating mga komunidad. Huwag tayong magkanya-kanya sa panahong dapat ay sama-sama," Taguiwalo said.

(Let's help each other in our communities. It's a time for solidarity.) 

The DSWD's prepositioned goods include food and non-food items such as ready-to-eat rice tuna, bottled mineral water, mats, blankets, malong, mosquito nets, water jugs, and clothing.

As of Wednesday afternoon, the agency's stockpile and standby funds amount to at least P1.4 billion. There is also a total of 508,358 family food packs amounting to about P183.6 million and available food and non-food items worth P565.8 million. 

The response cluster of the DSWD is also monitoring calls for help through the following channels:

Twitter:

Tweet using the hashtag #ReliefPH

SMS: 

Text RELIEFPH <NAME> <LOCATION> <HELP NEEDED> to 2929 (Smart and Sun)

Text to 0995-5371024 (Globe)

Project Agos map:

Plot relief-related reports on the Agos map

– Rappler.com


Ilocos Norte braces for Super Typhoon Lawin

0
0

RESCUE EQUIPMENT. A rubber boat on standby at the Ilocos Norte Capitol. Photo from provincial government

For the latest updates on Typhoon Lawin (Haima), go to our live blog

MANILA, Philippines – Ilocos Norte is among the provinces which implemented preemptive evacuation ahead of the landfall of Super Typhoon Lawin (Haima).

In a statement on Wednesday, October 19, the Ilocos Norte provincial government said its Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) evacuated residents from areas prone to floods and landslides.

Batac City and towns in the south of Ilocos Norte were also put on high alert, according to the provincial government.

"Residents should make sure there's enough food for 2 to 3 days, and at the same time mag-charge na, bumili ng baterya o kandila (they should charge their gadgets, buy batteries or candles)," Provincial Information Officer June Arvin Gudoy was quoted as saying.

Lawin is expected to cross Ilocos Norte and Apayao after it makes landfall in the Cagayan-Isabela area later around midnight.

Residents of Cagayan and Isabela also evacuated ahead of the super typhoon's arrival.

As of 5 pm on Wednesday, Cagayan and Isabela are among the provinces under signal number 5, while Ilocos Norte is included in the list of areas under signal number 4.

PAGASA has warned that Lawin could bring massive destruction to areas in its path. – Rappler.com

Kerwin Espinosa now held at Abu Dhabi’s Al Wathba Prison

0
0

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – The extradition of Roland “Kerwin” Espinosa, Jr. could take a week, said Ambassador Constancio R. Vingno, Jr., who also confirmed to The Filipino Times that the alleged drug lord has been transferred to Abu Dhabi’s Al Wathba Prison pending completion of an ongoing investigation by the emirate’s Chief Prosecutor’s Office.

“Sa tingin ko baka magtagal ng kaunti, baka one or two weeks. Kung wala namang kaso laban sa kanya, pauuwiin na sya, paper work na lang yun,” Vingno said in an exclusive phone interview. (I think it will take a while, around one or two weeks. If there is case against him, he will be sent home, with some paperwork.)

Vingno said he went to Al Wathba Prison this morning to see Espinosa but was told by the jail’s authorities that visitation is not allowed at the moment.

Vingno said he went to the detention center with the 3 officials of the Philippine National Police (PNP). Among them was Senior Superintendent Albert Ferro – head of the PNP Anti-illegal Drugs Group – who had informed operatives of Abu Dhabi’s Criminal Investigation Division (CID) about Espinosa’s whereabouts in the city that led to his arrest on Sunday, October 16.

Apparently the 3 PNP officials were the ones who would bring Espinosa back to the Philippines.

Wednesdays are regular embassy visitation days at Al Wathba Prison where about 150 overseas Filipino workers are serving time for offenses ranging from absconding of labor contracts to drugs, unpaid loans and immorality.

If his schedule allows, Vingno goes to the jail facility to check the incarcerated Filipinos state of being.

“Ginamit ko na nga yung regular visitation day to see him (Espinosa) pero di pa rin kami pinayagan. Hindi daw naming pwedeng kausapin kasi iniimbestigahan pa sya,” Vingno said. (I used the regular visitation day but we were still not allowed. We're told that we're not allowed to talk to him because he's still under investigation.)

He added, “Baka umuwi muna ang mga PNP officials. Pag naayos na ang paperwork at saka na lang sila babalik para madala nila siya sa Pilipinas.” (The PNP officials might go home first. Once all paper works are done, they'll just just go back to bring him back to the Philippines.)

The investigation is standard procedure to determine whether Espinosa had violated any UAE laws during his stay. If cleared, his deportation will be processed, officials said. – Rappler.com

This story was republished with permission from The Filipino Times of the United Arab Emirates

Tuguegarao mayor: Lawin damaged some evacuation centers

0
0

For the latest updates on Typhoon Lawin (Haima), go to our live blog

TUGUEGARAO CITY, Philippines – Several evacuation centers in this city have been damaged by strong winds, Mayor Jefferson Soriano told Rappler shortly after midnight on Thursday, October 20.

In a phone interview, Soriano said the roofs of some evacuation centers in the barangay (village) of Carig were blown off, leaving the evacuees "unsafe."

But the mayor said they could not go immediately to the affected shelters.

"We tried to go out a while ago, but the winds are really strong," Soriano said in a mix of Filipino and English.

Whistling winds have been persistent since 9 pm on Wednesday, October 19. 

Soriano said Lawin, which hit land in Cagayan as a super typhoon but has since been downgraded to a typhoon, could be the worst cyclone he has ever felt in Tuguegarao.

Some residents in the city and in nearby towns are reporting that their houses were damaged.

Benjie De Yro, a resident of Barangay Annafunan West, told Rappler that his neighbors' houses have been affected.

"Dami na ag nawalan ng bubong dito sa Annafunan. Yung isa, totally wiped out ang bubong, binutas ng sanga ng narra bubong ko," De Yro said early Thursday.

(A lot of people have lost the roofs of their houses. One was totally wiped out. A narra branch pierced mine.) – Rappler.com

Typhoon Lawin: Over 14,000 people in 136 evacuation centers

0
0

EVACUATED. More than 700 residents living along the shoreline take refuge in Alcala Gymnasium after preemptive evacuation due to Super Typhoon Lawin in Alcala town, Cagayan. Photo by Inoue Jaena/Rappler

For the latest updates on Typhoon Lawin (Haima), go to our live blog

MANILA, Philippines – As of Thursday morning, October 20, a total of 14,895 persons have been evacuated due to Super Typhoon Lawin (Haima), which has since weakened into a typhoon.

This translates to 3,825 families who are now inside 136 evacuation centers in 5 affected regions: the Cordillera Administrative Region, Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, and the Bicol Region. 

In its 5 am update, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said Lawin has affected a total of 13,428 families or 61,126 persons in 118 barangays (villages).

Meanwhile, a total of 601 passengers were stranded in two seaports in the Bicol Region.

Lawin had made landfall in Peñablanca, Cagayan at 11 pm on Wednesday, October 19. 

On Thursday morning, the DSWD reported on the status of its stockpile and standby funds:

  • 270,514 family food packs
  • P689.66 million standby funds
  • P1.04 billion total amount of stockpile and standby funds

The department had appealed to volunteers to help with packing additional relief goods for those affected by Lawin. (SIGN UP: DSWD needs volunteers for #LawinPH relief packing efforts) – Rappler.com

Some La Union coastal dwellers stay put as Lawin hits

0
0

LAWIN'S ONSLAUGHT. A look at the Bauang River in La Union. Photo by Patty Pasion/Rappler

LA UNION, Philippines – Some residents of coastal communities in La Union did not evacuate despite the heavy rain and strong winds brought by Super Typhoon Lawin (Haima).

Lawin has since been downgraded into a typhoon, but remains strong.

Civic group leader Dexter Estigoy said there were locals in Barangay Taberna who went to fish at 8 pm on Wednesday, October 19, despite being warned in advance that there could be storm surges. The fishermen returned safely at 11 pm before the strong rain and winds peaked.  

Norberto Herado, whose house lies before the West Philippine Sea, chose to stay inside their home because no one would be able to guard it.  

Local authorities ordered their evacuation at 5 pm on Wednesday, 6 hours before Lawin made landfall in the province of Cagayan.

"Nung lumakas na ng alas dose pasado ng madaling araw, [umalis] na ang iba. Nananatili [kami], lipat na kami ng bahay, sa harap kasi namin may malaking bahay, lumipat na kami doon," he said. 

(When the [typhoon] hit harder after midnight, some of our neighbors evacuated. We stayed in our area, we just moved to a larger house beside ours.) 

Herado added that they had second thoughts about staying when local authorities announced there would be a storm surge, but they opted to stay and just monitor the situation.

{source}

<blockquote class="twitter-video" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">LOOK: West PH Sea from the view here at Bauang, LU. Locals said some were able to fish last night at 8pm and back by 11pm <a href="https://twitter.com/rapplerdotcom">@rapplerdotcom</a> <a href="https://t.co/e1RnWwbDT1">pic.twitter.com/e1RnWwbDT1</a></p>&mdash; Patty Pasion (@pattypasion) <a href="https://twitter.com/pattypasion/status/788900823698857989">October 20, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

{/source}

 

According to the La Union Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), some residents of coastal barangays in San Fernando also remained in their homes.  

Strong rain and powerful winds swept through La Union for roughly 8 hours as Lawin made landfall in Cagayan at 11 pm, Wednesday.

{source}

<blockquote class="twitter-video" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Intense winds can be felt here at San Fernando, La Union <a href="https://twitter.com/rapplerdotcom">@rapplerdotcom</a> <a href="https://t.co/a6NlxkSCtW">pic.twitter.com/a6NlxkSCtW</a></p>&mdash; Patty Pasion (@pattypasion) <a href="https://twitter.com/pattypasion/status/788763545253007360">October 19, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

{/source}

 

 As of 6 am on Thursday, the PDRRMO said more than 1,600 families evacuated but there are no reports of casualties. – Rappler.com

Viewing all 3254 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images