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[OPINION] Running to stand still: On U2 fans and the war on drugs

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“Talagang dapat na patayin 'yung mga adik na yan. Hirap lang sa bahay namin, di sang-ayon 'yung nanay at tatay ko. Nabrainwash na ata ng media.”

(I do think those addicts need to be killed. At our house, though, my mom and dad don't agree with the killings. They've probably been brainwashed by the media.) 

It was 1 am, and I was attempting to sleep away the post-U2 concert traffic jam at the Philippine Arena. A pair of fellow concertgoers parked next to our car, however, were talking quite loudly.

Alam mo, tama ka eh. Malala na talaga, lalo na dun sa province namin. 'Pag hindi pinatay 'yung mga 'yan, mamamatay tayong lahat.” 

(You know, you're right. Things have really gotten bad, especially in our province. If they're not killed, we'll get killed.)

As I tried to go back to sleep, I wondered if they really were U2 fans. Didn’t they know that the band they had just listened to has been exhorting its fans to sign up with Amnesty International and Greenpeace for decades? Didn’t they know that this band draws inspiration from active non-violence icons like Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela, and Mahatma Gandhi? More to the point, didn’t they know that many of U2’s socio-political songs espouse empathy, mercy, and compassion? (READ: U2 dedicates 'Ultraviolet' to Maria Ressa, PH women)

Their song “Running to Stand Still” is a case in point. The  phrase “running to stand still” originally came to U2 frontman Bono when he asked about his brother’s business, which was in dire straits in the 80s. Bono then used it to describe the tragic desperation of people who are addicted to heroin.

In Bono’s words, “There was a couple living there (i.e. the Seven Towers housing project referenced in the song), both of whom were junkies. The guy used to pay for his habit by doing what was known as a run to Amsterdam, where he would pick up the heroin and strap it to his body and bring it back. If he was stopped, he would go to jail for 10 years but if he made it, he’d be able to afford his and his wife’s habit...They used to do it by boat, these all-or-nothing runs. The tragedy is he was a decent man at the heart of it, made a slave to his drug of choice.” (READ: U2's Bono to Duterte: 'You can't compromise on human rights')

Why do people get addicted to drugs? The physician Gabor Mate, who has conducted extensive research on addiction for decades, points to emotional pain as the root cause of the problem. Mate asserts that addictions “can all be traced to a painful experience. A hurt is at the center of all addictive behaviors…the wound may not be as deep and the ache not as excruciating, and it may even be entirely hidden – but it’s there.”

At the macro level, the sociologist and philosopher Jurgen Habermas traces contemporary crises like drug addiction to the complexity brought about by what he calls the colonization of  the lifeworld (i.e., our everyday life.) This happens when rules that originally apply to the state and the economy are extended to the lifeworld. Hence, when love and friendship  are treated like commodities and are purchased rather than given freely, we risk the occurrence of countless types of aberrations like addiction and other crises of social integration. Put another way, try fueling a diesel engine with unleaded gasoline. 

Whether we view the ongoing war on drugs from the lens of U2, Mate, or Habermas, clearly, killing drug addicts is tantamount to running to stand still. The body count and the number of buy-bust operations may continue to go up, but we would be nowhere near the solution if we confine the KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) of the war on drugs to the number of suspects killed and the number of buy-bust operations completed. (READ: '1 over 100': Robredo calls Duterte's drug war a 'failure')

As we start 2020, my new year’s wish for our government is for it to adopt an inverted understanding of running to stand still. In place of the illusory act of moving forward by keeping score of drug-related arrests and killings, may it embrace this phrase as an invitation to stand still and make time to reflect, discuss, and deliberate with those who hold contrarian views. (READ: Colombian ex-president to Duterte: Force won't solve drug war

Better yet, drawing inspiration from the premium that the political theorist Hannah Arendt assigns to the vita activa (i.e. the active life or the activity of discussing issues that concern the community with the community) as a fulcrum for the vita contemplativa (i.e. the contemplative life or the activity of solitude and reflection), may government efforts to wage war on drugs discard the final solution of violence in favor of a communal inquiry that is powered by the unforce force of the better argument. 

I believe that despite the proliferation of trolls and fake news, this communal inquiry is innate in the Filipino. After all, as my philosophy teacher once put it, in the word “katotohanan” (truth) are 3 instructive terms:  “katoto” (friend), “toto” (the abbreviated form of “totoo” which means true) and “hanan” (a pun on “nahan” which means where). In other words, to find the true solution to any problem, one must engage in dialogue rather than in monologue. (READ: UN expert in PH: Punitive measures worsen drug problem)

If this should come to pass, perhaps in the not too distant future you and I might eventually overhear the following instead: “Talagang 'di pagpatay sa mga adik ang sagot sa problema ng droga. Tulungan natin ang media at ang gobyerno para sugpuin ang sanhi nito sa pamamagitan ng repleksyon at deliberasyon.” 

(Killing addicts really isn't the solution to the drug problem. Let's help the media and the government to stem the cause of the problem through reflection and deliberation.) – Rappler.com 

Von Katindoy has been a U2 fan since the 80s. He teaches philosophy at Ateneo De Manila University and does project management work for UBQTY, Inc.


Filipinos online offer prayers for world peace on Feast Day of Black Nazarene

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MANILA, Philippines – As thousands of Filipino Catholics walked through the streets of Manila for this year's Traslacion, netizens offered prayers for the rest of the world on Thursday, January 9, the Feast Day of the Black Nazarene. 

The image of the Black Nazarene, crowned with thorns and bearing a cross, was brought to Manila by Augustinian priests in 1607. It is also believed to have been partially burnt and blackened when the galleon carrying it caught fire on a transpacific voyage from Mexico.

World peace

In light of tensions between the United States and Iran after President Donald Trump ordered the killing of top Iranian general Qassim Suleimani, netizens prayed for world peace. 

 

 

 

On Wednesday morning, January 8, Iran rained “more than a dozen” ballistic missiles on Iraqi bases housing US military troops, and warned of more drastic action should the US respond with yet another attack. (READ: Iran fires missiles at U.S. troop bases in Iraq

In his midnight sermon to thousands of Black Nazarene devotees at the Quirino Grandstand at the Luneta on Thursday, Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle called on the faithful to pray for peace in the Middle East, and for the safety of thousands of Filipinos in danger of getting caught in the middle of the brewing conflict in the region. 

Praying for Australia

Some netizens also offered prayers for Australia as catastrophic bushfires ripped through swaths of Australia since September 2019, burning land roughly double the size of Belgium and causing thousands to flee from their homes.

 

 

The raging bushfires also caused the evacuation of at least 300 Filipinos residing in East Gippsland, Victoria. Ecologists expressed fear that months of deadly bushfires might have pushed several species to extinction, with millions of animals burned in the fires.

Hoping to extend help, several Filipino-Australian communities have led relief drives to those affected by the deadly bushfires. (READ: #ReliefPH: Help communities affected by Australia’s raging bushfires

Filipinos also expressed their personal petitions of good health, blessings, protection and guidance this year to the Black Nazarene. Some also  prayed for the safety of the devotees and policemen at the Traslacion. 

 

 

Others showed their gratitude to the Black Nazarene for answered prayers in the past years. 

 

 

 

This feast is considered as the biggest showcase of faith among Catholics in Asia’s most predominantly Catholic country. 

How about you? What are your prayers to the Black Nazarene this year? Share your answers on the comments here or tweet and tag @MovePH and use the hashtag #Traslacion2020. – Rappler.com 

Volunteers share food and water to tired devotees during Traslacion 2020

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SHARING BLESSINGS. A group shares their blessings by distributing water and food pack to the devotees during this year's Feast of the Black Nazarene on Thursday, January 9. Photo by Samantha Bagayas

MANILA, Philippines – In a sea of about 2.3 million devotees, you can find Espi Abanne, 47, and her group of friends handing out water and food packs near the Quezon Bridge during the procession of the image of the Black Nazarene on Thursday, January 9.

This act of kindness is their way of sharing their blessings as devotees express their faith during the annual Feast of the Black Nazarene, which culminates with the Traslacion.

The Feast of the Black Nazaene is the biggest showcase of faith in Asia’s most predominantly Catholic country as thousands of devotees gather to participate in the said procession to show their devotion and thanksgiving. 

Dubbed the Paredes chapter, Abanne and her group of friends have been handing out these food packs and bottled water for the past 5 years during the Traslacion to help tired devotees.

“Parang share lang ng blessings ganoon….. Kasi, siyempre, 'yung mga namamanata 'di ba napapagod sila (It’s like our way of sharing our blessings... Of course, devotees get tired),” Abanne said.

In the past, Abanne and her group of friends would go to Mass while their husbands tried to get as close as possible to the Black Nazarene during Traslacion. Their family and children later joined them and decided to hand out food to devotees

“Nagsimula sa mga boys yan, dati pa sila eh. Talagang kami, yung mga girls, ano parang dito na lang sumama kasi dati puro silang salang lahat (This started when the boys would always try to get close to the Black Nazarene. For us girls, this is where we join the Traslacion),” Abanne added.

When they first started, they only handed pieces of bread to devotees until her friends decided to give food packs by pitching in cups of rice, food, and other needs.

“Dati pa-ano lang kami mga tinapay ganoon tapos ngayon kanin na (Before we only gave bread, now we give meals),” Abanne said.

During this year’s Traslacion, Abanne is praying for the health and safety of the Filipino.

“Kung ano yung dinadasal mo sa araw-araw, yun lang din naman…Kaligtasan para sa bawat isa (It’s just like what you pray for every day… Safety for all),” she said.

Meanwhile in Arlegui Street, another group of kind-hearted individuals also handed out free water in plastics bags for the devotees of the Black Nazarene.

GIVING BACK. In a place found along Arlegui St, kind-hearted people distributed water in plastic bags for devotees participating in this year's Traslacion on Thursday, January 9. Photo by Samantha Bagayas

During the Traslacion, devotees try to come as close as possible to the Black Nazarene, believing it could bring miracles into their lives. (READ: Things to know about the Feast of the Black Nazarene

For this year, the procession left Quirino Grandstand in Manila at 4:30 am Thursday, January 9 – more than an hour ahead of the announced schedule. It went really quick when it passed the Manila Hotel and crossed Roxas Boulevard in a matter of minutes.

It also had one major change this year as the Traslacion passed through the Ayala Bridge instead of the traditional Jones Bridge. (READ: Faster Traslacion 2020 frustrates devotees)

 This caused some Catholic devotees to express their frustration as the implemented changes deprived them of their tradition to get near the andas as police blocked the icon’s carriage. – with reports from Kurt Adrian Dela Peña/Rappler.com 

TINGNAN: Iba’t ibang mukha ng debosyon sa Traslacion 2020

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DEBOSYON. Milyun-milyong deboto ang dumadayo sa lungsod ng Manila taun-taon upang makalahok sa prusisyon ng Itim na Nazareno. Lahat ng litrato mula kay Cris Vilchez/The Communicator

MANILA, Philippines – Samu't saring opinyon at kritisismo ang natatanggap ng Simbahang Katolika tuwing dumarating ang Traslacion sa Maynila taon-taon. Bakit nga ba sumusuong sa siksikan at panganib ang mga deboto ng Itim na Nazareno?

Ang prusisyon ng Itim na Nazareno ay ang pinakamalaking pagtatanghal ng paniniwala at debosyon sa Pilipinas, kung saan libo-libong Pilipino ang lumalahok kada taon. (BASAHIN: Faster Traslacion 2020 frustrates devotees)

Bahagi ng tradisyon sa Traslacion ang pagsubok ng mga deboto na lumapit at mahawakan ang rebulto ng Nazareno sa paniniwalang ito ay magdadala ng himala. (BASAHIN: Things to know about the Feast of the Black Nazarene)

 

Tila himalang maituturing kung pakikinggan ang kuwento ni Mang Antonio: "Pasasalamat ko 'to sa muli kong paggaling. Kasi nagkasakit ako [noon], halos patay na ako. Sinuot ko lang 'yung 'binigay sa 'kin na damit hanggang lumakas ako."

May tuberkulosis siya noon at nasa bingit ng kamatayan. Naniniwala siyang gumaling siya dahil sa Poong Nazareno. Dito nag-umpisa ang kanyang istorya ng pananampalataya.

 

Himala ring matatawag ang istorya ng isang ina na si Jovel, 20 anyos, nang ipaliwanag niya kung bakit dala-dala niya ang sanggol sa gitna ng maraming mga tao.

Aniya, pananampalatayang Kristiyano ang nagpapagaling sa kanyang anak tuwing nagkakasakit ito. May high-blood si Jovel, at naniniwalang kaya itong pagalingin ng pagsama sa taon-taong prusisyon. 

 

Nakibaybay sa Kalakhang Maynila para sa andas ng Traslacion ang Spain-based German freelance photographer na si Stephen, 54 taon. Sa Espanya aniya ay nagkakaroon lang ng ganitong kalaking pangyayari tuwing Semana Santa.

"This is a very interesting event. In Spain, we only gather like this every Semana Santa. Spanish people influenced Filipino people with Christianity, but I think they made their own way of praising," ani Stephen. 

Ilan lang ang mga ito sa mga istoryang humubog sa mga Pilipino upang maniwala at maging deboto ng Itim na Nazareno. Narito ang iba't ibang mukha ng pananampalataya mula sa prusisyon ng Itim na Nazareno noong Huwebes, Enero 9: 

Photo from Cris Valchez/The Communicator

Photo from Cris Valchez/The Communicator

Photo from Cris Valchez/The Communicator

Photo from Cris Valchez/The Communicator

Photo from Cris Valchez/The Communicator

Photo from Cris Valchez/The Communicator

Photo from Cris Valchez/The Communicator

Rappler.com 

Si Criz Vilchez ay isang Rappler Mover. Nagsusulat siya para sa The Communicator, isang pahayagan sa Polytechnic University of the Philippines. 

Filipino Catholics share story behind devotion to Black Nazarene

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MANILA, Philippines – Thousands of devotees joined the celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene on Thursday, January 9. 

The Feast of the Black Nazarene is the biggest showcase of faith in Asia’s most predominantly Catholic country. As a way to express their faith during the feast, the faithful participate in the Traslacion, a grand procession of the image of the Black Nazarene. 

For its #StoryoftheNation campaign, MovePH, the civic engagement arm of Rappler, partnered with The Varsitarian of the University of Santo Tomas and The Communicator of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, and went around the procession route to ask devotees what made their devotion strong and faithful. (READ: Filipinos online offer prayers for world peace on Feast Day of Black Nazarene)

Long-time devotees

Nanay Bing, 55, a canteen helper from Makati, said she had been participating in the Traslacion ever since she was a child. She must have attended this for almost 30 years, she said.

During this annual religious event, she prays for a complete family.

“Ang dinadalangin ko lang 'yung makasama ko lang ulit ang mga anak ko kasi hiwahiwalay nga kami dahil sa dami ng problema. Tapos, 'yung lakas ng katawan para makapagtrabaho, lakas ng loob para makayanin lahat ng pagsubok,” Nanay Bing said. 

(I am praying to be reunited with my children because we are separated due to so many problems. Then, to be given the strength to work and surpass the challenges of life.)  

 

Emelita Araw celebrated her 79th birthday while taking part in the procession. She said the devotion to the Black Nazarene was handed down by her mother. 

"Matagal na akong deboto. Kasi ka-birthday ko si Black Nazarene. Since birth, nandito na ako. Dinadala ako ng nanay ko. Kasi nung baby pa ako, sabi ng nanay ko, between life and death ako. Kaya nagdeboto siya kay Black Nazarene. Since then, every year until now, hindi kami pumapalya sa pagpunta," she said. 

(I’ve been a devotee for a long time since the Black Nazarene and I have the same birthday. Since birth, I was being brought by my mother [to the procession]. I was in a life-and-death situation when I was still a baby, that was why my mother became a devotee. Since then, we have never failed to attend this spiritual gathering every year.)

 

Devotee for a reason 

After the tragic experience of losing a child, 58-year old Corazon dela Cruz said her devotion to the Black Nazarene healed and restored her. 

"Kasi nung nanganak ako noon, patay 'yung unang anak ko. Kaya nung nanganak ako ulit, nagdirediretso na pamamanata ko. Palagi ako namamanata para sa mga anak ko," Dela Cruz said. (My firstborn died after I gave birth to her. So, after my second pregnancy, I continued my devotion to the Black Nazarene and always made sure to keep it for my children.)

 

Luzviminda Constantino's devotion to the Black Nazarene came as a family tradition that she wanted to continue. 

“Nung nawala ang asawa ko, ako na ang nagpatuloy (When my husband passed away, I continued the tradition for him),” the 69-year-old Constantino said.

This year, she asked for long life and good health for her and her grandchildren. 

 

Miracle of touch 

Though not really a prayerful and religious person, 32-year-old Karlo Laquindanum from Velasquez, Tondo, admitted he felt the call to seek and touch the Black Nazarene to show his devotion. 

He said he’d been doing this since 2000, and this year is no exemption. He was one of the thousands of devotees who made it a point to touch the Black Nazarene during Traslacion 2020.

“Inaaya lang ako hanggang sa nasanayan ko na rin na ang sarap, ang saya, lalo na kapag naglilingkod ka sa Panginoon sa pagsampa mo. Makahawak lang ako rito, gagaling ako. Makahawak lang ako rito, mga magulang ko, maayos ang buhay namin taon-taon, na huwag na kami malayo sa kaligtasan," Laquindanum said.

(I was just invited to join the procession at first until I got used to the feeling of fulfillment. It makes me happy, especially when I am able to serve the Lord by participating in the Traslacion. If I am able to touch it, I’d feel better, and my parents, we’d have a good life every year and that we would be safe.)  

 

The case is different for 52-year-old Mario Rey.

He said he decided to take the challenge of trying to go near the Black Nazarene during the Traslacion when his youngest child faced a critical condition after experiencing a 3-day fever. 

“Siyempre, ako'y namanata kasi buhat nung aking bunso ay nag 50/50. Talagang ako’y nanalig sa Kanya,” he said.  (I became a devotee because of my youngest who faced a 50/50 possibility of dying. I truly put my trust in Him.)

Act of thanksgiving

Hailing from Calamba, Laguna, 40-year-old Nestor Obin made the journey to Manila to attend this year’s Traslacion on Thursday. He did it to give thanks for the blessings he had received.

 

After being infected with tuberculosis, Manong Antonio said he remained thankful he was able to recover. 

"Pumayat ako, naging buto't balat, wala na halos. Binubuhat na lang ako, hindi na ako kumakain. Pasasalamat ko 'to sa muli kong paggaling. Kasi nagkasakit ako [noon], halos patay na ako, sinuot ko lang 'yung binigay sa'kin na damit. Hanggang lumakas ako,” he narrated. 

(I lost weight, just skin and bones. I was being lifted just to be able to eat. This is my way of thanksgiving. When I got sick, I thought I was going to die. I wore the clothes that they gave me until I got well.)

 

Manong Enrico, 64, a tricycle driver, said the Black Nazarene gives his life purpose.

 

Rappler.com 

[OPINION] Getting judged for my tattoos, and the issue of taboos in 2020

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Inside the FX during one of those quiet holiday mornings, a middle-aged woman sat beside me.  

Minutes later, I began hearing murmurs. Every commuter knows we need to be aware of our surroundings all the time. I discreetly paused my music instead of removing my earphones, afraid of looking chismoso. It was only then that I realized the middle-aged woman was shouting at me. My tattoo sleeve was peeking out of my shirt.  

I won’t be able to finish my studies; I will never find a decent job, she said repeatedly. Not yet caffeinated to engage in anything, especially in an argument, I ignored her and played my music again. She was still saying something about the sanctity of the body. About the criminals. About Duterte and drugs. (READ: Stop assuming all drug users are addicts – Ateneo professor)

It was too late when I realized what had happened – I was judged for having tattoos. If I were to compare my experience, it wasn’t as bad or as traumatic as that of folks discriminated against for their gender or disability. But perhaps there’s that common feeling, the feeling of self-denial. 

The English physician Havelock Ellis wrote an essay in the 1930s titled “The Function of Taboos.” According to him, “A taboo, speaking roughly, simply indicates something that is ‘not done.’ The reason why it is not done may be, and often is, unknown to those who observe the taboo.” 

In a positive remark, he mentioned that the existence of taboos is necessary for society because it grounds us to our morality and dignity. Taboo for him is related to discipline. Yet, there are taboos associated with social stigma or discrimination against people with specific characteristics or beliefs.  

In 2019, news sites and social media in the Philippines were filled with posts about different existing taboos and stigmas in our society. These included living-in among millennial partners, gender-neutral restrooms, same-sex relationships, intersex persons, mental health, disabilities, HIV, and speaking out as a victim of harassment. Like tattoos, these are not new issues. 

What’s important to note here is the shifting perspective of people, especially the Filipino youth. A quick Internet search will reveal the increasing interest and attempt to engage in conversations to widen the understanding or knowledge about these issues. Evidence would be the SOGIE Bill being the fourth most-searched news-related keyword on Google Philippines 2019.

But how engaged are we? 

One of the phrases that became popular last year was “OK, boomer.” This phrase is used by the younger generation to dismiss or mock the seemingly close-minded, conservative opinions of baby boomers. This terse retort implies the exhaustion of the younger generation over constantly having to explain the reasons for their actions, beliefs, and choices. (Does this mean that we are the new Beat Generation? Maybe not even close.) However, the response does not contribute to the supposed dialogue, but only allows a generational divide and leaves the old thinking of boomers unaffected. 

Taboos and stigmas exist because we allow them to. We dismiss instead of enlighten. It sounds like a huge responsibility, but aren’t we also the ones who claim to be “woke?" The aim is not to change our society, but for our society to become a progressive one. Remember that instance when Joey De Leon got schooled by Maine Mendoza about suicide? Remember Greta Thunberg’s speech to world leaders at the UN? Remember the many causes led by the younger generation these past few years?  

The youth spoke out about how they understand the world in the conditions that they are part of and exposed to. In effect, there is magnification and shedding of light on these issues. Their brave acts became social movements.  

W. Lance Bennett, a political scientist, argued that new media has transformed the very nature of protest movements. Unlike in the early protests where there were leaders like Henry David Thoreau, Martin Luther King Jr., Mohandas Gandhi, and Rosa Parks, protest in new media have become "polycephalous," which means "they are no longer represented by a central leading figure, but have many local representatives.” Protest movements have also changed in the sense that they, as Bennett mentioned,  are no longer about ideology and ideological differences, but are “more about personal and fluid forms of association.” 

By setting campaigns through social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, people find people with whom they share the same situation and have conversations. For example, in “The Role of Social Media in Reducing Stigma and Discrimination” from The British Journal of Psychiatry, it is mentioned that there is an increased awareness of mental health because “people with mental health problems share their experiences in online public spaces and challenge mental health stigma.” 

We need to educate and replace stereotypes with factual information and figures, correct misinformation, and refute negative perceptions through user-generated content. This means we also need to enlighten ourselves heavily about the matter. We need not only participation but active engagement. We don’t want to be tagged as “clicktivists” whose activism is only limited to computer clicks without real action. “If you don’t act, the danger becomes stronger,” says the artist Ai Weiwei. 

Improvisational theater has the “Yes, and…” principle. “Yes” suggests that the participant agrees and accepts what the other participant mentioned, while “and” means the expansion of that idea. But outside the theater, when the statement is something we cannot relate to, something we find unacceptable, it’s difficult to apply this principle because it’s like subjugating to the old beliefs we don’t agree with.  

So, instead of saying “OK, boomer,” why not say “Yes, but…?" “Yes” means we’re accepting the older generation’s statement, although not necessarily agreeing to it, and “but” suggests that we too have our take on the matter. This is our improv game with hope, with a reason, to improve and contribute to the dialogue. Call it “improv-ment.” After all, in a Shakespearean sense, “All the world’s stage.” But not to the point that it’s all for a show.  

I wish I realized earlier what had happened during that FX ride so I could’ve tried to “Yes, but…” the middle-aged woman. Yes, we must respect our bodies, but we also have a choice to do what we wish. Yes, tattoos are associated with criminals, but not all of those who have tattoos are criminals because many are in the professional field. Yes, taboos and stigmas exist, but we’re not complacent. One’s skin is never a limitation to achieving anything, the same with one's gender, the same with one's disability. – Rappler.com

Jose P. Mojica, MA, teaches communication and media at the University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Arts and Letters under the Department of Communication and Media Studies. He is a resident fellow of the UST Center for Creative Writing and Literary Studies.

 

Call for Agos volunteers: Help gather Taal Volcano information

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MANILA, Philippines – State volcanologists raised Alert Level 4 for the Taal Volcano in Batangas on Sunday evening, January 12, warning that a "hazardous" eruption may occur "within hours to days."

MovePH, the civic engagement arm of Rappler, is looking for volunteers who can assist in gathering and verifying critical information from social media on Taal Volcano's immiment eruption.

The digital humanitarians will use the platform Agos, powered by eBayanihan. Agos is a one-stop online platform that helps gather information to achieve #ZeroCasualty when disasters strike.

We need volunteers to gather the following information:

  • Areas affected by ashfall
  • Latest situation on the ground
  • Needs of affected communities

The information that digital humanitarians gather and verify will be relayed to national government agencies and local responders.

Citizen journalists can also send reports, photos, and videos on how their families and communities are preparing for the imminent eruption by posting using #TaalEruption2020 and tagging @MovePH on Twitter.

Click the button below to register as a volunteer or fill up this form.



Be a digital humanitarian today! – Rappler.com

If you have any questions, feedback, or additional information, please email move.ph@rappler.com or tweet @moveph.

#ReliefPH: Help communities affected by Taal Volcano eruption

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MANILA, Philippines – Thousands of Filipinos living near the volcano and surrounding areas fled their homes after the Taal Volcano in Batangas started spewing kilometers-high ash Sunday afternoon, January 12.

State volcanologists raised Alert Level 4 for the volcano by Sunday night, warning that a “hazardous” eruption may occur “within hours or days.” (READ: What you should know about Taal Volcano)

Taal Volcano spewed lava fountains and triggered ashfall that spread not just in Batangas but also to other parts of the Calabarzon region, as well as to Metro Manila and Central Luzon.

Those affected by the Taal Volcano eruption need the following items:

  • Face masks
  • Bottled water
  • Sleeping mats, blankets, towels
  • Hygiene kits, such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, sanitary napkins, diapers
  • Canned goods, biscuits, noodles and other ready-to-eat meals
  • Clean and decent clothes

Here are some relief initiatives to help communities affected by the Taal Volcano eruption:

Batangas

Provincial Government of Batangas

The Provincial Government of Batangas is accepting in-kind donations for those affected by the Taal Volcano eruption. These can be dropped off at the Provincial Sports Complex, Bolbok, Batangas City.

For cash donations, interested donors can coordinate with Joy Montalbo, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office head, at +639209457654.

 

Cavite

DSWD Calabarzon

The Department of Social Welfare and Development Calabarzon is in need of volunteers for the repacking of goods for affected families.

Individuals or groups interested to volunteer may proceed to DSWD Field Office IV-A Warehouse, Brgy. Gregoria de Jesus, GMA, Cavite (in front of Barangay Hall). Repacking hours are from 8 am onwards starting Tuesday, January 14.

They may also drop in-kind donations there.

Red Cross Cavite

Red Cross Cavite Chapter is accepting donations for the victims of Taal volcano eruption. Drop-off center is at National College of Science and Technology in Dasmariñas, Cavite.

Alfonso, Cavite

Randy Salamat, the mayor of Alfonso, Cavite, is asking for support due to the continuous increase of evacuees coming to the area from Batangas.

These may be dropped off at the Municipal Hall of Alfonso. People may also contact Municipal Social Welfare and Development head Gina Vedan at +63 917 803 1253 for relief goods coordination.

 

Laguna

Rotaract Club of San Pedro East and Taal Lemery

The Rotaract Club of San Pedro East and the Rotaract Club of Taal Lemery are accepting in-kind donations. These may be dropped off in Fil-em Building, 8 J.Luna Street, Poblacion, San Pedro City, Laguna. 

Contact person is Bhea Santiago (0906 823 7737).

 

Muntinlupa City

DSWD Calabarzon 

DSWD Calabarzon is accepting in-kind donations at the DSWD Field Office IV-A in Alabang Zapote Road, Alabang, Muntinlupa City. Interested donors may contact Gina Laranan (0910-886-0829).

De La Salle Santiago Zobel School

De La Salle Santiago Zobel (DLSZ) School is accepting the following items for donation to victims of the Taal Volcano eruption:

These items should be placed in eco-friendly materials and can be dropped off at Gate 2, DLSZ.

Rock Ed Philippines

Rock Ed Philippines is accepting tightly-packed and freshly-washed clothes to be delivered to evacuation centers in Sto. Tomas, Batangas.

They are also accepting diapers, hygiene kits, water, and masks. Drop-off point is in Alabang.

Those who wish to donate cash may also deposit to Rock Ed Philippines’ BPI account with the following account number: 3080-0073-44.

People may also message Rock Ed Philippines’ Gang Capati if they’re willing to lend their Lalamove accounts for pick-ups.

 

Manila City

Caritas Manila

Caritas Manila is calling for in-kind donations for communities affected by the Taal Volcano eruption.

These may be dropped off at the Caritas Manila Office, 2002 Jesus St., Pandacan, Manila.

Polytechnic University of the Philippines

PUP is accepting in-kind donations at Prudente Conference Room (4th floor South Wing, Main Building). Donations will be accepted starting Tuesday, January 14.

SAMASA PUP

SAMASA PUP is calling for donations and volunteers to help Taal Volcano eruption victims.

In-kind donations may be dropped off at SAMASA Office, PUP Charlie del Rosario Building. For more information about the volunteer and donation drive, contact Hayme at 09158816018.

PUP Sociology Society

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines Sociology Society is accepting in-kind donations until January 18.

For more information, donors may contact Alyza Powao at 09565880156 and 09438289367. They may also contact any of the PUP Sociology Society Officers: Marianne Galvez, Von Defuntorum, Joanna Suobiron, Marycris Villaceran, and Matthew Milagroso.

 

Makati City

Don Bosco Technical Institute of Makati

Don Bosco Technical Institute of Makati is accepting donations for Taal Volcano eruption victims starting 3 pm on Monday, January 13, until 8 am on Tuesday, January 14. In- kind donations can be dropped off at Gate 2 of the Don Bosco Technical Institute of Makati. 

Rotaract Club of San Pedro East and Taal Lemery

The Rotaract Club of San Pedro East and the Rotaract Club of Taal Lemery are accepting in-kind donations. These may be dropped off in Makati Rotary Club Foundation Inc. Building, Camia St., Guadalupe Viejo, Makati City.

Contact person is Kash Gana (0916 373 2717).

Pasay City

DSWD Calabarzon

Those interested to volunteer for DSWD Calabarzon and help repack goods for affected families can go to National Resource Operations Center, Chapel Road, Pasay City. 

They may also drop in-kind donations there.

 

Quezon City

OFM-JPIC of the Franciscan Province of San Pedro Bautista, Philippines

The Order of Friars Minor–Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (OFM-JPIC) of the Franciscan Province of San Pedro Bautista, Philippines accepts in-kind donations in their JPIC office at St. Gregory the Great Friary, 69 San Pedro Bautista Street, San Francisco Del Monte, Quezon City. For questions, donors may contact Father Angel Cortex, OFM at +639177759343.

Gerry Roxas Foundation and Leadership Awardees Students' Society

The Gerry Roxas Foundation and the Gerry Roxas Leadership Awardees (GRLA) Students' Society are accepting donations, which will be sent to the GRLA partner organization in areas in Batangas.

In-kind donations may be dropped off at the GRLA Students' Society Headquarters at Room 19, Balay Expo Centro, Araneta City until January 17, 2020.

University of the Philippines campuses

The University of the Philippines (UP) Office of the Student Regent shared that several UP campuses are accepting donations for Taal Volcano eruption victims. 

They are accepting donations of face masks, mats, ready-to-eat food, water, and clothes, which will be sent to evacuees.

Here are the UP campuses with their respective contact persons and drop-off points for donations:

UP BAGUIO

USC Office, Alumni Center Building, UP Baguio
Contact: Gabriel - 09954608407

UP DILIMAN

USC Office, Sampaguita Residence Hall, UP Diliman, Quezon City
Donation drop-off will be from January 14 to 17.
Monetary donations may also be wired via bank transfer using the following details:
BPI Account Name: Marian Joselli H. Castillo
BPI Account Number: 0879-4012-32
Contact: Marco - 09171084376

UP MANILA

University Student Council Office
CAS Student Council Office
For more information, you may contact the following people: USC Habagat - 0908 211 1437, CD Sandy - 0927 533 9388, CN Reginne - 0947 812 2130, CPH Mika - 0917 162 0030 CP Jancel - 0906 526 5061.

UP COLLEGE OF NURSING

UP College of Nursing (Sotejo Hall) lobby
Cash donations may be deposited with PNB:
Account name: UP Manila Nursing Student Council
Account Number: 168310064058
Reginne Dela Peña 09478122130

UP LOS BAÑOS

USC Office, SU Building, UPLB
Monetary donations may also be wired via bank transfer.
Landbank Account Name: Frelie D. Dimaculangan
Landbank Account Number: 1896 2663 29
BDO Account Name : Frelie D. Dimaculangan
BDO Account Number: 010180113801

For questions, contact Jaean Cabatay, vice chairperson for external affairs, at 09208291762 or at jhcabatay@up.edu.ph / upcaballeros1980@gmail.com. People may also contact Nico at 09955240257.

SU Building Canteen, UPLB

People may donate food, bottled water, clothes, toiletries, medicine, nebulizer, face masks, and cash.
Donations will be accepted from January 13 to 24.

People may also volunteer to buy, repack, and deliver relief goods by contacting the Facebook and Twitter accounts of All UP Academic Employees Union.

Cash donations

Inquirer

Inquirer is calling for support and extending relief to the victims of the Taal Volcano eruption. It is currently accepting cash donations, which may be deposited in the following account:

Inquirer Foundation Corp.
Banco de Oro (BDO)
Current account no: 007960018860

Inquiries may be addressed and emailed to Inquirer’s Corporate Affairs office through foundation@inquirer.com.ph.

Southern Tagalog Serve the People Corps

Southern Tagalog Serve the People Corps is accepting donations and volunteers to help those affected by the Taal Volcano eruption.

Those who wish to donate, volunteer, or are in need of assistance may message them via their Facebook page or through +639081406733.

Mu Sigma Phi

Mu Relief, a committee under Mu Sigma Phi fraternity and sorority, is accepting monetary donations,which may be deposited to the following account:

Account name: Mu Sigma Phi Relief Operations
Account number: 1683-10114391
Bank: Philippine National Bank (PNB) – PGH Branch

For any inquiries or concerns, interested donors may coordinate with Tope (0999 151 9555) or Kristel (0927 137 0308).

Rotaract Club of San Pedro East and Taal Lemery

Cash donations may also be deposited in the following accounts:

Bank of the Philippine Islands
Aireen Andrea Perez
8329-3301-93
 
Banco de Oro (BDO)
Erika Mae de Vera
5130228643
 
Gcash
09068237737

A photo of the deposit slip must be sent to racsanpedroeast@gmail.com. These donations will be turned over to the evacuation centers in Batangas through the help of counterpart Rotaract Clubs in the area.

OFM-JPIC of the Franciscan Province of San Pedro Bautista, Philippines

The Order of Friars Minor–Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (OFM-JPIC) of the Franciscan Province of San Pedro Bautista, Philippines accepts cash donations, which may be deposited in the following account:

Bank of the Philippine Islands, Biak na Bato Branch, Quezon City
Account number: 0213-4074-06
Account name: Minister Provincial of the Franciscan Philippines Province of San Pedro, Inc. (MPFPPSPBI)

De La Salle Santiago Zobel School

DLSZ also accepts cash donations, which may be deposited in the following account:

Account name: De La Salle Santiago Zobel School
Bank: Unionbank of the Philippines
Peso account: 018030006691
Dollar account: 018101009418
 
Account name: De La Salle Lipa Inc
Account no.: 9011-0019-28
Bank: Bank of the Philippine Islands
Branch: Poblacion, Lipa City
 
Account no: 0074-90004-7
Bank: RCBC
Branch: Ayala Highway, Lipa City

For cash donations, a photo or screenshot of the deposit slip must be sent to benjamin.sazon@dlszobel.edu.ph. They may also contact him in case of queries at 09175500680, 02 7713579 local 568.

Gerry Roxas Foundation and Leadership Awardees Students' Society

The Gerry Roxas Foundation and the Gerry Roxas Leadership Awardees (GRLA) Students' Society are accepting donations, which will be sent to the GRLA partner organization in areas in Batangas.

For monetary donations, you may deposit in the following account:

BPI account name: Marielle Alemania

Account no.: 0129399139

Caritas Manila

Caritas Manila is calling for cash and in-kind donations for communities affected by the Taal Volcano eruption.

People may donate online by choosing Caritas Damayan Taal Volcano after clicking this link.

They may also send cash donations by depositing to the following accounts:

Savings account name: Caritas Manila, Inc.
 
BDO savings account no.: 5600-45905
BPI savings account no.: 3063-5357-01
Metrobank savings account no.: 175-3-17506954-3

For dollar accounts:
BPI savings account no.: 3064-0033-55
Swift code: BOPIPHMM
 
PNB savings account no.: 10-856-660002-5
Swift code: PNBMPHMM

Caritas Manila says people may also donate via Cebuana Lhuillier free of charge. For proper acknowledgement of donations, people are instructed to fax a copy of the deposit slip to 8563-9306 or email a scanned copy to donorcare@caritasmanila.org.ph. Name and address should also be indicated. – Rappler.com

Do you know of other initiatives to help those affected by the Taal Volcano eruption? Tag @MovePH on Twitter and use the hastag #ReliefPH. You may also send a message to MovePH on Facebook and Twitter. MovePH is also looking for Agos volunteers who will help gather and verify critical information in times of disaster. Know more about it here.


How groups are saving stranded animals near Taal Volcano

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Photos from Philippine Animal Welfare Society and Gio Senario

MANILA, Philippines – When thousands of Filipinos living near the Taal Volcano fled after the volcano was spotted spewing ash on Sunday, January 12, some of them weren't leaving behind not just their homes but their pets as well.

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) found pet dogs, cows, and other livestock stranded around the Taal Volcano, especially in Talisay, Batangas, during their assessment of the area on Monday, January 13.

Found thirsty and hungry, hundreds of animals in Talisay town were left behind by their owners, who evacuated in the wake of the Taal Volcano eruption. In surrounding areas, animals are at serious risk from ashfall and abandonment.

PAWS left food and water for both chained and stray animals as it conducted its assessment in the area, and aided a woman struggling to evacuate the area with all 3 of her dogs on her motorcycle, even after improvising makeshift seats for them.

Knowing there’s more that can be done, PAWS is seeking donations of cow feed, chicken feed, dog food, cat food, bottles of water, and pet bowls for their relief operations for these stranded animals. They’re hoping to bring help to stranded animals in Tagaytay City as well. (READ: #ReliefPH: Help communities affected by Taal Volcano eruption)

These donations may be sent via Grab or Lalamove or dropped off at their animal shelter, Aurora Boulevard, Katipunan Valley, Loyola Heights, Quezon City.

People may also deposit donations in the following accounts:

Account name: Philippine Animal Welfare Society

BPI (swift no. BOPIPHMM)
Peso account no.: 3943-0086-11
Dollar account number: 3944-0021-61

PNB (swift no. PNBM PHMM)
Peso account no.: 1888-70015305

Saving our fur friends

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority K-9 Corps, in partnership with Strategic Power for Animal Respondents-Philippines (SPAR), is also calling for volunteers who can help rescue pets in  affected areas.

Volunteers who can help crate and transport abandoned pets in Batangas and nearby provinces to a shelter or foster home may contact the following numbers to join the initiative: 0917 7680 555 and 0917 6363 823.

Even individuals are finding ways to help out as well. A local veterinarian in Balete, Batangas, is helping treat horses suffering from colds triggered by the ashfall in the area. These horses were evacuated by locals from Taal Volcano Island to a housing facility in Palsara, Balete, Batangas on Sunday, January 12. Until now, some of these horses are still covered in ash.

Keeping our fur friends safe

Those with fur friends and are in an area affected by falling ash should keep animals safe indoors since ash emissions are dangerous to both humans and animals. Prepping leashes, harnesses, carriers, medication, food, as well as keeping animal companions close by, are important to ensure that you can flee together at a moment's notice.

During evacuations, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) suggested to never leave animals behind since they might become malnourished, dehydrated, or might escape in fear and get lost.

In case you have to leave your animal companion behind, PETA encourages leaving them with at least 10 days' supply of water and dry food. Animals should also stay in a secure area inside the house instead of leaving them tied up or caged outside.

Those who spot any animals in distress and are unable to help can also note the animal's location and contact PETA at 0999-888-7382. PETA also accepts donations via this link.

Do you know of similar initiatives being done to help stranded animals near Taal Volcano? Let us know by tagging @MovePH on social media! – Rappler.com

Biñan City is turning Taal Volcano's ash into bricks

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Laguna's Biñan Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) produces these bricks with the intention of putting Taal Volcano's ash into good use. Photo by Fernando Villanueva of MRF

MANILA, Philippines – The city government of Biñan, Laguna has a solution for the ashfall from the eruption of Taal Volcano in Batangas: turning the ash into bricks.

In a Facebook post, Mayor Arman Dimaguila shared how they turned volcanic ash into bricks through what looks like a makeshift brick-making machine. 

According to Fatima Nona Alon, a local government officer in Biñan, Mayor Dimaguila ordered the households there to collect the ash from their surroundings while the city’s materials recovery facility (MRF) produces bricks out of it. 

“Ang naging instruction ni mayor, huwag basain ang mga alikabok, kolektahin at ilagay sa sako,” Alon said. (Mayor Dimaguila instructed the residents not to pour water on the ash, to collect them, and then put them in sacks.)

Taal Volcano began to spew ash on Sunday afternoon, January 12, generating an ash column 10 to 15 kilometers high. Several areas, including Calabarzon and Metro Manila, experienced the ashfall.

‘Bayanihan sa Biñan’

The clearing operation was part of the Bayanihan sa Biñan program. According to Alon, the program got its start after Mayor Dimaguila ordered barangay officials to coordinate with their constituents to improve Biñan. (READ: In disaster-hit areas, people are stepping up to help Taal Volcano victims)

Inatasan ni mayor na mag tulong tulong lahat ng barangay, community-involved ang project kaya tinawag niya itong bayanihan,” Alon said. (Mayor instructed all barangays to help. The project is community-oriented, and that’s why he called it 'Bayanihan.')

The city’s project of producing eco bricks started in 2016, as part of its local waste intervention program. Since then, the bricks produced by the MRF have been used to build facilities and classrooms in Biñan. 

“Before we used plastics in producing bricks, but then when Taal Volcano erupted we thought of using volcanic ash to produce them,” Alon said. 

Producing bricks out of volcanic ash is not new. In a BBC report in 2011, one Argentine woman decided to transform the ash brought by Chile's Puyehue volcano into bricks. 

A team of researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found that adding volcanic ash to cement mix can make the process not only environmentally-friendly, but can make structures stronger as well.

Alon said companies have asked to buy their bricks. For now though, the products will be used for the construction of a children's facility in Biñan City. 

Biñan’s MRF can produce 5,000 bricks a day. Asked if there were plans of donating the products to the victims of the Taal Volcano eruption, Alon said she would bring it up and see if the city government was amenable to it. 

At least 24,508 people fled their homes in Batangas and Cavite provinces as of 12 noon on Monday, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported.

The volcano remained under Alert Level 4, which means a "hazardous" eruption is "imminent" or may occur "within days to hours." – Rappler.com

Batangueños uneasy about future amid imminent Taal Volcano eruption

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UNCERTAINTY. Batangas evacuees fear for their safety as Taal Volcano's imminent eruption poses a threat. All photos by Ericka Nieto/De La Salle Lipa Lavoxa Group of Publications

BATANGAS, Philippines– Since the Taal Volcano started spewing ash on Sunday, January 12, Batangueños continued to persevere even as they faced an uncertain future in light of an imminent eruption.

The volcano has been on Alert Level 4 since Sunday night, as state volcanologists warned that a “hazardous” eruption may occur “within hours or days.” (READ: What you should know about Taal Volcano)

Thousands of Filipinos have fled their houses following the ash eruption, with some leaving behind not just their homes but also their household pets and livestock. (READ: How groups are saving stranded animals near Taal Volcano

Carrying the trauma of fleeing because of the volcanic eruption, evacuees in Lipa and Malvar also fear they may have to rebuild their lives from scratch.

Merlita Caguitla, an evacuee from Inosluban, Lipa City, shared that a tragedy like this was not new to her as she survived the Taal volcanic eruption in 1977. (READ: TIMELINE: Taal Volcano eruptions since 1572)

Her experience made her fear for the lives of her family members as she thinks the same catastrophe would happen again.

Ako ay may karanasan nang pumutok noon ang Bulakang Taal kaya ako’y natatakot. Ganga-ulo ang mga batong ibinubuga, ang mapapatakan ay patay sadya.” said Caguitla. 

(I'm afraid because I have an experience when Taal Volcano previously erupted. The rocks that the volcano spewed were head-sized that people have a small chance to survive.)

STRENGTH. Camille Aparejado currently stays in an evacuation center in Malvar, Batangas.

Meanwhile, evacuee Camille Aparejado recalled how difficult it was to evacuate with her family when the volcano erupted on Sunday.

Nang bumurog ang bulkan ay kanya-kanyang sakayan na ng bangka. Ang inisip ko’y paano kaya ang lagay namin na’re. Bitbit ko ang aking mga anak. May matanda [akong kasama], ang inay ay hindi makalakad, hindi naman makarinig ang aking ama. Hindi namin alam kung paano, kung tatakbo ga,” said Aparejado.

(When the volcano erupted, we immediately rode a boat to leave the island. I was thinking how our situation would be. I was carrying my children and I have my mother who couldn’t walk and my father who couldn’t hear. We didn’t know what to do and how to run away.)

The hard times didn't end there. Once evacuated, Aparejado had to transfer with her family to several evacuation centers in Talisay, Batangas, looking for a place to stay that wasn't inside the danger zone. They eventually sought refuge in Malvar, Batangas.

Though she faced a difficult ordeal in light of Taal Volcano's eruption, she was thankful that her whole family was together and safe in the same evacuation center. 

HOPEFUL. Fernando Duenog hopes that he will be reunited with his family soon.

This wasn’t the case for Fernando Duenog who also struggled to evacuate but eventually got separated from his family.

Na-rescue kami mga 10 pm. Mahirap talaga bago kami nakaalis sa amin. Umuulan ng putik. Nagkahiwalay kami ng pamilya ko dahil isinilong ko muna ang mga alaga kong hayop. Nasa Calaca, Batangas daw sila,” Duenog said.

(We were rescued at around 10 pm. We had a hard time leaving [the village because] it was raining mud. I got separated from my family who are now in Calaca, Batangas because I secured our animals first.)

Livelihood at risk

Residing near a body of water rich in resources, most of the locals of areas near Taal Lake made a living from fishing and farming. (WATCH: Fishermen risk lives for catch around restive Taal Volcano)

Despite being warned  not to return to the danger zones, Leonard Alcantara shared how his friend went back to check their horses, fearing that they would lose their livehood. 

Now Leonard Alcantara and his friends will have to start over.

Namatay na ho lahat ang aming mga alagang hayop at kabayo. May kasama kaming bumalik sa Talisay para tingnan. Wala na po kaming babalikan talaga,” Alcantara said.

(Our animals and horses died. Our friend went back to Talisay to check on them. We have nothing left with us now.)

Fearing the safety of her livestock, Maria Luz Abelindle, also checked their animals' condition at San Sebastian, Balete, Batangas. She said that though these were safe, they do not have anything to eat and might eventually starve to death.

Though evacuees receive basic needs in their evacuation center, Abelindle added that she worries that there would be nothing left for her livelihood once they return to her village.

Okay kami ngayon dito sa evacuation center, madaming donasyon [pero] after nito, paano kami? Kasi ang kabuhayan namin ay sa dagat, [ang] panghuhuli ng tilapia na siguradong apektado,” said Abelindle.

(We are safe here in the evacuation center. We are receiving many donations but after this disaster, we are worried because our livelihood is catching tilapia which will greatly affect us.)

JEOPARDIZED FUTURE. Mario Caguitla, Jr. shares how his livelihood is affected by Taal Volcano's eruption.

Mario Caguitla Jr shared the same sentiment as he depended fishing as livelihood. He was considering shifting careers.

Ngayon okay pa kami pero noong sumabog ang bulkan, ang abo [ay] sa tubig papatak, ang maaapektohan ay isda. Iyon ang problema pag alis namin dito. Ang iniisip ko ay ano kabuhayan na maaari kong ipalit, kung mag a-apply na lang ga [ng trabaho],” Caguitla said.

(Now we are still safe but when the volcano erupted, the ash landed on the lake and now the fishes are affected, which is our livelihood. That is what we worry after this. We are thinking of possible alternatives and I am considering to apply for another work.)

Many families are dependent on the Taal Lake for their livelihood. Now that the volcano threatened to destroy their way of life, their future seemed even more uncertain.

'Bayanihan'

KINDNESS. Kolehiyo ng Lungsod (KLL) help fellow Batangueños by holding a donation drive in Lipa City.

In time of this crisis, the evacuees found relief in the volunteerism of Batangueños and other Filipinos.

Aside from efforts of government agencies and other organizations, students were joining different drives and efforts to send relief to evacuees. (READ: #ReliefPH: Help communities affected by Taal Volcano eruption)

Dubbing themselves volunteers for a cause, a group of students from Kolehiyo ng Lungsod (KLL) ng Lipa carried signs outside Lipa City Public market to call for donations for the evacuees staying in the area.

Kahit sino naman sa oras na ganito ay gustong makatulong lalo na at ang mga naghihirap ay kapwa nating Batangueño,” said Christine Nigel Lizare, one of the volunteers.

Likewise, Justin James Dimapasok, a student from De La Salle Lipa (DLSL), volunteered in the Philippine Red Cross. He was deployed to evacuation centers near ground zero areas to assess the needs of evacuees. 

Ginagawa ko ito dahil hindi ko kayang makitang umiiyak sa hirap ang mga kababayan ko. Naniniwala ako na ang takot ay nawala sa bokabularyo ko at nating mga Batangueño,” said Dimapasok.

(I'm volunteering because I can't stand seeing my fellow Batangueños suffer. I believe that fear is gone from my vocabulary and from my fellow Batangueños.)

Camille Resma, along with other members of De La Salle Lipa’s Lavoxa Group of Publications, volunteered in the Art Relief Mobile Kitchen to cook hot meals for evacuees. She was also raising money through a fundraising effort online to help evacuees staying in Lipa City and Malvar

Namigay ako ng mga pangunahing pangangailangan ng mga evacuees. Alam kong makakatulong ako kung may kongkretong aksyon. Kung baga, may tawag ng pagkilos dahil kailangan tayo ng kababayan natin,” Angelic Cabatana, also a member of Lavoxa added. 

(I donated the basic needs of the evacuees. I know that I can only help if there's a concrete action. There is a call of action because they need us.)

Knowing that face masks were needed to protect people from respiratory diseases caused by the ashfall, Carla Abrenica, a student of University of Batangas, distributed free face masks sewed by her mother as supply ran out in Metro Manila and nearby provinces. (READ: How to stay safe during volcanic ashfall)

With the province of Batangas declared under state of calamity on Monday, January 13, the local government was working toward the relief, rehabilitation, reconstruction, and recovery to mitigate the effects of the disaster and stabilize the situation in the area.

Still, the situation of Batangueño evacuees in the next few days was still uncertain as they dealt with the imminent hazardous eruption of the Taal Volcano.

For some, they might never go back to their homes, as President Rodrigo Duterte declared the island volcano of Taal off-limits, urging the relocation of 4,000 residents. – Rappler.com

Ericka Nieto is a Rappler mover from Batangas. She is a communication student at De La Salle Lipa and the Associate Editor of the Lavoxa Group of Publications.

[OPINION] Use solar energy for responding to disasters

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Time and again, it has been proven that whenever disasters happen in the Philippines, social infrastructure including electricity shuts down for days or months depending on the nature of the disaster and where it struck. In the absence of electricity, all human activity is severely disrupted; economic and business activities grind to a halt as systems are damaged or ruined. 

Right now, Filipinos and the rest of the world are seeing the impact of the Taal Volcano's threat of explosion on the lives and livelihoods of thousands of citizens living and working within 60 kilometers of the volcano. According to reports, the ashfall knocked down power distribution circuits throughout Tagaytay City and parts of Batangas, Cavite, and Laguna. Volcanic fragments also caused outages in 5 major transmission facilities. 

In the meantime, in the last two years, other calamities have occurred, including man-made disasters such as the war in Marawi. Welfare agencies have reported that many evacuation centers do not have sufficient electricity supplies to accommodate the needs of those who sought shelter. Schools and churches whose facilities have been converted into staging grounds for disaster relief efforts end up running electricity bills by the millions after just one month.

It is most frustrating to environment advocacy groups that despite the immediate availability of means to address this problem, local government units and even the national government and its agencies continue to fail to take action.

What’s the immediate solution? Solar energy and solar PV systems.

Solar PV systems can be customized and immediately deployed. Even without storage systems that can ensure 24-7 electricity supplies, a solar PV installation can generate electricity to power lights, electric fans, radios, and charge cellphones. 

Solar PV power systems give out carbon emission-free electricity fueled by the sun; it’s energy that’s clean, safe, and free. When communities are slow to recover from a disaster, their overall economic health and social viability are threatened. Inevitably, more complex measures will become necessary to return affected communities to normal after they have been given relief in the in the early stages of disaster. During disasters, access to electricity means being able to operate electric fans, refrigerators, mosquito repelling lamps, water purifying systems. The uses and benefits of these are obvious and very important: these can stop health emergencies from erupting even as they can ensure a better level of comfort and safety for those in the evacuation centers. 

While it is true that in the last decade the concept of  “the resilient community” has become popular, sadly, in most cases, the urgent need for electricity access is hardly considered during preparations against disasters; it is only considered in the wake of disasters when supplies have been cut off.  

We must work for disaster resilience in all our communities not only to restore the economic and social viability of the community following disasters, but to ensure that the negative experiences of those affected do not worsen. Resilience also means that electricity, water, and communication lines are not cut off. Utilizing and fully maximizing the uses of solar energy and solar PV systems can increase community resilience by providing homes and community institutions backup power even if the electricity from the grid is not restored. Local governments and national agencies should spearhead the installation of solar microgrids all over the country and develop  community solar, which is a partnership between citizens, government, and businesses. (READ: Aeta lolas to install solar-powered lamps in villages)

At the height of relief efforts, community needs for temporary power can range from 100 watts to 100 kW. The most basic portable solar PV systems are built in 4 configurations: suitcase, trailer, container, and full array. Each type has different uses, and there is a specific type that’s suitable for different cases of disaster response and recovery efforts. They can be used to help restore communications for charging stations and power basic medical equipment. The systems with higher capacities can power small medical clinics and shelters as well as water pumps.  

During disasters, time becomes the most critical factor and not cost or capacity. People need help and they need it as soon as possible, and sometimes they will need it for protracted periods depending on how efficient or inefficient government authorities are in restoring order. For short periods, gensets can be effective, but in cases when people are forced to stay for extended periods in evacuation centers and restoring the grid will take weeks or months, solar-run power systems are the best alternative. (READ: Home solar panels: A beginner's guide to saving electricity)

Recently, a renewable energy social enterprise donated to the Catholic Church’s advocacy arm NASSA-Caritas a DREAM Machine. “DREAM” stands for Disaster Recovery Emergency Assistance Machine. A compact solar PV installation, it weighs 80 kgs and can be immediately employed in areas of disasters to provide immediate electricity during daytime. It can power cellphones, handheld radios, digital cameras, as well as rechargeable lanterns, flashlights, and nebulizers. The entire system can be quickly and easily installed in disaster sites, and then uninstalled after use to be taken to another site or stored in preparation for the next disaster. It’s now on the way to Batangas to be used in the church’s relief efforts. 

It’s important that companies engaged in solar power generation or storage should be tapped to become part of the disaster recovery initiatives. Given that the mining operations for diesel and other fossil fuels contribute to the natural calamities we continue to face, it really is time for the country to make the shift to renewal energy sources and to maximize solar energy disaster response and recovery efforts. – Rappler.com

Ina Alleco R. Silverio is a human rights and renewable energy advocate and works with various communities as a member of the Social Transformation unit of WeGen Laudato Si'. 

What other LGUs can learn from Albay's Mayon response plan

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LESSONS. The province Albay comes up with a policy paper that their local government units can refer to should Mayon Volcano suddenly erupt.

MANILA, Philippines – Does the country have standard protocols for volcanic eruptions?

While the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) came up with Operation Listo, a manual for local government units (LGU) responding to typhoons and other weather systems, the Philippines has yet to create a counterpart manual specific for volcanic eruptions. 

Unlike typhoon response that could wrap up in a few days, volcanic eruption watch and response can be long and grueling. With the possibility of ashfall, volcanic tsunami, and lava flow, hazards and risks in a volcanic eruption scenario are different from that of a typhoon. (READ: How to stay safe during volcanic ashfall)

Of the 23 active volcanoes being monitored by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), Mayon Volcano is considered the most active, having erupted more than 40 times since its first recorded eruption in 1616. 

It comes as no surprise, therefore, that the provincial government of Albay has initiated its own protocol for when Mayon Volcano suddenly erupts – a scenario that happened with Taal Volcano on Sunday, January 12, when Phivolcs raised the alert level to 4 in just a matter of hours. (READ: Batangueños uneasy about future amid imminent Taal Volcano eruption)

In an interview with Rappler, Ian Secillano, the municipal disaster risk reduction management officer in Libon, Albay, explained that, after the Mayon eruption in 2018, the Local Association of DRRMOs of Albay (LADA) turned their lessons into policies and practices should the volcano erupt again. 

What can other local government units (LGUs) learn from this? 

Data and information 

In its manual, LADA enumerates LGU priorities in the aftermath of a volcanic eruption and breaks them down into days in a four-month period. Secillano, who serves as the secretary of LADA, shared the key insights of their paper on Facebook. 

One of the most important lessons Secillano highlighted was the significance of having an updated and centralized information management system. (READ: #ReliefPH: Help communities affected by Taal Volcano eruption

“Kailangan lahat ng tutulong ay magko-coordinate sa local government kasi, if they don’t, magkakagulo pagdating sa 'baba…. At least the government can look at their data and answer: Saan bang evacuation centers ito p'wede dalhin? Secillano said. 

(It’s important that everyone who wants to help should coordinate with the local government. If they don’t, it could mess up response in relief centers. If everyone coordinaes, the local government can look at their data and answer which evacuation centers need relief goods the most.) 

With the surge of donations from private groups and individuals for those affected by the Taal Volcano eruption, the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) has appealed to the public to coordinate their donations with the Office of Civil Defense, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the Batangas Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office. (READ: In disaster-hit areas, people are stepping up to help Taal Volcano victims)

In Albay, Secillano said they hired a dedicated personnel with the appropriate skills and qualifications who focused on data gathering and management of information needed during their Mayon eruption operations. Although the hiring was a job order basis, Secillano said they were critical to making sure their information management system is updated during their response.

Manpower 

However, Secillano acknowledged the problem of the lack of manpower – a reality experienced by many local DRRM offices. During a volcanic eruption, this becomes more critical. 

“Ang mga DRRMOs kasi hindi lahat 'yan permanent or plantilla position. Minsan, meron isang DRR person na maraming job orders. Imagine 'yung stress kung round the clock 'yung operation and limited manpower. [In a volcanic eruption,] iba ang pagod ng dragging experience,” Secillano said.

(Most of DRRM officers have permanent or plantilla position. Sometimes, you have one DRR persons attenting to numerous job orders. Imagine the stress when you're on round the clock operation with limited manpower. In a volcanic eruption, dragging experience tires you out in a different way.)

Secillano recommended tapping or hiring additional manpower to help in responding to a volcanic eruption scenario that could stretch to months. 

As of Thursday, January 16, Phivolcs said the threat of a hazardous Taal Volcano eruption remained, as "intense seismic activity" persisted despite "weak emission" of ash plumes. (READ: TIMELINE: Taal Volcano eruptions since 1572)

Alert Level 4 remains in place, meaning a hazardous eruption is "imminent" or may happen "within hours to days."

Reminders to LGUs

Albay and Batangas are not the only provinces with active volcanoes. 

Secillan emphasized that LGUs with active volcanoes should engage with its community and consult experts, such as Phivolcs and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), for worst-case scenarios. (READ: Malacañang defends Phivolcs amid criticism over Taal eruption warnings)

“Kailangan natin magplano kasama ang mga eksperto and kasama ang mga mamayan,” Secillano said. (We should plan together with experts and the citizens.)

In Albay, for example, they conduct volcanic eruption drills to simulate different scenarios in barangays that will most likely be affected should the Mayon Volcano erupt. 

“The problem with simulations is that most people do not appreciate it. However, we need to take this seriously because it’s a practical skill,” Secillano said.

While the country does not yet have a standard protocol for volcanic eruptions, Secillano hopes the lessons they culled from their experience with the Mayon Volcano could inform and help other LGUs craft their own response plans for volcanic eruptions. – Rappler.com  

Eager to help, Filipinos crowdsource info to aid victims of Taal Volcano eruption

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TEMPORARY SHELTER. Hundreds of evacuees affected by the ongoing eruption of the Taal Volcano settle at a tent camp in Alfonso, Cavite. Photo by Charles Salazar/Rappler

MANILA, Philippines– After thousands of Filipinos fled their homes due to the ongoing eruption of the Taal Volcano, questions on how to help evacuees flooded social media.

While inspiring, the surge of efforts to help the evacuees resulted in a conundrum: The absence of coordination led to a surplus of aid in some evacuation centers and a shortage in others. (READ: Batangas creates Taal Volcano donation hub, systemizes relief efforts)

Because of this, a number of Filipinos focused their attention on making sense of information and updates on social media to aid and guide relief efforts.

Calling themselves Taal Volcano eruption social media volunteers, this budding Facebook group is filled with posts from Filipinos coordinating help to those affected.

A quick scan of the posts on the Facebook group showed various people sending updates of what's needed in evacuation centers; and inquiries regarding rescue and donation drives that people can participate in.

Sarah Gildo Schürmann, the creator of the group, said she made the group all the way from Germany to build a "bridge between volunteers and people affected by the eruption."

Created a day after the eruption, it now has over 3,000 members. As of Thursday night, January 16, alone, there have been 468 new posts from Filipinos eager to coordinate relief operations.

In a matter of days, the Facebook group has built a community where citizens send updates on the situation on the ground and give tips on how and where they can help.

Mapping out needs

Aside from gathering volunteers in one platform, others maximized their skills to help those leading relief drives and giving donations.

Using her experience as a database manager of the Center for Disaster Preparedness, Sheena Opulencia created a basic Google map showing the locations of active evacuation centers. The map also includes a 14-kilometer radius illustrating the danger zones.

Using information from the Tanauan City Information Office, Batangas Public Information Office, and several Facebook posts, she made the list in hopes of making it easy for people to find evacuation centers that are in need of donations.

She was inspired to make the map after her parents got stuck in Tanauan City, Batangas, when the volcano erupted.

"I created the map based on how I will actually use it for my family and my fellow Batangueños who were affected by the eruption. Visualizing disaster data allows people to realign resources and identify areas that need more support than just looking at a list," Opulencia said.

Through the map she made, Opulencia hopes to help those leading relief drives know where they should go.

"Hopefully, the map will guide groups in bringing relief goods rather than going one by one to each barangay looking for the evacuation site, which can be time- and resource-consuming," she explained.

"Friends who are responding from Manila have been asking me where they can go, so now it's easy to refer them to these areas," she added.

Hoping to further help those providing relief, Opulencia is working on including the number of evacuees in the centers to her map.

Working together

Opulencia isn't alone in realizing the importance of mapping the evacuation centers. For instance, a group of Master of Science in Data Science students from the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) is working to make a web application showcasing a map of the affected areas. They will be using data gathered from online posts and government agencies.

"A lot of people are already doing relief goods and doing ops work, so we wanted to provide something to help them because it's really decentralized. People are doing their own initiatives separately. Our initiative could potentially be instrumental to them as a central platform for them to know or to decide where to send off their goods," Ria Flora, one of the students leading the team, said.

Partnering with Open Street Maps, the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT), and Rappler's disaster management platform Agos, this team of data science students hopes to maximize crowdsourced data for their web application named AIM Project DATOS (Data Towards Security). (READ: Call for Agos volunteers: Help gather Taal Volcano information)

They also have contacts in local government units to help get data on-site, while Agos volunteers monitor and verify online posts for the web application. 

Aside from a map showcasing the affected areas, the web application will also pin down evacuation centers, along with the number of people and supplies sent to each one, for monitoring.

This will help people decide which evacuation centers need the most help.

Flora said they're hoping to launch the web application on Friday, January 17. Through this web application, the team hopes to highlight the need for a centralized platform for information to get everybody on the same page.

Why crowdsource?

Especially in the age of social media, Flora said that crowdsourcing information can get quick results.

"We are living in the time and age that data is everywhere," she said.

"We have to grow comfortable with crowdsourcing. We're not saying just take whatever Facebook posts as is. We're saying make use of this Facebook post as a starting point. We don't want redundancy in terms of efforts. The last thing we want is multiple initiatives doing the same thing," Flora added.

Crowdsourcing is at the heart of citizen initiatives like AIM Project DATOS and the Facebook group Taal Volcano social media volunteers. Flora highlighted the importance of access to information during disasters, especially information from government agencies, to give the public an idea of how they can help.

"We really just need access to information. With information, we can already extract so much. It's not just access, it's timely access to information. That's what makes it different," she said. Rappler.com

Netizens defend Phivolcs amid criticisms

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MANILA, Philippines – Netizens have rallied behind  Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) after government officials criticized the agency for its supposed lapses in issuing timely warnings on the Taal Volcano eruption

Netizens took to social media to shield Phivolcs from criticism after Cavite 4th District Representative Elpidio Barzaga Jr called for a  House investigation into how Phivolcs supposedly failed to issue proper warnings on the eruption of Taal Volcano. 

Special Envoy of Public Diplomacy to China Ramon Tulfo echoed Barzaga and even suggested in a tweet that Phivolcs offficials should be "executed" for failing to do their jobs.

Difficult work

Others, however, disagreed with the officials and rallied behind Phivolcs,  citing the difficulty in predicting volcanic eruptions. (READ: Malacañang defends Phivolcs amid criticism over Taal eruption warnings)

Philip Jamilla of rights group Karapatan dismissed Barzaga's bid to investigate Phivolcs as grandstanding, and cited the complex process behind volcanic activity monitoring which should not be underestimated by those who are not familiar with it.

“Eruptions are rarely predictable – if not unpredictable – and Phivolcs can only issue warnings based on current seismic activity. Government agencies at this point should focus on relief and rescue operations and preparing for the hazardous eruption being warned by Phivolcs,” Jamilla said in a tweet.

Joseph Christian Datinguinoo said on Facebook, “Stupidity is blaming a scientific institution for failure in doing the impossible: predicting volcanic eruptions.” 

Scientists hard at work

Derik Cumagun said experts were still the best resource persons in times of natural disasters. “Now is a really good time to listen to the experts. Not to pseudo-scientists trying to capitalize on the calamity just so their blogs could rake in more likes,” he said.

Raffy Magno thanked Phivolcs workers for their dedication in their job.

Hanggang ngayon, ilang araw na 'yan walang mga tulog, pero nakakausap nang maayos, malumanay. Marami akong tanong kanina at makulit na para sigurado akong naintindihan ko lahat, dis-oras ng gabi, pero kalmado at maayos ang pagkaka-explain,” Magno shared.

(Until now, they haven’t been getting enough sleep the past days but they can still communicate well, calmly.  I had many questions and I wanted to make sure that I understand what’s happening but they still managed to explain everything calmly and properly.

Netizens also cited the importance of Phivolcs during times of disasters.

What does Phivolcs actually do?

Phivolcs, which is under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), is responsible for posting volcano bulletins, earthquake information, and tsunami advisories and warnings to alert affected areas on how should they respond.

As early as March 28, 2019, Phivolcs issued a news bulletin putting Taal Volcano under Alert Level 1, meaning no hazardous eruption was imminent. 

On December 1, 2019, the agency maintained Taal Volcano under Alert Level 1 after  recording a high number of  tremors pointing to a possible hazardous eruption, though not imminent. (READ: Taal Volcano's 2020 eruption: What we know so far)

Phivolcs raised Alert Level 2 on Taal Volcano at 2:30 pm on Sunday, January 12; Level 3 at 4 pm; and Level 4 at 7:30 pm. At this level, Phivolcs recommended evacuation and prevent reentry within the 14-kilometer permanent danger zone. (READ: FAST FACTS: Taal Volcano alert levels)

Phivolcs officials said they were surprised by how quick the Taal Volcano activity unfolded. This gave local government units less time to evacuate residents within the danger zone.

Experts noted that there is a high degree of unpredictability when it comes to complex volcanic processes.

Phivolcs also shared an infographic of its monitoring findings on 3 active volcanoes: Taal Volcano in Batangas, Mayon Volcano in Albay, and Bulusan Volcano in Sorsogon on Tuesday, January 14.

Para sa inyong kaalaman, ang DOST-PHIVOLCS ay nagbabantay 24 oras sa mga aktibong bulkan sa bansa,” Phivolcs said in their caption.

(For your information, Phivolcs monitors the active volcanoes in the country for 24 hours.)

Was there anything that Phivolcs and the concerned LGUs could have done to respond better to the Taal Volcano eruption? Drop them down in the comments section! – Rappler.com


[OPINION] Giving attention to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

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A child’s seemingly endless curiosity to ask and know more about the world often leads them to become extraordinarily active. However, there are some cases where children become too hyperactive and impulsive compared to normal children. This is one of the common symptoms for a child with ADHD. 

What is ADHD? To put it simply, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a brain condition that makes it difficult for someone to control their own behavior and emotion. The said condition disrupts the brain and its processes, resulting in a shorter attention span, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Also, it is one of the most common childhood neurodevelopmental disorders.

For us to understand more about ADHD, as not simply connotating it to an overly active child, it is important to remember the causes, common symptoms, and treatment.

ADHD is considered as the most commonly diagnosed mental disorder among children. Children with ADHD have trouble paying attention and controlling impulsive behaviors, act without thinking about what the result will be, and are overly active.  

ADHD can also affect your child’s school performance or social life. Usually, kids with such conditions do not notice how their behavior may affect other people; this might lead the affected child to have trouble in making friends. Kids with ADHD also struggle with conversation because they misinterpret what others say and are distracted by unrelated thoughts. 

They overreact to situations, as they usually struggle with self-control, and lash out when they are upset or have occasional meltdowns. They have trouble with planning, leading other kids to perceive them as unreliable. 

Recent studies have yet to discover the causes of ADHD. Some people attribute it to heredity, chemical imbalance, brain changes, poor nutrition, toxins, and brain injury or disorder

The picture of ADHD is not bleak. In fact, there are ways to manage the symptoms of the disease holistically. These range from behavioral intervention programs, parent training and support groups, providing a nurturing environment, and prescription medication. 

Parent training is crucial as they and close family members and even friends need to be patient, understanding, and considerate within limits as their kids are undergoing struggles beyond their control. (READ: What you can do if your child is being bullied)

As I mentioned before, children affected with ADHD require a holistic approach in managing their behavior, and socio-emotional and cognitive development. Finding the right medical partner with the proper facilities and services will greatly help these parents to find the right treatment tailored to the specific needs of their child and their family.

Medical care is a potent tool in managing the necessary therapies and evaluation for the affected child. Parental care and understanding are not only the vital tools for a child with ADHD to live a normal life; medical professionals from trusted institutions are also a child’s partner to go beyond the limits set by misconceptions against ADHD. (READ: Why I chose a non-trad school for my child)

Overall, ADHD should not be perceived as a burden for parents to bear. In fact, children with ADHD can live normally and experience the same love and care like those of other children. With the proper medical care and parental love, a child with ADHD can integrate with society and be a contributor in building our country as we move forward. (READ: Embracing humanity: 'Yakap,' the documentary on children with special needs)

We need to stop the stigma towards ADHD and work together in ensuring a nurturing environment for every child. – Rappler.com

Dr. Susanna Padilla-Campos is the medical director of ManilaMed (Medical Center Manila). She is a pediatric endocrinologist, graduate of the UP College of Medicine, and completed her residency and fellowship at the Children’s Hospital of Buffalo in New York. She was also the former editor-in-chief of the Philippine Journal of Pediatrics from 2008-2017.

Groups lead activities to help Taal eruption evacuees recover from trauma

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LEARNING ACTIVITY. Volunteers hold a book reading activity for children evacuees at Alitagtag Covered Court in Alitagtag, Batangas on Thursday, January 16 to help them cope with the trauma brought by Taal Volcano's eruption. Photo by Nikko Leoven Pagsuyoin

MANILA, Philippines – While countless humanitarian efforts continue to provide aid through donation drives, other groups are focused on helping evacuees cope with trauma. 

Following the Taal Volcano eruption that started on Sunday, January 12, thousands of families were displaced and sought refuge in evacuation centers in Cavite, Laguna, and even Quezon for an indefinite period of time.

The volcano has been on Alert Level 4 since Sunday night, as state volcanologists warned said that a “hazardous” eruption may occur “within hours or days.”

With an imminent hazardous eruption adding to the evacuees' concerns, various groups have initiated fun performances, reading and writing exercises, and games for them in the hope of helping them cope.

Learning activities

In Alitagtag, Batangas, a group of youth volunteers organized the “Aklatahanan Project,” a storytelling activity that aims to nurture a love for reading among children. 

KIDS AT PLAY. The Alitagtag Main College Department gives crayons and coloring paper during a book reading activity for the evacuees at the Alitagtag Covered Court in Batangas. Photo by Nikko Leoven Pagsuyoin

Around 60 children in Alitagtag Covered Court and 70 children from Alitagtag Central School participated in the activity. (READ: #ReliefPH: Help communities affected by Taal Volcano eruption

In this activity, the volunteers act as storytellers to children aged 11 and below. Volunteers also lend books, teach how to read, and initiate writing and coloring exercises. 

Nikko Leoven Pagsuyoin, one of the organizers, said that this project started in October 2019 to help children develop a good reading habit. 

LEARNING IS FUN. Kids at an evacuation center in Alitagtag, Batangas, join the learning activity initiated by a group of youth volunteers on January 16, 2020. Photo by Nikko Leoven Pagsuyoin

Following the Taal Volcano eruption that displaced thousands of families, his group thought that children in evacuation centers could still learn something and make wise use of their time learning amid the difficult times. 

“Nakikita ko sa mga mata ng mga bata ang excitement…. They are always asking me kung meron ba daw Aklatahanan. Lalo na sa mga nasalanta ng bulkan, kahit isang araw pa lang namin ginagawa nakita ko kung gaano sila kainteresado,” said Pagsuyoin, who is also the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) chairperson of Poblacion East in Alitagtag. 

(I can see the excitement in the eyes of the children. They are always asking me when the next Aklatahanan would be. Especially among the evacuees, even on the first day of this  project, I already saw how interested the children were.) 

Pagsuyoin also posted photos of the activity online that led netizens to inquire about how they could donate books and school supplies for the children evacuees. 

The Development Communication 2019 Alumni Community is also accepting bulk donations such as story books, educational and learning books, pencils, ballpens, and other toys for the children in Batangas.  (WATCH: Batangueños dance the 'Subli' to quiet restive Taal Volcano

The group will be conducting “Bulk-Angat: Eduk-Aksyon” Books and Toys Donation Drive on Sunday, January 19. 

The Philippine Mental Health Association Inc. (PMHA) also called for donation of toys (old or new), storybooks, coloring books, crayons, and other art materials. 

Fun and entertainment activities 

Aside from the learning activities, fun and entertainment shows are also being held in evacuation centers. 

Arnold Allanigui, a magician and puppeteer known as Amazing Arnold, also performed magic tricks at the evacuation sites in Alfonso and Silang in Cavite; and Bolo, Bauan in Batangas. 

"Siyempre lahat naman nagbibigay ng pagkain 'di ba. But what I can give is my talent, gusto ko makabigay ng saya, mapangiti ko man lang 'yung mga evacuees.... Kasi nakakapagbigay ka ng hope eh (While everyone is giving food, I want to give the evacuees my talent. I want to bring joy to them, to make them happy in a simple way. Because [through my show] I am able to bring hope)," Allanigui said. 

MAGIC TRICKS. Amazing Arnold performs magic tricks and a puppet show for the evacuees in Bauan, Batangas on January 16, 2020. Photo courtesy of Arnold Allanigue/Facebook

He said what made his performance unique was that he shared God's word through magic and a puppet show. 

"I dont just entertain them, I share to them the right hope that is with God. Most of them rely on the government and Good Samaritans for help and forget that God exists," he added.

Allanigui is also the president of International Ventriloquist Society-Philippines (IVS.Ph) and the chairman of the Fellowship of Christian Magicians International Philippines.

BRINGING HOPE. Amazing Arnold performs for evacuees in Alfonso, Cavite, on January 16, 2020. Photo courtesy of Arnold Allanigue/Facebook

He said that on Thursday next week, he will be with his team to perform in other evacuation centers. 

Another group of clowns and entertainment artists also performed at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Sto Tomas to lighten the mood.

 

Mozart's Guild, an official student music band of PUP-Batangas also performed to entertain. 

 

Psychological aid 

Looking into the psychological impact of the Taal eruption, a group of medical professionals has given Psychological First Aid (PFA) to survivors. 

On its orientation on PFA, the De La Salle University-Dasmariñas (DLSU-D) Center for Applied Psychology gathered more than 200 volunteers from psychology, counselling, and other allied professions on Saturday, January 18. 

This activity is in coordination with DLSU-D Student Wellness Center (SWC), DLSU-Health Sciences Institute, Cavite State University (CvSU), University of Perpetual Help, and other nearby institutions. (READ: 'Fire flew': Elders fear a repeat of the 1965 Taal Volcano eruption

Evangeline Ruga, chairperson of the DLSU-D Center for Applied Psychology, said that the PFA is an immediate response following a disaster to help survivors cope with the adverse impacts of traumatic events like volcanic eruption.

"PFA intends to make survivors feel that they are not alone in times of distress, to connect them to sources of support and to help them feel safe and confident in themselves and in their environment again.... It also intends to help them muster enough strength to go on further healing, recovery, and adaptation," Ruga added. 

The group will also orient the second batch of volunteers in the coming days before their deployment to different evacuation centers in Cavite and Batangas. – Rappler.com 

How a school in Capiz survived a rockslide and Typhoon Ursula

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LIFE GOES ON. Students of Barra Elementary School take their classes in small, humid, makeshift classrooms after Typhoon Ursula. Photo by Dorothy Andrada/Rappler

MANILA, Philippines – Barra Elementary‌ School needed help long before Typhoon Ursula (Phanfone) wreaked havoc in Capiz.

Forced to relocate after being hit by a rockslide in July 2019, the tiny school found in Roxas City struggled with a sudden lack of resources and space when they relocated to a repurposed barangay hall.

Their facilities were built as the need called for it: a shoddy bathroom set up on top of a septic tank, thin sheets of plywood to separate classrooms, and insulation sheets fixed on the celing to alleviate the heat. 

Barra Elementary School also had yet to receive any aid from the Department of Education since being hit by the rockslide last year.

Come December 25, 2019, teachers found the roof blown off their temporary learning‌ space (TLS), the wires in their classrooms torn, and all of their teaching materials wet and destroyed by the rain brought by Ursula.

Building back up

Automatically, ginmidyosan man namon sang mga teachers na mabalik siya kay bisan ano matabo, January 6 gid ya ang start sang klase (Automatically, the teachers and I made sure to put things back where they were because no matter what happens, the start of classes is on January 6),” said Barra Elementary School Principal Jonel Arcangeles. 

Aileen Arinque, Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Officer of Barra Elementary School, described the extent of the damage.

Sang pag bagyo, wala na gid ni atop. Subong lang kami kagamit sang kuryente kay sang nagligad, nagkalaukla na di tanan ang mga wires. Wala kami nag gamit kay nahadlok kami na maglupok,” said Arinque.

(When the typhoon hit, the roof was gone. We only got to use electricity recently because before, the wires were torn. We didn’t use them because we were scared they would explode.) 

WRECKAGE. A few hours after the rain stopped on December 25, 2019, damaged classrooms of Barra Elementary School greeted the teachers when they visited. Photo courtesy of Aileen Arinque

According to Arinque, the teachers and staff managed to clean and fix as much as they could before classes began. They received salvaged materials from Banica Elementary School to fix the roof. The school janitor dealt with the electrical wiring, while some of the neighboring households helped pick up the debris. 

The cleanup happened on January 2, 2019, shortly after the teachers and staff had only just finished fixing up their own houses after the typhoon. (READ: For Typhoon Ursula victims, welcoming the year would be difficult)

For Arcangeles, it was only a necessary step to take. Bahala na kung ano maabot sini, basta ang importante lang maka-serve kami sa mga bata,” he said. “Ano pa gid purpose namon sa kalibutan?

(Come what may, the important thing is that we can serve the children. What else is our purpose in this world?)

Aid and donation

On January 1, Climb Against Cancer (CAC), a nonprofit organization of volunteer mountaineers, began accepting donations in cash and in kind for a relief goods operation in Capiz.

Nini Sacro, CAC founder and a Capizeña herself, started asking friends and family to help identify villages that were badly affected by Typhoon Ursula and had yet to receive aid from other organizations. Through her sister-in-law, she managed to hear about the situation in Barra Elementary School. 

May ara na kami actually partnership sa isa ka school sa Anhawon,” said Sacro. “Dira kami usually gahatag relief goods kag school supplies, pareho sang sa [Typhoon] Yolanda. Galing kay ginhambalan ko sang sister-in-law ko about sa Barra, and I thought na mas kailangan sila ng help," she said.

(We actually already have a partnership with a school in Anhawon, Capiz. That’s where we usually give relief goods and school supplies, like after [Super Typhoon] Yolanda. But I was told by my sister-in-law about Barra, and I thought that they needed help more.)

Sacro and other CAC volunteers soon visited the school to help the students. 

On January 13, all 330 students of Barra Elementary School received school supply kits, which consisted of a plastic envelope with notebooks, crayons, pencils, erasers, and a sharpener. Students in grade 3 and below were also given small stuffed toys.

FOR THE KIDS. Climb Against Cancer founder Nini Sacro explains her group’s advocacies to the students of Barra Elementary School on January 13. Photo by Dorothy Andrada/Rappler

Parang pantawid lang for the last 3 months na may sulod pa kamo. It’s our honor na madala ni namon sa inyo (It’s like a bridge for the last 3 months that you still have class. It’s our honor to bring these to you)," Sacro told the students. 

BRIGHT HOPES. Barra Elementary School students in Roxas, Capiz receive school supplies kits from Climb Against Cancer on January 13. Photo by Dorothy Andrada

The CAC‌ volunteers were also assisted by teachers from Capiz National High School led by Sacro’s sister-in-law Hally Andrada, who helped coordinate the operation while CAC was still in Manila.

Later that afternoon, CAC‌ agave 100 grocery packs to victims in Barangay Tanque, where Sacro grew up.

The work waits

Ernie Borreros, the Barangay Captain of Barra, stood by during the operation with a watchful eye.

Thankful gid kami kay tungod na nagpanghatag di ang Climb Against Cancer sang school supplies, maibanan sang gastos ang mga parents kay may gamit na ang mga bata nila,” said Borreros. 

(We’re thankful since Climb Against Cancer gave school supplies, the expenses of the parents are reduced because their children already have the things they need.)

He had suggested that the school move into the barangay hall after they were forced to relocate. “Kadamo na sang amon naagyan (We’ve already been through a lot).

Capiz declared a state of calamity in the aftermath of Typhoon Ursula, along with Aklan, Leyte, and Eastern Samar. (READ: Areas under state of calamity due to Typhoon Ursula). 

To add to their troubles, Capiz was also hit by a magnitude 4.8 earthquake that was centered in the town of Dumarao on December 26.

Borreros added that they need materials to help rebuild houses in the area.

Ang problema di namon subong, balay, kay majority gid nawasak.  Gahulat kami na may maabot na materials kay may gin-offer ang iban na NGO  pero so far wala pa man,” he said.

(The problem we have right now are the houses because so many of them were damaged. We’re waiting for materials to arrive because they were offered to us by some NGOs, but so far we haven’t received any.)

The damage done to the barangay was still being assessed by the city government. They had only received grocery packs, so far. (READ: IN PHOTOS: Buildings, homes destroyed as Typhoon Ursula batters parts of Visayas) 

Barra Elementary School still faced several problems. Their recently implemented shifting system, with one section being taught in the morning and another one in the afternoon, barely had any breaks in between classes. Students would get restless and the teachers, overworked. 

Whenever it would rain, the students in the classrooms still got wet because the water leaked through the holes in the roof. They still lacked the space and facilities to make the school conducive for learning. (READ: Aklan rushes repair of schools damaged by Typhoon Ursula)

Tani makita man na kinahanglan namon sang buligIndi kaluoy, kundi bulig.” (I hope it can be seen that we need help. Not pity, but help),” said Arcangeles.

Donations to Barangay Barra, Barangay Tanque, and other affected areas in Capiz and other provinces would be greatly appreciated. More details on how to help can be found on Rappler’s #ReliefPH storypage on Typhoon Ursula. – Rappler.com

Dorothy Andrada is a Rappler mover from Roxas City, Capiz. She is currently based in Quezon City as a college freshman at the Ateneo de Manila University.

Over 130 homegrown films find home in Iloilo's regional film festival

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THE CHANTERS. CineKasimanwa also served as a homecoming of sorts for award-winning film 'The Chanters' directed by James Robin Mayo. Screenshot courtesy of CineKasimanwa

ILOILO CITY, Philippines – The regional cinema is alive in Iloilo.

The Western Visayas Film Festival dubbed CineKasimanwa hosted some 137 homegrown short and full-length films on its 7th year.

First founded and championed by veteran Ilonggo filmmaker Elvert Bañares in 2013, CineKasimanwa catered as host to some 700 local and international films in its 7-year history, reigniting interest in regional independent cinema and empowering local filmmakers in Western Visayas.

The film festival remains to be the largest region-based celebration of cinema in the Philippines. 

With the theme "One Visayas Islands," the festival kicked off on December 6, 2019, and ran until late that month, showcasing more than 130 films in 4 major Iloilo cinemas: SM City Cinema Iloilo, Festive Walk Iloilo Cinema, Cinematheque Center Iloilo, and the University of the Philippines (UP) Visayas  Cinematheque. There were also satellite screenings at the Negros Museum in Bacolod City.

However, due to popular demand and the support of the local government, CineKasimanwa’s run has been extended on its 7th iteration, to coincide with the festivities of Iloilo’s annual Dinagyang Festival celebration. 

KUNTENTO. Charlton John Jocson's 'Kuntento' bags the Best Short Film at the CineKasimanwa 2019 Winners' Circle Competition. Screenshot courtesy of CineKasimanwa

 

The renewed CineKasimanwa program called "Hala Bira! Sinema" features highlights and award-winning films from the previous year’s lineup. 

This will run until January 24, the eve of the Dinagyang Festival weekend. Admission is free.

‘Relevant Regional Lens’

“The role of a filmmaker is to hold a mirror to reality, pagsaysay niya sing suguilanon sing iya tiempo (retelling the stories of his time),” CineKasimanwa festival director Noel G. de Leon told Rappler. 

“What CineKasimanwa has done is to enable local directors to narrate stories through our own unique and relevant personal lens as Ilonggos, as regional filmmakers. Regional cinema in Western Visayas is definitely alive,” De Leon added.

An integral part of the annual CineKasimanwa is the Western Visayas Film Grants Program spearheaded by the Department of Tourism (DOT)-Western Visayas, with the support of DOT-6 Regional Director Helen Catalbas, who co-founded the festival with Bañares.

JURY PRIZE WINNER. 'Singkal' by Rovic Lopez of the John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University bags the the CineKasimanwa 2019 Student + Youth Film Competition Jury Prize. Screenshot courtesy of CineKasimanwa

 

With the grant, the DOT subsidized the production of 7 films in 2019 – all recounting compelling local stories and featuring popular Western Visayan locales and tourist destinations.

The 7 Western Visayas Film Grants Program recipients are the main feature films of the 7th CineKasimanwa Film Festival:

  • Subli (Inheritance) by Kenneth de La Cruz, a full-length folkloric mystery drama shot in Iloilo and Guimaras Island
  • Abel’s Revolution by Julius De La Peña, a short psychological drama set in Negros Occidental 
  • Dungan: The Spirit Within by Kyle Fermindoza, a full-length post-apocalyptic drama shot in Antique and Iloilo 
  • Ang Imo Duyan Sa Panganod (Your Hammock In the Clouds) by Dennis Hubag, a domestic drama set in Guimaras
  • Exorcismo by Carlo Navarrete, a horror short shot in Silay City, Negros Occidental
  • Ang Tumuluo (The Faithful) by Aldrich Rosano, a thriller short film set in Cadiz City and Bacolod City, Negros Occidental
  • Azucar (Sugar) by Kurt Soberano, a romance drama shot in Negros Occidental

On its 7th year, CineKasimanwa also served as a homecoming of sorts for the award-winning film The Chanters directed by James Robin Mayo. 

Set in rural Calinog, Iloilo, The Chanters follows 12-year-old Sarah Mae (played by Jally Nae Gabaliga) of the indigenous Panay Bukidnon tribe, and her grandfather Ramon (Romulo Caballero), one of the last living bearers of their community’s rich oral tradition.

Told entirely in Hiligaynon and Kinaray-a, the film features a cast of entirely local and largely first-time actors. It was premiered during the 2017 QCinema International Film Festival, earning Gabaliga the Best Actress plum, and Mayo the Best Screenplay award. 

CineKasimanwa’s screening of The Chanters was one of the highlights of the film festival. This also paved the way for members of Calinog’s Panay Bukidnon community, including Caballero and Gabaligo to witness the film on the big screen for the first time. 

The Chanters also bagged awards during the 2018 Urduja Film Festival as the Best Heritage Film, Best Director, Best New Actor (Caballero), and Best Young Actress (Gabaliga) awards.

For its role in championing regional films, CineKasimanwa was also recognized by the Film Development Council of the Philippines as one of the country’s luminary film festivals in September 2019, for its Sine Sandaan tribute in celebration of 100 years of Philippine cinema.

The regional festival has proven instrumental in empowering Western Visayas’ burgeoning group of young filmmakers. CineKasimanwa’s Student + Youth Film Competition, for instance, remains to be a fertile ground for the region’s fledgling talents. 

Notably, after a windfall of awards in the 2018 CineKasimanwa Festival, young Ilonggo directors Richard Jeroui Salvadico and Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay made waves in the 2019 national Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino with their short film Chok, winning the Audience Choice trophy in the Sine Kabataan showcase.

BEST SHORT FILM. 'Utwas,' a film by young Ilonggo directors Richard Jeroui Salvadico and Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay, 
 wins CineKasimanwa 2019 Student + Youth Film Competition Best Short Film Award. Screenshot courtesy of CineKasimanwa

The budding filmmakers Salvadico and Sumagaysay similarly dominated the 2019 CineKasimanwa Student + Youth Film Competition, their winning entry Utwas set to represent the Western Visayas in the upcoming Cinema Rehiyon in Dumaguete – along with other big winner Singkal by Rovic Lopez of the John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University.

Here is the full list of winners of the 2019 CineKasimanwa Film Festival:

Student + Youth Film Competition

  • Best Short Film: Utwas, Richard Jeroui Salvadico and Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay 
  • Jury Prize: Singkal, Rovic Lopez 
  • Best Director: Richard Jeroui Salvadico and Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay for Utwas
  • Best Female Performance in a Film: Joane Paulet Libo-on, Gulut-anon Nga Dulot
  • Best Male Performance in a Film:  Aljon Flores, Singkal
  • Best Screenplay: Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay for Gulut-anon Nga Dulot
  • Best Cinematography : Richard Jeroui Salvadico for Utwas
  • Best Production Design: Singkal
  • Best Editing : Utwas
  • Best Sound Design and Recording: Singkal
  • Best Original Score: Singkal
  • Best Original Theme Song: Kasiguradohan, composed and performed by Brian Angelo Vargas and Kayne Alag; arranged by John Randie Orbe

Winners’ Circle Competition

  • Best Short Film: Kuntento, Charlton John Jocson
  • Jury Prize: Sikway, Daniel Jeff Telic 
  • Best Director: Charlton John Jocson
  • Best Actor: Marco Cornejo, Kuntento
  • Best Actress: Krissele Kate Anotado, Sikway
  • Best Screenplay: Kuntento
  • Best Cinematography: Kuntento
  • Best Editing: Kuntento
  • Best Supporting Actress: Vienne Yap, Kuntento
  • Best Supporting Actor: Jason Gonzales and Axl Arceo, Kuntento

CineKasimanwa and the Western Visayas Filmmakers Network partnered with the Iloilo Festivals Foundation Incorporated, the Iloilo City government, and the Office of Iloilo City Councilor Jay Treñas to be part of the first Hala Bira! Dinagyang Arts Festival. 

For the full schedule of screenings, you may check CineKasimanwa’s official Facebook page– Rappler.com 

Rhick Lars Vladimer Albay is a Rappler Mover based in Iloilo. He reports mostly on the local cultural community and art scene.

Group urges public to donate usable clothes to evacuees

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DONATED CLOTHES. Survivors of Taal Volcano eruption flaunt the school uniforms and working attires from donated clothes received. Photos from Racheal Zuñiga Maestro, Judiel Balani, Harlem Dave Ganados and Philip Mangubat

MANILA, Philippines – As relief donations continued to pour in for affected communities in Batangas, a disaster management organization reminded the public to be mindful of the clothes they donate to families displaced by the ongoing Taal Volcano eruption. 

The reminder came after photos of evacuees wearing school and work uniforms – all donations – made rounds on social media. (READ: Batangas gov't: More than 160,000 evacuees as Taal Volcano still rumbles

Some netizens applauded how evacuees rocked the inappropriate clothes they received, and commended their seeming' resillience and ability to find humor in the midst of a crisis.

But while others found the photos funny, the Citizens' Disaster Response Center used the occasion to remind the public to donate clothes that evacuees need and could still use. (WATCH: Taal evacuees rummage for clothes that fit)

"Let us treat the survivors with dignity," the disaster management group said in a statement on Friday, January 17. (READ: #ReliefPH: Help communities affected by Taal Volcano eruption

The group also called on those accepting and distributing relief to sort the donations before distribution and ensure that the clothes are appropriate for those who will receive them.

 

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) also discouraged the donation of used clothing to disaster survivors. 

The nearly 54-year-old Republic Act No. 4653 prohibits the importation of used clothing and rags. 

This is done to avoid health hazards which may be transmitted through used clothing and also to support the local garment industry.  

According to the Batangas  Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (PDRRMC), 37,355 families or 162,728 individuals were staying in various evacuation centers – excluding those who decided to stay with their relatives and friends. – Rappler.com 

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