The Urban Walker

No free rides on Jan. 9 for Black Nazarene Devotees

2014-01-07T11:14:00.000+08:00

There will be no free ride for the Black Nazarene devotees on January 9 (Thurs), the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) said on Tuesday.

Wala po Libreng Sakay sa LRT sa darating na 9 January 2014, Thursday, Pista ng Itim Nazareno.
— Hernando T. Cabrera (@attycabs) January 6, 2014

Devotees are expected to troop to Luneta and Quiapo on the said date. As per past conducts of the feast, LRT ridership tend to increase as people flock to Manila's busy district Quiapo.

That said, LRTA spokesman Cabrera said, barefoot passengers will be allowed to board the LRT trains.

Mga nakayapak na deboto ng Poong Nazareno papayagan na makasakay sa tren ng LRT sa darating na 09 January 2014, Pista ng Itim na Nazareno.
— Hernando T. Cabrera (@attycabs) January 6, 2014

The feast of the Black Nazarene is when a "life-sized, dark wooden sculpture of Jesus Christ carrying the cross" is being carried out for public veneration.

Urban walkers out there - beware of the increase traffic volume on the said date. Better plan your routes wisely.

LTO goes after abusive taxi drivers, again

2013-12-09T15:38:00.002+08:00

The Land Transportation Office launches Oplan Isnabero! News like these is of course a sweet ring of the bell but if the trend is just turning round and round in a vicious cycle, it's a different story. It could be just another piece of dismay.

So much so, if the program is only active at the initial phases.

A lot of us got tired of these kinds of taxi drivers in the metro. Let's hope that Director Mohammad Yusoph Lamping of LTO’s law enforcement service is out there to really ensure that his men will really impose / implement the rules continuously, not fading into oblivion as days pass by.

This has been the trend, there's no denying.

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) warned the abusive taxi drivers to beware as LTO personnel are out there to observe and apprehend them.

Lamping said:

Iniikot natin ‘yung different malls in Metro Manila, ‘yung mga commercial area, at ‘yung lahat na may pampublikong sasakyan, taxi man yan bus, jeep o FX para mabigyan ng proteksyon yung ating mananakay laban sa mga [taxi na] hindi nagpapasakay at umiiwas sa pasahero

Apela natin sa mga taxi driver at sa mga transport operator na ‘wag mamili ng pasahero. Pag nasa taxi bay na po iyan ay pasakayin na ‘yung mga nakapila na mga ta

Sa observation natin ngayon, mukhang kulang din ‘yung mga taxi lalo na pag sa hapon at gabi especially around rush hour mga 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

This reminds me of a reading related to dynamic transport supply and demand management. Anyways, let the government perform its roles.

Whatever turnout this effort would bring in, the erring or apprehended drivers will be fined with - "P1,700 plus a 45-day revocation of the driver’s license.", as per Lamping's statement.

You may report such abusive taxi drivers or operators to LTO via its hotline number 927-1851 or text 0998-9768-273.

You can also use this tool to report abusive taxi drivers, made by Taxikick and Taxikiss.

QC Councilor pushed higher fines for jaywalkers

2013-12-02T16:07:00.001+08:00

I will be upfront on this - unless strict implementation can be worked out to the utmost, this new set of fines might just end up as an additional source of bribery.

News had it that a Quezon City councilor seeked to impose higher fines for jaywalkers in the city. He cited that:

The penalties provided in (the city’s anti-jaywalking ordinance) are outdated and should be amended to be relevant to present monetary values

Stiffer sanctions will discourage jaywalkers and thus, promote safety for the pedestrians, 5th district councilor Aly Medalla said.

In the said proposed ordinance, violating individuals shall be fine with the following:

First offense: "P100 fine or eight hours of community service from the current P30 penalty."

Second offense: "P300 or complete 16 hours of community service, up from the current P50 fine."

Third offense: "P500 or complete 24 hours of community service from the current P100 penalty."

In this proposed amendment of the current anti jaywalking law, the offender's case shall be filed in court.

Seriously, we already have too many laws but even an elementary grade student can easily conclude that what is lacking is strict implementation. While other cities in the Metro (or perhaps, just one?) are strict in dealing with jaywalkers, Quezon City is rather loose in its take.

You can see road barriers full of "No Jaywalking" or "Walang Tawiran Nakamamatay" signs but pedestrians don't seem to mind.

Watch this video I once posted on Facebook - in SM North Edsa, crossing from the public transport terminal to the mall entrance, EDSA side.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10200908347901555&l=7096392759731373611

We just can't follow, can we? Not even a simple traffic signal, saying while at RED, you don't cross.

Nevertheless, good luck with the passing of this ordinance.

The Hunt for Emerging Influential Blogs 2013 - My nominees

2013-08-28T01:20:00.002+08:00

A year ago, The Urban Walker was nominated and won a spot in the Emerging Influential Blogs 2012. Time flies so fast and now, the same blog recognition project is on for the influencers of 2013.

This year is the 7th year for the long running writing project and it is awesome to be within it or a part of it.

I've been seeing various new and fresh budding blogs in my blog networks and social media connections and from what I can see, the thing has grown and matured differently. Gaining influence online is way far robust these days, specially with the help of social media tools. With that, allow me to share to you ten (10) blogs that I see emerging and influential.

Here goes my list for the Top 10 Emerging Influential Blogs 2013:

1. San Josenyong Gala (http://sanjosenyonggala.blogspot.com/) - This blog of a librarian from San Jose Del Monte is but a precious element of the fulfillment of his childhood dream - to travel the many great places of the Philippines. He seems to enjoy the ride and is very passionate in his new found media.

2. Curlydianne (http://www.curlydianne.com) - Curlydianne is under the custodianship of a blogger from Taguig City, Metro Manila, Dianne. She is a marathon / running enthusiast and a food and fashion explorer as well. Her blog is a heavy fusion of sports and entertainment buzz.

3. TereSay (http://teresay.com/) - What can you expect from a web content writer since 2005? Teresa's blog is one of the blogs around where you can find the real meaning of passionate writing. If you need some great reads on finance, advocacy and education, Teresay.com is your place to be.

4. Wazzup Pilipinas (http://WazzupPilipinas.com) - This is by far the most progressive community blog I've known, of course under the management of its very energetic founder Ross. Since establishment, a lot of meaningful engagements through events and such related to urban living have already been done. The blog's network is growing so fast; If you are one of its members, you know what I am trying to say.

5. Saranghae Korea (http://www.saranghaekorea.com/) - If you plan to visit or perhaps spend some years in South Korea, this blog can be your perfect eye opener. If you want some load of food and entertainment adventures, SaranghaeKorea is your place on the web to hop in.

6. If You Look Closely, Stu Traveled! (http://stutraveled.blogspot.com/) - A blog from a Sporty Guy which can be labeled as the rich mix of civic, sports and entertainment updates.

7. The Traveling Panda (http://www.mikelaagan.com) - The Traveling Panda is owned by a Pangasinense who grew up in the urban jungle of Metro Manila. His adventures brought him into the realm of mountaineering and photography and is now aspiring to become an "advocate of Philippine tourism" with his vivid stories and photographs.

8. Social Media PH (http://socialmediaph.net) - Five months of being online and this blog is a budding social media news hub. I like the fact that its contents go hand in hand with the author's passion for blogging. With that, I shall be expecting a more dramatic growth in terms of social reach and influence, soon.

9. TechBuzz.ph (http://techbuzz.ph) - I am all envious with the energy this blog's author has. If you are looking for some intensive gadget and related tech buzzes and reviews, Tech Buzz is the name.

10. Barako Newsline (http://barakonews.blogspot.com) - A news blog that was created sometime in April this year. While it readies to acquire its own domain name, this blog hopes to venture into more dynamic news provision in the future.

This project would not be possible without the kind support from Optimind SEO Company, Infinity Hub, E-Commerce Boot Camp, and Digital Influencer Boot Camp.

If you got a blog sitting out there and is qualified, that is, at least 3 months old by the time of joining the writing project and have no less than 10 blog posts since its creation, why don't you jump in? Benefits such as getting link love, meeting bloggers and receiving traffic are all out there waiting for you.

Take a look at the details here: http://www.influentialblogger.net/2013/06/join-top-10-emerging-influential-blogs.html

Good luck to my nominees!

Ceres Bus Accident in Cebu City

2013-08-25T23:54:00.003+08:00

At least 1 dead while eight were hurt in a bus accident in Cebu City involving CERES bus. It might be too early to form a conclusion but accidents like these could have been prevented, infrastructure wise. According to Cebu Daily News, the bus fell after on its side after hitting a roadside concrete wall.

This brings to mind the importance of properly designed road crash barriers. To add to it, proper maintenance should be one of the top priorities before any trip has to be carried out. Apparently, the accident was caused by a brake malfunction.

Honestly, I have been looking forward for the full blown implementation, or at least major parts of what has been recommended out of the iRAP project.

iRAP or International Road Assessment Programme was a project awarded to the Philippines in 2011, to assess and rate its roads' safety.

But then again, at the end of the line, a sound project is still impotent if not coupled with sincere and strong political champion-ship.

Philippine Navy got Social Ship - Documents and Updates Trip on Twitter, Blogs and Facebook

2013-07-10T11:25:00.001+08:00

If there is one thing that every Filipino can tune into, online to learn about the life our marine corps and crews while on a journey, it must be this new Philippine navy vessel (BRP Alcaraz) with specially assigned officers to update things over Twitter, personal blogs and Facebook.

There is actually a project between the Philippine Navy and the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office (PCDSPO), where 3 Navy officers were sent to document the ship's trip from San Diego, California, to the Philippines. Com Gilbert Pacio, Navy Lt Marineth Riano Domingo, and Lt Jr Grade Errol de la Cruz have been given the said assignment.

Here goes the portals where you can follow and subscribe in order to receive news and updates from the crews on board BRP Alcaraz:

Live blog in the Philippine Navy's website: http://www.navy.mil.ph/alcaraz/
Personal blog of Errol de la Cruz: http://allaboutedelacruz.com/
Official Twitter account of BRP Alcaraz: https://twitter.com/BRPRamonAlcaraz
Twitter account of Philippine Navy: https://twitter.com/PN_Speak
AFP Twitter: https://twitter.com/TeamAFP

A warning for taxi commuters [VIDEO]

2013-07-05T17:00:00.002+08:00

This is a total dismay, specially for a balik-bayan or returning overseas foreign worker like Larry Jun Olis, a seaman who lost his baggage upon arriving at his boarding house in Manila.

Apparently, Larry took a taxi, a Toyota Vios with plate number TYR 919 from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 to get to his boarding house. Upon arrival, the driver of the taxi sped off with the passenger's belongings still in the trunk.

It's a sad and distasteful scene but this is one of the reasons why we are not far from our neighboring Asian countries with terrible transport services.

These mobile criminals, some in the guise of taxi drivers always get away with their modus. Perhaps, NAIA should intensify its security measures involving taxis coming in and out of its premises.

Opportunistic drivers and not to mention their instant robber transformation tendencies is sickening our aiport systems.

Here is a video of Seaman Larry Jun Solis:

Video by: news5philippines
http://www.youtube.com/news5philippines

Be warned fellows!

San Fernando La Union Goes After Colorum School Services

2013-06-06T02:33:00.001+08:00

Philippine's region 1 took a crucial step in dealing with the proliferation of "Colorum" or unregistered school service vehicles to ensure the safety of the commuting students. Most of the schools in the Philippines resumed its classes on June 3 and that means, there will be new batches of passengers to traverse the country's major thoroughfares.

The information was shared by LTO 1 Regional Director Atty. Teofilo E. Guadiz III, wherein aside from manning his region's street traffic, traffic / police officers will also be conducting monitoring operations on school buses and other school service units.

Looking at the case of Metro Manila, one cannot help but wonder about the sudden increase in number of the said vehicles. During school seasons, you see them roaming and parking almost everywhere.

Well, they don't linger around without any offenses; A lot of them do not seem to conform to their legal duty, which is to provide public conveyance. So, for the sake of proving my point, or allegation if you see it that way, I might be starting to scout for them erring school shuttles and take some photos.

To those of you who are sending their kids to schools using school shuttles and or services, make sure that their operation papers are complete and legal. Also get hold of the driver's name, address and contact number. (Image: UNTV)

The Urban Walker Attends ONE FC 9: Rise to Power

2013-06-04T02:49:00.003+08:00

Big thanks go to Mr. Victor Cui, CEO / Owner of ONE Fighting Championship (ONE FC) for the positive response on my request to cover ONE FC: Rise to Power, which took place last week, May 31. Also, the same gratitude goes to the PR coordinator for ONE FC, Gerald Ng, for the warm accommodation in order for me to watch the Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) event at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The ticket allotted for The Urban Walker

While I may be a big fan of MMA, it is equally interesting to carry on, a yet another urban commuting experience going to MOA. Coming from Quezon City to Pasay on a public transport mode is a bit challenging specially if you are not yet familiar with the route, vis-a-vis available public transport modes. Quezon City to Pasay City is roughly 20km apart and it took me about an hour to travel. My modes were: Tricycle - Jeepney - MRT (North EDSA station) - Jeepney. The long road did not hold me back from going - I must be in that arena and watch the fights.

Mall of Asia Arena

ONE FC: Rise to Power featured 5 Filipino fighters from Team Lakay namely Honorio Banario, Kevin Belingon, Rey Docyogen, Eduard Folayang and Geje Eustaquio. It was a sad sporting event to note though for the Pinoy fighters that they failed to bring home at least 1 win in their cards. Not even the title defense for Banario. In case you are curious about the overall results of ONE FC: Rise to Power, here goes the link.

To be honest, this was my ever first to watch ONE Fighting Championship and I was glad that it was conducted here in the Philippines, otherwise, attending the series will be close to impossible. Props to the CEO and his media people for the excellent job.

Here some some of the photos I took:

If you would like to watch the replay videos, just head on to the ONE FC website (http://www.onefc.com).

Better yet, connect with ONE FC via:
Facebook (facebook.com/ONEFCMMA)
Twitter (twitter.com/onefcmma) and;
YouTube (youtube.com/ONEFCMMA).

Hyundai Issues Apology for Suicide Ad

2013-04-27T03:26:00.000+08:00

Hyundai Issues Apology for Suicide Ad -- The intentions of Hyundai maybe genuine in sending the message about the importance of zero carbon emissions but sadly, it somewhat went overboard and sent another meaning which is rather distasteful than persuasive in the eyes of a common observer.

Apparently, the automaker tried to release a commercial ad video for the hydrogen-powered car ix35 with a man failing to commit suicide by using a hose to inhale the air coming out from his car's exhaust. To minimize the damages of the ad, the South Korean company decided to pull out the material.

The advertisement video was made by the European unit of Innocean Worldwide Corp, an advertising firm that is partly owned by Chung Sung-yi, an offspring of Hyundai Motor Group. The firm's apology went as:

..deeply and sincerely apologize for any offence or distress

Some degree of damages have already emerged with the early batches of people who saw the ad video. Holly Brockwell, a digital copywriter in London remarked:

I understand better than most people the need to do... something talkable, even something outrageous to get those all-important viewing figures. What I don’t understand is why a group of strangers have just brought me to tears in order to sell me a car

My dad never drove a Hyundai. Thanks to you, neither will I.

Screen captures of the Hyundai Suicide Ad for the new ix35 with 100% water emissions:

And speaking of the wrong impressions that those ads could bring, Philippines, Metro Manila for one, has got a fair share of the deal. We see buses covered with mostly, irrelevant if not too huge posters and ads to distract other motorists on the road. At some point, the essence of sending the right message gets lost due to irresponsible publication. So, just like in the old days, you still see the undying link between a car or perhaps a wheel brand and a girl on bikini. All for the spirit of sales.

Department of Health Issues Warning on Public Pools

2013-04-19T05:14:00.000+08:00

Department of Health Issues Warning on Public Pools -- Secretary Eric Tayag, Director of National Epidemiology Center (NEC) issued an advice to the public to be extra careful when taking a plunge in the public pools, as there could be a lot of diseases to be acquired.

Director Tayag said that taking a shower and washing of feet before going down the pool should be observed all the time. Urinating while in the pool is also discouraged. Although Chlorine maybe present in the water solution, the effect maybe hampered due to the large number of people in the pool.

Okay lang kung dalawa, tatlo lang naliligo, e, kung inokupa na ng lahat ‘yung pool? Mao-overwhelm ‘yung aksyon ng chlorine, lalo na ‘di ka nag-shower. Tapos ‘di nagtanggal ng make-up, tapos may mga langis ‘yung katawan mo. Lahat ng dumi nandun, dun ka pa kumakain,” babala pa ni Tayag sa isang panayam sa radyo.

Just in time for the summer craze. A lot of us maybe out in the nearby resorts to beat the heat but this reminder is a must-have in the list.

As per personal observation in Japan, kids are being asked to submit a stool sample to be tested for possible infections and things before the they can be allowed to use the pool in a kindergarten. I think this should be adopted in the Philippines, for obvious reasons.

INFOGRAPHIC: DOH Advisory on Heat Stroke

2013-04-17T17:10:00.001+08:00

INFOGRAPHIC: DOH Advisory on Heat Stroke -- Summer heat is here and for most of us who are always outside to perform daily tasks and other engagements, heat stroke is like a road side accident waiting to happen anytime. To be ready with any unwanted consequences, the Department of Health shares an infographic that illustrates the ways on how to deal with a breakdown due to extreme heat.

For your reference and guidance. Don't let the stroke heat you!

High Investor Confidence in DOTC AFCS Project Attracts Major Players

2013-04-17T16:43:00.001+08:00

High Investor Confidence in DOTC AFCS Project Attracts Major Players -- The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) and the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) are all hyped up with what has transpired in their recent call for investors to submit papers for pre-qualification to join a bidding.

The result was an awesome nine (9) consortia, involving major local and foreign conglomerates, banks, and IT companies, ready for the pre-evaluation in order to be able to take part in the bidding for the government project - P1.72-Billion Contactless Automatic Fare Collection System (AFCS).

Transport department said:

We are very pleased with the investor turnout for the AFCS Project. Serious players from the transportation, IT, banking, and retail industries – both local and foreign – all came out to seek pre-qualification to participate in the bidding of the project

The fact that these major groups want to be the our private sector partner for the AFCS Project only goes to show their trust and confidence in the Department, and in our open, fair, and transparent bidding process

List of consortia which submitted papers for the pre-qualification process:

This is brought to you by the joint DOTC-LRTA Pre-Qualification, Bids, and Awards Committee (PBAC). It has got a maximum of twenty five (25) days from April 12 to evaluate the documents submitted by the nine (9) consortia and thereby announce the list of groups that can proceed to the next round. The actual bidding for the said project is set to take place in the 3rd quarter of the year.

While the entire process maybe long and winding, considering the necessary bureaucracy to be walked through, the end product of this effort is indeed a fantastic leap towards a smarter urban transportation in the country. Automated Fare Collection System can be a big boost in the productivity and revenue realms of our rolling stocks. This is Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) working its way to a smarter urban Manila.

DOTC Moves Laguindingan Airport Opening for Passenger Convenience

2013-04-17T15:07:00.001+08:00

DOTC Moves Laguindingan Airport Opening for Passenger Convenience -- In order not to disrupt the influx of vacationers or those who were already set to spend a trip this summer, the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) announced that it pushed back the;

..transfer of the gateway to Northern Mindanao from the old Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro City to the new P 7.8-Billion Laguindingan Airport by one-and-a-half months to June 15, 2013

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines’ (CAAP) has been doing good jobs in the preparations side of things. The opening has been scheduled on the 30th of April. However, due to the aforementioned reason, airline companies argued that pushing through with the schedule will require several cancellations of daily trips, hence it was demanded that the opening shall be done after summer season. At some point, it is cumbersome and costly to cancel already-set flight itineraries.

The DOTC further said:

It is in the best interest of the government and of the airlines to deliver safe and convenient services to the public

As we took stock of the assessment of both CAAP and the airline companies that the Laguindingan Airport is already a safer alternative to the Lumbia Airport, we again listen to their inputs saying that postponing the transfer will be better for passenger convenience.

The airlines operating at Cagayan de Oro are: Cebu Pacific Air, Philippine Airlines, PAL Express, and Zest Air, serving a combined total average of more than 2,000 passengers daily.

Great hopes and vibes go to this up and coming gateway for tourism for the Philippines through CDO's aviation facility. Let's hope that this project is a set of forward steps towards the improvement of level of service of the airport services in the country.

The same goes for the full implementation of the airport's "air navigation equipment", which will be fully in-placed by the year 2014.

Iron Man 3 Schedule at IMAX Mall of Asia

2013-04-12T14:36:00.000+08:00

Iron Man 3 Schedule at IMAX Mall of Asia -- Hey movie buffs! Are you geared up for the coming of Iron Man 3 this 24th of April? You better be or you will miss one of the most awaited installments of an action, sci-fi thriller film in history. Well, since SM Mall of Asia rolled out a news regarding its 24 hrs operation during the showing of the movie from the opening day until May 1, you better mark your calendars when to indulge the movie craze.

So here we go for the Iron Man 3 Schedule at IMAX Mall of Asia (MOA):

April 24, 2013
10:00AM, 1:00PM, 4:00PM, 7:00PM, 10:00PM

April 25, 2013
1:10AM, 4:10AM, 7:10 AM, 10:10AM, 1:00PM, 4:00PM, 7:00PM, 10:00PM

April 26, 2013
1:10AM, 4:10AM, 7:10AM, 10:10AM, 1:00PM, 4:00PM, 7:00PM, 10:00PM

April 27, 2013
1:30AM, 5:00AM, 8:30AM, 11:30AM, 2:30PM, 6:00PM, 9:30PM

April 28, 2013
1:10AM, 4:10AM, 7:10AM, 10:10AM, 1:00PM, 4:00PM, 7:00PM, 10:00PM

April 29, 2013
1:10AM, 4:10AM, 7:10AM, 10:10AM, 1:00PM, 4:00PM, 7:00PM, 10:00PM

April 30, 2013
1:10AM, 4:10AM, 7:10AM, 10:10AM, 1:00PM, 4:00PM, 7:00PM, 10:00PM

May 01, 2013
1:10AM, 4:10AM, 7:10AM, 10:10AM, 1:00PM, 4:00PM, 7:00PM, 10:00PM

For more information, visit SM Cinema Mall of Asia at facebook.com/SMCinemaMOA and or follow it on Twitter via Twitter.com/smcinema_moa.

MNTC Funds Road Safety Research Lab Upgrade

2013-04-12T05:02:00.000+08:00

MNTC Funds Road Safety Research Lab Upgrade -- The Manila North Tollways Corporation (MNTC) funded the road safety research laboratory upgrade of University of the Philippines' (Diliman) National Center for Transportation Studies (NCTS). Included in the worth 1.89M fund are the following:

Three (3) units of handheld GPS
A Lidar Gun
A personal computer and;
New software including TSIS-CORSIM, Highway Capacity Software (HCS 2010) and Synchro Studio 8.

The said equipments and software are hoped to improve the road safety laboratory, thereby raising its standards on road safety education in the Philippines.

The turnover ceremony was conducted yesterday (April 11), where MNTC Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan, UP President Alfredo Pascual, NCTS Director Dr. Sean Palmiano, Dr. Ricardo Sigua, the NCTS road safety lab head and the rest of the center's staff and personnel are among the attendees. The occasion also had the unveiling of the NLEX Road Safety Research Laboratory Marker.

MNTC's close partnership with UP is in line with the United Nations and Road Safety's Decade of Action of Road Safety, which was started in 2011.

The National Center for Transportation Studies is dedicated to promoting research and training on urban and regional transportation in the country under the premise of sustainability and improved road safety.

On the same line, on April 11, yours truly will be delivering a special lecture on iRAP (International Road Assessment Program), at the regular training of NCTS on Road Safety Audit. Well, hopefully, I can get my hands on the new software donated to our office.

Ban on Campaign Motorcades on 19 Major Roads in Metro Manila

2013-04-09T05:12:00.003+08:00

Ban on Campaign Motorcades on 19 Major Roads in Metro Manila -- The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) formalized on Monday the proposed move to impose a motorcade ban on 19 major roads in Metro Manila. The implementation will be late for at least a week though, following the protocol wherein a 7-days period has to be provided to give way to official publication.

MMDA Chairman Tolentino said that due to the above-mentioned sort of a grace period, Metro Manila motorists may still see some motorcades on the major roads mentioned in the resolution. Violators will face certain sanctions for election violations.

The 19 Major Roads in Metro Manila where motorcades and caravans are prohibited, are the following:

Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (EDSA)
C-5 Road
Quezon Avenue
Marcos Highway
Commonwealth Avenue
España Boulevard
E. Rodriguez Sr. Avenue
Ramon Magsaysay Avenue
President Quirino Avenue
Aurora Boulevard
Ortigas Avenue
Shaw Boulevard
MIA Road
Domestic Road
Roxas Boulevard
Araneta Avenue
A.H. Lacson Street
Rizal Avenue
A. Bonifacio Avenue

In the case of holding motorcades in the secondary roads of the Metro, MMDA chairman reminded that still, clearances have to be secured.

Join the Exercise: Hop on to 7-11 7-Election Campaign

2013-04-04T13:04:00.002+08:00

Join the Exercise: Hop on to 7-11 7-Election Campaign -- Following its success in carrying out 7-Election in 2010, 7-11 is up for yet another shot on the same activity to share with you the unique way to vote for your chosen candidates in the upcoming elections in May. In 2010, 7-Election results came up close to predicting the actual presidential winner and it's no other than PNOY.

The 7-Election promo will offer customers a fun method to vote for their preferred presidential candidate, senators and even party lists. The procedure would be: 1 cup = 1 barcode = 1 vote. Each cup bought will be representing a specific candidate.

This exercise is not new, as 7-11 in the US has been doing it since 2000. For information, here are the results garnered by the activity in America:

2000: Bush won over Gore
2004: Bush "outcupped" Kerry
2008: Obama had a BIG Gulp lead over McCain
2013: Obama won over Romney

Interesting right? Does it follow that 7-11 customers are most likely reliable source to get the feel of who will win a particular presidential election? Hop in and see what comes out!

This coming mid-term election in the Philippines, 7-11 wants to give out the same fun to its avid customers, hence there will be another opportunity to participate in a 7-Eleven Gulp, from March 20 to May 6, 2013. All 7-Eleven stores will be participating.

So basically:

Customers will be asked to vote for the party / coalition they support in the senatorial elections

Mechanics:

Customer chooses his / her cup
Customer gets the drink
Clerk scans the barcode
Clerk asks which party has been chosen before scanning
Payment

There is also an online extension of the 7-Election polls for you to vote without making a purchase. Just visit www.7-election.com.ph; Participants may only vote once, just like in the actual elections. If you are on Twitter, 7-11 7-Elections will be using the hashtag: #7Election

The leaderboards will be updated by the 7-11 stores on a weekly basis. You may also get updates from 7-11's public website, social media accounts and LED billboards located in the key transit areas of Metro Manila. Results will be published on May 7, 2013.

Head on to your nearest or preferred 7-11 store, talk the big gulp of your favorite cold drinks then choose your hypothetical candidate to join the fun exercise for the nation.

Cost of College Tuition Fees at Selected Schools in the NCR

2013-04-02T18:45:00.000+08:00

Cost of College Tuition Fees at Selected Schools in the NCR -- It is summer time again and is also a precursor to another year round wherein parents and students alike could be worrying for yet another series of tuition fee increase in their chosen tertiary schools in the National Capital Region (NCR). Here goes a follow up work of GMA News Online on its previously conducted summary notes of the tuition rates being implemented in selected state universities located in NCR.

This addendum is rather detailed in presentation as it features variables like minimum number of units in a term, average units required, including cost of tuition for 18 units and cost per term by college type, among many others. Here we go!

Thanks to this panoramic view of the tuition fees being collected in selected universities of the country, particularly those within the Capital Region. It must be noted that the fees reflected herein are still subject to changes, depending on the schools' plans and programs next year.

Philippine National Holidays 2013

2013-04-02T16:57:00.000+08:00

Philippine National Holidays for 2013 -- Planning your next itinerary for a possible series of vacations or perhaps a simple get away from your usual daily chores at home or office can be a lot easier with this concise guide to Philippine National Holidays 2013.

Presented in an exquisite infographic work, the holidays as reflected in the dates below are actually taken from Proclamation No. 459, s. 2012 (http://www.gov.ph/2012/08/16/proclamation-no-459-s-2012/):

Declaring the Regular Holidays, Special (Non-Working) Days, and Special Holiday (for all schools) for the Year 2013

Here goes the calendar:

This is also found in the tumblr account of Philippines Offical Gazette online.

Holiday Inn Opens in Makati, Today

2013-04-01T18:40:00.000+08:00

Holiday Inn Opens in Makati, Today (April 1) -- I am quite apprehensive in making any sort of posts today after seeing a lot of social media and real life friends posting about things that are tailored for "April Fools", nonetheless, I am taking the chances. So yes, you heard it right - Holiday Inn and Suites Makati have just entered the Makati central business district and the official opening happened today, April 1 (Monday).

Holiday Inn Makati offers opening rates starting from Php 5,100 per night. If you are out for some business and travel related check-ins, you just have to check the place out. But of course, this puts on, yet added pressure to the area's existing traffic condition and access. There will be significant changes for sure, so if you are a daily motorist or commuter passing by the mentioned areas, expect some dramatic, if not drastic changes to your choice of routes and travel time, vis-a-vis gas consumption and other related costs.

And at least for me, the finale is the hotel's offer of "free high speed and wireless Internet access". And how about a living room with 2 LED TVs plus a kitchenette with induction cooker to boot?

Get more details about Holiday Inn Makati through its official website at: www.holidayinn.com (Photo: http://www.interaksyon.com)

Civil Aeronautics Board to Increase Fees and Charges This Year

2013-04-01T12:12:00.001+08:00

Civil Aeronautics Board to Increase Fees and Charges This Year -- Aviation news for the urban flyers and airline operators! The Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) is cooking up a scheme, which puts on certain increases in fees, penalties and charges this year. Said deputy executive director of CAB, Porvenir Porciuncula:

With the new issuance, we expect that it will be approved this year. We will revisit our earlier proposals

The board eyes on an over 20 percent increase in 2013. This move takes on an Administrative Order No. 31, which allows agencies to review rates for charges in services and may apply necessary adjustments.

After the May elections in the Philippines, CAB will be submitting its proposal to the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC). Added Porciuncula:

Under the law, the maximum penalty is P5,000. That was in 1952 (Republic Act No. 776 or An Act to Reorganize the CAB and the Civil Aeronautics Administration)

Wow! Now get ready airline companies for a rather new series for you to reconsider possible offenses that the board may find at your end.

Philippine's Hottest Temperature Recorded

2013-03-30T19:07:00.000+08:00

Philippine's Hottest Temperature Recorded -- State weather bureau PAGASA shared that Philippines felt it hottest temperature this summer of 2013 with a sizzling 34.9 degrees Celsius at around 2 p.m. today (Saturday).

PAGASA Forcaster Glaiza Escollar told that today's temperature is higher than what was felt yesterday, that is 34.8 degrees Celsius.

The country is expected to be partly cloudy, while there will be isolated rain-showers and or thunderstorms in the evening.

Quite a complicated weather note for the holy week, so you might want to drop by at the nearest mall to cool down, while sipping an ice-cold Buko Maxx.

PBA Bobby Parks Sr. Dies of Laryngeal Cancer

2013-03-30T18:15:00.002+08:00

PBA Bobby Parks Sr. Dies of Laryngeal Cancer -- Fellow urbanites who are into local basketball, PBA's Bobby Parks Sr. passed away on Saturday afternoon due to cancer of the larynx. Parks breathed his last at the San Juan de Dios Hospital.

Bobby Parks Sr. had a remarkable legacy in Philippine Basketball Association, wherein he was able to win a record of 7 Best Import awards. He was also recognized in PBA's local league of Hall of Famers, highlighting his accomplishments in the sport way back in 2009.

Parks Sr. is the father of the reigning UAAP MVP Bobby Ray Parks Jr. He coached San Miguel Beermen in the Asean Basketball League. The 6'5" Memphis State University alumnus debuted in PBA in 1987.

For all the great things that Bobby Parks Sr. brought this country's sporting league to, thank you very much. May your legend lives.

3 New Helicopters for the Philippine Navy

2013-03-29T15:47:00.001+08:00

3 New Helicopters (AW109 Power Naval) for the Philippine Navy -- In order to boost maritime security and disaster response capabilities, the Philippine Navy will soon have additional naval helicopters by 2014. The air units are AW109 Power types, under a P1.3 billion contract between Anglo-Italian firm AugustaWestland and the Philippine Navy. Included in the contract are 1) initial logistics support and 2) training for aircrew and maintenance personnel.

Said Vincenzo Alaimo, AgustaWestland’s Head of Regional Sales for SE Asia:

We are delighted that the Philippine Navy has selected the AW109 Power as part of its armed forces modernisation programme after an extensive evaluation of competing types

The AW109 Power’s multi-role abilities and high performance will provide the Philippine Navy with an enhanced maritime operational capability.

The AW109 Power naval helicopters will be used by the Philippine Navy in a wide range of maritime tasks which includes "economic zone protection, surface surveillance, search and rescue (SAR) and maritime security."

Here are some of the salient features of the AW109 Power Naval Helicopters:

Fully separated fuel system
Dual hydraulic boost system
Dual electrical systems
Redundant lubrication and cooling system

These helicopters are under a negotiated procurement via Section 53.2 (Emergency Procurement) of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of R.A. 9184.

Kudos to the Philippine Navy for this added boost in their line of service. Let's hope for improved services vis-a-vis better disaster and rescue response in the future.