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Ready to watch 'Ang Probinsyano' again? Here's a list of new & returning shows on cable TV soon

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Coco Martin's "Ang Probinsyano" action series continue to evolve and subvert expectations, and it's never been more riveting to watch. But avid fans of Cardo Dalisay won't be seeing the iconic hero cop over free TV anytime soon, instead he will appear on Kapamilya Channel which will be available only on cable and satellite TV nationwide beginning June 13.

'Ang Probinsyano', other shows to return on new cable TV soon (+Video)


The new Kapamilya Channel will be available on SKY, Cablelink, G Sat, and most member-cable operators of the Philippine Cable Television Association (PCTA) nationwide.

In a press release from ABS-CBN, it said “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano” will start with a ten-episode recap of this season’s story before the new episodes are released.



Also on weeknights, the mission of brave soldiers in “A Soldiers” Heart” will continue while weekdays will unveil the family drama in “Love Thy Woman.”

“Magandang Buhay,” a morning program which stars Jolina Magdangal, Melai Cantiveros, and Karla Estrada, will be back on weekday mornings, "TV Patrol" on weekdays and a new season of “The Voice Teens” is also expected to return along with mainstay coaches Apl.de.ap, Sarah Geronimo, Bamboo, and Lea Salonga on weekends.

More movies and classic TV shows will also air on the channel.



New shows

Besides the many well-loved programs that will be going back on air, some new shows will also be launched, according to ABS CBN.

Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo will be seen every Saturday in the new show called “Paano Kita Mapasasalamatan,” while Angel Locsin will be hosting “Iba ‘Yan” every Sunday. Both of these are public service programs that will put the spotlight on stories and experiences of real people and the life challenges that they face.

“The World of a Married Couple,” the highest-rating cable Koreanovela, also makes its debut on Kapamilya Channel on June 15.


WATCH THE FULL TRAILER OF 'FPJ's ANG PROBINSYANO" NOW



Any thoughts?
Share your comments below.
Image: Screenshot from ABS CBN YouTube video

If you have read this blog post here, I like to inform you that the original post is at https://emongsjournals.blogspot.com


The new GMA AFFORDABOX could be your best digital TV alternative

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There's a new digital TV receiver box in town. And it's definitely a Kapuso — the GMA AFFORDABOX!

The new GMA AFFORDABOX could be your best digital TV alternative!

We're all TV fans. I’m certain you’re not supposed to admit that outside of therapy, but I know I’m not alone. While we enjoy our television shows, most of the times we see a lack of variety in our old digital TV boxes.

So, what’s us TV-lovin’ folks to do? Go break the monotony!



Posted over the Kapuso Admin Portal Facebook Page, the GMA Affordabox is unquestionably similar to ABS-CBN TV Plus box. It will receive digital signals and is compatible with any TV models with AV input. And because it's from GMA, we can expect a lot of Kapuso TV shows in the offing.

Looking further on the packaging, it promises a multimedia player system, personal video recorder, and supports the nationwide emergency warning broadcast system with functional auto-on alert feature. It also says there, "one-time purchase, no monthly fees."

The FB post didn't talk about the pricing, but I'm guessing it could be around the PHP 1,000 mark.

So, "mahiwaga" or not, let's expect to see more of the GMA Affordabox very soon.


Will you be ditching your old ABS-CBN TV Plus box for the new GMA Affordabox?
Share your comments down below.
Image: Screenshot from the Kapuso Admin Portal FB Page


If you have read this blog post here, I like to inform you that the original post is at https://emongsjournals.blogspot.com

Can you get arrested for cancelling food delivery orders? New law says yes

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Imagine how food delivery riders travel a long distance under the heat of the sun and even braving torrential rains and flood just to find out the order was one big scam.

Can you get arrested for cancelling food delivery orders? New law says yes

When the coronavirus hit the country, food delivery riders like GrabFood and Food Panda are now busier than ever, with takeaways and food delivery being the new normal we live in. That being said, all hands down, the food delivery service has become the greatest invention mankind has ever created... just until some pranksters and fickle-minded people mess it up.

Even during this Covid pandemic, some individuals are deliberately pranking delivery riders by providing fake addresses, or cancelling their orders at the last minute. As a result, food deliverers are unable to receive payment and end up making wasted trips.



The House of Representatives has come up with a new bill to penalize people who cancel confirmed orders burdening most delivery riders and service providers as a result.

Called House Bill 6958, or the Food and Grocery Delivery Services Act, the proposed law criminalizes the cancellation of transactions from food and grocery delivery service providers when delivery riders have already advanced the payment for the items or the items are already in transit to the customer.



If passed into law, violators will get the penalty of prision mayor or at least six years of jail time. They must also pay a ₱100,000 fine and reimburse the food and delivery service providers for the value of the items advanced by the rider. They should also pay the provider an amount of money double the fee charged for the canceled transaction.

Meanwhile, those who shame, demean, embarrass, or humiliate the delivery riders across any platform may face at least six months of imprisonment or prision correccional.



Exempted from the proposed law are (1) orders already paid for via credit card and despite its cancellation, payment will still be credited to the service provider; (2) the customer remits to the service provider any payment as a pre-condition for the cancellation of order; (3) and the delivery of the items will be or was delayed for at least an hour from the expected time of arrival and such delay was not caused by the driver's negligence.

To further the protection of service providers, HB 6958 shall require food and delivery service providers to make their customers submit a valid proof of identity and residential address or proof of billing; and utilizing video calls for verification of customer identity.



In the end, the proposed law is never intended to undermine customer rights. It's for the rights of the food delivery riders. trying to make the their day a better one by extending kindness and help. After all, the customer isn't always right.


Any thoughts?
Share your ideas by commenting.


If you have read this blog post here, I like to inform you that the original post is at https://emongsjournals.blogspot.com

Did the govt just hinted on Metro Manila going back into stricter ECQ/MECQ lockdown?

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More than 12 million people in the National Capital Region (NCR) are at risk of being plunged back under stricter MECQ conditions as a the growing number of infections causes a backslide in the nation’s return to normal.

Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque affirmed this when he announced on Tuesday that Metro Manila can revert back to a stricter form of quarantine if the number of coronavirus cases continues to spike.

Did the govt just hinted on Metro Manila going back into stricter ECQ/MECQ lockdown?

“In the case of Metro Manila, (transitioning) to MGCQ (modified general community quarantine), it’s always dependent on data. We will look at the case doubling rate, we will look at the critical care capacity,” Roque said in a Malacañang virtual press briefing, adding that the decision to revert or downgrade the measures lies with the anti-COVID-19 task force.

“If the (number of infected cases) increases, of course, there is a possibility that we won’t graduate to the next phase… If the trend continues, either we will remain under GCQ or we may go back to modified ECQ (enhanced community quarantine),” he added.

Daily change covid cases Philippines statistics as of June 10, 2020
Daily statistics of Covid cases as of June 10, 2020



If reverted to MECQ, this would mean mass transport like the MRT and LRT would again be suspended, and the number of reopened establishments will be reduced.


QUARANTINE CLASSIFICATIONS

Enhanced community quarantine (ECQ)
Localities under an enhanced community quarantine are generally ordered to stay at home and its residents are restricted from travelling to other cities or barangays. Barangay governments can issue quarantine passes allowing residents to buy essential goods outside curfew hours and within the issuing barangays's jurisdiction.

In ECQ areas, there are:
Limitations on an all forms of transportation
No physical classes
No leisure activities
Work suspensions and setting up of alternative working arrangements such as teleworking.
Ensuring the supply of food and medical products
Measures against profiteering and hoarding of essential goods
Measures allowing a 30-day grace period for loan and rental payments during the quarantine period.



Modified ECQ
Limited movement of people to get essential services and to go to work
Gradual reopening of the economy with select manufacturing and processing plants allowed to open up to a maximum of 50 percent capacity
No leisure activities
Limited transportation services for essential goods and services
Limited transportation for those going to work and for essential services
Classes are still suspended in all levels



General community quarantine (GCQ)
General community quarantine, which was introduced on May 1, is generally less stringent than ECQ. Public transportation is allowed at a reduced capacity and select businesses are allowed to operate at 50 to 100 percent of their regular capacity depending on their industry. Shopping malls are also allowed to operate, although only select stalls and stores are allowed to open.



As of June 10, 2020, there are 23,732 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Metro Manila, 4,895 recoveries and 1,027 deaths. Based on the Department of Health (DOH)’s Situation Report, the NCR accounted for a big chunk of these documented cases.

The NCR shifted to an eased-down GCQ on June 1, with local chief executives implementing localized lockdowns only on places with high COVID-19 cases.

Changes in quarantine classification are expected to take effect on June 16.


Any thoughts?
Share your ideas by commenting.


If you have read this blog post here, I like to inform you that the original post is at https://emongsjournals.blogspot.com

LOOK: Starbucks PH releases new Patrick Cabral Sarimanok tumblers

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Starbucks Philippines is getting us in the Sarimanok spirit with brand-new tumblers straight out of our cultural dreams. The coffee chain is releasing a whole slew of merchandise, including reusable tumblers that are positively covered in black and gold colors decorated with winged illustrations of the great Sarimanok.

LOOK: Starbucks PH releases new Patrick Cabral Sarimanok tumblers

Collaborating with a local artist for merchandise for the very first time, Starbucks Philippines partnered with world-renowned, multi-disciplinary artist Patrick Cabral in a collection that draws inspiration from the Sarimanok, a mythical bird of the Maranao people from Mindanao.

Patrick blends a cultural symbol with his maximalist style, creating an intricate and exuberant design.

Available in all stores starting June 9.


Price list of the Starbucks X Patrick Cabral Collection:
Double Wall Mug, 12oz. - ₱1,295
Stainless Steel Tumbler, 16oz. - ₱1,595
Acrylic Tumbler, 16oz. - ₱895
LOQI Bag - ₱595
Starbucks X Patrick Cabral Paper Card (Initial activation amount of ₱1,000)


Check out the photos below and get ready to wait in what's sure to be a lengthy line once your local Starbucks stocks up on 'em! Mind your social distancing, please.


LOOK: Starbucks PH releases new Patrick Cabral Sarimanok tumblers

LOOK: Starbucks PH releases new Patrick Cabral Sarimanok tumblers

LOOK: Starbucks PH releases new Patrick Cabral Sarimanok tumblers


LOOK: Starbucks PH releases new Patrick Cabral Sarimanok tumblers

LOOK: Starbucks PH releases new Patrick Cabral Sarimanok tumblers


LOOK: Starbucks PH releases new Patrick Cabral Sarimanok tumblers

LOOK: Starbucks PH releases new Patrick Cabral Sarimanok tumblers


Do they just look awesome to you?
Share your ideas by commenting.
Images from the Starbucks Facebook Page

If you have read this blog post here, I like to inform you that the original post is at https://emongsjournals.blogspot.com

Is putting a 'DO NOT DELAY' sign on a car's windshield against LTO traffic laws?

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The coronavirus pandemic has made driving a car through Metro Manila a difficult activity – with major roads choking with inching traffic as more people venture out of quarantine, wary of public transportation.

There is no doubt that a highly visible 'Do Not Delay' sign on a motorist's windshield will notify the traffic enforcers and other drivers that he has precious essential cargo in his vehicle, putting him ahead of everybody else. In most cases you can expect other drivers to respect that fact and hopefully they drive less aggressive around him and give him more time or room.

But one of the downsides is that a sign such as this one can be prone to abuse.

Is putting a 'Do Not Delay' sign on your windshield against LTO traffic laws?


Think about the times you've seen a 'Do Not Delay' sign in a car's windshield while driving. It piques a little bit of curiosity on your part. The sign makes you look over the car, and you have to admit, it's one of the most annoying feeling when you suddenly realize it was put there by the driver just to get pass traffic for his own convenience. In the end, you too, might get tempted to follow his example and resort to the use of this sign.



But there is one absolutely important caveat to add. Only do this if you are actually carrying an essential frontliner or cargo inside your car. The unnecessary posting of  'Do Not Delay' and any other stickers on the vehicle’s front and rear windshields is punishable under LTO laws and can result in a hefty fine.

An advisory that was posted on the Facebook page of the Land Transportation Office VII (LTO-7) says that anyone caught for the violation may be penalized under JAO 2014-01 issued by the Department of Transportation (DOTr).



“(The) placement of unauthorized stickers, or signages (“DO NOT DELAY”, etc.) on the FRONT and REAR WINDSHIELDS which affects visibility of the driver regardless of the condition of the vehicle IS NOT ALLOWED and IS A VIOLATION under DOTr JAO 2014-01″ said the LTO advisory.

“This is to distinguish LTO & other Government-issued stickers intended for windshield display,” it added.



JAO 2014-1 that was issued on June 2, 2014 provides “the revised schedule of fines and penalties for the violation of laws, rules and regulations governing land transportation.” The memo circular carries a fine ranging from PHP1,000 to PHP10,000.

LTO public advisory on 'do not delay' signs

The 'Do Not Delay' safety signs are a great idea because they remind the traffic enforcers and other drivers to be a bit more courteous. There are good reasons for and against such, but frankly, these signs aren't for everyone to use.


Have you ever placed a 'Do Not Delay' sign on your car's windshield?
Share your ideas by commenting.


If you have read this blog post here, I like to inform you that the original post is at https://emongsjournals.blogspot.com

4 commuter bike brands under ₱10,000 that you can buy directly online

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In these times of the coronavirus GCQ (general community quarantine), Filipinos have taken up cycling to commute or to keep doing some physical activity safely. Bicycle advocates have recommended cycling as the healthiest option for necessary trips to work, and the government is taking the opportunity to build kilometers of bike lanes along EDSA as a way to cope with the outbreak and the lack of public transportation.

4 mountain bike brands under ₱10,000 that you can buy directly online

Commuting by bicycle can be awesome, and it could even improve your day. Compared to traveling by car, it’s earth-friendly and wallet-friendly. But when deciding to buy the best type of bicycle for you, you have to think about on what kind of riding are you planning to do, how important is ride quality and what your budget is like.


Road bikes are fast and easy to pedal on pavement. They are not as well suited for operating off the road. Some people find the "dropped" riding position difficult to maintain, comfortably, for a long time.

Mountain bikes are harder to pedal and slower on pavement. But they have a cushy ride, an upright riding position, and can travel easily on a wide variety of surfaces.

Hybrid or cross bikes are almost as fast and easy to pedal as a road bike, while being almost as comfortable and versatile as a mountain bike.


SHOP ONLINE FOR MOUNTAIN BIKES 
There’s no shortage of mountain bikes available for purchase online these days. While some of the brands you’ll find in your local bike shop are also available online, there is another class of mountain bike brands you’ll ONLY find available for purchase online. Many of these companies seek to pass cost savings onto consumers, so if you’re shopping for a deal on a mountain bike and if you already have a good idea of the style you are looking for, be sure to check out the following exclusive direct-to-consumer brands from Lazada PH.

Click through the bicycle brands listed below to find out about the best deal, product details and availability.





Whether you opt for a basic ride or something more high-performance depends on your cycling goals and your budget. More expensive bikes are generally lighter and have better quality parts. 



If your commute is more than a few miles, or there’s any significant altitude gain between you and your place of work, buy a bike light enough.



Arrive at work in record time on a sleek mountain bike, install reflectors and lights that can be easily seen when you work late.






Adventure-ready, gravel-friendly mountain bikes can be lightweight, better at absorbing bumps in the road, and more versatile and adjustable than ever before. 


Do you have any bike-commuting stories to share?
Share your stories in the comment box below.
This post contains affiliate links. See my Disclosure page for more information.


If you have read this blog post here, I like to inform you that the original post is at https://emongsjournals.blogspot.com

Here's what it will be like to take a bus in EDSA now

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Have you ever wondered what it will be like to take a public bus in new normal EDSA? We know this will not be the most convenient way of traveling in Metro Manila in the time of Covid-19, but don’t you want to try something new?

Here's what will it be like to take a bus in EDSA now

Our bus transport system has regularly landed at the bottom of the service ladder and represent a large part of the traffic on EDSA. But the first important thing to know about bus travel is that in Metro Manila, you can get almost everywhere by bus. Buses are cheap and are often used by workers who do not own a car or prefer a bus to a train. At the end of the bus route, you can often continue your journey by other means of transportation: jeepneys, tricycles, and pedicabs.



Under the new layout of the modified lane assignment for EDSA, most bus stops will be located at the innermost section of the highway just below the MRT rail track, and the new installations looks like this one already in place at the North Avenue MRT Station.

North Avenue bus stop in front of Trinoma Landmark
North Avenue bus stop in front of Trinoma Landmark

The new bus stops are constructed in the middle of EDSA and are connected via footbridge from both sides of the highway to let pedestrians/commuters cross safely without slowing traffic. With these new designs, the buses would no longer pick up and drop off passengers on sidewalks, which greatly contributed to the daily traffic congestion on EDSA before.

Quezon Avenue bus stop in front of Eton Centris
Quezon Avenue bus stop in front of Eton Centris

Tedious to use, because one has to go up a flight of stairs, walk over the bridge before finally going down to the designated bus stop. You would just have to appreciate the views, enjoy the breeze or take pleasure from the feel of rumble from the traffic underneath. At least, you don't have to dangerously sprint across the highway just to catch a ride.



The only thing that may stir a concern is a service option for the elderly and the disabled. There are already plans in place to install lifters for PWDs and senior citizens, but only in selected areas. This means not all bus stops will have their own lifters.

EDSA corner Munoz. Bus stop under construction on center island.
EDSA corner Munoz. Bus stop under construction at the center island.

According to the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the bus stops are expected to become operational starting June 22 when the EDSA Carousel Route is officially launched. There will be five MRT stations, two LRT-1 stations and one footbridge that will be used as access to these bus stops. Some parts of EDSA that will remain without barricades in the north and in the south will be the open portions where buses can still use the old bus stops on the right side of EDSA.



MMDA also said that the buses will operate with a fixed schedule, fixed headway and fixed dispatching system. Since there will be a dedicated lane for the buses, it is expected that the travel time using public transport will now be faster, will result in more bus trips and will serve more passengers.

Are you convinced yet? What other suggestions would you add to make you consider bus travel in EDSA?
Share your ideas in the comments section below.


If you have read this blog post here, I like to inform you that the original post is at https://emongsjournals.blogspot.com


Will you get apprehended for driving on a bike lane?

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Since the coronavirus pandemic took hold in March, a cycling boom has been under way across the country. We are seeing an “explosion in cycling” in many cities, especially in Metro Manila where there is no option but to walk or bike. Cycling groups report that bicycle counts have significantly increased across Metro Manila compared to usual. In the two weeks into the general community quarantine (GCQ), they found the National Capital Region with the most growth of bicycle use.

There is no doubt about it – cycling has become the fastest-growing travel mode in Metro Manila today. And with it is the creation of new on-road bike lanes in EDSA and in most parts of the city.

Will you get apprehended for driving on a bike lane?

It’s been a little over a week since the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has started lining up the 1.2 to 1.5-meter bicycle lane along EDSA as part of the plan to set up protected bike lanes in the metropolis. The agency urged motorists to recognize the at-grade bike lane set up on EDSA to accommodate those cycling to work during the community quarantine.

But there is a lingering question asked by motorists who ply the metro route everyday: Will it be unlawful for anyone to drive on a bike lane?



The Philippine National Police (PNP) says yes.

In a statement, Joint Task Force COVID Shield commander Police Lieutenant General Guillermo Eleazar said that "bicycle lanes are for bicycle riders and they [motorists] have no business using them [for] parking or encroach [on] these lanes to overtake or to avoid traffic jams.”

Eleazar, also PNP deputy chief for operations, tasked the HPG to conduct operations to reclaim the lanes for bicycle riders after receiving numerous complaints about the misuse of bicycle lanes by some vehicle owners.



On Wednesday, at least 40 drivers of private vehicles have been apprehended and were issued with citation tickets by policemen from the PNP - Highway Patrol Group for using bicycle lanes as parking spaces in Quezon City.

"This should serve as a lesson and a warning for the motorists to respect the spaces intended for bicycle riders," Eleazar said. "This operation will continue until we are able to institute discipline among the motorists that bicycle lanes are for bicycle riders." he added.



Eleazar has warned private car drivers not to "invade" lanes designated for bicycles after receiving complaints that bicycle lanes have been used by some as parking spaces while others are using them to overtake other cars and avoid heavy traffic.

Eleazar tasked the PNP - HPG and local police chiefs to include in their regular patrols the checking of bicycle lanes to ensure that they are not being utilized by private cars.


Any thoughts?
Share your ideas in the comments section below.


If you have read this blog post here, I like to inform you that the original post is at https://emongsjournals.blogspot.com

Commuter's Guide to Modern Jeepney Routes, Fares in Metro Manila

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With the easing of Covid quarantine measures in Metro Manila, the government reopens a number of jeepney routes to try to get life in the metropolis back to something like normal. But for the time being, only the modern public utility vehicles or the "modern jeepneys," as we call them, will be allowed. They will serve areas in Metro Manila that are under general community quarantine (GCQ) as the transition into the “new normal” continues.

Commuter's Guide to Modern Jeepney Routes, Fares in Metro Manila

Below are the routes of modern jeepneys allowed to travel based on the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Omnibus Franchising Guidelines (OFG). Cashless fare payment systems are implemented and only 50% of total passenger capacity can be used to comply with social distancing measures. The minimum fare for the first 4 kilometers is Php11, and an additional Php1.50 for the next few kilometers if non-air-conditioned and Php1.80 if air-conditioned.

Initially, there are 34 routes available for the metro commuters.



MODERN JEEPNEY ROUTES

Commuter's Guide to Modern Jeepney Routes, Fares in Metro Manila

Novaliches – Malinta via Paso de Blas
Bagumbayan Taguig – Pasig via San Joaquin
Fort Bonifacio Gate 3 – Guadalupe-Market Market-ABC Loop Service
Pandacan – Leon Guinto

Commuter's Guide to Modern Jeepney Routes, Fares in Metro Manila

Quezon Avenue – LRT 5th Avenue Station
Cubao (Diamond) – Roces Super Palengke
EDSA Buendia – Mandaluyong City Hall via Jupiter, Rockwell
Divisoria – Gasak via H Lopez




Commuter's Guide to Modern Jeepney Routes, Fares in Metro Manila

Punta – Quiapo via Sta Ana
Boni Pinatubo – Stop and Shop, vice versa
Boni Robinson’s Complex – Kalentong/JRC vice versa
Nichols – Vito Cruz

Commuter's Guide to Modern Jeepney Routes, Fares in Metro Manila

Filinvest City Loop
Alabang Town Center (ATC) – Ayala Alabang Village
Vito Cruz Taft Avenue – PITX Loop Service





Commuter's Guide to Modern Jeepney Routes, Fares in Metro Manila

Bagong Silang – SM Fairview
Malanday – Divisoria via MH Del Pilar
Parang, Marikina – Cubao

Commuter's Guide to Modern Jeepney Routes, Fares in Metro Manila

Eastwood, Libis – Capitol Commons
Gasak – Recto vis Dagat-Dagatan
PITX – Lawton




Commuter's Guide to Modern Jeepney Routes, Fares in Metro Manila

Alabang – Zapote
PITX – Nichols
PITX – SM Southmall

Additional PUJ routes opened by the LTFRB on 26 June 2020:

Quirino Highway – UP Town Center
SM Fairview – Commonwealth via Regalado Ave.
QMC Loop
Tikling – Binangonan
Antipolo – Pasig via East Bank Road
Rosario – Pinagbuhatan Pasig
West Aveune – P. Noval via Del Monte
Biñan – Balibago via Manila South Road
Tramo – Sucat
San Isidro – Congressional Junction Dasmarinas

There will be another wave of additional PUJ routes to serve other parts of Metro Manila that are adjacent to provinces during the enforcement of the GCQ. Bookmark this page for updates on additional routes to be opened in the coming days.

Most modern jeepneys will use the Beep Card system and feature a speed limiter, GPS, CCTV, a dashboard-mounted camera and air-conditioning.




Safety Protocols

Jeepney drivers, conductors and passengers must wear face masks at all times, drivers or operators should provide a disinfecting foot bath for passengers to use before boarding the jeepney, and physical distancing must strictly be observed inside the jeepneys. The passenger load of each jeepney must not exceed 50 percent of its seating capacity (excluding the driver and conductor).

Passengers must be seated one seat apart and no standing passengers will be allowed. Seats to be occupied by passengers must be properly marked in the vehicle.

Should jeepney operators wish to maximize the 50 percent passenger load of the unit, impermeable barriers to separate the driver’s compartment and between rows of seats that are less than one meter apart, are allowed to be installed.



Any suggested modern jeepney routes?
Share your ideas by commenting.

If you have read this blog post here, I like to inform you that the original post is at https://emongsjournals.blogspot.com

In case you didn't know, EDSA buses can now take you from North Edsa to Makati in under 60 minutes

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After weeks under the general community quarantine (GCQ), workers in Metro Manila decided to head on to their jobs and tried what was the quickest way from their homes to their work destinations. Many people wish to traverse the frenetic north end of EDSA to the metro’s busy Makati district on a trip to their work, the lack of transportation notwithstanding.

But travelling along EDSA now isn’t as difficult as you may think.


A more accessible, convenient and faster mass transport system awaits commuters with the full implementation of the EDSA Carousel project.

According to Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Danilo Lim, designating the innermost lane of Edsa exclusively for buses will help decongest traffic, thus reducing travel time from north to south entry points of EDSA and vice versa.



“We are prioritizing the movement of more people on Edsa through a more efficient mass transport system,” Lim stressed, following the inspection yesterday of loading and unloading bays for the new bus scheme, together with several members of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Metro Manila Development.

Travel time during an inspection was 50 minutes from Monumento to MMDA office in Guadalupe, with two short stops at Main Avenue and Santolan.



As this develops, Lim said the agency's Traffic Engineering Center (TEC) is looking at the possibility of closing several u-turn slots within the stretch of the  dedicated bus lane for unimpeded travel to ensure faster mobility for the commuting public.

"I have instructed TEC to study the impact of closing the u-turn slots and find viable solutions to negate its effect," Lim said.

Lim stressed that the convenience of the commuters is the topmost priority of the agency, adding that the agency will work on the suggestions and ideas raised by the congressmen to further improve the busway system and the infrastructures. (from MMDA's Official Facebook Page)


Available bus stops


Currently, the EDSA Carousel route covers from North EDSA to Mall of Asia. The stops are North EDSA, Quezon Avenue, Cubao, EDSA Ortigas, EDSA Shaw, Ayala, Magallanes, Taft and MOA.

MMDA spokesperson Celine Pialago said the bus stops have fences, waiting sheds and markings to ensure social distancing. Concrete barriers, Pialago said, will soon replace the plastic orange barriers being used for the meantime in some of the bus stops.  The commuters can use the existing MRT and LRT infrastructure, including its elevators, stairs or escalators. The commuters can also use the existing footbridges.

Of the total 16 bus stops, 10 are ready for operations, but the MMDA expects all bus stops to be operational in the following days.


Any thoughts?
Share your ideas by commenting.


If you have read this blog post here, I like to inform you that the original post is at https://emongsjournals.blogspot.com

LIST: Did you had contact with any of these MRT ticket sellers infected with the coronavirus?

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Social distancing and mass transportation are two concepts that, quite literally, don’t sit well together. Yet even as the COVID-19 pandemic has forced he country to implement stringent physical distancing measures, the government has needed to maintain public transport services for essential workers.

But with ridership on MRT trains and buses increasing, the chances of contracting the disease can be high.

LIST: Did you had contact with any of these MRT ticket sellers infected with the coronavirus?

According to the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the MRT-3 management had traced the stations and working shifts of ticket sellers who were tested positive for COVID-19 to help the riding public determine if they had direct contact with the station personnel.

As of 6 July 2020, a total of 198 employees tested positive with the coronavirus disease, 177 of which are depot personnel, 3 train drivers, 2 Control Center personnel and 16 station personnel. The 16 station personnel who contracted the virus are ticket sellers— from North Avenue, GMA-Kamuning, Cubao and one on reserved status— and a nurse.



Below are the stations and the work shifts of the above-mentioned ticket sellers:

North Avenue
1pm to 11pm
4:30am to 2:30pm

Quezon Avenue
1pm to 11pm

GMA-Kamuning
4:30am to 2:30pm

Cubao
1pm to 11pm
4:30am to 2:30pm


Passengers who had direct contact with the infected personnel are advised to thoroughly observe their condition and undergo home quarantine to prevent the further transmission of the virus.

The MRT-3 management assures that it is doing the necessary measures to be able to maintain the health and safety of its employees and passengers, the statement added.


Suspension of MRT operations



As resolved by the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID), the MRT-3 will temporarily suspend its operations starting Tuesday, 07 July 2020.

The temporary shutdown will be undertaken to give way to reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) swab testing of all MRT-3 personnel, including those of its maintenance provider and subcontractors, to prevent further spread of the disease, and, most importantly, to protect the health and safety of both its personnel and commuters.

The duration of the temporary shutdown is currently for 5 days, or until 11 July 2020, or until RT-PCR testing confirms a sufficient number of COVID-19 negative personnel to enable resumption of at least limited operations. This means that the period of the shutdown may be shortened or extended, depending on the pace and results of RT-PCR testing. (Official DOTr-MRT3 Facebook Page)


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Image from DOTr-MRT3 FB Page


If you have read this blog post here, I like to inform you that the original post is at https://emongsjournals.blogspot.com

Here's 7 reasons why ABS-CBN flunked its franchise renewal bid, according to Congress

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What went badly for ABS-CBN during the Congressional hearings of their franchise renewal? 

We all saw the hearings at the House of Representatives for the renewal of the TV network's franchise where we sat in front of our televisions and saw, played out in front of our eyes, every ‘drama’ that can happen during a Congressional hearing.

Committee members bringing in information and inquisitions, and some throwing bombshells that poleaxed most of us because they were completely shocking and unexpected. All this within 12 gruelling marathon hearings!


The House Committee on Legislative Franchises voted 70-11, with two inhibitions and one abstention, adopting a resolution denying the franchise application of ABS-CBN Corporation to Construct, Install, Establish, Operate and Maintain Radio & Broadcasting Stations in the Philippines.

The resolution was recommended by a three-person Technical Working Group (TWG) that summarized seven key issues taken up in deliberations in the hearings on their application to renew their franchise.

Here's 7 reasons why Congress rejected ABS CBN's bid to renew their network franchise.




1. Gabby Lopez's citizenship

"In sum, Mr. Lopez's birth as a Filipino was never registered. It took him 50 years to apply for a recognition as Filipino citizen, presenting no clear and convincing evidence that his parents were Filipino citizens at the time of his birth. From birth even to the present, he continues to use his US passport. He even voted during the last US Presidential elections. All this acts taken together demonstrate a pattern and ultimately cast doubt on the Filipino citizenship and allegiance of Mr. Lopez."

The TWG said mass media companies should be 100 percent owned and managed by Filipinos.


2. PDRs (Philippine Depositary Receipts)

"The PDRs appear to have been utilized to allow foreign ownership in ABS-CBN which could have violated the 1987 Constitution."

“The impression given by the issuance of PDRs is that it was resorted to creatively allow the participation of foreigners to fully nationalized and partially nationalized activities."

The TWG said that the foreign holders of PDRs practically own 187 million underlying shares of ABS-CBN Corp., which is already 62 percent of the total.




3. Lopez family's reacquisition of ABS-CBN after the EDSA revolution

"The fifty-year [rule] does not prohibit the grant of a new franchise to the same entity upon the expiry of a previous franchise. This Committee agrees with the position of ABS-CBN."

"[But] it appears that the prescribed process for the return of the subject assets and equipment was not followed."

"This Committee is moreover perplexed why, despite the said supposed conduct of said arbitration proceedings, there was no records of said proceeding submitted to the Committee despite request by its members."


4. Digital services

"ABS-CBN, contrary to the terms of its franchise, operated its pay-per-view (PPV) channel, otherwise known as the Kapamilya Box Office, without a valid permit from the NTC."

"ABS-CBN and/or ABS-CBN Convergence, Inc. do not have a franchise as Cable TV operators, nor do they have any permit/authority from the NTC as such, yet they have circumvented the law and regulations through the ABS-CBN TV Plus Box (with multiple channels) and the KBO PPV channel which both charge the public fees."

The TWG said there is no authorization from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) on record allowing ABS-CBN to produce the TV Plus Box containing multiple channels, much less to sell it for profit.




5. AMCARA

"ABS-CBN, in doing its actual broadcasting using the franchise of AMCARA, thus obtained exclusive use and control of AMCARA's legislative franchise without the consent of Congress. This is not just a mere usufruct allowing ABS-CBN to enjoy the fruits of AMCARA;s franchise, but a fraudulent machination."

"There is thus sufficient reason for this Committee to believe that AMCARA is a mere dummy of ABS-CBN which should warrant the piercing of the veil of corporate fiction."


6. Labor Violations

"ABS-CBN's labor practices are less than exemplary."

“These former employees also declared that they were made to sign employment contracts containing a waiver of the right to regularization. Those who refused to sign an employment contract containing a waiver of regularization were downgraded to project employees and later dismissed.”

"The employees' welfare must not be sacrificed in the pursuit of profits."

The TWG said only 25 percent or 2,661 of the total 11,701 workers of ABS-CBN are regular employees. As of this writing, there are 67 pending cases against the TV company in the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) and various courts.


7. Tax Issues

“ABS-CBN earns revenues in the billions of pesos. However, through corporate layering, taking advantage of well-known tax havens such as Hungary, Luxembourg and the Cayman Islands and even through the use of our own PEZA [Philippine Economic Zone Authority] incentives, we see that only a minimal fraction is remitted to the government,”

"The study of the operations and structure of Big Dipper, however, complies with none of these objectives for which PEZA was created for."

“If we focus on the harm of tax avoidance to society, rather than how it is legally defined, then we can see that it contributes to growing inequality, increases tax burdens on resident taxpayers and undermines state legitimacy.”

“Although legal, the employment of tax avoidance schemes could undermine the integrity of a tax system.”

"The continuous practice of ABS-CBN to navigating through the loopholes of the system and our tax laws appeared to have reached the extent of depriving the government of the taxes due."




Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano had described the committee’s work as fair, impartial, thorough.

“Because of the highly partisan nature of this issue, we accepted from the start that there would be those who will vehemently disagree with the committee’s decision, no matter what they resolve,” he said.

He asked “that the people read the findings carefully in order to appreciate the reasons for their decision. And for those who do not agree, at the least, understand why the the decision had to be so.”


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What is 'People's Initiative' and why it might not work for ABS-CBN's franchise application?

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The House of Representatives’ Committee on Legislative Franchises denied the application of media network ABS-CBN for a new 25-year franchise, with 70 committee members voting in favor of the resolution, 11 against it.

Legal practitioners have suggested various remedies for ABS-CBN to have a franchise, including a very rigorous, back-breaking Constitutional recourse: the People’s Initiative. But this law is rife with complexities.

What is 'People's Initiative' and why it might not work for ABS-CBN's franchise application?


What is People's Initiative

People's Initiative (PI) is a provision in the 1987 Constitution of the Philippines allowing for a "people's initiative" as one of the modes for constitutional amendment:

ART. 6, SECTION 32
The Congress shall, as early as possible, provide for a system of initiative and referendum, and the exceptions therefrom, whereby the people can directly propose and enact laws or approve or reject any act or law or part thereof passed by the Congress or local legislative body after the registration of a petition therefor signed by at least ten per centum of the total number of registered voters, of which every legislative district must be represented by at least three per centum of the registered voters thereof.





PI is an act of pushing an initiative (national or local) allowed by Republic Act No 6735, otherwise known as "The Initiative and Referendum Act". The law seeks to provide for system of initiative and referendum to directly propose, enact, approve or reject, in whole or in part, the Constitution, laws, ordinances, or resolutions passed by any legislative body – like the Congress.

RA 6735 SECTION 3
a) “Initiative” is the power of the people to propose amendments to the Constitution or to propose and enact legislations through an election called for the purpose.
There are three (3) systems of initiative, namely:
a.1 Initiative on the Constitution which refers to a petition proposing amendments to the Constitution;
a.2 Initiative on statutes which refers to a petition proposing to enact a national legislation; and
a.3 Initiative on local legislation which refers to a petition proposing to enact a regional, provincial, city, municipal, or barangay law, resolution or ordinance.

RA 6735 SECTION 5
Requirements.—(a) To exercise the power of initiative or referendum, at least ten per centum (10%) of the total number of the registered voters, of which every legislative district is represented by at least three per centum (3%) of the registered voters thereof, shall sign a petition for the purpose and register the same with the Commission.


What the potential problems are




1. PI, according to RA 6375, must be proposed by the people upon a petition of at least ten per centum of the total number of registered voters, of which every legislative district must be represented by at least three per centum of the registered votes therein. With around 62 million voters nationwide, the petition needs approximately 6.2 million signatures.

2. PI is a rigorous and back-breaking task to convince 10 percent of all registered voters and three percent of voters in each legislative district to support an initiative that requires logistics and political connections beyond the capacity of most citizens groups.

3. PI, embodied in RA 6735 is deemed to be defective not only because it is “incomplete, inadequate or wanting in essential terms and conditions” for amending the Constitution (Santiago vs. COMELEC, 1997) but also because it restricts direct democracy and fails to ensure citizens’ informed choice. The law is unclear on even the most basic procedures, such as who prepares the wording of the initiative, the requirements for information dissemination, and the procedure for validation.




4. PI-backed national referendum is a big government expenditure. A national referendum of this scale can cost billions of pesos and months of preparation. The government spent around P4 billion in the 2018 Barangay elections alone. With the present economy sunk by the Covid-19 pandemic, the chances for the government to spend this much can be little to none.

5. PI, by law, is mandated to endorse amendments to laws meant for the public interest.ABS-CBN is a private company, thus its legislative franchise cannot be considered as pertaining to national and public interest. To classify a private corporation as such may be harmful and injurious, as other private corporations may follow suit, resulting to inequalities in terms of business opportunities.

In addition, Senate President Vicente Sotto said that private bills, like those seeking to grant legislative franchises, should “exclusively” emanate from the House of Representatives. “A private bill is mandated by the Constitution to be exclusively under the House of Representatives,” he said.

6. PI remains untested. The People's Initiative Against Pork Barrel (PIAP – remember the PDAF controversy?) was repeatedly announced in 2014 as up for launch, with Quezon City being said to have gathered around 50,000 to 100,000 signatures out of the required 177,000 signatures from the entire city territory. The PIAP then was pushing to gather 6 million signatures to force Congress to pass a law banning all types of discretionary funds. It was, however, unclear in history whether the petition was able to gather the much-needed 6 million signatures. To date, not one referendum has been held for a proposed national law.


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If you have read this blog post here, I like to inform you that the original post is at https://emongsjournals.blogspot.com

TIMETABLE - Moderna, SinoVac, Russian Vac: Exactly when will these Covid vaccines reach PH market?

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As of July 15, the world has seen three workable Covid-19 vaccine candidates – Moderna, SinoVac and the Russian Vaccine – already in clinical trials. Given how recently the COVID-19 pandemic began spreading, it might seem promising that there’s already a lot of activity on the immunization front.

You ask: if medical experts say these coronavirus vaccines has been successfully developed, when exactly are they ready to go?

TIMETABLE - Moderna, SinoVac, Russian Vac: Exactly when will these Covid vaccines reach PH market?

We all have read from the internet that a vaccine takes at least 12 to 18 months before finally reaching the production stage. Theoretically, this can be true. But not always.

The mumps vaccine—considered the fastest ever approved—took four years to go from collecting viral samples to licensing a drug in 1967. For Ebola, a vaccine took five years to develop.



American biotech company Moderna reportedly would enter the final stage of human trials for its COVID-19 vaccine on July 27, with 30,000 participants in the US. Half of them will get the vaccine at 100 microgram dose levels, and the other half to receive a placebo.

The clinical trial will run until October 27.

China's SinoVac is also set to start its final stage of tests. Russian researchers have completed all three clinical trials of their vaccine, though they have yet to share their data.

So, realistically, how long will it really take for us to see a Covid-19 vaccine up and ready to go inside the Philippine market?



Let's talk about the standard US vaccine procedurals. Phases 1 and 2 are done, so we'll count from Phase 3 onwards.

Phase III Vaccine Trials

Successful Phase II candidate vaccines move on to larger trials, involving thousands to tens of thousands of people. These Phase III tests are randomized and double blind and involve the experimental vaccine being tested against a placebo (the placebo may be a saline solution, a vaccine for another disease, or some other substance).

One Phase III goal is to assess vaccine safety in a large group of people. Certain rare side effects might not surface in the smaller groups of subjects tested in earlier phases. For example, suppose that an adverse event related to a candidate vaccine might occur in 1 of every 10,000 people. To detect a significant difference for a low-frequency event, the trial would have to include 60,000 subjects, half of them in the control, or no vaccine, group. (Plotkin SA et al. Vaccines, 5th ed. Philadelphia: Saunders, 2008)

Vaccine efficacy is tested as well. These factors might include 1) Does the candidate vaccine prevent disease? 2) Does it prevent infection with the pathogen? 3) Does it lead to production of antibodies or other types of immune responses related to the pathogen?



Next Steps: Approval and Licensure

After a successful Phase III trial, the vaccine developer will submit a Biologics License Application to the FDA. Then the FDA will inspect the factory where the vaccine will be made and approve the labeling of the vaccine.

After licensure, the FDA will continue to monitor the production of the vaccine, including inspecting facilities and reviewing the manufacturer’s tests of lots of vaccines for potency, safety and purity. The FDA has the right to conduct its own testing of manufacturers’ vaccines.

Post-Licensure Monitoring of Vaccines

A variety of systems monitor vaccines after they have been approved. They include Phase IV trials.

Phase IV Trials

Phase IV trial are optional studies that drug companies may conduct after a vaccine is released. The manufacturer may continue to test the vaccine for safety, efficacy, and other potential uses. (Website: The History of Vaccines, "Vaccine Development, Testing, and Regulation")




Vaccines for the Philippines

Even after a working Covid-19 vaccine is finally out, it still takes time to mass-produce and distribute it across the globe. The world population is at 7.8 billion and, by history, no pharmaceutical company has ever produced such huge number of vaccines. The typical mass production count, at best, is somewhere between 500 million to 1 billion units. That is why the world hopes to see more vaccine candidates to succeed.

Then comes the cost. The means to develop the Covid-19 vaccine and the results of its clinical trials will determine how much it will cost to make the drug and who can afford it. Experts say delivering the vaccines could cost substantially more than traditional varieties and this might affect the world's poorest people. Thus, cooperation between leaders of countries is important to allow a COVID-19 vaccine to swiftly transfer its potency across the seas, particularly the Philippines.




What to do for now

In the meantime, the most valuable thing a person can do while waiting for the vaccine is to follow the minimum health protocols set by the authorities. For now, the use of face masks, social distancing, avoiding crowds and washing the hands regularly is still the best way to keep safe and avoid getting the infection.


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Metro Manila's biggest 'Covid-19-related' motoring blunders

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Everyone makes mistakes now and then — as the saying goes, that’s why they put erasers on the end of pencils.

Unfortunately for us Filipinos in the time of Covid-19, when we make mistakes we are very public and usually very costly — in a healthward and, sometimes, reputational sense.

Metro Manila's biggest 'Covid-19-related' motoring blunders


So, in no particular order, I thought we’d take a look at some decisions, with regards to commuting and motoring, where we might want a do-over if given the chance.

And, with few exceptions, the people in question would likely never admit to these decisions being mistakes at all — nor would many who heeded to those. Regardless, sometimes things just don’t work as planned.




The LRT social distancing fiasco

Seems the LRT and the MRT lines as a whole is cursed in Metro Manila.

Just recently, the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT3) suspended its operations for a week following the surge in employees who tested positive for the coronavirus disease. Two hundred and two (202) MRT personnel were infected.

Then just a few days ago, this happened in the Light Rail Transit (LRT) line. The image and excerpt is taken from a GMA news report.

The LRT social distancing fiasco


"Several Light Rail Transit-1 (LRT-1) passengers were dismayed over the lack of physical distancing inside trains, despite months of health and safety preparations amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Commuter Renz Cada Beroy took to social media to air his disappointment after entering a passenger-filled wagon at the Monumento station.

Beroy had hoped for the strict implementation of social distancing at the LRT-1 after enduring more than one hour of queuing."



In response to this gaffe, which was absurdly short and indifferent, the LRT management said, "The photo may have been taken during our peak hours. As an extra measure and to help us monitor compliance, we have deployed roving train marshalls during peak hours," said Light Rail Transit Authority Corporate Communications Head Jacqueline Gorospe.

Whatever.


Back-riding shields 





Can’t see the logic here.

Married (or live-in) people sleep in the same bed, sometimes even sharing dinner on the same plate so back-riding shields to separate them when riding a motorcycle don't make sense.

On July 10, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) started allowing back-riding in motorcycles for couples and live-in partners with a condition that they install protective shields between both riders in compliance with the guidelines set by the Inter-agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-MEID).

But, after a week since its implementation, at least six motorcycle riders and their pillions were already involved in accidents, according to experiences and photos shared with motorcycle rights group, Motorcycle Rights Organization (MRO) and motoring website Motopinas.





A motorcycle rider by the name of Dla Cruz posted on social media regarding the accident she had while utilizing the plastic barriers. “Yung barrier na basagbasag hindi po sya safe. Please lang wag na po sana mag barrier,“ she said over their accident in Cubao, Quezon City on Friday.

Five more accidents were reported in the metro, where according to eyewitness accounts, sudden gusts of wind blew on the the shields and acted like a sail, caught the wind and threw the riders off their balance, thus the accidents.

The barrier shield was a big swing and a miss, which must have cost people money better spent on something else.

Back-riding shields


The MMDA concrete barriers

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is a well-known name in the metropolis, with strong on-the-road visibility and performance gaining it a solid, stone-hard reputation.

And so is its concrete barriers.

The MMDA concrete barriers


So it wasn't odd when MMDA decided to put up concrete barriers along EDSA to mark a demarcation line between the Busway and the private vehicle lanes.





As of June, there have been a total of 31 vehicular accidents along EDSA since concrete barriers were put up on June 1, killing at least one, but the MMDA said most of which were self-accidents and liquor-related.

According to MMDA spokesperson Celine Pialago, the incidents were drunk-driving accidents, and some entered the wrong lane, while one motorcycle rider was killed when he slipped at the busway and hit his head.

"Hindi naman kasalanan per se ng concrete barriers dahil po ito ay reflectorized na. Hindi po tayo naglagay ng mga concrete barriers na hindi reflectorized," she said during a virtual briefing and emphasized that the agency has put up additional markers that motorists can see far away.

"Maiiwasan po ang aksidente kung tayo po ay mananatili lamang sa ating lane, hindi po tayo mag over-speeding kapag madaling araw at 'yun po 'yung dahilan kung bakit nagkakabiglaan po doon sa mga nasabing concrete barriers," Pialago said.




The MMDA had no plans to remove the barriers. "Wala po'ng kasalanan ang concrete barriers," Pialago insisted.

As I write this post, buses and cars are still spinning their tires along EDSA, trying hard not to hit those barriers.


Locally stranded individuals

Less a mistake, and more an act of government "oopsie".

A new Covid-19 nomenclature: “Locally-stranded individuals” or LSI gained traction when a woman was found unconscious at an EDSA footbridge in Pasay City after reportedly waiting for days for a bus ride to Camarines Sur, and died as she was being rushed to a hospital.

So, the government created a program to beat this, unconsciously putting public health in the provinces at risk.

Here's what happened.

Locally stranded individuals


Metro Manila hosted thousands of migrant workers, as well as students, construction workers and tourists who were stranded when the government imposed a lockdown on Luzon in March to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

The government helped them return to their hometowns by providing them with transportation and coordinating with local governments under its LSI assistance program.

But COVID-19 cases rose as quickly as returnees were sent to provinces.




Richard Gomez, Ormoc mayor, said his city was tagged as one of the emerging hot spots in the spread of the coronavirus in the Visayas. This developed after the national government agencies started bringing hundreds, including locally stranded individuals, back to their home provinces.

Some of the returnees turned out positive for Covid-19.

He lamented the lack of coordination in the return of stranded OFWs or LSIs to the provinces.

"Mabilis 'yung pagdami kasi mabilis din 'yung pagpapadala nila ng mga returnees, 'no, coming from Manila and Cebu," Gomez said in a GMA News interview.

"Ilan 'yung darating in particular para hindi overwhelm lahat. And all of this, it's not just in Ormoc City. This is happening all over the country. Hindi lahat ng LGUs kaya ang pinapadala nila," Gomez added.

Repatriating LSI's, though a good deed, was a PR blue for the government. It has paid a heavy price in many ways.


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Images from PNA, GMA, Motopinas

If you have read this blog post here, I like to inform you that the original post is at https://emongsjournals.blogspot.com

You can now park your bicycles for free at these MRT, LRT, PNR stations

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Metro trains are the main transport hubs in Metro Manila where the middle to mid-plus class commuters get cheap, quick rides to their workplaces: practicality meets speed.

And, of course, there's the bicycles. At present, thousands of essential workers have resorted to biking after public transport became scarce amid the coronavirus lockdown.

You can now park your bicycles for free at these MRT, LRT, PNR stations


Clearly, bicycles have become popular, thanks to a whole slew of benefits such as improving health, transport flexibility and financial savings. At the same time, however, the advent of bicycle use for commuting have also contributed to some public frustration, especially when they can't find suitable, safe parking spaces for their bikes when they opt to ride a train. For bike commuters, choosing a place to park their bikes can be a challenge.



Fortunately, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) through its Rail Sector, has started installing bicycle racks at some stations of the LRT-1, LRT-2, MRT-3 and PNR transit lines.

Use of the bike racks is free of charge, but cyclists have to bring their own padlocks.

Below is a list of LRT, MRT, PNR stations where cyclists can properly park their bicycles before getting onboard trains.




LRT-1

  • Central Station
  • Libertad Station
  • EDSA Taft Station
  • and soon at Baclaran station.


LRT-2

  • Legarda Station
  • Pureza Station
  • V Mapa Station
  • and soon at J. Ruiz, Gilmore, and Betty Go-Belmonte stations.






MRT-3

  • North Avenue Station
  • Quezon Avenue Station
  • GMA Kamuning Station
  • The MRT-3 line expects to complete the installation of 34 bike racks at its stations from North Avenue to Taft Avenue for both the northbound and southbound sides. One bike rack can accommodate five bicycles.


PNR

  • Tutuban Station
  • Cyclists can bring their folded bikes inside the train car with a fare from origin to destination equivalent to one person, and subject to disinfection.







Schedule
Bicycle owners may park their bikes at the bike racks from 5:00 am until 8:00 pm only. However, they can claim their bicycles until the close of operations at 10:00 pm.

Security
Roving security personnel will conduct periodic foot patrol and ocular inspection of the bicycle rack to check for damage, vandalism, and for added security presence. However, cyclists must ensure that their bikes are secured with their personal padlocks. No valuables and personal belongings such as bags or carry-ons should be left with the bicycle while parked at the rack, as the agency management will not be liable for stolen or damaged bicycles.

Earlier,  the DOTr, in cooperation with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), is fast-tracking the creation of bicycle lanes along EDSA to ensure the safety of cyclists, as well as to maximize road space use.


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MRT wants you to remember 7 important things before getting onboard their trains

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If you've been on an MRT train in the past couple of days, you may have noticed something strange — from among other things, full personal protective equipments (PPE) that have become familiar wear for the medical frontliners are now being used by depot personnel, too.

The move was in line with amendments to health protocols within MRT stations to protect employees and commuters against COVID-19 and prevent the spread of the virus inside offices and depots.

MRT wants you to remember 7 important things before getting onboard their trains


With the significant rise in the number of people taking public transportation amid the easing of quarantine regulations on employees heading back to work and with over 200 depot personnel getting infected with the coronavirus, health and safety measures are now strictly enforced within Metro Rail Transit (MRT-3) stations and trains for the safety of commuters.



Here are 7 things you need to know before riding the MRT-3:

1. About 17 train sets, including 16 CKD train sets and a Dalian train set, are operating on the MRT-3 line. Each train set can accommodate 153 passengers, 51 per train car. It also maintains a one-meter distance between passengers inside the train. The line normally opens at 5:30 a.m.

2. Each passenger must fill out a health declaration form. It is distributed to passengers while queuing, before undergoing full-body checking and entering the turnstile area inside the station. This method will serve for contact tracing.



3. Before entering, passengers must undergo a temperature check. Passengers with a temperature of 37.8 degrees celsius and above will not be allowed to board the bus as a proactive measure in keeping them virus-free.

4. Wearing a face mask is also strictly enforced within the line facility at all times.

5. Answering cell phone calls or any digital devices of passengers and speaking inside the train is also prohibited. This is to prevent the spread of the virus through respiratory droplets that come from speaking, coughing and sneezing.



6. To protect MRT-3 employees and their passengers, all station personnel, including ticket sellers, security guards and janitorial services, are wearing full personal protective equipment (PPE).

7. The bus augmentation service is available from Monday to Sunday, 4:00AM to 9:00PM, from the North Avenue station to Taft Avenue station (both bounds).

Passengers going southbound will be picked up in the North Avenue and Quezon Avenue stations and will be dropped off in Ortigas, Guadalupe, Ayala and Taft Avenue stations. Meanwhile, passengers going northbound will be picked up in Taft Avenue and Ayala stations and will be dropped off in Ayala, Guadalupe, Ortigas, Quezon Avenue and North Avenue stations.


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Image from DOTr-MRT3 

If you have read this blog post here, I like to inform you that the original post is at https://emongsjournals.blogspot.com

PH Arena Exit reopens, but NLEX says ready your RFID first. Here's how

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No RFID, No Entry/Exit.

The North Luzon Expressway (NLEx) Corp. is finally reopening the Philippine Arena Interchange on August 1, but said they will no longer accept cash in the toll booths and instead utilize the radio frequency identification (RFID) payment technology when motorists pass through the interchange.

This after the NLEX Philippine Arena Exit in Bocaue, Bulacan was closed down in April due to the Luzon coronavirus lockdown and for the exclusive use of the arena complex as a government's quarantine facility.

Cash-paying motorists, who will pass through the toll road, will be required to sign up for an RFID account and have the RFID installed on their vehicles before entry or exit. The RFID sticker is free-of-charge, but you have to cash out at least PHP500 for the initial load.

PH Arena Exit reopens, but NLEX says ready your RFID first. Here's how



What is RFID?

The RFID stickers, usually attached onto a vehicle’s windshield, connect via radio waves to an electronic device from the toll plaza that reads the data stored on the stickers. When a vehicle with a sticker passes within the vicinity of an electronic reader, the reader picks up the sticker data and relays it to a software system that tracks the activity of vehicles. RFIDs are designed to ensure a smooth ride and seamless experience for drivers as it lessens the time a vehicle waits in a toll booth.


Easytrip and Autosweep RFIDs

Currently, we have two providers of RFIDs on our expressways: Easytrip and Autosweep RFIDs. NLEX only accepts Easytrip, though you may also enroll your Autosweep by registering it for a separate profile. Once registered, your RFID sticker can now carry two wallets – one for Autosweep and another for Easytrip. 

How to Register your Autosweep RFID to Easytrip System?


Below are the following guide to register your Autosweep RFID to the Easytrip System:

1. Go to the following designated registration sites:
  • Easytrip Services Corp. (ESC) 7th Floor, Citystate, Shaw Boulevard, Pasig City
  • Total Gasoline Station, KAWIT CAVITE
  • Paranaque Southbound POS in CAVITEX
  • Balintawak Customer Service Center in NLEX
  • Mindanao Ave. Customer Service Center in NLEX
  • Shell Balagtas in NLEX
  • Petron Marilao in NLEX
  • Shell Balintawak in EDSA
  • Caltex Valenzuela in NLEX
  • Shell Mexico in NLEX
  • Total Fuel Station Merville
  • CALTEX C5 Extension
  • Shell Fuel Station Nuvali

2. Present your Autosweep Card to the Easytrip System Corp. (ESC) Point-Of-Sales (POS).

3. Let the ESC POS representative check the following:
  • if there is an existing Easytrip/Easydrive tag on the customer's vehicle
  • if the Autosweep tag is working
  • EPC & TIN numbers of the tag

4. Fill-out and sign the subscription form, terms and conditions.

5. Pay PHP500.00 for the initial reload of your Easytrip account.

6. ESC will contact the customer when his/her Easytrip card is available for pickup. In the meantime, the customer may refer to the any kit provided by the ESC POS representative for his Easytrip account number.

7. Finally, the customer can use the tag at Autosweep tollways in 3 working days after registration.



Easytrip RFIDs are usable at the following expressways:
  • North Luzon Expressway (NLEx)
  • Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx)
  • Manila-Cavite Expressway (Cavitex)
  • C5-SouthLink Expressway
  • Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAx)

... while Autosweep can be used at:
  • Skyway System
  • South Luzon Expressway (SLEx)
  • NAIA Expressway (NAIAx)
  • STAR Tollway
  • Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEx)


Where to subscribe an Easytrip account?



1. NLEX

EASYTRIP POS stations in NLEX
  • Shell Balintawak (Northbound)
  • Petron Marilao (PM)Northbound
  • Shell Balagtas (SB) Northbound
  • Petron Balagtas (PB) Southbound
  • Shell Mexico Southbound
  • NLEX Drive & Dine

LANE SELLING
  • Clark South (Subic Bound)
  • Lane Selling in Angeles Toll Plaza (Entry)
  • Lane Selling in Balagtas Toll Plaza (Entry)

NLEX Customer Service Centers
  • Balintawak CSC
  • San Fernando CSC




2. CAVITEX

  • Longos Bacoor NB, Manila Bound Longos Entry
  • CIC NB Ambulant, Manila Bound CIC Customer Service
  • CIC SB Ambulant, Cavite Bound CIC Customer Service
  • Kawit Northbound, Manila Bound Kawit Toll Plaza

  • CAVITEX Customer Service Centers
  • CAVITEX CSC Northbound
  • CAVITEX CSC Southbound


3. C5 SOUTHLINK

  • Shell Logcom Eastbound to Pasig
  • Shell C5 Heritage Westbound to Merville
  • Caltex Merville Eastbound to Taguig
  • Caltex C5 Extension Eastbound to Taguig
  • C5 Extension Road Junction Taguig City
  • C5 Link Customer Service Center
  • C5 Link Customer Service West Service Road


4. CALAX

Shell Station Nuvali, Across S&R Nuvali, Tagaytay-Sta. Rosa Road


How much is the subscription cost and initial load?

Easytrip RFID is FREE. You only have to pay the initial load of PHP500.00 for NLEX-SCTEX and PHP200.00 for CAVITEX and C5 Link.




Where to reload?

  • NLEX Toll Plaza (Mixed lanes, Lane Top-up)
  • Easytrip Mobile POS. 
  • For the list of Easytrip Reloading stations along NLEX-SCTEX, CAVITEX, CALAX and C5 Link. PLEASE CLICK HERE.
  • NLEX Customer Service Centers
  • Cavitex Customer Service Centers
  • (along coastal road) Before Paranaque Toll Plaza (Southbound and Northbound)
  • Easytrip Head Office : Unit 701 City State Centre Brgy. Kapitolyo Shaw Blvd., Pasig City
  • Petron Gasoline Stations
  • Shell Gasoline Stations
  • SM Business Centers
  • Touchpay/ MEPS
  • Smart Money
  • Bancnet
  • LBC (excluding branches inside SM Malls)
  • Credit Card Payments (Visa, MasterCard, AMEX and JCB)
  • Over-the-counter/ Direct Deposit
  • Account Name: Easytrip Services Corp.
  • Account Numbers:
  • - Metrobank 066-3-71810785-8
  • - BDO 1530117826
  • - UCPB 00196-1132210
  • Robinsons Business Centers
  • Bayad Center (excluding branches inside SM Malls)


The reopening of the PH Arena Exit complements the recent opening of the Tambobong Interchange.

Both are vital in the decongestion of Bocaue Toll Plaza and in easing mounting traffic along Governor F. Halili Road in the Bocaue-Sta. Maria corridor. These alternative NLEX exits will provide better access and convenience to motorists bound for Sta. Maria, Angat, Pandi and other towns in eastern Bulacan.


Any thoughts?
Share your ideas by commenting.
File image from DPWH


If you have read this blog post here, I like to inform you that the original post is at https://emongsjournals.blogspot.com

Metro Manila on MECQ again – and 4 Covid protocol errors that might have led to it

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Although until now Philippines has had a good hold on containing the Covid-19 outbreak, after infections began to rise across the National Capital Region in July, the government announced it is reverting Metro Manila back to the stricter modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ).

Just a few days ago, medical frontliners called for a 'two-week-back-to-ECQ' course of action as top doctors warn the coronavirus outbreak will truly spiral out of control and weaken the health system.

4 Covid protocol errors that might have led to Metro Manila going back to MECQ


As the country breached the 100,000 mark in the number of Covid cases and after registering its worst day on record with 5,032 infections yesterday, MECQ restrictions are now in back in place as public transportation, group gatherings, dining in at restaurants and many businesses will close once more –– including gyms, barber shops, sports grounds and resto bars. 

If you’re left feeling a little confused by the sudden changes to the rules, here are four reasons that might have contributed to the rise of Covid infections in the metropolis. 



1. RELAXING OF QUARANTINE MEASURES

In June, Metro Manila’s coronavirus outbreak seemed largely under control. Expanded testings were conducted daily, and contact tracing seemed a success, the general consensus was to place NCR to an eased general community quarantine (GCQ). In the midst of a more relaxed background, the reins were let loose and the public – nearly all of whom wore face masks—stood shoulder-to-shoulder on crowded MRT trains, markets and workplaces.

The government allowed most of the city’s businesses, even those that has little to none social distancing like barber shops, salons, and most recently the gyms, to open. Dine-in services also became available.

It was a celebration of sorts, and some public officials thought Metro Manila had gotten it right. 

But in an Inquirer news report, Dr. Rabindra Abeyasinghe, World Health Organization (WHO) representative in the country, said 'the proportion of positive cases is very slowly increasing,' from a positivity rate of 6.5 percent in June, it rose to 7.7 percent or 7.8 percent in July. The ideal positivity rate is 5 percent. 

When asked whether Metro Manila should be placed under lockdown, Abeyasinghe said the surge in infections followed the easing of quarantine restrictions to reopen the economy.



2. WEAK CONTACT TRACING

One of the main concerns right now is that people are not being contact traced in time and that leads to more people contracting COVID-19. 

More important than maintaining the ideal positivity rate of 5 percent, Abeyasinghe said, 'is that a country’s testing capacity is matched by its contact tracing and suppression capacity is matched by its capacity to manage patients.’

He said the government had used the long lockdown it imposed on Metro Manila, the epicenter of the outbreak, to expand its testing capability and treatment facilities. 'But unfortunately,' he said, 'the contact tracing and suppression capacities did not keep pace with what was happening on the testing and treatment care pathways … This aspect of the response was a little weak.'



3. QUARANTINE EXEMPTIONS

Metro Manila was also generous with quarantine exemptions. Certain groups have been excluded entirely from the city’s quarantine rules, including thousands of locally stranded individuals (LSIs) who’ve arrived at the Rizal Memorial Stadium to board buses to their provincial destinations. In early July, some LSIs who arrived in their respective hometowns were discovered positive for coronavirus. On July 30, 48 more LSIs tested positive in COVID-19 rapid tests. After a public outcry on the conditions of the people packed at the stadium, the Department of Health (DOH) said this was considered a mass gathering violating guidelines against the pandemic. 

Drivers transporting goods and workers employed across the whole of Mega Manila (NCR, Rizal, Calabarzon) were exempt from quarantine too. People in these groups are only required to wear masks and report their temperature daily to their destinations, but they do not need to self-isolate when they go home to their families everyday.

Some public officials have always maintained that the average workers are essential to maintain the necessary operation of the economy and to ensure an uninterrupted supply of daily necessities.



4. AT-HOME QUARANTINE

In an effort to decongest Covid-populated hospitals, probable or suspected COVID-19 patients were allowed to quarantine in their own homes, but the people they live with are not subject to quarantine and can move freely—a loophole that some experts consider one of the possible sources of infection.

In mid-July, a Philippine Star reportsaid that according to DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, there are 12,684 probable or suspected COVID-19 cases on home quarantine in different areas of the country. But even if this is one of the possible factors driving coronavirus infections, Vergeire clarified the DOH 'does not discourage' home quarantine as long as the requirements for it are strictly met to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Otherwise, it is 'best' to place these suspected cases at the temporary treatment and monitoring facilities, just like the asymptomatics and those with mild coronavirus infection.


ANY THOUGHTS? Share your ideas by commenting.

If you have read this blog post here, I like to inform you that the original post is at https://emongsjournals.blogspot.com

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