Wives Can Drop Husband's Surname Under CGMA and Senator Binay's Bill

"Whatever God hath joined together, let no man put asunder."

A famous stanza from the bible that we frequently take notice of in almost all wedding ceremony. Being together is tolerable and manageable after the marriage, but settling blissfully and happily while married is another story. Moreover, if that happens, the couple has no choice but to part ways. For some, it's not easy to drop the surname from their name if they're using it already for sometime. This is especially if they're using them for:

• Identification cards
• Official documents and;
• Other records

Many women are still using their husband's surname even if they've already been abandoned for a decade, suffered death, or separation; because doing so need a court order. However, if Former President and now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's bill will pass, dropping husbands surname will be easy. She filed a measure / bill which seek to empower women to revert to their maiden name even without judicial court order in cases of legal separation of marriage, presumptive death, and abandonment, separation of property or dissolution of marriage.

Under the proposed measure, House Bill no. 6082, called “Reversion to Maiden Name Act”, a woman may revert to her maiden surname after a decree of legal separation, annulment of marriage, nullity of marriage or divorce in another country without going through a judicial process but only administratively through the Office of Civil Registrar.

According to Arroyo, her bill “deletes the tedious and expensive court process” associated with the reversion of their surname.

"Despite the laws and jurisprudence on the matter, there is still an incomplete realization of the woman’s right to continue using her maiden name," she said.

"Domestic situations such as legal separation, separation de facto and such other similar instances are areas where women may still be required to recourse to a court process for change of name in order to revert to the use of their maiden name," she added.

This bill allows a woman to revert to her maiden name under these circumstances:

1. After her marriage has been judicially declared null and void or after its annulment;
2. Succeeding a judicial declaration of legal separation provided that there has been no manifestation of reconciliation filed with the court;
3. After a judicial declaration of separation of property, provided there has been no subsequent decree reviving the old property regime between the spouses;
4. If the spouses stipulated in their marriage settlement that a regime of' separation of properties shall govern their property relations;
5. If the petitioner has been de facto separated from or abandoned by her husband for a period of not less than 10 years;
6. The petitioner's husband may be presumed dead pursuant to the circumstances, periods and conditions; set forth in the Civil Code of the Philippines and the Rules of Court. The bill grants the Civil Registrar General, the Department of Justice, the Department of Foreign Affairs, and the Office of the Supreme Court Administrator the power to issue rules and regulations for the effective implementation of the measure.

Arroyo added that women in this case just need to go to the Office of the Civil Registrar to dismiss their surnames' name. Furthermore, for them to accomplish this without spending a lot of money.

In the Senate, Senator Nancy Binay has filed the same bill that would make it easier for women; separated from or abandoned by their husbands;  to simplify the process by going through the local registry and no longer through a court. Binay filed on August 7, 2017, the Senate Bill No. 1547 or the proposed Reversion to Maiden Name Act. This identifies the grounds that would allow a woman to file a verified petition for reversion before the local civil registry office of the city or municipality where her record is kept.

"In accordance with the Constitution, this measure removes the difficult, costly, and unnecessary court processes that women have to endure in order to revert to their maiden name,” Binay said in the bill’s explanatory note.

The petition for reversion may be allowed in any of the following cases:

1. After a marriage has been judicially declared null and void or after its annulment;
2. Succeeding a judicial declaration of legal separation; provided, that there has been no manifestation or reconciliation filed with the court;
3. After a judicial declaration of separation of property; provided, that there has been no subsequent decree reviving the old property regime between the spouses;
4. If the spouses stipulated in their marriage settlement that a regime of separation of properties shall govern their property relations;
5. If the petitioner has been de facto separated from or abandoned by her husband; for a period of not less than 10 years; or
6. If the petitioner’s husband may be presumed dead pursuant to the circumstances, periods and conditions set forth in the Civil Code of the Philippines and the Rules of Court.

They are tasking the Civil Registrar, the Department of Justice, the Department of Foreign Affairs, and the Office of the Court Administrator to issue the necessary rules and regulations.

How to Make Sure That The Chicken You Are Eating Is Bird Flu Free

A couple of days ago, the news were filled with instantaneous instances of bird flu. Last week, the Department of Agriculture (DA) confirmed the outbreak of avian influenza virus (bird flu), in San Luis, Pampanga. They said that it was the first case of our country. Furthermore, the outbreak was spread and killed almost 40,000 poultry heads and placed the province in a state of calamity.

This outbreak was quickly spread; to control it, the DA banned shipments of fowl from Luzon to any part of the country. In addition to that, they also warned people to be wary of the chicken they eat especially if it came from unknown sources.


The Department of Health (DOH ) reported that there have been no reports of human being infected by the disease and that there are low chances of animal to human transmission of the disease. However, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) issued a warning to refrain from approaching any migratory birds since the virus came from birds.

"We discourage the killing or poaching of the birds because this could just worsen the situation. Close contact with the birds will risk transmission," DENR-BMB Director Mundita Lim said.
These government bodies tested specimens and confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) subtype H5 has affected San Agustin in San Luis, Pampanga. 37,000 birds infected and killed covering six farms of poultry, quail and ducks.

What is Influenza A virus subtype H5N1?

Commonly referred to as avian influenza (bird flu), it is a subtype of the influenza A virus which can cause serious illness in humans and other animal species. A single strain of HPAI A(H5N1) is spreading globally after first appearing in Asia. It is epizootic (an epidemic in nonhumans) and panzootic (affecting animals of many species, especially over a wide area). This is killing a magnitude of birds and is spurring the culling of hundreds of millions of others to stem its spread.

What are the symptoms of bird flu?

If any human is affected, the symptoms of this disease is slightly evident. According to the World Health Association, the usual signs are:

• Fever
• Over fatigue
• Conjunctivitis
• Sore throat
• Muscle aches
• Cough & colds

If the infection remains untreated, the infected could experience:

• Viral pneumonia
• Respiratory diseases
• Rapid deterioration
• Multi-organ failure
• Respiratory distress

The worst that could possibly happen is that the victim could die of these diseases. So, in order for you to just avoid the disease wholly, you need to know if a chicken is infected.

How do you spot a chicken that is infected by bird flu?

If you cook your own meat, chances are you would be able to see the chicken after cleaning it. However if you sell these chicken and buy them, you have bigger chances of avoiding bird flu. The symptoms of an infected chicken are:

• Lethargy
• Respiratory distress
• Facial swelling
• Ruffled feathers
• Sudden death (no warnings)
• Decreased egg production

Ultimately, it is just best to avoid chicken while this virus has not yet been cleared out. If you own a poultry and gather and cook meat by yourselves, be wary of these signs. However if you eat chicken and you buy it cooked, you may not have an idea if the chicken served to you is good or not.

 

Although this is the case, Bounty Agro Ventures President Ronald Mascariñas shared some tips on how to spot a bird flu infected chicken.

In addition to the above, to prevent spreading, you must know how a human can acquire bird flu. Although these cases are rare, it's still better if you play it safe.
Direct Contact
When you get in contact with the infected chicken and you:

• Rub your eyes
• Put your mouth in/on your mouth
• Rub your nose

Contaminated Surfaces

Healthy-looking chicken are not always healthy; they are in fact also in the dilemma of catching the flu. If an area is contaminated, it's easy to expect that all chicken in that area will be infected.

Bird flu virus (air and dust)

When the infected chicken flaps its wings, scratches the ground, and shakes its head, the virus can blend in with the air or dust. This can then be inhaled by a human through his mouth or nose, causing the virus to penetrate the body.

What's the best thing to do when there is an outbreak?

To ensure the safety, stay away from areas where chicken is everywhere. The virus can be airborne especially if the virus is continually spread. Furthermore, avoiding chicken for at least some time can dramatically increases your chances of being safe with bird flu.

Even though this is the case, the DOH and the DA assured the public that they are doing everything to contain the outbreak. The DENR will also issue a communication to all regions to intensify monitoring and surveillance at airports and seaports pertaining to the smuggling of wild birds.

List of State Universities And Colleges with Free Tuition Fee

This year, our newly elected dear President made it to a point that education will be light. For students, light that it won't be stressful; for parents on the other hand, light on the pocket. President Rodrigo Duterte approved the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. This law states that tuition fees in some state universities and colleges be free of charge. This free tuition fee law will ultimately help a lot of people, don't you think?

PUP via Wikipedia

Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Menardo Guevearra made the announcement on Friday, 4th of August during a press conference in Pasay City. "Since many people have been waiting for the president's action for the very important enrolled bill that was passed by congress last May entitled Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education, I am pleased to announce that last night, August 3, 2017, the President signed the enrolled bill," Guevarra said.

The Congress passed the bill in May. Furthermore, the bill was transmitted to the Office of the President on the 5th of July for the president's signature.

Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno said on Tuesday that would the budget requirements of the bill would set back the government by a significant amount. “We estimate that it will cost us something like P100 billion. The government cannot afford that,” he said.

“If there’s a will – as we say – if there’s a will, there’s a way,” said Guevarra when they were asked where they will get the funds for this.

News 5 released a list of schools that are subject to this change:

• City of Malabon University
• Eulogio "Amang" Rodriguez Institute of Technology
• Marikina Polytechnic College
• Navotas Polytechnic College
• Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Muntinlupa
• Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina
• Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila
• Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Pasay
• Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Pasig
• Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela
• Philippine Normal University
• Philippine Public Safety College
• Philippine State College of Aeronautics
• Polytechnic University of the Philippines
• Quezon City Polytechnic University
• Taguig City University
• Technological University of the Philippines
• Universidad de Manila
• Universidad of Caloocan City
• University of Makati
• University of the Philippines
• Valenzuela City Polytechnic College

Take note that this list is not final. This list is just the foreseen list of schools that are subject to the new law. Some of them may be there, some of them may not. Some might be added.
Secretary Diokno confirmed that this law will take effect next year.

Long Weekends Of The Year 2018

Last year, we've compiled the list of long weekends of the year 2017. I can say that the list helped a lot of people since they were able to plan out their vacations accordingly. Although some are not tailor-fit to these holidays, you have ample time to inform your employer about your plan. Because by having the knowledge of what day a certain holiday falls, you can map out things easily. In addition, 2017 was also the year of the best long weekends. Certain holidays made its place perfectly to the week. How do you think 2018 would go?



For you not to be confused, the dates in italicized bold are the dates of when the holidays would fall. The other dates however, are the dates of the weekend.

February - Chinese New Year

Feb 16 (Friday), Feb 17 (Saturday), Feb 18 (Sunday)

March - Holy Week

Mar 29 (Thursday), Mar 30 (Friday), Mar 31 (Saturday), April 1 (Sunday)

April - Araw Ng Kagitingan

April 7 (Saturday), April 8 (Sunday), April 9 (Monday)

August - National Heroes Day

Aug 25 (Saturday), Aug 26 (Sunday), Aug 27 (Monday)

November - All Saint's Day

Nov 1 (Thursday), Nov 2 (Friday), Nov 3 (Saturday), Nov 4 (Sunday)

November - Bonifacio Day

Nov 30 (Friday), Dec 1 (Saturday), Dec 2 (Sunday)

December - Christmas Day

Dec 22 (Saturday), Dec 23 (Sunday), Dec 24 (Monday), Dec 25 (Tuesday)

December - Rizal Day/Last Day Of The Year

Dec 29 (Saturday), Dec 30 (Sunday), Dec 31 (Monday)

These are all the dates of the long weekends of 2018. Although it may not seem many, it's still a list that can aid you in your vacation planning. So, with all of these in mind, you can inform your boss or your employer forehand of the dates when you'll be out. Just be sure that it won't overlap with your colleagues vacation leaves.

In addition to that, you can also search for flight promos, hotel room discounts, and vacation packages at the same time so you can save early for the trip you are planning to have!
What are you waiting for? Tell your friends and family about these weekends and plan a relaxing vacation!

Best Thrift Stores In Metro Manila For Unbelievably Sick Finds

Shopping is probably one of the more done things by Filipinos. However, the best stuff to pick up might hurt the pockets of some. Why is this so? Because the "more-common" items are most likely mass-produced.  But did you know that there are thrift stores in the Metro that are sometimes better than "branded items"



Yes, what's actually great in Manila is that it contains a number of thrift stores for the millennials.  To point it out, thrift stores doesn't always mean what you think.  Overused, dirty, dusty, etc, is probably what you're imagining right now.  Yes that is what thrift stores are but if you take a look at these shops, you might change your mind and directly head on to these stores.
Well what I can guarantee is a good find with a good price.  So, what are we waiting for? Here is the best thrift stores where you can drop by and score good finds!

Anything Antique and Old - Bangkal

If you love anything old and vintage, then you must prepare for Bangkal.  They have everything from furniture, sculptures, to novelty finds.  You can buy designs here for your own personal space at home.
via realestate.ph

These items are truly remarkable if you are looking to let the inner ancient Filipino in your house.  Make sure to wear airy-outfits because the place is not airconditioned.  In addition to that, the place is jam-packed with vintage stores in one row.  You might get extremely uncomfortable especially with our current weather.
Address: Gen. M. Hizon St. Bangkal, Makati City

Books (Bookay-Ukay) - Maginhawa

via thereadingspree

If you live around Quezon City, then you've probably heard of Bookay-Ukay.  This bookstore is home to a ton of books that come in good prices. Bookay-Ukay is one of the thrift stores in metro manila that offers unbelievable availability of books you haven't seen in your local book shops.  They have a diverse collection of books that you wouldn't want to miss.

Trying to find a book that you want to finish next? Head to Bookay-Ukay and amaze yourself with what you can buy.

Address: 78 Maginhawa St., Teacher's Village East, Diliman, Quezon City

Anonas Ukay (Clothes) - Anonas

via heymandz

Although we know of a lot of ukay-ukay in the Philippines, the Anonas Ukay-Ukay is just one of the few thrift stores in Metro Manila you wouldn't leave without buying something.  Standing four floors high, the Anonas Ukay can definitely make you want to go back when you pay a visit.  It's a dream come true for bargain-hunters; imagine buying stuff for the price of P20.00?

If you're expecting this place to be dusty and unorganized, think again!  It actually is one of the cleanest and well-organized ukay-ukay's I've ever seen. With it's four floors, you'll definitely want to buy dozens of stuff here.
Address: Beside the Anonas LRT-2 station

Music Items - Cubao Expo

via Stacy at lakbai.com (flickr)

If you've never heard of Cubao Expo, well you're missing a lot. This place is known to offer vintage items like old books, records, even artifacts.  Do not be shocked if you see items that is more expensive than your iPhone because they primarily sell classic items.  However, some come really cheap! Vinyl hunters might be surprised when they find vinyls that only cost P35.00! I'm pretty sure that everyone will love the offers of Cubao Expo does.

Aside from these vintage shops, there are also a lot of apparel shops here, too! But wait, there's more.  After tiring yourself out in going around looking for items, try out different restaurants, bars, and cafes.  They look vintage, too.
Address: 175 Gen. Romulo Ave. Cubao, Quezon City

Home and Events Items - Dapitan

Want to give your house a different vibe? Or do you need some giveaways or gifts for events? The Dapitan Arcade is perfect for you! Since they sell unique and quality items, this hub is every designer's haven.  From furnishings and accent pieces to vintage decor, you can find anything that would design your home here. You can also find decorative second-hand pieces, furniture, and refurbished kitchenware here.
via angkaladkarin
Okay so let's turn it up a notch. Aside from all I've stated above, they also sell cheap stuff for your kitchen needs! Both your inside and outside kitchen. Want to hype up your instagram-room-picture taking? Head to Dapitan Arcade now!
Address: 37 Dapitan cor. Kanlaon St., Laurges, Quezon City

Vintage Home Decor - Kamuning

via @gal_at_home (Instagram)

We all know that designing houses can cause a fortune but what are we here for? Would you believe that in one of the thrift stores in Metro Manila, you can find restored and refurbished furniture for a cheap price you wouldn't believe? Well here in Kamuning, I can guarantee a good find without a high price tag.

Although you may find items here that would put a hole in your pocket, items of glass and wood quality would definitely come cheap. So are you looking for a new vibe to your home? Drown yourself with a lot of antique-looking furniture and home decor in Kamuning!
Address: Kamuning Road, Diliman, Quezon City

Photography - Quiapo

We all know that Quiapo is the hub for churches, palm-readers, and snatchers... Kidding! Well, Quiapo is also one of the few places where you can go shopping for your photography items at a very low price.

via juice.ph

Photography is one hell expensive but would you believe if I told you that you can score items/parts in less than P1k pesos? And yes, they're legitimate!

Hidalgo Street in Quiapo is the place to be. Some professional photographers got classic vintage cameras for P100.00 but needed a few repairs.  Not bad, eh? In addition to that, they also sell second-hand cameras that are fully working. Reliable and somehow-known people own the stores here so don't think that these stores offer fake an illegitimate items.
Address: Hidalgo St., Quiapo, Manila City

I know what you're thinking... "Why haven't I heard of these before!?" Well, now that you know, when are you planning to visit?
What's your favorite? Hey wait, that's not even right, why? Because you can even visit all of them in one day. Just make sure you have the energy and the strength of a thrift-shopper!
Have a thrift store in mind that you want to have in this list for bargain-hunters like you to be aware of? Let us know!

Best New Restaurants in Metro Manila

A restaurant is a very popular name in the world. It comes from the words of “Rest and Rent.".  A guest takes Rest in a restaurant and pays Rent for having food their food & beverage.  It is a public place which opens to all where they can eat a meal and pay for it.



Many people take their meal in a restaurant if they do not feel having it in their home. Furthermore, in these places, your food is usually served at your table by a waiter or a waitress.
Nowadays there are many different types of restaurants, from fast food to family casual. In addition, a lot of places evolved and had their own rendition of a restaurant.  In Metro Manila, restaurants are all over the place. On top of that, people visit them and travel long distances.  But did you know about these new restaurants in MNL? If not, then here is a list of new restaurants in Metro Manila.

Baker & Cook (Bakery)

via flickr

Baker & Cook is from Singapore and they are owned and managed by celebrity chef Dean Brettschneider; he is part of the Bistro Group.  It is connected with Plank, a pizza place, another franchise handled by the same group. Baker & Cook first became known for their wide range of artisanal bread and pastries, as well as their brunch-inspired menu.
This restaurant brings out a little of bit of Germany, Italy, France, America, Denmark, Australia, New Zealand, and other places.  It applies a modern form of baking methods for its different breads, pastries, and desserts.

Location: Level 1, S Maison, Conrad Manila, Seaside Boulevard Corner Coral Way, Mall of Asia Complex (MOA), Pasay City

Poke Poke (Hawaiian)

via phonebooky

Poke bowls are a fairly new dining concept here in Manila and have been gaining popularity. It has long been popular in Hawaii but only recently and took root here.  It's a leading Hawaiian dish which serves raw fish on top of rice or quinoa mixed with vegetables and other toppings.
Poke Poke allows you to customize your own poke bowl with different ingredients like salmon, unagi, steak, rice, bacon, avocado, and more. Greenhills. San Juan Branch is currently their third branch in the Metro which just opened last, June 14, 2017.

Location: 8 Missouri St., Northeast Greenhills, San Juan City

Early Night  (Resto Bar)

via phonebooky

Early Night, a newly opened resto-bar that serves drinks and food like Sisig Fries, Pork BBQ sticks, Tokwa’t Baboy, Crispy Nilasing na Hipon and more. 

Location: 2nd Level, Unit C, The Fort Entertainment Center, 5th Ave. corner 26th St.
Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila, Philippines

Pepper Lunch  (Japanese, Kid Friendly)

via zmtcdn

Pepper Lunch is a “fast-steak” restaurant concept that offers premium steak, teriyaki, yakiniku, and other rice meals in a sizzling plate.  Although it's labeled more as fast-food, a lot of people still visit and enjoy meals here.

Location: O Square Greenhills, Ortigas Avenue Corner Wilson Street, Greenhills, San Juan City

Gringo (Latin American, Mexican)

via phonebooky

If you are a fan of chicken, McWilson Corporation’s Gringo Chicken and Ribs has a lot more to offer.
Gringo, known for its Cajun-Creole, specializes in Latin American and Tex-Mex line of dishes including chicken, ribs, burritos, and more. It has opened its new doors up North in Quezon City.
Gringo Back Ribs is available in Half Rack (P325, no sides), Full Rack (P620) and Rubs Muchos (P980). Its ‘lemony and herby’ chicken comes in quarter (P148), Half (P285) and Whole (P535). It also has a Southern Spice Chicken variant, distinct for its Latino flavor.

Location: G/F Phase 2, UP town Center, Katipunan Ave. Diliman, Quezon City

Icelavie  (Coffee, Juice)

via phonebooky

Icelavie is a popular Malaysian brand known for their giant cups that serve a variety of coffee concoctions, tea, and fruit juice. It’s the biggest cups you’ll ever see.
These drinks come in a blue cardboard-like container with a take-out handle, in case you want them to-go or you weren’t able to finish the entire thing in one sitting. This is currently their second branch in the Metro.

Location: 2/F Circuit Lane Makati, Riverfront Drive, AP Reyes St. Carmona, Makati

Paul Boulangerie (Breakfast, French)

via phonebooky
Paul Boulangerie and Patisserie is a popular chain of Bakery/Café restaurants established in 1889 in the city of Croix, in Northern France, by Charlemagne Mayot. They’re known for their Multi-seed breads, Salad Saumon Roti, and Pain au Chocolat.

Location:G/F SM Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, Ortigas, Mandaluyong

Rainbow Dreams Café (Caffee and Dessert)

via looloo

Because of the cuteness and adorableness traits cartoon unicorns perceive, a lot of people love them.
Rainbow Dreams Cafe allows you to wear uniform onesies and serves dreamy food and drinks like milkshakes, unicorn pasta carbonara, blueberry white chocolate waffles, and many more. You can also have a Photo Op with their stuff toys.
Rainbow Dreams Café is not only the first unicorn-themed café in the country; it’s also most accessible to people within Metro Manila. They just opened last May and it’s becoming prominent for all ages.

Location: 2/F 80 Maginhawa St., UP Village, Diliman, Quezon City

Amazing Laws You'll Wish The Philippines Would Have

With all the laws of our country, you would wish to have some amazing laws, right?  The true nature of laws is not to make the country awesome in the first place.  However, wouldn't it be nice and fun if we had laws which most people can enjoy.

Well, we were able to grab and study some of the best and most creative foreign laws in the world. I'm pretty sure that you'll wonder why our previous presidents never thought of these... And I do not have an answer to that as well.

Sliding scale for fines - Finland

Here in the Philippines, when you get caught speeding, your fine will be the same no matter how much you earn or how much your tax is.  In Finland, this is not the case.  If you get caught speeding, you'll be fined depending on the speeder's income.  They determine your average daily expenses, cut that number in half, then multiply by days from 1 to 120 depending on how serious your case is. In 2015, a successful Finnish businessman named Reima Kuisla was pulled over for going 64 mph (102.998 km/h) in a 50 mph zone.  Can you guess his fine?  Well, it's only 54, 000 Euros which is equivalent to more than $60, 000.  

Paid parental leave law - Estonia

A few months back, the senate approved the 120-day maternity leave.  But, this leaves the dad exempted.  It also became a discussion to extend the paternal leave to 15 days but the issue was not closed.  Most countries have paid maternal leaves while a few number of countries don't.  In that don't, what I mean is that it is their company's decision if they will approve this leave or not.  Take a look at this chart of maternal leaves around the globe.

As you can see, there are countries that provide their people paid maternal leaves but there are also countries that don't. Estonia, on the other hand took it to a different level.  The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development says that Estonia allows up to 87 weeks of 100% paid leave for every new parent. Well that's more than a year and a half.  Wouldn't this law be great to our situation?

Nationalized health care system - France

Here in the Philippines, we cannot deny the fact that one of the more expensive things is health. Furthermore, we Filipinos, as much as possible, try to avoid being ill or else, a staggering medical bill is just right our bedside.  Yes, since the era of our new president, they are trying to cope and improve the health care system but what chances do they have against France? France ranks first in the WHO's (World Health Organization) 2000 World Health Report.  Why? Because their government handles most medical bills of their citizens.  Although citizens can get their own personal private supplemental insurance, it's still their decision and this law right here is fairly written.

Bicycle safety laws - Netherlands

Two years ago, around 818 cyclists died in the motor vehicles incident in the United States. The prior year, 185 cyclists in the Netherlands were killed as well; so they devised a law to protect their cyclists.  In 1999, the Dutch government created the Dutch Bicycle Master Plan which gives privilege to cyclists over vehicle drivers. Let's take this as an example; if a bicycle and a car collides in the Netherlands, the driver's insurance is on the line right away.  Dutch cities continues to improve and find ways to make cycling even safer.  After all the tragedies involving bicycles, it was surely positively responded to by the Dutch government.

Urban agriculture law - Cuba

Cuba had an unfortunate encounter with the Soviet Union which in turn molded them to what they are now.  From that time, the Cuban government realized that the occurrence was a great opportunity for them to be healthier.  Moreover, it allowed for more sovereign and efficient food base by implementing an urban agriculture law.  And what does this law do?  Well it's just allowing unused land to be plotted with crops for food production - legally and without a price.

Mandatory paid vacation - European Union

While some countries like the U.S do not allow paid vacations, the European Union took it up a notch and declared it mandatory.  Whilst here in the Philippines, paid leaves are dependent on the company, the points or credits are still earned depending on your regularity and position.  So, the European Union labor law gives its workers 4 weeks of paid vacation time each year.  Yes this is on top of sick leaves, vacation leaves, holidays, and other paid leaves under the European Union.

Back in 2012, the European Union Court of Justice even imposed  “a worker who becomes unfit during his paid annual leave is entitled at a later point to a period of leave of the same duration as that of his sick leave.”

Wouldn't it be nice to have a rule like this?

Now I know that not all countries' rules can be the same; it's just because cultures are different and the way they discipline their people is not the same as well.  But, just thinking about it, have you ever thought of these laws to be implemented by our government?  Would it be of big aid if they really did?

Justin Bieber Concert Tour in PH - Ticket Prices Out!

A lot of our local "Beliebers" would be excited because their idol is visiting our country again! Since these past few months, a lot of rumors were spreading that he's going to visit the PH again after his last concert tour.  Skeptics did not believe that but the news turns out to be true! Filipino Beliebers would get another chance to see him perform live in the Philippines.  After some time, the grown, buffed, and more matured Justin Bieber will be returning back on stage for his fans here in the Philippines.

Bieber brings his "Purpose" Tour to the Philippine Arena in Bulacan on September 30, 2017, concert promoter Music Management International (MMI Live) said Wednesday.

Now I know that fans nationwide are hyped enough to know how much it's going to cost.  Good news for you, then because it was released!

Ticket prices of Justin Beiber's PH concert in 2017:

• VIP standing: P17,850
• Lower Box A Premium: P15,750
• Lower Box A Regular: P12,600
• Lower Box B Premium: P10,500
• Lower Box B Regular: P8,400
• Upper Box A: P5,250
• Ppper Box B Premium: P4,200
• Upper Box B Regular: P3,150
• Upper Box B Sides: P1,575

MMI LIVE tweeted the said event together with the ticket prices last June 28, 2017 at 8:00 A.M.

JUSTIN BIEBER | #PurposeTourMNL | 9.30.17 | PHILIPPINE ARENA | Tickets on sale 7.9.17 https://t.co/HCHUiNjNaW pic.twitter.com/3w6eYjuBNi

— MMI LIVE (@mmilive) June 28, 2017

Another good news for fans because ticket prices will go on sale via SM Tickets on July 9, 2017! To refresh your memory, Justin Bieber, more or less, visited our country a couple of times now.  His first concert which was held here on May 2011, on 2013 when he went to Tacloban, Leyte and visited typhoon victims of Yolanda. This September, prepare to be amazed and starstruck as the 23-year old Canadia singer-songwriter serenades the Philippines with his top-hit songs.  Since he was discovered and named as a little boy who can sing, he has brought tears and smiles to everyone.  We can't deny his fame and his talent as he is truly an exceptional artist!

HMD Global to Launch the New Nokia 3310 2017 and Nokia 3, 5 & 6 in the Philippines on June 8

Great news for mobile consumers in the Philippines who've long been waiting for the official launching of the reimagined Nokia 3310 as well as the all-new Nokia-branded Android Smartphones and will be held in an exclusive venue within NCR on Thursday, June 8, 2017! This was revealed by a press invite from HMD Global.

They call it "The New Home of Nokia Phones" - and their local PR agency for the PH media launch of the above-mentioned handsets. HMD Global has previously stated that all its products will be available in the Philippines. These include the Nokia 3, Nokia 5, Nokia 6, and Nokia 3310.

Other feature phones of the same brand are already being sold in the country such as the Nokia 216 and Nokia 215.

There are also rumors about the yet to be unveiled Nokia 8 and Nokia 9. However, these won’t be included in the local event.
New Nokia 3310 Features

The new Nokia 3310 has a 2.4-inch color display, Nokia Series 30+ operating system, 2.0 Megapixel camera with LED flash, and 2G connectivity. There’s also 16MB of internal storage and a microSD card slot.

A 1200mAh battery powers the Nokia 3310 for up to one month of standby time or 39 hours of listening to FM Radio. These are all housed in glossy and bright-colored plastic casing. HMD Global also highlighted the built-in Snake game.
Nokia 3310 Feature Phone

Before we all get too excited, remember that the Nokia 3310 is still a feature phone. Hence, there’s no Wi-Fi and apps. Nevertheless, its Opera Mini browser is sufficient for checking Facebook as long as you have the patience. MP3 playback is supported too.

Nokia 3310 Price and Availability

The official price of the Nokia 3310 is €50. This is equivalent to around ₱2,650.00. However, we’re not sure if this is the same for the dual SIM version.

via pinoytechnoguide

Nokia 3310 – Phone Specifications

• 2.4-Inch QVGA Color Display (160×240 Pixels)
• Nokia Series 30+ OS
• 2.0 MP Camera with LED Flash
• 16MB Internal Storage
• Expandable Up to 32GB via microSD
• Dual SIM
• 2G EDGE and GPRS Networks
• Bluetooth 3.0
• FM Radio
• MicroUSB 2.0
• 3.5mm Audio Jack
• 115.6 x 51 x 12.8 mm
• 1200mAh Battery (Removable)
• Red, Blue, Yellow and Gray Color Options

Nokie 3, 5, & 6

via bgr

Nokia 6 Key Specifications 

• 5-inch Full HD IPS, Gorilla Glass 3
• 16 MegaPixels, PDAF, f/2.0 aperture, Dual Tone LED Flash
• 8 MegaPixels selfie cam, f/2.0
• Full HD Video Recorder
• Quad Core ARM Cortex A53 based Qualcomm MSM8937 Snapdragon 430 chipset
• Adreno 505 GPU
• 3GB RAM (4GB RAM option)
• 32GB ROM (64GB ROM option)
• Hybrid secondary nanoSIM slot supports microSD card memory expansion
• Android 7.1.1 Nougat
• Dual SIM Dual Standby
• 4G LTE Cat4
• Non-removable Li-Ion 3,000 mAh battery

Nokia 5 Key Specifications  5.2-inch Full HD IPS, Gorilla Glass

• 13 MegaPixels, PDAF, f/2.0 aperture, Dual Tone LED Flash
• 8 MegaPixels selfie cam, f/2.0
• Full HD Video Recorder
• 4 GHz Quad Core ARM Cortex A53 based Qualcomm MSM8937 Snapdragon 430 chipset
• Adreno 505 GPU
• 2GB RAM
• 16GB ROM
• Hybrid secondary nanoSIM slot supports microSD card memory expansion
• Android 7.1.1 Nougat
• Dual SIM Dual Standby
• 4G LTE Cat4
• Non-removable Li-Ion 3,000 mAh battery

Nokia 3 Key Specifications  5-inch HD IPS, Gorilla Glass

• 8 MegaPixels, autofocus, f/2.0 aperture, Dual Tone LED Flash
• 8 MegaPixels selfie cam, f/2.0
• Full HD Video Recorder
• 4 GHz Quad Core ARM Cortex A53 based Mediatek MT6737 chipset
• Mali-T720MP2 GPU
• 2GB RAM
• 16GB ROM
• Hybrid secondary nanoSIM slot supports microSD card memory expansion
• Android 7.1.1 Nougat
• Dual SIM Dual Standby
• 4G LTE Cat4
• Non-removable Li-Ion 2,650 mAh battery

Nokia is returning with their classics topped up with the innovations of today's time. Although they have been out of the game for some time, they are showing confidence and competence and will try to include themselves in the market.

No Cellphone While Driving To Be Imposed on May 18

"Texting while driving" has taken so many lives all around the world. In the U.S, there are about 1.6 million crashes every year and this is because of the distraction of our devices while we are on the road. Today, texting and driving takes about 200 deaths everyday all around the world.



Last August 2016, the Anti-Distracted Driving Act became a law. This is to prohibit distractions such as texting, browsing the internet, even answering a phone call while driving.

This law would be imposed in the 18th of May 2017. Drivers who would be pesky should be penalized accordingly. For the fines, please see below.

A driver who will be caught using his/her mobile device inside the vehicle while he/she is in the driver's seat shall be reprimanded. This includes mobile phone usage even when the car is immobile (stop on a traffic light or heavy traffic).

Here are the fines of the said law:
1st Offense: Php5,000.00 fine

• 2nd Offense: Php10,000.00 fine
• 3rd Offense: Php15,000.00 fine + 3-month suspension of driver's license
• 4th Offense: Php20,000.00 fine + revocation of driver’s license

There are exemptions to the rule which could actually save you from paying the fine.  These are as follows:

• When the phone is being used for emergency purposes such as contacting:
  • Health Care Provider
  • Law Enforcement Agency
  • Fire Department
  • Emergency Departments/Agencies;
• When operating an emergency vehicle such as a fire truck, an ambulance, a police vehicle, other vehicles used for emergency purposes.
• When the phone is in hands-free mode which allows a driver to access his/her phone without paying too much attention to it; and if the mobile device does not cross or interfere the line of sight of the driver.

A lot of us are hoping that with this new law, the calamities of texting and driving would be lessened given the fact that the government is already imposing it as a rule.  Along with this, it is also important for drivers to be strictly reminded of road rules other than this to ensure a healthy, safe, and active driving environment.