Four Lessons Filipinos Can Learn from 10 Dreadful Typhoons

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Of the many countries in the world, Philippines is the most exposed to typhoons. This is because of its location in the Pacific region, where many tropical cyclones develop and move westward towards the Pearl of the Orient.

While Filipinos have a mindset to experience up to 20 typhoons each year, it always comes as a surprise whenever one landfalls and batters certain areas. The saddest thing is that these natural disasters claim many lives and damage properties and infrastructures.

Let’s look back at the most devastating typhoons to ever hit the country in its history.

1. September 1881 typhoon (Haiphong)

Records show that this event was the deadliest tropical cyclone to impact the country at least since documentation began. Reportedly, it killed 20,000 people as it crossed Southern Luzon areas.

2. Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan)

Known as the deadliest typhoon in recent history, Haiyan became the thirtieth named storm that originated in the Pacific in 2013. It impacted the Pacific islands of Micronesia and Palau and other Asian nations (Vietnam, Taiwan, and southern China) but hit the Philippines the worst. The NDRRMC said it claimed 6,300 lives, injured 28,689 people, and left 1,061 still missing.

3. Tropical storm Uring (Thelma)

Uring struck just five months after Mount Pinatubo erupted in 1991. Although categorized only as a tropical storm, Uring brought torrential rains and caused massive flooding in most of the Visayas region. It killed 5,081 people.

4. Super typhoon Pablo (Bopha)

It was the strongest cyclone of 2012 and the strongest to ever hit Mindanao. It caused power outages, flooding, and landslides in many provinces in southern Mindanao. Super typhoon Pablo claimed 1,067 lives and left 834 people missing.

5. Typhoon Nitang (Ike)

Typhoon Nitang intensified its strength shortly before it approached the Philippines, through northeastern Mindanao. It caused 1,492 fatalities and displaced up to 400,000 people.

6. Tropical storm Sendong (Washi)

The storm hit the country during 2011’s Christmas season. It triggered massive evacuation efforts, leptospirosis outbreak in certain area, and declaration of state of national calamity (in the affected provinces). The number of fatalities remained uncertain and was pegged between 1,268 and 2,546.

7. Typhoon Yoyong (Amy)

It struck the Visayas region in December 1951. This typhoon triggered the eruption of Mount Hibok-hibok for six times and declaration of state of public calamity in 11 provinces. At least 569 lives were lost during its devastation and aftermath.

Other devastating typhoons that hit the Philippines were:

8. Typhoon Rosing (Angela) – 1995; claimed 882 lives
9. Typhoon Sisang (Nina) – 1987; claimed 808 lives
10. Typhoon Frank (Fengshen) – 2008; claimed 598 lives 

While many lives were lost in these calamities, Pinoys remain grateful for learning the best lessons in life: resiliency, preparedness, cooperation, and positivity.

Typhoon Season Essential: Keeping Survival Kit at Home

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It’s typhoon season in the Philippines once again and it’s time to take extra precaution and be prepared every single second. Knowing what’s happening in your surrounding really matters.

Are you safe enough at home when a typhoon lashes in your area? What if torrential rains and massive flooding hit and force you and your family to stay indoors for days?

Well, the best way to keep safe and stay alive is to keep a survival kit—one that you can carry, use at home, and take with you in case evacuation is inevitable.

What should you have in your kit for you to survive during and after the onslaught of the storm?

Must-Haves

Allot a space in your home which can be accessible at any time. This place can store the most useful stuff during cool weather.

Here’s what you should prepare as a storm survival kit:

Tools

Power supply is often cut during heavy downpour. Hence, it is wise if you store these tools:

• Flashlight
• Extra batteries
• Battery-powered radio
• Fully charged cellphone
• Candles
• Matches 

Food items and consumables

Staying indoors for a number of days will surely make you hungry and thirsty. Also, cool weather often triggers illness. Hence, you should have these items:

• Bottled water
• Nonperishable foods (canned goods, etc.)
• Medicine

Things with surprising uses

People’s creativity can save lives during massive flooding. Know how “trivial” things can help you survive when disaster strikes.

• Empty water container – You can hold on to this when water level rises. Make sure it is sealed and it will serve as a floating aid.
• Block of polystyrene (styropor, Styrofoam) – Like empty water storage, it can serve as a floatation device, which can save human and animal lives.
• Rope – Tying one or both ends of a rope to a stable structure can help you during strong current of floodwaters.
• Duct tape – This seems to be the most versatile of all inventions. It can be used for a variety of purposes before, during, and after a catastrophic event.

Other essentials

• First aid kit
• Swiss knife
• Manual can opener
• Plastic utensils
• Garbage bags
• Whistle

Benefits to Enjoy

You must ensure that you’re keeping a survival kit with these things all-year round. Don’t wait for a storm to come before you have them inside your home.

All these stuff will keep you safe and help you survive when no other people are there to reach out.

What’s your thought about this article? Share them by writing in the comments section below.

How Can You Benefit from DOST’s Project NOAH?

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During his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) in 2012, President Benigno Simeon Aquino III made a special mention of Project NOAH. He said, this initiative would save families during disastrous events.

Three years had passed since the launching of this groundbreaking project, but many Filipinos are still unaware of it. Well, it’s rainy season once again and we’re starting to hear and read about this project in various media outlets and platforms.

Before the next SONA unfolds and PNoy boasts about Project NOAH for the very last time, it counts that you know something about it.

In case you are not familiar with Project NOAH or know so little about it, it’s time to feed your mind.

What should you know about this high-tech program? Why and how should you use it to save your own life and other people’s lives?

What Is It?

The devastation of powerful typhoons Ondoy, Pepeng, and Sendong inspired the creation of Project NOAH—an acronym for Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards.

It is a collaborative project among various governmental agencies and the University of the Philippines but was initiated and launched by the Department of Science and Technology. It has a goal to “promote and integrate advanced science and technology to enhance disaster management and prevention capacity of the Philippine government.”

A web-based project, NOAH expands weather forecasting systems at their very best. It offers early warnings for typhoons and other disasters (e.g., landslides, flooding, etc.) through the use of an IT network. Its official web site includes many features that all offer updated info—from weather outlook, to amount of rainfall, to water level monitoring, and up to 3D mapping of flooded areas.

Well, it’s a “view-one-know-all” thing.

How to Use It

Filipinos and any web user who is concerned about the current situation in the Philippines can just go online and visit the web site, www.noah.dost.gov.ph.

The web site features a hazard map, various sections representing NOAH tools (overview, weather outlook, Doppler, weather stations, flood map, and health), search bar, measuring tools, and map visualization options. It also has newsfeeds and allows flood reporting. The site is so useful for it contains updated details and even real-time updates on many current disaster-related events.

Perks of Using It

During the launching of Project NOAH, PNoy said that Project NOAH aimed at giving people enough time to prepare, especially those living in communities near 18 major river basins.

As the country lies across the typhoon belt and on the so-called “ring of fire,” the project wants all Filipinos to always stay safe. Through this project, the government hopes to achieve zero casualties whenever catastrophes strike.

Eight Important Things to Bring When You Travel

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Taking trips far from home restricts you to bring lot of stuffs. You can only carry few things, or else, pull a heavy load.

If you have to travel out of the country, cut your pack. Here are the essential things to bring:

1.   Passport. When travelling abroad, don’t forget your passport. It is your key to get out of the country. Some people carry with them their passport as they travel and some do not. This depends on how safe or how high crime rate is in the place you will visit. Also, you may have your passport photocopied, and bring the duplicate anywhere you go. make sure that you protect this document. place it in a plastic case

2.   Tickets, itinerary, visa, and other documents. Airport’s immigration will ask for supporting documents that permit you travel. So keep these things inside your pack. Also, protect it by placing it in a plastic bag and in a secure area in your carry-on baggage.

3.   Cash. Never go out with empty wallet. Ample amount of money will help you survive. It is always advisable to bring dollars or the currency of the country you will visit.

4.   Credit card and ATM. These cards harness your spending when you have to tighten your cash expenses. Also, your credit card is a handy tool when you want to book a flight to another country.

5.   Cellphone. Communication is very important while travelling. This will aid you to find your way or to inform others. Now, everywhere you go there is an access to internet. Just google the place and you will not be lost. Another good thing about your mobile phone, it has a camera. You don’t have to carry another pocket cam, right.

6.   Guide book or map. Yes, this is internet age, but you still need a map to be on track. Keep one so that you can visualize the whole country in one look.

7.   Vitamins and medicines. If you have health conditions, take your pills and supplements with you. But there are countries who have strict rules on medicines. Be sure that you tag along the prescription and a doctor’s letter.

8.   Clean clothes. Pack clean and appropriate clothes. They must be enough to the length of your stay. Jeans, shirts, shorts, underwear, and extra pair of shoes are common things to pack. If you were going to tropical countries, light garments are useful. A travel to cold country entails you to bring thick jackets and clothes.

Keep these tips and unload excessive pounds on your luggage. Have a safe and light trip.

Dubai Getaway: Seven Places to Explore

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Dubai brags few of the world’s best: architecture, modern amenities, amazing scenes, shopping centers, and inexpensive oil. But this progressive emirate country does not get much of its wealth from oil. It came from tourism.

Discover why tourists layover in Dubai. Here are the country’s hot spots that you will love to explore:

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1. Burj Khalifa

The more than 828 meters Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building. A trip on the 124th floor will bring you to the observation deck.  The viewing platform gives you a good sight of the country’s desert and ocean. During night, be amazed by the city’s glittering lights. Around the hotel are fascinating gardens with winding walkways. Also, be entertained by the Dubai Fountain, the tallest performing water in the world.

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2. Burj Al Arab

The 7-star hotel that resembles a sail is a must-visit place.  The Burj Al Arab or Tower of the Arabs is an architectural and engineering feat. It has a height of 321 meters, making it the world’s fourth tallest hotel.

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3. Dubai Mall

The city’s prime mall gives you an entry to the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Aquarium. Visit the aquarium that hubs 140 species of sea creatures. Have fun on its ice skating rink, gaming zone, and cinemas. Live music, fashion shows, endless shopping, and fine eating will entertain you. It holds annual Dubai Shopping Festival in January and February. While the Dubai Summer Surprises Festival is in July and August.

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4. Dubai Fountain

Every day, the largest dancing fountain in the world enchants thousands of tourists. The 902 feet wide fountain shoots up 22,000 gallons of water at 500 feet high. Moreover, 6,600 lights and 25 colored projectors complete the light and music show.

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5. The Palm Jumeirah

Located along the Dubai coastline, this man-made archipelago resembles a palm leaf in an aerial view. Its hotels, theme park, spas, shopping malls, beach resorts, and many more will complete your break.

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6. Jumeirah Beach

If you want fun, white sand, and sun, the Jumeirah Beach is a place to go. Enjoy different water activities, sun loungers, and restaurants.

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7. Dubai Marina

This man-made marina is another tourist attraction that offers great views, walkways, boat rides, and a mall. Yachtsmen will love the place as it offers the best docking place for yachts.

With all these pretty spots, you will not ask why Dubai is a tourist destination. It is one of the best places you could ever visit. From attraction, nightlife, and dining, get a good getaway here.

Eight Must-See Places When You Visit Singapore

Every year, Singapore lures many tourists. Perhaps, its modern wonders drive people to visit the country. Having a blend of Asian and European cultures is even inviting to travelers across the globe. 

If you want to layover in this multi-cultural city, here are places you should not miss:

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Marina Bay

You will regret if you fail to visit this more than 5 billion US dollar worth spot. The place is complete with luxury hotel, shops, restaurants, convention center, and entertainment centers. You will find the ArtScience Museum here. Its indoor skating rink made of synthetic ice will fascinate you.

Singapore Flyer 

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Located at the Marina Bay, the 165 meters high Flyer can give you a full glimpse of iconic and historical spot along the Singapore River. Also, view parts of Malaysia and Indonesia. The place offers restaurants, shops, and other services.

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Merlion Park

Singapore’s iconic symbol is a must-see spot. The 28 feet half lion and half fish figure is the country’s pride. Also, enjoy the capturing beauty of Marina Bay.

Botanic Gardens 

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Freshen up your lungs by going to the green garden that opens at 5:00 am to midnight. Joggers, dogs, Tai-chi lovers, and health conscious people head to the place every day. Also, visit the National Orchid Garden in the park where different breed of orchids grow.

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Chinatown Heritage Centre

Take a slice of Singapore’s history by going to the center. Immerse in the 19th and early 20th century bedrooms, kitchens, and street scenes. It has been recreated to revive and share olden times.

Jurong Bird Park 

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The 50-acre park hubs a large collection of birds from Africa and South America. Be amazed by the 30 meters man-made waterfall. The Birds n Buddies shows that display various species will entertain you. Hear the singing parrots and view the pelicans catching their lunch. You can even feed amiable lories with your own hands.

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Singapore Zoo

Singapore Zoo has been tagged as the world’s best rainforest zoo. The country brags the park because it treats animals well with plenty of food and suitable habitat.

Universal Studios 

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Experience great rides and attractions at Universal Studios. Have a close encounter with your favorite cartoon and animated film characters. Walk on the Hollywood Boulevard, get a Transformers ride, and be involved in intergalactic battles at the Sci-Fi City. The park offers other themed zones like the Lost World, Ancient Egypt, Madagascar, and Far Far Away.

If you are going to Singapore, these are just few places to visit. You will find more spots that are beautiful. Art lovers, history experts, and party buffs will love the city.

Top 10 Indoor Activities to Do in Manila This Rainy Season

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Enjoy the rainy season without getting wet! Kill the boredom and try these ten indoor activities. Explore Manila and have fun with your family and friends even when it’s raining.

1. Indoor Wall Climbing

Do you want to stretch your muscles without getting wet? If you’re just around the metro, try indoor wall climbing at Power-up. They have branches in Centro Atletico Cubao, Old Balara, and R.O.X.

2. Museum Hopping

Museum hopping lets you learn more about our country while having fun with your friends and family. You can add National museum, Manila Ocean Park, and Children’s museum to your “to visit list.”

3. Mystery Solving

Unleash the detective in you! Tag your friends along and try solving a mystery within an hour to escape the first live escape room game in the Philippines. They have branches in Libis and Makati.

4. Prison Escaping

Pump up your adrenaline and try escaping a zombie-infested home or a prison room in the midst of a riot within 45 minutes! You can find Breakout Philippines in Paragon Plaza, Mandaluyong City.

5. Board Game Playing

With over 300 games, you and your friends can enjoy playing while eating or sipping hot coffee at Ludo Boardgame Bar and Café in Burgos Circle, BGC.

6. Indoor Skateboarding

Feel the rush and enjoy skateboarding even when it’s raining. Verve, an indoor skate park in Malate, Manila can make it all possible.

7. Kangaroo Jumping

Have a whole body workout by jumping, bouncing, and dancing around with Kangaroo shoes from FTX. Visit them in Salcedo Village, Makati and sign up for a class.

8. Silent Movie Watching

Experience the magic of the silent film era accompanied by live musical performances brought to you by the International Silent Film Festival Manila. They offer free admission on first come first served basis opening this August 27-30 in Shang Cineplex, Mandaluyong City.

9. Salsa Dancing

If you’re tired of the usual clubbing, try salsa dancing every Saturday evening at Chihuahua Mexican Grill along Makati Ave. The Salsa Project also offers free lessons if you don’t know the basics.

10. Duckpin Bowling

Have a bowling match with a twist with your friends and family. You can visit UPAA Recreation Hall at U.P. Diliman. It’s where they offer a not so usual bowling game with smaller pins and balls.

Do you know other fun indoor activities? You can post them in the comments section below.

Top 10 Overweight and Obesity-Related Health Problems

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Besides having an apple-shaped body, being overweight or obese can also cause serious health problems. Due to this fact, the National Nutrition Council (NCC) decided to focus this year’s nutrition month theme on the growing problem of obesity in the Philippines. To help them raise awareness, here are the top 10 obesity-related diseases that you can avoid if you’re healthy.

1. High Blood Pressure – with weight gain and age, blood pressure tends to increase, too. Though the reason obesity is the major cause of high blood pressure is still unknown, research has shown that obese people displayed an increase in blood volume and arterial resistance.

2. Diabetes – insulin resistance can lead to type 2 diabetes and being obese contributes to the development of diabetes by making cells more resistant to the effects of insulin.

3. Heart Disease – aside from coronary heart disease, being obese can also lead to heart failure, a condition in which your heart can’t pump enough blood to meet your body’s needs.  

4. Stroke – the risks of having a stroke increases as BMI rises due to the buildup of plaque in your arteries. It causes blood clotting that blocks the flow of blood and oxygen to your brain that causes the stroke.

5. Cancer – obesity increases your chances of having a colon, gallbladder, breast, or endometrial cancer.

6. Infertility – excess fats in your reproductive system can cause menstrual issues and infertility in women.

7. Osteoarthritis – is a condition that occurs if the tissue that protects the joints wears away and extra weight can put more pressure and wear the tissues on your joints.

8. Sleep Apnea – is a sleeping disorder that causes shallow breaths due to the excess fat stored around the neck, narrowing the airway.

9. Skin Infections – obese people tends to have excess skin folds that can be irritated from excess sweating or friction that can lead to skin infections.

10. Gallstones – obese people have a higher chance of having gallstones that are mostly made of cholesterol. It can cause stomach or back pain if not removed.

If you’re obese or overweight, take action! Avoid these health problems by eating healthy food in moderation and exercising.

Perfect Comfort Food? What Pinoys Eat during Rainy Season

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What does rainy season mean to Filipinos? Without a doubt, many would agree that this is the period of numerous work and class suspensions. Hence, this season brings family members closer as they have time to bond together indoors.

What are local households up to during heavy downpour? Well, some prefer to lie down all-day long, some play indoor games, some watch or listen to weather updates, and many opt to eat! Yes, Pinoys become foodies during cool season.

Eat, Eat, and Eat!

While drinking coffee is so common during cold weather, Pinoys can’t help but to have some solid foods and slurps.

What Filipinos eat when cold weather blankets the surrounding may surprise other races! Here’s a list of what locals indulge in when strong winds and rains hit hard in the area.

• Champorado

A chocolate-flavored rice porridge barely made up of “malagkit” (sweet glutinous rice) and cocoa powder (or pure tablea block). It tastes so good when topped with milk (either evaporated or condensed milk) and partnered with dried fish known as “tuyo.”

• Lugaw (a.k.a. arroz caldo) or Goto

A local rice porridge recipe that is very similar to Chinese congee. It is cooked with chicken broth and many spices (fried garlic, salt, onion, ginger, fish sauce, and bits of chopped scallions).

• Noodle

Even during summer, this one seems to be an alternative to Filipinos’ staple food, rice. But eating a bowl of hot noodles—any type, any brand, any flavor, and any method of preparing it—is really a hit during rainy season. Locals drop scrambled eggs shortly before the noodles are to be served to make the soup creamy and thick.

• Varieties of Soup

When it rains, our body seeks comfort and warmth. The best way that we can do? Fill our stomach with hot soup. Filipinos eat many kinds of soup, such as sopas, lomi, bulalo, sotanghon, and molo soup.

Well, it’s no surprise that all foods listed above are served hot. All these are perfect to keep warm body temperature. What’s even good about these comfort foods is that they can be cooked and eaten during rainy morning, dark-skied afternoon, and stormy evening.

How about you, which comfort foods do you eat during rainy season? Share your thoughts by placing them in the comments section below.