My First Visit At St. Andrew's Cathedral

Cathedral of St. Andrew, Paranaque City, Metro Manila, Philippines

By Alon Calinao Dy: Church is a relaxing place to hide whenever I have worries and troubles in life. It is where I can have an open communication with our Lord Jesus who died for all of us to redeem our sins.

As much as possible, I'd like to travel to many churches in the Philippines. I got a chance to personally visit St. Andrew's Cathedral along with my friend, Ms. Kathleen Luntao (a talented poet), last December 3. This cathedral is one of the oldest Roman Catholic churches in the country established by Augustinian friars on May, 11, 1580.

Ms. Kathleen Luntao

I decided to explore the area since I was fascinated with how they built such a sturdy structure that until now many Catholics still enjoy spending their weekends attending the mass ceremony.

I was mesmerized on how they'd managed their parish church for many decades. I really appreciated the Diocese of Paranaque for their successful work.

I met a wonderful friend and I called him Tito Carling, a Filipino-American, who enjoyed sharing stories about his past. He worked in the US Embassy in Manila for many years before he finally decided to join his wife in the United States.

Me, Tito Carling,  and Ms. Kathleen Luntao

Tito Carling called me a smart person, but I am just an ordinary person who loves expressing my thoughts. The three of us exchanged our own opinions about politics, work, personal experiences, and many other things.

Red Wine

Ms. Kathleen treated us carbonara pasta and juice drinks. Yummy! Tito Carling gave me some nuts from America as a Pasalubong. I purchased one bottle of red wine that some people believe a healthy drink in the heart as it has a powerful antioxidant that is essential to our health. 

Well, I must say that good food and friends are enough to complete my entire day.

It's not often you hear about St. Andrew's Cathedral on the TV or internet. Once you visit this stunning temple of God, I am sure you will know what I mean. The parish priest always reminds the worshipers to wear proper attire inside the church. It's definitely an old traditional way and I love it!

St. Andrew's Cathedral is a must place to pay a visit and I would definitely recommend it to all Christians visiting the area. Although I have a little time to roam around the spectacular building, the locals that I greeted seemed very happy and friendly people. Thus, it was a priceless experience during my short stay exploring the house of God.

How We Cope With The Death Of Our Little Angel

Mr. &Mrs. Dy

By Alon Calinao Dy: I'm so excited and just can't describe the feeling I have right now when I've learned that I'm going to be a dad. I don't know if I'm going to be a good father to my future child, but one thing I am sure of I will give all my love to my one and only true wealth, my precious angel.

Last 2 months, we had a false positive result and I'd seen the tears in the eyes of my wife. Honestly, I was sad too. But I comforted and assured her that God has a better plan for us.

I wholeheartedly talked to my wife that my love for her would never ever change. My wife was delighted about the assurance I told her that it was not her fault. We agreed to one another that from now on we would not pressure ourselves having a child. As much as we want to, we offered all our desires to God.

My wife was irregular and her last menstrual cycle was on September 27. I remember she was expecting her menstrual cycle in the month of October because she was having the same signs and symptoms when she has had her period.

Things sometimes happen when you least expect them to. My wife was delayed for 10 days and she tested herself with a pregnancy test kit we had in the drawer. What a great surprise when she tested positive last November 5. I had seen the result, but this time I wanted to be sure since I already learned my first lesson. 

The following day I was so wound up that I could not sleep at night. I waited my wife to have another test as it bothered me a lot to know the truth if she really tested positive in a urine pregnancy test. She was still positive...

That's right. My wife confirmed positive for 5 consecutive days. As an experienced nurse, I know it was not a confirmatory test unless I could see it on the ultrasound machine. I made an appointment with her OB-Gyne with unexplained joy in my heart.

On November 10, we arrived at around 1:00 p.m. at the Dr. Sebastian Maternity clinic in Cabanatuan City. Although her OB-Gyne, Solly Sebastian-Dimacale, had many patients, mostly pregnant women, who came for prenatal care, I could sense my heart rates raised for more than 100 beats per minute. 

I had nervous moments. At the back of my mind, what if it is another false-positive test? Instead of letting fear overwhelmed me, I prayed that everything would be alright. When it was our turn, Dr. Solly showed me the ultrasound result and I'd seen my little angel for the first time. 

The physician said that it was an early pregnancy and the baby was probably 4 to 5 weeks,  and showed me a gestational sac. She then prescribed some vitamins such as calcium and folic acid, Isoxilan to avoid abdominal cramps, and Anmum Materna milk to drink every morning and evening. 

At long last, my worries were gone. I had tears of joy in my eyes but thankfully my wife didn't notice it. At that moment, I wanted to scream loud and jump high, but I controlled myself with the intense excitement. She congratulated me after the consultation.

Food to avoid when pregnant:

• Alcohol
• Tea
• Carbonated drinks
• Caffeine 
• Raw or under cooked fish and shellfish
• Unpasteurized milk
• Fish such as swordfish, mackerel, and shark
• Processed food such luncheon meat and hot dog
• Sushi
• Unwashed fruit/veggie
• Others

The key to successful pregnancy is no other than a solemn prayer at which point when you are down, happy, and whatever you feel. I don't believe that there is an unanswered prayer. I know God has better plans for all of us. Ever since, I had a strong faith in Him. Over the last two years, I desired to have a child. Now that God granted my wishes, I'd like to let everyone know that there is a God who hears our prayers. Don't give up now! Trust Him.

My 3 Favorite Verses:

"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us."

-- 1 John 5:14

"If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."

-- Matthew 21:22

"Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart."

-- Psalm 37:4

On November 25, 2014, it was the happiest moment of my life when I saw the image and heard the heartbeats of my baby on the ultrasound monitor. I even counted the overall heart rates at 126 per minute. 

I was very happy at the time that my baby, as I named him Gabrielle (though I'd no idea what's the real gender of my little one), was healthy and made us elated for a while.

About a month later, on December 19, 2014, the saddest day came into my life when the third prenatal checkup with Dr. Solly did not go well. The obstetrician informed me that she could not find any fetal heart rate and activity after she checked my wife's abdomen on the monitor. To make it sure, She also verified and examined it through what we called transvaginal ultrasound in order to determine the overall general health of the baby.

Dr. Solly said, "the baby died." My world suddenly fell apart when I couldn't do something about it, as it was like a needle pinned my heart. I almost burst into tears. I nearly dropped my mobile phone knowing the bad news. I couldn't exactly understand what happened to our little angel since weeks ago, he seemed perfectly fine and all of a sudden he was lifeless.

The doctor assured us that it was nobody's fault; there had been a problem with his entire development as it had a little head and a large body. She predicted that the heart probably stopped beating 4 days ago. She added that it's supposedly 9 weeks and 2 days now, but due to heart problems or unknown reason he stops growing a little bit.

Dr. Solly advised my wife to take a food supplement Eveprim 1000 m.g. that aids in facilitating a monthly period and helps to soften the cervix. She also suggested her to undergo a procedure called dilation and curettage as soon as possible so that her health condition would not be compromised and be taken care of.

I know we were all shocked and at the denial stage about the unfortunate event, but my wife decided to undergo a D&C procedure since it already happened and all we need now is to accept and face the reality.

It was the most painful thing that happened to me, especially to my wife who cried almost every day and night. But the pain in life is inevitable. I simply wish I could turn back time and offer my life instead. I wish our baby did not die. I wish I could hold our little angel right now. I wish Gabrielle has survived to let him know how much we really loved him. How I wish... Oh, dear God.

I know at that moment he was in a perfect seat and in God's hand. We truly cherished a little time he had with us. Perhaps, God did not let Gabrielle live because He had better plans for him and for us.

Our baby Gabrielle was a true treasure in our lives that taught us many things. We've promised him we would never ever forget his memory as long as we are still alive. Our little angel did not fail us, but actually made us a strong couple. He made us a more loving parent with each passing day.

He reminded us that though he was not physically present with us, our love for him was a reminder that we should cherish each other day by day.

After three days, Gre Pearl was admitted at the Premier Medical Center in Nueva Ecija, Philippines; she was discharged from hospital the following day before Christmas. The D&C procedure went well and she looked fine after a D&C procedure. 

As of the moment, I continue monitoring her progress. Although it was a traumatic experience for both of us, we now believe that we would be able to overcome this big challenge in life.

My wife tried to rest after D&C

Do You Agree With This Kind of Penalization For The Rapist?

By Alon Calinao Dy: In the Philippines, there are several rape victims every day and most of them are not being reported to the proper government agencies. Nonetheless, the blame is not to the government alone, but for those irresponsible people who watch pornography and used illegal drugs.

Viewer discretion is advised

The  most usual problem is that many Filipinos always have a change of heart when it comes to decision-making. If they desire a real change and harsh punishment for the criminals, so be it. If they want to bring back the death penalty, then support it.

I do think that life is precious and full of choices. I am not God to decide the destiny of one's life. On the benefits of many innocent people, I do believe that many criminals have no positions on earth, especially those who have multiple rape incidents and other heinous crimes.

A lot of people tell me that "No, it is only God who possesses the right to take one's life." I appreciate their input and respect their views. At God's point, it is likely a mortal sin to kill one's life. I have asked myself these questions so many times, do these criminals also think the value of life after they shoot down people? How many innocent lives could we save if we don't give criminals another opportunity to commit crimes?

Indeed, killing innocent life is a great sin. But if the sanctions could save more lives, then let's do it. If they are confirmed rapists, it is the people's right to ascertain the safety of their loved ones. Let's not watch and wait for another rape victim. Let's do something to prevent these criminal offenses.

The rape incidents in the Philippines are rapidly increasing because the authorized people who hold the power to impose the law are not doing anything about it. The government should stand steady to our justice system. If it is necessary to move back to the old ways of punishing somebody, then  make it happen to reduce the number of killings and rape victims. 

Let's say 'Barbaric Practices or Stone to Death.' I guess that would be OK to show criminals how serious the government is to ensure the security of innocent people.

After all, history repeats itself.

Do You Think Philippines is like Singapore now if Marcos is still alive?

By Alon Calinao Dy: For more than 25 years now, many Filipinos still believe that late former president Ferdinand Marcos, who reigned from 1965 to 1986, was 'the best president ever.'

According to Marcos loyalists, the Philippines is now one of the richest lands in the world if all the parties during Marcos  regime were united. The Philippines became the top exporter of agricultural in Asia, particularly in rice. Marcos had done many infrastructure works projects during his regime than any presidents late or ahead of him.

However, during the Marcos era, there were many reported corruption, human rights violations, the communist movement of revolutionary students, military abuse, and many more.

As a result, Marcos declared Martial Law on September 21, 1972 to derail the new communist guerilla army called The New People's Army (NPA) and dissolve the ideology or principles of Mao-Tse-Tung, a well-known communist leader in China.

According to my informant, a Singaporean-Filipino official, Marcos wanted to uphold peace and order because he had a master plan for the country like Singapore. He added that the plan for the Philippines was almost the same for Singapore since Marcos and Lee Kuan Yew were best friends (a prime minister of Singapore).

Photo credit: www.foreignpolicy.com

But in the eyes of The Father of Modern Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew, Marcos was a hero who turned into a villain to his people. He stated in his autobiography that the former president actually freed Ninoy Aquino to go to the USA. Mrs. Imelda Marcos advised Aquino to stay in America because it was not safe for him to come back to the Philippines. Despite the unveiled warnings from former first lady, Ninoy just said "I would rather die on my feet with honor."

Marcos once said, " I will come up with a project that will wipe out poverty in the Philippines in two years. I want to remove the people from the economic crisis by using the Marcos wealth. Long after I'm gone, people will remember me for building their homes and roads and hospitals and giving them food."

There are what ifs in my mind right now. What if we could change the history of the Philippines? What if Ninoy and Marcos became best friends just like Marcos and Lee Kuan Yew? What if Ninoy did not die? What if there were no EDSA Revolution 1 and 2? What is the future now of the Philippines? Do you think our nation is like Singapore today?

5 Tips On How To Defend Yourself From An Abusive Senior Nurse

By Alon Calinao Dy: Working in the hospital or any other health care facilities is not that simple and leisurely. Admit it or not, there are many senior nurses who abuse their powers and authorities towards their junior nurses, and that can really be frustrating for some. 

But before moving further with this article, let’s find out first, what is the meaning of seniority? Seniority means being older of another individual not necessarily by age. For instance, the concept is like this, if I work or stay longer in this establishment before you, then I am your senior. Hence, I have more privilege and power than you. This is all about seniority and this is also present all over. This is the harsh reality of life, but you must deal with it.

Chest Diseases Hospital (formerly known as Kuwait Heart Center), Kuwait

In some instances, a senior nurse wants to prove her superiority over a junior nurse even though it’s not the right thing to do. Sometimes, a newcomer needs to conform to her command to make her feel that she is the “queen” in the nursing station. But of course, you don’t need to play along all these orders if you know it’s wrong. Besides, this does not always apply to every junior nurse who will just sit down and do nothing. What is the point of studying for 4 years in nursing if you can’t construct your own decisions or stand? What is the point of being a nurse if you do not  have a "Say"  in your workplace?

International Medical Center, Jeddah, KSA

Well, here are 5 tips on how to defend yourself from an abusive senior nurse.


1. When a senior nurse tells you to check the vital signs of her patient because she is busy chatting with her friends. 

The first thing to do is to determine the current vital signs of the patient. You must always call back the safety and priority needs of your patient first. Maybe, this is the reason why your senior nurse wants you to closely monitor the patient’s conditions because the patient is unstable. 

However, if all the vital signs are stable, document the results in the patient’s chart and do not report or come back immediately to the nursing station. Have your senior nurse worry for you for a while, so that she will look the results for herself.


2. When a senior nurse asks for a short lunch break, but it takes excessively long.

If a senior nurse asks for a lunch recess, let her make the break. But before she entrusts her responsibilities to you, better be sure you are capable and know her important assignments, so you suffer no problems later on.And when it takes a long time for her to finish her break, don't be a hero. Live with the fact that you can’t handle alone all the patients in the ward. 

Consequently, when your nursing supervisor comes around and looks for your senior nurse, tell your nursing supervisor that you are also looking and waiting for her to come back to the station. Certainly, your senior nurse will do a lot of explanations when she returns.


3. You should know all the nursing works at the station. 

As a nurse, it is extremely important that you know your work, nursing job descriptions, and hospital policies. Just in case a senior nurse fails you in the evaluation, you could challenge her and tell your nursing supervisor or nursing director that you do not deserve the outcome of the evaluation. In this manner, the superiors will investigate and will somehow reevaluate you. If it turns out that you are a competent nurse, it is a big disgrace or a smack in the face of your senior nurse.


4. Always avoid unnecessary arguments with a senior nurse.

As you know that intense arguments can lead to irrational behaviors or negative feelings between you and your senior nurse, avoid that one if possible. It is more adept to stay humble and do only your work in the hospital. Do not gossips with your colleagues about your senior nurse and stay away from any problems. 


5. Do not share all your secrets in life. 

Sharing all your personal present and past experiences can be bad for you. A Senior nurse will only have some minds about you which may lead to misconceptions. Thus, it is better to share your secrets only to those people who know you best. For example, your parents, best friends and close relatives are the most trusted and reliable people that you can share your fears or secrets.

These are just a few points on how to protect yourself from your abusive senior nurse. Nevertheless, if it is possible, avoid any troubles and treat her with love and respect. In return, she will do the same for you.

ISIS uses Social Media For Their Propaganda

By Alon Calinao Dy: There were some reports about ISIS-related activity such as ongoing alleged recruitment was happening in parts of Mindanao, particularly in Basilan, and their target was young men who were uneducated and could easily enlist themselves to the notorious terror group.

Photo credit: www.mirror.co.uk

In addition, the so-called ISIS members used their funds to recruit young Filipinos and tactics to brainwash newcomers. They even utilized social media to spread their propaganda.

According to Lt. General Rustico, a leader of Western Mindanao, said "Let us not give them the media attention they need, that is what terrorists need to create fear."

Also, President Benigno Aquino III said that he absolutely condemned ISIS and its widespread. He promised the US government that He will do everything to fight the extremist group.

Aquino told New York reporters, "Of course, we want to do something doable and within our capabilities without posing undue risks, through their forces or the country at large." 

 

The Sacred Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila

By Alon Calinao Dy: Every year, thousands of Filipino devotees attend to the feast of the Black Nazarene that is celebrated every January 9 of the year. They believe that the sacred statue of the Nazarene will transform their lives and make their dreams come true. That is why more and more fanatics want to touch the Black Nazarene during this celebration because there is something mystery of it.

Whether you believe it or not, believing in God means a good affair. It simply suggests that people welcome Jesus in their lives. They have a strong religious belief that God will answer all their prayers, hopes, and dreams in life, which I think will come true.

Perhaps, these faithful ones have witnessed how the Black Nazarene had helped them in so many ways. Some would even believe that the holy Nazarene healed a bunch of people in their various ailments. 

 The popular statue of Black Nazarene was introduced by a group of Augustinian friars on May 31, 1606

I recall when I was a newly graduate of Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at the St. Jude College in Manila, I dreamed about the Black Nazarene. It was clear in my head that I saw the Black Jesus and I was all alone in His temple. As He approached me, I was so frightened.

I also shared a similar experience with my wife's sister named Michelle. What was the meaning of our dreams? 
Why did I picture Jesus in black image?

Until today, it is still a big mystery for us. I want someone to explain what is the implication of a black Jesus. That is why I believe in this world, there are many mysteries that science cannot fully explain.

I have been utilizing the social media such as Facebook, Twitter, etc., to connect with people who have the devotion to the Black Nazarene, both here in the Philippines and other parts of the world.

Please Remember

No matter where you are, it is up to you if you trust in God, especially to the Black Nazarene. But if you do, be grateful each day for all the things that God had given you. Don't forget to say thank you and smile.

Thanks and God Bless everyone.

Are You in Favor of Death Penalty in the Philippines?

By Alon Calinao Dy: I worked in the Middle East, particularly in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, for nearly five years in total where the death penalty (also called capital punishment) was applied to prevent or reduce heinous crimes and drug trafficking. I should say it is effective as there are less reported crimes in these regions every year.

In the Philippines, murder is one of the most grievous crimes committed by people who disregard the value of life. In these past few weeks, a number of cases of killings of innocent people have been reported and most criminals can easily blot out and nowhere to find.

In my previous article, why Philippines needs more CCTV cameras, I think the government should put in more CCTV security systems on the streets to easily catch these lawbreakers. As well, it  is about time to talk about the death penalty. Just review all these grave crimes that happened this year and I am sure there is still a lot of them that have not been reported to the proper authorities.

Last June 12, an international Filipino race car driver Enzo Pastor was shot dead in Quezon City by unidentified gunmen, now the suspect is gunman PO2 Edgar Angel; the businessman Domingo De Guzman and Pastor's wife Dahlia were also associated with the murder.

Last August 14, a 26-year-old woman victim named Anria Espiritu was raped before she was obliterated due to multiple stab wounds by unknown people in Calumpit, Bulacan.

On the same date, a woman from General Trias 2, Cavite, was dragged into her room and raped before the suspected men robbed her home and stole her car.

Last September  8, a 7-year-old female child was raped and killed  by three suspected drug addicts in Paco, Manila.

A few days ago, on September 19, the veteran actress Cherry Pie Picache's mother Zenaida Sison, 75 years of age, was stabbed dead by still-unindentified assailants in Quezon City.

I am a pro life and I have heard the arguments between the government officials and religious people about death penalty. Although I believe that God is the only one who owns the right to take life away, I also consider fair justice system. I do understand that most churches are against capital punishment or the death penalty. I guess it is about time to tackle proposal to bring back the death penalty in the country in order to save more lives.

These criminals have no conscience as it becomes a habit for them to wipe out whoever is their target. They hold no fear of our justice system because it is too soft and anytime they can escape or bribe some prosecutors.
Once they receive payments, these people who supposed to serve and protect the public, will not seek justice anymore. Mga mukhang pera. Thus, ritual killings of people would continue.

I am a pro life, but if the death penalty will save more lives and reduce killings everywhere in the Philippines, I think it is about time to reconsider it.

Filipinos Should Protect The Natural Wonders, Not Waste

By Alon Calinao Dy: Aside from poverty and various criminal activites in the Philippines, there have been many changes to the country in the last 5 years. 

Filipinos have experienced nature's wrath such as floods, fires, winds, landslides, spontaneous tree limbs falling, earthquakes, typhoons, and many more.

This is a wake up call for those Filipinos who damage the environment. Those who destroy and pollute the ecosystems as there are a lot of casualties every year; many people probably don't know about these tragic events, which can be avoided or minimized if people concerned know what are the right measures to undertake when difficult situation arises.

If you want to save more lives, then this the right moment to become involved with different environmentally friendly organizations whose visions and missions are to clean towns and cities in the Philippines.

It's not too late to make Philippines a better place to live for everyone. Elsewhere across the country you can find motivated young people, who are willing to commit, sacrifice and participate, just as long as the government provides enough funds and support them for their good cause all the way.

As with other countries, safety is the number one priority for all people. Let's not wait until some people get injured or killed. Another thing is security. Let's not forget what happened last Nov. 2013 in Leyte, when the temporary emergency shelter of Yolanda victims became the danger zone that resulted to many fatalities. That was a nightmare!

The question is, are you really secured? For me, security means no injuries and deaths.

Safety and security are two crucial things that all Filipinos need in times of natural calamities. Based on my personal experience during typhoon Ondoy, I'd seen many dead bodies on the grounds. That was a very frightening experience that I wanted to forget for the rest of my life. I'm sure that's what Yolanda survivors are still experiencing right now -- the horrifying events.

Surprisingly I just found out that many government officials and leaders are not prepared for this worst case scenario. They have lack of initiative to realize any possible outcomes. They have sworn to God and people to serve and protect the interest of the public, but then they've missed all those opportunities for being overly confident. 

Of course, no one is to be blamed because they are also the victims of this devastating typhoon. I am there. I agree. But, what I try to suggest is that to think ahead of time and be prepared all the time. Also, this would serve a biggest lesson for everyone. I hope and pray the history does not repeat itself.

The beauty of the Philippines lies in the hands of every Filipino. Everyone has responsibilities not merely by words but through actions as well. In fact, Filipinos are blessed with so many things such as stunning mountain ranges, a diversity of cultures, fascinating stories, impressive food, pristine beaches, and many more. 

Let's not waste the natural wonders that God gave us. Let's clean our sorroundings and protect the mother earth.

Philippines Needs More CCTV Cameras

By Alon Calinao Dy: CCTV security systems can save lives and expose any crimes on the streets without rigid monitoring all activities in the area. Think about this, would you still commit a certain crime if you know you are being recorded by a CCTV camera?

In many countries like Singapore and United States, installing CCTV camera is very essential to secure several institutions and homes. However, in the Philippines, there are limited number of surveillance cameras on our roads. 

Last month, people encounter numerous reported crime incidents in Metro Manila and other provinces of the Philippines involving our policemen. Thanks to CCTV cameras the criminals were caught in the act that led to their arrest a couple of days ago. 

With rampart crime in the country, it is crucial to put security systems in this day and age. There is no such thing security in life. Even some of our law officers, can't be trusted, and sometimes, considered perpetrators.

Why do we need a CCTV camera?

As I said, it prevents different types of criminal activities. The application of advanced technologies can help law enforcement solve crime quickly. 

As most people know it, immediate justice is not being served if there is not enough evidence to support the case. CCTV footage is a crime solution.

In addition, the worst aspect of our justice system is the length of trial procedure before an accused person is given a final decision. 

In this way, a lot of victims' families would call a halt to cry for justice because of fear for their lives and the lives of their families.

What Can I Say About JobStreet in the Philippines?

By Alon Calinao Dy: It is true that JobStreet.com in the Philippines finds jobs for you. Yes, it assists you in getting necessary information about latest jobs and opportunities to work overseas. It also updates you on the latest job matching periodically via e-mail text or if you have a JobStreet account you can easily access to a lot of works on their site.

However, lately, I have realized that JobStreet.com is garnering more likes on their Facebook page. It seems to me that they seek more and more attention to all Facebook users. Their priority shifts from finding jobs to embracing the limelight.

In fact, last night I received an e-mail message from them that I have to like their Facebook page in order to win a brand new Samsung phone. What a shame! JobStreet even encouraged me to tell all my friends  to follow their Facebook account. Well, what is this for and why?

I had an unpleasant experience with JobStreet in the Philippines when they ran a contest last year. What were the criteria they used in this competition?

• Get many likes on their Facebook page
• Write a story how JobStreet.com helps  you to advance your career
• Attitude of every contestant

After I accomplished all these requirements and waited for the outcome of competition, one of the participants who was also one of the winners told me that I actually won the contest to be a model but since I was outside of the Philippines and couldn't attend for a one-day pictorial event in Manila, they replaced me and gave my seat to another contestant.

Until now, I don't get what is their true motive. I believe they want to get more likes and followers on their official Facebook account. I guess there is nothing wrong with that since it is like adding more friends on their page.

6 Reasons Why President Benigno Aquino III Should Stay in Power

By Alon Calinao Dy: Some people plan to oust President Benigno Aquino III from his power as the head of state. I have no complaint against Mr. President because he has not been accused to any corruption scandals to this day. 

As a matter of fact, majority of Filipinos still believe that Pnoy is a strong, respectable, and honest leader for his "bosses" or what he called the people.

Although there are so few government officials who aim to impeach him, I still don't perceive their hidden agenda why these people create so many different problems despite country's progress.

5 Ways to Reduce Air Pollution in Metro Manila

By Alon Calinao Dy: Air Pollution is a real public health concern everywhere, especially in the Philippines. Although there are many ways to protect our environment from air pollution, this article tells you 5 important ways to keep our air clean.

Air pollution is one of the big problems in many different countries. In case you are not aware, high levels of air pollution in your body may seriously damage your health. This is actually a major problem everywhere you go in Metro Manila, and our government should try to do something to reduce this harmful pollution.

For instance, in the Philippines, how many Filipinos die annually because of air pollution? Well, according to Bank 2000 Annual Review, “In Manila alone more than 4,000 Filipinos die each year because of air pollution. ” That rate is staggering, isn’t it? But what about other places in the Philippines that are affected by this problem and those deaths that are not reported officially.

So, in my own estimate it is more than that and it is likely to grow- unless we do something. I knew most of the areas in Metro Manila, because I studied nursing there for 4 years at St. Jude College. In fact, Philippines has so much natural beauty, but air pollution is one of the main problems of investors in the country, as you are going to see that thick and polluted air from traffic fumes that we call smog.

Air pollution can cause many problems to your health, as one person will suffer respiratory problems such as acute and chronic bronchitis, asthma, lung cancer, and even heart problems. If the government and all the people involved do not take appropriate measures to this problem, the number of deaths each year will continue to rise. As far as we know, carbon monoxide from motor vehicle exhaust is a dangerous substance that causes health problems. If you are exposed to it for a very long time, then you are at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and even death.

So, what are the sources of air pollution? As most people probably know, it is coming from cars, jet airplanes and from other different sources as well, such as wildfires, dry cleaners, factories, power plants, and many more. Hence, if people can only find best ways to reduce air pollution, then we will be able to avoid possible health problem conditions, and even deaths, across the country. Indeed, it is very important to live in a healthy and safe environment without worrying too much for our loved ones.

Now, what are the measures to fight air pollution?

1. Use natural mode of transport

As you can see, transportation sector alone accounts the biggest source of polluted air that would eventually result a various problems in our health. Therefore, instead of using your car, try using bicycle for real transportation. And if your workplace is not that far, it is best for you to work on foot for a change. If everyone does and tries this, well, you will be amazed by the difference it can make to the air in our towns and cities.

2. Plant trees

Even though you do not have a hobby of planting trees, believe me, it is good for everyone. It improves air quality by eliminating harmful substances in the air. If you don’t have a garden, it is better to have one.

3. Improve government’s role in controlling air pollution

It is necessary for the government to emphasize the importance of clean air in the environment, as more and more people die annually because of air pollution. It is the government priority to reduce the emissions that cause smog and must limit the number of vehicles each day. It is also important to put heavy fines for those people who are responsible of air pollution. These include people who owned power plants, factories, and other business firms who violate this kind of law. In addition, the government must ensure to get clean fuels for the people.

4. Smoking cessation

Not only smoking is dangerous to your health, but it can contribute to air pollution. According to Dr. Giovanni Invernizzi in Tobacco Control Unit, “the air pollution emitted by cigarettes is 10 times greater than diesel car exhaust.” Therefore, it is a must to stop smoking. Because you are not only protecting yourself from impending diseases such as bronchitis, emphysema, and lung cancer, but you are also protecting the environment.

5. Cooperation of the people

There is no use if the government is the only one doing the job, people need to cooperate and coordinate to the government as much as possible. In order to do this, there should be proper and strict discipline for everyone. If these things add to air pollution in the environment, then people must be responsible enough to do the right actions without being told by the government agencies.

In the final analysis, there are so many ways to reduce air pollution. But first, it would be necessary to identify the underlying causes of air pollution, before taking further actions. If the government and its people will not take the measures now, many people will certainly suffer from all types of respiratory illnesses, especially elderly and vulnerable children. But in general, we are all at risk. 

Another thing to consider is that you must save energy. By saving energy, it reduces air pollution. Use less gasoline, electricity and natural gas. Because whenever you use them, you pollute the air.