This is an excerpt from Google Crisis Response,
Resources related to the 2011 Japan Crisis
On March 11 at 2:46pm JST a massive 9.0-magnitude earthquake occurred near the northeastern coast of Japan, creating extremely destructive tsunami waves which hit Japan just minutes after the earthquake, and triggering evacuations and warnings across the Pacific Ocean. The earthquake and tsunami have caused extensive and severe damage in Northeastern Japan, leaving thousands of people confirmed dead, injured or missing, and millions more affected by lack of electricity, water and transportation.
SOURCE
==========================
Go to Google Crisis Response page if you want to help. You'll find here ways to contribute to relief efforts in Japan. Also, this website has a Person Finder; Alerts and Status regarding Blackout info, different Electric Power companies, Government agencies, U.S. State Dept. & Embassy Resources; Transit status of Trains and buses (Japanese language); Flight Status; Radiation and health information, Shelter information; and many more! This website also has Realtime updates.
Go to Google Crisis Response page to know more.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Wind near nuclear plant to blow out to sea
This news is from smh.com.au
Wind near nuclear plant to blow out to sea
March 17, 2011 - 12:53PM
The wind near a quake-hit nuclear complex in north-east Japan that has released radiation into the atmosphere is forecast to blow from the north-west today, moving towards the Pacific Ocean, the weather agency said.
Plus, the tsunami-ravaged coast has now been hit by an unseasonal late snow dump, compounding the misery.
The wind near the plant, which is on the coast, will blow as fast as at 12 metres a second, the Japan Meteorological Agency in Fukushima prefecture said.
Advertisement: Story continues below
The Fukushima Daiichi plant, run by Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO) , is about 240 kilometres north of Tokyo.
The plant sent low levels of radiation wafting into Tokyo this week, triggering both fear in the capital and international alarm.
Officials said radiation in Tokyo was 10 times normal at one point on Tuesday, but not a threat to human health in the sprawling high-tech city of 13 million.
Early today, radiation levels were barely above average.
But many Tokyo residents stayed indoors. Usually busy streets were nearly deserted. Many shops and offices were closed.
A Japanese military helicopter has dumped water from a huge bucket on to the stricken nuclear power plant, as US officials warned of a rising risk of a catastrophic radiation leak from spent fuel rods.
Cold snap
The plight of hundreds of thousands left homeless by the earthquake and devastating tsunami that followed worsened following a cold snap that brought snow to worst-affected areas.
Supplies of water and heating oil are low at evacuation centres, where many survivors wait bundled in blankets.
About 850,000 households in the north were still without electricity in near-freezing weather, Tohuku Electric Power Co. said, and the government said at least 1.5 million households lack running water.
"It's cold today so many people have fallen ill, getting diarrhoea and other symptoms," said Takanori Watanabe, a Red Cross doctor in Otsuchi, a low-lying town where more than half the 17,000 residents are still missing.
Reuters, agencies
To know more go to SOURCE
========================================
The crisis worsens. But there's always a good news here. People helping each other! I heard from different news channels that there a lot of people helping, not only experts regarding nuclear radiation but also people from different walks of life, from children to business people around the world.
Wind near nuclear plant to blow out to sea
March 17, 2011 - 12:53PM
The wind near a quake-hit nuclear complex in north-east Japan that has released radiation into the atmosphere is forecast to blow from the north-west today, moving towards the Pacific Ocean, the weather agency said.
Plus, the tsunami-ravaged coast has now been hit by an unseasonal late snow dump, compounding the misery.
The wind near the plant, which is on the coast, will blow as fast as at 12 metres a second, the Japan Meteorological Agency in Fukushima prefecture said.
Advertisement: Story continues below
The Fukushima Daiichi plant, run by Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO) , is about 240 kilometres north of Tokyo.
The plant sent low levels of radiation wafting into Tokyo this week, triggering both fear in the capital and international alarm.
Officials said radiation in Tokyo was 10 times normal at one point on Tuesday, but not a threat to human health in the sprawling high-tech city of 13 million.
Early today, radiation levels were barely above average.
But many Tokyo residents stayed indoors. Usually busy streets were nearly deserted. Many shops and offices were closed.
A Japanese military helicopter has dumped water from a huge bucket on to the stricken nuclear power plant, as US officials warned of a rising risk of a catastrophic radiation leak from spent fuel rods.
Cold snap
The plight of hundreds of thousands left homeless by the earthquake and devastating tsunami that followed worsened following a cold snap that brought snow to worst-affected areas.
Supplies of water and heating oil are low at evacuation centres, where many survivors wait bundled in blankets.
About 850,000 households in the north were still without electricity in near-freezing weather, Tohuku Electric Power Co. said, and the government said at least 1.5 million households lack running water.
"It's cold today so many people have fallen ill, getting diarrhoea and other symptoms," said Takanori Watanabe, a Red Cross doctor in Otsuchi, a low-lying town where more than half the 17,000 residents are still missing.
Reuters, agencies
To know more go to SOURCE
========================================
The crisis worsens. But there's always a good news here. People helping each other! I heard from different news channels that there a lot of people helping, not only experts regarding nuclear radiation but also people from different walks of life, from children to business people around the world.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Japan crisis continues, blaze in nuclear reactor No. 4
This news is from hindustantimes
Japan crisis continues, blaze in nuclear reactor No. 4
Agence France-Presse
Tokyo, March 16, 2011
A new fire on Wednesday at a quake-hit atomic power plant compounded Japan's nuclear crisis as a team of US experts headed to the country to help avert disaster. The pre-dawn blaze at the number-four reactor of the Fukushima No. 1 atomic power plant reportedly went out of its own accord 30 minutes after being spotted, the state atomic safety agency said.
But white smoke or steam was seen above the stricken plant around 10:00 am (0100 GMT).
Media reports said that it was coming from the reactor number three building, which was hit by a blast on Monday that tore off the building's outer structure.
Plant operator Tokyo Electricity Power Co (TEPCO) said that it did not know where the smoke was coming from.
Engineers have been battling a nuclear emergency at the 40-year-old plant since a massive earthquake and tsunami knocked out cooling systems last Friday and fuel rods began overheating.
There have been four explosions and two fires at four of the plant's six reactors, and radioactive material has been released into the atmosphere. Two workers have been missing since the disaster struck.
Radiation levels near the plant had reached levels harmful to health on Tuesday, the government said.
Tens of thousands have been evacuated from a 20 kilometre (12 mile) zone around the plant, and thousands of others within a 20-30 km radius were urged to stay indoors.
Eight experts from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission were to arrive on Wednesday to advise on managing the situation, the foreign ministry said.
The hydrogen gas blasts which began Saturday have shattered or damaged buildings housing the reactors and a reactor containment vessel may have suffered damage, the chief government spokesman said.
The government has also reported apparent damage to the suppression pool surrounding the base of the containment vessel of the number-two reactor.
The nuclear safety agency, citing information from TEPCO, said 70% of the fuel rods at the number-one reactor and 33% at the number-two reactor are believed damaged judging by radiation levels.
It was possible the rods' metal cladding had melted, exposing the radioactive core, a spokesman said.
Seawater is being pumped around the fuel rods in a desperate attempt to cool them down, but there are also fears about pools which hold spent rods.
If water in the pools evaporates, the spent rods would be exposed to the air and radioactive material would be released into the atmosphere.
TEPCO initially considered spraying boracic acid over the containment pool at reactor number four but is now leaning towards pumping it through fire engines, the safety agency spokesman said.
Boracic acid curbs nuclear fission by absorbing neutrons, a key element in a nuclear chain reaction.
The main US nuclear energy regulator backed Japan's efforts, saying on Tuesday it had taken appropriate actions. But there was greater concern elsewhere.
Scared Tokyo residents filled outbound trains and rushed to shops to stock up on face masks and emergency supplies amid heightening fears of radiation headed their way.
Officials said on Tuesday that the levels in the mega-city were above normal but not harmful to health.
France's Nuclear Safety Authority said the disaster now equated to a six on the seven-point international scale for nuclear accidents, ranking the crisis second only in gravity to Chernobyl.
Europe's energy commissioner Guenther Oettinger went further and dubbed the nuclear disaster an "apocalypse", saying Tokyo had almost lost control of events at the Fukushima plant.
"There is talk of an apocalypse and I think the word is particularly well chosen," he said in remarks to the European Parliament.
To know more, go to SOURCE
=============================
It is great to hear that US experts are headed to Japan to help.
Japan crisis continues, blaze in nuclear reactor No. 4
Agence France-Presse
Tokyo, March 16, 2011
A new fire on Wednesday at a quake-hit atomic power plant compounded Japan's nuclear crisis as a team of US experts headed to the country to help avert disaster. The pre-dawn blaze at the number-four reactor of the Fukushima No. 1 atomic power plant reportedly went out of its own accord 30 minutes after being spotted, the state atomic safety agency said.
But white smoke or steam was seen above the stricken plant around 10:00 am (0100 GMT).
Media reports said that it was coming from the reactor number three building, which was hit by a blast on Monday that tore off the building's outer structure.
Plant operator Tokyo Electricity Power Co (TEPCO) said that it did not know where the smoke was coming from.
Engineers have been battling a nuclear emergency at the 40-year-old plant since a massive earthquake and tsunami knocked out cooling systems last Friday and fuel rods began overheating.
There have been four explosions and two fires at four of the plant's six reactors, and radioactive material has been released into the atmosphere. Two workers have been missing since the disaster struck.
Radiation levels near the plant had reached levels harmful to health on Tuesday, the government said.
Tens of thousands have been evacuated from a 20 kilometre (12 mile) zone around the plant, and thousands of others within a 20-30 km radius were urged to stay indoors.
Eight experts from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission were to arrive on Wednesday to advise on managing the situation, the foreign ministry said.
The hydrogen gas blasts which began Saturday have shattered or damaged buildings housing the reactors and a reactor containment vessel may have suffered damage, the chief government spokesman said.
The government has also reported apparent damage to the suppression pool surrounding the base of the containment vessel of the number-two reactor.
The nuclear safety agency, citing information from TEPCO, said 70% of the fuel rods at the number-one reactor and 33% at the number-two reactor are believed damaged judging by radiation levels.
It was possible the rods' metal cladding had melted, exposing the radioactive core, a spokesman said.
Seawater is being pumped around the fuel rods in a desperate attempt to cool them down, but there are also fears about pools which hold spent rods.
If water in the pools evaporates, the spent rods would be exposed to the air and radioactive material would be released into the atmosphere.
TEPCO initially considered spraying boracic acid over the containment pool at reactor number four but is now leaning towards pumping it through fire engines, the safety agency spokesman said.
Boracic acid curbs nuclear fission by absorbing neutrons, a key element in a nuclear chain reaction.
The main US nuclear energy regulator backed Japan's efforts, saying on Tuesday it had taken appropriate actions. But there was greater concern elsewhere.
Scared Tokyo residents filled outbound trains and rushed to shops to stock up on face masks and emergency supplies amid heightening fears of radiation headed their way.
Officials said on Tuesday that the levels in the mega-city were above normal but not harmful to health.
France's Nuclear Safety Authority said the disaster now equated to a six on the seven-point international scale for nuclear accidents, ranking the crisis second only in gravity to Chernobyl.
Europe's energy commissioner Guenther Oettinger went further and dubbed the nuclear disaster an "apocalypse", saying Tokyo had almost lost control of events at the Fukushima plant.
"There is talk of an apocalypse and I think the word is particularly well chosen," he said in remarks to the European Parliament.
To know more, go to SOURCE
=============================
It is great to hear that US experts are headed to Japan to help.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Fresh footage of huge tsunami waves smashing town in Japan
This video is from RussiaToday
To know more go to video source
======================================
This is really a traumatic experience to everyone...there are still a lot of missing persons. According to Foxnews Latino, based on the latest tally by Japanese police, there are nearly 1,900 people have been confirmed dead and 3,002 are missing as a result of last week's powerful earthquake and subsequent tsunami.
Let's continue to pray for them...
To know more go to video source
======================================
This is really a traumatic experience to everyone...there are still a lot of missing persons. According to Foxnews Latino, based on the latest tally by Japanese police, there are nearly 1,900 people have been confirmed dead and 3,002 are missing as a result of last week's powerful earthquake and subsequent tsunami.
Let's continue to pray for them...
No truth to radiation text msg: gov't
Another [latest] news from abs-cbn,
No truth to radiation text msg: gov't
abs-cbnNEWS.com
Posted at 03/14/2011 4:00 PM | Updated as of 03/14/2011 4:39 PM
MANILA, Philippines - There is no truth to text rumors that radiation from a nuclear plant in Japan has reached the Philippines, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) said Monday.
DOST Secretary Mario Montejo said the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI)'s routine daily radiation monitoring in the environment showed the level of radiation in the environment in the country has remained stable since the Fukushima incident in Japan.
"The advice that people should stay indoors and to wear raincoats if they go outdoors did not come from DOST or any agency member of the National Disaster Coordinating Council," the DOST said in a statement.
The department also advised the public not to believe rumors currently spreading through text messages, emails, the Internet, and other means of communication.
"DOST emphasizes that there is no immediate danger of nuclear radiation in the Philippines," it said.
A DOST-PAGASA plume trajectory study also showed that the plume from the site of the incident at Fukushima will not pass the Philippine territory as of March 14, 2011.
"The direction of the smoke appears to go away from the direction of the country," DOST-PNRI Director Alumanda dela Rosa said. "The smoke is carried away by the northeast monsoon (amihan)."
According to DOST-PAGASA, the direction of the wind will continue to be stable until about May 15, and there is no imminent sign of weather disturbance that may affect the current wind direction.
Dela Rosa said DOST-PNRI's National Radiological Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan has put in place an organized emergency response facility for a timely, coordinated action of the Philippine authorities in the event of a radiological emergency.
Classes not suspended
The Department of Education, meanwhile, said there will be no cancellation of classes since there is no danger of radiation from Japan reaching the country.
"As advised by the Department of Science and Technology, there is no need to suspend classes based on the allegations circulating in text messages about rains that can burn or cause cancer," the DepEd said.
The department issued the advisory after receiving calls from concerned parents about circulating text messages on the radiation scare.
The Polytechnic University of the Philippines canceled classes in all levels Monday afternoon after receiving the calls from parents of students, PUP President Dante Guevarra said.
Stop spreading text hoaxes
Sen. Loren Legarda on Monday called on people to stop spreading rumors of the radiation leak in Japan reaching the Philippines.
"Sa panahon ngayon ng sakuna at trahedya at sa panahon ng krisis sa ibang bansa … hindi siguro dapat magpasimula ng mga maling impormasyon. Ito'y hindi nakakatulong," she said.
Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte also denounced those creators of text messages spreading rumors of alleged radiation contamination in the country.
“Hindi po ito nakakatulong. Wala pong lugar yung mga ganitong actuations sa ganitong sitwasyon which is already sensitive,” Valte said.
To know more, go to SOURCE
============================
I am glad that clarifications regarding the circulating sms/ txt messages about the nuclear leak at Fukushima nuclear power plant have been reported immediately...
No truth to radiation text msg: gov't
abs-cbnNEWS.com
Posted at 03/14/2011 4:00 PM | Updated as of 03/14/2011 4:39 PM
MANILA, Philippines - There is no truth to text rumors that radiation from a nuclear plant in Japan has reached the Philippines, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) said Monday.
DOST Secretary Mario Montejo said the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI)'s routine daily radiation monitoring in the environment showed the level of radiation in the environment in the country has remained stable since the Fukushima incident in Japan.
"The advice that people should stay indoors and to wear raincoats if they go outdoors did not come from DOST or any agency member of the National Disaster Coordinating Council," the DOST said in a statement.
The department also advised the public not to believe rumors currently spreading through text messages, emails, the Internet, and other means of communication.
"DOST emphasizes that there is no immediate danger of nuclear radiation in the Philippines," it said.
A DOST-PAGASA plume trajectory study also showed that the plume from the site of the incident at Fukushima will not pass the Philippine territory as of March 14, 2011.
"The direction of the smoke appears to go away from the direction of the country," DOST-PNRI Director Alumanda dela Rosa said. "The smoke is carried away by the northeast monsoon (amihan)."
According to DOST-PAGASA, the direction of the wind will continue to be stable until about May 15, and there is no imminent sign of weather disturbance that may affect the current wind direction.
Dela Rosa said DOST-PNRI's National Radiological Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan has put in place an organized emergency response facility for a timely, coordinated action of the Philippine authorities in the event of a radiological emergency.
Classes not suspended
The Department of Education, meanwhile, said there will be no cancellation of classes since there is no danger of radiation from Japan reaching the country.
"As advised by the Department of Science and Technology, there is no need to suspend classes based on the allegations circulating in text messages about rains that can burn or cause cancer," the DepEd said.
The department issued the advisory after receiving calls from concerned parents about circulating text messages on the radiation scare.
The Polytechnic University of the Philippines canceled classes in all levels Monday afternoon after receiving the calls from parents of students, PUP President Dante Guevarra said.
Stop spreading text hoaxes
Sen. Loren Legarda on Monday called on people to stop spreading rumors of the radiation leak in Japan reaching the Philippines.
"Sa panahon ngayon ng sakuna at trahedya at sa panahon ng krisis sa ibang bansa … hindi siguro dapat magpasimula ng mga maling impormasyon. Ito'y hindi nakakatulong," she said.
Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte also denounced those creators of text messages spreading rumors of alleged radiation contamination in the country.
“Hindi po ito nakakatulong. Wala pong lugar yung mga ganitong actuations sa ganitong sitwasyon which is already sensitive,” Valte said.
To know more, go to SOURCE
============================
I am glad that clarifications regarding the circulating sms/ txt messages about the nuclear leak at Fukushima nuclear power plant have been reported immediately...
Science officials: No threat of nuclear clouds, acid rain in PH
Many SMS (text messages) are now circulating here in the Philippines regarding the aftermath of earthquake and tsumani in Japan, specifically about the leak from one of the nuclear plants in Japan following an 8.9-magnitude earthquake last week. That's why I decided to search the latest news regarding this matter. Here's one from Inquirer,
Science officials: No threat of nuclear clouds, acid rain in PH
By Katherine Evangelista, Kristine L. Alave
INQUIRER.net, Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 15:24:00 03/14/2011
Filed Under: Nuclear power, Politics
MANILA, Philippines – (UPDATE) Government officials stamped down fears that acid rain and nuclear clouds allegedly resulting from a leak from one of the nuclear plants in Japan following an 8.9-magnitude earthquake last week.
The Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), sought to allay the public's fears as warnings of radioactive clouds and acid rains circulated through text messages.
The PNRI said it had been conducting tests of the air since the first explosion at the Fukushima power station on Saturday, a day after a deadly quake and tsunami struck Japan.
"Based on (our) monitoring, there has been no increase in the levels of radioactivity since the time of the Fukushima event," the agency said in an emergency response bulletin Monday.
The bulletin came hours after a second explosion at the Fukushima plant.
The PNRI also allayed fears of radiation clouds coming over to the Philippines. And should there be one, "the plume from the site of the incident will not pass Philippine territory as of March 14," PNRI said.
“It does not make sense,” said weather forecaster Raymond Ordinario when asked to react to text messages warning the public of possible contaminated rainfall caused by radiation emitted from a leak inside the Fukushima plant.
“It does not make sense dahil masyado malayo ang location ng explosion, so it does not affect our local rainfall,” Ordinario told INQUIRER.net.
“PAALALA: 4:30 in the afternoon sumabog ung isang nuclear power plant sa Fukumi (sic). Kapag umulan daw mamaya at bukas, wala daw lalabas. Kung kung lalabas kayo,siguraduhin nyong nkakapote o nkapayong kayo dhl kpag naulanan kayo, delikado daw, may tendency na masunog balat nyo, mkalbo o mgka cancer. Pls pass (REMINDER: 4:30 in the afternoon, a nuclear power plant exploded in Fukumi. Do not go out if it rains later and tomorrow. If you are going out, wear a raincoat or use an umbrella because if you get rained on it’s said to be dangerous. There is tendency that your skin will be burned, you will go bald or will get cancer. Please pass),” one of the circulating text messages read.
Ordinario denied this saying that what the message described was possible effects of acid rain.
He said that acid rain was formed when gaseous substances like sulphur and nitrogen mix and react with water in the clouds.
Ordinario said that radioactive materials were in metal form so it would not react with water.
Another text message has been spreading allegedly from BBC saying, “Japan govt confirms radiation leak at Fukushima nuclear plants. Asian countries should take necessary precautions. Remain indoors first 24hrs. Close doors n windows. Swab neck skin with betadine where thyroid area is, radiation hits thyroid first. Take extra precaution, radiation may hit Philat startng 4pm 2day. Pls send to ur loved ones."
The Agence France Presse reported that United Nations atomic watchdog International Atomic Energy Agency, has declared the radiation levels from the Fukushima nuclear power plant normal.
"Radiation dose rate measurements observed at four locations around the plant's perimeter over a 16-hour period on 13 March were all normal," the IAEA said in a statement.
Likewise, Pagasa forecaster Robert Sawi said the winds from Japan would not travel to the country. As of Monday, it has been moving west to east, which meant it has been traveling from Japan to the Pacific Ocean, he said.
“Kung sino man nagpapakalat nito, baka nananakot lang [Whoever is spreading this is probably just scaring people],” Ordinario said.
To know more, Go to SOURCE
=========================================
My son's school decided to suspend classes today as a precautionary measure...
Science officials: No threat of nuclear clouds, acid rain in PH
By Katherine Evangelista, Kristine L. Alave
INQUIRER.net, Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 15:24:00 03/14/2011
Filed Under: Nuclear power, Politics
MANILA, Philippines – (UPDATE) Government officials stamped down fears that acid rain and nuclear clouds allegedly resulting from a leak from one of the nuclear plants in Japan following an 8.9-magnitude earthquake last week.
The Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), sought to allay the public's fears as warnings of radioactive clouds and acid rains circulated through text messages.
The PNRI said it had been conducting tests of the air since the first explosion at the Fukushima power station on Saturday, a day after a deadly quake and tsunami struck Japan.
"Based on (our) monitoring, there has been no increase in the levels of radioactivity since the time of the Fukushima event," the agency said in an emergency response bulletin Monday.
The bulletin came hours after a second explosion at the Fukushima plant.
The PNRI also allayed fears of radiation clouds coming over to the Philippines. And should there be one, "the plume from the site of the incident will not pass Philippine territory as of March 14," PNRI said.
“It does not make sense,” said weather forecaster Raymond Ordinario when asked to react to text messages warning the public of possible contaminated rainfall caused by radiation emitted from a leak inside the Fukushima plant.
“It does not make sense dahil masyado malayo ang location ng explosion, so it does not affect our local rainfall,” Ordinario told INQUIRER.net.
“PAALALA: 4:30 in the afternoon sumabog ung isang nuclear power plant sa Fukumi (sic). Kapag umulan daw mamaya at bukas, wala daw lalabas. Kung kung lalabas kayo,siguraduhin nyong nkakapote o nkapayong kayo dhl kpag naulanan kayo, delikado daw, may tendency na masunog balat nyo, mkalbo o mgka cancer. Pls pass (REMINDER: 4:30 in the afternoon, a nuclear power plant exploded in Fukumi. Do not go out if it rains later and tomorrow. If you are going out, wear a raincoat or use an umbrella because if you get rained on it’s said to be dangerous. There is tendency that your skin will be burned, you will go bald or will get cancer. Please pass),” one of the circulating text messages read.
Ordinario denied this saying that what the message described was possible effects of acid rain.
He said that acid rain was formed when gaseous substances like sulphur and nitrogen mix and react with water in the clouds.
Ordinario said that radioactive materials were in metal form so it would not react with water.
Another text message has been spreading allegedly from BBC saying, “Japan govt confirms radiation leak at Fukushima nuclear plants. Asian countries should take necessary precautions. Remain indoors first 24hrs. Close doors n windows. Swab neck skin with betadine where thyroid area is, radiation hits thyroid first. Take extra precaution, radiation may hit Philat startng 4pm 2day. Pls send to ur loved ones."
The Agence France Presse reported that United Nations atomic watchdog International Atomic Energy Agency, has declared the radiation levels from the Fukushima nuclear power plant normal.
"Radiation dose rate measurements observed at four locations around the plant's perimeter over a 16-hour period on 13 March were all normal," the IAEA said in a statement.
Likewise, Pagasa forecaster Robert Sawi said the winds from Japan would not travel to the country. As of Monday, it has been moving west to east, which meant it has been traveling from Japan to the Pacific Ocean, he said.
“Kung sino man nagpapakalat nito, baka nananakot lang [Whoever is spreading this is probably just scaring people],” Ordinario said.
To know more, Go to SOURCE
=========================================
My son's school decided to suspend classes today as a precautionary measure...
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Japan: new reactor blast unlikely to cause big leak
TOKYO | Mon Mar 14, 2011 12:02am EDT
TOKYO (Reuters) - A fresh explosion at Japan's quake-stricken Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power complex on Monday is unlikely to have led to a large escape of radioactivity, the government said.
Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yukio Edano was speaking after a hydrogen explosion at the No.3 reactor in the plant, which sent a plume of smoke into the air.
Japan's nuclear safety agency later said, quoting a report from the facility's operator, Tokyo Electric Power Co (9501.T), that radiation near the No.3 reactor about 40 minutes after the explosion was about one-50th of that considered critical to human health.
The data suggests the explosion would not have damaged the reactor's containment vessel, a spokesman at the agency said at a news conference.
There were casualties, but the number or other details were not available, the spokesman said.
There is no wind near the plant near the ground and wind above the plant is blowing from the west or from the southwest, the spokesman added, meaning the wind is blowing toward the sea.
The direction of the wind is a key factor in judging possible damage on the environment from the radiation leaking from the plant, which was hit by Japan's biggest earthquake on record and a tsunami.
(Reporting by Elaine Lies and Risa Maeda; Editing by Joseph Radford)
To read more, go to SOURCE
==============================
Just like Ondoy, this is another disaster caused by our deteriorating Mother Earth. Let us pray for all the people affected by the massive earthquake and tsunami in Japan.
TOKYO (Reuters) - A fresh explosion at Japan's quake-stricken Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power complex on Monday is unlikely to have led to a large escape of radioactivity, the government said.
Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yukio Edano was speaking after a hydrogen explosion at the No.3 reactor in the plant, which sent a plume of smoke into the air.
Japan's nuclear safety agency later said, quoting a report from the facility's operator, Tokyo Electric Power Co (9501.T), that radiation near the No.3 reactor about 40 minutes after the explosion was about one-50th of that considered critical to human health.
The data suggests the explosion would not have damaged the reactor's containment vessel, a spokesman at the agency said at a news conference.
There were casualties, but the number or other details were not available, the spokesman said.
There is no wind near the plant near the ground and wind above the plant is blowing from the west or from the southwest, the spokesman added, meaning the wind is blowing toward the sea.
The direction of the wind is a key factor in judging possible damage on the environment from the radiation leaking from the plant, which was hit by Japan's biggest earthquake on record and a tsunami.
(Reporting by Elaine Lies and Risa Maeda; Editing by Joseph Radford)
To read more, go to SOURCE
==============================
Just like Ondoy, this is another disaster caused by our deteriorating Mother Earth. Let us pray for all the people affected by the massive earthquake and tsunami in Japan.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Legarda offers Roxas crash course on climate change
By Michael Lim Ubac
Philippine Daily Inquirer
TUGUEGARAO CITY—How about a basic classroom lesson on climate change after an acrimonious debate Sunday night?
Vice presidential candidate Loren Legarda told reporters here that she was willing to “educate” her rival, Sen. Manuel “Mar” Roxas II, on climate change issues, after the latter apparently belittled her environmental advocacy during the ABS-CBN “Harapan” vice presidential debate.
Legarda quipped that Roxas might have been taking a snack or could have left the Senate session hall early, during the countless times she delivered privilege speeches on the warming planet.
“Climate change is not just an election issue. My advocacy for climate change started in 1998. It is a timeless, universal issue,” she said Tuesday during a press conference.
Two million trees
“I am willing to teach him about the needs of the farmers and fisherfolk. I am willing to give him copies of my speeches on climate change in the United Nations and the Senate. I am willing to sit down and teach him, so that he could understand that El Niño is connected to hunger,” said Legarda, chair of the Senate committees on agriculture, and on health.
She claims to have planted over two million trees under her Green Philippines’ campaign for which she was recognized by the UN in 2001. She is also the UN Asia Pacific regional champion for climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction.
At Sunday’s debate held at La Consolacion College in Manila, Roxas had questioned Legarda’s priorities in making the environment her campaign advocacy, noting that the Philippines accounted for less than 1 percent of the Carbon dioxide (CO2) emission that is chiefly blamed for global warming.
Legarda had said that climate change was a gut issue, as the Philippines was one of 10 countries considered most vulnerable to disasters related to climate change.
Directly affects people
The El Niño-caused drought that damaged crops and the floods that killed many people during Storms “Ondoy” and “Pepeng,” showed that climate change was an issue that directly affected the people, she had said.
“This shows the ignorance and elitist nature of other people who don’t understand climate change, protecting the environment, banning cutting down of forests, rehabilitation of irrigation facilities, and preparedness for coming disasters to lessen tragedies caused by the changing climate,” Legarda said.
She called on her closest VP rival to go down to the grassroots and ask farmers, fishermen and ordinary folk about the effects of last year’s cyclones Ondoy and Pepeng and this year’s El Niño.
“To ignore climate change is to neglect the poor,” said Legarda.
SOURCE
====================================
Anyone could offer help even if you are not elected on your desired position in the government. After the 2010 election (Philippines), we could tell among them who really are public servants...or those who have a lot of personal agenda...
Philippine Daily Inquirer
TUGUEGARAO CITY—How about a basic classroom lesson on climate change after an acrimonious debate Sunday night?
Vice presidential candidate Loren Legarda told reporters here that she was willing to “educate” her rival, Sen. Manuel “Mar” Roxas II, on climate change issues, after the latter apparently belittled her environmental advocacy during the ABS-CBN “Harapan” vice presidential debate.
Legarda quipped that Roxas might have been taking a snack or could have left the Senate session hall early, during the countless times she delivered privilege speeches on the warming planet.
“Climate change is not just an election issue. My advocacy for climate change started in 1998. It is a timeless, universal issue,” she said Tuesday during a press conference.
Two million trees
“I am willing to teach him about the needs of the farmers and fisherfolk. I am willing to give him copies of my speeches on climate change in the United Nations and the Senate. I am willing to sit down and teach him, so that he could understand that El Niño is connected to hunger,” said Legarda, chair of the Senate committees on agriculture, and on health.
She claims to have planted over two million trees under her Green Philippines’ campaign for which she was recognized by the UN in 2001. She is also the UN Asia Pacific regional champion for climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction.
At Sunday’s debate held at La Consolacion College in Manila, Roxas had questioned Legarda’s priorities in making the environment her campaign advocacy, noting that the Philippines accounted for less than 1 percent of the Carbon dioxide (CO2) emission that is chiefly blamed for global warming.
Legarda had said that climate change was a gut issue, as the Philippines was one of 10 countries considered most vulnerable to disasters related to climate change.
Directly affects people
The El Niño-caused drought that damaged crops and the floods that killed many people during Storms “Ondoy” and “Pepeng,” showed that climate change was an issue that directly affected the people, she had said.
“This shows the ignorance and elitist nature of other people who don’t understand climate change, protecting the environment, banning cutting down of forests, rehabilitation of irrigation facilities, and preparedness for coming disasters to lessen tragedies caused by the changing climate,” Legarda said.
She called on her closest VP rival to go down to the grassroots and ask farmers, fishermen and ordinary folk about the effects of last year’s cyclones Ondoy and Pepeng and this year’s El Niño.
“To ignore climate change is to neglect the poor,” said Legarda.
SOURCE
====================================
Anyone could offer help even if you are not elected on your desired position in the government. After the 2010 election (Philippines), we could tell among them who really are public servants...or those who have a lot of personal agenda...
Friday, March 5, 2010
HP Foundation gives $500K to Chile earthquake relief
by: Sacramento Business Journal
Hewlett-Packard Co. said Thursday that its internal foundation made a $500,000 donation for relief and recovery efforts to Chile.
Palo Alto-based H-P (NYSE:HPQ) said the grant will be split down the middle between two organizations actively involved in the post-earthquake relief efforts, the American Red Cross and Doctors Without Borders.
H-P said it also launched a global fundraising program among its employees in all countries where it operates. The company has launched a dedicated Web site for employee donations, and the Hewlett-Packard Co. Foundation has committed up to $250,000 to match eligible employee contributions in a bid to raise an additional $500,000.
The Hewlett-Packard Co. Foundation recently donated $500,000 to aid Haiti relief efforts following the earthquake that devastated the country last January. In September 2009, the Foundation donated $350,000 to help the victims of Typhoon Ondoy in the Philippines.
H-P has an estimated 2,500 employees at its Roseville campus and another 1,000-plus at the former EDS facility in Rancho Cordova
SOURCE
======================================
God's blessings through HP Co. Foundation. Providing great products and paying it forward. =)
Hewlett-Packard Co. said Thursday that its internal foundation made a $500,000 donation for relief and recovery efforts to Chile.
Palo Alto-based H-P (NYSE:HPQ) said the grant will be split down the middle between two organizations actively involved in the post-earthquake relief efforts, the American Red Cross and Doctors Without Borders.
H-P said it also launched a global fundraising program among its employees in all countries where it operates. The company has launched a dedicated Web site for employee donations, and the Hewlett-Packard Co. Foundation has committed up to $250,000 to match eligible employee contributions in a bid to raise an additional $500,000.
The Hewlett-Packard Co. Foundation recently donated $500,000 to aid Haiti relief efforts following the earthquake that devastated the country last January. In September 2009, the Foundation donated $350,000 to help the victims of Typhoon Ondoy in the Philippines.
H-P has an estimated 2,500 employees at its Roseville campus and another 1,000-plus at the former EDS facility in Rancho Cordova
SOURCE
======================================
God's blessings through HP Co. Foundation. Providing great products and paying it forward. =)
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Valenzuela launches housing project for ‘Ondoy’ victims
Willie L. Catapat of Tempo
President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo graced yesterday the formal groundbreaking for a housing project in Valenzuela City intended for victims of typhoon Ondoy through the joint efforts of the government and private sectors in the city.
The housing project dubbed Disiplina Village located in Barangay Ugong will allocate housing units to 900 city residents whose houses located in the banks of Tullahan River were destroyed during the Ondoy floodings which hit the metropolis late last year.
Mayor Sherwin Gatchalian said the 1.9-hectare site was provided by the city government while funding for construction materials will be provided by the private sector through the Dakilang Handog Foundation.
The village site will also have a multi-purpose covered court, a day care center, a health center, and a livelihood training center, he added.
To know more: SOURCE
========================================
Up to this day, there are still a lot of Ondoy heroes!
President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo graced yesterday the formal groundbreaking for a housing project in Valenzuela City intended for victims of typhoon Ondoy through the joint efforts of the government and private sectors in the city.
The housing project dubbed Disiplina Village located in Barangay Ugong will allocate housing units to 900 city residents whose houses located in the banks of Tullahan River were destroyed during the Ondoy floodings which hit the metropolis late last year.
Mayor Sherwin Gatchalian said the 1.9-hectare site was provided by the city government while funding for construction materials will be provided by the private sector through the Dakilang Handog Foundation.
The village site will also have a multi-purpose covered court, a day care center, a health center, and a livelihood training center, he added.
To know more: SOURCE
========================================
Up to this day, there are still a lot of Ondoy heroes!
Monday, January 18, 2010
Cause for alarm
By JULLIE Y. DAZA of www.mb.com.ph
Killer earthquakes. Catastrophic tsunamis. Volcanic eruptions. Deadly deluges. Eerie erosions. Snow storms. Melting ice caps. Drought – El Nino, now.
Which candidate up for election has prepared a contingency plan for climate change? Loren Legarda, vice presidential candidate, seems the most ready to answer questions. Gibo Teodoro, presidential candidate, foresees a R208-billion plan to drain Metro Manila of flood waters when the next Ondoy or its Jr. hits. (Remember, he was the only government official who was at his desk, in the field, flying a chopper, riding in a truck and not sleeping for three days to oversee government relief and rescue operations as Ondoy and Pepeng turned the big city and Luzon into a stinky lake. In short, his vision of a flood-free metropolis is based on eyewitness accounts and experience – his own.)
Pity that Jun Palafox, architect and urban planner, does not have the ear of a candidate, because he’s in a state of near-panic as he sounds the alarm: Take immediate action, now! The world is turning and there is no time to lose as climate change sweeps the planet. Making do with what is do-able is the order of the day – carpe diem! – so he suggests with a note of urgency:
“1. Create awareness. [Ignorance is not bliss, it is dangerous.] 2. Publish hazard maps [instead of survey results and more survey results]. 3. Conduct geologic, hydraulogic, structural audit of buildings and infrastructures [even if the ugly truth be known], particularly if those projects were tainted with corruption in the award, construction, and obtaining of permits.”
Weathermen have forecast 19 typhoons hitting the Philippines this year. Weathermen have already told us to expect another blue moon on Jan. 30. But weathermen cannot predict when an earthquake will occur. However, we can predict that someone will deliver a nice little speech after the next disaster shakes, rattles, and ruins us to say that everything is being done to assuage the situation,
minimize the damage, and help the victims while condoling with their families. And then we’ll be able to predict that no one will believe him or her.
SOURCE
=================================
I hope the candidates would prioritized plans for climate change. Of course, our awareness (and avoidance) regarding the activities that may contribute in Global Warming is a great factor in taking care of Mother Earth.
I am not sure where exactly in Metro Manila but I think there are now bicycle lanes in some parts of the Metro. This is not only a campaign for environmental care, but also [of course] for our health. I hope there would be more bicycle lanes in Metro Manila [most especially] as well as in provinces where cars and motorbikes dominate the road.
Gosh! A forecast of 19 typhoons hitting the Philippines this year?! =(
Killer earthquakes. Catastrophic tsunamis. Volcanic eruptions. Deadly deluges. Eerie erosions. Snow storms. Melting ice caps. Drought – El Nino, now.
Which candidate up for election has prepared a contingency plan for climate change? Loren Legarda, vice presidential candidate, seems the most ready to answer questions. Gibo Teodoro, presidential candidate, foresees a R208-billion plan to drain Metro Manila of flood waters when the next Ondoy or its Jr. hits. (Remember, he was the only government official who was at his desk, in the field, flying a chopper, riding in a truck and not sleeping for three days to oversee government relief and rescue operations as Ondoy and Pepeng turned the big city and Luzon into a stinky lake. In short, his vision of a flood-free metropolis is based on eyewitness accounts and experience – his own.)
Pity that Jun Palafox, architect and urban planner, does not have the ear of a candidate, because he’s in a state of near-panic as he sounds the alarm: Take immediate action, now! The world is turning and there is no time to lose as climate change sweeps the planet. Making do with what is do-able is the order of the day – carpe diem! – so he suggests with a note of urgency:
“1. Create awareness. [Ignorance is not bliss, it is dangerous.] 2. Publish hazard maps [instead of survey results and more survey results]. 3. Conduct geologic, hydraulogic, structural audit of buildings and infrastructures [even if the ugly truth be known], particularly if those projects were tainted with corruption in the award, construction, and obtaining of permits.”
Weathermen have forecast 19 typhoons hitting the Philippines this year. Weathermen have already told us to expect another blue moon on Jan. 30. But weathermen cannot predict when an earthquake will occur. However, we can predict that someone will deliver a nice little speech after the next disaster shakes, rattles, and ruins us to say that everything is being done to assuage the situation,
minimize the damage, and help the victims while condoling with their families. And then we’ll be able to predict that no one will believe him or her.
SOURCE
=================================
I hope the candidates would prioritized plans for climate change. Of course, our awareness (and avoidance) regarding the activities that may contribute in Global Warming is a great factor in taking care of Mother Earth.
I am not sure where exactly in Metro Manila but I think there are now bicycle lanes in some parts of the Metro. This is not only a campaign for environmental care, but also [of course] for our health. I hope there would be more bicycle lanes in Metro Manila [most especially] as well as in provinces where cars and motorbikes dominate the road.
Gosh! A forecast of 19 typhoons hitting the Philippines this year?! =(
Sunday, January 17, 2010
RP pays it forward to Haiti with medical teams
By Nestor P. Burgos Jr.
Inquirer Visayas
MALAY, Aklan, Philippines—Citing the country's own disasters and the outpouring of international assistance when a series of calamities ravaged the country, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Friday said the Philippines would be sending aid to earthquake-devastated Haiti to help hundreds of thousands of victims.
"I had instructed the (Department of Health) to send medical teams to Haiti to help the earthquake victims there. And I instructed the (Armed Forces) to put our reserve peacekeeping company on standby in case the US asks for additional troops," the President said in a speech during the launching of the P2.5-billion Caticlan Airport Development Project here.
"Why? Because we are more than ready to give a helping hand as we were victims ourselves (tropical storm) ‘Ondoy,’ and (typhoons) ‘Pepeng’ and ‘Frank’ a few months ago and a year ago," she said.
"We have also been a recipient of international assistance. Now it is our turn to do that," she added.
She said that in past, the country's worst typhoons—including Reming, Ondoy and Pepeng—claimed almost a thousand lives each but in the earthquake in Haiti, at least 100,000 were casualties.
"If we suffered that way we can imagine their suffering a hundred times," Ms Arroyo said.
She said Haiti is "especially close to our hearts" because of the Filipino peacekeeping troops "who are doing a good job there and who have once again risen to the occasion as they (done) here in the Philippines each time."
The peacekeeping troops would be given medals when they return from duty, Arroyo said.
The President recalled the devastation wrought by Typhoon Frank in 2007, which ravaged Western Visayas, especially Aklan.
"Not so long ago, it was like Armageddon hit the province of Aklan. Kalibo was the worst-hit urban area in the whole impact area of typhoon Frank but now everything is back to normal," Arroyo said.
She said she was happy that Aklan has turned around from the devastation of Frank as symbolized by the new airport project.
"We are here very grateful to the Lord for our recovedry from our own calamities of nature," she said.
SOURCE
====================================
I love the principle of "paying it forward."
Doing this principle will make the world a better place whether there is or no crisis.
Inquirer Visayas
MALAY, Aklan, Philippines—Citing the country's own disasters and the outpouring of international assistance when a series of calamities ravaged the country, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Friday said the Philippines would be sending aid to earthquake-devastated Haiti to help hundreds of thousands of victims.
"I had instructed the (Department of Health) to send medical teams to Haiti to help the earthquake victims there. And I instructed the (Armed Forces) to put our reserve peacekeeping company on standby in case the US asks for additional troops," the President said in a speech during the launching of the P2.5-billion Caticlan Airport Development Project here.
"Why? Because we are more than ready to give a helping hand as we were victims ourselves (tropical storm) ‘Ondoy,’ and (typhoons) ‘Pepeng’ and ‘Frank’ a few months ago and a year ago," she said.
"We have also been a recipient of international assistance. Now it is our turn to do that," she added.
She said that in past, the country's worst typhoons—including Reming, Ondoy and Pepeng—claimed almost a thousand lives each but in the earthquake in Haiti, at least 100,000 were casualties.
"If we suffered that way we can imagine their suffering a hundred times," Ms Arroyo said.
She said Haiti is "especially close to our hearts" because of the Filipino peacekeeping troops "who are doing a good job there and who have once again risen to the occasion as they (done) here in the Philippines each time."
The peacekeeping troops would be given medals when they return from duty, Arroyo said.
The President recalled the devastation wrought by Typhoon Frank in 2007, which ravaged Western Visayas, especially Aklan.
"Not so long ago, it was like Armageddon hit the province of Aklan. Kalibo was the worst-hit urban area in the whole impact area of typhoon Frank but now everything is back to normal," Arroyo said.
She said she was happy that Aklan has turned around from the devastation of Frank as symbolized by the new airport project.
"We are here very grateful to the Lord for our recovedry from our own calamities of nature," she said.
SOURCE
====================================
I love the principle of "paying it forward."
Doing this principle will make the world a better place whether there is or no crisis.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Top artists give back to Ondoy victims
By Patricia Esteves
MANILA, Philippines
- The country’s most prolific and innovative artists banded together to raise funds for the construction of the new homes of victims of typhoon Ondoy through Gawad Kalinga.
The artworks generated some P4-M plus in a live auction/exhibit titled Art to Heart put together by Julius Babao, wife Tin-Tin Bersola and friends.
At the auction, a painting titled Casta Diva by world-renowned provocative artist Geraldine Javier was sold for P 1-M.
The devastation wrought by Ondoy has deeply affected Julius and friends and he thought of doing something to alleviate their suffering, particularly help those who lost their homes.
One day, he and friends John Jaylo and Tina Fernandez talked about a project that will help the victims.
For Julius, giving them permanent aid, rather than a band-aid solution was the best way to help. What better way to give them permanent assistance but build their homes again, Julius said.
“We brainstormed and conceptualized and then we came out with Art to Heart,” said Julius.
“It’s an auction/exhibit because I feel that the best way we can contribute to the victims of typhoon Ondoy is by giving them houses through GK,” he said.
“We came up with a project, came up with art pieces and held live auction and it’s been very successful,” he added.
Julius said he didn’t expect the turnout of support for their project and feels very grateful to the magnanimity of the artists and the art collectors.
“The turnout is more than expected. We raised about P4-M, but that is not the final amount yet,” he said.
He also shared the good news that most of the artworks of the 45 artists who participated were sold.
Julius said proceeds of the auction would be used in constructing new homes of Ondoy victims in Sitio Amparo in Caloocan.
“As much as possible we are planning to build another village. What GK needs is P3-M I think. We can raise that based on the amount we raised,” Julius said.
He lauded the artists and art collectors who participated in Art to Heart, which only proves they care for their fellow Filipinos’ plight.
“I’m very thankful to artists and art collectors because to invest in this kind of work, I am amazed at their humility and willingness to help people. Of course, they are doing well in auction houses abroad and getting so much appreciation in other countries. With this project, madali silang lapitan. It’s the artists’ way of giving back. Ganun din naman ang collectors. They felt now is the best time to give. They’re not only getting the best artworks but they’re also helping save lives,” said Julius.
“If you have so much money to spare, don’t think about the amount you spent. That amount will help a lot people. Aside from helping, they’re also getting good artworks,” he added.
Julius said the artworks would remind them of their compassion and generosity.
GK founder Tony Meloto agrees, saying the auction is commendable.
“What makes it really significant is the creative talents of the people, and the generosity of the art collectors combined to give new life to the victims of typhoon Ondoy,” said Meloto.
“The idea is to relocate the victims to safe homes and safe environment and where they will no longer be informal settlers,” Meloto added.
He said this time, the houses are sturdier and the good thing is, aside from giving them homes, they will also help in declogging the passageway of waters.
Meloto reiterated that it’s not just “building homes” but building the nation as well.
“They will be given houses that will withstand typhoons. This project will help our effort in the Philippine reconstruction group led by Manny Pangilinan to relocate 200,000 squatters in Metro Manila, not only affected by floods but which cause the flooding. They block the passage of the water to the spillways, so what we are seeing is the work of nation building, the work of every Filipino from the ordinary citizen from the ground and from top artists, contributing paintings and art collectors for encouraging local talent and for social artists like Julius and Tintin, for using their own popularity, credibility and love for art and channel this love for the people,” Meloto said.
Artist Igan D’Bayan said he is very proud to be a part of the project.
“When Julius told me he wanted me to be part of the Art 2 Heart auction-exhibition, I was so flattered. Well, I saw the names on the list — such as Ronald Ventura, Geraldine Javier, Wire Tuazon, and the former members of the legendary Salingpusa. (And it got me thinking I am not worthy to be on the list with those people.)”
“We all know them as provocative and innovative artists, and it is heartening to know that they also give a damn about the plight of typhoon victims. That just goes to show that artists do not live in so-called ivory towers. And what Julius is doing should be lauded. It takes heart and guts to do such an endeavor,” D’Bayan said.
For more news go to: SOURCE
================================================
Using God-given talents to help and improve lives is the heart and soul of being human. Giving new homes to the victims of Ondoy is also giving them new hope, and them experiencing the love of God.
I was a frustrated artist, but now I am a budding artist! =) When the time comes when my works are already considered artworks =), I would also offer my talent to help empower others. =)
MANILA, Philippines
- The country’s most prolific and innovative artists banded together to raise funds for the construction of the new homes of victims of typhoon Ondoy through Gawad Kalinga.
The artworks generated some P4-M plus in a live auction/exhibit titled Art to Heart put together by Julius Babao, wife Tin-Tin Bersola and friends.
At the auction, a painting titled Casta Diva by world-renowned provocative artist Geraldine Javier was sold for P 1-M.
The devastation wrought by Ondoy has deeply affected Julius and friends and he thought of doing something to alleviate their suffering, particularly help those who lost their homes.
One day, he and friends John Jaylo and Tina Fernandez talked about a project that will help the victims.
For Julius, giving them permanent aid, rather than a band-aid solution was the best way to help. What better way to give them permanent assistance but build their homes again, Julius said.
“We brainstormed and conceptualized and then we came out with Art to Heart,” said Julius.
“It’s an auction/exhibit because I feel that the best way we can contribute to the victims of typhoon Ondoy is by giving them houses through GK,” he said.
“We came up with a project, came up with art pieces and held live auction and it’s been very successful,” he added.
Julius said he didn’t expect the turnout of support for their project and feels very grateful to the magnanimity of the artists and the art collectors.
“The turnout is more than expected. We raised about P4-M, but that is not the final amount yet,” he said.
He also shared the good news that most of the artworks of the 45 artists who participated were sold.
Julius said proceeds of the auction would be used in constructing new homes of Ondoy victims in Sitio Amparo in Caloocan.
“As much as possible we are planning to build another village. What GK needs is P3-M I think. We can raise that based on the amount we raised,” Julius said.
He lauded the artists and art collectors who participated in Art to Heart, which only proves they care for their fellow Filipinos’ plight.
“I’m very thankful to artists and art collectors because to invest in this kind of work, I am amazed at their humility and willingness to help people. Of course, they are doing well in auction houses abroad and getting so much appreciation in other countries. With this project, madali silang lapitan. It’s the artists’ way of giving back. Ganun din naman ang collectors. They felt now is the best time to give. They’re not only getting the best artworks but they’re also helping save lives,” said Julius.
“If you have so much money to spare, don’t think about the amount you spent. That amount will help a lot people. Aside from helping, they’re also getting good artworks,” he added.
Julius said the artworks would remind them of their compassion and generosity.
GK founder Tony Meloto agrees, saying the auction is commendable.
“What makes it really significant is the creative talents of the people, and the generosity of the art collectors combined to give new life to the victims of typhoon Ondoy,” said Meloto.
“The idea is to relocate the victims to safe homes and safe environment and where they will no longer be informal settlers,” Meloto added.
He said this time, the houses are sturdier and the good thing is, aside from giving them homes, they will also help in declogging the passageway of waters.
Meloto reiterated that it’s not just “building homes” but building the nation as well.
“They will be given houses that will withstand typhoons. This project will help our effort in the Philippine reconstruction group led by Manny Pangilinan to relocate 200,000 squatters in Metro Manila, not only affected by floods but which cause the flooding. They block the passage of the water to the spillways, so what we are seeing is the work of nation building, the work of every Filipino from the ordinary citizen from the ground and from top artists, contributing paintings and art collectors for encouraging local talent and for social artists like Julius and Tintin, for using their own popularity, credibility and love for art and channel this love for the people,” Meloto said.
Artist Igan D’Bayan said he is very proud to be a part of the project.
“When Julius told me he wanted me to be part of the Art 2 Heart auction-exhibition, I was so flattered. Well, I saw the names on the list — such as Ronald Ventura, Geraldine Javier, Wire Tuazon, and the former members of the legendary Salingpusa. (And it got me thinking I am not worthy to be on the list with those people.)”
“We all know them as provocative and innovative artists, and it is heartening to know that they also give a damn about the plight of typhoon victims. That just goes to show that artists do not live in so-called ivory towers. And what Julius is doing should be lauded. It takes heart and guts to do such an endeavor,” D’Bayan said.
For more news go to: SOURCE
================================================
Using God-given talents to help and improve lives is the heart and soul of being human. Giving new homes to the victims of Ondoy is also giving them new hope, and them experiencing the love of God.
I was a frustrated artist, but now I am a budding artist! =) When the time comes when my works are already considered artworks =), I would also offer my talent to help empower others. =)
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Yoko Ono donates P2.5M to ‘Ondoy’ victims
by Nikka Corsino/KBK/RSJ, GMANews.TV
Yoko Ono sympathizes with victims of storm Ondoy (Ketsana) which devastated the Philippines in September 2009. Photo courtesy of Philippine Embassy in Japan
A statement from the Philippine Embassy in Japan said Ono visited the Philippine Embassy in Fujimi, Tokyo before Christmas to personally pledge the donation.
"[Ono] learned about the very severe and continuing conditions of the "Ondoy" victims and decided to take action. As a mother herself, she feels deep sympathy and love for suffering children," the statement read.
A total of 464 people were killed when Ondoy brought a record rainfall in Metro Manila and several nearby provinces on Sept. 26, 2009. Thousands were left homeless by the floods it caused.
Ono, an artist herself who belongs to an aristocratic family, grew up in the Fujimi manor that now houses the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo. The mansion was built by Ono’s uncle, who later sold it to the late President Jose P. Laurel.
After World War II, the Philippines bought the property from the Laurel family and is now called the "Jewel of the Philippines."
"The Fujimi residence is very close to my heart and I consider it my home sweet home in Japan. I am therefore very grateful to the Philippine government for maintaining the house in a good condition all these years," the statement quoted Ono as saying.
Ono and Lennon married in 1969 and collaborated on several projects. They have a son named Sean. John was shot dead Dec. 8, 1980 in New York by Mark David Chapman. - Nikka Corsino/KBK/RSJ, GMANews.TV
SOURCE
====================================
This is a very inspiring move by Yoko Ono. A mother's love for children.
Thank you so much.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Pagasa: RP should brace for long, hot summer
Agri sector to suffer, weather bureau warns
By Yolanda Sotelo-Fuertes
Inquirer Northern Luzon
DAGUPAN CITY, Pangasinan – After being pummeled by cyclones in 2009 Pangasinan and most parts of the country will experience a long, hot summer in 2010, according to an official of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).
Nathaniel Cruz, Pagasa weather services bureau head, said the cold weather being experienced in the country since December has not been as cold as it was in December 2008 because of the El Niño phenomenon (an abnormal dry spell).
The country has been experiencing the El Nino since September and might continue to feel it until June 2010, he said.
Cruz was in this city on Monday to brief the city council on Pagasa’s program on preparedness and mitigation for extreme weather conditions.
“It could be a long, hot summer. The rainy season may come late, maybe in the last week of May or first week of June, instead of April,” he said.
He said Pagasa has started linking with the Department of Agriculture to discuss mitigation measures as the country’s agriculture sector would be severely hit by the dry spell.
No typhoon is expected to enter the Philippines in the first half of 2010 because of the El Niño, according to Cruz. He added that there would be less typhoons in the second half of 2010.
About 20 typhoons entered the country every year in the past few years and “we are expecting less than that number this year,” Cruz said.
But he warned that the typhoons that would come would be just as strong and potentially devastating as those experienced in 2009.
“It does not mean that less typhoons mean weak ones. Some could be as strong as ‘Ondoy’ and ‘Pepeng,’” he said.
Tropical Storm “Ondoy” (international name: Ketsana) caused massive flooding in Metro Manila and Southern Tagalog in September while typhoon “Pepeng,” (international name: Parma) which entered the country thrice, eventually weakening into a tropical depression, flooded more than 30 towns and cities in Pangasinan in October.
“What is important is that we should always be ready long before the typhoon season is here. We should always be prepared because climate change may cause more terrible typhoons,” Cruz said.
He said people should learn about the impact of climate change, a phenomenon that would not only increase temperature but could cause severe typhoons and floods.
“From now on let’s keep in mind that what we have not experienced in the past, we can experience now. If during the past flooding, it was only the first floor of the house that can be flooded, it is possible that the second floor will be flooded when the next typhoons hit the country,” he said.
Cruz also asked Filipinos to do their share in using water wisely in preparation for the dry spell.
“For instance, those who wash clothes… should not throw away laundry water and use it for cleaning. Restaurants should not give water to customers unless they ask for it. We should also save on electricity,” he said.
SOURCE
===================================
I think I need to check our Air Conditioner unit as early as possible...plus double check all the electrical set-up to get ready for this long summer...
Of course, I agree that we must all use our resources efficiently, not only during dry season...Filipinos are creative. Almost all Filipinos (or majority of Filipinos) use tabo and timba (dipper and pail) in our restrooms. It's more efficient than using a shower head. Also, when flushing the bowl, using the laundry water in a pail may save a lot of clean water.
By Yolanda Sotelo-Fuertes
Inquirer Northern Luzon
DAGUPAN CITY, Pangasinan – After being pummeled by cyclones in 2009 Pangasinan and most parts of the country will experience a long, hot summer in 2010, according to an official of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).
Nathaniel Cruz, Pagasa weather services bureau head, said the cold weather being experienced in the country since December has not been as cold as it was in December 2008 because of the El Niño phenomenon (an abnormal dry spell).
The country has been experiencing the El Nino since September and might continue to feel it until June 2010, he said.
Cruz was in this city on Monday to brief the city council on Pagasa’s program on preparedness and mitigation for extreme weather conditions.
“It could be a long, hot summer. The rainy season may come late, maybe in the last week of May or first week of June, instead of April,” he said.
He said Pagasa has started linking with the Department of Agriculture to discuss mitigation measures as the country’s agriculture sector would be severely hit by the dry spell.
No typhoon is expected to enter the Philippines in the first half of 2010 because of the El Niño, according to Cruz. He added that there would be less typhoons in the second half of 2010.
About 20 typhoons entered the country every year in the past few years and “we are expecting less than that number this year,” Cruz said.
But he warned that the typhoons that would come would be just as strong and potentially devastating as those experienced in 2009.
“It does not mean that less typhoons mean weak ones. Some could be as strong as ‘Ondoy’ and ‘Pepeng,’” he said.
Tropical Storm “Ondoy” (international name: Ketsana) caused massive flooding in Metro Manila and Southern Tagalog in September while typhoon “Pepeng,” (international name: Parma) which entered the country thrice, eventually weakening into a tropical depression, flooded more than 30 towns and cities in Pangasinan in October.
“What is important is that we should always be ready long before the typhoon season is here. We should always be prepared because climate change may cause more terrible typhoons,” Cruz said.
He said people should learn about the impact of climate change, a phenomenon that would not only increase temperature but could cause severe typhoons and floods.
“From now on let’s keep in mind that what we have not experienced in the past, we can experience now. If during the past flooding, it was only the first floor of the house that can be flooded, it is possible that the second floor will be flooded when the next typhoons hit the country,” he said.
Cruz also asked Filipinos to do their share in using water wisely in preparation for the dry spell.
“For instance, those who wash clothes… should not throw away laundry water and use it for cleaning. Restaurants should not give water to customers unless they ask for it. We should also save on electricity,” he said.
SOURCE
===================================
I think I need to check our Air Conditioner unit as early as possible...plus double check all the electrical set-up to get ready for this long summer...
Of course, I agree that we must all use our resources efficiently, not only during dry season...Filipinos are creative. Almost all Filipinos (or majority of Filipinos) use tabo and timba (dipper and pail) in our restrooms. It's more efficient than using a shower head. Also, when flushing the bowl, using the laundry water in a pail may save a lot of clean water.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
BAGYONG ONDOY a.k.a. STORM KETSANA... "KANG YAWEH" (God alone)
featuring the song "KANG YAWEH" (Cebuano dialect)
by Gary Granada...
September 2009
Manila Philippines
Gary Granada is a public school tutor (University of the Philippines) of a masteral subject in Development Communications. He is a musician and his name is synonymous to musical excellence in Filipino music. Gary Granada's music awards are numerous.
To know ore about Gary Granada, click here (Gary Granada Profile) or visit Wow Celebrities!
I saw this video from kimphils
by Gary Granada...
September 2009
Manila Philippines
Gary Granada is a public school tutor (University of the Philippines) of a masteral subject in Development Communications. He is a musician and his name is synonymous to musical excellence in Filipino music. Gary Granada's music awards are numerous.
To know ore about Gary Granada, click here (Gary Granada Profile) or visit Wow Celebrities!
I saw this video from kimphils
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Ondoy victims to spend Christmas in covered court
By Edson C. Tandoc Jr.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA, Philippines -- Neighbors used to share food on a long table set up in the middle of the street as children joined various street games. That was how 32-year-old Jean Borromeo and her neighbors celebrated noche buena in Barangay Bagong Silangan in Quezon City.
Not this year. Not after Typhoon “Ondoy” swept away their houses.
Some 100 families, including Borromeo’s, are still awaiting relocation in a covered court in Bagong Silangan, which served as the evacuation center for families affected by Typhoon Ondoy more than two months ago.
It is likely they would spend Christmas there, according to Borromeo.
“We have no choice but to wait here,” she said.
The covered court is divided into several squares for each family, bounded by boxes and sacks filled with their things, like clothes they got from donors and stuff they managed to save or retrieve.
The families also hung blankets on the iron grills of the covered court, but these were not enough to protect the children from the cold.
Many families who stayed in the covered court have been relocated to Towerville in San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan. Those remaining are supposedly the last batch to be relocated, but houses in Towerville are not yet ready, according to Borromeo.
She and her husband Ronald, 33, could not leave the covered court, because just like other families, they have to wait there for the relocation.
Borromeo said she would rather be relocated to Bulacan than return to her house, adding that she has been getting nightmares of what happened.
Staying with her son and neighbors on the third floor of a neighbor’s house on that fateful day when Typhoon Ondoy struck, Borromeo said she saw other neighbors, even friends, drown in the flood.
She broke into tears as she said that she and her son were lucky to be alive.
Source
=========================
Let us continuously pray for those who have been victims of typhoon Ondoy (and Pepeng) as well. Aside from the tangible goods that they need, let's pray for their emotional and most of all spiritual needs.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA, Philippines -- Neighbors used to share food on a long table set up in the middle of the street as children joined various street games. That was how 32-year-old Jean Borromeo and her neighbors celebrated noche buena in Barangay Bagong Silangan in Quezon City.
Not this year. Not after Typhoon “Ondoy” swept away their houses.
Some 100 families, including Borromeo’s, are still awaiting relocation in a covered court in Bagong Silangan, which served as the evacuation center for families affected by Typhoon Ondoy more than two months ago.
It is likely they would spend Christmas there, according to Borromeo.
“We have no choice but to wait here,” she said.
The covered court is divided into several squares for each family, bounded by boxes and sacks filled with their things, like clothes they got from donors and stuff they managed to save or retrieve.
The families also hung blankets on the iron grills of the covered court, but these were not enough to protect the children from the cold.
Many families who stayed in the covered court have been relocated to Towerville in San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan. Those remaining are supposedly the last batch to be relocated, but houses in Towerville are not yet ready, according to Borromeo.
She and her husband Ronald, 33, could not leave the covered court, because just like other families, they have to wait there for the relocation.
Borromeo said she would rather be relocated to Bulacan than return to her house, adding that she has been getting nightmares of what happened.
Staying with her son and neighbors on the third floor of a neighbor’s house on that fateful day when Typhoon Ondoy struck, Borromeo said she saw other neighbors, even friends, drown in the flood.
She broke into tears as she said that she and her son were lucky to be alive.
Source
=========================
Let us continuously pray for those who have been victims of typhoon Ondoy (and Pepeng) as well. Aside from the tangible goods that they need, let's pray for their emotional and most of all spiritual needs.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Filipino who saved lives during storm among TIME's Top 10 heroes
SOPHIA REGINA M. DEDACE, GMANews.TV
A Filipino who sacrificed his life during the onslaught of tropical storm Ondoy (Ketsana) in September was named among TIME Magazine’s Top 10 heroes this year.
The international publication recognized the selflessness of 18-year-old Muelmar Magallanes, who braved raging currents, helping bring neighbors and relatives to safer ground when record rainfall submerged three-fourths of the Philippine capital.
“By the time the storm had unleashed its full fury, bringing the worst rains the region had seen in more than 40 years, Magallanes had changed the lives of dozens of family members and neighbors – and lost his own," TIME said on its Web site.
Barangay Bagong Silangan in Quezon City was among the worst-hit communities in the metropolis when Ondoy ravaged vast swaths in Luzon on September 26.
Magallanes, said to be a strong swimmer, rescued about 30 people but was unable to save himself.
While trying to save other neighbors, a wall collapsed on him and a television set fell on his head, killing him instantly.
Ondoy may have killed hundreds, displaced thousands of families, and destroyed thousands of homes.
But Magallanes and several other faceless heroes show that tragedy cannot dampen Filipinos’ resilience and bravery.
Just last month, CNN hailed Filipino Efren Peñaflorida for pioneering the mobile pushcart classrooms to bring education to impoverished children in Cavite, providing an alternative to gang wars prevalent in the communities. - RJAB, Jr./GMANews.TV
SOURCE
===================================
We honor Muelmar Magallanes and all other faceless heroes for all their bravery and selflessness in the midst of calamities.
A Filipino who sacrificed his life during the onslaught of tropical storm Ondoy (Ketsana) in September was named among TIME Magazine’s Top 10 heroes this year.
The international publication recognized the selflessness of 18-year-old Muelmar Magallanes, who braved raging currents, helping bring neighbors and relatives to safer ground when record rainfall submerged three-fourths of the Philippine capital.
“By the time the storm had unleashed its full fury, bringing the worst rains the region had seen in more than 40 years, Magallanes had changed the lives of dozens of family members and neighbors – and lost his own," TIME said on its Web site.
Barangay Bagong Silangan in Quezon City was among the worst-hit communities in the metropolis when Ondoy ravaged vast swaths in Luzon on September 26.
Magallanes, said to be a strong swimmer, rescued about 30 people but was unable to save himself.
While trying to save other neighbors, a wall collapsed on him and a television set fell on his head, killing him instantly.
Ondoy may have killed hundreds, displaced thousands of families, and destroyed thousands of homes.
But Magallanes and several other faceless heroes show that tragedy cannot dampen Filipinos’ resilience and bravery.
Just last month, CNN hailed Filipino Efren Peñaflorida for pioneering the mobile pushcart classrooms to bring education to impoverished children in Cavite, providing an alternative to gang wars prevalent in the communities. - RJAB, Jr./GMANews.TV
SOURCE
===================================
We honor Muelmar Magallanes and all other faceless heroes for all their bravery and selflessness in the midst of calamities.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Memorial plaque for 956 Ondoy-Pepeng dead unveiled in Australia
Some 956 Filipinos who died during the destructive cyclones Ondoy (Ketsana) and Pepeng (Parma) will be forever remembered in Australia after a memorial plaque for them was unveiled in New South Wales.
The plaque was unveiled at the Pinegrove Memorial Park in Minchinbury, New South Wales, according to a report from the Philippine Consulate General in Sydney.
According to the Philippines' Department of Foreign Affairs, the plaque is now a permanent marker in a section of the cemetery called the “Filipino Memorial of Christ the Risen Lord."
Philippine Consul General Eva Betita and Invocare General Manager Arman Mikaelian were present at the unveiling held during the solemn rituals concelebrated by the priests of the Filipino Chaplaincy of the Sydney Diocese and the Filipino Chaplaincy of the Parramatta Diocese.
Figures from the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) show at least 956 deaths in the wake of the two cyclones, including 492 from Pepeng and 464 from Ondoy.
As of November 15, the Filipino community in New South Wales had donated at least A$470,000 (P20.031 million) in assistance funds, as well as over 1,400 boxes of relief goods and 21 pallets of canned food products totaling over 26 metric tons, to the victims of the recent floods.
The Australian government gave A$3 million (P127.859 million) in relief assistance to the calamity victims. - JV/GMANews.TV
SOURCE
=================================================
Remembering those who died and helping those who survived are manifestations of love.
Also and most especially, we will always remember you people who have given your help and love, you are all Ondoy-Pepeng heroes!
The plaque was unveiled at the Pinegrove Memorial Park in Minchinbury, New South Wales, according to a report from the Philippine Consulate General in Sydney.
According to the Philippines' Department of Foreign Affairs, the plaque is now a permanent marker in a section of the cemetery called the “Filipino Memorial of Christ the Risen Lord."
Philippine Consul General Eva Betita and Invocare General Manager Arman Mikaelian were present at the unveiling held during the solemn rituals concelebrated by the priests of the Filipino Chaplaincy of the Sydney Diocese and the Filipino Chaplaincy of the Parramatta Diocese.
Figures from the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) show at least 956 deaths in the wake of the two cyclones, including 492 from Pepeng and 464 from Ondoy.
As of November 15, the Filipino community in New South Wales had donated at least A$470,000 (P20.031 million) in assistance funds, as well as over 1,400 boxes of relief goods and 21 pallets of canned food products totaling over 26 metric tons, to the victims of the recent floods.
The Australian government gave A$3 million (P127.859 million) in relief assistance to the calamity victims. - JV/GMANews.TV
SOURCE
=================================================
Remembering those who died and helping those who survived are manifestations of love.
Also and most especially, we will always remember you people who have given your help and love, you are all Ondoy-Pepeng heroes!
Thursday, December 3, 2009
8McDo Philippines on Relief Operations for Typhoon Ondoy Victims
Business
8McDo Philippines, through its charity arm Ronald McDonald House for Charities (RMHC) initiated relief operations for victims of Typhoon Ondoy. This typhoon has destroyed many homes, sources of living, infrastructures, leaving thousands of people homeless. RMHC provided food and finance for evacuation sites where victims take shelter.
MANILA PHILIPPINES – 8McDo or McDonald’s Philippines initiated relief operations for the victims of the most devastating floods in the country for decades. Typhoon Ondoy brought heavy amounts of rain, massively destroying properties, such as houses and infrastructures, and killing many people.
The Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) was among the first organizations to respond and take action for this calamity.
With the help from Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), RMHC distributed truckloads of bread and juices to different areas in Laguna, Pasig and Rizal, which were considered some of the most affected areas.
Mister Kenneth Yang, RMCH President, stated that Typhoon Ondoy brought overwhelming devastation. Thousands of Filipinos lost their homes, livelihood source, and even the lives of their loved ones. He added that “It is during these times of desolation where the Filipino spirit of unity, compassion and generosity should shine through.”
RMHC Global also donated 25,000USD (or 1.2 million pesos) to the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC). This is to further reach more affected areas and evacuation centers.
ABOUT RMHC: Ronald McDonald House Charities is the charity arm of McDonald’s. In America, it ranked as the second most popular charitable institution. In the Philippines, RMHC fights illiteracy through its Bright Minds Read program and has recently produced graduates. RMHC, together with 8McDo, focuses on the critical needs of children.
McDonald’s is the world’s leading quick service restaurant, serving affordable and quality food. In the Philippines McDonald’s offers delivery through 8McDo and also accepts delivery online through McDelivery.com.ph.
To read more, click here
=================================================
That's what you call paying it forward. Thank you so much McDo! =)
Many of the large-scale [and even micro-, small- and medium-scale] enterprises now are paying it forward. What I really admire are those enterprises that didn't even bother to broadcast that their company is giving help. They just want to help! Period! But don't get me wrong. There's nothing wrong about telling the world that your company is offering help. It may even inspire and trigger more companies to give help and love! I myself would tell the world if I have a company that is giving a helping hand to those in need. I would even advertise if the company decides to [always] give part of its earnings to charity in order to inspire others to do the same. So, [again] don't get me wrong, I just said I admire those who kept quiet and just continuously giving help.
8McDo Philippines, through its charity arm Ronald McDonald House for Charities (RMHC) initiated relief operations for victims of Typhoon Ondoy. This typhoon has destroyed many homes, sources of living, infrastructures, leaving thousands of people homeless. RMHC provided food and finance for evacuation sites where victims take shelter.
MANILA PHILIPPINES – 8McDo or McDonald’s Philippines initiated relief operations for the victims of the most devastating floods in the country for decades. Typhoon Ondoy brought heavy amounts of rain, massively destroying properties, such as houses and infrastructures, and killing many people.
The Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) was among the first organizations to respond and take action for this calamity.
With the help from Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), RMHC distributed truckloads of bread and juices to different areas in Laguna, Pasig and Rizal, which were considered some of the most affected areas.
Mister Kenneth Yang, RMCH President, stated that Typhoon Ondoy brought overwhelming devastation. Thousands of Filipinos lost their homes, livelihood source, and even the lives of their loved ones. He added that “It is during these times of desolation where the Filipino spirit of unity, compassion and generosity should shine through.”
RMHC Global also donated 25,000USD (or 1.2 million pesos) to the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC). This is to further reach more affected areas and evacuation centers.
ABOUT RMHC: Ronald McDonald House Charities is the charity arm of McDonald’s. In America, it ranked as the second most popular charitable institution. In the Philippines, RMHC fights illiteracy through its Bright Minds Read program and has recently produced graduates. RMHC, together with 8McDo, focuses on the critical needs of children.
McDonald’s is the world’s leading quick service restaurant, serving affordable and quality food. In the Philippines McDonald’s offers delivery through 8McDo and also accepts delivery online through McDelivery.com.ph.
To read more, click here
=================================================
That's what you call paying it forward. Thank you so much McDo! =)
Many of the large-scale [and even micro-, small- and medium-scale] enterprises now are paying it forward. What I really admire are those enterprises that didn't even bother to broadcast that their company is giving help. They just want to help! Period! But don't get me wrong. There's nothing wrong about telling the world that your company is offering help. It may even inspire and trigger more companies to give help and love! I myself would tell the world if I have a company that is giving a helping hand to those in need. I would even advertise if the company decides to [always] give part of its earnings to charity in order to inspire others to do the same. So, [again] don't get me wrong, I just said I admire those who kept quiet and just continuously giving help.
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