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LIST: LRT, MRT, PNR Christmas Holidays 2017, New Year schedule

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - The Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Metro Rail Transit (MRT) management have released adjusted train service schedule for December 24, 25, 31, 2017 (Christmas Holidays) and Jan 1, 2018 (New Year) operations.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL8Q9BU0h2X9ICP5Du40sIhz29i_HpR9P1ZMyxE9u_2kQ3OUFa0qQTlMTJBBndsfd7r3-IWYNaD-xKIDsHZO3sStAbj3aMsyIK2sUPAMZ192mdevq9D8Z-7Ky8KNucds7bPPRqja371mVf/s1600/mrt-3-christmas-schedule-2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="LRT, MRT, PNR Christmas Holidays 2017, New Year schedule" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="575" data-original-width="575" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL8Q9BU0h2X9ICP5Du40sIhz29i_HpR9P1ZMyxE9u_2kQ3OUFa0qQTlMTJBBndsfd7r3-IWYNaD-xKIDsHZO3sStAbj3aMsyIK2sUPAMZ192mdevq9D8Z-7Ky8KNucds7bPPRqja371mVf/s1600/mrt-3-christmas-schedule-2017.jpg" title="LRT, MRT, PNR Christmas Holidays 2017, New Year schedule" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: DOTC MRT3</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b>LRT-1 Schedule Christmas Holidays 2017</b><br /><br />LRT-1, the oldest mass transit system in Southeast Asia, will have shorter operations on December 24 and 31.<br /><br />It will begin its first trip from Roosevelt to Baclaran at 4:30 a.m., but  the last trip will be at 8 p.m on Christmas Eve.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />On New Year's eve, LRT1 operations will be from 4:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.<br /><br />December 24: 4:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.<br />December 25: 4:30 a.m. to 9:50 p.m.<br />December 30: 4:30 a.m. to 9:50 p.m.<br />December 31: 4:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.<br />January 1: 4:30 a.m. to 9:50 p.m.<br /><br />Normal operating schedule is from 4:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and 4:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on weekends and holidays.<br /><br /><b>LRT-2 Schedule Christmas Holidays 2017</b><br /><br />As announced on Twitter, LRT2 will also have shorter operating hours on December 24 and 31.<br /><br /><center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><div dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LRT2holidayschedule?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="nofollow">#LRT2holidayschedule</a> <a href="https://t.co/MJfqUkwzB0" rel="nofollow">pic.twitter.com/MJfqUkwzB0</a></div>— LRT2 (@OfficialLRTA) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialLRTA/status/943722047556825089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" rel="nofollow">December 21, 2017</a></blockquote><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></center><br />Westbound Santolan to Recto on December 24 will run from 4:30 a.m. to 8 p.m, while the eastbound Recto to Santolan will be from 4:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.<br /><br /><b>MRT Schedule Christmas Holidays 2017</b><br /><br />Due to the reduced volume of passengers, MRT will also limit its operations on December 24 to January 1.<br /><br />Here is the schedule of MRT-3 for the holidays:<br /><br />December 24: 4:45 a.m. to 8:26 p.m.<br />December 25: 6:30 a.m. to 9:50 p.m.<br />December 30: 4:45 a.m. to 9:50 p.m.<br />December 31: 4:45 a.m. to 8:26 p.m.<br />January 1: 6:30 a.m. to 9:50 p.m.<br /><br /><b>PNR Schedule</b><br /><br />Those looking for the Philippine National Railways (PNR) train schedule may refer to the timetable posted on their <a href="http://www.pnr.gov.ph/northbound-southbound-timetable" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>.<br /><br />As of press time, no announcement yet if there will be a deviation on the normal schedule.<br /><br /><b>MMDA Advisory</b><br /><br />The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced suspension of Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP) or Number Coding Scheme on December 26 (Tuesday) for PROVINCIAL BUSES ONLY.<br /><br /><b>RELATED BULLETIN</b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/12/list-bank-schedule-christmas-holidays-2017-new-year.html" rel="nofollow">LIST: Bank Schedule for Christmas Holidays 2017, New Year</a></li><li><a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/12/full-list-sm-mall-hours-schedule-christmas-holidays-2017-new-year.html" rel="nofollow">COMPLETE LIST: SM Mall Hours Schedule Christmas Holidays 2017, New Year</a></li></ul><br /><b>— The Summit Express</b></div>

LIST: LRT, MRT, PNR Christmas Holidays 2017, New Year schedule

MANILA, Philippines - The Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Metro Rail Transit (MRT) management have released adjusted train service schedule for...

LIST: Bank Schedule for Christmas Holidays 2017, New Year

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - The banking hours schedule for the 2017 Christmas holidays and operations for New Year (first week of January 2018) has been released online.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhokE6FN4dgWSm6MkhkGGsk4YnrQj_SvkW5LEy2JwXWUw9yKS7L87Ww4q0TgPQcspvZi1b8avCyXeXWZliAYUpoTiMbOA4TwlMF8gPgMuML_z93Vb_4RaJ0tM7VzJMjqsmn_-NjOJDgm9t0/s1600/bank-schedule-christmas-holidays-2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Bank Schedule for Christmas Holidays 2017, New Year" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="379" data-original-width="720" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhokE6FN4dgWSm6MkhkGGsk4YnrQj_SvkW5LEy2JwXWUw9yKS7L87Ww4q0TgPQcspvZi1b8avCyXeXWZliAYUpoTiMbOA4TwlMF8gPgMuML_z93Vb_4RaJ0tM7VzJMjqsmn_-NjOJDgm9t0/s1600/bank-schedule-christmas-holidays-2017.jpg" title="Bank Schedule for Christmas Holidays 2017, New Year" /></a></div><br />During the long holiday break, select bank branches will be open. Check out the updated list of banks and their schedule for December 24, 2017 to January 2, 2018.<br /><br /><b>RELATED BULLETIN</b><br /><a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/12/full-list-sm-mall-hours-schedule-christmas-holidays-2017-new-year.html" rel="nofollow">COMPLETE LIST: SM Mall Hours Schedule Christmas Holidays 2017, New Year</a><br /><b><br /></b> <b>Banco de Oro (BDO) Unibank Schedule</b><br /><br />Branches of BDO will open during the holidays to continuously serve the banking needs of their clients. Schedules from December 24, 2017 to January 2, 2018 are as follows:<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><ul><li>December 24 and 31, 2017 - Shortened banking hours of selected mall branches</li><li>December 25 and January 1, 2018 - All branches closed</li><li>December 26 to 29 and January 2, 2018 - Regular banking day</li><li>December 30 - Shortened banking hours of Saturday banking branches</li></ul><br />For the complete list of BDO branches open during this holiday season, please <b><a href="https://www.bdo.com.ph/advisory-december-24-30-31-2017" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">view here</a></b>.<br /><br />The banks electronic channels, meanwhile, are ready to handle transactions during this season.<br /><br /><b>Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) and BPI Family Savings Bank (BFSB) Schedule</b><br /><br />BPI and BFSB announced that it will extend branch operations during the holiday season. On weekdays until January 3, 2018, <a href="https://www.bpiexpressonline.com/media/uploads/5a26534dcd43a_BPI_Extended_Banking_Hours.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">119 BPI</a> and <a href="https://www.bpiexpressonline.com/media/uploads/5a26533db1295_BFB_Extended_Banking_Hours.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">49 BFSB</a> branches will have extended banking hours up to 6:00 pm.<br /><br />Meanwhile, here's the list of branches that would be open on December 26, 2017 and January 2, 2018.<br /><br /><b>Metrobank Holiday Schedule</b><br /><br />Majority of Metrobank branches will be closed on December 24, 30 to 31, 2017 but some of its branches will be open to serve the clients' banking needs.  Check out <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/notes/metrobank/holiday-advisory/1783928024960334/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">full holiday advisory here</a></b>.<br /><br /><b>Philippine Savings Bank (PSBank) Schedule</b><br /><br />All PSBank branches will be closed on Christmas Day but its clients may use other channels such as ATM and online transactions. <br /><br />All branches are also closed on weekends.<br /><br /><b>Security Bank Schedule</b><br /><br />Selected branches are ready to serve on December 24, 2017 (Sunday) and December 30, 2017 (Saturday).<br /><br />All Security Bank branches will be CLOSED on the following dates:<br /><br />December 25, 2017 (Monday)<br />December 31, 2017 (Sunday)<br />January 1, 2018 (Monday)<br /><br />All ATM or Point-of-Sale machines, as well as Internet Banking facility will still be available for client's banking transactions during these dates.<br /><br />Business as usual for all branches from December 26 to 29, 2017 (Tuesday to Friday).<br /><br />For the full list of branches and schedules, <b><a href="https://www.securitybank.com/about-us/banking-advisory/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out here</a></b>.<br /><br /><i>"Following the announcement regarding the nationwide suspension of work in Government offices, we would like to inform you that there will be no clearing and settlement of checks on December 26, 2017 and January 2, 2018. In this regard, we would like to remind you to fund all your check payments as early as December 22 and 29, as outward checks will be transmitted for processing on the next banking day."</i><br /><br /><b>Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) Schedule</b><br /><br />As advised, there will be no check clearing and settlement on December 26, 2017 and January 2, 2018.<br /><br /><b>Philippine National Bank (PNB) Schedule</b><br /><br />Please take note of the following branches open during the holiday:<br /><br />December 24, 2017 (Sunday)<br /><br />METRO MANILA<br /><br />6 AM - 6 PM<br />NAIA 1 - Arrival Area<br />NAIA 1 - Departure Area<br />NAIA 2 - Departure Area<br />NAIA 3 - Arrival Area<br /><br />9 AM - 4 PM<br />Q.C. - EDSA - Eton Centris<br /><br />VISAYAS<br /><br />9 AM - 1 PM<br />Boracay - Station 1 <br /><br />MINDANAO<br /><br />9:30 AM - 12 NN<br />General Santos - KCC Mall<br />Zamboanga - KCC Mall<br /><br />December 25, 2017 (Monday)<br /><br />METRO MANILA<br /><br />6 AM - 12 NN<br />NAIA 1 - Arrival Area<br />NAIA 1 - Departure Area<br />NAIA 2 - Departure Area<br />NAIA 3 - Arrival Area<br /><br />For immediate assistance, please call their 24/7 Customer Service Hotline at (+632) 573 8888. <br /><br /><b>Philippine Bank of Communications (PBCOM)</b><br /><br /><i>Updating for the schedule...</i><br /><br /><b>Chinabank </b><br /><br />Select Chinabank branches will open on December 30 and 31, 2017.<br /><div style="display: block; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 12px auto 6px auto;"><a href="https://www.scribd.com/document/367778927/Chinabank-2017-Holiday-Banking-Schedule#from_embed" rel="nofollow" style="text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank" title="View Chinabank 2017 Holiday Banking Schedule on Scribd">Chinabank 2017 Holiday Banking Schedule</a></div><iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="0.7729220222793488" data-auto-height="false" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_6968" scrolling="no" src="https://www.scribd.com/embeds/367778927/content?start_page=1&view_mode=scroll&access_key=key-Smp8ApsVdXTHVsGkR5tp&show_recommendations=true" title="Chinabank 2017 Holiday Banking Schedule" width="100%"></iframe><br /><br /><b>Maybank Holiday Branch Banking Schedule</b><br /><br />All branches will be closed on the following dates: December 23-26 and 30-January 2, 2018.<br /><br />Except for these branches, which are open to serve clients:<br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Main office (9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., December 23)</li><li>Resorts World Manila branch (until 7 a.m. of December 24, 2017)</li></ul><br /><i>Note: Clearing and settlement will resume on December 27, 2017 and January 3, 2018.</i><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaMDBsJkge4lZfIw7b9TbE6LmuZPISBTTs7pG1H3E1K6_q-0rTt2d2Qs6Y_Od7NbjBdUlHUqoUh_9Fkl8jVRSqbQCgmBn8hyphenhyphenlfjt5harWdyQxkY_AOKHhQH8QxnqAkU_TRHQYuAgzeoLJG/s1600/maybank-schedule-2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Maybank Christmas schedule 2017" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="910" data-original-width="765" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaMDBsJkge4lZfIw7b9TbE6LmuZPISBTTs7pG1H3E1K6_q-0rTt2d2Qs6Y_Od7NbjBdUlHUqoUh_9Fkl8jVRSqbQCgmBn8hyphenhyphenlfjt5harWdyQxkY_AOKHhQH8QxnqAkU_TRHQYuAgzeoLJG/s1600/maybank-schedule-2017.jpg" title="Maybank Christmas schedule 2017" /></a></div><i><br /></i> <b>UnionBank of the Philippines</b><br /><br />All branches will be closed on December 24 to 25, 30 to 31, 2017 and on January 1, 2018.<br /><br /><b>United Coconut Planters Bank</b><br /><br />All UCPB branches will be closed on the following dates: <br /><br />Monday, December 25, 2017<br />Monday, January 1, 2018<br /><br />UCPB would resume regular banking operations on:<br /><br />Tuesday to Friday, December 26 to 29, 2017<br />Tuesday, January 2, 2018<br /><br /><b>EastWest Bank</b><br /><br />All branches will be closed on Christmas Monday, December 25, 2017 and New Year’s Day.<br /><br />Weekend Banking stores would stay open to serve its clients on December 23- 24, 2017 and December 30-31, 2017.<br /><br /><b>Land Bank of the Philippines</b><br /><br />Some of Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) branches would continuously serve for its clients' banking needs on December 26, 2017 and January 2, 2018.<br /><br />Check out the list of branches and extension offices <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/notes/land-bank-of-the-philippines/landbankclientadvisory-open-branches-on-december-26-2017-and-january-2-2018/1383581328417837/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">open on the said dates here</a></b>.<br /><br /><b>— The Summit Express</b></div>

LIST: Bank Schedule for Christmas Holidays 2017, New Year

MANILA, Philippines - The banking hours schedule for the 2017 Christmas holidays and operations for New Year (first week of January 2018) ha...

PNP gives 8 Christmas safety tips

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - As the holidays are fast approaching, everyone is busy attending Christmas parties and buying gifts for their loved ones. During this time of festivities, we usually see increase in activities especially in the use of ATMs, online shopping, use of credit and debit cards as well as online banking.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEA_QUX-XpYNCkgFpy9hluMs4DFQFYyEr5GiDKUS6BcAF7kUp_2978o-k6LA4DbA-hJQei-Cz0KZYeu4pZxHgqwjaykJoH2ftcBHvylr5VdfpVMjUyG5uxpwMBktyLLOP6X-IcK4C_5Y8W/s1600/christmas+shoppers-philstar.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="PNP gives 8 Christmas safety tips" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEA_QUX-XpYNCkgFpy9hluMs4DFQFYyEr5GiDKUS6BcAF7kUp_2978o-k6LA4DbA-hJQei-Cz0KZYeu4pZxHgqwjaykJoH2ftcBHvylr5VdfpVMjUyG5uxpwMBktyLLOP6X-IcK4C_5Y8W/s1600/christmas+shoppers-philstar.jpg" title="PNP gives 8 Christmas safety tips" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Filipinos rush to commercial centers for Christmas shopping. Photo Credit: Philstar</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Thus, the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group encourages everyone to undertake the following safety measures to avoid becoming victims:<br /><br /><b>1. Be careful when using your ATM cards.</b><br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"></div><ul><li>Keep your eyes open. If you’re looking at an ATM and its PIN pad looks a bit loose, or see scratches or sticky residue, be wary as scammers will often attach false fronts to the ATM with tape.</li><li>Cover the PIN pad with your hand.  If there is a skimming device on the card reader, there will usually be a pinhole camera mounted underneath the top of the ATM.  As the card reader captures the account information, the pinhole cameras record the customers’ PIN.</li><li>When in doubt, don’t use the ATM. The only way to prevent your ATM card from being skimmed is to recognize that the machine has been tampered with. Best to just walk away from it. If it cannot be avoided immediately change your pin using a secure ATM, preferably one attached to a bank branch.</li></ul><br /><b>2. Always protect your user name and password.</b><br /><br /><b>3. When shopping online, only purchase from trusted websites.</b><br /><br /><b>4. Beware of phishing emails or text messages that are asking you for money, your user name or password. Avoid clicking on links in emails that you receive.</b><br /><br /><b>5. When banking with the use of online facilities.</b><br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Access your accounts from a secure location.  It is always good practice to access your accounts using computers and networks you know and trust.  However, when the need to access accounts from remote locations arise, check the address bar on your browser – the URL of the site you are on should begin with “https”.  This acts as confirmation that you are accessing your account using a secure connection.</li><li>Always logout when you are done. Logging out of your online banking session when you are finished lessens the chances of you falling prey to session exploits by cybercriminals.</li></ul><br /><b>6. When using your credit card, always be aware of where your credit card is to avoid skimming.</b><br /><br /><b>7. Make sure that you have up-to-date anti-virus software.</b><br /><br /><b>8. Only use legitimate and properly licensed software. Pirated software has been known to have malware.</b><br /><br />This advisory was the product of discussions of the PNP-ACG Advisory Council.<br /><br /><b>READ</b>: <a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/12/5-tricks-to-avoid-overspending-this-christmas-season.html" rel="nofollow">5 tricks to avoid overspending this Christmas season</a><br /><br />"We hope that you take the necessary precautions to protect your yourselves. Should you need assistance, we, at the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group, are ready to assist. You can reach us through telephone number 414-1560 and email address acg@pnp.gov.ph."<br /><br /><b>— The Summit Express</b></div>

PNP gives 8 Christmas safety tips

MANILA, Philippines - As the holidays are fast approaching, everyone is busy attending Christmas parties and buying gifts for their loved on...

'Bagyong Vinta' PAGASA weather update December 23, 2017

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - 'Bagyong Vinta' (international name: Tembin) has slightly intensified as it continues to track westward over the Sulu Sea, state weather bureau PAGASA announced in its 5:00 a.m. update on Saturday, December 23, 2017.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqhxe8ygUQXRhQ0Knn_K_-aJtFNdrnc2nJRSsaYZnEUinhmOgH2oH3DHn8zK3MyO9nvejw48bX8opomSu4PxqcX767dPYeoQG2tzxMFFk5FEHzB2WK8cRQR95NNB8PFe_rqGdZabaWNKH/s1600/bagyong-vinta-5am-1223.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="'Bagyong Vinta' PAGASA weather update December 23, 2017" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="693" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqhxe8ygUQXRhQ0Knn_K_-aJtFNdrnc2nJRSsaYZnEUinhmOgH2oH3DHn8zK3MyO9nvejw48bX8opomSu4PxqcX767dPYeoQG2tzxMFFk5FEHzB2WK8cRQR95NNB8PFe_rqGdZabaWNKH/s1600/bagyong-vinta-5am-1223.jpg" title="'Bagyong Vinta' PAGASA weather update December 23, 2017" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tropical Storm Vinta satellite image as of 5:00 am, December 23, 2017. Courtesy of DOST-PAGASA.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />At 4:00 a.m. today, the center of Tropical Storm Vinta was estimated based on all available data at 165 km Northwest of Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur (7.9°N, 121.0°E).<br /><br />'Bagyong Vinta' has maximum sustained winds of up to 75 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 90 kph. It is forecast to move West at 20 kph.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />Forecast Positions: <br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>24 Hour(Tomorrow morning, December 24): 275 km Southwest of Puerto Princesa City, Palawan (8.3°N, 116.7°E)</li><li>48 Hour(Monday morning, December 25): 390 km Southwest of Pagasa Island, Palawan (OUTSIDE PAR) (8.9°N, 111.3°E)</li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaDSXyGsEiUGyaxVl2wzw15xX7AEVqNKjM94xl23fOAenzgR3TbP-c7lTBqmBBi21CFbZJLX0E_K79rv9ITeCf_gBFYwbAXZiI2lqlX7exmN4UoKLaR0gJtFCurP77zKFzL5ydUmak9ovj/s1600/bagyong-vinta-5am-1223-track.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="track of tropical storm Vinta" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="741" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaDSXyGsEiUGyaxVl2wzw15xX7AEVqNKjM94xl23fOAenzgR3TbP-c7lTBqmBBi21CFbZJLX0E_K79rv9ITeCf_gBFYwbAXZiI2lqlX7exmN4UoKLaR0gJtFCurP77zKFzL5ydUmak9ovj/s1600/bagyong-vinta-5am-1223-track.jpg" title="track of tropical storm Vinta" /></a></div><br /><b>Tropical cyclone warning signal (TCWS) #2 (61-120 kph expected in 24 hours)</b> has been raised over Southern Palawan. Wave Height (Open Sea) is at 4.1-14.0 meters. Coastal flooding is possible.<br /><br /><b>TCWS#1 (30-60 kph expected in 36 hours)</b> has been hoisted over the rest of Palawan, Western section of Zamboanga del Norte, western section of Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga Sibugay.<br /><br />Scattered to widespread moderate to heavy rains will prevail over Palawan, while scattered light to moderate with at times heavy rains is expected over Bicol region, Visayas, Mindanao, and the rest of MIMAROPA within 24 hours. Residents of these areas must take appropriate actions against flooding and landslides, coordinate with their respective local disaster risk reduction and management offices, and continue monitoring for updates.<br /><br />Sea travel is risky over the seaboards of areas under TCWS, the southern seaboard of Mindoro provinces and the western seaboard of Aklan and Antique due to the Tropical Storm.<br /><br /><b>— The Summit Express</b></div>

'Bagyong Vinta' PAGASA weather update December 23, 2017

MANILA, Philippines - 'Bagyong Vinta' (international name: Tembin) has slightly intensified as it continues to track westward over t...

5 tricks to avoid overspending this Christmas season

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Christmas is almost here!  You might have just received your bonus this early, and now you’re just too excited to spend it on this and that, go on a shopping spree, or give gifts to your family, friends, or even to random people – sounds good, because you have a lot to spend so you won’t end up broke this season, right?  NOT.  The truth is, you can’t truly spend just enough without a plan.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEKcMj9q22YyB0MqMjABjPJi-KOYMv5Jkl9e3c9xMeZWF2QGMabJaVypO1WqcUZNjnuxuY8EYN8WpzQkTOqIFqQDxVjoiFvGFfhhZ9LdPCQZo70JukbuojaoD_XbDnCP5NaQelGrArMqnK/s1600/meme-christmas-overspending-1.gif" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="5 tricks to avoid overspending this Christmas season" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEKcMj9q22YyB0MqMjABjPJi-KOYMv5Jkl9e3c9xMeZWF2QGMabJaVypO1WqcUZNjnuxuY8EYN8WpzQkTOqIFqQDxVjoiFvGFfhhZ9LdPCQZo70JukbuojaoD_XbDnCP5NaQelGrArMqnK/s1600/meme-christmas-overspending-1.gif" title="5 tricks to avoid overspending this Christmas season" /></a></div><br /><br /><b>So, how do you plan it out?</b>  Perhaps you’ve been reading too many budgeting tips since the –ber months started, so you might have noticed by now what they have in common.  If you’re trying to come up with a Christmas spending strategy, but you’re flooded with the hundreds of advices that you don’t know what to follow anymore, go back to basics and keep it simple.  Make your funds work with you with these five straightforward tips.<br /><br /><b>1. Do your pre-Christmas cleanup.</b>  There’s more to it than just decluttering your closet.  Cleaning before Christmas will help you find the stuff you barely or never used—those that take up too much of your space.  Try selling them.  Or give them to friends or family members.  How about give them away as charity gifts?  You can also draw ideas from the things you’ll find: What do I have here?  What do I NOT have here?  What more do I need?<br /><br /><b>2. Make a list.</b>  We know there are too many gift ideas you’d like to try, but before you rush in to Christmas shopping without a battle plan, you might want to think twice.  Identify what’s worth your budget – if you already set a budget!  Making a list (and checking it twice) is a must when you’re playing Santa Claus for this season.  It will help you plan and keep track of your spending, and most importantly, help you avoid impulse buying.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br /><b>3. Check online. </b> Now that you know what you need, you might also aim for a cheaper version or an alternative.  From the many hours you spend on social media, try to take at least 30 minutes of it to research on the items you want to buy.  This will give you info about the product, or maybe if you know where to look, you’ll even find good deals.  So by the time you do the real shopping in a physical store, you’ll know the price range and specifications of your items.  This will save your precious time!<br /><br /><b>4. Take advantage of promos and discounts.</b>   You know the best thing about online research?  You get to discover more affordable options.  If you already set a spending limit to your Christmas shopping, then buying things on sale or availing of promos might just be good for you; with cheaper purchases or installment promos, you’ll get a chance to add more items to your list without exceeding that limit.  <br /><br /><b>5. Set your budget.  Stick to it.</b>  Have we mentioned this already? —Let us say it again: avoid impulse buying.  You’ve already tidied up your closet, made a list, checked online, so now you know what you’re going to buy when you visit the mall. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9EotNzvyHgni7WKu0965KL79R1UjZftZ5xgJYQ26e6dUUrV2wNftNY1O4YQ6BaTOEpUP7Gal87WZTnaAI5qgqUqb90M5FXPBmY1TEwQkxfmdmjgey9pSf3HoS8a5tSQTOiGbGr21TPGQ7/s1600/meme-christmas-overspending-shopping.gif" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Set your budget Christmas" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="333" data-original-width="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9EotNzvyHgni7WKu0965KL79R1UjZftZ5xgJYQ26e6dUUrV2wNftNY1O4YQ6BaTOEpUP7Gal87WZTnaAI5qgqUqb90M5FXPBmY1TEwQkxfmdmjgey9pSf3HoS8a5tSQTOiGbGr21TPGQ7/s1600/meme-christmas-overspending-shopping.gif" title="Set your budget Christmas" /></a></div><br />We know self-control is hard to practice when you find something that really appeals to you, but staying within your limits is crucial if you don’t want to overspend.  If you really can’t help it, remind yourself of #4.  And you’d be surprised – you may even get the product you want by paying through monthly installments that fit your budget.<br /><br /><b>Installments?  But I have no credit card!</b>  Don’t worry, we’ve got your back!  Home Credit lets you easily afford the things that matter to you.  Even without a credit card, you can pay for it through installments at 0% interest.  Through a simple, easy, and fast process, you can take home that item you want and still have a budget to spare.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLcvL6QchABBsxrQxSdxg0S8lqgXY-K7vC5BWmAz_iyJd4ZnIbO4FV-SIEo7gDUyOYJTcHAyHqItMG7EJJzjZgpgWPUcumezSk7hnFujfWKZFFClhHd6ttFtmvZPbC3KPJA2j9sr_JcpGd/s1600/meme-christmas-overspending-shopping-budget.gif" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Set your budget Christmas" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="259" data-original-width="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLcvL6QchABBsxrQxSdxg0S8lqgXY-K7vC5BWmAz_iyJd4ZnIbO4FV-SIEo7gDUyOYJTcHAyHqItMG7EJJzjZgpgWPUcumezSk7hnFujfWKZFFClhHd6ttFtmvZPbC3KPJA2j9sr_JcpGd/s1600/meme-christmas-overspending-shopping-budget.gif" title="Set your budget Christmas" /></a></div><br />Now if you succeeded with these tips, why don’t you reward yourself with that spare budget?  You deserve it!<br /><br />The tricks to avoid overspending take less effort and more diligence in staying inside your budget.  So if you already set a limit to your spending but can’t stop yourself from buying the things that interest you, check your available resources, make your list, and do your research – you might find good deals that are just waiting for you!<br /><br />For more info about Home Credit’s promos, loan applications, and store locations, visit www.homecredit.ph.<br /><br /><b>— The Summit Express</b></div>

5 tricks to avoid overspending this Christmas season

Christmas is almost here! You might have just received your bonus this early, and now you’re just too excited to spend it on this and that,...

'Bagyong Vinta' PAGASA latest weather update December 22, 2017

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - Severe tropical storm 'Vinta' (international name: Tembin) is now in the vicinity of Boston, Davao Oriental, state weather bureau PAGASA announced in its 5:00 a.m. update on Friday, December 22, 2017.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9YYeEBSEogW0kz3EbcrlV4p_c9jKKJgiXMdp6vknRAE0HrQde-eTAP5Wx8M6JzNXeo1VTK7i2mZDm-TOaSROvBNi4_uz4MAPWdxHl_ppiqroJ5TkmiYT2S3MCYYdCqfd4GdysBA_wN8d/s1600/bagyong-vinta-5am-update.gif" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Bagyong Vinta December 22, 2017 update" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9YYeEBSEogW0kz3EbcrlV4p_c9jKKJgiXMdp6vknRAE0HrQde-eTAP5Wx8M6JzNXeo1VTK7i2mZDm-TOaSROvBNi4_uz4MAPWdxHl_ppiqroJ5TkmiYT2S3MCYYdCqfd4GdysBA_wN8d/s1600/bagyong-vinta-5am-update.gif" title="Bagyong Vinta December 22, 2017 update" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Severe Tropical Storm Vinta satellite image courtesy of Himawari.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />'Bagyong Vinta' has made landfall in Cateel, Davao Oriental around 1:45 a.m. today, PAGASA said.<br /><br />At 4:00 a.m. today, the center of Severe Tropical Storm 'Vinta' was estimated based on all available data including Hinatuan Doppler Radar at in the vicinity of Boston, Davao Oriental (07.9 °N, 126.3 °E).<br /><br />'Vinta' has maximum sustained winds of 90 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 125 kph. It is forecast to move West at 20 kph.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />Forecast Positions: <br /><div style="text-align: left;"></div><ul><li>24 Hour(Tomorrow morning): 145 km West Southwest of Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte(8.2°N, 122.1°E)</li><li>48 Hour(Sunday morning):In the vicinity of Bataraza, Palawan(8.6°N, 117.5°E)</li><li>72 Hour(Monday morning, December 25): 295 km Southwest of Pagasa Island, Palawan (OUTSIDE PAR)(8.9°N, 112.5°E)</li></ul><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-jXyT8ZAIxPna6agEwvPRLabwkmF8R9y5voMUZAbkX-DTZ_-vwswReVdpZ2xhMMiBWhtJdIPPk-82xQhjFDbomFjuxLl9OCa99HaBb1ix7HqPLVCM5igo3UrFADovN6_CFVguzyhTH_Sa/s1600/bagyong-vinta-track-december-22-2017.png" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="track of Bagyong Vinta" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="741" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-jXyT8ZAIxPna6agEwvPRLabwkmF8R9y5voMUZAbkX-DTZ_-vwswReVdpZ2xhMMiBWhtJdIPPk-82xQhjFDbomFjuxLl9OCa99HaBb1ix7HqPLVCM5igo3UrFADovN6_CFVguzyhTH_Sa/s1600/bagyong-vinta-track-december-22-2017.png" title="track of Bagyong Vinta" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Severe Tropical Storm Vinta latest forecast, track. Image courtesy of DOST-PAGASA.</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><b>Tropical cyclone warning signal (TCWS) No. 2 (61-120 kph expected in 24 hrs)</b> is up over 16 areas: Siquijor and Southern Negros Oriental, Surigao del Norte including Siargao Islands, Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Northern Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte, Camiguin, Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Misamis Occidental, Eastern Zamboanga del Norte, and Eastern Zamboanga del Sur.<br /><br /><b>TCWS No. 1 (30-60kph expected in 36 hrs)</b> has been raised over 14 areas: Southern Leyte, southern portion of Leyte, Bohol, Southern Cebu, rest of Negros Oriental, and southern Negros Occidental, Dinagat Island, rest of Davao Oriental, Davao del Sur, North Cotabato, Maguindanao, rest of Zamboanga del Norte, rest of Zamboanga del Sur, and Zamboanga Sibugay.<br /><br />Scattered to widespread moderate to heavy rains will prevail over Visayas and Mindanao within 24 hours. Residents of these areas must make appropriate actions against flooding and landslides, coordinate with their respective local disaster risk reduction and management offices, and continue monitoring for updates.<br /><br />Sea travel remains risky over the seaboards of areas under TCWS.<br /><br /><b>— The Summit Express</b></div>

'Bagyong Vinta' PAGASA latest weather update December 22, 2017

MANILA, Philippines - Severe tropical storm 'Vinta' (international name: Tembin) is now in the vicinity of Boston, Davao Oriental, s...

'Bagyong Vinta' intensifies, Signal No. 2 up in 12 areas

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - 'Bagyong Vinta' (international name: Tembin) has intensified further as it threatens CARAGA area, state weather bureau PAGASA announced in its 5:00 p.m. update on Thursday, December 21, 2017.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlpf8BQXAJKCn4s9ksYP0igHYgy3hWGhQkxbEZw5-nbqhVoiCC6EjYB-UyvFfwkEMVM0XTtI0gI4aYHXlr9hCj3DMsZnh3VJe55hM60tH6WsC62UmTD2hg55l2OsPV1JZPQEVKolxeyosf/s1600/bagyong-vinta-satellite-image-december-21.JPG" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="'Bagyong Vinta' intensifies, Signal No. 2 up in 12 areas" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="516" data-original-width="864" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlpf8BQXAJKCn4s9ksYP0igHYgy3hWGhQkxbEZw5-nbqhVoiCC6EjYB-UyvFfwkEMVM0XTtI0gI4aYHXlr9hCj3DMsZnh3VJe55hM60tH6WsC62UmTD2hg55l2OsPV1JZPQEVKolxeyosf/s1600/bagyong-vinta-satellite-image-december-21.JPG" title="'Bagyong Vinta' intensifies, Signal No. 2 up in 12 areas" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tropical Storm Vinta satellite image as of 3:30 p.m. on December 21, 2017. Photo courtesy of DOST-PAGASA.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Tropical Storm Vinta is expected to make landfall over Surigao del Sur between late this evening and tomorrow early morning (22 December).<br /><br />At 4:00 p.m. today, the center of 'Bagyong Vinta' was estimated based on all available data including Hinatuan doppler radar at 200 km East of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur (08.1 °N, 128.1 °E).<br /><br />'Vinta' has maximum sustained winds of 80 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 110 kph. It is forecast to move West at 21 kph.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />Forecast Positions:<br /><div style="text-align: left;"></div><ul><li>24 Hour(Tomorrow afternoon): 75 km Northwest of El Salvador City, Misamis Oriental(8.8°N, 124.1°E)</li><li>48 Hour(Saturday afternoon):165 km South of Puerto Princesa City, Palawan(8.3°N, 119.0°E)</li><li>72 Hour(Sunday afternoon): 435 km West of Puerto Princesa City, Palawan (OUTSIDE PAR)(9.7°N, 114.8°E)</li><li>96 Hour(Monday afternoon):1,005 km West of Puerto Princesa City, Palawan (OUTSIDE PAR)(9.9°N, 109.6°E)</li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGf-9Cbkm9Wln7D4c43IIAWpAiaqoc4U8nsCpGqyPhGQtU195m9UWN0qjcbE8nCxk5W0MxWIFlsfY1Aij2jjQJ8UtpZfVn3RTFh0SQzGoGaINavVdyLgD_iuh08M69L1TpaFgSuk33-8mg/s1600/vinta-trach-christmas.JPG" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="track Vinta storm Christmas" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="821" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGf-9Cbkm9Wln7D4c43IIAWpAiaqoc4U8nsCpGqyPhGQtU195m9UWN0qjcbE8nCxk5W0MxWIFlsfY1Aij2jjQJ8UtpZfVn3RTFh0SQzGoGaINavVdyLgD_iuh08M69L1TpaFgSuk33-8mg/s1600/vinta-trach-christmas.JPG" title="track Vinta storm Christmas" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Tropical cyclone warning signal (TCWS) No. 2 (61-120kph expected in 24 hrs) is up in 12 areas: Surigao del Norte Incl. Siargao Islands, Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Northern Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte, Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, and Lanao del Sur.<br /><br />Signal No. 1 (30-60kph expected in 36 hrs) was raised over Southern Leyte, southern portion of Leyte, Southern Cebu, Siquijor, Bohol, Southern Negros Occidental and Southern Negros Oriental.<br /><br />Scattered to widespread moderate to heavy rains is expected over Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Caraga, Davao Region, Northern Mindanao, and Zamboanga Peninsula within 24 hours. <br /><br />Residents of these areas must make appropriate actions against possible flooding and landslides, coordinate with their respective local disaster risk reduction and management offices, and continue monitoring for updates.<br /><br />Sea travel is risky over the seaboards of areas under TCWS.<br /><br /><b>— The Summit Express</b></div>

'Bagyong Vinta' intensifies, Signal No. 2 up in 12 areas

MANILA, Philippines - 'Bagyong Vinta' (international name: Tembin) has intensified further as it threatens CARAGA area, state weathe...

'Bagyong Vinta' PAGASA weather update December 21, 2017

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - 'Bagyong Vinta' (international name: Tembin) has intensified into a tropical storm as it continues to track westward, state weather bureau PAGASA announced in its 5:00 a.m. update on Thursday, December 21, 2017.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaaEzeXsfafyGdhw8GjNERnVuWtV5a3Jcyz8gUWEBS9mYkydrc_XQuLpoXZf8UGoYKQLhRDa9K0EzwUsxM1xtOT2xam_CN-ng5hVcNNyX4hVpW4fUdTzvnB9-kg-gob7HLNknk-A87ueKH/s1600/bagyong-vinta-satellite-image.png" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="'Bagyong Vinta' PAGASA weather update December 21, 2017" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="693" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaaEzeXsfafyGdhw8GjNERnVuWtV5a3Jcyz8gUWEBS9mYkydrc_XQuLpoXZf8UGoYKQLhRDa9K0EzwUsxM1xtOT2xam_CN-ng5hVcNNyX4hVpW4fUdTzvnB9-kg-gob7HLNknk-A87ueKH/s1600/bagyong-vinta-satellite-image.png" title="'Bagyong Vinta' PAGASA weather update December 21, 2017" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tropical Storm Vinta satellite image as of 5:00 am on Thursday, December 21. Courtesy of DOST-PAGASA</td></tr></tbody></table><br />'Bagyong Vinta' is expected to make landfall over Caraga - Davao Region area between Thursday (December 21) evening and Friday (December 22) morning.<br /><br />At 4:00 a.m. today, the center of Tropical Storm Vinta was estimated based on all available data at 510 km East of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur (09.0 °N, 130.9 °E).<br /><br />'Vinta' has maximum sustained winds of 65 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 80 kph. It is forecast to move West at 18 kph.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />Forecast Positions: <br /><div style="text-align: left;"></div><ul><li>24 Hour(Tomorrow morning): 80 km Northeast of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur(8.8°N, 126.9°E)</li><li>48 Hour(Saturday morning):130 km West of Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte(8.8°N, 122.2°E)</li><li>72 Hour(Sunday morning): 110 km Southwest of Puerto Princesa City, Palawan(9.0°N, 118.1°E)</li><li>96 Hour(Monday morning):170 km South Southwest of Pagasa Island, Palawan (OUTSIDE PAR)(9.6°N, 113.5°E)</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwqanR6ZTDFSVMPss_xZu2XP0V8lAdyo7zUgiapnVFoW0oz_Q2Z2O5tcjuDJ_MsePNQ6T4JtiOi9kmROaH16UYbggiU5DV5Jlaxlapx6agp767xpHWvacKI1Hw_F4hl2vE8kLY9cKOCbrv/s1600/bagyong-vinta-track-christmas-day.png" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="track of Bagyong Vinta Christmas 2017" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="741" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwqanR6ZTDFSVMPss_xZu2XP0V8lAdyo7zUgiapnVFoW0oz_Q2Z2O5tcjuDJ_MsePNQ6T4JtiOi9kmROaH16UYbggiU5DV5Jlaxlapx6agp767xpHWvacKI1Hw_F4hl2vE8kLY9cKOCbrv/s1600/bagyong-vinta-track-christmas-day.png" title="track of Bagyong Vinta Christmas 2017" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Tropical cyclone warning signal (TCWS) No. 2 (61-120kph expected in 24 hrs) </b>was raised over Surigao del Sur.</div><br /><b>TCWS#1 (30-60kph expected in 36 hrs)</b> is up in these areas: Southern Leyte, Dinagat Island, Surigao del Norte, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Davao del Norte, Compostela Valley, Northern Davao Oriental, Northern Davao del Sur, North Cotabato, Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, and Camiguin.<br /><br />PAGASA said the possible inclusion of Bohol, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, and Maguindanao in areas under Signal No. 1 within 6 hours.<br /><br />Scattered to widespread moderate to heavy rains is expected over Eastern Visayas, Caraga and Davao Region within 24 hours.<br /><br />Residents of these areas must undertake precautionary measures, coordinate with their respective local disaster risk reduction and management offices, and continue monitoring for updates.<br /><br />Sea travel is risky over the eastern seaboard of Visayas and Mindanao due to the approaching Tropical Storm.<br /><br /><b>— The Summit Express</b></div>

'Bagyong Vinta' PAGASA weather update December 21, 2017

MANILA, Philippines - 'Bagyong Vinta' (international name: Tembin) has intensified into a tropical storm as it continues to track we...

Employees’ lower income tax, other tax reforms will take effect January 2018

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - December 19 marked the day when President Rodrigo Duterte signed into law the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) bill. After 20 years, TRAIN will replace the old system of income tax to make way for a “simpler and fairer” collection.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLHQU-rWL0alk7WRBvHZ7i3Us_JN2mUT-rhSID_pxB3rclt0Gqc59NacndRCIeqwFO_pTiiZ1GjaAnYGaHIF7lHGhqI-CihCkZukZkKz3lE5pALnCUtynGXO7B1UdanZWj6oLPe1Zu4zWD/s1600/duterte-clenched-fist.JPG" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The tax reform is Duterte’s “Christmas gift” to the Filipinos." border="0" class="img" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLHQU-rWL0alk7WRBvHZ7i3Us_JN2mUT-rhSID_pxB3rclt0Gqc59NacndRCIeqwFO_pTiiZ1GjaAnYGaHIF7lHGhqI-CihCkZukZkKz3lE5pALnCUtynGXO7B1UdanZWj6oLPe1Zu4zWD/s1600/duterte-clenched-fist.JPG" title="The tax reform is Duterte’s “Christmas gift” to the Filipinos." /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tax reform is Duterte’s “Christmas gift” to the Filipinos. Photo Courtesy: Facebook/Presidential Communications</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno confirmed that the law will immediately take effect in the first payout of January 2018. Diokno said, “This is the administrations biggest Christmas gift to the Filipino people as 99% of the taxpayers will benefit from the simpler, fairer, and more efficient tax [program].”<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />Under TRAIN, several reforms were made to make sure that low-income earners will pay nothing to minimal taxes while high-earners will pay more. Several products such as petroleum and beverages with artificial sweeteners are given higher excise levies. Taxes were also removed from some basic commodities.<br /><br /><b>Here are some of the reforms under TRAIN:</b><br /><br />Lower tax or tax-free<br /><div style="text-align: left;"></div><ul><li>Employees earning P250,000 or below annually are now exempted from paying income tax.</li><li>13th month pay and other bonuses amounting to P90,000 are also tax-free.</li><li>Basic goods such as milk, 3-in-1 coffee, 100% natural fruit and vegetable juices, meal replacement and medically indicated beverages are now tax-free</li><li>Beverages that uses coco sugar and stevia are also tax-free</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Increase in Tax</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><ul><li>Petroleum products such as LPG will now be taxed with P1 per kilo and will increase to P2 in 2019, P3 for 2020 and so on.</li><li>Diesel will also face a P2.50/liter tax increase in 2018, to P4.50 in 2019, P6 in 2020 and so on.</li><li>All gasoline fuel will now be taxed with P7/liter in 2018, P9 in 2019 and P10 in 2020.</li><li>For beverages with caloric and non-caloric sweeteners, they will be taxed with P6/liter</li><li>Beverages with high fructose corn syrups such as sodas and colas will pay P12/liter</li><li>Local and imported coals are also expected to be taxed more</li></ul><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The government expects that the loss from lowering income tax will only be offset by the increase in petroleum tax.</div><br /><b>— Sally, The Summit Express</b></div>

Employees’ lower income tax, other tax reforms will take effect January 2018

MANILA, Philippines - December 19 marked the day when President Rodrigo Duterte signed into law the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusio...

PSHS 2017 NCE results for AY 2018-2019 released

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Science High School System (PSHS) officially released on Tuesday, December 19, 2017, the results to include the full list of passers of the October 2017 National Competitive Examination (NCE) for academic year AY 2018-2019.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIs41q5o27t9i-yRM87pT3HPJ-v2KQVMDvzlhknlD3K1nNgiBksTNvsrOBIxe8C3VL93oFF0tyH7LoTFYwYB7prZob7d81Qc9YlG3PNphzXh6Sjz5gWEj5ekk3Lsgz3KsCZP8k0GQG1-us/s1600/2017-nce-results-pshs-2018-2019.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="PSHS 2017 NCE results for AY 2018-2019 released" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="377" data-original-width="718" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIs41q5o27t9i-yRM87pT3HPJ-v2KQVMDvzlhknlD3K1nNgiBksTNvsrOBIxe8C3VL93oFF0tyH7LoTFYwYB7prZob7d81Qc9YlG3PNphzXh6Sjz5gWEj5ekk3Lsgz3KsCZP8k0GQG1-us/s1600/2017-nce-results-pshs-2018-2019.jpg" title="PSHS 2017 NCE results for AY 2018-2019 released" /></a></div><br />The examination was conducted on October 21, 2017 in 134 testing centers nationwide.<br /><br />Fortunato dela Pena, the Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and Chair of the PSHS System Board of Trustees, announces the names of the successful qualifiers (PSHS) Search for Scholars for 2018.<br /><br />Of the 26,413 applicants, list of successful examinees who have hurdled the one-step screening has been announced through DOSTv livestream video on YouTube.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br /><b>See announcement of NCE results at 23:26 of DOSTv video.</b><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP5rigX_XGw3i5uwGg7y943zHXJAg_d1bXSTuWc9hwjFA_vryqeYhKfvNM6Kv2pnS67zpF1bwtqqHIgBP7U2samUI8T5eadGlGMtzcpjCFMdJshU4qyjLjIHzaLILmOuxI4FW7N53t3g_Y/s1600/nce-results.JPG" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="2017 NCE results" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="479" data-original-width="841" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP5rigX_XGw3i5uwGg7y943zHXJAg_d1bXSTuWc9hwjFA_vryqeYhKfvNM6Kv2pnS67zpF1bwtqqHIgBP7U2samUI8T5eadGlGMtzcpjCFMdJshU4qyjLjIHzaLILmOuxI4FW7N53t3g_Y/s1600/nce-results.JPG" title="2017 NCE results" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Screengrab of partial list of  NCE passers. See full list through livestream video below.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><center><div class="video-wrapper"><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" gesture="media" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1lWrPx3fBpE" width="100%"></iframe></div></center><br />'Pisay' advised the qualifiers to IMMEDIATELY contact the Registrar or the Campus Director of the campus where they are qualified to enroll, or visit the following websites: www.pshs.edu.ph or www.dost.gov.ph, for more information on early enrollment.<br /><br />Deadline for slot confirmation / reservation of principal qualifiers for Main Campus qualifiers, and on for regional campus qualifiers will be announced soon.<br /><br /><i>NOTE: Specific schedule of other enrolment activities shall be announced by the respective campuses.</i><br /><br />MAIN CAMPUS<br />Agham Road, Diliman, Quezon City<br />Tel. No.: (02) 924 0614<br /><br />CORDILLERA ADMINISTRATIVE REGION CAMPUS (CARC)<br />Purok 12, Lime Kiln, Irisan, Baguio City, 2600<br />Tel. No.: (074) 442 1100<br /><br />EASTERN VISAYAS CAMPUS (EVC)<br />Pawing, Palo, Leyte<br />Tel. Nos.: (053) 323 5616 / 323 5617<br /><br />CENTRAL MINDANAO CAMPUS (CMC)<br />Baloi, Lanao del Norte<br />Tel. Nos.: (063) 836 0098<br />Mobile No.: 0908 874 0593<br /><br />CARAGA REGION CAMPUS (CRC)<br />Ampayon, Butuan City<br />Tel. No.: (085) 341 0787<br /><br />ILOCOS REGION CAMPUS (IRC)<br />Poblacion, San Ildefonso, Ilocos Sur<br />Tel. Nos.: (077) 726 4190 / 726 4191<br /><br />CENTRAL LUZON CAMPUS (CLC)<br />Clark Freeport Zone, Angeles City, Pampanga<br />Tel. No.: (045) 499 0136<br /><br />CENTRAL VISAYAS CAMPUS (CVisC)<br />Talaytay, Argao, Cebu<br />Tel. Nos.: (032) 513 0962 / 485 8975<br /><br />SOUTHERN MINDANAO CAMPUS (SMC)<br />Sto.Niño, Tugbok District, Mintal, Davao City<br />Tel. No.: (082) 293 0002<br />Fax: (082) 293 0003<br /><br />CALABARZON CAMPUS<br />c/o Office of the Executive Director<br />Tel. No.: (02) 924 0639<br /><br />CAGAYAN VALLEY CAMPUS (CVC)<br />Brgy. Masoc, Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya<br />Mobile Nos.: 0905 260 4068 / 0906 566 4240<br /><br />BICOL REGION CAMPUS (BRC)<br />Tagontong, Goa, Camarines Sur<br />Tel. No.: (054) 453 2048<br /><br />WESTERN VISAYAS CAMPUS (WVC)<br />Brgy. Bito-on, Jaro District, Iloilo City<br />Tel. Nos.: (033) 329 5644 / 329 2011<br /><br />SOCCSKSARGEN REGION CAMPUS (SRC)<br />Paraiso, Koronadal City, South Cotabato<br />Mobile. Nos.: 0947 893 5964 / 0917 711 0279<br /><br />ZAMBOANGA PENINSULA CAMPUS<br />Dipolog City<br />c/o PSHSS Office of the Executive Director, Diliman, Quezon City<br />Tel. Nos.: (02) 926 5701 / 924 0639<br /><br />MIMAROPA CAMPUS<br />Odiongan, Romblon<br />c/o PSHSS Office of the Executive Director, Diliman, Quezon City<br />Tel. Nos.: (02) 926 5701 / 924 0639<br /><br /><b>Here's the complete list of passers for PSHS AY 2018-2019 (use Ctrl+F to search name):</b><br /><br /><b>2017 PSHS NCE Passers</b><br />NAME OF EXAMINEE|CAMPUS ELIGIBILITY |SCHOOL |DIVISION<br /><br />Passers list....updating<br /><br />The NCE is a scholastic aptitude test designed to measure Scientific Ability, Quantitative Ability, Abstract Reasoning and Verbal Aptitude of applicants, according to the Department of Science and Technology.<br /><br />PSHS is a service institute of DOST, offering free scholarships for high school students who will likely take up a Science career after graduation.<br /><br /><b>— The Summit Express</b></div>

PSHS 2017 NCE results for AY 2018-2019 released

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Science High School System (PSHS) officially released on Tuesday, December 19, 2017, the results to inc...

PHOTOS: ‘Urduja’ hits Boracay, roads closed and rampaging floods fill the island

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Tropical Storm Urduja had caused devastation in Visayas region few days before Christmas. This prompted Tacloban and Ormoc cities to declare state of calamity due to flooding. The popular tourist island of Boracay was also not spared with the rampaging floods and heavy rainstorms.<br /><br />On Facebook, a netizen named <a href="https://www.facebook.com/christinesandiego/posts/10154841235966529" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Christine San Diego</a> posted several photos of a heavily-flooded Boracay Island. The once beautiful beach paradise is barely recognizable with flood waters. <br /><br />San Diego lamented the devastating situation, “I'm pretty sure you all know where this is. The no.1 island in the world is a disaster zone. This could have been prevented but it's obvious no one really cares.”<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe7UW9IBfCzdEBZ1mJt24TzwLWCgduBWu1FXRu7556uJxvSwZ763dl0wy-gheN7YE2lYjt75ZcfJks0T60_BuTpHh6PlTJxB4wrYdgqz-0PIMAwo06s34ENArV3FqiyXv8cJ_64UUv70sg/s1600/boracay-flooded.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Boracay Island seems unrecognizable after Urduja hit Visayas over the weekend" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe7UW9IBfCzdEBZ1mJt24TzwLWCgduBWu1FXRu7556uJxvSwZ763dl0wy-gheN7YE2lYjt75ZcfJks0T60_BuTpHh6PlTJxB4wrYdgqz-0PIMAwo06s34ENArV3FqiyXv8cJ_64UUv70sg/s1600/boracay-flooded.jpg" title="Boracay Island seems unrecognizable after Urduja hit Visayas over the weekend" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boracay Island seems unrecognizable after Urduja hit Visayas over the weekend. Photo Courtesy: Facebook/Christine San Diego</td></tr></tbody></table><br />She added that this may not be the first typhoon they’ve experienced but sure is one of the strongest, “We have experienced stronger typhoons and survived many but this we have never seen before.”<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcyMxhmNaDRapV5qUVXIh7oB7AAIcY_izrq6V4lfbxFlDpAAJ7lV040pHCLZqIZB-asi-75caYXR7QSjAea0Z1Jr3l0-u_JpsdXBVSx9aQTw9bDvO3jaG9eFF1TQMFd7vZq5qiQXxtM2i6/s1600/boracay-flooded-URDUJA.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Boracay Island seems unrecognizable after Urduja hit Visayas over the weekend" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcyMxhmNaDRapV5qUVXIh7oB7AAIcY_izrq6V4lfbxFlDpAAJ7lV040pHCLZqIZB-asi-75caYXR7QSjAea0Z1Jr3l0-u_JpsdXBVSx9aQTw9bDvO3jaG9eFF1TQMFd7vZq5qiQXxtM2i6/s1600/boracay-flooded-URDUJA.jpg" title="Boracay Island seems unrecognizable after Urduja hit Visayas over the weekend" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boracay Island seems unrecognizable after Urduja hit Visayas over the weekend. Photo Courtesy: Facebook/Christine San Diego</td></tr></tbody></table><br />San Diego also shared several updates about the situation in the island. Unfortunately, almost 90% of roads in Boracay are flooded. Approximately, 1,200 passengers are stranded in Cagban Port while 872 are stranded in Caticlan Port. There was even a report of a landslide in Brgy. Dumlog.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSKZ7QNj9T-NrM6We9kK8NTzjw-OK1KbTJhvyvCwNPK3B6bPE3ocwl7qAnVs-yP4UH0zeEUmj6WcPhdiAtC2rLzx_3KpSZm5rhkojcvelxDE_igt8lX4U9y66pozbfsJKDMKBqOJ-ybKzd/s1600/boracay-flooded-URDUJA-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The beautiful island in flood waters" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="540" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSKZ7QNj9T-NrM6We9kK8NTzjw-OK1KbTJhvyvCwNPK3B6bPE3ocwl7qAnVs-yP4UH0zeEUmj6WcPhdiAtC2rLzx_3KpSZm5rhkojcvelxDE_igt8lX4U9y66pozbfsJKDMKBqOJ-ybKzd/s1600/boracay-flooded-URDUJA-2.jpg" title="The beautiful island in flood waters" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beautiful island in flood waters. Photo Courtesy: Facebook/Christine San Diego</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyh7aAWpBXuCrXk1K88ZNgPAf1IjcGwmxuuAyeWbqynzI-XKOx2E7hVvsf3OA5D1BfM0_8n4KAL7iXqywX7WnTObl6lLUjRO2RnMDr0kKdbTK5uQ5TgjEWbupzK8kKNuHoGYREnDjcTuu1/s1600/boracay-flooded-URDUJA-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The beautiful island in flood waters" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="528" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyh7aAWpBXuCrXk1K88ZNgPAf1IjcGwmxuuAyeWbqynzI-XKOx2E7hVvsf3OA5D1BfM0_8n4KAL7iXqywX7WnTObl6lLUjRO2RnMDr0kKdbTK5uQ5TgjEWbupzK8kKNuHoGYREnDjcTuu1/s1600/boracay-flooded-URDUJA-3.jpg" title="The beautiful island in flood waters" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beautiful island in flood waters. Photo Courtesy: Facebook/Christine San Diego</td></tr></tbody></table><br />President Duterte already expressed his dismay over the devastation in Eastern Visayas. He confirmed that he will be visiting the affected areas so they can assess the situation and give the right support. The President said, “I have to fly to the places where the typhoon passed through. There’s so much destruction there.”<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsgrRpfxjvCbFJRsD9AwmW6P7cbSzkgPUOo2VvPMz1OnsI-B0kgBCeCD6YnQYk7Qc3_YV1oeJcSV7yZUerBDasw6rmCLmFzPD0gHRrTXpwA6t_GEAFQDLJ4mlBBOOiBf8WDNkxKgGSIiUi/s1600/boracay-flooded-2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="90% of the roads are affected" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsgrRpfxjvCbFJRsD9AwmW6P7cbSzkgPUOo2VvPMz1OnsI-B0kgBCeCD6YnQYk7Qc3_YV1oeJcSV7yZUerBDasw6rmCLmFzPD0gHRrTXpwA6t_GEAFQDLJ4mlBBOOiBf8WDNkxKgGSIiUi/s1600/boracay-flooded-2017.jpg" title="90% of the roads are affected" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approximately 90% of the roads are affected. Photo Courtesy: Facebook/Christine San Diego</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b>— Sally, The Summit Express</b></div>

PHOTOS: ‘Urduja’ hits Boracay, roads closed and rampaging floods fill the island

Tropical Storm Urduja had caused devastation in Visayas region few days before Christmas. This prompted Tacloban and Ormoc cities to declare...

NATIONWIDE LIST: SM Mall Hours Schedule Christmas Holidays 2017, New Year

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - The country's largest chain of shopping malls SM Supermalls has released the 2017 Christmas Holidays and New Year 2018 mall hours schedule for Metro Manila and provincial malls.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg93CDkUwojoquILh8x4oKvBZDLgCmbZmMKcR0xIFzs3ZLNRA3KtWDShyphenhyphenvaZ0XTtjlrpvcmztAwlNm6aWq97M13s3JFvcQ5CYEZQuFgkoKhlfBSaRvj1wdzotkBm-1sNHBx1sGfX28JgPd_/s1600/sm-mall-schedule-chistmas-2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="SM Mall Hours Schedule Christmas Holidays 2017, New Year" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="421" data-original-width="780" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg93CDkUwojoquILh8x4oKvBZDLgCmbZmMKcR0xIFzs3ZLNRA3KtWDShyphenhyphenvaZ0XTtjlrpvcmztAwlNm6aWq97M13s3JFvcQ5CYEZQuFgkoKhlfBSaRvj1wdzotkBm-1sNHBx1sGfX28JgPd_/s1600/sm-mall-schedule-chistmas-2017.jpg" title="SM Mall Hours Schedule Christmas Holidays 2017, New Year" /></a></div><br />SM announced the schedule per branch through its official website. Majority of the shopping malls will open at 9:00 a.m. on December 24 and 31 and will cut short its operating hours until 7:00 p.m. for Christmas Day (December 25) and New Year celebration.<br /><br />On December 25, majority of SM malls in Metro Manila and provincial areas will open at 11:00 a.m. and will close at 10 or 11:00 p.m. (extended mall hours for Christmas).<br /><br />SM Mall schedule is in accordance with the agreement with Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to help ease traffic congestion during the Yuletide season.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br /><b>Here's the nationwide SM Christmas 2017 Mall Schedule, Hours, Opening and Closing <i>(updating for the list):</i></b><br /><br /><b>METRO MANILA</b><br /><br /><b>SM By The Bay</b><br />Monday - Thursday: 4:00 PM - 12:00 MN<br />Friday - Saturday: 4:00 PM - 2:00 AM<br />Sunday: 4:00 PM - 12:00 MN<br /><br /><b>SM Aura Premier</b><br />December 17 and 23: 10:00 am to 12:00 am<br />December 18-22: 11:00 am to 12:00 am<br />December 24 and 31: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm<br />December 25: 11:00 am to 11:00 pm<br />December 26-29: 11:00 am to 11:00 pm<br />December 30: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm<br />January 1, 2018: 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm<br /><br /><b>SM Megamall</b><br />December 17-23: 11:00 am to 12:00 am<br />December 24 and 31: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm<br />December 25: 11:00 am to 11:00 pm<br />December 26-30: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm<br />January 1, 2018: 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm<br /><br /><b>SM North EDSA</b><br />December 17-23: 11:00 am to 12:00 am<br />December 24 and 31: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm<br />December 25-30: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm<br />January 1, 2018: 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm<br /><br /><b>SM Mall of Asia</b><br />December 17 and 23: 10:00 am to 12:00 am<br />December 18-22: 11:00 am to 12:00 am<br />December 24 and 31: 9:00 am to 8:00 pm<br />December 25-30: 10:00 am to 11:00 am<br />January 1, 2018: 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm<br /><br /><i>NOTE: SM MOA Entertainment Mall dining tenants shall be open from 9:00 am to 1:00 am on December 31 due to the year-end countdown.</i><br /><br /><b>SM Center Las Pinas</b><br />December 17 and 23: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />December 18-22: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />December 24 and 31: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm<br />December 25: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />December 26-29: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />December 30: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />January 1, 2018: 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm<br /><br /><b>SM Center Muntinlupa</b><br />December 17-23: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />December 24 and 31: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm<br />December 25: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />December 26-30: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />January 1, 2018: 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm<br /><br /><b>SM Center Pasig</b><br />December 17 and 23: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm<br />December 24 and 31: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm<br />December 18-22: 11:00 am to 11:00 pm<br />December 25: 12:00pm to 11:00pm<br />December 26-29: 11:00 am to 11:00 pm<br />December 30: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm<br />January 1, 2018: 12:00pm to 11:00pm<br /><br /><b>SM Center Sangandaan</b><br />December 17-23: 10:00 am to 9:00 pm<br />December 24 and 31: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm<br />December 25: 10:00 am to 9:00 pm<br />December 26-30: 10:00 am to 9:00 pm<br />January 1, 2018: 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm<br /><br /><b>NORTH LUZON</b><br /><br /><b>SM Baguio</b><br />December 17-21: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />December 22-23: 10:00 am to 12:00 am<br />December 24 and 31: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm<br />December 25-30: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />January 1, 2018: 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm<br /><br /><b>SM Pampanga</b><br />December 17-21: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />December 22-23: 10:00 am to 12:00 am<br />December 24 and 31: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm<br />December 25-30: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />January 1, 2018: 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm<br /><br /><b>SOUTH LUZON</b><br /><br /><b>SM Center Angono</b><br />December 17-23, 25-30: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />December 24 and 31: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm<br />January 1, 2018: 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm<br /><br /><b>SM Center Molino</b><br />December 17-23: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />December 24 and 31: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm<br />December 25: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />December 26-30: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />January 1, 2018: 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm<br /><br /><b>SM Calamba</b><br />December 17-21: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />December 22-23: 10:00 am to 12:00 am<br />December 24 and 31: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm<br />December 25: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />December 26-30: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />January 1, 2018: 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm<br /><br /><b>SM City Sta. Rosa</b><br />December 17-21: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />December 22-23: 10:00 am to 12:00 am<br />December 24 and 31: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm<br />December 25-30: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />January 1, 2018: 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm<br /><br /><b>VISAYAS</b><br /><br /><b>SM Seaside City</b><br />December 17-21: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />December 22-23: 10:00 am to 12:00 am<br />December 24 and 31: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm<br />December 25-30: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />January 1, 2018: 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm<br /><br /><b>SM City Cebu</b><br />December 17-21: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />December 22-23: 10:00 am to 12:00 am<br />December 24 and 31: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm<br />December 25-30: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />January 1, 2018: 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm<br /><br /><b>MINDANAO</b><br /><br /><b>SM CDO Downtown</b><br />Monday - Sunday: 9:00 am - 10:00 pm<br /><br /><b>SM Lanang Premier</b><br />December 17-21: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />December 22-23: 10:00 am to 12:00 am<br />December 24 and 31: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm<br />December 25-30: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm<br />January 1, 2018: 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm<br /><br />SM currently has 67 malls located across the country. Once schedule for other branches are available, it will be added in the list above.<br /><br /><b>— The Summit Express</b></div>

NATIONWIDE LIST: SM Mall Hours Schedule Christmas Holidays 2017, New Year

MANILA, Philippines - The country's largest chain of shopping malls SM Supermalls has released the 2017 Christmas Holidays and New Year ...

Philippines in 2017: The Year in Review

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">MANILA, Philippines - The year is almost over and Filipinos have witnessed events and stories that affected the country and shaped 2017.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn45pvuJFsB6L9vfSIo7CR0rajpIyeLYJFN7hjn6_YBLDCHjsMtQoCB39nfwGxfcQUHvhheuTnvYeV6_V9fjp14-AS-cbGAf3ytHSLaBDtSt8RwPgPhOJGq1YJe8KyHAAflpWWB3yKJEkS/s1600/top-stories-2017-philippines.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Top Stories Philippines 2017" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="380" data-original-width="759" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn45pvuJFsB6L9vfSIo7CR0rajpIyeLYJFN7hjn6_YBLDCHjsMtQoCB39nfwGxfcQUHvhheuTnvYeV6_V9fjp14-AS-cbGAf3ytHSLaBDtSt8RwPgPhOJGq1YJe8KyHAAflpWWB3yKJEkS/s1600/top-stories-2017-philippines.jpg" title="Top Stories Philippines 2017" /></a></div><br />Take a look as The Summit Express made a lowdown of the top 10 stories that made headlines this year (in chronological order):<br /><br /><b>1. <a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/01/list-of-winners-miss-universe-2016-coronation-day-live-updates.html" rel="nofollow">The 65th Miss Universe Pageant held in the Mall of Asia Arena, Manila</a> (JANUARY 2017)</b><br /><br />In a memorable event in the pageant community, the Philippines became the venue of the 65th Miss Universe pageant. It is the third time that the country hosted the event.<br /><br />On January 30, the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay, Manila lit up for a night of glitz and glamour. Beauty queens all over the world gathered to witness the crowning of a new Miss Universe queen.<br /><br />Our very own Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach passed the crown to the new Miss Universe Iris Mittenaere of France. It had been 63 years since France won in the competition.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06MC-knxBGbY2S6szO-3kFWBamxs-4gIEPUQTySYJ73F267Cbl_fvrRsV518Xt_xU4S2nX-yNuTxoTDooSe98AOgNHXrNdY988UKuP_Msul79qOFjAL3kBT7OS9xwfjmk8DNk4yf2xHth/s1600/pia-passed-miss-universe-crown.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach passed the crown to Miss France Iris Mittenaere." border="0" class="img" data-original-height="313" data-original-width="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06MC-knxBGbY2S6szO-3kFWBamxs-4gIEPUQTySYJ73F267Cbl_fvrRsV518Xt_xU4S2nX-yNuTxoTDooSe98AOgNHXrNdY988UKuP_Msul79qOFjAL3kBT7OS9xwfjmk8DNk4yf2xHth/s1600/pia-passed-miss-universe-crown.jpg" title="Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach passed the crown to Miss France Iris Mittenaere." /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach passed the crown to Miss France Iris Mittenaere. Photo Courtesy: Miss Universe</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The Philippine bet Maxine Medina had wowed the judges and had the loudest cheers from the crowd. Medina placed in the top 6.<br /><div id="unruly-unit"></div><br />The presenters were Steve Harvey and Ashley Graham. Harvey took the time to make jokes about his last fiasco with our Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwDMGi8149vPqx3s2Ay1AjqwxpgDnfBf8bnKwKzdekrUtAXx7XNnbVlKGaBRZ45ed-qKWUAq9_bnr1qf8PHb8NKn7i-BBLXRjxXtjcrXEbKCiM_nMKOYaeCk9SGgYBRjEDo-MZPr9Umvv_/s1600/maxine-medina-philstar-photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Philippine bet Maxine Medina placed Top 6 Miss Universe" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwDMGi8149vPqx3s2Ay1AjqwxpgDnfBf8bnKwKzdekrUtAXx7XNnbVlKGaBRZ45ed-qKWUAq9_bnr1qf8PHb8NKn7i-BBLXRjxXtjcrXEbKCiM_nMKOYaeCk9SGgYBRjEDo-MZPr9Umvv_/s1600/maxine-medina-philstar-photo.JPG" title="Philippine bet Maxine Medina placed Top 6 Miss Universe" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Philippine bet Maxine Medina placed Top 6. Photo Courtesy: Philstar</td></tr></tbody></table><br />You can watch the announcement of the 2016 Miss Universe Iris Mittenaere,<br /><br /><center><div class="video-wrapper"><div style="height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.21%; position: relative;"><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" gesture="media" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4dLlVcrJiFE?ecver=2" style="height: 100%; left: 0; position: absolute; width: 100%;" width="100%"></iframe></div></div></center><br /><b>2. <a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/02/rtc-orders-arrest-of-sen-de-lima-lp-senators-react.html" rel="nofollow">Arrest of Senator Leila de Lima</a> (FEBRUARY 2017)</b><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinmvqTc7PF-xG901tCwkP1TpuBQEvP9mvQns6wHRqc_N0MjUhqQe0KxuLYqSSjrjLG61mhIB7yZsDC6QmdIxgBjIJ6PdSvEPmMNjlnNzIATDlfTju0jh7NlReSm6U4bidZI2jptNSIBdpn/s1600/delima-arrest.jpeg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Senator De Lima was allegedly receiving money from drug lords." border="0" class="img" data-original-height="329" data-original-width="447" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinmvqTc7PF-xG901tCwkP1TpuBQEvP9mvQns6wHRqc_N0MjUhqQe0KxuLYqSSjrjLG61mhIB7yZsDC6QmdIxgBjIJ6PdSvEPmMNjlnNzIATDlfTju0jh7NlReSm6U4bidZI2jptNSIBdpn/s1600/delima-arrest.jpeg" title="Senator De Lima was allegedly receiving money from drug lords." /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Senator De Lima was allegedly receiving money from drug lords. Photo Courtesy: Inquirer</td></tr></tbody></table><br />A staunch critic of President Duterte, Senator Leila de Lima was allegedly involved in illegal drugs. The senator was allegedly connected and received “protection money” from drug lords in the New Bilibid Prison. It took 5 months of investigation and witnesses including her alleged lover/driver, Ronnie Dayan that eventually led to her arrest.<br /><br />It was on February 17, that the court charged De Lima in violation of Section 5 of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, which penalizes the "sale, trading, administration, dispensation, delivery, distribution and transportation of illegal drugs."<br /><br />De Lima vehemently denied the allegations. The senator claimed that the President is out to get her for her previous call to investigate on extrajudicial killings in Davao City when Duterte was a mayor.<br /><br />Charges were dropped against Bilibid "drug lords” Herbert Colanggo, Engelbert Durano, Vicente Sy, Jojo Baligad, and Peter Co after testifying against De Lima. The Liberal Party called this unacceptable and claimed their testimonies were only made under duress. <br /><br />On February 24, Senator De Lima surrendered to the PNP for her arrest. She made a strong statement that the allegations were lies and she has faith in God. She said, “It's my honor to be jailed for the principles I am fighting for.”<br /><br />Here’s the presscon that Senator De Lima held just before she was arrested:<br /><br /><center><div class="video-wrapper"><div style="height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.21%; position: relative;"><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" gesture="media" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/I6xPmJLKNb0?ecver=2" style="height: 100%; left: 0; position: absolute; width: 100%;" width="100%"></iframe></div></div></center><br /><b>3. 30th and 31st ASEAN Summits held in Manila (APRIL AND NOVEMBER 2017)</b><br /><br />On April 28-29 and November 10-14, 2017, the 30th and 31st ASEAN Summits were held in the Philippines.<br /><br />The Association of Southeast Asian Nations member states pledged to “promote accountability and transparency in civil service in the region and it is agreed that relevant civil service bodies of each member state will cooperate through the ASEAN Cooperation on Civil Service Matters (ACCSM).”<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSSDbVhseRWyiN4FBDc0BYWcIwviJZwrvog9MyeAaHFpGkK-IEpCKJuoMDSX1tS8frLp6-Snl6ErOLzWgyx1SIta7MZwmoI7aJM46jmoXMyzBO5ynJMSX1N66KRW0vO1ot7UG8_1_-PaAk/s1600/asean-summit.JPG" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The ASEAN Summit promotes cooperation in the region." border="0" class="img" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSSDbVhseRWyiN4FBDc0BYWcIwviJZwrvog9MyeAaHFpGkK-IEpCKJuoMDSX1tS8frLp6-Snl6ErOLzWgyx1SIta7MZwmoI7aJM46jmoXMyzBO5ynJMSX1N66KRW0vO1ot7UG8_1_-PaAk/s1600/asean-summit.JPG" title="The ASEAN Summit promotes cooperation in the region." /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ASEAN Summit promotes cooperation in the region. Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The ASEAN member states include Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. All leaders of the member states attended the summits except for Myanmar which was attended by state councillor, Aung San Suu Kyi.<br /><br />Several world leaders also joined in cooperation and friendly dialogue including were United States President Donald Trump, China Premier Li Keqiang, Russia Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, European Union President Donald Tusk, United Nations Secretary General António Guterres, Australia Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, India Prime Minister Narendra Modi, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, South Korea President Moon Jae-in.<br /><br />Here are some highlights from the event:<br /><br /><center><div class="video-wrapper"><div style="height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.21%; position: relative;"><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" gesture="media" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OXZdxiYqIus?ecver=2" style="height: 100%; left: 0; position: absolute; width: 100%;" width="100%"></iframe></div></div></center><br /><b>4. <a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/10/duterte-declares-marawi-city-liberated-terrorists.html" rel="nofollow">Battle of Marawi</a> (MAY-OCTOBER 2017)</b><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7C0Iwd1DOz-2mNvpFJXoz4x_OvmhLUc1Lnt9xA03VDNEUdvilEb9HIIy439o_jyyCuSZilRmOHHomTTMkROHuxQZpJsd0J-wVdiwcLJJ7PzFzHkEsr5vtiM-3sXHSEeshYilApFNIqwvv/s1600/bombing-marawi-wikipedia.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Battle of Marawi lasted for 5 months and displaced 1.1 million civilians." border="0" class="img" data-original-height="485" data-original-width="728" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7C0Iwd1DOz-2mNvpFJXoz4x_OvmhLUc1Lnt9xA03VDNEUdvilEb9HIIy439o_jyyCuSZilRmOHHomTTMkROHuxQZpJsd0J-wVdiwcLJJ7PzFzHkEsr5vtiM-3sXHSEeshYilApFNIqwvv/s1600/bombing-marawi-wikipedia.jpg" title="The Battle of Marawi lasted for 5 months and displaced 1.1 million civilians." /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Battle of Marawi lasted for 5 months and displaced 1.1 million civilians. Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The Battle of Marawi or the Marawi Siege was the longest urban battle in the history of the Philippines. The siege started on May 23, 2017 between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and several groups of Islamic militants who claimed to be connected to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), including the Maute and Abu Sayyaf Salafi jihadists.<br /><br />Isnilon Hapilon, a commander of the Abu Sayyaf gathered his group with the Maute group and faced the Philippine army and the local police. <br /><br />The army admitted that it was a struggle to end the battle because the militants seem to have “unlimited” reinforcements. They were heavily armed with sophisticated guns and armaments. The militants have also made use of underground tunnels and mosques for their hideouts. There were even foreign militants joining the group, who allegedly trained them. <br /><br />The battle lasted for 5 months with over 95% of the structures in the city heavily damaged. The government released a report noting that the casualties included 974 militants and 165 government forces were killed. Nearly 1.1 million civilians were displaced.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGPjRQQWnLMSzXNzbQ9Ekf8-VNnVK5_G-c9N2JaIpJSpT5ZasAcLpVorBCwve9b4XzFpaIB0G9pt8FZlZawcA_-Eo4uebslH7OH8SgQHioMlMSyYuKPB11_bN-mVrrWYrepbphq175eDOC/s1600/duterte-talks-to-troops.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="President Duterte frequently visited the troops during the siege." border="0" class="img" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGPjRQQWnLMSzXNzbQ9Ekf8-VNnVK5_G-c9N2JaIpJSpT5ZasAcLpVorBCwve9b4XzFpaIB0G9pt8FZlZawcA_-Eo4uebslH7OH8SgQHioMlMSyYuKPB11_bN-mVrrWYrepbphq175eDOC/s1600/duterte-talks-to-troops.jpg" title="President Duterte frequently visited the troops during the siege." /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">President Duterte frequently visited the troops during the siege. Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The government formally called on the end of the war on October 17, 2017 following the deaths of leader Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute. President Duterte declared Marawi to be “liberated from terrorist influence.”<br /><br />Here’s a quick look at how devastated the city had been after the 5-month long battle:<br /><br /><center><div class="video-wrapper"><div style="height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.21%; position: relative;"><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" gesture="media" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-cWN1V492d8?ecver=2" style="height: 100%; left: 0; position: absolute; width: 100%;" width="100%"></iframe></div></div></center><br /><b>5. <a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/05/martial-law-declared-mindanao-marawi-clash.html" rel="nofollow">Proclamation of Martial Law in Mindanao</a> (MAY 2017-DECEMBER 2018)</b><br /><br />On the verge of escalating conflict in Marawi City, President Duterte placed the entire Mindanao under martial law. <br /><br />The President was in Moscow when reports came that militants have attacked Marawi City. On May 23, 2017 at Moscow, President Duterte signed Proclamation 216 that declared a state of martial law and suspended the writ of Habeas Corpus in Mindanao for 60 days.<br /><br />Under the 1987 Constitution, the proclamation is allowed for up an initial period of 60 days and can be extended in cases of “rebellion, invasion or when public safety is required.”<br /><br />The minority bloc and leftist groups argued that the extension was unnecessary and they feared the proclamation might extend nationwide. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP7Wu3wye_PL_MdOnbs2ZL61qKZklTwu9REdHSuL67K9UKcOVeXVSanQwRZ2Qz6f3XoBOwEDcvkIC2OlUkXC29h3wlFOQmVDf6AGm1LB_6p-4Y2khr5UGDwSyOAkDorB_2INl__pdBggCM/s1600/martial-law-mindanao-extended-ABSCBN.JPG" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="martial law was extended in Mindanao until 2018" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="313" data-original-width="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP7Wu3wye_PL_MdOnbs2ZL61qKZklTwu9REdHSuL67K9UKcOVeXVSanQwRZ2Qz6f3XoBOwEDcvkIC2OlUkXC29h3wlFOQmVDf6AGm1LB_6p-4Y2khr5UGDwSyOAkDorB_2INl__pdBggCM/s1600/martial-law-mindanao-extended-ABSCBN.JPG" title="martial law was extended in Mindanao until 2018" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In an effort to stop insurgencies in the region, martial law was extended in Mindanao until 2018. Photo Courtesy: ABS-CBN</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Despite hesitation and disapproval from critics, the resolution was extended until December 31, 2017. A special joint session between the House of Representatives and the Senate, voted 261-18 lawmakers in favor of the extension.<br /><br />It only took less than half a day for the lawmakers to approve another extension of the martial law in Mindanao, this time it will last for a full year. On December 13, 2017, a total of 240 lawmakers voted in favor of the extension until December 2018 while 27 lawmakers were against it.<br /><br />President Duterte requested for the year-long extension following the recommendation of <br />Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana due to rising insurgency in Mindanao.<br /><br />Here is President Duterte’s reaction on the martial law extension in Mindanao until December 2018:<br /><br /><center><div class="video-wrapper"><div style="height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.21%; position: relative;"><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" gesture="media" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Zm1eWSyd7fE?ecver=2" style="height: 100%; left: 0; position: absolute; width: 100%;" width="100%"></iframe></div></div></center><br /><b>6. <a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/06/resorts-world-manila-attack-updates.html" rel="nofollow">Attack on Resorts World Manila killed 38 civilians</a> (JUNE 2017)</b><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrHhVnf0ExOq0lcqs8TbdlxlFnK8GiI59n9W-yfIdMRMJCRHgOaFquARoh0mJh32PDZnrHOobOxRBMveE9JSkK_pd0lpIeODjbqJfitMCuohrJyes7-aLXPWVGIFJrBGGjWK6C7dsIlk_P/s1600/resorts-world-manila-attack.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Attack on Resorts World Manila killed 38 civilians" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrHhVnf0ExOq0lcqs8TbdlxlFnK8GiI59n9W-yfIdMRMJCRHgOaFquARoh0mJh32PDZnrHOobOxRBMveE9JSkK_pd0lpIeODjbqJfitMCuohrJyes7-aLXPWVGIFJrBGGjWK6C7dsIlk_P/s1600/resorts-world-manila-attack.jpg" title="Attack on Resorts World Manila killed 38 civilians" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Resorts World Manila was gripped with fear as a lone gunman started opening fire. Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia</td></tr></tbody></table><br />On June 2, 2017, the Resorts World Manila was gripped with fear when a lone gunman started a violent commotion. Around midnight, the gunman started setting casino tables on fire that caused panic and eventually a stampede. He was carrying a bottle of gasoline and armed with an M4 rifle.<br /><br />When the gunman started opening fire, people started running for the exit but several decided to stay and hide. At least 36 were reported dead due to smoke inhalation of toxic fumes. One Korean guest died due to heart attack. Bodies were recovered in the casino room and bathrooms. <br /><br />By 1:30 AM, SWAT team arrived and a gunfire erupted. The gunman, allegedly wounded, locked himself in room 510 of the Maxims Hotel. He lit the room on fire and committed suicide by shooting himself in the head and setting himself on fire. Alongside his burnt body, the bag of gambling chips that he stole, a rifle and a pistol were recovered. <br /><br />A probe was opened on June 7, 2017 by the House of Representatives' Committee on Public Order and Safety and the Committee on Games and Amusement. The Resorts World Manila admitted the lapse on their security but was confident they practiced their emergency protocol.<br /><br />On June 29, Resorts World resumed its gambling operations. They also hired new agency to tighten its security.<br /><br />Here is the footage showing how the armed gunman was able to enter the premises:<br /><br /><center><div class="video-wrapper"><div style="height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.21%; position: relative;"><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" gesture="media" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NjwwuHxCn2U?ecver=2" style="height: 100%; left: 0; position: absolute; width: 100%;" width="100%"></iframe></div></div></center><br /><b>7. The War on Drugs Campaign: The Ozamiz Raid and <a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/08/kian-loyd-delos-santos-17-killed-caloocan-latest-update-video.html" rel="nofollow">Killing of Kian delos Santos</a> (JULY-AUGUST 2017)</b><br /><br />Even during the election campaign, President Duterte had been adamant that he will fight to stop illegal drugs in the country. The War on Drugs campaign have been rolled out and several of its stories have captured the nation. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAz1UKeztvsPEkji-w3VzUYNDlRQRCYehc9bl0BU_km7epTxQRI7-T9xTAXDmAvqZr1Glt3AogkwCVhyvQF2wCNiZ1s3IsC1CWwQl9dSnu-ZxcrpeXL2KiZMo5pGWAkUkGG-JHaEDCsXfT/s1600/Duterte-Drug-Lords-CNNPH.jpg" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Duterte War on Drugs Campaign" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAz1UKeztvsPEkji-w3VzUYNDlRQRCYehc9bl0BU_km7epTxQRI7-T9xTAXDmAvqZr1Glt3AogkwCVhyvQF2wCNiZ1s3IsC1CWwQl9dSnu-ZxcrpeXL2KiZMo5pGWAkUkGG-JHaEDCsXfT/s1600/Duterte-Drug-Lords-CNNPH.jpg" title="Duterte War on Drugs Campaign" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The President presented his narco-politicians and warned everyone. Photo Courtesy: CNN Philippines</td></tr></tbody></table><br />On July 30, 2017 at dawn, a group of Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) conducted a raid on the property of Ozamiz Mayor Reynaldo Parojinog. The team was supposed to serve a search warrant after the Parojinogs were named as narco-politicians. Allegedly, Parojinog’s team of securities started to open fire on the authorities prompting a gunfire between the two groups.<br /><br />The raid that turned violent resulted to 15 persons killed including Mayor Parojinog and his wife. The authorities recovered several arms including a rifle, grenades, .45 pistols, about P1.4 million in cash, 500 grams of suspected illegal drugs, two cellphones, and an M16 rifle. Vice Mayor Nova Parojinog-Echavez and her brother, Reynaldo Jr were arrested and brought to Camp Crame.<br /><br />The Parojinogs denied any involvement in illegal drugs and claimed that the recovered arms and illegal drugs were “planted.” They also denied firing at the authorities and claimed that the raid was a “rubout.”<br /><br />A few months after, another controversial case had divided the nation. On August 16, 2017, a 17-year-old student Kian delos Santos was fatally shot by authorities while conducting a drug operation in Caloocan, Manila. <br /><br />A CCTV footage was able to capture two uninformed policemen dragging the minor in a dark alley where Delos Santos’ body would soon be found.<br /><br />Much controversy surrounded the event not only because Delos Santos was a minor but because the involved policemen’s version of events were different from the CCTV footage. The authorities also insisted that while Delos Santos was not on the watch list, he was actually a “runner” of illegal drugs for his uncle. <br /><br />President Duterte reminded the police to not abuse their powers. He was quoted saying to PNP Chief Dela Rosa, “hulihin mo na at kulungin mo ang mga pulis na dawit sa pagkasawi ni Kian.”<br /><br />On August 25, Delos Santos’ family filed murder and torture charges against police officers involved in the drug operation.<br /><br />Here is the meet-up between President Duterte and Delos Santos’ parents at Malacanang: <br /><br /><center><div class="video-wrapper"><div style="height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.21%; position: relative;"><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" gesture="media" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SEmKoigUYOs?ecver=2" style="height: 100%; left: 0; position: absolute; width: 100%;" width="100%"></iframe></div></div></center><br /><b>8. Presidential son, Paolo Duterte appears in Senate for P6.4 billion shabu issue (SEPTEMBER 2017)</b><br /><br />During the House of the Representatives’ investigation on the P6.4 billion worth of shabu shipment, Presidential son, Paolo Duterte and brother in-law Mans Carpio were mentioned by drug “fixer” and customs broker Mark Taguba. Taguba claims that Duterte is part of the “Davao group” that uses their influence in Customs to allow the entry of illegal drugs.<br /><br />Photos showing Duterte and other personalities involved in the drug scandal had surfaced on social media. President Duterte denied the allegations and called it mere propaganda. The President even instructed the PNP to kill Paolo if his involvement with illegal drugs is proven.<br /><br />A series of tirade had erupted between the President and Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, one of his staunch critics.<br /><br />Watch Paolo Duterte answers allegations hurled by Senator Trillanes:<br /><br /><center><div class="video-wrapper"><div style="height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.21%; position: relative;"><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" gesture="media" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9PMyXwaPZ2c?ecver=2" style="height: 100%; left: 0; position: absolute; width: 100%;" width="100%"></iframe></div></div></center><br /><b>9. P1,000 Commission on Human Rights (CHR) 2018 budget (SEPTEMBER 2017)</b><br /><br />There was a public uproar when the House of Representatives gave the Commission on Human Right a 2018 budget of P1,000.<br /><br />On September 12, 2017, 119 lawmakers approved the P1,000 CHR budget. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1m3C4S9MVNGZML6t6dE-A1u7qJGLGA2GBaEfw9wC8ewmdbiHJm4oMiaOsu1tRslR7rMxzG7dHgJpXKdamZUcs3CIUnCfDzu8J4zPQDRFM6S4w-r3CdUo5vS766LLvBODHkFbZT8rnbE4A/s1600/lawmakers-approves-chr-budget.JPG" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="119 lawmakers made the “clenched fist” sign in a unitary move to approve the P1,000 CHR budget" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="633" data-original-width="950" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1m3C4S9MVNGZML6t6dE-A1u7qJGLGA2GBaEfw9wC8ewmdbiHJm4oMiaOsu1tRslR7rMxzG7dHgJpXKdamZUcs3CIUnCfDzu8J4zPQDRFM6S4w-r3CdUo5vS766LLvBODHkFbZT8rnbE4A/s1600/lawmakers-approves-chr-budget.JPG" title="119 lawmakers made the “clenched fist” sign in a unitary move to approve the P1,000 CHR budget" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 119 lawmakers made the “clenched fist” sign in a unitary move to approve the P1,000 CHR budget. Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The CHR with its leader, Chito Gascon had been very vocal of the administration’s alleged human rights abuses in its War on Drugs campaign. The agency had also been criticized for “not doing its job” and focused solely on the administration’s actions and being mum on other abuses.<br /><br />CHR Commissioner Gwen Pimentel Gana confirmed that House Speaker Alvarez had asked Gascon to resign and if not, the P1,000 budget will be approved.<br /><br />On September 20, the CHR along with the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), and National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) had their 2018 budgets restored. The CHR’s 2018 budget  of P508.5 million finally was approved. <br /><br />Here is Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez defending the P1,000 CHR budget:<br /><br /><center><div class="video-wrapper"><div style="height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.21%; position: relative;"><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" gesture="media" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xLaM0gU1JWU?ecver=2" style="height: 100%; left: 0; position: absolute; width: 100%;" width="100%"></iframe></div></div></center><br /><b>10. <a href="http://pinoybuzz.blogkorner.com/2017/12/dengvaxia-update-one-dead-hospitalized.html" rel="nofollow">The Anti-Dengue Vaccine, Dengvaxia Health Scare</a> (DECEMBER 2017)</b><br /><br />The world’s first anti-dengue vaccine, Dengvaxia is in the middle of controversy after its makers admitted several health warnings.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX2-IKDbVbGJsGta_XsFvv87sbsQAo7wriLrTX7HVdL4AHjjyyiH0AbkJH76AKu6_fbPzHVK0scvlCoYvK5zddtEQ1xbXDS2NUwnexvhmZn46onrA2JHGMKrxZzO3hD278eKH85-7p5sSR/s1600/dengvaxia-dengue-vaccine-sanofi.png" imageanchor="1" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="world’s first vaccine, Dengvaxia caused a national health scare" border="0" class="img" data-original-height="568" data-original-width="559" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX2-IKDbVbGJsGta_XsFvv87sbsQAo7wriLrTX7HVdL4AHjjyyiH0AbkJH76AKu6_fbPzHVK0scvlCoYvK5zddtEQ1xbXDS2NUwnexvhmZn46onrA2JHGMKrxZzO3hD278eKH85-7p5sSR/s1600/dengvaxia-dengue-vaccine-sanofi.png" title="world’s first vaccine, Dengvaxia caused a national health scare" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The world’s first vaccine, Dengvaxia caused a national health scare. Photo Courtesy: Mims</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The French pharmaceutical Sanofi Pasteur had released a warning about the effects of Dengvaxia to those who have no history of dengue. They admitted that the vaccine would only be beneficial to those who have already been infected with dengue before. But for those who haven’t been exposed to the dengue virus, it could cause severe hospitalisation.<br /><br />This resulted to a public uproar after almost 733,000 school children were part of the Dengvaxia national immunization program. Under the Aquino administration, the government procured P3.5 billion worth of the vaccine.<br /><br />A Senate probe had begun and former Health Secretary Janette Garin denied any anomalies surrounding the procurement of Dengvaxia. She clarified that there was no corruption or “fast-tracking” of negotiations to benefit them. Garin continued that the DOH acted “based on the data available at that.”<br /><br />Senator Richard Gordon had been vocal that the Aquino administration along the Sanofi Pasteur should be held liable for the “health scare.”<br /><br />Aquino appeared before the Senate and vowed that he acted on “good faith.” He clarified that he was not advised of the dangers of the vaccine. He was not even informed about Sanofi Pasteur’s issues of bribery and corruption in some parts of the world.<br /><br />The Senate probe is still ongoing but here is Aquino’s statement:<br /><br /><center><div class="video-wrapper"><div style="height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.21%; position: relative;"><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" gesture="media" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nIsl-Ug4mbc?ecver=2" style="height: 100%; left: 0; position: absolute; width: 100%;" width="100%"></iframe></div></div></center><br />Which one were you most affected about?<br /><br /><b>— Sally, The Summit Express</b></div>

Philippines in 2017: The Year in Review

MANILA, Philippines - The year is almost over and Filipinos have witnessed events and stories that affected the country and shaped 2017. Tak...