59 areas placed under tropical cyclone wind signals due to ‘Kristine’

BY ELLALYN DE VERA-RUIZ

Oct 23, 2024 08:57 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Kristine could make landfall in Isabela or northern Aurora on Wednesday evening, Oct. 23, or Thursday morning, Oct. 24, potentially as a severe tropical storm.

• Nearly the entire country is expected to experience rainfall in the next 24 hours due to the vast circulation of Tropical Storm Kristine.

• Kristine may exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Friday, Oct. 25.

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Forecast track and intensity of Tropical Storm Kristine (Trami) as of 8 a.m., Oct. 23, 2024 (Courtesy of PAGASA)

Twenty-six areas have been placed under tropical cyclone wind Signal No. 2 and 33 areas under Signal No. 1 as Tropical Storm “Kristine” (international name “Trami”) approaches Luzon on Wednesday, Oct. 23, said the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

In the PAGASA’s 8 a.m. bulletin, Signal No. 2 was raised in Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Apayao, Abra, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Benguet, mainland Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, Aurora, Nueva Ecija, Bulacan, Tarlac, Pampanga, Zambales, northern and eastern portions of Quezon (Infanta, General Nakar, Real, Mauban, Perez, Alabat, Quezon, Calauag, Tagkawayan, Guinayangan), including Polillo Islands, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Albay, and northeastern portion of Sorsogon (Prieto Diaz, City of Sorsogon).

Areas under Signal No. 1 include Metro Manila, Batanes, Babuyan Islands, Bataan, Rizal, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, the rest of Quezon, Occidental Mindoro including Lubang Islands, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Calamian Islands, the rest of Sorsogon, Masbate (including Ticao and Burias Islands), Aklan, Capiz, Antique (including Caluya Islands), Iloilo, Guimaras, northern portion of Negros Occidental (Pontevedra, La Castellana, Moises Padilla, Bago City, La Carlota City, Valladolid, Pulupandan, Bacolod City, San Enrique, Murcia, Silay City, City of Talisay, Enrique B. Magalona, Manapla, City of Victorias, Cadiz City, Sagay City, City of Escalante, Toboso, Calatrava, Salvador Benedicto, San Carlos City), northern portion of Negros Oriental (Vallehermoso, Canlaon City, City of Guihulngan), northern and central portions of Cebu (Alcantara, Argao, Dumanjug, Sibonga, Pinamungahan, Ronda, Liloan, Cebu City, Moalboal, Consolacion, Danao City, Borbon, Carmen, Daanbantayan, Tuburan, City of Bogo, Tabogon, City of Naga, Lapu-Lapu City, City of Carcar, Mandaue City, Catmon, Minglanilla, Toledo City, Cordova, Compostela, San Remigio, Balamban, Aloguinsan, San Fernando, Asturias, Barili, Medellin, Sogod, Tabuelan, City of Talisay), including Bantayan Islands and Camotes Islands, Bohol, the rest of Eastern Samar, the rest of Northern Samar, Samar, Leyte, Biliran, Southern Leyte, Dinagat Islands, and Surigao del Norte (including Siargao-Bucas Grande Group).

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Kristine has maximum sustained winds of 85 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center and gusts reaching up to 105 kph.

The storm’s center was located 310 kilometers east of Baler, Aurora, and is expected to move west-northwestward at 15 kph.

PAGASA said Kristine could make landfall in Isabela or northern Aurora on Wednesday evening, or Thursday morning, Oct. 24, potentially as a severe tropical storm.

Heavy rainfall forecast

Nearly the entire country is expected to experience rainfall in the next 24 hours due to the vast circulation of Tropical Storm Kristine.

PAGASA warned of intense to torrential rainfall in Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Central Luzon, Bicol Region, mainland Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, and Quezon.

Moderate to, at times, intense rainfall is also expected in Metro Manila, the rest of Luzon, Visayas, Dinagat Islands, and Surigao del Norte.

The trough or extension of Kristine may also bring moderate to, at times, heavy rains to Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, and Soccsksargen.

The rest of Mindanao is likely to experience isolated rain showers or thunderstorms due to Kristine’s trough.

PAGASA warned that these conditions may lead to flooding and landslides, especially in areas identified as highly or very highly susceptible to these hazards on hazard maps, and in areas with significant antecedent rainfall.

Kristine may exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Friday, Oct. 25.

Cushion natural disaster impacts; secure a safer future for all

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Oct 23, 2024 07:34 AM

  

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The Philippines, with its unique geographical location, faces an unparalleled challenge — it is the most disaster-prone country in Southeast Asia, leading to the highest rate of internal displacement due to natural disasters. 

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Geneva-based Internal Displacement Monitoring Center (IDMC) bared this in a joint report, “Harnessing Development Financing for Solutions to Displacement in the Context of Disasters and Climate Change in Asia and the Pacific.” According to the report, natural disasters displace Filipinos the most compared to their neighbors in Southeast Asia — nearly 43 million disaster displacements between 2014 and 2023. With this development, both multilateral lenders called for immediate aid and response to calamity victims to prevent them from sliding into poverty. 

This situation underscores the urgency of addressing this crisis through coordinated efforts of the government, private sector, and every Filipino citizen.

To begin with, the state must prioritize the integration of displacement considerations into national and local policies. This includes enhancing the National Climate Change Action Plan and the National Disaster Risk Management Plan to ensure they are robust and responsive to the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) should expedite its review of the Manila Bay reclamation projects, ensuring that environmental and social impacts are thoroughly assessed and mitigated. It has been awhile since President Marcos ordered a review of the Manila Bay reclamation projects. 

Investments in resilient infrastructure are crucial, therefore the government should take steps to make this happen. It should allocate more resources to building disaster-resilient housing, improving early warning systems, and enhancing evacuation centers. Additionally, there should be a focus on sustainable land use planning to prevent settlements in high-risk areas.

The private sector plays a pivotal role in helping the government address displacement concerns. Businesses can contribute by investing in disaster-resilient infrastructure and technologies that mitigate the impacts of climate change. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives should focus on supporting displaced communities through job creation, skills training, and livelihood programs.

Moreover, private companies can collaborate with the government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to develop innovative solutions for disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation. This includes funding research and development projects aimed at creating sustainable and resilient communities.

To address displacement, every Filipino has a role to play. Community-based disaster risk reduction programs should be promoted, encouraging local participation in disaster preparedness and response activities. Education campaigns can raise awareness about the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable practices.

Citizens can also advocate for stronger climate policies and hold both the government and private sector accountable for their actions. By fostering a culture of preparedness and resilience, communities can better withstand the impacts of natural disasters.

The displacement problem in the country requires a comprehensive and unified approach. The government, private sector, and citizens must work together to implement effective solutions that address the root causes of displacement and build a more resilient nation. 

As Sen. Loren Legarda stressed during the plenary discussion of the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) in Pasay City on Oct. 16, “government, the private sector, civil society, local communities, the education sector, must collaborate to create inclusive and innovative solutions.”

With the right policies, investments, and community engagement, we can turn the tide on displacement and secure a safer future for all Filipinos.

THE THEORY THAT MATTERS

By Klaus Döring

We love to complain! Many times we don't have reasons at all to do so - but, we love to complain. Especially nowadays. Our world is full of mess - isn't it? If we observe all news - well, what can we say?

We bring many assertions to bear: first, in the past we have been thriftier and economical, more religious and devout, more patriotic, industrious, more hard-working, keen and obedient. And, second, above everything and all: in the past we had more idealists. Third, nowadays we have (mostly?) material things in mind - what a disgrace.

Materialists or idealists? What do you love?

I just quoted Vox Populi... .

A "materialist" has indeed become a swear word. I don't mean with "material" the accumulated data out of which a writer creates a work of literary, historical, or scientific value. A materialist is being easily described as someone with an attitude, who ignores spiritual values, compared with an idealist, who has the tendency to seek the highest spiritual perfection.

Idealism means the doctrine that appearance is purely the perception, the idea of subjects, and that the world is to be regarded as consisting of mind. The coquetry of higher philosophy makes it difficult to bear the ups and downs in our daily life.

Sure, we all know that "our last earthly dress has no pockets  any more". Striving for earthly and terrestrial possession, property and estate might be the hit-man of idealism. That's how we have been taught. "Wine, women and song", having the unpleasant feeling of fullness, egoism and bragging as well as showing-off - are these the materialist's real attitudes?

Is the idealist, many times not being able to stand on earth with both feet, the only one who occupies himself with religion and virtuousness - so to speak, with celestial and heavenly things? Is that really so? Can we make such a distinction? Sure, it's easy to do so: it's manageable and comfortable. But well, why is the enjoyment of having a tasty meal BAD, and listening to a recital composed by Johann Sebastian Bach BETTER? Why should art be better than roasted pork and a bottle of wine? Value judgements and moral concepts... .

Owning a house and lot and care are - of course - earthly properties, as well as bank saving accounts, profitable insurances, and invest advantageously in stocks. Is a terrible underpaid nurse or a book author an idealist, because he or she doesn't work for the filthy lure but for higher values? Has Jesus been an idealist, because He renunciated and died without terrestrial possession? Has Jesus been a materialist, because He fed thousands of people on the breadline? Are we idealists, if we bequeath nothing to our families and might die without a single centavo, because earthly things are bad?

Amina Aranaz-Alunan’s world of design

The Filipino accessories designer on bringing local pieces to the international stage and shaping the minds of the country’s future design leaders.

BY JOHN LEGASPI

  

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It was the beginning of another semester at SoFA Design Institute when Amina Aranaz-Alunan scheduled an interview with Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. Unlike past opening days, this one was particularly special as the staff welcomed students to their new home at The Proscenium Retail Row in Rockwell, Makati City.

Amina Aranaz-Alunan

Compared to its former location on Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, the new space is larger, offering more room for students to interact and bring their visions to life. SoFA Design Institute was established in 2007, and in some ways, the school's building was inspired by Amina’s own journey. Growing up, she knew she wanted to pursue a career in fashion, but at the time, there were no fashion courses or degrees focused on designing clothes.

Together with Loralee Baron-Soong, Amina co-founded the school, which soon gained street credibility as the country's go-to institution for design and fashion.

“When I was in high school, I knew that fashion was my path, but there were no options,” Amina shared. “After attending Marangoni and experiencing what it’s like to live and study in a fashion capital, I felt that the Philippines needed something. It started with a dream that one day Manila would be a fashion capital. Part of that dream was legitimizing fashion education and professionals. Fashion can’t all be self-taught or viewed as just a hobby. That’s what led me to establish SoFA.”

Before becoming the co-founder and president of SoFA Design Institute, Amina was first an accessories designer. With her mother, Becky Aranaz, already in the bag manufacturing business, it was a natural step for Amina to pursue a professional career in fashion. After studying an interdisciplinary course at Ateneo de Manila and gaining formal education in fashion at Istituto Marangoni Milano, Amina set out to establish Aranáz in 1999. Together with her mother and sister Rosanna Aranaz, she aimed to elevate Filipino fashion and bring it to the international stage.

In a conversation with Manila Bulletin Lifestyle, Amina reflects on her early days as an accessories designer, the challenges she faced as the leader of her brand, and SoFA’s role in shaping the future design leaders of the Philippines.

Aranáz's latest collection

What inspired you to become an accessories designer?

I would say that I was born into it. My mom had a bag business ever since I was born, and I was always interested in fashion from a very young age. I didn’t proclaim that I would be a fashion designer or an accessories designer, but I was definitely into fashion and the arts.

She had a bag factory and was also interested in fashion, so we were exposed to it early on. One of my activities as a child was playing dress-up with my mom's wardrobe. I remember she had a chest as tall as I was. Every drawer was filled with accessories from the ’80s—big, bold, chunky, and colorful. I would just have fun, opening the drawers and playing around.

What were the initial challenges you faced when you launched Aranáz?

We were blessed that the market embraced the brand. I grew up in a generation that patronized imported brands because there weren’t many local options. Introducing a Filipino brand was a challenge for us. At that time, wearing a handmade Filipino bag was something people typically associated with souvenir shops; it wasn’t viewed as a fashion item. I wanted to challenge that notion. We were pleasantly surprised that the market resonated with our vision. To this day, I would say everyone is proud to support a local brand.

Aranáz's pieces on display at Frensh department store Samaritaine

Was it hard to penetrate the international market?

When we officially started the brand from 1998 to 1999, the dream of making it an international brand was there. We began launching internationally in 2012, which felt like a long time because we didn’t know what to do. Unlike other local brands that made it abroad, we operated in the Philippines and didn’t have offices overseas. One of the main things that helped us was Manila Fame. It became our practice ground.

I was part of a group called Manila Wear, spearheaded by designer Josie Natori. She gathered designers who could eventually export their brands. I also undertook some initiatives on my own, but that practice allowed me to travel abroad for trade shows and connect with agents. Sometimes, I would travel with people from Manila Wear or a group of Filipino designers.

It took time to understand how to create wholesale prices, lookbooks, and line sheets—skills that weren’t taught in school, especially back then. Marangoni didn’t teach me these things because I took a design course. They, however, did teach me about branding, and I worked on Aranáz's branding while I was there.

When was the moment you felt you had finally made it?

It was when we started to seriously bring our brand internationally. My sister and I created a wish list of all the stores where we wanted to see our brand displayed. I can say that we have managed to cross off each store from that list. For us, that’s validation that the handmade Filipino bags we create are worthy of being on the same shelves as the international brands we once looked up to. To be among them is validation.

Our bags are our way of telling the Filipino story to the world. That’s why, if you buy our bags, you’ll see info cards stating, “a piece of Filipino culture in your hands.” One of the hashtags we frequently use is #WithLoveFromThePhilippines. It gives people a glimpse into the tropical Filipino lifestyle.

The newest addition to SoFA's campus

Let’s go back to SoFA. Can you tell us more about the new campus?

It was designed in collaboration with interior design students and faculty, with consultation from interior designers and SoFA board members Ivy and Cynthia Almario. The space is symbolic of the design process—a blank canvas.

When you enter the lobby, you’ll find the Think Tank. As you walk through, you’ll see curves that guide you through the design process, from the research and design lab to the collaboration space. The Collab Cove is one of the new features; it’s a multi-purpose room used for events, fashion shows, and exhibits. We also have a photo studio and workspace for students, along with a lounge for them to relax.

What have you learned from your students?

One of the unique aspects of our teaching at SoFA is our approach to the design process and inspiration. We encourage our students to incorporate their personal stories and perspectives into their designs. That should be the starting point—not something external or disconnected from their own experiences.

When I interact with students, it is on a personal level. Through their work, you can glimpse their innermost selves. The last class I taught was before the pandemic, and those sessions were, in some ways, therapeutic. There were emotions, even tears. They use design as a form of therapy and a tool for empowerment. Through them, I saw how design can be transformative; creative work is not mechanical or soulless. This might be biased, but it is a privilege to be a designer and to be exposed to other designers. It is a profession—a calling—that embodies one’s entire being.

Inside SoFA's new campus in Rockwell, Makati City

What are you most proud of?

I’m proud that I can do what I love. No matter how stressful or overwhelming it gets, I approach everything with love. With Aranáz and SoFA, I have always been guided by my heart. Some might see it as a flaw that I lean toward heart over mind, but I feel that what I do doesn’t feel like work because it is so true to who I am. Design is where I live and where I can always be found. I cannot imagine a life outside of design or what I am doing.

Vilma Santos, Aga Muhlach, Arjo Atayde, Judy Ann Santos join 50th Metro Manila Film Festival

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Oct 22, 2024 04:42 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• This year's festival is set to be more vibrant and dynamic, showcasing the rich talent and diversity of the Filipino film industry.

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The stars and producers of the 10 official entries for the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival pose during the announcement of the official entries for the annual film festival held at the Podium in Mandaluyong City on Oct. 22. (Images courtesy of MMDA)

The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) unveiled the final five entries for its upcoming 50th edition, marking a significant moment for the Philippine cinema industry, during a press conference held at The Podium in Mandaluyong City on Oct. 22.

This year's festival is set to be more vibrant and dynamic, showcasing the rich talent and diversity of the Filipino film industry.

From left: MMFF Chairman Atty. Romando Artes, former Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos, and MMFF Selection Committee head Jesse Ejercito

The second batch of official entries for the 50th MMFF are:

1) My Future You (Regal Entertainment) - Seth Fedelin and Francine Diaz; romance

2) Uninvited (Mentorque) - Vilma Santos-Recto and Aga Muhlach; thriller

3) Topak (Nathan Studios) - Arjo Atayde and Julia Montes; action

4) Hold Me Close (Viva Communications) - Julia Barretto and Carlo Aquino; romance 

5) Espantaho (Quantium) - Judy Ann Santos and Lorna Tolentino; horror

Sylvia Sanchez, representing Nathan Studios, receives the special citation after the movie 'Topak' is chosen as one of the official entries for the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival.

In July, the first five official entries were announced.

1) And the breadwinner is ... (Star Cinema and The IdeaFirst Company) - Vice Ganda; comedy

2) Green Bones (GMA Pictures) - Dennis Trillo; suspense/drama

3) Himala, Isang Musikal (Creazion Studios) - Bituin Escalante; musical

4) The Kingdom (APT Entertainment) - Vic Sotto and Piolo Pascual; drama/fantasy/adventure 

5) Strange Frequencies: Taiwan Killer Hospital (Reality MM Studios) - Enrique Gil and Jane De Leon; horror

The new trophy for the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival Gabi Ng Parangal is unveiled 

Former Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos attended the event, demonstrating the government's ongoing support for the arts and entertainment sector.

The reveal was also brightened by the presence of Vice Ganda, the star of one of the newly announced film entries, alongside other notable luminaries such as acclaimed director Jun Robles Lana and Mark Salamat; producers Perci Intalan, Nessa Valdellon, Madonna Tamayo, Carlo Lopez and Jojo Oconer, President and CEO Jane Basas, VP for Production Ops Camille Montano; fan-favorite actress Neomi Gonzales, Kakki Teodoro and Alexa Miro; actor Kokoy de Santos, David Ezra and Rob Gomez. Their participation underscores the festival's reputation as a premier event that attracts the industry's finest talents.

The announcement has been eagerly anticipated by fans and industry stakeholders alike, adding to the high excitement for the festival's golden anniversary.

The final five films, chosen from numerous high-quality submissions, highlight the festival's commitment to presenting diverse stories - from heartwarming tales and comedies to thought-provoking dramas and epic adventures, ensuring a rich cinematic experience for audiences of all tastes.

The cast of 'And the breadwinner is ...' led by Vice Ganda grace the announcement of the second batch of official entries for 50th MMFF.

In line with celebrating its milestone year, the MMFF unveiled a special edition trophy crafted by renowned Filipino artist Jefré. His innovative design pays homage to the Philippine cinema's historical journey and bright future, symbolizing the prestigious achievement of winning at the festival.

MMFF remains an essential platform for showcasing Filipino artistry and promoting the local film industry. "As we commemorate our 50th year, we look back with pride at the growth and achievements of the MMFF. But more importantly, we look forward to the future it helps to shape - one where Filipino cinema continues to thrive and inspire," said MMFF chairperson Atty. Romando Artes during the event.

The festival is set to run from Dec. 25, 2024, to Jan. 7, 2025, with a lineup that promises to captivate and entertain, reinforcing the MMFF's role in nurturing and celebrating Philippine cinema.

21. jemandem Löcher in den Bauch fragen

 

21. jemandem Löcher in den Bauch fragen

This one is pretty straightforward. In German, if you pester someone with questions, you are literally “asking holes in his belly.” As for the origin of this German saying, please have a look at this resource here. 

Example:

A: Wie heißt er denn? Wo kommt er her? Wie alt ist er? Ist er hübsch? Wie viele Freundinnen hatte er denn schon?

B: Jetzt hör doch auf mir Löcher in den Bauch zu fragen! Du wirst schon sehen!  

Translation:

A: What’s his name? Where does he come from? How old is he? Is he handsome? How many girlfriends has he had?

B: Now stop asking me holes in my stomach! You’ll see!