This might not be the typical expat blog, written by a German expat, living in the Philippines since 1999. It's different. In English and in German. Check it out! Enjoy reading!
Dies mag' nun wirklich nicht der typische Auswandererblog eines Deutschen auf den Philippinen sein. Er soll etwas anders sein. In Englisch und in Deutsch! Viel Spass beim Lesen!
You plan to move to the Philippines? Wollen Sie auf den Philippinen leben?
There are REALLY TONS of websites telling us how, why, maybe why not and when you'll be able to move to the Philippines. I only love to tell and explain some things "between the lines". Enjoy reading, be informed, have fun and be entertained too!
Ja, es gibt tonnenweise Webseiten, die Ihnen sagen wie, warum, vielleicht warum nicht und wann Sie am besten auf die Philippinen auswandern könnten. Ich möchte Ihnen in Zukunft "zwischen den Zeilen" einige zusätzlichen Dinge berichten und erzählen. Viel Spass beim Lesen und Gute Unterhaltung!
Visitors of germanexpatinthephilippines/Besucher dieser Webseite.Ich liebe meine Flaggensammlung!
The current rice wastage in the country could feed up to 2.8 million Filipinos every year, Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said on Tuesday, Dec. 3, as he pushed for the implementation of a “half-cup rice” policy in restaurants, canteens and even eateries.
Citing data from the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), Laurel also said that household rice wastage decreased to 255,000 metric tons in 2019, down from 340,000 metric tons in 2009.
Despite such improvement, Laurel said the matter is still very concerning.
“This progress is encouraging, but the numbers remain alarming,” he said.
The Philippines, according to him, needs to revisit the “‘half-cup rice’ proposal to encourage more responsible consumption.”
Based on the survey conducted by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute from 2018-2019, the average Filipino household wastes 53 grams of cooked rice every day, equivalent to 6.4 grams of uncooked rice per person.
The survey data exclude wastage from restaurants and other establishments, making the total potentially higher.
In 2013, President Marcos, who was then senator, introduced the “half-cup rice” initiative by filing a bill that seeks to promote serving smaller portions to reduce waste and diversify meals.
PhilRice Executive Director Dr. John de Leon supported the push for smaller portions, saying it could also address health concerns.
“Serving half a cup of rice reduces waste and promotes healthier, more balanced diets,” he said.
Rice overconsumption has been linked to the rising prevalence of diabetes in the Philippines.
In 2021, one in 14 Filipinos had diabetes, according to the International Diabetes Federation.
Laurel said the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals aim to halve global food waste by 2030. Cutting rice wastage aligns with these objectives while easing the financial strain on rice imports and healthcare costs.
“This isn’t just about food security—it’s about sustainability and public health,” he went on.
Legal knowledge “is an instrument for upholding justice and the rule of law” and should not be wielded “to oppress, distort truth, and subvert justice.”
Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo underscored this during the cultural night of the convention of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP)-Northern Luzon Region held recently at the Kalinga Astrodome in Tabuk City, Kalinga province.
The Chief Justice’s message is a welcome reminder to the country’s judicial officers. Legal knowledge requires not only technical proficiency but also a deep-seated commitment to ethical principles. Lawyers and judges must wield their knowledge with integrity, ensuring that their actions reflect the highest standards of character. This means resisting the temptation to use legal expertise to oppress, distort the truth, or subvert justice.
Competence in the legal profession goes beyond the ability to interpret and apply the law. It encompasses a conscientious approach to every case, recognizing the profound impact that legal decisions have on individuals and society. As Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen pointed out, the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability (CPRA) is crucial in maintaining ethical standards and accountability among judicial officers. By adhering to these standards, lawyers and judges demonstrate their commitment to the rule of law and earn the public’s trust.
The rule of law is the cornerstone of a just society. It ensures that everyone, regardless of status in society, is subject to the same legal standards. Judicial officers play a pivotal role in upholding this principle. Their decisions must be guided by fairness, impartiality, and a steadfast commitment to justice. This requires a balance of skill and character, competence and conscience. When judicial officers embody these qualities, they reinforce the integrity of the legal system and uphold the public’s trust.
Chief Justice Gesmundo’s warning against the misuse of legal knowledge is crucial. The law should never be used as a weapon to oppress or distort the truth. Instead, it should be a shield that protects the rights and freedoms of all individuals. Judicial officers must be vigilant in ensuring that their actions do not contribute to injustice. This vigilance is a testament to their character and their commitment to the ethical practice of law.
The CPRA provides a framework for maintaining high ethical standards and accountability among judicial officers. By adhering to this code, lawyers and judges affirm their dedication to the principles of justice and the rule of law. This commitment is essential in fostering public trust and ensuring that the legal system remains a beacon of fairness and integrity.
The practice of law demands more than just skill and competence. It requires a profound commitment to ethical principles, a conscientious approach to every case, and an unwavering dedication to upholding the rule of law. Judicial officers must embody these qualities to ensure that justice is served and that the legal system remains worthy of public trust. By doing so, they uphold the highest ideals of the legal profession and contribute to a just and equitable society.
The remarks of Chief Justice Gesmundo and Senior Associate Justice Leonen serve as reminders of the essential qualities that must guide the practice of law: skill, character, competence, and conscience. We hope that these will reverberate in the four corners of the legal field.
Last week, Pasig and Roxas cities celebrated the graduation of nearly a thousand families from the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, or 4Ps, the government’s flagship poverty reduction program. Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto aptly dubbed the program, Pugay Tagumpay, as truly, it is a tribute to triumph over poverty achieved by beneficiary-families. Roxas City Mayor Ronnie Dadivas commended the perseverance and willpower of the families that achieved this life-changing milestone.
Launched in 2008 during the administration of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, and continued by President Benigno S. Aquino III, the 4Ps was institutionalized in 2019 by Republic Act No. 11310, as the national poverty reduction strategy and human capital investment program that provides conditional cash transfer to poor households for a maximum period of seven years, to improve health, nutrition and education.”
This was a major paradigm shift in governance from the trickle down approach — which assumed that the government’s macroeconomic programs would eventually bring relief to the poorest families — to direct extension of financial and material support to targeted recipients who are languishing at the bottom rungs of the socioeconomic ladder. Based on the latest self-rated surveys as well as hard data compiled by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), an estimated 17 to 18 million Filipinos are still mired in this deplorable situation.
Administered by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the 4Ps supports 4.4 million households, provides monthly subsidies ranging from ₱300 to ₱700 per child, depending on their educational level, for up to 10 months each year. It also offers ₱750 per month for health and nutrition and a ₱600 monthly rice subsidy.
The PSA recently reported a sharp decrease in the number of working children aged five to 17 years, from 1.48 million in 2022 to 1.09 million in 2023. This indicates a high level of school attendance and, conversely, lower dropout rates in the early grades which had been the bane of earlier government programs of a similar trajectory. Government has been walking the talk. The proposed 2025 national budget includes a ₱114.2 billion allocation for 4Ps cash grants, a ₱7.9 billion increase from the current year’s ₱106.3 billion funding.
Evidently, the DSWD has been implementing sound management — through the Kilos-Unlad Case Management Framework — to further ensure that families who have graduated are able to maintain their self-sufficient status. This enables the LGUs to continue supporting the families with existing programs to prevent them from falling back into poverty. This framework assesses the level of development on different aspects of social protection systems, including, among others: a) social spending as a percentage of GDP; b) indicators of social differentiation or social organization; and c) indicators of social conditions and concerns. Such quantitative evaluation establishes connections between welfare and factors such as GDP, education, unemployment, and social care protection.
The latest indicators reinforce President Ferdinand R. Marcos’ upbeat assessment during his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) last July that truly, the 4Ps has served as a major catalyst in improving the well-being of Filipinos whose liberation from the clutches of poverty has become the primary focal point of the government’s Bagong Pilipinas program. After all, one of the key indicators of an administration’s performance is this: In what way has the quality of life of Filipino families been improved?
With over 44 films on her resume as an actress, Vega’s top three most memorable films are General Commander, Metro Manila, and No Way Out
WINNERS: From left: Caroline Jacquis, of Sacramento, California, 2nd runner-up; Krissy Mccarthy, Toronto, Canada, 4th runner-up; Swimsuit USA International Dr. Angel Bathal, Edmonton, Canada; actress-judge Althea Vega; Lauren Denton, Scottsdale, Arizona, 1st runner-up; and Delaney Pricilla, Panama City, Panama, 3rd runner-up.
One of the biggest annual events in Mexico is the Swimsuit USA International Model Search World Finals. Last year, Althea Vega received the Director’s Choice Award at the 2023 Swimsuit USA International Model Search.
This year, I got an overseas call from the award-winning indie actress, and she told me the good news that the competition directors chose her to judge this year’s event, the now New York-based actress and model told Gossip Girl.
“As a candidate last year, I did my best despite the pressure and challenges. At the same time, I saw it as an opportunity to push myself to greatness to the best of my capabilities and to thrive even more. I was grateful for the support I got from fans, family, and friends; though they were not with me physically, their support and encouragement helped me keep going. But now that I am a judge, it is much different as a judge when tasked with choosing and contributing. People rely on their extensive experience and expertise in worldwide modeling, beauty pageants, fitness, and the show business industry. I feel honored to have been invited to serve as one of the esteemed Judges for the 2024 World Finals of Swimsuit USA International. It is flattering when people recognize my characteristics of being responsible, punctual, helpful, and always having a positive attitude, demonstrating my keen eye and ability to evaluate.”
I asked the female star of the award-winning indie film Metro Manila what the criteria for judging and what quality she was looking for from candidates.
“Joining beauty pageants and judging beauty pageants is not new to me. I am looking for the whole package: stage presence, charisma, intelligence, personality, and advocacy. Still, I also follow, apply, and respect whatever rules the beauty pageant organization gives. Most candidates who join the Swimsuit USA International competitions are aspiring models, women who want to enhance their confidence, or those who want to experience sisterhood. But among these women, there will always be someone who will excel above the rest. I have an eye to spot that queen.”
With over 44 films on her resume as an actress, Vega’s top three most memorable films are General Commander, Metro Manila, and No Way Out. You can check the rest on imdb.com.
Rita Avila's first book, "8 Ways to Comfort with Grace" —MARINEL CRUZ
Actress Rita Avila wrote her first book, “8 Ways to Comfort with Grace,” in 2006 as a guide to consoling people who have lost a loved one.
This was after she lost her 3-week-old son, Elia Jesu. “When the tragedy happened, I realized that I share the same sentiments with people who experienced death in the family. So, I thought, ‘Why don’t I write a book on it?’
“The first thing I did was to research whether we already have an existing book on the topic. I found one but from an American perspective. Iba rin naman ang pang-Pinoy,” the actress told Lifestyle.
Rita Avila’s “8 Ways to Comfort with Grace”
Avila said the book received lots of feedback from readers, mostly thanking her for her effort. Some said the eight rules in her book are very useful.
MANILA, Philippines — Stage actress Eva Noblezada is the face of Vogue Philippines' December 2024-January 2025 issue.
Shot by Harold Julian in New York and wearing Schiaparelli and Marc Jacobs, the fashion editorial showed the Broadway and West End star as she shared the spiritual side of inhabiting a role.
“Even if I’m feeling anxious, the second I go into my character and I begin that transformation, I use that energy and transform that into part of my character, my voice, or the way that I move,” Eva said.
“By the end of the show, my body might be exhausted, but my spirit feels refreshed, renewed,” she added.
The issue is inspired by homecoming, heritage, personal spaces, and community, concepts that pervade in this beloved season. Filipino Christmas traditions is the focal point in an editorial shot by Colin Dancel and styled by David Milan, framed by an essay by author Ige Ramos.
“From the early morning calls to prayer at Simbang Gabi to the joyful gatherings of Noche Buena, each custom reflects deep-rooted values of faith, community, generosity, and love,” he wrote.
Also in this issue: Civil rights activist and astronaut Amanda Nguyen shares her fight for all women; the closets of Monet Recio Schemm and Jason Dhakal; Mary Katrantzou’s debut collection for Bulgari; Robby Sylianteng and the First United Building’s creative rebirth; Leah Puyat’s thoughts on girlhood; and a colorful holiday wish list.
Meanwhile, Donny Pangilinan is on the cover of Vogue Man Philippines. In the cover feature, he said he loves being part of change.
“I’m in a position to help improve the lives of others around me and those who don't have the same privilege and have so much potential to be so much more. I love that I can be a vessel,” he said.
“Being part of change in general will always be something that I look for and be hungry for when I do anything. I love seeing other people happy, especially the ones I love,” he added.
Other stories of change and new chapters in the magazine include: A new fashion vocabulary is expressed in Rajo Laurel’s new men’s collection, which fleshes out his creative process and a renewed sense of exploration; the lessons that Michael Concepcion learned in his life’s journey, which is now rooted in family.
“Time and traditions overlap, creating an outward ring of familiar events, each year more layered than the last,” wrote editor-in-chief Bea Valdes. “Our histories are told in a spectrum of Balikbayan boxes, in the changing versions of our hanging Parols, in the shifting chill of Simbang Gabi. This season opens a gateway to ritual and nostalgia, drawing us back to places that remember us as children — once small and sacred.”
MANILA, Philippines — Atty. Mary Louise Reyes confirmed that her client Rufa Mae Quinto has a warrant of arrest.
In a report by "24 Oras," Reyes said that Quinto is charged with 14 counts of violations of Section 8 of the Securities Regulation Code in relation to the issue of Dermacare, the same company involved with the incarceration of former actress Neri Naig-Miranda.
Quinto, however, is not facing an Estafa complaint, unlike Neri, so she can post bail.
"She will face those charges... mag-voluntary surrender siya and magpo-post po kami ng bail for that. She's worried kasi hindi naman totoo 'yung allegations kasi my client po is just a brand ambassador, a model-endorser," Reyes said.
"Ni hindi sa kanya nakapagbayad ng down payment, tapos 'yung mga tseke po puro tumalbog. Lahat po 'yan hawak naman po namin 'yung ebidensya, ipe-present namin sa court," she added.
Neri was arrested in a mall in Pasay City last November 23.
The arrest warrant was reportedly served for Neri because of 14 counts of violation of Securities Regulation Code. Bail was set at P126,000.00 for each of the counts, amounting to over P1.7 million or almost P2 million in total, but the Estafa case has no stated bail.
S. A. W. A. Thick smoke was seen after a phreatomagmatic eruption of Taal Volcano at 5:58 a.m. on Tuesday, December 3. Phivolcs is gradually becoming Alert Level 1 in areas around the volcano. (TMN)
As Unang Hirit celebrates its 25th anniversary, the program expresses its heartfelt gratitude to its loyal viewers.
The hosts of Unang Hirit
This December, Unang Hirit commemorates a remarkable achievement — 25 years of bringing joy and energy to Filipino mornings.
As the nation’s longest-running morning show, it has transcended its role as merely a television program; rather, it has woven itself into the fabric of everyday life for countless Filipinos.
From its vibrant segments featuring news, entertainment, and lifestyle tips to its engaging discussions on current events, Unang Hirit has consistently provided viewers with a blend of information and positivity.
The show has become a treasured ritual in many households, with hosts who have built a deep connection with their audience over the years. As they celebrate this significant milestone, Unang Hirit continues to shine brightly, embodying the warmth and resilience of the Filipino spirit.
Since 1999, the program has been a trusted morning companion, enriching millions of lives with reliable news, meaningful public service, and engaging entertainment.
"25 taon na kaming naghahatid ng mga balita at mga sorpresa. Maraming salamat sa mga kasama naming gumigising ng madaling araw. Bahagi na ng aming buhay ang magpasaya sa inyo, magbigay ng pag-asa at maging alarm clock ninyo sa umaga at source ng mahahalagang impormasyon," said GMA Public Affairs pillar Arnold "Igan" Clavio. "Mula noon hanggang ngayon, walang pagbabago. Ang mauna kayo sa lahat ang dala-dala naming pangako hanggang sa susunod na 25 taon."
Susan Enriquez thanked the dedicated fans who have been there for Unang Hirit. "Maraming salamat po sa inyong pagtangkilik. Ang 25 years po ng Unang Hirit ay dahil po sa inyo, dahil po sa inyong pagsubaybay sa amin. Kaya maraming maraming salamat. Sana, 25 years pa ‘yung dumating."
On the set of Unang Hiri
Filipino mornings with Unang Hirit
For a quarter of a century, Unang Hirit has been setting the pace for Philippine morning television—creating trends, sparking conversations, and shaping the cultural landscape. From its early days to its continued success, it has remained a trusted and loyal companion in Filipino homes, delivering relevant, meaningful, and impactful content.
"Thank you for letting us be a part of your lives for 25 years," Lyn Ching said. I hope you keep tuning in every morning with the barkada!"
Lyn said the Unang Hirit team feels like a second family to her.
"We're a big family. May tampuhan din but it never gets big. It never becomes an issue," she said.
Arnold elaborated that the team consistently demonstrates strong camaraderie and mutual support, always ready to help one another through challenges and celebrate successes together.
"Suportahan kami. Lalo na parang ako ang tinuturing nila na padre de pamilya, kuya or tatay. So hindi ko talaga hahayaan na magka ganun ang samahan," the popular broadcaster said.
The hosts of Unang Hirit attend the UH Media Day at Gateway 2 in Araneta City
In June, Igan suffered a hemorrhagic stroke. He believes that the UH Team helped him recover quickly.
"Hindi pa siya 100 percent (fully recovered). Kagaya ng dati, talagang may problem ako sa mga step, sa stairs. Kaya lagi akong dikit sa wall. Six months dapat ang rehabilitation ko ginawa kong three months lang.
"Then tinawagan ko na sila (sa GMA). Sabi ko gusto ko ng bumalik. Nangyari ito June to August. Parang ibang energy ang naitutulong niya sa akin para bumalik yung dating ako," said Arnold.
Anjo Pertierra, who joined the morning show in July 2023, recalled how the show rescued him when floods submerged his home in Marikina in July due to super typhoon Carina.
"Una kong tinawagan si Daddy Igan. Sabi ko Dy, baka pwedeng pa rescue kasi ang taas na ng tubig eh," said Anjo. And the rest is history. "Sana umabot pa ako ng 100 years."
To celebrate this incredible 25-year journey, Unang Hirit is pulling out all the stops with a week-long anniversary special filled with exciting segments, surprises, and tributes to its legacy.
Celebrate National Unang Hirit Day
The grand celebration will culminate on National Unang Hirit Day, Dec. 6, 2024 — marking exactly 25 years since the program first aired. On this special day, fans, communities, and partners from all over the country will come together to celebrate everything Unang Hirit stands for.
Expect exciting on-ground activities, massive giveaways, and public service initiatives that embody the heart of Unang Hirit. Whether in Luzon, Visayas, or Mindanao, surprises await every Kapuso, making it a day filled with joy, shared memories, and love.
Undas crew: Chef JR Royol, Jenzel Angeles, Kim Perez, and Sean Lucas with Suzi Abrera.
Even bigger surprises
Ahead of the big anniversary celebration, Unang Hirit launched the wildly popular Sorpresa Bente Singko series, offering viewers unbelievable deals—like rice for just 25 pesos per kilo or LPG for only 25 pesos. But the surprises didn’t stop there—many of these essentials were given away completely free.
During its anniversary week, Unang Hirit is taking this fan-favorite campaign to the next level. Get ready for bigger surprises and nationwide giveaways as Sorpresa Bente Singko continues to bring excitement and blessings to Filipino families.
An iconic theme song reimagined
What’s a celebration without music? Unang Hirit will unveil a newly arranged version of its iconic theme song as part of the festivities. This special rendition will be performed live by the legendary Jose Mari Chan, alongside rising star Zephanie and powerhouse vocalist Mark Bautista. The trio will bring a fresh, modern take on the classic tune—a fitting tribute to 25 unforgettable years.
Adding to the nostalgia, the beloved Sexbomb Dancers celebrating their 25th anniversary will reunite for a special performance. Celebrities, influencers, and other personalities are also set to join the week-long celebration, making it a celebration to remember.
"As somebody na nag-umpisa sa Unang Hirit, 25 years ago, from day 1, you can just imagine the feels that I have. I am so excited," said Suzi Entrata-Abrera.
Suzi added: "Medyo na-e-emotional nga ako minsan kasi silver anniversary. Who would've thought 25 years later we're still doing this? At na-a-appreciate pa rin kami ng manood kaya maraming maraming salamat sa inyong lahat sa pagtangkilik ng 25 years. At sa lahat ng taong dumaan sa show na ito on cam, lalo na 'yung off cam at pinaganda nang husto ang Unang Hirit, maraming maraming salamat sa inyo."
A legacy of trust and loyalty
What makes Unang Hirit truly special is the deep bond it shares with its viewers.
"Ang pinaka nakaka-proud being part of this show, is when people walk up to you and tell you, 'Estudyante pa lang po ako, pinapanood ko na kayo. Ngayon po may trabaho na ako, kayo pa rin ang pinapanood ko,” shared Ivan Mayrina.
"It's a big honor para sa'kin na pinatuloy tayo ng mga Kapuso natin sa kanilang mga tahanan tuwing umaga at naging parte tayo ng buhay nila. Sana maging parte pa rin tayo ng buhay nila for as long as we can. Hangga't kaya namin, nandito kami sa Unang Hirit para sa inyo," Ivan said.
As Unang Hirit celebrates its 25th anniversary, the program expresses its heartfelt gratitude to its loyal viewers. This milestone is a tribute to the trust, love, and steadfast support the show has received.
