SURVIVING WITHOUT CELLPHONE?

I remember the time, when one of my first Japanese friends kept on complaining, why I didn't operate a cellphone. Believe me, during that time, sometime in 2000 or 2001, I was even typing my articles on an old typewriter from Germany.

My Japanese friend then bought me a computer - and a cellphone! Some other friends congratulated me: "Welcome back to the world!"

Now we are living in May 2025.

Last Sunday, I really got mad. Attending mass, I observed a family (father, mother, boy and girl) keeping on using their cellphones during almost the whole ongoing mass. Heaven forbid! Even while falling in line receiving the holy communion, the father kept on texting and browsing Facebook. Step by step. Just in front of me! Heaven forbid! Guys, why are you still attending mass? Later on, the children kept on playing video games... .

Sometimes, I observed (business-)people operating with two or even more cellphones at the same time. Even while taking lunch in a restaurant. I asked them: "How did you survive doing business before without these units?" Believe me or not. The answers have been mostly: I really don't know!

Doing business nowadays without a cellphone? Even in a very private life? Many people can't imagine it anymore. I can! Though Philippines' cellphone companies really provide us with the widest distribution and the broadest coverage to very affordable charges. I really enjoy, for example, the unlimited call experience - just to mention one. But, not at any time!

But then it happened! I thought I had lost my cellphone. I panic, losing all my important connections. This "thing" really has a special meaning for me. And here we are: not only for business. Just even for a short "Hi - kumusta ka?" I really felt lonely!

.

A couple of hours later, I found IT. Misplaced somewhere in the bathroom under a towel in a silent mood. Four miscalls (yipee!), several text messages. Not only "Hi - kumusta ka?" A special evening meeting had to be confirmed... .

Allow me to quote Philippine Star columnist Igan D'Bayan, who wrote a couple of years ago: "We don't speak like Hamlet any more. Most of us speak Taglish and write in Filipinized English. And while holding a mobile phone, we type '2b or not 2b'. And that's supposition!"

Btw ('by the way'), during night time, I turn off my cell phone. How about you? And, I really get mad if my students keep on using their "machine" during class.... .

Alert your family, friends and sports club/society members when you can, and tell them how to reach you in emergencies. Make plans with friends and family in detail ahead of time. Do something different with the time you'd usually spend on your phone – read, go for a walk, go to the gym, study, cook. So do I.

All reactions:

1Klaus Doring

Mothers take the spotlight at this event centered on empowerment and connection

 

Get ready to celebrate, mga nanay! Kamay ni Nanay is bringing a special treat to all the amazing mothers out there with “Araw ni Nanay—A Celebration of Love, Care, and Opportunity.” This exciting event, powered by Kamay ni Nanay, will transform SM City Sta. Mesa into a Mother's Day wonderland on May 18, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

TV actress Dianne Medina-Ilustre will host the day, guiding participants through a heartwarming program packed with fun and inspiration. This isn’t just your ordinary event—it’s a full-blown celebration of everything that makes mothers so special.

Here's a sneak peek:

Wisdom for nanay

Top speakers will share their expertise on topics close to every mom's heart. Dr. Emehly Sevilla of Vine Aesthetics will give the lowdown on self-care (because moms need pampering too!). MK Bertulfo of FH Moms will help the audience navigate the digital world, and MJ Aspacio of CityDanse Academy will reveal how art can work wonders for kids.

Dra. Em Sevilla

Entertainment galore

Audiences are in for a treat with a lineup of heartwarming and awe-inspiring performances. The much-anticipated “Haphow Musical” takes center stage—not just as a show, but as a moving experience that encourages reflection on life, love, and the values we hold close. Adding grace and charm to the program, Sophie and Herbie’s ballet performance will enchant guests with elegance. The celebration continues with appearances by other talented special guests, and to make the moment even more magical, singer-director Jeffrey Hidalgo will serenade the crowd with his soulful voice.

Real talk with real moms

Don't miss the panel discussion featuring Pamela Joy Estonilo-Lumagbas, the powerhouse CEO behind Kamay ni Nanay, along with other inspiring women. They’ll dive into everything from baby care to building a business—and how to keep your sanity in the process. Panelists include Leanne Dela Cruz of K Gold Beauty, Kristina Po of Shinjiru Wellness Trading Corp., Antonette Del Rosario, one of Kamay ni Nanay’s brand ambassadors, Dra. Em Sevilla, MK Bertulfo, and MJ Aspacio.

Mode Devi events team

Celebrating nanay’s stories

Get ready for touching and unforgettable moments as we recognize the inspiring winners of the “Cutest Baby” and “Best Aruga Mom” contests, as well as the heartfelt entries in the “Testimonial Contest.” The event will also celebrate the achievements of the Top 5 Kamay ni Nanay Affiliates—women whose dedication and compassion truly embody the spirit of a nanay.

Freebies and fun all day

Of course, there will be booths and activities where participants can snag freebies, discover new products, and simply have a great time. These booth activities will be open and available throughout the day.

Kamay ni Nanay is here for all mothers, their families, and anyone who wants to join in the love. This is your chance to celebrate the heart of every home and honor the incredible contributions of our nanay.

For more details and updates, be sure to check out Kamay ni Nanay's Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok pages.

Be cyber safe; fight digital fraud

 

By Manila Bulletin

Published May 09, 2025 00:05 am

Suspected fraud rate affecting digital transactions of Filipinos was at 13.4 percent in 2024, placing the Philippines at an alarming second place behind India (19 percent) and ahead of the Dominican Republic (10.9 percent).

To underscore this, global risk information provider TransUnion reported that over seven in every 10 or 74 percent of Filipinos said they had been targeted by fraudsters through email, online, phone call, or text messaging between November and December 2024. This is much higher than the 53 percent across 18 countries and regions surveyed. In the same survey period, 34 percent of Filipinos claimed to have lost money due to any of the above schemes, higher than the 29 percent global rate.

This unsettling development poses a serious threat not only to our national security and economy but to the daily lives of millions of Filipinos. While we continue embracing digital transformation—from e-commerce and digital banking to online government services—we must also confront its dark side: the rise in cybercrime.

We must take note that digital fraud manifests in various forms—phishing, identity theft, online scams, and financial fraud, among others. The impact is far-reaching. Businesses lose revenue, investors become wary, the government’s credibility is weakened, and ordinary Filipinos find their hard-earned savings and personal data compromised. If left unchecked, this epidemic of digital fraud could undermine the very progress we strive for in becoming a modern, digital-ready nation. And this is not a problem any one sector can solve alone. Combating digital fraud demands a united front, with the government, private sector, and citizens all playing active roles in building a secure digital environment.

The government must take the lead by strengthening legislation and enforcement. While laws like the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 exist, they must evolve rapidly alongside new digital threats. A more proactive stance is necessary—one that includes a centralized cybercrime task force, increased funding for digital infrastructure security, and swift prosecution of offenders. Equally important is nationwide public education on digital safety, ensuring that every Filipino, from students to senior citizens, understands how to protect themselves online.

The private sector, particularly those in fintech, e-commerce, and telecommunications, has an equally critical responsibility. Businesses must invest in advanced cybersecurity systems, regularly update their defenses, and be transparent with their users about potential threats. Collaborating with government agencies to share data and intelligence about fraud patterns can help create a nationwide security network. In the long run, maintaining consumer trust and investor confidence is impossible without robust digital safeguards.

But even the most comprehensive laws and sophisticated systems will fall short if the public remains unaware or complacent. We must keep in mind that digital fraud is real. We must not allow ourselves to be caught in the web of digital fraud. Every Filipino must take digital responsibility seriously. This means exercising caution when clicking links, securing passwords, reporting suspicious activity, and continuously learning about online threats. A single careless click can compromise an entire network. Conversely, one informed user can stop a scam from spreading.

Unity is our strongest defense. Be wary, the battle against digital fraud is a whole-of-nation responsibility. It demands a concerted effort and a shared commitment to security, integrity, and vigilance. Just as we unite in times of natural disasters or public health crises, we must now rally as a nation against this digital epidemic.

Beyond being a technology problem, digital fraud is an economic threat, a business liability, and a personal threat to everyone. But with coordinated action, mutual trust, and a spirit of bayanihan, we can protect our digital future. Opt for collective action over silence, vigilance over vulnerability, and unity over division.

Roman Catholic, We have our new POPE! Pope Leo XIV.

𝐏𝐎𝐏𝐄 𝐋𝐄𝐎 𝐗𝐈𝐕: 𝐀 𝐁𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐅 𝐁𝐈𝐎𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐏𝐇𝐘

On the 8th of May, history was made in the Church. From the heart of the Sistine Chapel, white smoke rose again — and this time, it announced the election of Robert Cardinal Prevost as the new pope. He takes the name Pope Leo XIV, becoming the 267th Successor of Saint Peter.

He was born in Chicago, USA, on September 14, 1955. As a young man, he studied mathematics and later joined the Order of Saint Augustine, eventually becoming a priest in 1982. But his journey didn’t stop in America. He left for Peru, where he served the people as a missionary for many years and even became a Peruvian citizen.

Over time, he rose through the ranks: from rector, to bishop, to one of the most influential leaders in the Church. He later became Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, a role that put him in charge of helping the pope choose bishops from around the world.

And now — the call came.

After four rounds of voting, the cardinals turned to him. He stepped out quietly, not with noise or drama, but with a calm heart ready to serve. Many are already calling him a blend of strength and gentleness. A man shaped by mission and simplicity.

The world watches. The Church prays. A new chapter begins.

Source: Vatican News, May 8, 2025

PH Airports Update: eTravel May Be Replaced Soon | Scams again?!

✈️ Philippine Travel Update: eTravel may be replaced, terminal fees are going up, and some travelers are reporting scams at NAIA. Here’s what you need to know before your next flight. All passengers bound for the Philippines must register to E-TRAVEL: https://etravel.gov.ph/ 📍 If you’re 50 years old or over and want a visa to stay long-term in the Philippines, check out this website: https://www.srrvguide.com/ 🧷Foreign Tourists, except those covered by Balikbayan Privilege, may be required by airlines upon check in to show an onward/exit ticket within 30 days of arrival. You may rent a ticket here to satisfy this requirement for just $16: https://onwardticket.com/jennifer 🤑Sending money to the Philippines? This is what I personally use for quick transfers: https://www.worldremit.com/en/r/JENNI... The first transfer is FREE plus you get a $20 voucher! The links above are affiliate codes/links. This means I may get a reward at no additional cost to you when you use them. Thanks in advance because it helps support the channel :) Hey there! I'm Jennifer Terri from Tagum City, Philippines. Since June 2020, I've been your go-to gal for all things Philippine Travel News & Updates on YouTube.

Here’s your chance to meet Marian Rivera—and celebrate Filipino fashion at the same time

Kultura’s Burda at Habi pop-up series launches at SM Mall of Asia

By MB Lifestyle

Published May 07, 2025 21:05 pm | Updated May 07, 2025 21:12 pm

In today’s fast-paced world, where everything is becoming increasingly disposable, it’s more important than ever to honor our craftsmanship and weaving traditions—those that root us in our heritage and so elegantly tell our story. In continued celebration of Filipino culture through fashion, Kultura launches Burda at Habi: The Artistry of Filipino Fashion, a year-long pop-up series. Kicking off on May 5 at Kultura, SM Store in Mall of Asia, this exciting campaign casts a modern lens on our traditional wear—Filipiniana and barong—showcasing how heritage pieces can be both timeless and incredibly wearable today.

Filipiniana for modern times

Whether you're a longtime advocate or exploring Filipiniana for the first time, Kultura’s pop-up series offers the perfect opportunity to build a meaningful wardrobe with iconic pieces that reflect your personal style.

Burda at Habi proudly presents a collection that celebrates the traditional crafts of embroidery (burda) and weaving (habi)—techniques that define the modern barong and Filipiniana. From gossamer local fabrics and handloomed textiles to dream-inspired patterns and intricate embroidery, the collection merges tradition with updated silhouettes and details. It’s a showcase of Filipino artistry, reimagined for today’s style-conscious audience.

With a wide range of formal and casual styles, as well as handcrafted bags and accessories to complete the look, you'll find standout pieces for every occasion—be it everyday wear, special celebrations, or even Independence Day dressing. Each piece is beautifully infused with heritage and craft, making it a sustainable fashion investment you’ll treasure for years.

Pop-up locations

The main Burda at Habi pop-up runs at Kultura, SM Store in Mall of Asia until May 20, 2025, with the official launch event happening on May 8, headlined by Kultura ambassador Marian Rivera. Shoppers can expect a curated selection of Filipiniana and barong styles from in-house brands like Raffaella, Nuevo Ystilo, and EN Barong.

Guest brands such as Alixia Marie, Anmari, Azucar, Binibini Marikit, Daryl Maat, Matthew and Melka, Mjorian, Pamanna Jewellery, and Pampinay will also be available at the Mall of Asia pop-up.

Succeeding pop-ups will take place at Kultura branches in SM Baguio, SM Sta. Rosa, SM Iloilo, and SM Southmall from May 29 to June 12, 2025, showcasing a thoughtfully curated lineup of traditional and contemporary fashion pieces from Kultura’s in-house collections.

Meet-and-greet with Marian Rivera

With her regal charm and deep appreciation for local craftsmanship, Marian Rivera perfectly embodies the modern Filipina muse. She will headline the official launch on May 8 at 2 p.m. at Kultura, SM Store, Mall of Asia, where she will host a meet-and-greet and tour the space.

The first 50 customers with a minimum purchase of P3,000 at Kultura (SM Store, Mall of Asia) from May 6 to 8 will receive an exclusive autographed Kultura fan and the chance to meet Marian Rivera in person. Guests must bring both the signed fan and their purchase receipt to join the meet-and-greet on May 8.

The launch will also be attended by members of the media, select personalities, and modern Filipiniana enthusiasts, adding to the energy and excitement of this milestone event.

Through the Burda at Habi pop-up series, Kultura celebrates Filipino craftsmanship, supports local artisans, preserves traditional techniques, and brings heritage fashion to a wider audience.

For updates, follow @kulturafilipino on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.

Falsche Rentenbescheide sorgen für Ärger – Experte rät zur Kontrolle

Stand:06.05.2025, 20:28 Uhr

Von: Olivia Kowalak

 Fast die Hälfte aller Rentenbescheide in Deutschland sind fehlerhaft. Jahrelang erhalten Rentner dadurch weniger Geld. Rentenberater raten daher zu einer umfassenden Prüfung.

Dresden – Ruheständler sollten Arbeitgebern und der Deutschen Rentenversicherung (DRV) nicht bedingungslos vertrauen. Denn bei der Berechnung der Rentenbescheide schleichen sich immer wieder Fehler ein. Experten raten daher zu gründlicher Prüfung, da falsche Berechnungen fast immer zulasten der Rentner gehen und jahrelang den Rentenbezug schmälern können. 

Fast 50 Prozent der deutschen Rentenbescheide sind fehlerhaft

Im Jahr 2024 ergaben Stichproben des Bundesversicherungsamtes, dass etwa 30 Prozent bis 50 Prozent der Rentenbescheide Fehler enthielten. Diese Zahl wird auch von Rentenberatern untermauert. „Von den Bescheiden, die wir kontrollieren, sind rund 40 Prozent falsch“, sagte der Dresdener Rentenberater Christian Lindner dem Tagesspiegel. 

Ende 2023 erhielten in Deutschland fast acht Millionen Menschen eine Rente unter der Grundsicherung von 950 Euro. Im vergangenen Jahr erreichte die Zahl der Rentner, die auf Sozialhilfe angewiesen sind, ein Rekordhoch. Treten also Fehler in Rentenbescheiden auf, kann dies zu erheblichen finanziellen Nachteilen für Betroffenen führen. Selbst wenn die berechnete Summe nur geringfügig abweicht, summieren sich erhebliche Geldbeträge nach Monaten.

Fehler durch Mensch und Software: Auf diese Fehlerquellen sollten Rentner achten

„Man kann sich nicht darauf verlassen, dass der Rentenbescheid richtig ist“, warnt der Experte Lindner beim Erhalt des Rentenbescheids. Fehler passieren einerseits, weil Menschen an der Bearbeitung beteiligt sind, auch Arbeitgebern würden Pannen passieren. Softwarefehler sorgten außerdem dafür, dass bestimmte Meldungen bei der Rentenversicherung nicht ankämen. „Plötzlich fehlt ein Jahr im Versicherungsverlauf“, so 

Rentner sollten ihre Rentenbescheide immer gründlich überprüfen - auch von Experten. © Wolfilser/imago

Ruheständler sollten gleich nach Erhalt des Rentenbescheids eine umfassende Prüfung vornehmen. en haben bereits teilgenommen

• Fehler bei Anrechnungszeiten (Ausbildungszeiten, Auslandsaufenthalten)
• Witwen- und Witwerrenten: Fehler bei der Einkommensanrechnung, insbesondere bei Selbstständigen
• Frührente: Falsche Berechnung von Teilrenten oder Verlängerungen von Erwerbsminderungsrenten
• Unfallrente: Fehlerhafte Verrechnung mit Altersrenten, insbesondere bei hohen Unfallrenten
• Pflegezeiten: Rentenbeiträge für die Pflege eines Angehörigen werden oft nicht korrekt berücksichtigt
• Nicht korrekt angerechnete DDR-Rente
• Fehler bei Berechnung von Versorgungsausgleich nach Scheidungen
• Fehler bei Kalkulation der Erwerbsminderungsrente
• Fehler bei Anrechnung der Freiwillige Beitragszahlungen 

Fehler beim Rentenbescheid: Hinzuziehen von Rentenberatern ratsam

Einige Fehler lassen selbst überprüfen, wie Rentenexperte Lindner erklärt: „Man kann vergleichen, ob die Meldungen der Arbeitgeber und der Versicherungsverlauf übereinstimmen“. Jedoch sind nicht alle Fehler für den Laien sichtbar, beispielsweise fehlerhafte Rechtsanwendung. „Solche Fehler entdecken Laien nicht. Da ist es schon ratsam, einen Rentenberater hinzuzuziehen“, fügte er im Interview mit dem Tagesspiegel hinzu. 

Sollte auf einem Rentenbescheid erst Jahre später ein Fehler selbst oder durch einen Experten entdeckt worden sein, dann erfolgt eine Nachzahlung – allerdings nur rückwirkend für vier Jahre. „Man sollte trotzdem nicht zu lange warten. Wenn sich nach 15 Jahren herausstellt, dass Ihre Rente zu niedrig ist, haben Sie elf Jahre verschenkt“, so der Rat von Lindner.

Günstigere Rentenberatung durch Sozialverband Deutschland

Das Honorar von Rentenspezialist Lindner fällt allerdings nicht ganz billig aus. Ab 150 Euro aufwärts, berechnet er für eine fachgerechte Prüfung des Rentenbescheids. Die Kosten müssen dabei von Betroffenen selbst getragen werden. Eine Beratung beim Sozialverband Deutschland (SoVD) fällt dagegen etwas günstiger aus. Mit Zahlung eines monatlichen Beitrags von unter zehn Euro können Mitglieder Beratungen kostenlos in Anspruch nehmen.

Der Rente-Newsletter: Wege in die Frührente

Wichtige Entwicklungen rund um Ihre Rente erhalten Sie wöchentlich am Mittwoch

Mit Klick auf den Button "Zum Newsletter anmelden" stimme ich den Datenschutzbestimmungen und dem Erhalt weiterer Medienangebote zu.

Innerhalb eines Monats kann gegen den Rentenbescheid ein formloser Widerspruch eingereicht werden. Dieser sollte allerdings gut begründet sein und durch entsprechende Dokumente ausreichend belegt werden. Auch nach Ablauf der Frist kann ein Überprüfungsantrag zur Einleitung eines Korrekturverfahrens gestellt werden. Während Kosten für das Widerspruchverfahren und einer eventuellen Klage vor dem Sozialgericht von der Rentenversicherung getragen werden, müssen die Kosten für den Rechtsbeistand bei einem nachträglichen Korrekturverfahren selbst getragen werden.