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The European Union (EU) announced that it is providing €500,000 (approximately P33 million) in humanitarian aid to help the victims of the recent typhoons and floods in the Philippines. The EU said the funding “will help address the most pressing needs of people in the hardest hit areas of Calabarzon and Central Luzon, notably communities in hard-to-reach areas.” Read more |
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Leptospirosis has reached its epidemic threshold in Quezon City, with 43 new cases recorded in just seven days from July 24 to 30, health officials there reported last Sunday.
“Epidemic threshold” refers to the value used by epediomologist to determine if an infectious disease will spread further or die out.
In fact, the Department of Health is now on the alert as it anticipates a rise in leptospirosis cases due to the rainfall and flooding caused by three recent tropical cyclones and the southwest monsoon.
But even before this year, the disease has shown an increasing trend nationwide since an outbreak in 2020, according an article published in November 2023 in the Annals of Medicine & Surgery.
To appreciate how quickly the cases increased, the article pointed out that there 182 cases recorded in 2020, 1,661 in, 2021, and 2,794 in 2022.
Here’s an excerpt from the abstract of that article:
Leptospirosis is prevalent in the Philippines due to its location in the tropics along the typhoon belt. Outbreaks typically occur after floods or heavy rainfall in flood-prone places like Metro Manila.
Therefore, leptospirosis epidemics in urban areas have been linked to the growth of slum areas, inadequate waste management, heavy rainfall, and flooding.
These factors create ecological conditions that facilitate the spread of rat-borne diseases.
in rural areas, leptospirosis is described as an occupational illness among agricultural and animal workers in rural settings.
Note the phrases “growth of slum areas” and “inadequate waste management.” Government officials have regularly blamed them for causing floods, which in turn spreads the Leptospira bacteria.
Clearly, those two urban problems need government action — not only to curb leptospirosis cases but to solve a host of other problems as well.
Meanwhile, as that action may take a long time coming, here are two articles you may want to consult first to avoid the disease.
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By Fr. Roy Cimagala
Chaplain
Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE)
Talamban, Cebu City
Email: roycimagala@gmail.com
WHILE logic will always have an important role to play in our life, we should also realize that logic alone cannot cope with all the realities that we have to deal with in our life. Our logic can only work within the natural plane and our human level. It can hardly manage to take on realities that are spiritual and supernatural, let alone, divine wisdom which in the end should always guide us.
How can human logic, for example, understand such Christian teachings as to love our enemies, to die in order to live, to be the last in order to be the first, the master has to be first a servant, a virgin giving birth, etc.? That’s when our logic would just be kaput.
To be guided by human logic alone unavoidably would lead us to be judgmental and self-righteous. This was what happened to some of the leading Jews during Christ’s time. Lacking in humility, their faith was undermined and they ended up not only misjudging Christ but also crucifying him.
We have to be humble enough to acknowledge that our logic-certainties can never cope with the mysteries of life. No matter how objective and scientific these certainties are derived, no matter how deep and exhaustive our philosophies, theologies and ideologies are made, our certainties just cannot take all the mysteries in our life.
Even in the world of nature where in theory we have the capacity to know things conclusively, we often find ourselves in situations of tentativeness and even of outright error. That is why we are always in the process of discoveries and we would not know when we can end it, that is to say, when we can say that we have known everything to be known in the world of nature.
This does not mean that our certainties can never know the truth, even the absolute, and not just relative, truths. Yes, we can, but the best that we can do is to project ourselves to infinite possibilities, because even the absolute truths are not things that are frozen. They are always dynamic.
Our logical certainties can only tackle some aspects and levels of the reality that is proper to us. We need to realize more deeply that we have to contend not only with natural and even spiritual realities but also with supernatural realities that simply are above our nature to know, unless some revelation is made which should be corresponded to with our act of belief.
Indeed, we have to be truly humble to acknowledge this fact of life and behave accordingly. While we can know some aspects of the truth, we can never say that we know everything. Not even our mathematical precision and scientific accuracy can warrant us to claim that we know everything.
That is why we need to be most careful with our judgments. We have to judge fairly, that is, with love of God and neighbor as the main motive for judging. From the Book of Leviticus, we read: “You shall not act dishonestly in rendering judgment. Show neither partiality to the weak nor deference to the mighty, but judge your fellow men justly.” (19,15)
If we have love for God and neighbor as the main motive for judging, we would know what to say, how to say it, and when to say it. And somehow, we can manage to judge all things, just as St. Paul once said: “He that is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.” (1 Cor 2,15)
By Manila Bulletin
Published Aug 2, 2025 12:05 am
Cameras have the power to humble the arrogant and hold the powerful accountable. We have seen many instances where abusive motorists and traffic enforcers, rude government clerks, or even VIPs bypassing rules have been caught red-handed. For the public, the lens can be a form of justice.
It can also be the source of witnessing situations we would never have the chance to see if CCTVs were not perched somewhere up there. Among these — an angry motorist pulling out his gun and shooting a person; an SUV "running amok" crashing onto vehicles, speeding through the highway and finally causing a gas station fire; random people walking in the midst of crawling traffic and divesting a truck of its valuable cargo.
In today’s hyperconnected world, it often feels like someone is always watching. From CCTV units on every street corner to camera phones in every hand, a person is constantly in the lens of a camera — sometimes knowingly, often not. In many cases, this has brought good results.
Public officials, once emboldened by anonymity or power, now act with more caution, aware that even the smallest indiscretion could be recorded, uploaded, and go viral within minutes. Arrogant citizens who break the law, bully traffic enforcers, or who run away from the scene of a crime are caught on street CCTV — or on curious citizens’ phones — and get penalized by the authorities.
There have been many videos that became viral on social media that have shown images of people in questionable situations, like the image of online gaming on a mobile phone screen. Whether or not these images were real, manipulated, or came from an email inbox, these triggered public outrage.
The clip became a rallying point for renewed calls to ban or heavily regulate online gaming and other forms of digital gambling, which have reportedly led to personal bankruptcies, domestic conflict, and addiction. In this case, the camera has sparked debates on regulating online gambling.
But technology is also a double-edged sword. And there is a deeper concern here – privacy. As much as we value the ability to call out misconduct, we must also be mindful of the growing invasion of private spaces especially while in public places. Everyday citizens are increasingly vulnerable to being filmed during unguarded moments — at work, on public transport, in elevators, even in what they assumed were private conversations. These clips, often uploaded without consent, can lead to online shaming, damage or reputations, and even legal trouble.
What, then, can we do?
First, we must educate ourselves and others about digital privacy and the laws that protect privacy.
Second, we must urge the government to create clearer policies on surveillance, facial recognition, and data retention. Who owns the data? Who ensures it won’t be misused? These are questions still largely unanswered.
Third, we must hold ourselves accountable. Not every viral clip deserves to be shared. The dignity of others — even those we disagree with — should not be sacrificed for clicks.
Technology is not inherently good or evil. It reflects the values of those who use it. As cameras become more present in our daily lives, let us use them responsibly — protecting the truth, upholding accountability, and defending each other’s right to be human.
Because someone is always watching. The question is: for what purpose?
Gabbi Garcia swears by this Filipino brand for her everyday elegant look
By MBrand
Published Aug 2, 2025 09:50 am
Alberto, the beloved Filipino lifestyle brand known for its chic, comfortable, and high-quality footwear and bags, proudly welcomes Gabbi Garcia as its first-ever female brand ambassador. This exciting partnership kicks off a new era for the brand as it celebrates “35 Years of Everyday Elegance” in 2025—signaling a bold evolution for the trusted homegrown name.
Welcoming Gabbi into the Alberto family felt like the most natural step forward. “We chose Gabbi because she truly reflects what Alberto is all about,” shared Alberto Gaerlan, the brand’s namesake and founder. “As we mark our 35th year with the ‘Everyday Elegance’ campaign, we wanted someone who embodies timeless beauty, effortless style, and that unique Filipina charm—qualities at the heart of our brand.” Gabbi’s vibrant, down-to-earth personality and her sense of style—both classic and current—make her a perfect match for Alberto.
For Gabbi Garcia, joining the brand feels like a full-circle moment. “I grew up seeing Alberto stores in the mall, so when the opportunity came, it really felt full circle,” she said. “I love that they’re a proudly Filipino brand that’s been around for years.” Gabbi also expressed her admiration for the brand’s authenticity, rooted in Filipino values like family, craftsmanship, and accessibility—all while staying current with fashion trends.
This collaboration marks a meaningful new chapter in Alberto’s story, highlighting the brand’s evolution and forward-looking direction. Since 1990, Alberto has been part of Filipinos’ everyday lives. Now, as it celebrates its 35th year in 2025, the homegrown label steps into a new era—staying true to its heritage of everyday elegance while embracing contemporary trends and the style and spirit of today’s modern, dynamic working class.
“Our partnership with Gabbi represents this evolution, as we continue to introduce fresh collections that blend timeless appeal with contemporary trends,” Gaerlan added.
Gabbi describes her style as “effortless and evolving,” which perfectly aligns with Alberto’s collection. “I like to be chic when I want, comfy when I need. I choose pieces that feel like ‘me’ but are also functional,” she said. She values the brand for being stylish without trying too hard—and versatile enough for both glam moments and everyday errands. Comfort and quality are her top priorities: “I always choose comfort and craftsmanship—cute alone isn’t enough. I move a lot, so I need pieces that keep up without sacrificing style.”
Her current favorites include Alberto’s strappy kitten heels, praised for their comfort and elegance, and a suede bag she finds chic and easy to style.
“Alberto fits into everyday life—whether at work, on weekends, or casual days. There’s an Alberto for every Filipina. I want them to see how these pieces can elevate their style without feeling intimidating,” Gabbi shared.
Shoppers can look forward to exciting things from this collaboration, including exclusive collections and new product drops that bring the brand’s vision of “everyday elegance” to life with a fresh twist. Expect standout, trend-forward pieces that reflect Gabbi’s effortless style—wearable looks that inspire and resonate with the everyday lives of Filipinos.
Alberto is available in over 90 stores nationwide and online at www.alberto.com.ph, as well as on Lazada, Shopee, TikTok, and Zalora.
Cars parked at the Manila airport terminal 2 (New NAIA Infra Corp. photo)
By Manila Bulletin Newsroom
The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) significantly lowered its overnight parking rates for verified passengers and other legitimate airport users, effective Friday, Aug. 1.
In a Facebook post, the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) said the new parking system aims to enable more efficient management of parking facilities while ensuring accessibility for those who genuinely use the airport.
The NNIC noted the new system helps keep parking slots available and convenient for NAIA’s intended users.
To get the discounted rates, verified passengers who park their vehicles at any of the NAIA Terminals—Terminal 1, 2, or 3—must park and keep their ticket. They then need to bring their ticket and boarding pass on their trip and present both at the validation counter upon return. Once verified, passengers will pay only half the standard overnight rate.
This new overnight parking rate for verified passengers is ₱600. While this is still more expensive than the original ₱300 overnight rate, it represents a 50 percent reduction compared to the ₱1,200 rate the NNIC implemented last October.
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By Fr. Roy Cimagala
Chaplain
Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE)
Talamban, Cebu City
Email: roycimagala@gmail.com
AUGUST 4 being a Memorial of St. John Mary Vianney, patron saint of priests, is a good occasion to review who a priest is and how he should be. St. John Mary Vianney (1786-1859), also known as the Cure of Ars, can provide us with a good idea about this since he was well known for his heroic priestly and pastoral work in a parish in France that resulted in a radical spiritual transformation of the community and its surroundings.
To be a priest is actually a profound calling to serve Christ and the Church that necessarily involves a deep relationship with God, a commitment to holiness, and a dedication to lead others to Christ. It is a ministry of sacrifice, love and availability to the people entrusted to his care.
With the sacrament of Holy Orders, the priest shares in the priesthood of Christ himself, that is, Christ as Head of the Church and not just a member of it. This is another proof that God shares his power with us since, in the end, we are meant to be his image and likeness, sharers precisely of his life and nature.
The priest, so ordained, should realize more deeply that he should transform himself into Christ, and to love and suffer as Christ did for everybody, and to see the things of the world through the eyes of Christ. His lifestyle should be that of total self-giving, unafraid of the effort and costs it involves. This, of course, would require a special vocation.
As such, a priest is expected to be a model individual, a living example of faith, love and holiness that should effectively inspire others to follow Christ. He has to see to it that people see and hear Christ through him. He is not just a good orator, an amusing comedian, or a creative artist. Of course, it would be good if he could integrate all these good traits but seeing to it that it is Christ that is seen and heard by the people.
This is, of course, a very overwhelming ideal for a priest to pursue. Thus, a priest should be so deeply rooted in prayer and to spend time with God that he can fairly say he is acting “in persona Christi capitis” (in the person of Christ as head of the Church). He has to realize that his formation—human, doctrinal, spiritual, pastoral, etc.—is a continuing affair, a till-death pursuit.
A priest should have a very deep love for souls, always making himself available to the people, offering guidance, comfort and support. He should give priority to the celebration of the sacraments, especially Confession which is a means of grace and healing. Of course, the daily celebration of the Holy Mass holds the most important duty for him.
If every person is supposed to be “alter Christus” (another Christ) since we are all created in God’s image and likeness which is what Christ is, the priest should be the first one to show it to the world, aware that he is called to be the very instrument of God’s love and grace.
To be a priest should be an all-time affair. Once a priest, he is a priest forever. He cannot say that he is a priest at certain moments of the day only when he celebrates the sacraments, or in certain situations and conditions in life. He is and should be a priest at every breath he makes.
I can speak from personal experience as a half-Filipino, half-white woman, but I have never been to the Philippines myself. Here is what I notice from the first-and even second-generation Filipinos in America in my family or extended family. Maybe not all Filipinos are generally like this, but the ones I have been exposed to are.
Overall, the Filipinos I have encountered seem to like white people a lot. However, as a half-white, half-Filipino, raised by my American born parents in America, they tend to overlook my Filipino side. Even my own family has said that they occasionally forget that I am Filipino, and I am sure that that statement is primarily based on my looks. They have never said the same to my sister, who was raised by the same parents as me, in the same family as me, but only is genetically more Asian than me.
I want so badly to teach my children about Filipino culture, but it will be hard because I haven’t been taught much about it. I have been accepted to be a white person, not a Filipino, so although my fondest childhood memories are immersed in Filipino culture, I have been treated as nothing but white. (Not to say that being fully white is bad. Sometimes I wish I were one or the other.) I just want to be treated as a Filipino-American, because that’s what I feel like I am.
