DOH reports more Covid-19 recoveries than new infections

FOR the second day, the Department of Health (DOH) reported thousands of recoveries from coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) in addition to the record number of time-based recoveries over the weekend.

New Covid-19 cases also fell below 10,000 for the second day as the DOH listed 7,379 new infections in its case bulletin Tuesday, April 20, 2021.

These were lower than the 9,628 reported on Monday and the third below-10,000 case count in the last seven days from April 14 to 20.

Deaths from Covid-19 were also below 100 for the second day on Tuesday, with the DOH confirming 93 mortalities which raised the death toll to 16,141.

The 93 deaths were higher than the 88 deaths on Monday and the third below-100 mortality count in the last seven days. The case fatality rate decreased to 1.69 percent.

The new cases brought the cumulative case count to 953,106.

There were 21,664 recoveries, nearly three times the number of new cases and more than double the 9,266 recoveries reported on Monday .

The DOH has been reporting record numbers of recoveries based on its time-based methodology, which declares as clinically recovered those coronavirus-positive individuals who have not experienced any Covid-19 symptoms for at least 14 consecutive days. However, this used to be done only on Sundays.

On Sunday, April 18, DOH reported a record high of 72,607 recoveries.

The additional recoveries on Tuesday brought down the number of active cases to 127,006, which account for 13.3 percent of the cumulative case count.

These also raised the total recoveries to 809,959, increasing its proportion to 85 percent.

Testing output was still low at 27,040 as of noon of April 19, while the daily positivity rate increased to 17.9 percent.

The daily positivity rate has been lower than 20 percent for nine days from April 12 to 20. (Marites Villamor-Ilano / SunStar Philippines)

Did you click that malicious video link on Facebook?

 

by Art Samaniego, Manila Bulletin

If your answer is yes, then you’re in big trouble. A 2015 malware has recently re-emerged, and this time it is more dangerous. It’s called Facebook “malicious tagging”.

Malicious tagging could gain control of your Facebook account and then send private messages and publish posts with a link tagging your friends on Facebook, people in your Facebook groups, and users who you engaged with on Facebook in the past. The posts and messages could help spread the malware as your friends are more likely to click the link if it’s coming from you. If you see your name being tagged by people you do not know, this means that your friends are safe (for now). The people who tagged you are the people you might have engaged with in the past thru comments or thru Facebook pages.

While this malware is doing its rounds on Facebook, scammers could also use other platforms. So be careful.

How does it work?

First, you would get a notification that you have been tagged in a post. Most of the time, the post would just be a video with a thumbnail that’s not fit for kids to see. Of course, a sexy video would be very tempting to watch especially if it comes from your friend and you would see that many of your friends were also tagged.

Once you click the link, you would be redirected to a page asking you to update your Flash player so that you could watch the video. DO NOT download or update anything. If you do, the malware will then be installed on your device. It would then scan your system for sensitive information that could be used to access your financial accounts. It will also take over your Facebook account by posting a video with a link tagging people in your friend’s list.

What to do?

If you see a Facebook post where you, your friends, and many other users are tagged, do not click the link. Believe me, the only interesting content of that link is the malware that could make your life miserable. Immediately notify the friend who tagged you and tell him to run the latest antivirus software on his device, it is also wise to change the password and activate 2FA immediately. While this malware is doing its rounds on Facebook, other platforms could also share the same malware. I have received an email containing the same link. So be careful.

You can also secure your privacy settings by changing to “only me” who can see posts that you are tagged. If you set it to everyone, other people could see if you’re tagged by the scammers. Also, make sure that you “review tags to your posts before the tags appear on Facebook”. Activate the “Review posts you are tagged in before the posts appear on your profile”, if this is OFF, tags would automatically appear on your wall. If you are annoyed with the notifications informing you that you have been tagged by users you don’t even know, change it to “Friends Only.” All these could be accessed by going to Settings and Privacy then click Settings. Go then to Privacy options and Notifications and change the settings to your preference.

Lastly, always think before you click. Scammers know what’s your weakness and they would use it to trick you.

THE WAY TO HEAVEN

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Driving in big cities is not a joke for beginners. It's an ordeal, especially driving during heavy traffic hours. One must know where to go and which way to take. Otherwise, one'll end up bumping somewhere somehow... .

But, driving a car in a small village, where roads are simple, is for neophytes an enjoyable one. No traffic, or less traffic, no traffic lights, no complicated ways... .

In the same way, railroads can make train drivers ill at ease when they are also in big cities. I remember Munich in my home country Germany, where railways appear like spider's cobwebs. They go in several directions. No wonder, accidents on the roads happened many times.

In life we, too, have roads which lead us to several directions. To go to heaven, man's eternal destiny, one can either choose the shortest road, or one can make detours. Not so many perhaps fall by the way and end up in eternal damnation.

There are some of us, Christians, who take the shourt-cut road to heaven. This is the road of suffering, of the actual practice of Christian virtues, of serving God and our neighbour. Others take the circuitos road of easy life, thinking that at the end they still have time to amend themselves and lead a good life. This is risky, since no one can guarantee that an opportunity will be given at the eleventh hour. Unfortunately, there are still others, who prefer to take that opposite road, which leads to eternal damnation. So they live, so they die! In John Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress", we read, "Then I saw that there was a way to hell, even from the gates of heaven!"

Homo sapiens, quo vadis?

Typical Filipino (IX) - Typisch Philippinisch (IX) : Anting-anting: Amulette und Talismänner

 IX: Amulette und Talismänner

Der Glaube an "anting-anting" reicht in die Vorgeschichte zurück und wurde schon von frühen spanischen Chronisten beschrieben. Er ist auch heute noch weit verbreitet. Christliche Filipinos haben ihr "anting-anting" mit abgewandelten christlichen Symbolen und lateinischen Namen versehen. Anting-antings können ihren Besitzer unbesiegbar oder unsichtbar machen und auch Glück und Wohlstand bringen. Gewöhnlich sind sie geheime Waffen von Kriegern. Von vielen namhaften Banditen hieß es, sie hätten besonders wirksame anting-antings besessen. Und der Biograph von Ex-Präsident Marcos, Hartzell Spence, behauptet, Bischof Aglipay hätte Marcos ein anting-anting in den Rücken operieren lassen.

The belief in "anting-anting" goes back to the prehistory and was already described by early Spanish chroniclers. The belief is still widespread today. Christian Filipinos have given their anting-anting modified Christian symbols and Latin  names. Anting-antings can make their owner invincible or invisible and also bring luck and prosperity. Usually they are the secret weapons of warriors. Many well-known bandits are said to have had particularly effective ones. And the biographer of ex-President Marcos, Hartzell Spence claims, Bishop Aglipay had operated an anting-anting in the back of Marcos. [Believe it or not!]

CALL DDOC MARKS 1ST ANNIVERSARY; SERVES 17,000 PATIENTS IN DAVAO DE ORO AND OTHER PROVINCES

DAVAO DE ORO —Call DdOC, the provincial government of Davao de Oro’s healthcare-made-easy online and tele-consultation program which was implemented by its four Provincial Hospitals recently celebrated its first full year of operation last April 13, 2021. Being one of the first free, PLGU-led online consultation programs in Davao Region,Call DdOCin its first year of operation has served over 17,848 patients both within and outside the region. 

Call DdOC was created to provide the public with accessible, contactless, and costless healthcare services amidst the pandemic. This is done by mobilizing the Outpatient Departments (OPD) of each of the province’s four hospitals in Montevista, Laak, Maragusan and Pantukan,to conduct medical consultations through the Call DdOChelplines and Facebook pages.

During the implemented Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) last year, IATF protocols strictly prohibited people from leaving their homes—be it to get check-ups or restock home supplies unless deemed to be an emergency—due to various health risks brought by the pandemic.But as the people remained unable to visit hospitals for face-to-face check-ups,hospital Outpatient Departments also became handicapped.This is what urged Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy and provincial doctors Ferdinand Anthony Soberano, Jose Martin Briones, Eunice Manansala, Neil Estoya, and Ecargam Lim of the four provincial hospitals to create the provincial government’s own online consultation program.

This healthcare initiative operates under the 1DdO Helpline System which is one of the province’s latest digital innovations that integrates government offices into one portal, making government services available within arm’s reach of the public especially during the pandemic.Both programs were recognized by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) in 2020 and were awarded national Digital Governance Awards (DGA). Ranked first is the 1DdO Helpline which was awarded best in the Government-to-Government category, while Call DdOC placed third in the Government’s COVID-19 Response category.These due recognitions however only empower the provincial government to continue strengthening its efforts to improve healthcare interventions and intensify e-governance in the province of Davao de Oro. // Monique Rosario-Provincial Governor’s Office of Davao de Oro

Typical Filipino (VIII) - Typisch Philippinisch (VIII): "Bayanihan"

 

So heißt die traditionelle Methode der Zusammenarbeit in ländlichen Gebieten bei Tätigkeiten, die die Hilfe vieler Hände verlangen, wie etwa beim Pflanzen und Ernten.

Auch ein Umzug bedeutet, daß das ganze Haus zu einem anderen Standort getragen wird. Alle Verwandten, Freunde und Nachbarn helfen dabei. Bayanihan nennt man diesen Geist gegenseitiger Hilfe und das Symbol für die Fähigkeit der Filipinos, für ein gemeinsames Ziel zusammenzuarbeiten. Ich habe dies in den mehr als 22 Jahren permanentem Lebens mit meiner philippinischen Familie oftmals kennenlernen dürfen.

Bayanihan, this is the name of the traditional method of working together in rural areas for activities that require the help of many hands, such as planting and harvesting.

Moving also means moving the whole house to another location. All relatives, friends, and neighbors help out. Bayanihan is the name given to this spirit of mutual help and the symbol of the Filipinos' ability to work together towards a common goal. I have been able to get to know this many times in the more than 22 years permanently living in the Philippines with my Filipino family.

New commanding officer of 28th IB formally assumes position

Davao de Oro --- The Army’s 28th Infantry KAMAGONG Battalion based in the province of Davao de Oro welcomed LTC Danny D Bustamante INF (GSC) PA as he formally assumes as the newly-installed Commanding Officer on April 12, 2021, at 28th Headquarters situated in Barangay Nueva Visayas, Mawab, Davao de Oro.

In a change of command ceremony MGen Ernesto C Torres Jr PA, Commander of 10th Infantry AGILA Division, lead the handling of the command symbol from outgoing LTC Alexander D Banatao INF (GSC) PA who took post on 12 April 2019 to incoming LTC Danny D Bustamante INF (GSC) PA.

 

Prior to his assumption, LTC Bustamante served as the Battalion Commander of the 10th Civil Military Operation (CMO) and held different vital designations that contributed to the success of the Philippine Army throughout.

 

MGen Torres congratulated LTC Banatao for his accomplishments and commendable service rendered in the past years of successful combat operations, strong multilateral relations, and various efforts in ending local communists armed conflict in the province of Davao Oriental and Davao de Oro.

 

“I want to personally thank the KAMAGONG troopers for their selfless efforts to attain the accomplishments of the unit’s mission and to our partners, the local and national government agencies, civil society organizations, and private stakeholders who have been part of this success,” LTC Banatao said.

 

In his assumption speech, LTC Bustamante expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to lead the unit and vowed commitment to continue the legacy of the outgoing commander. “I commit myself by all means and ensure to work consistently in harmony with the troops and in collaboration with our stakeholders and other agencies to cultivate the value of peace and attain inclusive and sustainable development in the province,” he said.

 

The said ceremony was also witnessed and attended by Governor Jayvee Tyron L. Uy, Brigade General Luis Rex D Bergante PA, Col Jake Thaddeus Obligado (INF) PA, Municipal Mayor of Mawab, Mabini, Maco, and Pantukan, and other officials.

 (Rheafe Hortizano –Provincial Information Office of DdO, Photo Courtesy of Jonie Cadiz)

Typical Filipino (VII) - Typisch Philippinisch (VII): Essen

 Essen ist ungemein wichtig für die Gemütsverfassung eines Filipinos. Es scheint, als sitze ihm die Angst im Nacken, Hunger leiden zu müssen. Wohin es auch geht, wird für ausreichenden Wegproviant gesorgt. Die Unmenge von Freßpäckchen, die unweigerlich jeden Strandausflug begleiten, vermag das unruhige Gefühl in der Magengegend nicht zu besänftigen. Auf dem Weg zum neuen Ziel muß an einigen Obstständen noch für Nachschub gesorgt werden. 

Es gibt kein Treffen von Filipinos, an dem nicht Essen aufgetragen wird. Es gehört zur üblichen Gastfreundschaft, Besuchern nicht nur Getränke, sondern auch Speisen anzubieten. Die übliche philippinische Begrüßung lautet fast immer: "Haben Sie schon gegessen?" ("Kumain ka na ba?") Es gehört sich nicht, vor den Augen eines anderen zu essen, ohne ihm davon anzubieten. Dazu gehört auch die Kaffeepause, die "Merienda". Eßlokale aller Art schiessen wie Pilze aus dem Boden: vornehme Restaurants , philippinische Spezialitätenlokale, Imbißbuden, Straßengrills und Garküchen. Sie, liebe Leser und Leserinnen  haben die Wahl.

Food is extremely important to the state of mind of a Filipino/Filipina. It seems as if the fear always sits in his/her neck that he/she has to go hungry. Wherever you go, enough provisions will be provided. The huge number of parcels that inevitably accompany every trip to the beach is unable to soothe the uneasy feeling in the stomach area. On the way to a new destination, a few fruit stalls have to be replenished.

There is no meeting of Filipinos where food is not served. It is part of the usual hospitality to visitors not only drinks but also offer foods. The usual Filipino greeting is almost always: "Have you eaten already?" It is not proper to eat in front of another without offering it to him/her. This also includes the coffee break, the "merienda".  Eateries of all kinds are springing up as upscale restaurants, Filipino specialities restaurants,  and local street food stalls. You, my dear readers have the choice.

WITH BEETHOVEN UNDER PALMS (XI): Dancing in Germany

CHAPTER XI: Dancing in Germany

My story of a German-Filipino mixed marriage life in Germany began. A life especially with elements of dance and music. The Broadway Dancing and Music Show at the Theater des Westens in Berlin was an unforgettable experience for Rossana. Sure, for me too. I love classical music. I love Jazz. Until now. 

The same evening we got home, she looked at me and asked, "Can you imagine that we will start a Filipino Cultural Dance Group here in Berlin? Just like my Manisan Dance Group in the Philippines?" I saw her shining eyes... .

"Sure, I will try and support your plan and idea", I replied. But before that, I would like to introduce more classical music. 'The Merry Wifes of Windsor' followed. An opera by  German composer Otto Nicolai. Rossana got a headache. Beethoven followed. She smiled... .

The weeks passed. I really got very busy in the office. Overtime at home. "If I could help you finish the layout and proof-reading", Rossana asked me. "You have to be able to master the German language very well", I replied. "Where can I learn German?" Rossana asked me. The German Cultural Center, the Goethe Institut had its office in Berlin near our residence. Rossana enrolled as soon as possible and finished her studies with the C2- exam (the highest language level for applying for German citizenship) after 1 1/2 years. 

During this period, she started several jobs as a babysitter in a family of a French soldier. During that time too, West-Berlin was divided in the three western sectors British, French and United States. Later, she would work in the Stars and Stripes Bookstore at the American Airbase at the Military Airport Berlin-Tempelhof. No entry even for me!

In the meantime, Rossana and I were able to set up the "New Manisan Dance Group Berlin". Several performances followed. Several talk shows too. I was very proud that the Berlin Theater Club arranged a performance for us as talk members at the Berlin Intercontinental Hotel.  The Annual International Tourism Fair Berlin allowed Rossana and our dance ensemble to perform as Philippine representatives.

And another aspect helped Rossana delete her loneliness. The Philippine Community Berlin and its chaplain, the legendary Father Gene, Professor Dr. Hermogenes Bacareza, author of the book "German-Philippine Relations", my major mentor in future. In the next few years, he "opened all doors for me", especially for journalistic work in the Philippines, while we were still living in the Philippines. My first column was published in "Tinig ng Bayan" (Voice of the Nation), a global mission-oriented publication based in Abra. Father Gene would visit us already in 2000 and blessed our house and lot in Davao City.

Our honeymoon took us to Switzerland. And then: a big visit from the Philippines had been announced. Vice President Laurel and family. Huge excitement in the Philippine community Berlin.

(To be continued!)

Why do so many relationships break down?

Since the pandemic hit us, many people have changed. From depression until aggression and indifference. Actually  "Relationship" comes from the Latin "referre" or "relatum", which means "to bring back". Some might say: That's of no importance to me. That doesn't worry me at all. There is even no need to worry about it. Yes, sometimes, we wish people around us weren't so thoughtless.

In one of my penultimate columns I tried to explain, "when to keep our mouth shut"! Silence is also an answer - sure! But some of my readers posed the question, if also broken relationships can be only restored by silence or waiting. My answer is YES and/or NO!

Sometimes it's a wonder, what a small dose of determined silence can do. Relationships are ALWAYS worth restoring, because life is all about learning how to love and how to value relationships and make the effort to maintain them instead of discarding them whenever there is a rift, a hurt, or a conflict. The bible told us that all of us have been given the ministry of restoring broken relationships.

Broken or cooled down relationships can be noticed at any corner. Restoring them is equal to peacemaking or peacekeeping but also not avoiding facing conflicts. Running away from a problem (and then keeping the mouth shut!), pretending that the problem doesn't exist or being too afraid to talk about it, that's how the hypocritical coward acts.  Some people love to downplay everything: Things aren't too bad - they could be worse! 

I always love to talk to God before I talk to a person. Later, I can find the right moment and take the initiative to restore broken relationships or face the problem. I can even look out for others' interests first. I can use "my telescope of life" (from the Greek word "skopos") and play close attention. I can start with sympathy but not with great solutions right away. I can confess my part of a possible conflict.

Paul said in Romans 12:18: "Do everything possible on your part to live in peace with everybody!" In resolving conflicts, a word not to be spoken may be the choicest word of all, or IF WE TALK, HOW we say it, is important.

The US-author Rick Warren confessed in one of his books; "We can establish a relationship even when we are unable to resolve our differences. Christians often have legitimate, honest disagreements and differing opinions. But, we can disagree without being disagreeable. The same diamond looks different from different angles. God expects unity, not uniformity, and, we can walk arm-in-arm without seeing eye-to-eye on every issue!"