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!
Get ready for a dazzling April spectacle as meteor showers and a brilliant comet take center stage in the night sky.
Photo from Unsplash
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) in its astronomical diary released on Monday, April 1 said meteor showers and a comet will be observed this month.
PAGASA said Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks will be the “brightest” when it appears on April 21.
“It will reach its brightest point and pass perihelion on April 21 while being in the Taurus constellation, with an estimated visual magnitude of 4.6,” PAGASA said.
While the comet will be bright, a binocular with a 40- to 50-millimeter aperture or a small telescope may be used for the comet to be visible.
PAGASA also said it may eventually vanish from sight in the sunset glow due to its proximity to the Sun.
Meanwhile, the Lyrid meteor shower will be observed in the night sky from April 14 to 30 and will reach its peak on April 22. It will be visible once the constellation Hercules, the point in the sky from which the meteor shower appears to originate, rises at around 9:15 p.m. each night and remains active until about 5:13 a.m. the following day,” said PAGASA.
It noted that the best time to watch the shower is “shortly before dawn,” as up to 18 meteors per hour can be seen.
Meanwhile, the π-Puppids will be active from April 15 to 28 and will reach its peak on April 23.
“This meteor shower can be observed after sunset until the shower’s radiant sinks towards the horizon at around 10:11 p.m. The shower is expected to peak at around 8 p.m., so the best display might be seen before the radiant sets on 23 April,” PAGASA said.
A magnitude 5.0 earthquake jolted Surigao del Sur at 5:16 a.m. on Monday, April 1, said the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).
Phivolcs
Phivolcs traced the earthquake’s epicenter 24 kilometers (km) northeast of Lingig, Surigao del Sur
The tremor, which occurred at a depth of 28 km, was tectonic or caused by the movement of an active fault near the area.
Phivolcs said the tremor was “strong” at Intensity V in Lingig and Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, while it was “moderately strong” at Intensity IV in City of Bislig, Surigao del Sur.
It was “weak” at Intensity III in Boston, Davao Oriental.
Phivolcs’ instruments also recorded the quake at Intensity III (weak) in City of Bislig, Surigao del Sur and in Nabunturan, Davao de Oro, and Intensity I (scarcely perceptible) in City of Tandag, Surigao del Sur.
It said that while the quake may have caused property damage, aftershocks may not occur.
“I am too fat or skinny to...” “I am too old or young to...” “I am too inexperienced to...” “I am too shy to...” “I am too busy to...” “I am too broke to...”
These self-limiting statements can be endless, but it’s essential to challenge and overcome them. These thoughts often reflect self-limiting beliefs that can be challenged to encourage personal growth and positive change.
These thoughts can hold us back from realizing our full potential. When we tell ourselves that we’re “too fat” or “too skinny,” we’re allowing negative perceptions of our bodies to dictate our capabilities. Similarly, thinking we’re “too old” or “too young” can hinder us from pursuing new experiences and learning opportunities. It’s crucial to recognize that age should not be a barrier to trying new things or embracing personal development.
Feeling “too inexperienced” might discourage us from taking on challenges. Every journey, however, starts with a first step, and every expert was once a beginner. Embracing a learning mindset can open doors to growth and skill development. Additionally, being “too shy” can limit our social interactions and hinder potential connections.
Building confidence gradually through small steps and positive affirmations can help break free from the constraints of shyness. The excuse of being “too busy” is a common roadblock to pursuing passions and hobbies. While life can be hectic, finding moments for things we love contributes to a more fulfilling existence. Lastly, the belief that being “too broke” restricts us from certain opportunities should be met with resourcefulness. Creative solutions and budgeting can often lead to unexpected possibilities, proving that financial limitations don’t have to define our potential.
In essence, challenging these self-limiting thoughts involves cultivating a mindset of self-empowerment and resilience. Embracing the journey of personal growth requires acknowledging these barriers and actively working to overcome them, fostering a positive and proactive approach to life.
You are not “too” old for your dreams, “too” stupid to learn new things, “too” awkward to be around, “too” hard to love, “too” broken to mend, “too” behind in life, doomed to be alone, a failure, or a letdown. Keep these in mind.
We occasionally let the outside world or our own inner critic force these false tales upon us.
The influence of the outside world and our inner critic can create a powerful narrative that doesn’t always align with our true potential. Society, especially social media, often imposes standards and expectations that might not resonate with our individuality. It’s crucial to recognize that societal norms are not one-size-fits-all, and embracing our unique qualities often leads to a more authentic and fulfilling life. By resisting external pressures and choosing self-acceptance, we break free from the constraints of societal expectations. We can pursue paths that align with our genuine selves.
Our inner critic, that nagging voice within, can be a formidable opponent. It tends to highlight our flaws and amplify our self-doubt. Understanding that this internal dialogue is not an accurate reflection of our capabilities is crucial. Challenging negative self-talk and replacing it with positive affirmations empowers us to rewrite our own story. Cultivating self-compassion allows us to acknowledge our imperfections without letting them define our self-worth.
It’s important to foster a mindset that recognizes setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than confirmation of inadequacy. When we let external judgments and our inner critic dictate our worth, we risk undermining our potential and limiting our possibilities. Embracing a mindset that values resilience and self-improvement enables us to navigate challenges with a sense of optimism. By dismantling the false tales imposed by the outside world and our inner critic, we pave the way for a more authentic, empowered, and fulfilling life.
You are never “too” good or bad to take on a worthwhile endeavor. Don’t confine yourself to certain viewpoints. You usually underestimate your strength, ability, and intelligence. That inner voice that makes you doubt your value? Give it your acknowledgement, but don’t ever listen to it. Acquire the skill to quiet it and substitute it with an uplifting voice that declares, “I can’t do this... yet” or “I’m not good at this... yet.”
You are a process, a sole traveler on a magnificent voyage of self-discovery, development, and advancement. Accept each step, acknowledge your accomplishments, and practice self-compassion when facing difficulties. You have the ability to write and re-write your own story for as many times as you need to. So write your Life Story with resiliency, self-acceptance, and the knowledge that you are, in fact, a formidable opponent.
Embrace the journey of perpetual evolution. Your potential knows no bounds. Never limit yourself. Instead, thrive in the perpetual cycle of transforming, adjusting, gaining knowledge, and expanding. The adventure is yours to shape, and the horizon is limitless.
You are a wonderful work in progress, shaped and molded in the likeness and image of our Creator—ever-evolving, ever-becoming, ever-adapting, ever-learning, and ever-growing. Do not let anyone tell you otherwise.
Elite action returns to the world-class Nuvali Sand Courts in the City of Santa Rosa as the PhilippineNational Volleyball Federation (PNVF) hosts the Smart Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Beach Tour Nuvali Open starting this Thursday, April 4, until Sunday.
Elite action returns to the world-class Nuvali Sand Courts in the City of Santa Rosa as the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) hosts the Smart Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Beach Tour Nuvali Open starting this Thursday, April 4, until Sunday.
Gen Eslapor in action in last December’s Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Challenge also in Nuvali. (PNVF)
A total of 46 squads , including four from Team Philippines and also from Australia and New Zealand, will compete in the four-day event, one of six international tournaments that the PNVF is organizing this year ahead of the historic solo hosting of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2025.
“The Philippines has become destination for both regional [Asia and Southeast Asia] and international volleyball competitions and we are proud of that distinction, especially because we are world championship host for the first time next year,” PNVF president Ramon “Tats” Suzara said.
Tickets to the Smart AVC Beach Tour Nuvali Open also primarily supported by PLDT and the City of Santa Rosa are now available at www.ticketmax.ph, where beach volleyball fans can also avail themselves of the P220 day pass.
The PNVF and Nuvali Sand Courts by Ayala Land are hosting a second major international tournament since the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Challenge last December—with the Ayala venue also hosting the Philippine National Games and Batang Pinoy also last December besides being the official home of the national beach volleyball teams as well as a preferred training venue for Japan’s national squads.
After the AVC Beach Pro Tour backed by Foton, Akari, Mikasa, Senoh, Seda, Asics, Cignal, One Sports, One Sports+ and Pilipinas Live, the PNVF and Nuvali will host the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour-Futures from April 11 to 14.
The Philippine team under Brazilian coach Joao Luciano Kiodai and Mayi Molit-Prochina will have the women's pairs of Gen Eslapor and Kly Orillaneda, and Alexa Polidario and Jenny Gaviola in the main's draw. The tandems of James Buytrago and Rancel Varga, and Ranran Abdilla and AJ Pareja will also represent the country in the men's main draw.
Three teams from Australia, Japan and Thailand, two pairs from Hong Kong, Singapore, Kazahkstan and New Zealand, as well as women's squads from Indonesia, Macau and Malaysia have confirmed their participation.
In the men's division, Australia, Japan and Thailand have entered three teams, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Iran and New Zealand each had two, while China, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore and Macau are also in the mix.
Tops on the PNVF’s international calendar this year is the return of the Volleyball Nations League Men’s Week 3 from June 18 to 23.
Also on the PNVF calendar are the 5th AVC Challenge Cup for Women in May, 4th Southeast Asia V League Week 2 in July and the Volleyball World Pro Tour Challenge also in Nuvali in November.
When asked who she looks forward to working with, AC confidently named Kathryn Bernardo, Sarah Geronimo, and Jodi Sta. Maria, without hesitation.
AC Bonifacio
AC Bonifacio, whose domain is the dance floor, even hailed as the "New Gen Dance Princess," is now expanding her horizons with ventures into acting.
“I’m just moving through that process, through that journey of learning and doing more. And whatever else I could do, I will continue to do so.” AC said, talking about her ongoing acting journey.
She joined the industry as a dancer, winning the "Dance Kids" competition in 2016. She has also already ventured into the music industry, with “4 Myself” and “Free Fall Into Love” as some of the tracks.
She first dipped her toes into acting in 2017, playing Mika in Wansapanataym. She then appeared as Cadence in the series Lyric and Beat and made her iconic cameo appearance in an episode of the international show Riverdale.
Now, her acting endeavors are flourishing more than ever. She appeared as ‘Ashley’ in the movie, “Shake Rattle and Roll Extreme,” with Jane Oineza, RK Bagatsing, and Iza Calzado as some of her castmates. Her performance in this movie earned her a nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the VP Choice Awards 2024.
Moreover, AC has now ventured into theater, starring in the interactive musical comedy, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee," under The Sandbox Collective, portraying the character of Marcy Park. “Iba ang discipline ng theater po talaga. When you’re on stage, start na po agad ‘yun until the end of the show.” AC shared her insights about her theater experience.
Asked to share the transitions from dancing and singing to acting, AC acknowledged that her journey wasn’t entirely easy. “With dance, I can release how I feel through movement, and that’s what I am good at. I’m really bad at my words. Siguro, that’s when I had a hard time connecting my feelings with my words and releasing them for people to feel.” Yet, like the true seasoned performer, her acting endeavors have consistently garnered praise and success despite her initial doubts.
"I’m very open to doing what comes for me, and I will do my best, my 100 percent for whatever role that is,” she said, expressing her sincere interest in pursuing acting.
When asked who she looks forward to working with, AC confidently named Kathryn Bernardo, Sarah Geronimo, and Jodi Sta. Maria, without hesitation.
“I’m still trying to figure myself out, trying to figure out where I am and how I’m going to deal with my life.” At 21 years old, fresh out of teenage years, and on the brink of adulthood, AC faces much to figure out. But amid it all, her talent shines through. Whether dancing, singing, or acting, she excels in every pursuit.
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!
Heat indices in 13 areas reached the “danger” level on Friday, March 29, according to the monitoring of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
Actors reenact the poignant journey of Jesus to his crucifixion in Cebu City on Good Friday, March 29, 2024. (Juan Carlo de Vela)
The highest heat index of 47°C was recorded in Aparri, Cagayan as of 5 p.m.
Dangerous heat indices were also recorded by PAGASA at Puerto Princesa City, Palawan (45°C); Tuguegarao City, Cagayan (44°C); Ninoy Aquino International Airport station in Pasay City (43°C); Dagupan City, Pangasinan (43°C); Alabat, Quezon (43°C); Roxas City, Capiz (43°C); Dumangas, Iloilo (43°C); Iba, Zambales (42°C); Calapan, Oriental Mindoro (42°C); San Jose, Occidental Mindoro (42°C); Mambusao, Capiz (42°C); and Catarman, Northern Samar (42°C).
Heat index is defined by PAGASA as the gauge of perceived heat, accounting for both the actual air temperature and relative humidity.
PAGASA noted that heat indices ranging from 43°C to 51°C are considered to be within the "dangerous" range.
In these heat indices, PAGASA noted that heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely. “Heat stroke is probable with continued exposure,” it added.
At the screening of her advocacy film "Miss Probinsyana" at the Metropolitan Theater on March6, Rhian believes that giving women the same opportunities as others is a big deal for her.
Rhian Ramos (Facebook)
Kapuso actress Rhian Ramos portrays a strong representation of capable women in modern society.
At the screening of her advocacy film "Miss Probinsyana" at the Metropolitan Theater on March 6, Rhian believes that giving women the same opportunities as others is a big deal for her.
"I feel that women need to fight for each other, create ways for each other. I feel that whenever you are in a position of power to help another person you should do it. I believe if I'm gonna rise, I wanna take everyone with me. If I achieve anything in this world, I want all of us to shine," Rhian said.
Inspired by the true story of Marjorie Aviso, who is also the producer of the film, "Miss Probinsyana" follows the story of Marge (Rhian) who embarks on a transformative path to create change in her province.
Set against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving digital landscape, the film explores Marge’s pursuit of empowering her fellow Filipinos through the world of information and communication technology.
According to Marjorie, choosing Rhian to portray her role in the film was her personal choice.
"She took it to the next level. Iyong portrayal niya sa role, she embraced it. I was lucky to be watching the first few scenes and I was like, ‘OMG, this is me. Rhian exemplifies me very much. I think it’s very important. Iyong portrayal niya ng character that brings life and brings a lot of importance to the reality of the film," Marjorie said.
(She took it to the next level. Her portrayal of the role, she embraced it. I was lucky to be watching the first few scenes and I was like, 'OMG, this is me. Rhian exemplifies me very much. I think it's very important. Her portrayal of a character that brings life and brings a lot of importance to the reality of the film)
Rhian Ramos (left) and Marjorie Aviso (Facebook)
Rhian said preparing for the role was challenging for her since the film tackles the corporate world.
"There's a lot of professional speak that I'm not used to, professional terms in companies I'm not used to in saying or hearing of. I also educated myself a little on mental health. This also touches not only on the challenges of the professional world but also psychologically for people," she also said.
She added that prior to making the film, she wasn't aware that people from the province don't have the same opportunities in work and education.
"Before doing this movie, there were so many untold stories na hindi rin ako aware kung gaano ka-limited ang options outside of the main cities like Manila, Cebu, or Davao. Hindi ako aware na para bang ito lang ang options mo for the future. It's also like you're not free to dream. I hope a lot of women watch this and fear not the freedom of whatever they dream of," Rhian added.
(Before doing this movie, there were so many untold stories that I wasn't even aware of how limited the options outside of the main cities like Manila, Cebu, or Davao were. I'm not aware that these are your only options for the future. It's also like you're not free to dream. I hope a lot of women watch this and fear not the freedom of whatever they dream of)
Rhian Ramos in Miss Probinsyana
Rhian also mentioned that portraying one's character makes her empowered as a woman.
"When I'm acting, it takes me to another place. I know when I'm in the zone and I know if I'm not. And when you get those magic moments, it really feels amazing and that's basically what I'm doing my whole life. When I get good feedbacks also from people in what do, I feel most empowered, too," Rhian said.
"Miss Probinsyana" is directed by Jenny Pearl Bautista-Ninalga, written by Eligio Ninalga Jr. and JP Ninalga and produced by Impact Media Convergence, Inc.
