As the Christmas season is getting near, a lot of people especially in Metro Manila are now preparing to buy something for their relatives as a gift during Christmas day. December is the month where malls and tiangges are encountering high volume of customers for the preparation of the holiday season. This is the only time of the year where relatives and family clans are having bonding and reunions.
Taxis in Philippines
Actually, my above statement is just my introductory of personal experience staying in the Philippines. The hospitality and generosity of Filipino people are extremely exceptional, I have a lot of Filipino friends whose working in a BPO industry which where I am working also, I have been working in the Philippines for almost 3 years and its quite amazing working with them.
The main purpose of my blog is to express how I feel with Philippine taxi drivers who are unscrupulous and taking advantage with the passengers/commuters mostly in Metro Manila. They don't even think that they are giving the Philippines a bad impression in the perception of the foreigners due to those exploitation of taxi drivers. The purpose of this blog is to notify the public especially the Philippine Government to have a greater punishment and higher penalty for Philippine taxi drivers who will be reported for being:
- Rude, Discourteous, Abusive and Arrogant to Passengers
- Refusing to Transport the Passenger
- Having Fast Taxi Meter
- Overcharging the Commuter to their Fare.
- Reckless Driver
- Maniac Driver
- Refusal to grant the 10 pesos discount of the commuters.
- Opportunist to passengers
Those mentioned grumbles above are the usual complains of an ordinary commuter most of the time. I can say that I normally experience them all daily. I've tried to file a complain by filling out this form of Land Transportation Franchising & Regulatory Board (LTFRB), http://ltfrb.gov.ph/main/getinvolved#sthash.5q5DWP6y.dpbs but unfortunately nothing happens, they haven't respond to my concern or even notifying me a receipt of message.
Here is my story, Last Friday, it was December 2, 2016, I had several scenarios of refusal and contracting going to my destination.
Philippines Taxi Meter
I was at the back of SM North EDSA looking for a taxi to ride going ti Ayala, Makati. I called the attention of the first taxi near me and it stopped in front of me, I talked to the driver in tagalog and I said "Manong, pwede po bang sa Ayala, Makati sa PBcom tower?" (can you drop me off to Ayala, Makati in PBcom)? the taxi driver replied, "Malayo yun, tapos ma-traffic pa, kung gusto mo isasakay kita pero Php 700, lugi kasi ako sa gas eh" (It's far and it's already traffic, if you want I can pick you up but you are going to pay me 700 pesos, it's a big consumption to my gasoline).
And then I replied "telling, Sir, it's too much expensive my normal taxi rate from here to Makati ranges from 280 to 350 pesos only. The taxi driver response, "Eh kung ayaw mo maghanap ka na lang ng taxi na iba, ang dami mong satsat" (if you don't want, look for other taxi, you have a lot saying) that's my first taxi scenario.
I looked for another taxi, it was peak hours during that time it was 5:30 pm and it took 10 minutes to find a vacant taxi, I called the attention of the second taxi driver, it stopped in front of me, I tell the driver to drop me off on Ayala, Makati near Pbcom. The driver agreed to convey me going to Makati. I thought it was all good along the way, when we were in EDSA Cubao, The driver keep saying that "Grabe, Ang traffic. Ma'am, kung gusto bayaran mo na lang ako ng Php 500, hindi na ako mag-memetro kung ayaw nyo baba na lang kayo dito sa Cubao. (It so traffic, Ma'am if you want you could pay me Php 500, I won't operate my taxi meter but if you don't want, you can now drop here in Cubao).
During that time, I was totally pissed-off and I don't know what to react my temper went high. To avoid any argumentation or any conflicts with the driver, I just agreed on his condition to pay him 500 pesos to drop me on Ayala Makati.
Private Taxi
It was an horrible experience specially for a foreign woman like me, this is not my country, I don't know where to run through or seek for help. I was traumatized of what happened and I told to myself that I would ride any Philippine Taxi anymore. I lost my confidence and trust with them now I would prefer to ride their transport competitor which is UBER even though it will take more minutes to arrived but still it safe and more reliable that the usual cab/taxi in the Philippines.
If in the future I would encounter same scenario again, I will post the plate number, taxi name, name of the driver and probably will take a photo of the driver and post it here in my blog. I am hoping that the LTFRB and the Philippine Government will have an immediate action to these kind of experiences we encountered with taxi drivers.
Here are the sample videos being caught and captured by the victims:
Oral hygiene is very important, but it needs emphasis once in a while because it seems that people forget the necessity for it. Moreover, vices such as drinking and smoking not only affect you liver and lungs. Did you know that it could also affect your mouth? Some of the causes oral cancer include alcohol and tobacco use.
Dysphagia
There is nothing wrong with being cautious and wanting to get screened for oral cancer. After all, it is a disease that will cause discomfort and cost a lot in treatment once it gets worse. Are you worried that you or someone you know might have oral cancer?
Oral Cancer
If you have a suspicious growth or a sore that would not go away, then that could be oral cancer. It is the fractious multiplication of cells that infect and damage surrounding tissues.
In the case of not being able to detect it and so being unable to diagnose and treat it in its early stages, this could be life threatening. Mortality rate of oral cancer is higher than that of thyroid cancer, cervical cancer, and laryngeal cancer, to name a few.
The Symptoms
•Having difficulties in swallowing (Dysphagia) and in moving the jaw or tongue. The jaw may also swell and cause dentures to fit poorly.
•Considered as the most common sign of oral cancer, watch out for constant pain in the mouth. In addition, be wary of mouth sores and white or red patches along the lining of the mouth, on the tongue, gums, and tonsils.
•Dramatic weight loss – caused by the little to no intake of food because of the unbearable pain in the mouth.
The Causes
Excessive alcohol intake links back to oral cancer; around 70% of those diagnosed with oral cancer drink in excessive amounts. Heavy drinkers, along with those who smoke and chew or snuff tobacco products are prone to getting oral cancer.
While vices heavily contribute to this, the cancer could also be hereditary.
HPV, while linked to cervical cancer, is a risk factor for both oral and oropharyngeal cancers.
The People at Risk
Oral and oropharyngeal cancers are more prevalent in men rather than women. However, it is now becoming prevalent in women, too, due to more women succumbing to excessive smoking and drinking. As for age, 62 is the average age of diagnosis, while two-thirds of people living with oral cancer are ages 55 and above.
If you have a sore that keeps bothering you because it would not go away, have it checked. Who’s to say that oral cancer only affect those aged 55 and above. Remember that it could happen to anyone.
Successful restaurants engage all the
senses of customers. Options in restaurants, like drinks in the bar, seats and
menu, give the consumers the excitement of discovery and comfort. But the
design of every nook and crannies of the building, appeals to the people to
make them want to stay.
Psychology plays a big part in a restaurant
strategy. Every detail from cuisine to ambience would make the customer choose
the establishment. But, the restaurant actually chose them. The bar, the desk,
tables and everything else that the customer see and feel, are meticulously
designed for their age, status and preferences.
The design has to work with the customers. It
needs to facilitate people to locate things logically without the need to use
signs.
Lights
Lighting
is a vital design of a building. The lights should hit the walls, tables
and the floor. Dim lighting makes the textures of the restaurant pops out. It
should be properly positioned to give the customer the right shadows capturing
their good features; this encourages them to stay longer.
Sounds
Carpets with underlay and double filling
can absorb sound. If the place is where customers can talk more, they can stay
longer. Making them want to eat and drink more.
Traffic
The space should make the vibe of the
restaurant flow smoothly. The design needs to make the people come in quickly
and served quickly. The space given for customer and staff flow depends on the
different customer base. A large space is for large families and a smaller one for
fewer patrons.
We understand there are many challenges and
consideration in designing or renovating the space for restaurants. Our
professional service can improve and remodel the space for the absolute
ambience for the business establishment.
Here in Titus Contracting, we provide
commercial design build and remodeling with a wide range for renovation and
design. We make sure all our services are time efficient, to lessen downtime
and to prevent the construction affect client’s business activity.
Many homeowners that choose hardwood flooring swear by it, and
say that they refuse to use anything else. Houses with hardwood floors also
tend to sell faster, and for a higher price. But why is this the case? Does
having wooden floors really make that much of a difference?
While people have different wants and priorities, these
seven benefits of hardwood are usually what homeowners find most
attractive.
1. Easy to clean – You’ll quickly learn to appreciate just
how much hardwood floors cut your home cleaning time. Just a little sweeping
and dust mopping is enough to keep them looking great. Any spots and stains are
also relatively easy to remove.
2.Long life span – When it comes to long term value, there
is no better choice than hardwood
flooring. Florida homes that have wood floors look well maintained and
luxurious for many decades after construction.
3. No allergy risks – Wood floors don’t irritate allergies, as
there are no easy places for particles like dust and dander to cling to. This
is very helpful if someone in your family has asthma or strong allergic
reactions.
4. Refinishing – Apart from the durability and easy
maintenance of hardwood floors, you can
always refinish them to bring back their original luster. This is an
affordable and quick process that will make your floors looking brand new, and
can be repeated multiple times.
5. Timeless appeal – Hardwood is always in style, and fits
with almost any home décor. For many centuries, it has been the top choice for
people all over the world. It’s reassuring to know that regardless of your
interior design tastes or recent trends, you will never have to worry about
your floors looking outdated.
6. Eco-friendly – As wood is a completely natural and
sustainable material, you help protect the environment by choosing it. Just
make sure to choose a well-known supplier and make sure
that they get their wood from sustainable sources.
7. Flexibility – If you find it difficult to choose between
the benefits of hardwood and carpeting, you should always go for hardwood. You
can always just add a rug over your floor later if you change your mind.
These seven factors give hardwood a major edge over other
flooring materials, and make it well worth the initial cost. Keep these in mind
when you’re remodeling, or building a new home.
Why are there never enough data points? Why is the network so slow? Why doesn’t it just work?
The answer lies in data cabling. A well-laid network helps ensure you and your business never face such issues. A poor network, or one where corners have been cut, will impact your data speeds and thus your business efficiency for years to come.
Here are a few things to consider when dealing with twisted pair cabling:
● Twisted pair cabling cannot be run directly alongside electric cabling. The magnetic field generated by the low voltage running through the cable is essentially to its operation. A nearby electric cable will disrupt that, ruining communications. If you have to cross electric cables, cross them in perpendicular.
● Devices can also produce electrical ‘noise’, as cables do. Plan your data cable route away from hazards like motors or other such devices. Think about the future: data use tends to only go up. Plan for capacity you don’t need now, but may do one day soon.
● Know the law. Most areas have standards for low voltage cabling, most of which are designed to ensure your safety. Non-compliance will ultimately just result in an expensive re-installation further down the line. For Western Australian standards, your best start might be to consult a Perth electrician or professional in your area.
● Test your cabling infrastructure, and keep testing it at regular intervals. This ensures that it meets your standards and stays that way.
● Be mindful of distance limitations with twisted core wire. Obviously this is not a problem with fibre optic. However the 100 m rule is a very real consideration with other types of wire.
Many of the same points hold true for fibre-optic cable as well: although not a fragile medium itself, care and forethought are required when installing it. Fibre-optic cable is different from copper wires, and should never be kinked. It requires careful support and should be secured in all installations.
Considering Getting in a Specialist?
These days, many electricians combine their in-depth knowledge of electrical systems and planning with a specialism in data cabling.
A professional will guarantee your system is well-planned, suitable for your own requirements, up-to-date and in line with all legal standards. For data cabling in Perth, be sure to hire an experienced electrician to assist.
For most of my time in a year I spend my time working in our office doing such things that make me stress and exhausted. Time passed by and and everything has changed in the way of living, it's a super fast paced we should cope with. The way of living in metro is super hectic and difficulty, competition is always there and nothing to do about it.
Last week, we had vacation break due Holy Week. Most of the employed and working people took advantage of this season to travel have their vacation, relax or rest and for others to reflect for Jesus Christ sacrifice die in the cross to save the world from sins.
During on a 4 days break, I tried something that I never experienced before and that is to go to Anawangin, Zambales. It's very popular to my colleagues and friends they usually promote it as a great camping destination. I asked them why? Most of them told me that it's a lone area surrounded by mountains and invulnerable to drive through by land. The only way for you to get there is to across the sea of Brgy: Pundaquit, Zambales.
Before going to Anawangin, Zambales Here Most Important Things You Should Bring:
Flash Light - The area has no electricity supply this is your equipment at night.
Rope - After you swim, you need to hang your wet clothes.
Canned food (de lata) - there a sari sari store the but the price is so expensive, in order for you cost-less for food just bring your own food.
Uling (charcoal) - for food cooking, grilling seafoods or meat Tent - This is the most special among them all, you need to bring or rent this thing for you to have transcient.
Knife - serve as can opener, a cutter for firewood that you are going to use for cooking and bonfire at night.
Drinking Water - a 5 liters water in Anawangin costs 200Php so if I were you please bring you own drinking water.
Butane Gas Stove - if you don't like to bring charcoal and you more convenient in using gas stove it is much better.
I hope the listed things above gives you an informational detail for you to get ready going to Anawangin. Mean while, below are the steps on how to get in Anawangin Zamables.
Here are the steps on how to get in Anawangin Island:
If you are from Manila to Zambales:
There are 3 victory bus liners in Manila, one in Cubao Quezon City, Sampaloc Manila and teh alst one is in Caloocan. You can choose any of the bus terminals if where it is convenient to you.
Ride a bus with a signage of Iba, Zamabales it will direct transport you to San Anotnio, Zambales. (ask the driver to drop you off in San Antonio, Zambales Bayan), from there you can ride a tricycle going to Brgy: Pundaquit. (I guess it is a 40 pesos ride only for a single person, some of the drivers there are taking advantage to their passengers once they know that you are a tourist so be wise once you are getting there) once you get in Brgy: Pundaquit it's just a 10 minutes away walking in shore and take a boat ride from Pundaquit going to Anawangin.
It's a 30-40 minutes boat ride from Pundaquit to Anawangin. To summarize the travel it's approximately 4-5 hours travel time.
What are the things I can do in Anawangin?
Swimming - You can feel the warm water of the beach, sea shell finding and others.
Capones Island
Island hopping - from Anawangin to Capones Island (Grand Capon or Capon Grande Island) and from Capones Island to Camara Island. One of the greatest scenery of the Capones Island is there LightHouse.
Photography - take liberty to have selfie with friends and relatives. The scenery of the nature is amazing.
Trekking - In Anawangin, there is a hillside named Mt. Pundaquit.
Cove Exploration - you may also try to get in Nagsasa Cove, Talisayin Cove and Silangen Cove.
This is the last reminder I am going to advise you. There is no signal in Anawangin. You cannot assess your phone or even internet browsing, once you get there the only thing you can do are the activities.
