Bombing

There was a bus bombing yesterday in Makati that killed at least 5 people according to reports.  This is in reminiscence of the previous administration where bombings seems rampant all over the country.

Anyway, my story isn't about the terrorists attack or whatsoever. What happened early this morning was a bit off. It ticked me a bit, good thing that I held my tongue before it could say a word.

I was bringing a plastic bag filled with some of my personal stuff, decors and gifts that I have accumulated at the office for years.  I took an FX in going home.  There were only 2 passengers - one was sitted on the front seat who was a mid-40's looking guy and myself sitted at their back.

Wearing my shades and caring nothing in the world, I placed my plastic bag at the side.

Then this other passenger started talking to the driver.  He was talking about the bombing yesterday; and even warned the driver to be on a look-out for passengers carrying packages.  And how dare he!  He even glanced at my innocent plastic bag.

Anyway, as not to ruin my morning, I decided to listen to the music in my old, rustic N70 phone as not to hear any of the conversation.

60 kph rule in QC

Finally!

You'll surely agree that a lot of motorists here in our country drive like they own the streets; as if they never care of the traffic regulations.  They create their own rules!

However with the new regulation implemented in Quezon City, setting 60kph as the speed limit along Commonwealth Avenue, aggressive motorists should get tamed. As per news, if they get caught by the camera, their vehicles will be flagged by the LTO, and they couldn't renew their registrations or driver's license.

I hope that they are really serious in implementing this regulation, not even government officials should be exempted. And I hope this would also be implemented in other areas in the metro.

Read article: 

http://www.gmanews.tv/story/211333/motorists-warned-vs-defying-60-kph-rule-along-killer-highway

MRT Accidents

Is there a reason to be paranoid? If you typically take an MRT (Metro Rail Transit ) ride everyday, there is a reason to.  I am not scaring you, but accidents like what had been reported all over the media this week is just so hard to ignore.

Last Tuesday, it was reported that the downward escalator at the MRT Ayala Station suddenly stopped. 10 people were said to be hurt and 2 were serious according to the GMA News.

And on Thursday, the brakes of a train got stuck near the Santolan Station. As reported in Manila Times, smoke was seen in front of the train that caused a commotion. The passengers rushed to get outside. Seven passengers were reported to be injured.

The train has to be replaced but due to budget constraint, that won't be possible. Unless the MRT would push through with their fare hike then they could probably come up with a budget.

I just hope the changes has to made quickly. If something needs repair, maintenance or replacement, I hope it is going to happen soon. We are talking about lives here.

photo from GMA News TV 

Suggested readings: http://www.gmanews.tv/story/211071/mrt-muling-nagkaaberya-kalumaan-ng-gamit-sinisi-ng-opisyal

New taxi rate in Metro Manila

The new taxi rates are expected to be implemented today. From P30, the minimum fare is now P40 and the additional charge for every 300-meter distance jumps from P2.50 to P3.50.

So this would mean that if I am used to paying P65 from my place going to work, I would approximately add P15-20 should I decide to take a cab.

The new hike order covers Metro Manila and Cebu City.

Taxi drivers and operators however, need to install calibrated meter that issue receipts. Failure to do so, passengers can refuse to pay the new fare.

I heard it would cost like P4,000 for the calibration. With that, I doubt if taxis would b able to install it immediately. It will probably take a month or 2 to have get it done.

For sure, this would impact on how things are.  Salaried employee like me would most likely consider taking a jeepney or FX instead unless, there would be a salary hike too.

Diet mode

I can't believe I'm doing this, but I am doing it. For now, at least. I am eating oats and veggies for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Have a quick snack on fruits and yogurt.  And munch on nuts when I feel like it. I also have biscuits that go handy at work. So, what the heck is going on? Well, the doctor's finding was enough. I have gained more pounds for the past year. Binge eating due to stress and my frustrations in life have lead me to this!  Who wouldn't love chocolate when you are broken-hearted?  An icecream when you get frustrated with work?  It is just so easy to eat and swallow those delicious and comforting food that makes your problems vanish for a moment. It is just so enticing!

But, right now, I have to make a decision whether to go on eating like there is no tomorrow or do something with my excess pounds. I have chosen the latter. So help me God.